FEBRUARY 2021

EMBRACING CHANGE: EXTENDING MISSION IN THE DIGITAL AGE

JAMES EDSON SIX STRATEGIES BUFORD MEMBERS “ACTS OF PEACE” WHITE: A “NO OF THRIVING HELP THE HAND REACHES NEW LIMIT” MAN CHURCHES ME DOWN ZOO NEIGHBORS vantagepoint

The Dignity of Humanity: A Basis for Reconnecting

But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us,” Ephesians 2:13, 14. Christ recognized no distinction of nationality or rank or creed. The scribes and Pharisees desired to make a local and national benefit of the gifts of Heaven and to exclude the rest of God’s family in the world. But, Christ came to break down every wall of partition. He came to show that His gift of mercy and love is as unconfined as the air, the light, or the showers of rain that re- fresh the Earth. The life of Christ established a religion in which there is no caste, a religion by which Jew and Gentile, free and bond, are linked in a common brother- hood, equal before God. No question of policy influenced His movements. He Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D. made no difference between neighbors and strangers, friends and enemies. President of the Southern That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the waters of life. Union Conference He passed by no human being as worthless, but sought to apply the heal- ing remedy to every soul. In whatever company He found Himself, He present- ed a lesson appropriate to the time and the circumstances. Every neglect or insult shown by men to their fellow men only made Him more conscious of their need of His divine-human sympathy. He sought to inspire with hope the roughest and most unpromising, setting before them the assurance that they might become blameless and harmless, attaining such a character as would make them manifest as children of God. Often, He met those who had drifted under Satan’s control and who had no power to break from his snare. To such a one, discouraged, sick, tempted, or fallen, Jesus would speak words of tenderest pity, words that were needed and could be understood. Others He met who were fighting a hand-to-hand battle with the adversary of souls. These He encouraged to persevere, assur- ing them that they would win, for angels of God were on their side and would give them the victory. At the table of publicans, He sat as an honored Guest, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts, His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and to these outcasts of society there opened the possibility of a new life. Though He was a Jew, “Jesus mingled freely with the Samaritans .... And while He drew their hearts to Him by the tie of sympathy, His divine grace brought to them the salvation which the Jews rejected,” The Ministry of Heal- ing, pp. 25, 26. May we not slack in hastening the Good News to every human being we encounter during these challenging days of the beginning of 2021. Let’s pursue the backslider with the encouraging message that God will heal our nation, communities, churches, homes, and individual lives. Let’s assure them that in the midst of whatever may have caused him/her to drift away from God, they have dignity. This dignity and worth of humanity are endorsed by the love of God through Jesus Christ. –RCS

2 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 contents

Volume 115, No. 2, February 2021 The Southern Tidings is the official publication of february 2021 the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. features

SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE 302 Research Drive Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092 Mail Address P.O. Box 923868 4 Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30010-3868 Telephone 770-408-1800 EMBRACING CHANGE: www.southernunion.com EXTENDING MISSION IN THE DIGITAL AGE

EDITOR R. Steven Norman III MANAGING EDITOR Irisene Douce CIRCULATION Yaime Cordova 8 ADVERTISING Nathan Zinner JAMES EDSON WHITE: LAYOUT O’livia Woodard A “NO LIMIT” MAN PRODUCTION College Press

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS 12 SIX STRATEGIES OF THRIVING ADVENTHEALTH Ingrid Hernandez CHURCHES ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY Lisa Marie Esser CAROLINA 14 Rebecca Carpenter SNACK, SLEEP, REPEAT? FLORIDA Gladys Neigel REVERSING UNHEALTHY HABITS GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND IN A PANDEMIC Tamara Wolcott Watson GULF STATES Shane Hochstetler 15 KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE 4 Denise Pope BUFORD MEMBERS HELP THE OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY HAND ME DOWN ZOO Cheri Wilson SOUTH ATLANTIC James Lamb, Ed.D. SOUTH CENTRAL 16 Anthony Chornes II “ACTS OF PEACE” REACHES NEW SOUTHEASTERN Noel Grant NEIGHBORS SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY Janell Hullquist 17 CONFERENCE/ SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS 8 12 INSTITUTION DIRECTORY

CAROLINA (704) 596-3200 P.O. Box 44270, Charlotte, NC 28215 FLORIDA (407) 644-5000 18 351 S. State Road 434, Altamonte Springs, FL MICHAEL K. AGYEI OWUSU, D.MIN., 32714-3824 GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND (706) 629-7951 ASSUMES PRESIDENCY P.O. Box 12000, Calhoun, GA 30703-7001 GULF STATES (334) 272-7493 P.O. Box 240249, Montgomery, AL 36117 KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE (615) 859-1391 P.O. Box 1088, Goodlettsville, TN 37070-1088 SOUTH ATLANTIC (404) 792-0535 P.O. Box 1688, Decatur, GA 30031-1688 SOUTH CENTRAL (615) 226-6500 P.O. Box 24936, Nashville, TN 37202 news SOUTHEASTERN (352) 735-3142 P.O. Box 1016, Mt. Dora, FL 32756-0056 19 ADVENTHEALTH 14 15 ADVENTHEALTH (407) 357-2083 900 Hope Way, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 20 CAROLINA ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY (800) 500-7747 22 FLORIDA 671 Winyah Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 24 GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY (256) 726-7000 7000 Adventist Blvd., Huntsville, AL 35896 26 GULF STATES SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY 28 KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE (800) SOUTHERN 30 SOUTH ATLANTIC P.O. Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370 31 SOUTH CENTRAL 32 SOUTHERN ADVENTIST SOUTHERN TIDINGS | Volume 115 UNIVERSITY Number 2 | February 2021 Published monthly by the Southern Union. Free to all members. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to 34 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Southern Tidings 38 EVENTS CALENDAR/ P.O. Box 923868 ANNOUNCEMENTS/SUNSET Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30010-3868 EMAIL: [email protected] SCHEDULE 16

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 3 coverfeature Embracing Change: EXTENDING MISSION IN THE DIGITAL AGE

BY LISA MARIE ESSER

dventHealth University AHU — active, innovative, interprofes- (AHU) students prepare for sional, missional — has served our stu- “Faith is not simply careers in health, science, ac- dents especially well throughout 2020,” an extra thing Aademia, and leadership. Early Hernández said. “AHU’s AIIM education in 2020, faculty leaders in Orlando and equips learners for the realities of modern Denver quickly innovated teaching for health care, which encompasses scientific we do; it is the online platforms and adapted to new and academic research; lifelong learning rules imposed by the COVID-19 pan- in classroom, lab, and clinical settings; foundation upon demic. Support teams ensured that labs, and top-quality care that connects phys- simulation clinics, and digital technolo- ical, mental, emotional, and spiritual which we build an gies were up to the challenge, and during well-being.” the worst health crisis in 100 years, their This triad of research, education, and ethic of wonder, enrollment increased. health care is a “time-honored tradition On the heels of 2020, AHU is poised in academic medical centers and in the curiosity, and for a new era of innovation and strategic Adventist faith tradition worldwide,” ac- growth. “The people of AHU are all he- cording to Hernández. At AdventHealth compassion.” roes in my book,” said Edwin Hernández, and AHU, the health system’s national Carla G. Park, Ph.D. Ph.D., AHU president. “Our amazing university, the triad may also hold the faculty kept our virtual doors open, em- formula for future insight and innova- braced new technologies, counseled stu- tion in whole-person care, the promise of dents through fear and uncertainty, inno- AdventHealth as advanced by Adventists vated safe clinical education, and ensured 150 years ago. the research, training, and curricula to that a fresh crop of graduates were ready “AHU is a foundational institution in better prepare professionals to provide to enter the workforce on time, with ex- AdventHealth’s journey to become a dy- whole-person care. cellent skills, uncommon compassion, namic learning community. As we look and an intense desire to serve.” boldly toward the future of health care, A Community that Connects, Since its inception, the University has our aspiration is to build AHU into a na- Supports, and Equips been guided by biblical principles in- tional asset that will train a significant At AHU, a story is often retold about formed by its Seventh-day Adventist her- portion of our clinical workforce in the the difference between U.S. and Aus- itage, an honored and essential compo- delivery of whole-person care – body, tralian farmers’ approach to livestock in nent of the University’s mission, vision, mind and spirit, ” said Terry Shaw, presi- their care. U.S. farmers build fences to and values. AHU extends the healing dent and CEO for AdventHealth. “When contain livestock, defining boundaries ministry of Christ by transforming stu- we treat people, we want to treat them of ownership. In Australia, where farms dents through the power of faith-based from a whole-person perspective.” (called stations) are much larger and fenc- education. With this shared commitment, both ing costs prohibitive, farmers contain “The unique AIIM learning model at institutions are positioned to develop animals by digging a well. The water,

4 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 AdventHealth University Orlando’s campus is situated directly next to AdventHealth Orlando (building in background) so the students will have a uniquely close access to the site.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 5 coverfeature

essential to survival, keeps livestock vol- and understanding in this amazing world personal wholeness, skill building, research untarily close and within safe boundaries. we share,” Hernández said. “Alongside endeavors, and strategic vision. “Faith is AHU culture reflects the well as a the brilliant minds at AdventHealth, AHU not simply an extra thing we do; it is the metaphor for its Christo-centric world- scholars, and academic research partners foundation upon which we build an ethic of view: “And I, when I am lifted up from are embarking on a journey to uncover the wonder, curiosity, and compassion,” Park the earth, will draw all people to myself,” still-unsolved mysteries of faith and heal- said. “We encourage personal wholeness, John 12:32. By welcoming students of all ing, prayer and wellness, spiritual practice, in ourselves and in our students.” backgrounds and beliefs, all three AHU and human flourishing.” In addition to advancing this research campuses — Orlando, Denver, Online This research agenda could chart new agenda, AHU is deeply committed to — are safe places where all can choose pathways in the education of whole-per- ensuring equitable access to education, to strengthen their relationship with son care professionals. Whole-person opportunity, and purpose-driven careers. God. That “well” — one’s personal rela- care, Hernández said, extends to the en- Hernández cited projected workforce tionship with God — draws students to tire health care operation, including the shortages in health care, particularly in AHU, keeps them close, and then sends discovery of new treatments, cures, and nursing and primary-care physicians, as them into the world fortified with deep preventative vaccines, and the essential a potential crisis that must be prevented, and abiding faith. education of current and future health beginning in 2021. Savanah Watson, an AHU Denver stu- care professionals. Key to preventing future gaps in the health care workforce, according to Hernández, is expanding the education net to include more people with the po- tential, sense of purpose, and passion required for demanding health care, re- search, and academic professions. To continue to support students, ad- dress impending workforce needs, and meet growing student demand, AHU has introduced new clinical degree tracks, an evening nursing program in Orlando, and a new master of science degree in spiritu- al care. But for many students, the chal- lenge of funding their education persists. AdventHealth and AHU are exploring new avenues to make school more afford- able for all students, particularly those with high potential and financial need. Edwin I. Hernández, Ph.D., president of AdventHealth University, speaks with a Geographic scholarship funds, innova- group of students prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. tive employment/education models, and employer-sponsored tuition are all under dent, testified that her time at AHU was “Once in a century is humanity faced investigation. the driving force behind her decision to with a global health crisis,” Hernández Another key to preventing a health care be baptized into the Adventist faith in No- said, “one that calls on us to expand our workforce crisis: online education. Since vember 2020. “At AHU, I felt welcomed, knowledge of science and medicine. I be- 2001, AHU has been an early adopter, lead- seen, heard, and loved,” said Watson. “I lieve we are called as believers to rise to er, and innovator in online learning. AHU’s became part of a community that was the challenge before us and to fulfill our e-learning includes its 100% virtual option, unlike anything I had ever experienced. God-given purpose to extend Christ’s AHU Online, which offers seven degrees, My professors believed in me, and they healing ministry.” including four master’s programs. helped me build my relationship with Carla G. Park, Ph.D., executive director “With online access, all students who God and my confidence. My life will nev- of faith community strategy at Advent- feel called to health care have access to er be the same.” Health and AHU assistant to the president AHU’s mission-focused education, no “My vision for AHU is grounded in for mission, frames whole-person care as matter the physical distance,” said Deena collaborative and integrative research, the the foundation of teaching and learning at Slockett, Ed.D., chief operations officer source of new human knowledge, insight, AHU, including theological understanding, for AHU Online.

