AAN-Spring-2026

ALBERTAADVENTIST.CA/AAN

STORIES OF

PENTECOST 2025

Love is the Most Excellent Way

A Reflection on 1 Corinthians 13 and the Power of Divine Love

SPRING 2026 EDITION

Buried No More — Living Out Your Gifts Anyone Can Give for Big Impact Maskwacis School Wins International Sustainability Price

Highlights

Stories of Pentecost 2025

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tories of Pentecost 2025 is a compilation of stories inspired by last year’s initiative of the churches within the Alberta Conference.

It brings together testimonies from churches across the province—stories of renewed faith, life-changing encounters, and joyful baptisms. From local congregations to larger church communities, this collection highlights how the Holy Spirit moved in powerful ways during the campaign, touching hearts and transforming lives throughout Alberta.

Alberta Adventist News is a print and digital media publication of the Alberta Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Editor Troy McQueen; Co-Editor Ruby Casipe; Graphic Design Mishell Raedeke/omnidesign.ca; Copyeditor Aimee Perez; Photo attribution: Alberta Adventist Communication unless otherwise noted.

Submission Guidelines: albertaadventist.ca/aan; Submissions: aan@albertaadventist.ca ELECTED OFFICIALS: President Jeff Potts; Executive Secretary/VP for Administration Melissa Cooke; Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer Keith Richter. DEPARTMENTAL DIRECTORS: Ministerial & Evangelism Tyler Rosengren; Human Resources Officer Jennifer Williams; Education Superintendent Gail R. Wilton; Planned Giving & Trust Services/Philanthropy Lynn McDowell; Foothills Camp Ken Harrington; Youth Roberson Dorelus; Communication/IT/Media Troy McQueen; Risk Management/ Project Development Llew Werner. ALBERTA CONFERENCE OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: Address: 5816 Highway 2A, Lacombe, AB, T4L2G5. Office Hours: Monday-Thur 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Phone: (403) 342-5044, Email: info@ albertaadventist. ca SOCIAL MEDIA X: ABAdventist, Facebook: AlbertaAdventist, Instagram: ABAdventist, LinkedIn: ABAdventist, Website: albertaadventist.ca

SPRING 2026 EDITION 04 Message from the President 06 Department News 12 Church Life

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46 School News 50 Devotional 52 Photo Submissions 55 Announcements 58 Means & Meaning

52 04 Your Church Can Reach More People with “Project New Beginnings” Small Groups!

Can small groups truly transform evangelism? In this inspiring article, Pastor Jeff Potts, shares how a relational, home-based approach—revived through Project New Beginnings during Pentecost 2025—has led to remarkable baptismal results and strong member retention across Alberta. Real stories, real numbers, and a powerful reminder that biblical discipleship still works today.

52 Love is the Most Excellent Way: A Reflection on 1 Corinthians 13 and the Power of Divine Love

In this thoughtful devotional, we are reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 22:37–40 and Paul’s powerful message in 1 Corinthians 13: love is not optional—it is essential. More than a virtue, love is the very foundation of true faith and righteousness.

Without it, even the greatest gifts lose their meaning.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Your Church Can Reach More People with “Project New Beginnings” Small Groups!

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o you wish your local church could lead more people to faith in Jesus? Do you wish your public evangelistic meetings were more effective at helping people decide to get baptized? What if I told you that there is a relational evangelistic approach that results in over half of our pre-Adventist friends getting baptized? Would you be interested? What if I also told you that with this approach, we retain nearly 100% of the people who are baptized?

I know what you’re thinking:

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This is too good to be true!

That’s exactly what I thought the first time I heard about this approach. But I had to try it. So I did. I flew down to Nashville, Tenn., to record the host segments in-studio for a series of videos designed for small groups. That was in 2013. At the time I was serving as Executive Secretary of the Manitoba-Saskatchewan Conference. Over the next four years as a conference administrator, I conducted 13 short evangelistic meetings in various churches around the conference.

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Most of these churches were small congregations which had given up on public evangelism.

Most of these churches had baptized very few people in recent years. However, in those four years, I had the joy of baptizing 86 precious people.

(I was baptizing more people per year than most of our pastors!) The good news is that almost all of those 86 people are still active in the church!

All I did was train our church members how to conduct small groups using the video series in which I was the host. They organized

the small groups and invited their pre-Adventist friends to come. After three months of weekly group sessions, I visited the church to conduct a short, 9-day reaping series.

About 90% of the preAdventists in the groups attended these live meetings at the church because they wanted to meet me in person.

They had seen me on the screen in their small group meetings. They had already formed a relationship of trust with me. They had already made several friends in the church–the people they had come to know and love in their small group meetings. These were the friends they had eaten with, and studied scripture with, and prayed with, and shared their lives with.

Do you sense how powerful this small group approach is?

It’s the same approach used by the early Christians in Jerusalem. They, too, met in small groups in homes and invited their friends to join them. In Acts 2 we read that these first Christ-followers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer… And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:42, 47, NIV).

Last year, as part of the Pentecost 2025 initiative, seven of our Alberta Conference churches implemented the same type of small group approach that I had implemented in

the Manitoba-Saskatchewan Conference. They used “Project New Beginnings,” a set of 12 half-hour videos we created at the Burman Ministry Centre. I want to thank Burman University for partnering with us on this project. Yovan Balasingam and Precious Maseko, the religious studies students who did the bulk of the teaching, did an exceptional job on these videos. Nwamiko Madden orchestrated the video recording and worked with a team of video editors to produce the Project New Beginnings (PNB) videos in a very tight timeframe.

We will use Project New Beginnings in hundreds of groups over the next few years. Would you like to know what happened in the churches that implemented this strategy in 2025? In these seven churches, there were a total of 18 small groups, in which 44 pre-Adventists attended regularly. Of these 44 pre-Adventists, 42 of them attended the live evangelistic meetings at the church.

(That’s 95% who transferred to the evangelistic series!) The exciting news is that of the 42 who attended the evangelistic meetings, 24 of them have been baptized! That’s a 55% conversion rate! Praise God! The bottom line is that this small group approach works very well in the Alberta Conference. All of the pastors who implemented this approach highly recommend

it. The small groups provide a healthy environment for our pre-Adventist friends to build relationships and study scripture with our church members. Our experience in the Alberta Conference has demonstrated that this approach is highly effective at leading people to Christ and baptism. In addition, the retention rate is also high because the new members have a solid friendship base in their new church family.

Their friends mentor them and take care of them. This is biblical discipleship.

We are now halfway through the current quinquennium.

Our goal is to baptize 3,000 people in this 5-year period. In the first half of the quinquennium, we have welcomed 1,085 people into our Alberta Conference family by baptism or profession of faith. If we are to reach our goal, we’ll need to baptize 1,900 people in the next 2.5 years. This will require a powerful movement of the Holy Spirit. We anticipate that Project New Beginnings will help us reach many people for Christ!

Jeff Potts

President Alberta Conference

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DEPARTMENT

NEWS

Grande Prairie Seventh-day Adventist Church Mourns Loss of Pathfinder Leader Following Tragic Bus Accident February 9, 2026 Dear Alberta Church Family, It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we write to inform you of a tragic accident involving the Grande Prairie Pathfinder Club on the evening of February 7, 2026.

While returning home from the Pathfinder Bible Experience event in Edmonton, the club’s charter bus left the roadway between Valleyview and Grande Prairie.

We are heartbroken to confirm that Lillian Banda, beloved wife of Pathfinder Club Director Nathan Banda, lost her life in this devastating accident. Multiple club members and leaders sustained injuries.

In the wake of this tragedy, comprehensive support is being provided for the Grande Prairie church and all those affected: •

•

•

Professional counseling services are available at the Grande Prairie church and are meeting with families, club members, and community members A specialized pastoral care team has been deployed to provide ongoing support and ministry Medical and emotional support continues to be coordinated for all affected in this tragedy

A Call for Prayer We urgently ask our entire Alberta church family to join together in earnest prayer for: • • • •

The grieving family who lost their loved one All injured club members and leaders as they recover The Grande Prairie church and local community The pastoral care team ministering during this difficult time

In times of unimaginable sorrow, we cling to God’s promise:

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God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Psalms 46:1

Let us surround this community with prayer, compassion, and unwavering support.

With deepest sympathy, Alberta Conference Administration

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ALBERTA CONFERENCE PRESENTS:

CHURCH MINISTRIES CONVENTION

April 10-12, 2026

Chinook Winds Adventist Academy, Calgary

SEMINAR presenters

Dr Prudence Pollard Oakwood University

Dr Leslie Pollard NAD

dr Bill Payne NAD

seminar topics ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Natural Church Development Personal Ministries Sabbath School Children’s Ministries Young Adult Ministries Church Clerks Communications Stewardship Youth Ministries

Dr Samuel Pagán Burman University

Dr Jonathan Campbell Burman University

All participating churches are asked to contribute a flat registration fee of $50—whether you are sending one attendee or one hundred.

We look forward to having your church be part of this special gathering!

Registration Opens February 23,2026

For more information, please contact pastor Reynold Ferary, Alberta Conference Sabbath School/Personal Ministries Director rferary@albertaadventist.ca

albertaadventist.ca

Scan for more information or visit qr.albertaadventist.ca/churchministriesconvention SPRING 2026 Alberta Adventist News

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DEPARTMENT NEWS

Buried No More — Living Out Your Gifts

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ave you seen those YouTube videos where a “treasure hunter” seeks to uncover something that had been hidden away for years? Storage unit buyers, magnet fishers, and metal detector enthusiasts are all seeking some lost or forgotten valuable. The thrill of discovery is undeniable.

Yet, what fascinates more than the treasure itself is the reality that something of value was hidden away — lost or unappreciated— waiting to be found!

Similarly, each of us has a treasure— our God-given talents— sometimes buried, waiting to be uncovered and shared. Too often, they remain hidden and unused, missing the chance to bless others.

The Parable of the Talents (Matt. 25:14-30) teaches a simple but central truth: God entrusts “talents” to

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Our talents are gifts from God, given for good works prepared

by Him—not to earn His favour, but as the outflow of His grace.

Every gift and talent in the body of Christ matters.”

