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OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY IN NORTH AMERICA

Telling Our Story SPRING 2017 www.regionalconferenceministry.com

AGENTS OF CHANGE

THE #ItIsTimeAU PARTICIPANTS SPEAK TRUTH TO POWER ***

PELC SESSIONS BRING INSPIRATION

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CITY TEMPLE CHURCH IN DETROIT CONTINUES PAN AFRICAN PARTNERSHIP

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COMMENTARY Published by the Office for Regional Conference Ministry in the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists 7000 Adventist Boulevard Huntsville, Alabama 35896 Telephone (256) 830-5002 www.regionalconferenceministry.com PUBLISHER JAMES L. LEWIS EDITOR KYNA HINSON ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER HOWARD I. BULLARD COPY EDITOR CLARISE J. NIXON CONSULTANTS PHYLLIS WARE LEE, ELAINE ALLSTON EDITORIAL For all correspondence and letters to the editors, write: OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY 7000 Adventist Boulevard Huntsville, Alabama 35896 or fax to (256) 830-5078 We reserve the right to publish and edit your submissions and letters. REGIONAL CONFERENCE OFFICES ALLEGHENY EAST CONFERENCE HENRY J. FORDHAM III, PRESIDENT LaTasha Hewitt, Communications Director P.O. Box 266 Pine Forge, PA 19548 (610) 326-4610. www.myalleghenyeast.org ALLEGHENY WEST CONFERENCE WILLIAM COX, PRESIDENT Bryant L. Smith, Communications Director 1339 E. Broad Street Columbus, OH 43205 (614) 252-5271. www.awconf.org CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE ROGER BERNARD, PRESIDENT Brittany Winkfield, Communications Director 3301 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66104 (913) 371-1071. www.central-states.org LAKE REGION CONFERENCE R. CLIFFORD JONES, PRESIDENT Paul Young, Communications Director 8517 South State Street Chicago, IL 60619 (773) 846-2661. www.lakeregionsda.org NORTHEASTERN CONFERENCE DANIEL LAMARTINE HONORÉ, PRESIDENT JeNean A. Lendor, Communications Director 115-50 Merrick Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11434 (718) 291-8006. www.northeastern.org NORTH PACIFIC UNION CONFERENCE ALPHONSO MCCARTHY, VICE PRESIDENT 5709 N. 20th Street Ridgefield, WA 98642 (360) 857-7000. www.npuc.org PACIFIC UNION CONFERENCE VIRGIL CHILDS, DIRECTOR African American Ministries 2686 Townsgate Road Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 413-7100. www.puconline.org SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE WILLIAM L. WINSTON, PRESIDENT Carl McRoy Communications Director 294 Hamilton E. Holmes Drive, NW Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 792-0535. www.southatlantic.org SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE BENJAMIN JONES, PRESIDENT Michael Harpe, Communications Director 715 Youngs Lane Nashville, TN 37207 (615) 226-6500. www.scc-adventist.org SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE GREGORY O. MACK, PRESIDENT Bryant Taylor, Communications Director 1701 Robie Avenue Mt. Dora, FL 32757 (352) 735-3142. www.secsda.org SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE CALVIN WATKINS, PRESIDENT Taryan Ramsarran, Communications Director 2215 Lanark Avenue Dallas, TX 75203 (214) 943-4491. www.southwestregion. adventistchurchconnect.org 2015 REGIONAL DIRECTORS/COORDINATORS ROSTER Virgil Childs Director | Regional Ministries | Pacific Union Conference Cell: 909-225-6438 | bmitchell@puconline.org Kingsley Palmer V.P. African American Dept. Arizona Conference Cell 775-338-0858 | genx58@gmail.com Frederick Anderson Coordinator | African American Ministries | Central California Conference 831-262-3838 | famar@sbcglobal.net O’Neil Madden Coordinator | African American Dept | Nevada-Utah Conference Cell 702-875-5979 | pastoromadden@aol.com Dr. George King V.P. Black Ministries | Southeastern California Conference (909) 202-0147 | kinggm@seccsda.org Royal Harrison Director | G.L.A.R. | Southern California Conference 503-819-1498 | hroyal2@yahoo.com