6 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 coverfeature

University leaders stress that online on AHU’s chaplain rounding projects for care and great customer service in the learning is not only consistent with tra- graduate students give more students health care marketplace,” said Lim. If the ditional Christian learning, it can some- access to this invaluable, spiritual expe- pilot groups are successful, they could times provide a safer space for students rience in a virtual learning environment. serve as a foundation for an expansion of to explore their faith. “The importance Now going into year two of the study, the program in the future. of our work in health care requires con- Lim reported receiving positive feedback Because of its core mission and aspira- necting students to our mission,” said already. One nursing student said that af- tional vision to transform the science and Slockett. “AHU provides virtual forums, ter experiencing the immersive chaplain practice of whole-person care, AHU is community worship services, and prayer rounding, she “finally understood the dif- committed to strengthening efforts to in- gatherings to support spiritual growth in ference between sympathy and empathy.” novate in e-learning and other education addition to professional growth.” Another breakthrough came with an technology. AHU leaders embrace and Additionally, support services are com- invitation to meet with Apple executives explore all new initiatives with the in- pletely online, delivered by chaplains, in Cupertino to explore a partnership pi- tent to improve health care teaching and coaches, and counselors whose concern loting iPad Pros as a learning tool. Key learning, expand scientific and academic for students encompasses their academic, professionals from AdventHealth and inquiry, and develop influential leaders mental, emotional, spiritual, physical and AHU traveled to California to learn how of uncommon compassion who will ad- financial well-being. Counseling, tutoring, writing support, academic guidance, and coaching are created to provide a high-qual- ity, personalized, and mission-centric focus to AHU’s online communities.

Transforming the Science and Practice of Whole-Person Care As education and technology continue to evolve, AHU puts innovation at the fore- front of its vision. On that front, the team behind AHU’s Immersive Technologies Lab (ITL) is critical to AHU’s growth. Fo- cused on virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and 360-degree video proj- ects, the ITL team initially created deliv- erables for the University to supplement in-person education and explore solutions to unique challenges in health care. Brandon Baker, director of AdventHealth University’s Immersive Technologies Founded by Dan Lim, Ph.D., vice pres- Lab, demonstrates the VR COVID-19 planning project developed in partnership ident of educational technology and inno- with Full Sail University. vation, the ITL has exploded with growth in recent years. Projects range from equip- online learning, research, assignments, vance the healing ministry of Christ. ment training to a recent award-winning labs, and assessments could be integrated “We’re not afraid of the future; we are project designed to help hospitals plan re- on one device able to deliver AR content. embracing this moment of change as a source allocation and distribution amid the With the support of nursing faculty lead- brilliant opportunity,” said Hernández. pandemic. Developed in partnership with ers and a generous, private donor who ex- “The future of health care and education Full Sail University, the project leveraged pressed enthusiasm about the innovative demands a culture of learning, a hunger one of many new relationships AHU has project, Lim’s team is preparing to launch for excellence, and innovative leaders developed in this space. the pilot with nursing programs in Orlan- fearlessly committed to serving God’s A whole-person care research proj- do and Denver. healing mission.” ect currently underway in partnership “If the entire student learning experi- with ITL is using advanced learning ence is seamlessly executed on a single technologies to train key components of mobile device and confirmed by data, it Lisa Marie Esser is the communication whole-person care, including empathy could change the way we prepare health manager at AdventHealth University in and compassion. Video simulations based care professionals for seamless patient Orlando, Florida.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 7 southernunionfeature

James Edson White: A “NO LIMIT” MAN

BY R. STEVEN NORMAN III

ne of the pioneers who had a 123, 1893, par. 19. She understood the great impact in the development undertow to represent Satan’s efforts to 1849 — James Edson Oof the Southern Union territory destroy him, and appealed to him to ac- White is born July 28 to was James Edson White. In eight short cept Christ as his Saviour. She sealed the James and Ellen. but challenging years, 1895-1903, he letter and mailed it with a prayer. made a footprint on the work that is evi- A few weeks after receiving his moth- 1870 — Marries Emma dent 125 years later. er’s letter, Edson responded, “I have sur- MacDearmon on July 28. James Edson White, born July 28, rendered fully and completely, and never 1849, in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, was enjoyed life before as I am enjoying it 1873 — Moves to California the second son of James and Ellen White. now. I have for years been under a strain, to help his father with the He married Emma MacDearmon of with so much to accomplish, and it stood Signs of the Times. Wright, Michigan, on his 21st birthday, right in my way. Now I have left it all with July 28, 1870. During his early profes- my Savior, and the burden does not bear 1878 — Publishes Song sional life, he was a writer, printer, and me down any longer. I have no desire for Anchor, the first Sabbath publisher of numerous song books, and the amusements and pleasures that made School song book of the worked with the General Sabbath School up the sum of my enjoyments before, but denomination. Association for seven years, 1880-1887. have an enjoyment in the meetings with

the people of God such as I never had be- 1893 — Has religious awak- The Making of a “No Limit” Man fore,” LT, August 10, 1893. ening after reading letter Edson was a man “subject to like pas- Soon after Edson’s religious awaken- from his mother. sions as we are,” but God gave Edson ing, he met Dr. J. E. Caldwell, of Knox- extraordinary success despite his human ville, Tennessee, who told Edson about 1893 — Reads “Our Duty frailties, the racial conditions of the South, an appeal entitled, “Our Duty to the to the Colored People.” and the organizational challenges he faced. Colored People,” that his mother made Decides to work in Missis- It all began with a religious awak- to the General Conference leaders on sippi. ening. On May 18, 1893, Edson White March 21,1891. Interested to know more, wrote to his mother, “I have no religious Edson found a copy and read it. Con- 1895 — Morning Star ar- inclinations now in the least ...” Later victed, he decided to go work among the rives at Centennial Lake in the same paragraph, he wrote, “I am African-American people in Mississippi. in Vicksburg on January not a Christian yet.” When his mother God had uniquely qualified Edson to 10, and opens Vicksburg received his letter in Wellington, New accomplish the great work that lay before School. Zealand, she was deeply troubled. She him in the South. He learned the printing responded with a 10-page letter. In her trade as a youth. He was a prolific writer 1898 — Forms Southern letter, she recounted how she saw Ed- and publisher, loved boats, and possessed Missionary Society. son drowning in an undertow. “When I a vast vision and deep commitment to was observing your peril, I cannot ex- evangelize Blacks in the South. 1900 — Moves to Nashville press the feelings I passed through. It God led him to a few supportive part- and opens Nashville Col- seemed that my soul would dissolve. I ners. He had a wonderful wife in Em- ored Sanitarium and Her- have not recovered from the impressions ma. He also had a committed friend in ald Publishing Company. made on my mind as I cried to you, ‘The William O. Palmer. He shared his plans undertow! The undertow!’” 8LtMs, Lt with them and, together with a few oth-

8 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 southernunionfeature

1912 — Moves to Marshall, Michigan.

1916 — Emma dies. Moves to Battle Creek.

1928 — James Edson White dies on May 30, in Otsego, Michigan. He was 76.

“ There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God.”

The Desire of Ages, p. 250 ART BY: ADRIA WARE BY: ART

ers, they began to make preparations to more than 150 students were crowded in ers were N. B. King, pastor, and Thomas go south to Mississippi. attendance at night school. Murphy, pastor, and his wife, who joined He hired Captain A. T. Orton to Because that location was prone to the Church hoping to find a better life- build the hull of a steamboat he called flooding, a new church and school build- style; and J. D. Grimes, a colporteur. The Morning Star. When the boat was ing, designed by W. K. Loughborough, completed in July 1894, Edson, Emma, was built at 209 Fayette Street to provide Yazoo City Will Palmer, and company made the a more favorable location for the grow- Edson purchased two lots in Yazoo 1,500-mile journey from Michigan to ing school. Next to the new church, a City and another one in Lintonia, a sub- Vicksburg, Mississippi. mission house and a janitor’s home were urb of Yazoo City at the time. A Sunday- built. On March 16-17, 1901, Ellen White school was opened in a private home in In Vicksburg preached for the dedication services for Lintonia. The school quickly outgrew On January 10, 1895, they steamed the Vicksburg Church. this home, and in 1898, a “movable chap- onto Centennial Lake in Vicksburg. He Some of the teachers who taught at the el” was built on the lot in Lintonia. Fred leased a lot near the river on the corner Vicksburg School were Edson and Emma Rogers and his wife came from the West of Walnut Street and First East, and built White, Fred Halladay, Anna Agee, and Coast to teach at the school in Lintonia. a school at a cost of $150. By winter Anna Jensen. Some of the Black work- They began the day school in Decem-

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 9 southernunionfeature

ber 1898 with 15 students, and within months had 200 students in attendance. An addition was added to the back of the school and three teachers were hired. In 1900, Franklin G. Warnick moved to Ya- zoo City to become the first Black prin- cipal of the school which already had two black and one white teacher who had served under Fred Rogers’ supervi- sion. This was necessary because it had become dangerous for Rogers and other whites to work among Blacks after the Supreme Court affirmed “Separate but Equal” in Plessy vs. Ferguson in 1896. Emma MacDearmon White Warnick Nash Rodgers

The Southern Missionary Society the Society also controlled 28 mission has been made an effort in this cause for The work of Edson and his cadre of schools with an enrollment of nearly the colored people that accomplished as workers needed to be legally organized, 1,000 pupils. much as that work has done for them.” so he formed the Southern Missionary Edson’s report provided other details. Society (SMS) to serve as an umbrella The 1903 General Conference He reported five schools “located at for his varied and far-flung ministries. Session Vicksburg, Yazoo City, Columbus, and The mission of the SMS was “to carry At the 1903 General Conference Ses- Jackson.” Regarding churches and compa- the principles of Christian education to sion in Oakland, California, three re- nies, he reported, “A few months ago the the people of the South,” Gospel Herald, ports were presented concerning the president of the Mississippi Conference December 1899, p. 105. work done by Edson and his team. united with Brother Rogers in organizing Yazoo City was the headquarters of George I. Butler, president of the a colored church at Vicksburg, and one at the Southern Missionary Society until Southern Union, reported that in Missis- Yazoo City. There are also companies at Edson moved to Nashville, Tennessee. sippi “there are nearly as many colored Calmar, Columbus, and Jackson. Our la- Some of the projects and organizations believers as white. The treasurer’s report borers have also carried forward efforts in owned by the SMS were the Dixie at the last camp-meeting showed that the Nashville, Memphis, and Edgefield Junc- Health Food Company, the Herald Pub- colored people, poor day laborers, had tion in Tennessee, and in Louisville and lishing Company, and the Nashville Col- paid about half of all tithe that came into Bowling Green in Kentucky.” The con- ored Sanitarium (1901-1903), which was the treasury,” GCB 1903, p.131. He went gregations in Nashville, Edgefield Junc- later replaced by the Rock City Sanitar- on to say, “I believe that the Southern tion, Louisville, and Bowling Green were ium in 1906. The SMS became a branch Missionary Society has done a great deal organized and or pastored by Charles M. of the Southern Union in 1901. The Oc- of good. I will say it fearlessly before Kinney and Alonzo Barry. Edson contin- tober 1908 Gospel Herald reported that this whole Conference that there never ued, “Five ordained ministers have been

Students and teachers stand in front of the Vicksburg School and Chapel built in 1901 at 209 Fayette Street.