His followers and expects faithful and wise use. Each servant received talents according to ability, and faithfulness was measured by how they used them, not by comparison to the others.

Stewardship is more than money. It includes faithful care of all God’s entrusted gifts— skills, abilities, influence, intellect, health, time, and opportunities to love and serve others.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”—1 Peter 4:10, NIV We are called to serve the Lord and the world around us wherever He has placed us, with the talents— the gifts— that He has given us. These gifts are both material and spiritual— expressions of God’s grace shared with the world. To do so is a privilege that blesses others, nurtures love, and overcomes selfishness in us.

Paul reminded the Corinthians— and us— that gifts and abilities are entrusted to us by God (2 Cor. 4:7).

The talents we have are not given for our glory, but God’s. Jesus perfectly modeled faithful stewardship, living in total dependence on God for His glory. His life teaches us to steward our talents by doing God’s will in blessing others and growing in our connection with Him. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights…” — James 1:17, CSB

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DEPARTMENT NEWS The great battle in the human heart is about who is in control. Though Scripture affirms God as the true Source of every good gift and the One deserving of glory, the human heart cries out for recognition. We clamour for ownership rather than stewardship—making this a spiritual battle of the heart.

“He then told them, ‘Watch out and be on guard against all greed, because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions.’”— Luke 12:15, CSB God shares with us that talents come from Him. Glory belongs to Him. Talents are given to bless others with His love. Satan tempts us with pride when we begin to say, “Look what I did,” with self-reliance in our gifting.

It is only partial surrender if we use our talents for ourselves while giving God only verbal credit.

But the Lord shows us a better way. “For we are his workmanship, created

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in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.”— Ephesians 2:10, CSB Our talents are gifts from God, given for good works prepared by Him—not to earn His favour, but as the outflow of His grace. Every gift and talent in the body of Christ matters. Using them well is how we live out the identity He has given us— His masterpiece. What God gives us is His gift; how we use it is our act of worship.

What are your talents?

The Bible speaks about the variety of spiritual gifts God has given (1 Cor. 12:4-7), and it also speaks about how God has given individuals artistic gifts—natural skills and trades that can be used for God’s glory (Exod. 31:15). Our talents include both spiritual gifts and everyday abilities through which God works. What we do at work, in a classroom, or a hobby shop is not separate from our faith. In every life pursuit, we

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are privileged to experience a cooperation with the divine.

In whatever ways we have been blessed by God with talents, be they few or many, we are called to live a life of service for the blessing of others. Jesus lived this way; He calls us to live this way as well.“…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”—Matthew 20:28, CSB Beyond just the use of our financial resources, we are called to live a life of faithfulness, of stewardship, in all aspects of our lives. God doesn’t present this calling of stewardship to us as an obligation, but rather as a privilege; it isn’t a burden, rather it is an opportunity to live our worship to the God who has blessed us abundantly.

Whether we have many talents or few, faithfulness is required of all (1 Cor. 4:2).

Talents left unused diminish; talents used faithfully multiply. As is seen in the

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DEPARTMENT NEWS

The body of Christ needs every contribution of talent, not only the most visible ones.”

parable of the talents (Matt.

25), those servants of the Master who were faithful with their entrusted responsibility were commended to greater responsibility and joy.

So we can see that the faithful use of our talents doesn’t only bless others through their use. There is a reciprocal blessing that comes back to us. We grow and we are blessed as we use our talents for the Master. True Christian growth comes through faithful action in our lives.

We are a part of a community of faith that God is leading. He is the Head of the Church and has seen fit that the members of His body have been equipped with whatever is needed for the body to function well. Different gifts and talents

serve different purposes. No one has all the talents God distributes. Everyone is needed. So use what you have!

The body of Christ needs every contribution of talent, not only the most visible ones. What God has given you contributes to the body of Christ and the success of God’s mission in the world.

“Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord…”— Colossians 3:23, CSB Treasure hunters go to great lengths to uncover what’s been obscured. They know that value lies hidden beneath the surface. God-given talents hold immense worth but bless others only when they are used.

The question isn’t, “Do I have enough?” but, “Am I willing to use what I’ve been given?”

Today, the Master invites you to dig up what may have been hidden away, forgotten and unused. Don’t let those precious gifts—your talents— go to waste. Uncover them, nurture them, and invest them in the work of God’s kingdom. “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’”— Matthew 25:21, RSV We are called to discover, develop, and deploy our talents. Seek God’s counsel, act intentionally and faithfully, and steward not just what you have, but who you are, for God’s glory!

Pastor Jason Williams Volunteer Stewardship Coordinator, Alberta Conference

*If you would like to learn more about the goals and objectives of the Alberta Conference Stewardship Ministries department, or learn about resources available to help you or your church grow in faithfulness, please visit albertaadventist.ca/stewardship, or contact Pastor Jason Williams at stewardship@albertaadventist.ca

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Alberta Adventist News

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CHURCH LIFE

STORIES OF PENTECOST 2025 “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”

Acts 1:8 NLT

An Unexpected Smile STORY 1

September 15-20, 2025 On the last Sabbath of our mission trip, one of our church members went out to deliver books in the community. At one house, she rang the doorbell and a young woman came out—her arms and face covered in tattoos and piercings. In that moment, our member’s first thought was, “She probably won’t want this book.” But what happened next completely changed her heart.

Pathfinders sharing literature door to door, connecting with the community and spreading hope through personal outreach

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The young woman smiled warmly, accepted the book, and held it close to herself with both hands—as if she were embracing something precious. Almost tearing up, she said softly that she would read it and was truly thankful for the gift.

Our church member was deeply moved. In that moment, she realized how quick she had been to judge based on appearances and how wrong that assumption had been. She left that home with a renewed heart and a powerful reminder: we should never judge anyone before giving them a chance to show who they truly are. God’s love can reach every heart, often in the most unexpected places.

Calgary Central church members.

CHURCH LIFE

Evangelistic Series with Pastor Randy Barber STORY 2

September 15-October 3, 2025 From September 15 to reaching rock bottom, he October 4, 2025, Pastor found his way back. He Randy Barber led an inspiring attended every meeting evangelistic series at Calgary faithfully and was baptized Central church. The meetings on October 11, 2025, were well-attended by both rededicating his life to Jesus. church members and people Colleen had attended from the community. So far, Calgary Central as a child we’ve celebrated 10 baptisms with her mother, but over and several more individuals the years, life’s struggles led are currently preparing to her away from church. make that same commitment.

Recently, feeling lost Praise God for His goodness! and overwhelmed, she One particularly beautiful prayed earnestly for God aspect of these meetings to help her find her way was seeing several former again. Not long after, she Adventists return to the faith. checked her mailbox—a Three of them chose to be mailbox she hadn’t opened baptized at the conclusion in quite some time—and of the series—each with a found a flyer for Pastor moving story of God’s grace.

Barber’s meetings. She Tom grew up with an immediately saw it as Adventist father, but he was an answer to prayer. On never baptized. For about opening night, Colleen 40 years, he lived apart from was the first person to the church. Tom felt that arrive, and she came every he needed to come back to single evening afterward. the Adventist church and On October 11, 2025, she he attended every single too recommitted her life night; and on October 18, to Jesus through baptism.

2025, he gave his life to These stories remind us Christ through baptism. that God never gives up Brent also grew up in an on anyone. No matter how Adventist home but left the long someone has been church early in life. After away, His love continues facing many hardships and to call them home.

—Submitted by Pastor Ghena Girleanu

Pastor Ghena Girleanu leading the baptism of Calgary Central Church’s candidates in a special moment of faith and commitment.

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CHURCH LIFE

International Food Fair Please submit your menu, prices, and project details. Kindly note that the funds raised from your booth need to be allocated to a specific project such as Pathfinders, Adventurers, church, or school projects. They cannot be used for operating expenses for a church or school.

If you are interested in participating again this year, please contact Dorothy Falesau at dfalesau@albertaadventist.ca

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CHURCH LIFE

The Church That Wouldn’t Stay Inside Something unusual happened at Salisbury United Church in Sherwood Park, last October. There was no drama, no smoke machine, no headline act, just a preacher from Hope Channel Canada, a crowd hungry for purpose, and a stirring idea: maybe Pentecost isn’t an ancient story—it’s a present assignment.

Pastor Samuel Sinnanainar from Hope Channel Canada spent four days dismantling the comfortable notion that the Holy Spirit is only for Sabbaths. His opening night message, “When the Spirit Comes, You Can’t Stay Silent,” set the tone. “The Spirit,” he said, “doesn’t just make you shout; He makes you move.”

By Friday, he was talking about “Pentecost in Everyday Life”—how divine fire belongs in kitchens, classrooms, and offices. On Sabbath, the message turned personal: “Lost People Matter to God.” Between worship and potluck, something tangible shifted. Attendees were asked to write down ten names—ten people to pray for, love, and reach out to. A thousand quiet missions were born on scraps of paper that day.

Sunday morning at Red Willow Church in St. Albert, brought the weekend’s

Pastor Samuel Sinnanainar of Hope Channel Canada speaks during a four-day series, challenging the idea that the Holy Spirit is only active on Sabbaths and calling believers to live out their faith daily.

twist. Under the banner “Sticky Discipleship,” Pastor Sinnanainar quoted leadership thinker Carey Nieuwhof: “Churches that grow are intentional.” He listed five reasons churches stall—such as no mentoring, too much maintenance, too little multiplication—and offered a roadmap from Acts 2:42–47. Then came a line that hung in the air: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast,”

by Peter Drucker, a wellknown authority on modern management theory. The implication? Programs don’t change people—people do.

The story continued

past that weekend; on November 29, 2025, Sherwood Park Church didn’t meet in its usual space. Instead, members took to the streets for Service Sabbath, trading pews for sidewalks under the banner “The Church Has Left the Building.”

If Pentecost began in an upper room, it seems this congregation has found its next chapter— out where wind and Spirit still move freely.

Still Pentecost. Right here. Right now.

—Submitted by Pastor Henry Tembo

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CHURCH LIFE

A Story of Transformation: The Mind-Craft Pentecost 2025 Evangelistic Series

At the Parkland Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Mind-Craft Pentecost 2025 Evangelistic Series unfolded as a powerful journey into the heart and mind of Christian transformation. It draws from both biblical principles and psychological insights, showing how understanding the workings of the mind can lead to deeper transformation in Christ.

The theme centred on a profound truth— that the battle for salvation begins in the mind. Drawing from Romans 12:2, the series emphasized that true conversion is not just a change in behaviour, but a renewal of the mind through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Throughout the sessions, attendees explored how thoughts shape emotions, decisions, relationships, and ultimately, one’s spiritual walk. The message was clear: when the mind is surrendered to God, the entire life begins to change.

Among those touched by this message were two young Indigenous women who attended the series. Both had long struggled with addiction, fighting daily battles that left them weary and searching for hope. During the meetings, they began to see themselves through the lens of God’s grace. The teachings helped them reflect deeply on their choices and the pain they carried—but more importantly, it opened a door to healing and renewal.

They shared how the series had become a turning point in their lives.

Through the power of the gospel, they began to experience genuine transformation—finding strength, peace, and purpose they hadn’t known before. Their testimonies became a living witness to the truth that when the mind is renewed, the spirit follows.

Even after the series ended, I continued to stay in touch with them.

One person also committed to baptism, with whom I am currently doing Bible studies.

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CHURCH LIFE

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Drawing from Romans 12:2, the series emphasized that true conversion is not just a change in behaviour, but a renewal of the mind through the power of the Holy Spirit.”

“Inside the Mind”—A Story from Onoway Seventh- day Adventist Church At the Onoway Seventh-day Adventist Church, a special Pentecost 2025 evangelistic series titled “Inside the Mind” was held.

The sanctuary had many waiting with quiet anticipation as members and visitors gathered, eager to explore the deep connection between the human mind and spiritual life.

The series was unlike any other. Rather than focusing solely on doctrine or prophecy, it delved into how our thoughts, emotions, and mental struggles shape our relationship with God. Each presentation drew from both biblical truths and psychological insights, revealing how understanding the workings of the mind can lead to genuine transformation in Christ.

As the weeks went on, many hearts were touched. People began to see how their mental battles—fear, doubt, and anxiety—had often stood in the way of their spiritual growth. The presenters’ messages encouraged them to surrender

these struggles to God and allow Him to bring healing to the hidden corners of their hearts.

One evening, after a particularly powerful session, a regular attendee lingered after the program. With tears in the eyes and shared, “Pastor, where were you 40 years ago when I needed this? I struggled with immense anxiety at work back then. If only I had heard these messages—it would have helped me so much. Even now, I realize that some of that pain hasn’t completely healed.”

The pastor listened with compassion, reminded once again that God’s timing is always perfect.

Though the pain of the past was real, the healing power of God’s Word was still at work—restoring, renewing, and bringing peace to troubled minds.

Through “Inside the Mind,” lives were being changed—not by human wisdom, but by the divine truth that when we let God renew our minds, He transforms our entire being.

I am currently working with a family of four to prepare for baptism, as they indicated they want to become members of our church. Also, I am keeping in touch with other visitors who have attended.—Submitted by Camoy Williams, Pastor, Onoway and Parkland churches SPRING 2026

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CHURCH LIFE

Calgary Spanish Church At Calgary Spanish church, we have been actively engaged in community outreach to build meaningful connections.

Every Saturday, we distribute bread and donated food to those in need. We also organize prayer groups, offer Bible studies as part of the Pentecost 2025 initiative, and distribute evangelistic literature and books.

So far, we have baptized five people. Four others are currently studying the Bible and have confirmed their acceptance of the doctrine to be received by profession of faith. Additionally, we have four candidates preparing for the next baptismal date.

During our evangelistic weekends, we preach the series provided from Pentecost 2025 resources.

We hope this initiative will

spark a lasting flame that continues into Pentecost 2026 and beyond, growing in the coming years until we are finally home.

One testimony that deeply impacted me was Priscilla, a young evangelist and Spanish-English interpreter who used to translate for evangelistic programs at her Pentecostal church.

She had led her own family to conversion within that church. After marrying a member of the Calgary Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, she approached me for Bible studies—initially with the intention of showing me what she believed were errors regarding the law and the Sabbath, and ultimately to bring her husband into the Pentecostal church.

Priscilla at her baptism with her family.

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“I want to be baptized and become part of the Adventist church.

I want to share this message with the world and tell my family from the Pentecostal church that I’ve found the truth of salvation in Christ.”

—Priscilla

I agreed to study with her, but suggested we begin with the topic of the kingdom of grace in the Old Testament.

I told her we would later study the law, the Sabbath, and any other doctrines she wished. After about four studies focused solely on grace in the Old Testament, she kept asking, “When will we talk about the law?”

I replied, “Once we finish studying grace—we’re almost there.” I pointed out how Peter used the Old Testament to call 3,000 people to baptism in Acts 2:41, and how Philip used the book of Isaiah to lead the Ethiopian eunuch to baptism.

Suddenly, she began to cry and said, “Now I understand that God’s people in the Old Testament were saved by the grace of Christ, not by the law. Obedience to

CHURCH LIFE the law was—and still is—a result of Christ’s work in us.” She added, “There’s no need to scrutinize the law or the Sabbath further— it’s clear to me now.”

But we went through it, then she added: “I want to be baptized and become part of the Adventist church.

I want to share this message with the world and tell my family from the Pentecostal church that I’ve found the truth of salvation in Christ.”

I baptized her on September 6, 2025. She was recently nominated as a deaconess, serves as an associate teacher in children’s ministry, preaches at church, and is a skilled translator during Sabbath sermons when needed for English-speaking visitors.

She is brilliant and asked to continue studying with me to deepen her understanding of doctrine so she can teach, lead Bible studies, and make disciples.

Just days before her baptism, she told me, “Pastor, my plan was to bring my husband to the Pentecostal church—just like I had brought my Catholic parents. But it turned out the other way around: Christ led me to my husband’s Adventist church.” She now desires to be an effective missionary.

—Submitted by Gardner Bermudez Pastor | Calgary Spanish and Maranatha Spanish Seventh- day Adventist Churches

Pentecost 2025 in Sylvan Lake Pentecost 2025 in Sylvan Lake took the shape of a few different activities with the goal of ministering to the new attendees in our congregation and our community at large. Before we hosted our evangelistic series, we conducted two depression and anxiety workshops, a back-to-school yard sale by kids for kids, and a week of prayer. During this time, we have conducted several Bible studies and have baptized eight individuals so far. At the time of writing, we are preparing a lady and her granddaughter for baptism on November 22, 2025. As a result of their Bible studies and the influence in their home, one of her daughters and her boyfriend have started receiving Bible studies.

God is moving in a mighty way in Sylvan Lake and we are truly privileged to be part of what He is doing.

—Submitted by Pastor Filicia Williams

Pastor Filicia (left photo), and Bill Spangler (right photo), baptising individuals as they take a public step of faith and renewal in Christ.

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CHURCH LIFE

Pentecost 2025 in Bonnyville At the Bonnyville small group, one of our pre-Adventist friends shared her burden for her husband who was not religious at all. I prayed with her and encouraged her to pray daily for her husband. She did. She even brought him to church one Sabbath but he seemed entirely disinterested.

Toward the latter part of our small group experience, he had a dream where Jesus stretched out His hand towards him. As he touched the hand of Jesus in the dream, he remembered feeling at peace. He described feeling a warmth he had never felt before. He started coming to the small groups as well. During our evangelistic series, he faithfully attended every evening, even one night when his wife could not make it. The meetings started 6:30 pm nightly but he was always there half an hour early.

He is already testifying at work that Jesus and the Bible changed his life and he can no longer work on Sabbath.

He is even offering to mow the lawn with his boys next summer and looking for ways to be involved in church.

A small evangelistic group, guided by Pastor Grant Lottering, engaging in meaningful faith-sharing with the community.

The second story from the Bonnyville small group is about a lady who lost her uncle a few years ago. She came on the first night when we did the lesson on “Voices from Beyond the Grave—Can the Dead Speak to Us?” After the Bible study, she gave a very emotional testimony about how she had been struggling to come to terms with her uncle’s death for the past several years. She had

spoken to many counselors, but she was still battling with her grief. As she listened to the study, it gave her so much comfort and peace to know that her uncle is at rest, and she is no longer suffering nor observing her struggle with grief from an afterlife. She left the meeting feeling as if a heavy burden of grief was lifted from her shoulders.

—Submitted by Pastor Grant Lottering

Pastor Grant Lottering performing multiple baptisms, marking the faith journeys of people of different ages coming to Christ.

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CHURCH LIFE

Mirror Church Mirror Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Pentecost 2025 meetings were held September 6–13, 2025.

Several community outreach events were conducted beforehand to let people be introduced and invited to the meetings.

First, there was a community fun day several weeks before—a Sunday where a free autumnal meal of potatoes, corn on the cob and the trimmings, and side dishes let people fill their stomachs while the kids had endless fun with a bouncy castle, slip and slide, and other games. The unrushed time and beautiful weather let great conversations and relationships happen!

Posters had been put up, but it was the door- to- door invites that really encouraged visitors to come out. One woman had her husband drive their family over to the address listed. Upon seeing the church, she exclaimed, “These are my people!” It turns out she had been

raised Adventist. Together with their child, they came not only to the fun day, but throughout the meetings, and are continuing with the follow-up “New Beginnings” Bible studies held weekly.

There were a good number from the community who came out for the fun day, then the night before the meetings started, violinist Hayden Wiseman from Australia held a free concert in the same venue.

The Mirror Pentecost 2025 series had a unique angle, in that two of our local church leaders shared the speaking responsibility. Rhonda and Kelly did a great job of presenting the nightly topics.

The attendees readily saw their passion and were able to relate to the speakers as regular people. Lindsay really stepped up to coordinate a nightly kids’ program followed by refreshments, furthering the relationshipbuilding time between guests and members.

There have been three baptisms since the meetings.

One especially exciting story was the baptism of an adult daughter of a church elder.

She had seen her father become an Adventist when she was younger and grew up in an Adventist home.

And it was now, so many years later, that she was spending a little time at her father’s home and able to attend all the meetings.