10 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 southernunionfeature

developed in the work of the Southern Missionary Society. All these ministers EDSON’S man. He made me feel so special.” are now doing efficient ministerial work John Champion Salfore in the South.” Other workers included LEGACY Nipmach, a faithful deacon in the two public speakers, 13 school teachers, Temple Gate Church in Selma, re- Bible workers, and medical missionary CONTINUES called that Edson encouraged him workers. “The superintendent and matron to attend the Oakwood School. [Fred and Fannie Young] of the Nashville One hundred and twenty-five Lula Johnson attended the Colored Sanitarium were brought from years have passed since Edson school in Natchez, but remem- private home life in the North. Two nurs- White steamed into Vicksburg. bered Edson White calling her a es are in training, and others are soon ex- The work that he accomplished “diamond in the rough.” She was pected to begin a course of study in this and the descendants of people a faithful member of the Natchez department. One young man is being ed- he won continue to hold aloft the Triumphant Church. ucated by the society as a physician, at the light of the Morning Star that il- Retha Weathington Davis’ Meharry Medical College of Nashville, lumined the South. grandson, James Humphreys, was and another is being assisted in his course One school, the E. E. Rogers a pastor and later chaplain at Oak- at the same school. Both are intelligent, School, which started out as wood University before his death. well-educated young men. One will grad- the Jackson School with Joseph Her great-grandson, Austin uate in 18 months, and the other one year H. Laurence as its first teacher, Humphreys (James’ son), is a later,” GCB 1903, p. 200. is still operating. Churches that South Atlantic Conference pas- His mother, Ellen White, gave the final were started by Edson’s work in tor. Her granddaughter, Elaine report. She commented, “By the work of Mississippi include the Morn- Humphreys Norman, was a the steamer ‘Morning Star’ much has ing Star Church in Vicksburg, teacher and employee of the been accomplished that otherwise could Lintonia Chapel in Yazoo City, South Central Conference. not have been done. Thus, the workers Brookhaven, and Columbus. The key to making an indelible have been enabled to reach places that There were students at the imprint on time and eternity is to otherwise they could not have reached. school whose progeny continue commit one’s life to building the The boat served as a home for them, and to serve the church. Kingdom of God by saving souls. as a place to which to invite those inter- Etta Little-John, from Vicks- Edson’s ministry touched lives ested in the truth,” GCB 1903, p. 202. burg, was one of the first 16 stu- that became a multigenerational dents at Oakwood. She was the blessing that lasts even to today. Edson’s Final Years mother of Charles E. Bradford, Edson and Emma continued to work retired president of the North in the South until 1912 when they were in American Division. Her grand- their 60s and Emma’s health began to fail. daughter, Sharon Lewis, is a re- They moved to Marshall, Michigan, and tired Adventist educator. remained there until Emma passed July 29, Cynthia Gertrude Johnson, 1917. Edson moved to Battle Creek. He lat- a student at the Yazoo City er married Rebecca Burrill, and spent his School, was the mother of the final years operating a stereopticon busi- late Garland Millet, former pres- ness with his wife in Otsego, Michigan. He ident of Oakwood College. Her died May 30, 1928, and was buried in Battle granddaughters are Carol Byars and Debbe Millet of Huntsville. Creek in the Oakhill Cemetery. Adria Ware has been commissioned to The writer had the privilege of create the art used for each history fea- Visit SouthernTidings.com for addition- knowing and interviewing several ture during 2021. A talented freelance al multimedia content related to Edson students and converts of Edson’s artist and photographer, she received ministry. In 1992 Madeline her fine arts education at Oakwood White’s ministry. College (now Oakwood University) Edwards, widow of a Vicksburg and Mississippi State University. Adria physician and former student from has two daughters, Crystal and Annah R. Steven Norman III is the com- the Morning Star School, fondly Ware, and is passionate about her rela- munication director and Southern remembered Edson playfully teas- tionship with Christ. We failed to give Tidings editor at the Southern her a credit line for Elbert and Ellen Union Conference. ing her. She said, “He was a nice Lane’s portrait in the January issue.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 11 southernunionfeature

Six Strategies of THRIVING CHURCHES

BY KEN ROGERS

ost of us have heard the grim statistics that, across all denom- Minations, church congregations are growing old. Many members, and especially younger generations, are fall- ing away from both the Church and their personal faith. This trend, if it continues, certainly seems to indicate that many of our churches will die and be shuttered if we simply continue to operate as we always have. Researchers from The Full- er Youth Institute conducted thorough research with more than 250 churches to not just record what is wrong with today’s churches, but to discover what churches are doing to engage congre- gants in vibrant life, and provide energy into the whole church experience. The research indicated that churches that were thriving shared the following six core commitments or strategies: Christ. The eight attitudes ought also to ronym for Service And Love Together. 1. Unlock keychain leadership. be marks that identify a church congre- The faith and can-do attitude that this 2. Empathize with today’s young people. gation that is growing in the ways of the group of Seventh-day Adventist young 3. Take Jesus’ message seriously. Lord. Each attitude has a corresponding adults exhibit is inspiring! They do not 4. Fuel a warm community. promise connected to it. Jesus also em- believe that evangelism is dead; rather, 5. Prioritize young people and fami- phasizes that with the correct attitude, evangelism just might look different lies everywhere. one can grow to be the “salt of the earth,” than we might traditionally think. 6. Be the best neighbors. a “light of the world”, a “city set on a hill The leaders of SALT have embraced These six commitments are not nec- that cannot be hidden.” When we are will- a philosophy of authentic Christianity, essarily novel or revolutionary. We have ing to be salt and light to the world around as well as a concrete resolution to be been introduced to the concepts pre- us, we cultivate in others an appetite to “Jesus” to those they serve. The impor- viously, but when these strategies are know God. This is no doubt the Good tance of building relationships here and intentionally adopted, churches are em- News of the Gospel — to cause people to now dictates the ministry opportunities powered with renewed mission and spir- want to know the Lord and Savior Jesus they engage in. Service And Love To- itual revival which generates a growing, Christ who died for their sins and lives to gether is not just a slogan, it is the foun- young congregation. provide eternal life for each one. dation for ministry. Matthew 5 records the memorable During the past couple of years, it has As SALT continues to model relation- words of Jesus in what is known as the been exciting to witness the application al ministry to the homeless of Orlando, Beatitudes. The BE-ATTITUDES, as it of the BE-ATTITUDES in a young adult Florida, the ministry has not gone unno- were, are actually eight character traits ministry outreach serving in the greater ticed. Recently the city government of that identify an authentic disciple of Jesus Orlando, Florida, area. SALT is the ac- Orlando has provided hundreds of thou-

12 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 southernunionfeature

ship referenced the homeless people as FRIENDS, a distinction that has not wa- vered. The ministry volunteers provide a listening ear to their friends at each event; they pray with their friends and they become personally involved with their situations. From its humble beginnings SALT today is an incredible outreach minis- try in the city of Orlando. Today, SALT operates four days a week with a hot meal service in partnership with other ministry outreach providers. SALT has acquired a shower trailer and provides hot water showers for their friends. Each Sunday in downtown Orlando at the Community Outreach Center, homeless sands of dollars directly to SALT to con- tinue its ministry to the homeless situa- tion. The government leaders recognize that SALT can effectively provide ser- vices that the city has needed for a long while. SALT operates as a voluntary, not-for-profit status and is dependent on donations and volunteers. Donations come from many varied sources, and volunteers from varied denominational churches, local colleges and universities, as well as civic businesses, are providing needed assistance. It is truly a light set on a hill in the city of Orlando, that God is abundantly blessing. There is much to be encouraged by as we witness the dedicated strategy that In the early days of the group’s forma- friends can receive a warm meal, a new these young adults provide as members tion, the young adults were cognizant of change of clothing, a haircut, a warm of the Adventist Church. It is obvious that the growing homeless population in the shower, assistance with a potential job the six identified core commitments are city of Orlando. As the group leaders met application, and a concerned conversa- being celebrated in a practical and direct together and prayed together for God’s tion about their well being. lifestyle approach. What could you do to direct leading and providence, they de- One innovative local Adventist Church embrace and bring about culture change cided that they could do something. One created a mobile stage platform by cutting in your local church community? Per- of the first needs that was evident was a large hole in the side of a truck trailer and haps not to the extent that SALT is doing, the need to feed hungry homeless peo- engineered a drop-down stage to provide but change can happen by choosing just ple. The team enlisted volunteers from for musicians and a preaching platform. one or two strategies to start with. The their friends and local church members, The volunteers are discovering that when BE-ATTITUDES will work for you and resulting in volunteers providing sack their homeless friends are fed up, cleaned your church in ways that one cannot even lunches and conversations one day a up, cut up, and dressed up, they are more imagine. It’s time for us to trust God and week to downtown Orlando locations. ready to be filled up with spiritual truth. His provisions as we journey together to As other needs became apparent, cloth- stop our churches from growing old and ing which was donated or provided by Ken Rogers is the youth director irrelevant. Let’s resolve to make Jesus local businesses was distributed. at the Southern Union Conference. better known and loved! From the beginning, SALT leader-

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 13 adventhealthfeature Snack, Sleep, Repeat? REVERSING UNHEALTHY HABITS IN A PANDEMIC

BY INGRID HERNANDEZ

fter months of varying levels of “Maybe not being vegan or vegetarian, coronavirus restrictions, where but putting more plant and natural foods Apeople have been “locked down” on our plate. The closer we eat to the with more snacks and stress and less ground, the better.” sleep and activity than ever before, “gain- In terms of exercise, Polycarpe has ing the COVID-19 pounds,” is a pretty taken this time to enjoy workout DVDs common joke. But, is it possible to lose at home, and safe, socially distant family – not gain – weight in a pandemic? bike rides around the neighborhood. It was for Yamiley Polycarpe, an R.N. “I want people to know COVID is very at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs. poorly transmitted outside. So, people Polycarpe, who suffered from high blood really would do well to get outside and pressure, started her wellness journey in get some sunshine in their eyes. Sun- March 2020, at the very start of quarantine shine increases serotonin,” said George in much of the U.S. She lost 50 pounds. Guthrie, M.D., M.P.H., board-certified “I said, ‘I don’t care what’s going on, At the height of the pandemic, when family physician in the AdventHealth I’m going to make sure I’m eating right,’” many people were eating unhealthy Medical Group. Serotonin is the key foods and getting little exercise, Yam- recalled Polycarpe. “I just said what I was iley Polycarpe made the decision to hormone that stabilizes mood and feel- going to do, and I just went with it.” improve her lifestyle. ings of happiness. Throughout the pandemic, states and Polycarpe is already experiencing ma- countries around the world have is- tionist, exercise specialist, endocrinolo- ny benefits. Her blood pressure has gone sued stay-at-home orders to combat the gist, and behavioral health specialist. down significantly, and weight and inch- spread of COVID-19. A study published “Before starting the program, I was es have been “falling off.” in the Obesity Society research journal eating whatever I wanted whenever I “My clothes fit better, I smile more,” reported on the habits developed during wanted,” Polycarpe said. “I wasn’t exer- she said. “I’m happier because I’m these lockdown periods: cising and I would go to sleep at 1 or 2 healthy, and I can do more with my fam- • About 44% of the participants report- in the morning and I would wake up the ily because I’m not tired and sluggish ed an increase in unhealthful snacking. next day and not eat until noon. I wasn’t like I was before.” • Physical activity significantly de- thinking about it even though I knew I To reverse unhealthy habits you may creased by 18 minutes per week. needed to take care of myself.” have developed in the pandemic, Flynt • 44% of the participants reported Sherri Flynt, R.D., nutritional excel- suggests being mindful and intentional, worse sleep quality. lence manager at AdventHealth’s Center and writing down a plan for what you • Weight gain occurred in 33% of the for Nutritional Excellence, said that the will eat, how you will move, and when individuals with obesity. foods people typically gravitate toward you will rest. Instead of continuing these negative in times of stress (like a pandemic) are “Never discount those baby steps,” lifestyle behaviors in her own life, Poly- more refined foods like chips and can- she said. carpe enrolled in two weight loss pro- dies, which increase inflammation and grams, including New Day, New Weigh weaken the immune system. Ingrid Hernandez is the by the AdventHealth Diabetes Institute. “We need to flip our mindset to get- stakeholder communications Through it she was connected to a nutri- ting more plant-based foods,” she said. manager for AdventHealth.