Pastor Sandra Deer mentored her with a personal week of prayer and more Bible studies. A few weeks after the meetings, God really moved her to decide to be baptized!

It was such an exciting time to see her father—together with Pastor Sandra—baptize her in an outdoor service on that Sabbath afternoon.

For two weeks in a row, the Mirror church family came to the little lake beside the Deer’s home for baptisms.

The first week was Pastor Deer’s daughter together with her friend, and then the next weekend it was the elder’s daughter. So precious and exciting!

— Submitted by Pastor Ted Deer

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

(Psalm 143:10 NIV)

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The youth who preached during the evangelistic series in Chestermere are pictured here holding the green gift bags. On the far right is Pastor Jesse Anunciacion.

CHURCH LIFE

An Inspiring Story from Chestermere Church!

The Lord graciously blessed the evangelistic campaign that we conducted at the Chestermere Adventist Church. Truly, His hand has been evident in every step of the work.

One of the most inspiring stories from the Chestermere series is that of Tess Lobaton.

Tess had been a devoted Catholic all her life. About twenty years ago, she was introduced to the Adventist faith through several Adventist friends who invited her to Sabbath services and offered her personal Bible studies with the pastor and a lay leader. However, due to the pressing demands of work and family, she gradually stopped attending the studies and Sabbath worship. Eventually, she lost contact with her Adventist friends and returned to her former religious practices.

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Then, just a few days before our evangelistic series began accept Jesus and be baptized. in Chestermere, one of our One of the friends she had church leaders happened to brought to the meetings also visit the car dealership where decided to give her life to Tess worked. They immediately Christ and will be baptized recognized each other, and on November 22, together without hesitation our lay with two other candidates—a leader invited her to attend mother and her daughter. the upcoming evangelistic We praise God for His meetings. He handed her a marvelous providence and flyer and followed up with a for granting us the privilege phone call during the week of sharing the love and saving to confirm her attendance. grace of Jesus through our True to her word, Tess Pentecost 2025 evangelistic attended the first session— campaign. As for our lay leader and she later shared that the who visited the dealership that moment she stepped into the day, he firmly believes that it church, she felt as though she was no coincidence—but God’s had come home. At the second divine appointment—that meeting, she didn’t come alone; led him there. What began she brought along two of her as a simple inquiry about a close friends. Out of the eight car became an opportunity to sessions, she missed only one reconnect with Tess and lead due to a work commitment. her back to the Saviour’s fold.

As the series drew to a To God be the glory! close, Tess and four others — Submitted by Pastor made their decision to Jesse Anunciacion

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Report on the Calgary Fil-Can Church Pentecost 2025 Initiative The Calgary Fil-Can Church has just concluded its Pentecost 2025 initiative—an eight-night Bible seminar series themed “Best Friends Forever!” The meetings were held Sunday evenings throughout October and November at the Trico Centre in southwest Calgary.

A total of 54 guests attended the series. Of these, 28 joined multiple sessions; four attended all the meetings; 10 missed only one meeting; and the rest attended at least four times.

We praise God that 15 guests confessed Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, and nine have already been baptized. The remaining individuals, by God’s grace, will be scheduled for baptism following additional follow-up ministry. We also plan to follow up with everyone who attended at least once.

Among the newly baptized was Linda, a kind and devoted 76-year-old woman who had long carried a deep fear of being submerged underwater due to a traumatic near-drowning incident at age 12. Although this fear resurfaced when she decided to be baptized, God graciously strengthened her. With courage and joy, she entered the baptistry, publicly declaring her faith in Jesus Christ.

Another inspiring testimony is that of Wade. One of his sons was baptized on November 15, 2025. His daughter was scheduled for baptism on the same date but was unable to proceed due to illness, so her baptism was rescheduled for November 21. That afternoon, I received a message from Wade’s wife sharing that he, too, had decided to be baptized alongside his daughter.

After 15 years of hesitation, the Holy Spirit touched his heart, and Wade fully surrendered his life to Jesus!

We give all praise and glory to God for the marvelous things He has accomplished throughout our Pentecost 2025 campaign. May the seeds planted continue to grow as we nurture these precious souls in their walks with Christ. —Submitted by Pastor Jesse Anunciacion

ts before Wade momen n. io ss his immer

Wade and Hailey pictu red just bef baptism by ore their Pastor Jess e Anunciac ion.

Jorieth Kate Cadaweng, 18 years old.

Called Before Baptism For the Pentecost 2025 initiative, the Calgary M.E.T.R.O. church took several youth on a ShareHim mission trip to Costa Rica to conduct evangelistic meetings. Jorieth was one of the church’s Bible students. Although she was not yet baptized, when Jorieth learned that young people from the church were going to Costa Rica on a mission trip, she wanted to Pastor Sam join them. Initially, Cadiz baptised Pastor Sam Cadiz Jorieth in Liberia, Costa Rica. wasn’t sure about her going on the mission trip. He hadn’t yet finished the Bible lessons with her. But Jorieth promised Pastor Sam that she would study the lessons on her own.

Pastor Sam had the privilege of baptizing Jorieth in Liberia, Costa Rica. What amazed him about her story was that she began preaching the gospel before she was baptized.

The church where Jorieth preached her series appreciated her so much!

They gave her a lot of gifts. God worked powerfully through Jorieth’s ministry to spread the Gospel, even though she was new to the faith.

Today, Jorieth is volunteering in the children’s ministry department, teaching Sabbath school. We praise God for Jorieth!—Submitted by Sam Cadiz, Pastor, Calgary M.E.T.R.O. Church SPRING 2026

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CHURCH LIFE

Praise team singing theme song.

Malik in the pool for Baptism with Pastor Recardo Thompson.

A Story of Hope: Malik and Yashel’s Journey to Christ During our recent series, a young man named Malik attended church for the very first time, invited by one of our faithful members. Malik had been carrying a heavy burden for years— struggling with depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and a sense of being lost. He had never truly known Christ.

The night before he was invited to church, Malik had a troubling dream: in his dream he woke up and, inexplicably, had pulled out all of his teeth. Overcome with anxiety, he wept, trying to understand why he would do something so extreme. His teeth were very precious to him, and the dream left him feeling restless and unsettled for the entire day, as if his life were unraveling.

Then the invitation came.

That evening, Malik walked through our church doors.

During the sermon, something remarkable happened—he 24 Alberta Adventist News

“

Malik had been carrying a heavy burden for years— struggling with depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and a sense of being lost. He had never truly known Christ.”

was deeply convicted. Tears streamed down his face as he realized his need for Jesus. After the service, Malik approached Pastor Ricardo Thompson, saying through his tears, “I am struggling, and I want you to pray for me.”

They prayed together and Malik felt a powerful assurance: God has a plan for his life, and he could trust that plan. He sensed that God intended to use him for great things. In that very moment of conviction, Malik made a life-changing decision. Without hesitation, he surrendered his life to Jesus and requested baptism, openly committing himself to follow Christ.

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Witnessing Malik’s bravery, Pastor Ricardo gave him the opportunity to share his testimony with the congregation. His story touched hearts deeply. Among those listening was a 23-year-old young lady named Yashel. Struggling herself with depression and anxiety, she heard Malik’s testimony and saw him be baptized. She felt a stirring in her heart and, after the service, approached Pastor Ricardo to say that she too wanted to be baptized and give her life to Jesus.

Malik and Yashel’s stories are vivid reminders of God’s faithfulness—that even in our darkest moments, He reaches out to guide us, bring us hope, and transform our lives.—Submitted

by Pastor Recardo Thompsom

CHURCH LIFE

Pentecost Power at Christ the Way: Lives Transformed in Edmonton At Christ the Way Church in Edmonton, the head elder, Fernando Johnson, conducted a Pentecost 2025 series. Four precious souls were baptized.

In addition, a few months ago, a new couple attended Christ the Way for the first time. They responded to an altar call at the end of the worship service. Bible studies followed with Pastor Natufe.

Jesus Christ set this couple free from addiction. They have now been baptized.

Two more elders have been inspired to conduct evangelistic meetings at Christ the Way in 2026. The church has scheduled these meetings for the spring and fall.

Our lay members are embracing the call to preach the Gospel and invite people to embrace Christ and His message for these last days.

—Submitted by Pastor Lawel Natufe

Elder Fernando Johnson conducting the Pentecost 2025 series.

Baptisms during the impactful Pentecost 2025 series at Christ the Way Church.

...for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with ChrisT (Galatians 3:27 NIV)

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The Strathmore Seventh-day Adventist Church Experiences Dramatic Growth!

The community of Strathmore is located half an hour east of Calgary. The Strathmore Seventh-day Adventist Church was planted there in 2008. At the end of 2024, the congregation had 18 members. The church meets each Sabbath in rented worship space at the Lutheran church.

For several years, Pastor Donald Wright had hoped and prayed that a Bible Worker could be placed in Strathmore. Thanks to a generous estate gift, the Alberta Conference was able to hire Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva as the Strathmore Bible Worker for one year.

Working in conjunction with Pastor Ishamel Ali, our Rural Evangelism Coordinator for Alberta, the congregation prayed earnestly and worked diligently in the community.

This past year, the church conducted several health seminars and other

programs to help meet the needs of people in their community. Pastor Joel conducted Bible studies with dozens of interests in the Strathmore area. Many of these interests came from the “God’s Closet” program, cooking classes, social media, and the Lessons for Living television program.

Many church members gave freely of their time to run these ministries. Members of sister churches in the Calgary area also supported these ministries. Pastor Joel is especially grateful for the help of Fay Mullings. God worked through many church members to touch people’s hearts and show the love of Christ to their neighbours.

The strategy for Pentecost 2025 was to pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, serve the community, and conduct an evangelistic “reaping” event. Evangelist Bill Santos

conducted two weeks of meetings in Strathmore at the end of October 2025.

Twenty non-Adventist guests regularly attended those meetings. We praise the Lord that 19 of these individuals have already been baptized, and the last guest has also requested baptism! Pentecost 2025 initiatives have doubled the membership of the Strathmore church.

Pastor Donald Wright is very grateful for all the church members who came out and supported the meetings. Members from the Airdrie, Chestermere, and Bridgeland churches came faithfully to help the Strathmore members conduct this series. A singing evangelist, Jacob Hunter, came all the way from England and there were people who attended each night just to hear him sing.

(Left) Multiple baptisms by pastor Donald Wright and pastor Bill Santos; (Right) Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva with some visitors at church.

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CHURCH LIFE

(Clockwise) Pastor Bill Santos and Pastor Donald Wright; marriage officiated by

Pastor Donald Wright; Crystal baptism officiated by Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva; Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva and friends.

Having been raised around drugs and alcohol, Crystal experienced significant pain and trauma in her life. Her road to healing began four years ago.

She testified, “God stayed with me through it all. He carried me when I couldn’t carry myself and turned my pain into strength.”

In early 2025, Crystal met Pastor Joel at a program conducted by the Strathmore Seventh-day Adventist Church. Pastor Joel began Bible studies with Crystal and her daughters, Amelia and Aalayia. Recently, Crystal

shared this in her testimony: “How truly powerful these Bible studies have been in my life! Through them, I’ve come to understand more deeply who God is—His endless grace, His love, and His mercy. Learning His Word has opened my eyes and my heart in ways I never imagined. It has given me strength, peace, and purpose. I’m so thankful.”

On Sabbath, October 25, 2025, Crystal was baptized alongside her daughters.

We praise God for what He’s doing in the Strathmore church. We’re so thankful

for the faithful ministry of all the church members and for the diligent efforts of Pastors Donald Wright, Joel Lucas da Silva, Ishmael Ali, and Bill Santos!

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Pastor Jeff Potts, President, Alberta Conference

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(Top photo) Mission Pathfinder Camp 2025; (Left to right) happy Pathfinders;

rock climbing activities; specialization archery.

Ukrainian Church I’d like to share a few stories from the Ukrainian church related to our Pentecost 2025 focus. This year, our emphasis was on the Pathfinder movement, which has been active from the spring to fall 2025.

Last spring, the Pathfinder club began its activities, inviting children and youth to various hands-on and outdoor events—woodworking, hiking, canoeing, climbing, and more. Each meeting gathered between 20 and 50 participants.

In June, the church took part in the Ukrainian Festival, where we presented both our church and the 28 Alberta Adventist News

Pathfinder club. Then, in August, we held a Pathfinder camp as a missionary project—a place where children learned about the movement, biblical principles, and gained new skills.

Mykhailo’s Journey

About a year and a half ago, a young man named Mykhailo started attending our church as a visitor. He had been baptized in the Jewish Messiah Church.

When he came to Calgary, he was looking for the church which celebrated Sabbath, so he came to the UkrainianCanadian Seventh-day Adventist Church. Soon, he

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became involved with the youth team serving in the Pathfinder ministry. His dedication and commitment became an inspiring example to others.

This fall, Mykhailo was highly involved in the Pentecost 2025 project activities, serving as a technical guru and in the youth department. While cooperating so closely with God, he rediscovered Jesus for himself and God revealed His truth. Mykhailo made his public confession of faith and officially joined the Adventist church. The congregation has since chosen him as the deputy director of the newly formed Pathfinder club.

CHURCH LIFE

Eugene’s Story

A 15-year-old girl, Yevheniia, began attending our church last summer because she was interested in the Pathfinder program. Over time, she learned that the Sabbath is the Lord’s day and discovered other biblical truths that touched her heart. She expressed her desire to be baptized in the Seventh- day Adventist Church.

Her family, belonging to another denomination, strongly opposed her decision.

At one point, she told me she would no longer attend church or be baptized, though she still wanted to keep the Sabbath and observe other biblical principles she had discovered.

We didn’t pressure her but promised to pray and invited her to serve as a counselor at the Pathfinder summer camp within the Pentecost Initiative. She agreed.

After camp, she approached me again—this time with renewed conviction—saying she wanted to continue

Bible studies and prepare for baptism. God had made it clear to her, through her ministry and involvement, that this is His church and He wants her here.

all around the camp, not a single drop fell on our campsite. Above our heads, the sun shone brightly—a clear sign of God’s presence and care. When the boy returned home, he excitedly A Family’s Testimony told his mom that God is After the camp ended, I real and that He answers received a call from a mother prayers. His mother was thanking us for organizing deeply touched and said the event. She shared she now wants to attend our that although she and her Ukrainian church in Calgary. husband do not attend any The Pentecost 2025 church, they try to teach Initiative was implemented their son about God—but through the Pathfinder he usually wasn’t interested. camp, which had around 70 During the camp, something participants, more than half remarkable happened. On of whom were not Adventists.

Sabbath, we planned a baptism Since our Ukrainian church but the weather forecast has existed for only two predicted heavy rain all years and is still growing, day. That morning, I shared our team included not only with the young campers the members but also friends of story of Elijah praying for the church who volunteered the rain to stop, saying, “Let’s to serve. Many of them pray that God will hold are now active attendees. back the rain today, so we Several new families have can see if He still hears our also begun coming to prayers as He did Elijah’s.” our worship services.

What followed was a visible — Submitted by Pastor miracle: while it poured rain Viktor Kononenko

(Left to right) Mykhailo’s profession of faith accompanied by Pastor Viktor Kononenko; baptisms.

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CHURCH LIFE

Health, Healing, and Hope Weekend The College Heights Health Ministry team hosted an inspiring Health, Healing, and Hope weekend on November 20-22, 2025, featuring Dr. Chidi Nwaba, a lifestyle medicine doctor from the UK, specializing in a plant-based approach to reversing disease.

D

r. Chidi received specialized medical education at Cambridge University, UCL, and Johns Hopkins University in general surgery, general practice, and lifestyle medicine. His passion is to reverse, improve, or prevent many chronic illnesses including heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and diabetes with his unique program, “Life Colours.”

We were most delighted to welcome our out-of-town guests along with our nonAdventist friends. If you were unable to attend, presentations can be found on the College Heights website YouTube channel.

You can also follow Dr. Chidi on X and YouTube @DrChidiMD or go to drchidi.com.

— Irma Gordey , College Heights Seventh-day Adventist Church, Health Ministry Leader

Each presentation focused on straightforward information dealing with physical, emotional, and spiritual health, ultimately pointing to Jesus and His original design for humanity. It was an immense blessing to have such an amazing speaker share his passion for lifestyle medicine with us. A common response is that we need to have speakers of such calibre more often.

Many positive comments were received from attendees, along with interest in future speakers/events which include personal testimonies of being empowered to implement a lifestyle change. All glory to God! To complement the weekend, we were gifted through the ministry of music by Ubuntu, Burman University Singers, and Red Deer Gospel Chorale. A special thank you to all three groups who so willingly agreed to share their musical talent with us.

An additional highlight was to coordinate It Is Written Canada’s Mike Lemon in filming an interview with Dr. Chidi. We are eagerly anticipating the airing of these episodes.

Dr. Chidi Nwaba sharing a powerful message of faith and wellness during the Health, Healing, and Hope Weekend, hosted by the College Heights Health Ministry.

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CHURCH LIFE

From Games to Gourmet:

AAAA’s Christmas Event Delights 100 Attendees

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hristmas came alive in Red Deer as the Alberta Asian Adventist Association (AAAA) hosted a vibrant celebration blending tradition, culture, and festive cheer. On December 21, 2025, nearly 100 attendees gathered for an unforgettable afternoon of joy, fellowship, and cultural richness.

Children and youth were at the heart of the program, bringing energy and excitement through lively games, soulful singing, and a captivating

Christmas play. Smiles lit up the room as prizes were handed out, and the sound of regional Indian songs added warmth and authenticity to the festive atmosphere.

One of the most meaningful moments of the afternoon was an inspiring sermonette

by Pastor Ishmael Ali, who

Audience sharing the sparkle of the season as they enjoy being part in the Christmas program.

A heartfelt Christmas message by Pastor Ishmael Ali.

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Young song leaders filling the room with Christmas cheer through joyful music.

reminded everyone of the true meaning of Christmas: unity, compassion, and hope.

Guests also enjoyed a lavish spread of authentic Indian cuisine, savouring rich flavors and traditional dishes that made the celebration even more special.

This celebration reflected AAAA’s commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a renewed sense of togetherness.—Rupa Manoj, Red Deer Seventh-day Adventist Church

Attendees immersed in moments that felt truly merry and bright.

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CHURCH LIFE

Adventurers and Pathfinders Investiture Services

I

t was time for action—the flag bearers were ready, marching in place as the Adventurers, Pathfinders, and staff at Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church marched to the melody of Onward, Christian Soldiers, a song that forces a change of position.

It was also the moment that parents and the club’s director had been eagerly awaiting, the moment when their entire focus and attention would be on their children as they prepared to recite their Adventurer Pledge, the Pathfinder Law, and accept their honours and badges that they had worked so diligently to achieve.

“

Nothing is more thrilling than seeing our children using their gifts and talents for God as we prepare them to be leaders in our churches. It is essential to develop a solid children’s ministry program; it provides weekly Sabbath school and other religious activities for our children—not only on Sabbaths— and helps them experience nature and understand God’s creation. We are blessed to have the children’s ministry program as a guideline to assist in organizing our children’s programs.

At Edmonton Central, we have been blessed with dedicated individuals who volunteer their time to organize and sup-

Nothing is more thrilling than seeing our children using their gifts and talents for God as we prepare them to be leaders in our churches.“

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port our children’s programs without wavering. I don’t say that in a proud, self-centred way; I say it with a thankful heart and sincere gratitude to God for using them to inspire and equip our children to find their way in His service.

—Submitted by Ina Martin

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Baptism in Fort McMurray

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riving to Fort McMurray is always a challenge, but especially in the winter. We made the drive up on the weekend of December 12-13, 2025. The cold was intense and the roads demanded caution; but every moment of the journey was worth it.

When a committed Grade 7 student calls—sharing his desire to go all the way with Jesus and asking you to be there—you respond with faithful follow-through.

That Sabbath, Mhateo made the decision to give his life to Jesus and be baptized. Following the morning sermon, I quickly changed into my

baptismal clothes as the church continued singing—voices filled with anticipation for the sacred moment.