14 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 georgiacumberlandfeature Buford Members Help the HAND ME DOWN ZOO

BY KEITH INGRAM SUBMITTED BY: KEITH INGRAM SUBMITTED BY: The Buford Family Church members helped build enclosures for a Hand Me Down Zoo. The zoo is home to many exotic an- imals, including a kangoroo (below) named Abby and a sea

SUBMITTED BY: KEITH INGRAM SUBMITTED BY: otter (left) who is saying hello to Nathaniel Ingram.

ave you ever received a hand-me- the Hand Me Down Zoo from her down? Chances are, if you have home property, and this non-profit of- Hever had siblings, you might have ten needs help to continue its mission. experienced receiving clothing that they The Buford, Georgia, Family Church no longer were using. met Ervin through a church member Clothing is one thing, but in Kerry Er- connection, and a community service vin’s case, she receives hand-me-downs mission project was formed. The Bi- of a very different sort. Ervin takes in ex- ble states in Genesis 1:26 that man was otic animals at her Hand Me Down Zoo. made in God’s image and was to have The animals often need a home because dominion over all the animals. Members their owner can no longer take care of from the Buford Family Church felt their them, or they might need sanctuary and community should help animals as well. rehabilitation. She has made it her mis- In February 2020, church members sion to provide help and shelter to these gathered to assist Ervin and her fami- animals who typically require special li- ly build animal enclosures. The Buford censes and permits. In founding the Hand Family Church’s community center Me Down Zoo, Ervin’s focus is to provide ministry continues to assist Ervin and the necessary haven, as well as to teach the animals by donating any leftover others about the fairytale vs. reality as- produce after it has helped about 80 pect concerning exotic animals. needy families each month with food When visiting the zoo, you can meet and clothing. Thus, the hand-me-down KEITH INGRAM SUBMITTED BY: zebras, racoons, reptiles, a sea otter, cycle continues. The church family asks Keith Ingram is the pastor at the Abby the kangaroo, and a variety of for continued prayer for their work and Buford Family Church in Buford, other exotic animals. Ervin operates the Hand Me Down Zoo. Georgia.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 15 gulfstatesfeature

“Acts of Peace” Reaches NEW NEIGHBORS

BY SHANE HOCHSTETLER

uring the Christmas season of 2020, Acts of Peace, a ministry Dof the Montgomery First Church in Alabama, teamed up with the area food bank and the Montgomery Hispanic Church to deliver a unique holiday gift. Since 2009, Acts of Peace has col- lected food and supplies for families in need during the holidays. Every year they assemble gift bags filled with toys, along with grocery bags filled with a

variety of fresh perishable and non- SHANE HOCHSTETLER BY: PHOTO Miriam Kust (left) and her sister, Evelyn perishable foods. This year, the ministry Maryland, worked to collect the infor- Volunteers arrange the gift and gro- partnered with the area food bank and a mation for 84 families in the weeks cery bags for clients to pick up during local supply for children’s toys. In total, leading up to the event. the holiday event. the church provided Christmas gifts for 248 children, along with a large box and Church rents an apartment in the com- services throughout the area, including the bag of groceries to their 84 families. plex to hold weekly mid-week services. Montgomery Area Foodbank and a Tuske- The ministry is led by Amy Mapp, a This prompted more families to share gee Airmen program. Montgomery First Church member, and their information. As they collected this The Christmas distribution event was her husband, Bernell. The outreach effort information to shop for age-appropriate a fantastic example of churches and peo- includes monthly food distribution as part gifts, they also learned that many apart- ple working together. The event’s success of a mobile pantry and other miscella- ments had more than one family in them. is credited to God and the efforts made neous community programs throughout Three of the small two-bedroom apart- by many people, including those who the year. Among the numerous volunteers ments that signed up for the service had went door to door, translated English and at the Christmas event were Evelyn Mary- 21 people living in them. Many of the Spanish, arranged the donations, packed land, church member, and her sister Mir- homes had little to no furniture in them. the bags, managed the cars in the parking iam Kust, a church member from Tampa, Most families drove to the church to lot, and distributed to those that couldn’t Florida. As the sisters worked together pick up their supplies, and the remaining get to the church. The partnership made to build the interest list of families and families had their gifts delivered to their with the area food bank and other com- their needs, they came across an apart- homes by additional volunteers. munity entities that provide resources al- ment complex that had many families in Another volunteer who participated in so added to the event’s success. need. They started going door-to-door, the event was Dru Amos. Amos isn’t a If each church could work together with offering to sign families up for the free church member but learned about the min- others to share strengths and partner with food and gifts that would be made avail- istry through a flyer posted at an area YM- existing programs, many community needs able closer to Christmas. At first, many CA, and has worked with the church min- could be met. It’s possible that people could weren’t answering the door or signing up istry for more than a year. Amos helped be reached in the manner of Jesus, by rec- for the giveaway. Maryland reached out with gift-wrapping, and then returned to ognizing and meeting their needs. to friends from the Montgomery Hispan- help distribute on Sunday, December 17, ic Church for their assistance in Spanish 2020. Amos retired from the Air Force in Shane Hochstetler is the com- translation opening their pathway. 2015, but said she “wasn’t done working.” munication director at Gulf States Additionally, Montgomery Hispanic Amos volunteers at various community Conference.

16 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 kentuckytennesseefeature

Spread THE GOOD NEWS

BY GARY PYKE

in my early adulthood that propelled ulously, I was, so I decided to go with me more seriously into the literature her. Outside the store was a bin of free work. We did demolition (highway books. In that bin I found a 2019 Lu- sign removal) for the State of Florida. theran book with 9,260 pastors’ names During time on the job, a state inspec- and addresses, and a 2008 Church of tor, Richard Hayford, accompanied us. Christ book with 6,000 names. A cou- Richard did not appear to be a good ple of weeks later, I was in Chatta- candidate for giving a book to. But, nooga at McKay’s, and found a 1994 on one of our trips to Florida, when Southern Baptist book with more I handed Richard a paperback book, than 52,000 names. Since that time, I he asked, “Was this written by Ellen have found numerous denominational White?” He knew about Ellen White websites with thousands of pastors’ because when he was a teenager, his names. I currently have ready access dad had become an Adventist. to well over 100,000 pastors’ names, After that, Richard kept asking for with potential for many more. When more books, so we continued to give books are sent to pastors, we often re- him more. Eventually, after join- ceive thank-you cards or requests for ing the Church, he purposely left the more books. books throughout the house, and his If we invest our means in the work wife started reading them. She, too, of soul winning, we will reap the re- was baptized. They both were on fire sults. God gives us the awesome priv- for the Lord and involved themselves ilege of having a part in seeing souls Gary Pyke in soul winning. Later, they comment- saved for eternity. ed that they were eternally grateful for “It is in working to spread the Good Gary Pyke shares his testimony about the opportunity they received when News of salvation that we are brought the literature distribution work. Richard and I were disposing old signs near to the Saviour,” Desire of Ages, in the county dump. pg. 340. y initiation into literature dis- About five or six years ago, I was tribution started when I was impressed to start sending high quali- Mjust a kid. We would spend ty hardback copies of The Great Con- an hour or so on Sabbath afternoons troversy to pastors. My goal was to get rolling up pamphlets or magazines and one to every active and retired pastor tying them with string or rubberbands. in the United States. The challenge Then my parents would drive us into was in getting names and addresses town or subdivisions, and we would for the pastors. throw our bundles onto driveways and One day, my wife told me that she sidewalks. Maybe it was not the most was going to meet our daughter at efficient form of witnessing, but it was McKay’s bookstore in Nashville, Ten- fun for us kids. It placed in our minds nessee, the next afternoon. I wanted to Gary Pyke is a carpenter and the need to spread the message. go but did not think that I would be fourth generation Seventh-day Ad- The Lord allowed me an experience finished with my job in time. Mirac- ventist in McEwen, Tennessee.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 17 southeasternfeature

Michael K. Agyei Owusu, D.Min., ASSUMES PRESIDENCY

BY SOUTHEASTERN COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT

ference provide that in the event a vacan- cy in the office of the president “occurs within six months of the scheduled reg- ular constituency session, the executive secretary shall serve as interim president until the regular session convenes.” On December 6, 2020, at the Southeastern Conference Executive Committee meet- ing, the Southern Union Conference of- ficers — Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., president; Jim Davidson, executive sec- retary; and David Freedman, treasurer — officially affirmed Michael K. Agyei Owusu, D.Min., as the interim president of the Southeastern Conference. Owusu, who has served Southeast- ern Conference for more than 25 years, the last four as executive secretary, will serve as president and executive secre- tary until the next regular constituency session, at which time the delegates to the session will elect a new president. The constituency session is currently scheduled for April 24-25, 2021. Owusu’s goal is to create an environ- ment of healing within Southeastern Con- ference, and a renewed emphasis on the mission-driven initiative adopted by the Conference in 2016 under the leadership of Gregory Mack. He believes that, “Mission Michael K. Agyei Owusu, D.Min. is the heartbeat of the Church, the very es- sence of what it means to be the Church of elegates to the 11th Regular Con- While the Conference family grieve the God, the purpose for which the Church ex- stituency Session of the Southeast- loss of the former leader and president, the ists.” Thus, it is his desire to lead the con- Dern Conference of Seventh-day workers find comfort in the Word of God stituents of Southeastern in a deeper, com- Adventists in 2016 elected Gregory O. concerning those who have fallen asleep, mitted relationship with Christ, and unite Mack, pastor, to serve as the sixth pres- and “sorrow not, even as others which the Conference in fulfilling its mission “to ident of the Southeastern Conference. have no hope…they believe that God will reach communities within Southeastern After leading Southeastern for almost bring with Jesus those who have fallen Conference with the Christ-centered mes- five years, Mack unexpectedly passed to asleep in Him,” 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14. sage of hope and wholeness.” his rest on Monday, November 10, 2020. The Bylaws of the Southeastern Con-

18 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 adventhealthnews

AdventHealth Hospitals Recognized for Safety, Quality

s hospitals across the country given across four categories - Top Chil- of the way our hospitals have continued manage increasing patient ad- dren’s Hospitals, Top General Hospitals, to prioritize the safety of our patients and Amissions, safety continues to be a Top Rural Hospitals and Top Teaching the quality of care we deliver.” point of emphasis. The Leapfrog Group, Hospitals. To view The Leapfrog Group’s latest a national nonprofit health care ratings “Safety and quality care have always Hospital Safety Grades, visit Hospital- organization, released its fall 2020 Hos- been focal points for our organization. SafetyGrade.org. To view The Leap- pital Safety Grades and Top Hospitals The emergence of COVID-19, however, frog Group’s latest Top Hospitals, visit designations, highlighting the facilities has led to new and more stringent guide- LeapfrogGroup.org/Ratings-Reports/ across the country that have excelled in lines in addition to the robust safety pro- Top-Hospitals. providing safe, high-quality care. tocols that were already present within More than two dozen AdventHealth facilities,” said William Scharf, M.D., facilities earned an “A” grade in the executive clinical director of quality fall Hospital Safety Grades release. The and safety for AdventHealth. “In a year

Hospital Safety Grades assign hospitals where we have all dealt with some un- BY ADVENTHEALTH across the country a grade based on per- precedented circumstances, I am proud formance related to preventing medical errors, injuries, ac- cidents, infections and other harms to patients in their care. To issue grades, The Leapfrog Group uses 27 measures of pub- licly available data focused on hospital safety and rates more than 2,600 acute care hospitals across the country two times per year. In addition, The Leapfrog Group awarded its Top Hospitals designa- tion to a dozen Ad- ventHealth facilities. Regarded as one of the most competitive hospital awards in the country, only 105 facilities received the distinction out of 2,200 that were under consideration. The recognition is