Elder Rex led the baptismal vows, and the anticipation was finally over. I stepped into the baptismal pool, Mhateo followed, and then— SPLASH—the moment we had all been waiting for took place.

There is something deeply moving about the baptismal waters, nothing beats the sound of that splash and what it means.

An invitation was then extended to anyone else who felt called to commit their lives fully to Jesus, and two people responded.

It was a cold

Pastor Rob Dorelus baptising Mhateo.

Sabbath outside but inside, the church was filled with warmth, joy, and celebration. — Submitted by Pastor Rob Dorelus

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CHURCH LIFE

Rural Community Harvest celebrated in Sedgewick

O

n November 2, 2025, Sedgewick Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated the end of harvest and Thanksgiving by hosting a rural community harvest supper. We invited our neighbours and friends, and over 100 individuals from the community attended.

We are so thankful for a bountiful harvest and praise God for the opportunity to share with fellow community members.

A Slice of Hope table.

“Now therefore, our God, we thank You and praise Your glorious name” (1 Chronicles 29:13, NKJV).

Har v

es t S

up p e

r

Sedgewick Celebrates Baptism

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edgewick Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated the baptism of Geovanna O’Rourke on November 1, 2025. Pastors Teddy Joseph and Elmer Manzanares co-officiated the service.

Family and friends gathered to witness and support this momentous decision in Geo’s life. She was officially welcomed into our church with gifts and many hugs and handshakes. Geo is a kind and loving child of God, and we are so fortunate to have been a part of this blessed occasion and have her as a member of our church family. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Baptism of Geovanna O’Rourke with Pastor Teddy Joseph and Pastor Elmer Manzanares.

—Submitted by Debi Anderson, Sedgewick Seventh-day Adventist Church SPRING 2026

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Amidst Trials, Beiseker Level Land Churchgoers Persevere T

he congregation of the Beiseker Level Land Seventh-day Adventist Church has faced more than its share of adversity in recent years, beginning with an act of arson on December 20, 2023, that destroyed their historic church building. In spite of their suffering, the community came together, swiftly organizing services and potlucks at the hall next door. They were very thankful for the backup venue, which had all the necessary amenities. However, because of the fire, the disconnection of water and power meant they would have to wait a few weeks. In the meantime,

the close-knit farming community gathered in each other’s homes.

Despite the challenges, this tenacious group thrived, transforming the old hall into a bustling centre. All the while, building proposals moved forward and everyone was a part of the meticulously planned rebuild on the former church grounds. Work began in August 2025, and seeing fresh developments each week is a continued source of inspiration and hope for them.

Besides weekly church services, the hall also hosted events such as funerals, baptism prep, business

meetings, and even a polling station for the 2025 municipal elections. Fun activities included a corn roast, board game night, and a tractorpulled wagon ride followed by snacks and hot drinks indoors. Keeping abreast of the signs of the times, they held a Pale Horse Rides prophecy video series as it is evident that Bible predictions are rapidly coming to fruition.

On November 9, 2025, the Slice of Hope fundraiser took place. About 100 people from different backgrounds, religions, and churches enjoyed homemade pies and a visual presentation about the church’s 115-year history,

New Level Land church building under construction.

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Photo by Doreen Zyderveld-Hagel

“

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For no one can lay any

Women’s Christmas dinner at the Level Land hall.

foundation other than

Christmas food bank hamper donations at the Level Land hall.

including the Adventist school that taught many children over the years.

December 7 was the annual women’s Christmas dinner. Approximately 25 local women met to socialize and enjoy scrumptious vegetarian food. December 20 saw a wonderful Christmas program featuring a pageant by the pre-schoolers. And then one week later, disaster struck once again.

During a16-hour power outage, pipes burst in the cold and flooded the hall.

A church member found water-damaged sections of the entrance, restrooms, and food prep area. They were thankful Photos by Doreen Zyderveld-Hagel

the one we for the insurance coverage, but it was still quite a blow.

A restoration company addressed the damage with help from various trades.

Within two weeks, they had made the building safe enough to use for worship services.

The hall won’t be fully operational again for a few months, and the congregation is hoping the new church building will be ready by the early part of summer 2026.

For now, they must roll with the punches, suited up in the armour of God. —Submitted

by Doreen Zyderveld-Hagel, Communications Secretary, Beiseker Level Land Seventhday Adventist Church

already have—Jesus Christ.

(1 Corinthians 3:11 NLT)

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United in Song and Celebration

Edmonton Central Church senior choir and children’s choir engaged in a Christmas concert, accompanied with the choir director Napoleon Quintanilla.

Choir members, family, and friends getting together for Christmas dinner on December 27, 2025.

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CHURCH LIFE

Edmonton Central is Growing T here has been a notable rise in attendance at Edmonton Central Seventhday Adventist Church over the last four years. Our congregation has experienced significant growth, with Sabbath services consistently averaging between 360 and 400 attendees. Generations of families have been migrating here over the years and have chosen Edmonton Central as their home church. We’ve also noticed growth in our children’s department, with the number of young new believers multiplying. One of the most beautiful sights on Sabbath mornings is

seeing the large crowd of children gathering for their story time. This reminds us of how quickly our children’s community has expanded.

It is also a reminder that we are a global church, on the move, and we are constantly in contact with people from different parts of the world.

We are all children of God, but we also have an obligation to relate to people simply because they are human beings, whether in the faith or not.

Our journey over the past four years has been challenging, of course.

However, as God’s children, we understand that we are

not exempt from challenges and struggles. It is also essential that we acknowledge the significant role our personal relationships with God play in our spiritual growth as a congregation.

One of the most beautiful verses in the Bible is found in Acts 2:47 where we are told, “The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (NIV). On a final note, as we continue to model a positive, caring attitude in our church and community, may we remain a stabilizing force in our society, confident that God will continue to draw people to His kingdom.

— Submitted by Ina Martin, communication co-ordinator, Edmonton Central Seventh- day Adventist Church

Members posed together for a photograph at the Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church after a Sabbath worship service.

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Alberta Adventist News

41

CHURCH LIFE

Immitating Christ by

Serving Others A

s Seventh-day Adventists, we practice an ordinance of humility—before we come to the Lord’s table—by washing each other’s feet. Foot washing was an example set for us by Jesus. We are called to imitate Christ by serving others. As I proceeded to wash someone’s feet during our last communion session a few months ago, my thoughts reflected on one of my most vivid memories of the ordinance of humility from my teenage years. On that specific Sabbath, my grandmother oversaw my care.

Even more so, I was going to be her partner in the footwashing service. She knew and realized that I was not very pleased with that decision, as evidenced by my immediate reaction. However, I was taken aback by her unexpected response to my rebellious attitude. Instead of schooling me, she prioritized my needs.

The Lord knew that one of His very own—sitting at the table—had planned to

42 Alberta Adventist News

betray Him. But despite this knowledge, Jesus treated Judas with the same love and kindness He offered to His other disciples. I believe Jesus washed all His disciples’ feet, including Judas’.

Unfortunately, that gesture of love did not alter Judas’ evil intention. What makes Judas such a solitary figure in his despair is that for three years, he walked, talked, and ate with Jesus, but it was not enough to be positively influenced by His love and compassion.

As I expected to see disapproval look on my grandmother’s face, instead I saw understanding, kindness, and love. She was going to be patient, guiding me and prioritizing my needs. I was touched by her calm approach to my behaviour. I was very blessed to have had her in my life. Although we cannot compel our children to believe in God, we can use our influence to point them to Him.

— Submitted by Ina Martin, Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church

SPRING 2026

Communion led by Pastor David Hamstra and Pastor David Guzman

Join the HAYSTACKS CLUB on to participate.

The annual Camp Meeting 5K is taking place at 9AM Sunday morning in front of the Camp Office. Participants are encouraged to register in advance.

Join the Alberta Conference Step Challenge and see which church takes the most steps/member.

Anyone can participate.

Submit your Camp Meeting step count totals for a chance to win a prize for your church and bragging rights for the year.

Earn bonus credit for your church by completing a 5K Walk/Run during Step Challenge

albertaadventist.ca/CM2026

week.

Join the Haystacks group to participate in the bonus challenge.

SPRING 2026

Alberta Adventist News

43

CHURCH LIFE

Edmonton Filipino is Growing A

story of faith, perseverance, and unity as youth and young adults come together through music to support their church’s hopes for a church building.

It was mid-winter 2024 in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, when an idea began to grow among the youth and young adult leaders of the Edmonton Filipino Seventh-day Adventist Church. As we faced the challenge of fundraising for a long-anticipated church building of our own, the thought of hosting a choral Christmas concert sparked a small but meaningful sense of hope.

For a church without a consistent choir, and with youth and young adults balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, the idea felt

ambitious. Still, the willingness and enthusiasm of a few leaders set everything in motion. What began as a simple hope to contribute something toward the building fund would unfold over eight months of planning, perseverance, and faith.

By January 2025, a small team of young adults had formed to bring the program to life.

Songs were selected, rehearsal schedules were created, and youth and young adults throughout the church were invited to participate. Every contribution mattered—whether through singing or serving in other capacities. By April, a humble choir of about twenty singers had begun rehearsing.

The system was far from perfect and attendance fluctuated—as expected for a group made up of students and working

Naomi Batiancila conducting the Edmonton Filipino Youth and Young Adult Choir at the concert venue on December 20, 2025

44 Alberta Adventist News

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young adults. Yet despite these challenges, the determination of the group carried us forward.

Throughout the spring and summer months, rehearsals continued amid constantly changing schedules, summer plans, and church and conference commitments. Flexibility became essential. Progress was not always linear, but through consistency and encouragement each member grew—not only in musical ability, but also in confidence. Over time, a strong bond formed within the choir, grounded in shared effort and purpose.

As September arrived, so did a renewed motivation to finish strong. With everyone back in the city, rehearsals increased to three times a week—Wednesday evenings, Fridays before Vespers, and Saturdays after church. By

The EDFIL YYA choir and crew after the concert, which includes pianist, narrators, stagehands, audio-visual team, and lighting. this point, the singers were comfortable with the repertoire, and musical cohesion became a focus. Additional youth and young adults stepped in to support the program—a pianist was brought in, narrators were recruited, and AV and stage crews were assembled— all from within our church family. What had started as a small initiative had grown into a true youth department effort, with support pouring in from across the church in countless and invaluable ways.