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 19 carolinanews

100-year-old Veteran is Keynote Speaker

n November 11, 2020, Veterans were from the front lines in the Battle of Day, the city of Asheville, N.C., the Bulge, where many others had lost Ohonored the men and women who their lives. These patients required re-am- fought and died for the citizens of this na- putations from field amputations or from tion with a celebration from City Hall. City infected injuries which were worsening. officials and members of the Buncombe Part of his own method of recovery for his County Veterans Council streamed live. patients was to teach them to play golf. Allan Perkal, the master of ceremo- Returning to North Carolina and sep- nies and former U.S. Air Force, intro- arating from the service, Moore transi- duced the keynote speaker, P.J. Moore, tioned into civilian medical service for the M.D., a 100-year-old World War II Army next 70 years of his life. Moore also acted surgeon, and a member of the Fletch- as a hospital director, medical director, er, N.C., Church. Moore is retired from chief of staff, and in many other positions. CONTRIBUTED BY: THE CITY OF ASHEVILLE THE CITY OF ASHEVILLE BY: CONTRIBUTED Mountain Sanitarium and Hospital (later During this time he and his wife, Dee PJ Moore, M.D., and Esther E. Manheimer, named Fletcher Hospital, then Advent Asheville mayor Moore, raised five children, all of whom Health: Hendersonville) on the Campus attended Fletcher Academy. Four of his of Fletcher Academy. Asheville Mayor years, to his memories of entering the children are currently serving in the med- Esther E. Manheimer honored Moore war. His entire junior class of 80 students ical field in various capacities, and one is with a proclamation naming November from Loma Linda University School of a university mathematics professor who 11, 2020 as “P.J. Moore, M.D., Day.” Medicine was drafted and had to keep up taught at Southern Adventist University. Moore was drafted in 1942, his junior with their education while still partici- After 57 years of marriage, in 2005, Dee year of medical school at Loma Linda pating in military training exercises. passed away from complications from University, and tasked to the medical After finishing his senior year, which Alzheimer’s disease. In 2008, Moore re- teams caring for soldiers on the front was cut short, Moore served a straight married. He and his wife, Elaine, reside in lines, many from the Battle of the Bulge. surgical internship on inactive duty. He the Hendersonville, N.C. area. Delivering more than 1,000 babies and felt that this was his calling by God to performing over 30,000 surgeries and in- become a surgeon. numerable amputations, when he retired After his internship ended, Moore in 2016 at the age of 96, he was the oldest worked at Lawson General Hospital out- BY PHIL WILHELM, FLETCHER ACADEMY practicing physician in North Carolina. side of Chicago, Ill., which was one of PRINCIPAL, AND COURTNEY HEROD, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION In his address, Moore prayed and then three amputee centers in the United States. FOR THE CAROLINA CONFERENCE took the audience on a journey back 78 The wounded he cared for in his ward

Students Take on Community Project

ysteria had begun to kick in due to chaplain, Eileen States, came togeth- Remnant Publications was chosen; COVID-19, and America feared er to devise ideas that would serve as a however, the total cost for shipping and Hwhat the future held as change ministry. Then, a local food distribution books proved too expensive. Help from became a constant. During these times, organization reached out to the academy God was the only thing that could save the staff members of Fletcher Academy asking for help in restocking in order to this promising plan, and that was exactly in North Carolina pondered what the meet the high demand for food. They de- what happened. academy could do for those in need. cided to combine a food drive and pass- States said about a contributing en- Fletcher’s principal, Phil Wilhelm, and ing out the Great Controversy book. counter she had, “I went to the acade-

20 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 carolinanews

my’s finance office to find out how much give the book right back, but then stood money I had in my budget. A coworker there and talked with us for the next two heard about the project and asked what hours. He wasn’t trying to change our we were doing. When she discovered minds; he accepted that the Sabbath was what we were doing, she was overjoyed the day of worship. We felt he must have and asked if the Great Controversy books known what the book was about.” could be passed out in her 600-home Student Micaela Moffit also ran in- neighborhood and [she] would help to to a similar encounter while collecting finance those books herself.” donated food from the drive. Moffit and Remnant Publications went above another student approached a house that and beyond to find a way to help secure had left the Great Controversy on the as many books as possible for the least doorstep with a paper stuck to it, reading amount of cost. What originally was go- “we do not want any propaganda.” Al- ing to cost $2300 for only 27 boxes of though this served as a negative, the very books, ended up costing $2500 for 54 next house the pair went to belonged to boxes! “That was a huge miracle,” says a grateful couple who had really enjoyed was terrified about passing out books States. “In addition to this, we sent out the Great Controversy book, and donated at first. However, “I realized I was do- an email requesting for donations, and not one, but four bags of food. “We went ing God’s work for a reason, and if He received over $5600. We have enough to through this negative experience with the wanted me to do this, then this is what I order another 2800 books and reach ma- book, but were able to get a really posi- needed to do.” ny more people with this message.” tive impact right after,” Moffit shares. With everything going on in history, Many students who helped with this Student Hadassah Julien shares that fear has been stirred within the world. project shared their testimonies. Stu- while preparing the books with a person- Thankfully there are many like those dents Josh Norris and William Holt had al note and putting each one in a hanging at Fletcher Academy, working to bring an encounter with a man who was not as bag, everyone in her group started a ma- light to the people stuck in darkness. excited about the book being placed on jor song fest of hymns and choir songs, his doorstep. “After dropping the Great and it was “a really great bonding expe- Controversy book off at one particular rience for us since it was something we BY AALIYAH ALVA, CLASS OF 2021 door,” Holt says, “the man proceeded to had never done before.” Julien said she The L.O.V.E. Project Heals Within

aleigh, N. C., Seventh-day Adven- that members can come together for tist Church is proud to have mem- Christ-centered conversations on love, Rbers with roots from around the unity, and reconciliation, as well as world, but this does not prevent Raleigh or having challenging conversations about any other church from being subject to the difficult experiences both inside and out- negative effects of racism or prejudice. In side of the church. This also has created recognition of the hurt across the country a platform for members to come together and within their own community, Raleigh and work through self-analyzation ques- Adventist created the L.O.V.E. Project. tions such as “Who am I struggling to The acronym L.O.V.E. stands for Learn- love?” and “What does church unity look ing from Others’ Vast Experiences. What like?” The steering committee is hopeful started as a small group of five members to continue this project in 2021 and is has developed into a monthly video call prayerful for their monthly meetings to with over 15 church members having an experiences as others listened, unaware grow in attendance. open discussion about how they can learn that such pain was being felt by members from each other and how to love more like of their church family. BY JESSICA PIERETTI Jesus. Some members have shared hurtful The L.O.V.E. Project was created so

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 21 floridanews

Fort Lauderdale Church Celebrates Centennial

ort Lauderdale Church, the old- est Adventist church in Broward FCounty, Fla., observed its centen- nial services virtually, November 20-22, 2020. Willie Oliver, Ph.D., family min- istries director for the Adventist World Church, was the keynote speaker. The centennial celebration began Fri- day night with a preach-off. Seven preach- ers, mostly former pastors, preached one collaborative sermon which focused on the seven last sayings of Jesus from the cross. Five minutes was allocated for each speaker: Daniel Williams, Edward Richardson, V. Eric Kotter, Ken Burrill, Joel Honoré, Rob Stevenson, and Jeffrey Thompson. Infinite Praise Choir provid- ed special music. Pauline Smith chaired the Sabbath School program. Dan Woolf provided the mission spotlight and showed the con- nection his grandfather had with Ellen G. White. Afterward, a pictorial video showed the church’s 100-year journey. “Who Will Go?” was the title of Oliver’s inspirational keynote address for the Sabbath worship service, shown on YouTube and Facebook. The sermon challenged members to continue focus-

ing on the church’s primary mission as COOKE JAMES BY: PHOTO the church celebrates what God has done Jeffrey Thompson, Ph.D., pastor, baptizes Shirley Gooding while raindrops fall in the past. Oliver and his wife, Elaine, on their heads. who are specialists in family life, con- ducted a family strengthening seminar Early Sunday morning, Shirley worshiped at the church’s first edifice via Zoom video conferencing, entitled Gooding accepted Christ as her Savior on Andrews Avenue. Fort Lauderdale “Communicating with Grace,” which re- and was baptized on Fort Lauderdale Church has given birth to five congrega- ceived rave reviews. Beach. “Imagine not even the torrential tions in South Florida. Other highlights of the weekend in- rain can stop this baptism from taking cluded a centennial Adventist youth place,” said Jeffrey Thompson, senior program, an international social coordi- pastor. “Our church began with baptisms nated by Beulah Shaw, and a gospel con- in 1920, and I think we should observe cert coordinated by Eleanor Sanderson. our centennial with a baptism.” Meanwhile, Allan Machado, Ph.D., Flor- The new convert’s husband is Rawle ida Conference president, presented the Gooding, one of two architects who de-

final sermon for the historical weekend, signed the new sanctuary of the church BY JEFFREY THOMPSON, PH.D. entitled “God is Faithful.” dedicated in 2013. As a youngster, he

22 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 floridanews

Ordination and Commissioning Services Held in Florida

Manuel A. Gómez and his wife, Bethzabé Gomez Sidany Barclay and her husband, Jerome Barclay, and their three children

Manuel A. Gómez graduated in 2016 with a master of di- University in Jamaica and two master’s Manuel Alejandro Gómez was born vinity degree from Andrews. degrees from Loma Linda University in in Cuba to Enrique Gómez and Ester During his time of study at Andrews, California: one in marriage and family Labrador. He grew up in a family where he received a call to be associate pas- therapy and the second in clinical minis- Christian values, work, and honesty tor of Hialeah Church (now called try. She has received a chaplaincy health were the flag of the home. Working in Revive), which was his home church. care endorsement from Adventist Chap- the church was his passion, and, at a Manuel and Bethzabé Gómez have laincy Ministries and is an ordained elder. young age, he served as a youth leader. been happily serving God and meeting Her most sacred ministry is being a In 2006, Gómez and his parents em- with this church since 2016. He was or- mother to her three daughters: Alexan- igrated to the United States where they dained on October 24, 2020. dria, Victoria, and Katherine. She is mar- joined Hialeah Church. In spite of the ried to Jerome who is a great support and many changes occurring in his life, his Sidany Barclay partner in ministry. love for ministry was always steadfast Sidany Barclay is a chaplain with and constant. At a youth missionary more than ten years of experience work- event in 2010, he met Bethzabé Rivero ing alongside interdisciplinary teams to who would later become his wife. During provide spiritual and emotional support this year, he also accepted God’s call for to patients, family, and staff. She was pastoral ministry. commissioned on October 28, 2020. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in She is passionate about inspiring and theology in 2014 from Southern Ad- equipping individuals to experience con- ventist University in Collegedale, Tenn. nection, meaning, and growth in every At the invitation of Florida Conference, season of life. She is a comforting pres- he then attended Andrews University ence in her places of ministry and has in Berrien Springs, Mich. On Decem- been a source of peace to those she serves. ber 13, 2015, he married Bethzabé, Sidany holds a bachelor’s degree in the greatest blessing in his life. Gómez social work from Northern Caribbean

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 23 georgiacumberlandnews

Dayton Community Chapel Experiences Rebirth

n the midst of a pandemic the pastors for the Dayton Community Chapel (DCC) Iin Dayton, Tenn., chose to have an in-person evangelistic series because the Word of God asks all to unite in sharing the gospel to those who are poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. The pandemic has caused trauma for each and every person, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the message of the Adventist movement has a remedy for trauma. Joshua Sholock, then Bowman Hills intern pastor, believes stepping out in faith during a time that Satan wanted them to stay away, made the difference. SUBMITTED BY: JOSHUA SHOLOCK JOSHUA SUBMITTED BY: He likes what Light Bearers/Arise has coined, “The year you scared the devil.” Dayton Community Chapel Church in Dayton, Tenn., was a church in decline until Joshua Sholock, Bowman Hills intern pastor, was asked if he would help replant Richie Halversen, pastor for the Bow- the church. The congregation recently held an in-person evangelism series, and man Hills Church in Cleveland, Tenn, these individuals are new members through baptism and professional of faith. asked Sholock if he would help un- dergo re-planting for the nearby DCC. Sholock said, “Yes.” According to Sholock, 35 people are listed as church members with only two attending occasionally. There are now individuals joining who have their mem- bership elsewhere who want to help re- grow the congregation. A few of the baptismal candidates were once Adventist members, but due to encounters with legalism and perfec- tionistic teachings, they left the Church. Word has now gone out in Dayton that DCC desires to be Christ centered. It

is a come-as-you-are church, not a get- SHERLOCK JOSHUA SUBMITTED BY: better-then-come church. Sholock wants Joshua Sholock (left) and Edward Zeller baptize Joanna Rogers at the Dayton people to feel that they do not need to Community Chapel in Dayton, Tenn. wear a “Sabbath, everything’s alright” mask. Everyone is dealing with some community block parties, and things that congregation. He asks for prayer, both level of shame. This needs to be talked would help grow the church younger. for himself as he starts seminary, and for about, not pushed aside. They want to make and keep evangelism the continued growth of DCC. As they strategize with Halversen and as a main pillar of Dayton Commnity meet with the core group to help energize Chapel’s DNA.

and inspire for more growth projects, Sholock is excited about the way God BY JOSHUA SHOLOCK ideas they have include outreach events, is already working to grow the small

24 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 georgiacumberlandnews

Kingsport Pathfinders Lead Others to Jesus

t all began as a dream. When Matt Hal- lam came to the Kingsport Church, he Ihad the wonderful idea to have a spe- cial evangelism series with Pathfinders leading out. The idea quickly caught on, and Pathfinders began to volunteer to speak. Despite the enthusiasm, it was many months before the dream finally became a reality. On October 1-3, 2020, six of the Path- finders presented the truth to all who would listen. There were challenges to overcome. There was a limit on how many people could attend the series in person due to COVID-19 restrictions. Thanks to IT CUNNINGHAM RHONDA SUBMITTED BY: people, the series was able to be lives- Pathfinders from the Kingsport, Tenn., Church, decided to have a special evange- lism series and they would preach. Pathfinder participants include Lucas Hallam treamed. When one of the speakers be- (left); Andy Cote; Maxwell Meyers, chaplain; Matt Hallam; Amy Cote; Amelia Mey- came sick, another Pathfinder stepped up ers; and Megan deFluiter. and presented with less than 24 hours’ notice. line, with some nights even having more in spirit, in faith, in purity.” These six It began with presentations on the state than 200 views! youth from ages 12 to 16 took the calling of the dead and the second coming of As people continue to watch and share and did their best to honor God’s call and Christ. The next night, two more Path- these messages, even more people will share the Gospel despite their age. finders presented on the spirit of proph- learn truths these Pathfinders want to . ecy and God’s Sabbath. The third night, share with the world. the final two Pathfinders shared the truth 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one de-

about the sanctuary and salvation. Each spise your youth, but be an example to BY AMY COTE night received well over 100 views on- the believers in word, in conduct, in love, SUBMITTED BY: RHONDA CUNNINGHAM RHONDA SUBMITTED BY: CUNNINGHAM RHONDA SUBMITTED BY: CUNNINGHAM RHONDA SUBMITTED BY: Amy Cote Lucas Hallam Megan deFluiter

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 25 gulfstatesnews

Conference Places New Emphasis on Families, Children

osue Sanchez, youth director of partment will immediately support local come to believe that it is the pastor’s re- Gulf States, recently shared some churches with resources that will help sponsibility for the spiritual well-being Jnews, updates, and plans at the year- them establish effective ministries in of their children,” Sanchez says, “but that end executive committee meeting at the their community. One of the resources just isn’t true.” When Sanchez encounters Gulf States Conference office. Sanchez the Conference will make available is the this issue, he asks these questions to par- holds various responsibilities for the Con- VBS starter toolkit that the North Amer- ents, “What are you doing in your home ference, and among them are his posi- ican Division produces each year. With to build their spirituality? Do you do de- tions as the director of family ministries this kit in hand, churches have the mu- votions with your children that they un- and children’s ministries. Sanchez shared sic and videos necessary to make their derstand and enjoy? Are you encouraging that while he attended recent department event a success. Vazquez has also been them to keep a prayer journal?” meetings for the Southern Union, he re- appointed as the coordinator for chil- Sanchez wants to help parents be cou- alized that more needs to happen within dren’s ministries and will lead in training rageous in their parenting and not be these ministries in Gulf States. churches on how to hold great events like afraid to be the spiritual leaders God has Sanchez worked with his assistant, VBS. They are also working to leverage called them to be. Programming is in Belkys Vazquez, and they identified children’s ministry leaders’ experience the works for an event that parents can some potential needs these ministries throughout Gulf States to assist churches attend to be trained and inspired to be could meet, and developed some plans with less experience. strong spiritual leaders. for 2021. One of the first steps was cre- Regarding family ministries, Sanchez ating a budget for children’s ministries, believes that the best opportunity for

which was virtually non-existent pre- spiritual development is in their home, BY SHANE HOCHSTETLER viously. With a budget in place, the de- led by their parents. “Some parents have

Children have the greatest potential to be positively influenced for Christ in their own homes by their parents.

26 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 gulfstatesnews

Season Two of Health Nuggets Premieres

ollowing the Health Nuggets vid- advice on losing weight, and proposes and transported to churches that don’t eo series’s success in 2018, the that traditional dieting will not deliver have internet connections. The use of FGulf States Conference Health the long-lasting results people are look- the videos is encouraged for anyone or Ministries Department has filmed and ing to achieve. However, the steps to at- any place that may find it beneficial. produced a second season of helpful taining weight-loss are within anyone’s clips. Developed and hosted by Mark reach, and Sandoval presents the first Sandoval, M.D., president of Uchee easy steps in his videos. At four to five Pines Institute and director of health minutes in length for the average vid- ministries for the Gulf States Confer- eo, they’re easy to watch and reliable to ence, the series aims to produce enough show for a health emphasis time in the videos for a local church or ministry to local church. show one video per week for an entire Sandoval again teamed up with the year. Season one provided the first 13 Communication Department of Gulf videos, and this second season is on- States Conference and filmed the new track to add over 20 new episodes. season in the Conference studio in just a The new season begins with a multi- matter of days in 2020. The episodes are part series on obesity and type II diabe- in production, and several have already tes. It offers helpful information on how been completed and released to the Con- human bodies use calories and what ference Facebook page and website at

contributes to weight gain and other www.gscsda.org/health-ministries. The BY SHANE HOCHSTETLER health issues. Sandoval also provides videos are available to be downloaded

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 27 kentuckytennesseenews

Historical Marker Placed in Madison

Ken Wetmore (left), senior pastor Madison Campus Church; Kristin Fulton, Madison Academy; Albert Dittes, local historian; and Luis Reyes, administrator Cumberland View Towers

he visionary and co-founder of the ple who came here in 1904 were not the spect for the land to Madison along with Seventh-day Adventist Church, first Adventists here, but they were the their love of the people.” TEllen White, spotted farmland for first to make really significant impacts.” The farmland White spotted in 1904 sale near Nashville, Tenn., more than Titled “Madison Adventist Origins,” has changed over the years, but there is 115 years ago. White directed Edward the historical marker is located at 1201 still a strong Adventist presence in the A. Sutherland and Percy T. Magan, two Cheyenne Blvd. in Madison in front of community. Madison Campus Seventh- Adventist educators, to that farmland in Cumberland View Towers. This histor- day Adventist Church provides outreach Madison, Tenn. A new historical mark- ical marker is one of several thousand programs to the community, Madison er on the property tells the story to those markers the Historical Commission has Campus Elementary provides school for who pass by. helped place across the state. pre-K through eighth-grade students, and Sutherland and Magan bought the The site of the historical marker is in Madison Academy adds education for property with plans of offering students the district of Metro Councilmember secondary students. both practical experience and an academ- Tonya Hancock. She had this to say: “It is good to be reminded of the past,” ic education. The land remained a farm, “The Madison Adventist origins in Dittes said, “otherwise, Adventists could but also became a school and sanitarium. our community are far-reaching. They lose their sense of mission. It’s very im- They called the school Madison College brought modern-day health care to Mad- portant to keep ourselves on mission; and the sanitarium Madison Hospital. ison; most of us know someone that was otherwise, we’ll live for ourselves. These Albert Dittes, a member of the High- born at Madison Hospital. They have are people who didn’t live for them- land Church, helped lead the effort to given up land that has made way for oth- selves.” install the marker. He said, “It had an er houses of worship as well as many of important part in starting the Adventist our neighbors’ homes. The Seventh-day BY STAFF WRITER community here in Nashville. The peo- Adventists brought a healthy love and re-

28 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 kentuckytennesseenews

Parsons PAC2 Crew Make a Difference

he Parsons, Tenn., Adventurers teamed up with the Pathfind- Ters to make a difference during Thanksgiving as PAC2: Pathfinders and Adenturers Caring for the Community. Daysi Prado, Pathfinder director, made phone calls to two local schools, Deca- tur County Middle School and Parsons Elementary School, to ask for the num- ber of families that needed help this year for Thanksgiving. One counselor said, “This year there is so much need. With sickness and joblessness there are many people who do not have much to spare, Adventurers wait for the next car to Pathfinders, Adventurers, parents, and if any, for a Thanksgiving meal.” Prado pull up and receive their Thanksgiving recipient pray together. was given a total of 22 families. basket. A Pathfinder staff member made tick- ets and gave them to the schools. The mac-n-cheese to dressing to dessert and church Christmas program was added, as tickets were marked with a pickup time, drinks. Anything you could think of that well as a coloring book. The Pathfinders date, and location of the drive-thru area. is not perishable was put in. Their church and Adventurers handwrote and drew on The children brought the baskets to each family donated so much to the cause, that cards, too. family’s car and loaded it for them. Bas- they had enough to include a $15 gro- Fourteen families came to pick up kets were pre-made with everything for cery gift card! They also put in a copy of their baskets. There was one that was a traditional Thanksgiving meal, from Ministry of Healing. An invitation to the so delighted to see the children eagerly handing out the baskets, that she came back to thank them and shake hands. She came back yet again, and they found her crying outside, thanking and hugging the co-director for such an amazing deed. She said she had just prayed one morn- ing, crying out to the Lord, asking Him what she was going to do for Thanksgiv- ing, and then her daughter came home with the ticket voucher and she just broke down into tears of joy and thankfulness. The Pathfinders and staff prayed for her and were all moved. All the hard work was worth it, even if it had been just for her. Another man said, “You have no idea how much this means to us. You just made our holiday! You seriously have no idea what you have done for our family.” And, one woman who grew up Adventist was so grateful to see the church doing something for the community. What an amazing experience for all involved!