On December 19, 2025, the night before the concert, we gathered for our final dress rehearsal. Prayers were offered, last-minute details were attended to, and nerves ran high. Then, as the evening of December 20 arrived and the familiar music began, a sense of calm settled over us. As we sang through the program we had spent countless hours preparing, the choir moved together as one—from the first note to the final practiced hold.

Applause filled the sanctu-

Eva Alarba, Naomi Batiancila, Francis Biton, Lyndon Alarba, Hershey Fiedacan, and Summer Fiedacan—the leaders and planning team behind it all.

ary, and a wave of relief and bittersweet joy washed over us: gratitude for what had been accomplished, and disbelief that the journey had come to an end.

Words of thanks were shared, and the program prepared to close following prayer by our head elder. Before the conclusion, he announced that the freewill offering had reached just under $5,000 and encouraged the congregation to help bring it to that full amount. Because the concert had run smoothly and ended earlier than expected, he sensed there was more to give and invited the choir to sing again, allowing the congregation additional time to contribute.

Three impromptu songs later, the total had risen to nearly $8,000—ending the evening on an incredible high note.

The following week, at the church’s year-end social, the choir offered a few final performances. With another appeal, the total raised through this col-

lective effort reached just over $10,000. In the earliest stages of planning, we would have been grateful for $2,000—to witness $10,000 raised was nothing short of the Holy Spirit at work.

We praise God for His goodness.

What began as a hope to raise even a small amount became a powerful testimony of what He can do when His people step forward in faith. This experience stands as a reminder of what is possible when God’s people come together, and when the youth and young adults of the church unite for a shared purpose: to further His work and to glorify His name.

We thank God for His steadfast guidance throughout our efforts to present Fear Not: The Quiet Work of Heaven, and we look forward with hope as we plan another year of music—praying that we may continue to be a blessing to all those we encounter.

—Submitted by Naomi Gem Batiancila

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Alberta Adventist News

45

SCHOOL NEWS

Elias Mykat (left) and Kenyon Bull (right) displaying the special blankets and eagle feathers they received from their nations while MANS principal Kim Harrington beams above the Treaty 6 medallion bestowed in the presence of honoured guests from Ermineskin Cree Nation and Louis Bull Tribe.

Maskwacis Community Responds to MANS With Special Honour

O

n January 17, Chief Joel Mykat (Ermineskin) presented MANS principal Kim Harrington with a Treaty 6 medallion.

The presentation was made during a dinner arranged by Ermineskin Cree Nation and the Louis Bull Tribe of Maskwacis to celebrate the victorious return of Elias Mykat (Ermineskin) and Kenyon Bull (Louis Bull) from Abu Dhabi, where they accepted a $150,000 USD Zayed Sustainability Award on behalf of Mamawi Atosketan Native School.

This rare and significant honour denotes a special relationship, one that the giver intends will go on and on.

The medallion depicts a handshake between a representative of the Crown and an Indigenous chief with the words “As long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and the river flows” inscribed around the perimeter. The inscription is taken from Treaty 6, signed in 1876 between the chiefs of the area and the government of Canada as

46 Alberta Adventist News

SPRING 2026

BY LYNN McDOWELL

Director of Planned Giving/Philanthropy, Alberta Conference

representative of Queen Victoria of England.

Chief Wilton Littlechild (Ermineskin), one of Canada’s most accomplished Indigenous leaders, delivered an 11-minute speech elaborating on the significance of their achievement in earning the attention of the world with their winning project’s focus on sustainability through hydroponic gardening.

Littlechild, whose personal honours include being a Companion of the Order of Canada, Alberta Order of Excellence, one of three Commissioners who led the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and architect of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, also emphasized the role the MANS students are playing in carrying forward the Cree tradition and sacred duty to care for the Earth and all living things.

SCHOOL NEWS

Shock and elation: Maskwacis school wins international sustainability prize

M

amawi Atosketan Native School (MANS) — an independent Christian school located between Ponoka and Maskwacis —has been recognized on the global stage for its innovation towards a more sustainable future.

Two students and two adult representatives flew to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to represent MANS at the 2026 Zayed Sustainability Prize Award ceremony on Jan. 13. The shock and elation was clear on the faces on the MANS delegation as they absored the news that they had won the $150,000 USD prize in the ‘Global High Schools — The Americas’ category. — By Emily Jaycox

The team from Mamawi Atosketan Native School reacts to hearing they’d won on Jan. 13, in Abu Dhabi.

Published 12:15 pm Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

Read more at: https://ponokanews.com/2026/01/14/shock-and-elation-maskwacis-school-wins-international-sustainability-prize/

New Weight Room Helps Students Get Fit For Life

O

nce again, a partnership between a knowledgeable community member and a visionary donor is helping students live their best and healthiest lives. Alumnus Joshua Saddleback, a veteran body builder and competitive power lifter, advised on the weight and equipment for the new facility located off the high school gym to help beginning lifters build strength without injury. Donor and long-time MANS supporter Marjorie Dubuc stepped up to partner in the project because she loves “giving to a school where students are taught respect and the love of Jesus.”—By Lynn McDowell, Director | Planned Giving & Trust Services/Philanthropy, Alberta Conference SPRING 2026

Alberta Adventist News

47

SCHOOL NEWS

Chinook Winds Adventist Academy Christmas Concert:

A Night Carried by Faith and Shared Purpose T

he 2025 Christmas concert brought worship, joy, and purpose into one shared night. The room filled with quiet anticipation before the first note sounded. Parents took their seats. Students waited backstage. Volunteers moved through final checks.

A shared sense of reverence settled in as the program began. This gathering marked more than a seasonal event. It reflected a community shaped by faith, discipline, and care for one another. Music and drama carried the story of Christ’s birth with clarity and intention. Voices blended with focus. Scenes unfolded with calm confidence. Lighting and sound supported each transition. Every element reflected hours of preparation, prayer, and teamwork.

Students stepped forward with courage. Staff and volunteers served with consistency.

Each contribution mattered.

The evening honoured God through collective effort and visible unity.

This concert carried a clear mission focus. Attention extended beyond the auditorium to El Salvador.

In March 2026, 20 students and 9 chaperones will

48 Alberta Adventist News

Through strong leadership and teamwork, the concert reflected faith in action and a community united in purpose.

Students shared the story of Christ’s birth with confidence, unity, and heartfelt worship.

travel to serve at ECAS in El Salvador to help renovate the boys’ dormitory. This work will enhance safety, dignity, and quality of life for students who live on campus. The mission trip stands as an expression of faith lived through service, and the concert played a direct role in advancing this work.

Generosity found a joyful outlet during the Sweet Treats and Cake Auction. Families prepared baked goods with care. Students promoted the fundraiser with pride. Guests responded with enthusiasm. The evening raised $1,735 toward the mission trip.

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“

“

This night carried added significance.

The program came together during a season without a full-time music teacher, yet progress did not stall.

Each purchase and donation reflected shared responsibility and trust. Support extended beyond words into action.

This night carried added significance. The program came together during a season without a full-time music teacher, yet progress did not stall. Staff stepped beyond assigned roles.

Volunteers filled gaps with flexibility. Students practiced with focus and perseverance.

Leadership remained steady.

Cooperation shaped every rehearsal and decision. What unfolded on stage reflected resilience rooted in shared purpose. Gratitude marked the heart of the evening.

Pastor Ashia Lennon provided consistent leadership from the earliest planning stages through the final performance. We are grateful for Mrs. Anna Tepfer; her dedication anchored the vision and carried the team forward. Drama students grew through her guidance.

Music instruction reached every grade level. Long hours

SCHOOL NEWS

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when

The Sweet Treats and Cake Auction brought joyful generosity to the evening.

Families and guests enthusiastically supported the mission trip to El Salvador.

of rehearsal, coordination, and encouragement shaped the program as a whole.

As the final note faded, a shared awareness remained.

The message of Emmanuel stood at the center. God is with us. Faith found expression through service, effort, and unity. The concert concluded, yet its purpose continued. The mission moves forward, carried by students prepared to serve and a community committed to walking in faith together.

—Submitted by Pastor Ashia Lennon

he is old, he will not depart from it.

(Proverbs 22:6 KJV)

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Alberta Adventist News

49

DEVOTIONAL

is the most excellent way

A REFLECTION ON 1 CORINTHIANS 13 AND THE POWER OF DIVINE LOVE

BY PASTOR RYAN BROUSSON

J

esus said in Matthew 22:37–40 that all the law and the prophets hang on two commandments: to love God and love others. These are the greatest commandments.

Paul echoes this truth in 1 Corinthians 13, reminding us that love is not one virtue among many, but the foundation of all true righteousness. Think of someone gifted and admired—wise, eloquent, generous, full of faith.

Yet, if they lack love, their gifts become hollow. Paul says plainly: without love, we are nothing.

For followers of Jesus, love is not optional or secondary—it

50 Alberta Adventist News

is the core reality of God’s character and the true mark of the Christian life. 1 Corinthians 13 describes not sentimental affection but other-centred love that defines the Christian life and reveals the heart of God.

“Without love, I am nothing” (vv 1-3)

Paul begins by dismantling the Corinthian fascination with spiritual gifts, eloquence, prophecy, and faith. These are good things, but if these good things are not grounded in love, they become empty noise— hollow and self-serving. Love is not just one attribute among many for God or the reality He has created. It is the foundation and core of who God is (1 John 4:8) and what He desires for

SPRING 2026

His creation. So our church attendance, ministry, and even martyrdom are meaningless unless they are expressions of self-giving love. It matters why we do something, and if the why is not love, it falls short of God’s character.

“

Love is not just one attribute among many for God or the reality He has created. It is the foundation and core of who God is (1 John 4:8) and what He desires for His creation.”

“Love is patient, kind…” (vv 4-7)

Paul doesn’t define love abstractly; he describes how it behaves. Every verb is active.