The Pathfinders, Adventurers, and staff prepare the Thanksgiving baskets. BY DAYSI PRADO

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 29 southatlanticnews

Ministry in a Pandemic

Staff present for the voter registration drive

OVID-19 has been an incredi- vided an opportunity for residents of in Atlanta’s West End area. In collab- bly difficult time for ministry. metro Atlanta to register in time for the oration with Fulton County, West End CWith churches closed to pro- November 2020 elections, as well as Church has hosted three free drive-thru mote social distancing, many of the the vital local elections. COVID-19 testing events. ways church members are accustomed In an attempt to assist single parents to servicing the communities have in metro Atlanta, West End Church *“COVID-19 deaths analyzed by been halted. Yet, with political turmoil, hosted a diaper drive. The collections race and ethnicity” https://www.apmre- racial tensions, simultaneous rent and began in January 2020, and thousands searchlab.org/covid/deaths-by-race APM food crisis, God’s Church is needed of diapers were donated by the congre- Research Lab, October 15, 2020. now more than ever. gation and other participants. On the Through ingenuity and partnering date of the drive, August 29, 2020, an with local organizations, God has cre- estimated 10,000 diapers were distrib- ated alternative opportunities for His uted in a socially distanced drive-thru servants to meet the needs of His peo- style service. ple. In collaboration with “The New Lastly, as African-Americans contin- Georgia Project,” a nonpartisan effort ue to experience the highest mortality to “register and civically engage Geor- rate by COVID-19* in the U.S., the gians,” the West End Church, Atlan- members found it imperative to offer

ta, Ga., sponsored a voter registration the West End Church campus as a test- BY PASTOR MYLES YOUNG drive on their campus. The event pro- ing site to promote health and safety

30 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 southcentralnews

Elijah and Irene Lewis Celebrate 70th Anniversary

lijah and Irene Lewis celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on ENovember 22, 2020. The couple married in 1950 in Pascagoula, Miss., when Elijah was 21 and Irene was 17. They attended Dearburn Church in Mo- bile, Ala., and later joined the Adventist church in Milwaukee, Wisc., where they relocated in 1955. With few other men of the church, Elijah established the Sharon Travelers Gospel Quartet, and shared the Word of God through praise and worship. The Sharon Travelers sang for more than 25 years, and their success propelled them to be on TV and radio. Additionally, they were known for singing “I Have a New Home,” which celebrates the claim that by faith Jesus has made room for us in Heaven. When he’s not singing, Eli- jah enjoys the tranquil thrills of fishing in a lake near his home, and gardening with Irene. Irene’s focus has been on supporting, loving, serving her family, and friends. She has been a devoted wife, an af- fectionate mother, and compassionate friend. She also enjoys tending to her home garden, cooking delicious meals, and crocheting various items for her Irene and Elijah Lewis household. After Elijah’s retirement in 1991, the “Truthfulness and not keeping scores. Roman 8:28, “And we know that in all couple moved to Thomasville, Ala., A good marriage is being willing to say things God works for the good of those where they now reside. Elijah has held the hard things in love. Marriage thrives who love Him, who have been called ac- the position as head elder of the Thomas- when it’s with someone you know will cording to his purpose.” With 70 years of ville Church since 1997. They both have be honest with you and love you.” The marriage under their belt, they pray for served the church with dignity and integ- Lewis’ encourages that young cou- many more. rity, being pivotal to the church’s growth ples avoid the traps of vengeance and and stability. Their much-loved poster- score-keeping, citing 1 Corinthians 13:5, ity includes two daughters, five grand- “[Love] It does not dishonor others, it is children, and three great-grandchildren. not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, With a growing household they have pri- it keeps no record of wrongs.” oritized family by vacationing with their Through their many years of marriage children every year. one Scripture has been a constant re-

When asked, “What’s the key to a minder of God’s goodness when facing BY ALEXANDER MILLER happy marriage?” The reply was simply, frustrating situations and trying times,

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 31 southernadventistuniversitynews

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Receives Accreditation

n December 13, Southern Adven- is granted to developing programs through tist University’s first cohort of 11 a two-step process: candidacy for accredita- Ophysical therapist assistant (PTA) tion, followed by accreditation. Southern’s students graduated from the university’s PTA program achieved candidacy in April newly accredited PTA program. The pro- 2019, opening the door for the first group of gram achieved full accreditation on No- students to enter the program that fall. vember 3 for an initial five-year term. “By receiving accreditation this fall, “I am delighted that the accreditation this first group of graduates could be- of the program was granted on the time come licensed as physical therapist assis- Program Director Christopher Stewart frame we expected so that students who tants as early as January 2021,” Stewart instructs students during a physical completed the program are eligible to sit said. “This milestone is one of personal therapist assistant lab. for licensure examinations,” said Robert satisfaction in that we, as a department, Young, senior vice president for academ- are able to promote Southern’s mission first PTA class to graduate from Southern, ic administration at Southern. of servant leadership by training students I highly recommend the program for any- Christopher Stewart, DPT, program to be extensions of Christ’s ministry of one who is interested in it. We had great director, began developing the program healing in our community.” professors who did everything in their in 2017, following guidelines from the “I am thankful to the faculty for putting power to help us succeed.” Commission on Accreditation in Physical in their time and effort to develop a strong Therapy Education to pursue full accredi- program,” said Becka Tennant, December BY TRISNEY BOCALA tation. According to Stewart, accreditation 2020 PTA graduate. “As a member of the Theology Students Published in Adventist Encyclopedia

wo theology majors in Southern’s impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the marking the first time either student has School of Religion were recently spring semester, both students were unde- been published in a peer-reviewed format. Tpublished in the online Encyclope- terred in completing their assignments. Launched this past July as the Church’s dia of Seventh-day Adventists (ESDA). “Shortly after I assigned the project, first online reference site, encyclopedia.ad- Dan Catangay and Ryan Walker began Southern’s campus shut down as we ventist.org includes thousands of articles, the work — researching and writing the shifted to online learning to help ensure plus accompanying photos, media, and historic biographies of two influential the health and safety of our students and original documents. This ongoing project church pioneers — while taking a church employees,” Burton said. “Dan and Ryan is funded by the General Conference of history class from Kevin Burton, instruc- found ways to persevere through the cha- Seventh-day Adventists. tor in the History and Political Studies os of the pandemic while researching and “Additional writing assignments are al- Department at Southern, in Spring 2020. drafting thorough and impressive papers ready underway with other Southern stu- Catangay wrote about J.L. Tucker that will impact church members and dents, so I fully expect that the university’s (1895-1989), pastor and founder of the in- scholars for years to come.” contributions to ESDA will be ongoing,” ternational evangelistic broadcast ministry With minimal editing by their histo- Burton said. the Quiet Hour. Walker focused on medi- ry professors and ESDA historians, the cal missionary nurse and educator Esther works of Catangay, a junior from Apopka, Bergman (1894-1935) and her work in the Fla., and Walker, a senior from Nine Mile BY TINA FRIST SMITH United States and Ethiopia. Despite the Falls, Wash., are now publicly available,

32 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021

SCHEDULE A VISIT YOUR WAY

One size doesn’t fit all, so when it comes to checking out Southern, we’re giving you options:

• Virtual visits allow you to see campus and get your questions answered from the comfort of home. • In-person visits give you an immersive experience of walking around campus and meeting people face-to-face. Special precautions such as masks, temperature checks, social distancing, and limited group size will make your visit as safe as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both ways, you’ll get a guided tour, faculty visit, and admissions consultation while having the chance to ask any questions you want. We can’t wait to meet you! Schedule your visit today! southern.edu/visit

1.800.SOUTHERN • [email protected] • southern.edu/enrollment advertisements

Base, and 30 minutes from the two HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR ADVERTISING nearest towns. Call 441-234-0146 or (1) Have your pastor or local church elder write “Approved” and his signature on the sheet of paper containing email [email protected] for more the advertisement, (2) write your name and address on the same sheet, (3) specify how many times the ad is to information. [2] run, (4) send the approved ad to your conference office 6 weeks in advance of the publication date and (5) don’t forget to enclose payment in full for each month the ad is to run. Make checks payable to SOUTHERN UNION. FOR SALE – 60 acres, mining property. RATES: Southern Union: $40 for 20 words or less, including address. $45 for anything longer than High desert surrounded by BLM lands 20 words up to 45 words. $1.30 per word beyond 45. Accepted as space is available. Ads may run in successive months as space permits. near Ely, NV. $25,000 (you own 100% of mineral rights). Half of proceeds Southern Tidings makes every reasonable effort to screen all advertising, but in no case can the periodical after taxes donated to local SDA assume responsibility for advertisements appearing in its columns, or for typographical errors. church. Call 386-490-2986. [2, 3]

Property Available ADVENTIST REALTOR – Are you Positions Available PROPERTY AVAILABLE wanting to buy or sell? I can help your POSITIONS AVAILABLE dream become reality. Call Pierre SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY SUMMIT RIDGE RETIREMENT Potgieter @ ReMax Real Estate Center: seeks full-time faculty member for VILLAGE – An Adventist community 423-987-0831 or 423-664 6644. the School of Computing. The ideal in a rural setting that offers affordable Serving Tennessee and Georgia. Let candidate will have an earned doctorate homes or apartments and caring me give you a free market analysis of in computer science, information neighbors, with a fellowship you’ll enjoy. your property. [2-3] technology, information systems, or a On-site church, planned activities, and related area. Qualified candidate would transportation, as needed. Also, Wolfe FULLY, BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED teach graduate and undergraduate Living Center offering independent 1,500 square foot apartment. 2 bed, 2 courses, develop course materials, living and nursing home. Website: bath, king bed, 2 twin beds. Refrigerator, advise students academically, serve http://summitridgevillage.org or Bill washer/dryer, TV, internet. Utilities on university committees, and perform Norman 405-208-1289. © included. Shopping center outside other duties expected of full-time gated community. Near Southern. Short faculty. For a full job description and FLORIDA LIVING RETIREMENT - term (3 months minimum) $1,200, year desired qualifications please visit: independent living is owned by the lease $1,100. Adults only. Call/text 423- southern.edu/jobs [2] Florida Conference and is right here 457-3205. [2, 3] in the Central Florida area. Sunny SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY beaches, golf courses, the best FOR RENT – Mini-home on Cagle seeks full-time faculty member for medical care and shopping are all Mountain in Dunlap, TN. Ideal for one the School of Visual Art and Design. close by. Renovations and upgrades person. Furnished, utilities included. Looking for a professor of film are constant in our units. The 13.5 Quiet surroundings, gentle neighbors. production to teach cinematography, acres of property are well maintained $525 per month plus deposit. Call lighting, sound design, documentary and give you the open, country style 423-949-9695. [2] directing, and producing. M.F.A. in of living. Call Nancy today: 407-862- film production and current teaching 2646. You will be glad you did! [2, 3] FOR SALE – 4 bed, 2 bath, 1800 experience preferred. For a full job square foot home with 10 acres. 5 description and desired qualifications ENJOY WORRY-FREE RETIREMENT min. from GCA. If you’re planning to please visit: southern.edu/jobs [2] - at Fletcher Park Inn on the move to Calhoun, this may be for you. Fletcher Academy campus near Available spring 2021. Call 404-731- SOUTHERN ADVENTIST Hendersonville, NC. Spacious 6509. [2, 3] UNIVERSITY seeks full-time Director apartments available now. Ask of Adult Degree Completion. The about our limited rental units and FLORIDA SDA REALTOR – Are ideal candidate will have experience villa homes. Enjoy a complimentary you interested in buying or selling in adult degree completion programs, lunch at our vegetarian buffet in Orlando, Florida or surrounding enrollment services, or new academic when you tour. Call Lisa at 1-800- cities? I look forward to helping you! program development. Master’s 249-2882 or 828-209-6935 or visit Sandra Da Silva, Realtor: 407-840- Degree required; Ph.D. preferred. www.fletcherparkinn.com [2-7] 8500 (call/text). Service provided in For a full job description and desired English & Spanish. [2-7] qualifications please visit: southern. COLLEGEDALE HOME with just edu/jobs [2] under 1 acre, 4205 sqft, 5 bed, 6 bath. FOR RENT – 2 bed, 1 bath house Beautiful finishes, high end custom in Seale, AL. Quiet, peaceful SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY, built home. Basement is a complete in- surroundings in the country area. Five Department of Biology/Allied Health, law suite. Only 5 min. to SAU $585,00. minutes from Uchee Pines Missionary beginning fall 2021. Prefer biology PhD Wendy Dixon Team- Keller Williams Medical Center, school and Adventist who will teach upper and lower division Realty, 423-664-1800; DixonTeam. Church. About 10 minutes from public courses and labs with heavy weighting com, or call direct, Wendy Dixon Team, middle and high school, about 10 on Anatomy and Physiology I and II. 423-702-2000. [2] minutes from Fort Benning Military Please review full job description and