Love waits. Love serves. Love does not manipulate, boast, or demand its own way. Love is about giving of oneself for the betterment of others, just like Christ did. Christ acted out love, and He calls us to be His disciples and follow in His loving footsteps. Love is not sentimental, it is active service to those around us.

Moreover, love’s endurance is not passive. It bears all things because it believes all things—rooted in hope. This love is not blind to evil but refuses to be conquered by it.

It refuses to retaliate, insists on the good, and chooses to keep loving even when love is rejected. This is the kind of love God pours into us through the Spirit (Rom. 5:5), the kind we are called to reflect in our relationships and communities.

“Love never fails” (vv 8-13)

All spiritual gifts will cease.

Knowledge will pass away. But love endures because it alone is eternal. Why? Because love is not merely a tool for ministry— it is the very essence of God. When we see God face to face, faith and hope will be fulfilled, but love will remain because God is love. Love is the centre of all theology, all

ministry, and all that it means to be a follower of God. If love endures forever, then learning to love is life itself.

What drives your theology, your ministry, your relationships? If it’s not love— patient, humble, enduring love—then it’s time to pivot to the more excellent way. Love is not one path among many.

It is the path of Christ, the very heart of God, and our calling. As a people awaiting Christ’s soon return, we are called to reflect His love in a world desperate for hope.

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Alberta Adventist News

51

PHOTO SUBMISSIONS

THANK YOU T For your beautiful photo submissions!

Urban Deer

by Sikhethiwe Msimanga

Near Carbon village, Alberta

by James Astleford

God’s beautiful full moon on the horizon

by Candace Phillips

52 Alberta Adventist News

hese photo submissions capture the beauty of God’s creation and places rich with memories, inspiration, and peace. While we couldn’t display every entry due to space, we’re grateful to everyone who has shared their photos and warmly encourage future contributions.

—The Editorial team

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A slice of Heaven

by Laura Filion

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Alberta Adventist News

53

Have you been losing sleep at

Foothills Camp & Retreat Centre?

70

There are weary and worn-out mattresses in the lodge and cabins that desperately need to be replaced.

$50,000

We need your help to raise to give you a comfortable place to rest your head!

So please don’t just lie there...

to help put an end to sleepless nights!

Don’t hesitate to

bed-azzle

us with your generosity.

FOOTHILLSCAMP.CA

54 Alberta Adventist News

SPRING 2026

Any contribution you make would be a dream come true!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

JULY 10-18, 2026 For more information go to qr.albertaadventist.ca/CM2026

Avoid disappointment Reserve NOW

“NO COST” WILLS at Foothills Camp

Wills@Camp Classic Lawyer-drafted Will

• 2 appointments required • $100 rebate means No Cost to You! To make an appointment for your “No Cost” Will or a no cost, no obligation Personal Charitable Life Annuity Calculation, contact Rupa Manoj at (587) 815-8776 or rmanoj@ albertaadventist.ca

SPRING 2026

Alberta Adventist News

55

ANNOUNCEMENTS We Welcome Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva and his wife Lucy to the Fort McMurray Church On January 1, 2026, we welcomed Pastor Joel Lucas da Silva as the new pastor of the Fort McMurray church.

Pastor Joel and his wife Lucy Magatti had been living in the Calgary area for the past year, where Joel was a Bible Worker in Strathmore, and Lucy was teaching Bible at Chinook Winds Adventist Academy. Pastor Joel had an enjoyable and productive year in Strathmore, where he studied the Bible with dozens of people, many of whom he had the privilege of baptizing.

Pastor Joel and Lucy hail from Brazil. They have two adult children, Ronnie Andrew (Calgary), and Kemilie Nathi (USA). Joel started out as a teacher right after graduating from the Adventist University of Sao Paulo (UNASP) with a bachelor’s degree in pastoral theology. He was ordained in Brazil, where he served as a pastor for over 10 years. After serving for several years, Pastor Joel went on to lead a 1,000-member district in Cotia, a suburb of São Paulo. There, he had the joy of baptizing nearly 200 people in two years!

So that he might serve better, Joel went back to school to pursue a master’s in public health in Mexico with an emphasis on family relationships. Additionally, Joel took a course in church planting in Lincoln, Neb., where he learned the importance of community outreach.

In addition to pastoring, Joel has served as a professional mentor and consultant.

Lucy is an accomplished teacher, and she is currently completing a master’s in education.

She loves working with young people!

The theme of Pastor Joel’s ministry has always been loving and serving people. He believes all Christians must develop their identity in Christ and that all members and visitors should have their need for acceptance, belonging, and purpose fulfilled when coming to church.

We welcome Pastor Joel and Lucy to Fort McMurray. We’re delighted to have them on our Alberta Conference team!

Want to be

Baptised — C O N TA C T Y O U R L O C A L PA S T O R — 56 Alberta Adventist News

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Michael Willing to Replace Llew Werner at the AB Conference Office For more than 12 years, Llew Werner has served faithfully as our Director of Risk Management and Project Development. We’re very grateful for the significant contributions Llew has made to the mission of the Alberta Conference over the years. Llew is now preparing for retirement.

He will spend the next few months preparing Michael Willing to take over his responsibilities.

We welcome Michael to his new role. He has served 14 years as an educator in the Alberta

and enjoy taking on projects that require both strategic planning and practical problem-solving.

I live in Ponoka County with my wife, Tawnya, and our two amazing kids, Ethan and Bella. When I’m not working, you’ll find me fixing things, tinkering with engines, skiing down the slopes, or spending time out on the lake. I love staying active and making the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.”

Welcome, Michael!

Conference, most recently as the principal of Mamawi Atosketan Native School (MANS). As of January 1, 2026, Michael has transitioned from Mamawi to the Alberta Conference office.

We asked Michael to introduce himself to our Alberta Conference members and say a few words about his new role. This is what he wrote: “I’m Michael Willing, and I’m excited to be stepping into a new role in the Project Development and Risk Management department at the Alberta Conference.

I’m passionate about property management

Introducing Our New Associate Youth Director and Summer Camp Director Neil Peralta joins us from the British Columbia Conference with a heartfelt passion for youth and young adults—while embracing ministry as a fully multigenerational calling. He loves engaging in community outreach, planning youth events, and serving in both summer camp and club ministries. Neil dedicated nine years to Mountain View Summer Camp as the assistant director and sports leader.

Much of Neil’s ministry experience comes from serving as a school pastor at Deer Lake, Avalon, and Peace Christian School. He has also served as associate pastor of the Rutland church and lead pastor in Port Hardy, BC. In addition, he has served several churches in Northern BC, including Hazelton, Smithers, Burns Lake, and most recently, the Chetwynd Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Neil is blessed to share life and ministry with his supportive and loving wife, Marlene, who shares his passion for reaching young

people and introducing them to Jesus.

Together, they feel called to a special mission: helping the next generation experience a meaningful, loving relationship with Christ.

The Alberta Conference family extends a warm welcome to Neil and Marlene. We are excited for their arrival and look forward to all God will do through their ministry in this new chapter.

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Alberta Adventist News

57

MEANS & MEANING

Anyone Can Give for Big Impact

If you think Planned Giving is for the rich and sophisticated, think again

BY LYNN MCDOWELL

F

ive simple tools are making a big impact in the Alberta church.* In this issue, we’ll look at one: wills—what the Alberta Conference does to support people through the wills process and the huge contribution everyday people are making through the oldest of planned gifts.

Wills are Essential If you’ve known someone who passed away without a will, you probably know it added work and stress to dealing with their earthly goods. That in itself is a good enough reason to make a will no matter how much or how little you have.

58 Alberta Adventist News

In the stewardship sense, however, having a will takes on added importance. It helps save money in most cases and it allows you to do good—to “give back” to God, to family and your community, and to acknowledge the importance of those relationships.

Giving Back is Simple Designate any percentage you wish to people, charities, and God. Many consider the conference a natural choice, as they recognize the church as carrying out God’s work and a community that has enriched their lives.

Common considerations on how much to give include: tithe on overall

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increase (reflection on God’s gifts); conference treated as an additional “child” (“Charity Child”); designating or “restricting” the use of the money for a project or ministry that is meaningful to you.

How the Conference Supports Members in the Will Making Process Free consultation is available year-round for Alberta church members.

Many resources are posted on the Planned Giving page of the albertaadventist. ca website to help you get familiar with the process and help you to think about what you want.

In addition, there are three Alberta Conference programs tailored to individual needs and preferences: 1.

Year-round lawyerdrafted wills (limited reimbursement)

2.

If will instructions are given through the PGTS Office outside of camp meeting a. Instructions are sent to the lawyer of member’s choice and b. The conference can reimburse $200 for an individual, $300 for a couple

3.

4.

Online Wills (Epilogue, through the Alberta Conference website—for simple situations only) a. Automatically receive a 20% discount off Epilogues’ regular fee b. Option to add Personal Directive and Enduring Power of Attorney documents c. Discount or Free Will discount QR codes are sometimes available Wills @ Camp program, available during Alberta Camp Meeting only

a.

Two in-person meetings at Foothills Camp (different days: one to give instructions, one to sign with lawyer) b. No cost: $100 lawyer fee reimbursed by conference

Check out what church members have done in the box below. This doesn’t include gifts that were given directly to individual congregations, so the contribution to God’s work is actually bigger than the box (left) shows!

DID YOU KNOW?

IMPACT OF PLANNED GIFTS

Dozens of Alberta ministries and congregations receive funds to continue serving.

Example: Past 5 Years Direct Fundraising for Maskwacis Outreach: MANS Projects, Programs

$1 Million +

VIEW CAMP MEETING 2025 VIDEOS TO SEE OTHER TOOLS

$1.93 Million

MAC Building Fund

Compare to: Past 5 Years Gifts in Wills (A type of Planned Gift)

$1.82 Million*

*Does not include gifts specified for local church congregations

Lynn McDowell, JD, CSPG

Director of Planned Giving | Philanthropy Alberta Conference (403) 342-5044 Direct Line (587) 815-8785

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Alberta Adventist News

59

ADVENTURERS FAMILY CAMP 2026

June 5-7

2026

Foothills Camp

Keynote Speaker

Nwamiko Madden Certain Sound Media

For more information visit clubministries.albertaadventist.ca/events/family-camp-2026