34 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 requirements at www.southern.edu minimum of 5 years experience in Food nursing, religion and social work. Flex- before applying. Send CV, statement of Service. Supervision and management ibility is provided through some online teaching philosophy, and 3 references experience. For a full job description and many on-campus programs. Finan- to: Keith Snyder, Biology Search please visit: southern.edu/jobs [2] cial aid may be available. For more infor- Committee Chair, Southern Adventist mation, call 423-236-2585 or visit www. University, Box 370, Collegedale, TN STALLANT HEALTH, a rural health southern.edu/graduatestudies [2-5] 37315; 423-236-2929; Fax: 423-236- clinic in Weimar, CA is accepting 1926; [email protected]. [2] applications for an Optometrist as SINGLE? WIDOWED? DIVORCED? well as an NP or PA to join the team. Meet compatible SDA’s from USA SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY Interested individuals should contact ages 18-98. Each provides: birthday, School of Education and Psychology Marva by email: marva@stallanthealth. marital status, race, occupation, inter- seeks a full-time teaching position in com [2] ests, goals, year baptized, lots more! Counseling, available for summer 2021. Safe, confidential, effective, fun! For Earned doctoral degree in counselor CAREGIVER, COMPANION, TEACHER information, application and current education from a CACREP-accredited AND FRIEND for mentally challenged catalog, send $30 to: SDA Pen-Pals, program is required. Doctoral degrees adult female. Can live in your home or PO Box 734, Blue Ridge, Georgia in clinical or counseling psychology you can live in the area where she lives 30513. [2] from APA-accredited program could but must be in a rural setting. 1800 be considered if applicant has been monthly for one shift but can work SEEKING A COUNTRY ADVENTIST employed as full-time faculty member two shifts. Verifiable church affiliation SCHOOL with an emphasis in Forest in a counselor education program required with background check. School? Algood Christian Elementary for a minimum of one full academic Individual lives close to Uchee Pines and its friendly constituent church are year before July 1, 2013. Additional institute with very friendly church on located on 30 beautiful, wooded acres requirements include but are not campus. Please call 334-855-0733 or near Cookeville, TN. Forest School is a limited to 3+ years’ experience in clinical 334-855-3033. [2] vital, year-long part of the Christ-cen- practice, licensed or eligible for licensure tered curriculum. Call 931-854-0259 in state of residence, minimum of 2-year MERCHANDISEMERCHANDISE FOR FORSALE SALE or visit algoodchristian.org [2] teaching experience at the graduate level with preference toward those with CASKETS FOR SDA – High quality ENROLLMENT FOR 2021 at Atlan- experience in face-to-face and hybrid 20-gauge steel. Includes 2nd coming ta Adventist Academy is now open! learning environments, and experience picture, Ten Commandments, 1 Atlanta Adventist Academy offers in clinical supervision at master’s or Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 3 Angles excellent Adventist education local- doctoral level. For a full job description message. Priced under $800. Call or text ly (Atlanta, GA) as well as virtually please visit: southern.edu/jobs [2] us at 865-382-1834 or 865-809-1428, through our live online program for email [email protected] [2, 3] homeschoolers and distance cam- SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY puses. To enroll your student, call seeks a full-time teaching position 404-699-1400 or visit aaa.edu/ad- in the School of Journalism and MISCELLANEOUSMISCELLANEOUS missions [2, 3] Communication. The successful candidate will have expertise in social RELOCATING? Apex Moving + Storage “THE CITIES ARE TO BE WORKED media, public relations, with intercultural has a national account contract with from outposts. Said the messenger of experience a plus. Master’s degree in the General Conference for your mov- God, ‘Shall not the cities be warned? Public Relations, Communication or ing needs. Take advantage of a volume Yes, not by God’s people living in related field required (PhD preferred). rated discount. Be assured you are them, but by their visiting them, to Minimum of 3+ years of professional moving with the best! Call Marcy Dante’ warn them of what is coming upon the experience or 3+ years of teaching at 800-766-1902; or visit us at: www. earth.’” Evangelism 77.4 As you pre- experience. For a full job description apexmoving.com/adventist [1] pare to transition out of the cities for please visit: southern.edu/jobs [2] rural and country locations, Advent NEW/USED ADVENTIST BOOKS: Construction Services is here to pro- SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY TEACH Services helping authors pub- vide you with construction manage- seeks a full-time Associate Director lish their book, including editing, design, ment solutions in the following areas of of Catering in Food Services. The marketing, and worldwide distribution. need: new construction, renovations, Associate Director of Catering will have Call 800-367-1844 for a free evaluation. alternative energy systems installa- primary responsibility of overseeing Visit www.lnfbooks.com for used books tion, etc. Marcus Gaines, MEng, Advent the catering and special function and your local ABC or www.TEACHSer- Construction Service: 205-910-2552, requests from the various departments vices.com for new book releases. [2-4] adventconstructionservices@gmail. of the University. They will also work com, https://adventconstruction2.wix- with Guest Services to cater various SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY of- site.com/website [2] events for customers outside of the fers master’s degrees in business, com- University. Experience required: college puter science, counseling, education, or trade school education preferred. A

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 35 Want to be a Better Steward?

he South Atlantic Conference provides assistance in planning for the future and advanced planning Tfor gifts to help finish the work of God. If you are looking for ways to be a better steward of the gifts God has entrusted to you, we provide resources for estate planning, wills, trusts, gift annuities and other plans.

Call your local conference or University Trust Services Director today, to see how you can leave a legacy to your local church and help others come to know the love of Jesus Christ and His saving power.

Carolina Rick Hutchinson (704) 596-3200 Florida Kentucky-Tennessee Phil Bond (407) 644-5000 Silke Hubbard (615) 859-1391 Georgia-Cumberland Oakwood University South Central Ray Hartwell (706) 629-7951 Lewis Jones (256) 726-7000 Sonja Crayton (615) 226-6500 Gulf States South Atlantic Southeastern Southern Adventist University David Sigamani (334) 272-7493 Merkita Mosely (404) 792-0535 Juan Gonzalez (352) 735-3142 Kimberly Bobenhausen (423) 236-2832 SUSDAGift.org Commander Liam’s reputation is that of a hard man who has complete control over his country’s military. In fact, to ensure his continued success and protection from his enemies, a few months ago he hired a modern-day “witch.” Recently, he received an unexpected text message. It had a link to the Unlocking Bible Prophecies series from Adventist World Radio. He wasn’t sure who’d sent it, but he enjoyed the powerful presentation and the speaker’s soothing voice that seemed to calm his soul. New messages began arriving daily, and as he listened, something changed in his heart. Soon his resident “witch” began to notice the change in him and demanded to know who was sending the messages. She said, “That woman you’re listening to has a magic more powerful than mine—I want some of that power! It gives me a strange sense of peace I haven’t felt before. How can I receive these messages too?” That’s the power of Adventist World Radio and cell phone evangelism—you never know who’s listening and how the Lord is working on their hearts. To read the rest of this story and see how your support is reaching millions around the world, visit awr.org/offering.

TWO WAYS TO SUPPORT AWR: On Sabbath, March 13, mark the offering line on your tithe envelope. Or give now by visiting awr.org/offering

1-800-337-4297 awr.org /awr360 @awr.360 @awr360 youtube.com/awrweb 12501 OLD COLUMBIA PIKE SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND 20904 USA eventscalendar

Please check the website for the ANNOUNCEMENTS GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND latest details, www.gccsda.com ALUMNI OF HOOVER CHRIS- Presidents’ Day Holiday – Feb. 15. TIAN SCHOOL, BRAKEWORTH Conference office will be closed. SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY JUNIOR ACADEMY, AND BIR- Makoto Fujimura Presents On- MINGHAM JUNIOR ACADEMY Pathfinder Teen Challenge – Feb. line – Feb. 25. Southern Adven- – April 3. Please join us to cele- 19-21. An event just for Pathfinder tist University welcomes inter- brate 73 years of Adventist ed- Teens who will have a challenge nationally acclaimed artist and ucation in Birmingham, AL. Call in some form. TBD. speaker Makoto Fujimura as he 205-987-3376 or email office@ presents on the topic “The The- hooverchristianschool.org for ACF Connect Retreat – Feb. 26- ology of Making” in an online more information. 27. A retreat for Adventist Chris- presentation at 11 a.m. The talk tian Fellowship young adults who will share his deep exploration SOUTHERN UNION CONFER- attend public universities. Online. of the spiritual calling to creativ- ENCE WOMEN’S CONVENTION ity, blending Asian history and – Sept. 8-11, 2022. Orlando, FL. Hispanic Couples’ Retreat – Feb. Christian principles while high- 26-28. Cohutta Springs Confer- lighting a unique artistic journey. INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S ence Center, Crandall, GA. Fujimura’s art has been featured CARE, ICC, a member of the Gen- in museums around the world, eral Conference Adventist Possi- Pathfinder Bible Experience including the Museum of the Bi- bilities Ministries, operates in 13 (Conference Level) – Feb. 27. ble in Washington, D.C., for the countries providing high-quality Online. inaugural exhibit. Visit southern. care, including Christian educa- edu/faithandart to learn more. tion, for orphans and vulnerable Regenerate (Youth and Young children from infancy through Adult Festival) – March 6. Online. University. The children, placed Adventurer Fun Day (Regions 3 in a family group creates a sense & 4) – March 14. of belonging—where they live in loving home environments with native house-parents. The loving SUNSET care provided helps to meet all the needs of the children; includ- FEB 5 FEB 12 FEB 19 FEB 26 MAR 5 MAR 12 ing their physical, mental, emo- ATLANTA, GA 6:13 6:19 6:26 6:32 6:38 6:43 tional, and spiritual, providing CHARLESTON, SC 5:56 6:03 6:09 6:15 6:20 6:26 a sense of security that enables CHARLOTTE, NC 5:56 6:03 6:10 6:16 6:23 6:29 growth and stability. Follow- COLLEGEDALE, TN 6:13 6:20 6:27 6:33 6:13 6:20 ing the commission in Jesus to HUNTSVILLE, AL 5:20 5:27 5:34 5:40 5:46 5:52 “care for the fatherless,” James JACKSON, MS 5:38 5:45 5:51 5:56 6:02 6:07 2:27, ICC’s unique care establish- LOUISVILLE, KY 6:11 6:19 6:26 6:34 6:41 6:48 es little villages of care-homes MEMPHIS, TN 5:33 5:40 5:47 5:53 6:00 6:06 supported by village industries MIAMI, FL 6:08 6:12 6:17 6:21 6:25 6:28 such as the jalapeño farm in MONTGOMERY, AL 5:23 5:29 5:35 5:41 5:46 5:51 Mexico. Sustaining our children NASHVILLE, TN 5:18 5:26 5:33 5:39 5:46 5:52 and growing village industries ORLANDO, FL 6:09 6:14 6:19 6:24 6:28 6:32 requires assistance from loving TAMPA, FL 6:14 6:19 6:24 6:28 6:33 6:37 donors like you. Make a differ- WILMINGTON, NC 5:46 5:53 5:59 6:06 6:12 6:17 ence today in the lives of many orphaned children. To learn more contact ICC Southern Union re- gional coordinator, Deborah Zira- kian, at (423) 647-1826, ordebo- [email protected]

38 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021 Believe. Enroll Now for Belong. Fall 2021 BeHere.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 39 NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID COLLEGE PRESS Southern Union Conference P.O. Box 923868 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 Live life to the fullest. 20-COMMCL-09935

CREATION Life is a whole-person lifestyle that helps you be healthy, happy and more fulfilled. Each letter of the word CREATION represents one of the eight principles of wholeness found in the Bible’s creation story.

Learn how this philosophy can work for you at CREATIONLife.com.

40 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | FEBRUARY 2021

20-COMMCL-09935_Outlook_Ad_new_size_F2.indd 1 10/9/20 10:25 AM