LESSONS FROM HILLARY’S LOSS

here’s been a great deal of speculation and examination since the November 2016, U.S Presidential elections—probably the most heart and gut-wrenching examinations by Secretary Clinton herself. And while we may not have been privy to her campaign’s inner circle and strategic advisors, we may offer assessments in light of the sad results. 1. She wouldn’t listen to Bill. Whatever Clinton may think of her husband, and whatever the state of their Kyna Hinson marriage, irrespective of the major hurdles they have faced—he did once hold the office she so coveted. President William J. Clinton ran two successful campaigns for this, the highest office in the land, so surely he knew at least a few things about running. He mastered making connections with citizens across social classes and economic lines and welcomed them all. He could also take complicated public policy matters such as budgets and the economy, and make them understandable in a State of the Union Address or a late-night talk show. He could have helped her explain her choices regarding her government emails beginning years ago. She and all of her predecessors who had access to this technology may not have shown the best judgment in using multiple servers, but they were aiming for speed and efficiency, not illegality. 2. She didn’t learn from Barak and Biden. President Barak Obama also ran two absolutely brilliant, successful U.S Presidential campaigns. One observer noted that there are about 2,200 voting districts in the United States, and he covered most of them during his campaigns and presidency. President Obama also had the golden touch—in relating to others all over this country and the world, and in fundraising that garnered hundreds of millions of dollars. He mastered a rare secret: that many modest contributions from everyday supporters (and not cultivating only millionaires, billionaires and celebrities) could build a war chest strong enough to wage any campaign battle. He used his gifts of powerful oratory and dignity to bring hope, comfort and inspiration. Sec. Clinton could have learned—less entitlement, less elitism, less hostility—more grace. And finally, she could have learned from Vice President Joe Biden, who grew up in the hardscrabble community of Scranton, Pennsylvania. He never forgot the place or the people. He often returned, not only to campaign, but to fellowship. If Sec. Clinton had listened to more of her “ground troops” and visited more of the Rust Belt instead of visiting mainly the Gold Coasts, matters may have turned more in her favor. She has been in the public eye long enough to have established projects such as small computer kiosks in every poor community across the nation—with volunteer or paid support systems to help every child read better and learn better and prepare properly for better lives. Instead, she consigned them all to the Basket of Deplorables—forgetting they had votes. Now don’t you relax either. Did you think this was just about politics? Hardly. Many of us African American Adventists have obtained great educations that qualify us for wonderful careers—but what about those we know who are still in Rust Belts across the land? Here’s what Ellen White had to say about this: Who is to blame for the deficiency in the churches? Who is to be censured because willing hands and zealous hearts have not been educated to labor in a humble way for the Master? There is much undeveloped talent among us. Many individuals might be laboring in towns and cities, visiting from house to house, becoming acquainted with families, entering into their social life, dining at their tables, entering into conversation by their firesides, dropping the precious seeds of truth all along the line. As they exercise their talents, Christ will give them wisdom, and many believers will be found rejoicing in the knowledge of the truth as a result of their labors. Thousands might be getting a practical education in the work by this personal labor. {RH July 9, 1895, par. 5}. A Vacation Bible School here; a Branch Sabbath School there. Soup and sandwiches distributed on cold Sabbath afternoons. Has it been a while for you and for me? It’s something to think about, isn’t it? t Kyna Hinson, Editor _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Special thanks for research and verification to Ms. Barbara Stovall and Vice Director Tim Poirier of the Ellen G. White Estate, Inc.

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#ITISTIMEAU A speaker for Black History Month 2017 riled a segment of the Andrews University audience—who then complained. When the administration offered an official, ill-fated apology, this group offered a swift, skillful, effective rebuke via social media. View them on YouTube and read their words here.

ANDREWS UNIVERSITY— FORMAL RESPONSE In answer to the #ItIsTimeAU video, Andrews University top administrators, leaders and students offered apologies, acknowledgement, compassion and viable strategies.

BEST PRACTICES— LEADERSHIP REGIONAL NEWS Southeastern Conference leaders gather to take an exciting look at data on the society we want to win for Christ, including current trends and projections on how to build solid plans for church growth.

By Dwayne O’Neil Robinson

BEST PRACTICES—PAN AFRICAN BRIDGE-BUILDING CITY TEMPLE CHURCH WELCOMES THE BAKERS This Detroit congregation welcomes Drs. Delbert and Susan Baker of Adventist University of Africa, strengthening this unique bond.

Interview of Elder Samuel Thomas, Jr. By Dr. Victoria Joiner

PELC REPORT The 2016 sessions brought inspiration, new classes, techniques serious use of social media.

Text and Photography By LaTasha Hewitt

BEST PRACTICES— MILLENNIALS A Message to Millennials— We’re Missing You! This General Conference Vice President shares concerns, research results, and examines belief systems. She also offers encouragement to Seventh-day Adventist youth.

OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY IN NORTH AMERICA

Telling Our Story SPRING 2017 www.regionalconferenceministry.com

Interview of Dr. Ella Simmons By Tim Allston

Our Cover brings you the courageous team of Andrews University students who dared to challenge a racist, hostile environment—and moved the mountain. #ItIsTimeAU

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE SHERWIN

BEST PRACTICES— EVANGELISM

Why Black Men Don’t Attend Church— Conclusion Learn what keeps many men out of churches, and what appeals to them on multiple levels.

Perspectives from Emerson Miller

GOD’ PROVIDENCE AND THE EARTHLY PUPPETTERS – Part 1

Satan’s battle for supremacy is always marked by his competition for dominance and control. Human disregard for God’s mandates makes the race completely incapable of balanced governance.

By Samuel Thomas, Jr.

BEST PRACTICES— EDUCATION Sabbath School University— Conclusion NAD Sabbath School Director Elder J. Alfred Johnson concludes his discussion here in print and online.

HOPE SERIES Serving Up Second Chances Aaron Pratt and his wife, Maymie Chandler-Pratt, have a passion to help others who struggle to re-enter society after being incarcerated. Both are veterans of this experience, and both are glad recipients of God’s renewal.

By Chavvah McCoy Lister Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 7

Warren Gillin

Angie Powels

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*NOT PICTURED: Danni Francis RegionalVoice || Spring Spring 2017 2017 88 || RegionalVoice

Garrison Hayes

Michael Polite

Jannel Monroe

Ben Lee

Esther Battle

Leah Wooten

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NEWSNEWS “God did something so very spectacular here at Andrews. I’m blessed to have been a part of it; I hope we can all continue to pray for our church and push for a community that mirrors Christ and His values. God has given us every tool we need to spread His message of love, not just amongst ourselves, but to the world!” —Leah Wooten

ANDREWS

AGENTS OF CHANGE

A PSA (Public Service Announcement) expressing the concerns of black students at Andrews University.

T IS TIME. It is time. It is time. It is time. It is time for Andrews University to apologize for the systemic racism it has perpetuated on this campus. Since 1874 this institution has too often mirrored the bigotry of American society rather than reflecting the true values of Jesus Christ. Black students and their families have often submitted grievances expressing the racism and hate that they’ve experienced. . . .From past grievances such as forced segregation in the cafeteria. . . . . .To present grievances such as a lack of proper ethnic representation among faculty and administration. For decades our friends and our families have asked for a response— but our university has remained silent. You would think that after one hundred and forty-three year, a faithbased university would feel compelled to follow the biblical counsel on reconciliation. You would think that it would have already said— I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE SHERWIN

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NEWSNEWS And yet Andrews, like the United States of America, has championed the story of Jesus, but hasn’t followed the counsel of Jesus. So here we are. Asking once again, for an apology that should have been given generations ago. Our administration has shown us that responding to grievances only takes one week. One week. One week. One week. You have one week— To release a formal statement of apology for the wrongful discrimination against black students of this institution. Not only apologize for past discrimination, but acknowledging the presence of current discrimination. You have one week. One week to not only apologize, but to commit to making the measurable changes that will ensure future generations will not have to experience what we have experienced. Changes such as: Mandating that all faculty and staff receive diversity training in order to maintain employment. Ensuring that the ethnicity of the faculty and _______________________________________________________

Editor's Note - Special thanks to Dr. Rachel Williams Smith and Chaplain Michael Polite for coverage and photography coordination.

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staff properly reflect the diversity of the student body. Providing classes that are taught from a perspective other than the perspective of Euro-centric values. And stop allowing professors and worship leaders to demonize our style of worship. You have one week. One week to speak to our often-dismissed concerns. One week to reverse the narrative that the concerns of our counterparts are valued more than our own. One week to honor those who have survived ill treatment. One week to acknowledge the jaded racial history of this institution. One week to draft a manifesto that will ensure our equal treatment for years to come. One week to say I’m sorry. We should have done better. We will do better. We’re waiting. We’re waiting. We’re waiting. We’re waiting. We’re waiting. t

And yet Andrews, like the United States of America, has championed the story of Jesus, but hasn’t followed the counsel of Jesus.

Andrea Luxton

This is the formal response from Andrews University to the #ItIsTimeAU video. Andrea Luxton. President Thank you. Deborah Weithers. Dean for Student Life Thank you. Stephen Payne, VP Integrated Marketing and Communication Thank you. Andrea Luxton. President As Andrew University, we want to thank you. While it is always difficult to listen to stories that document pain, injustice and mistreatment within our community, we are thankful that you have spoken di-

rectly, honestly and from your hearts. Stephen Payne, VP Integrated Marketing and Communication We want you to know that we have heard your legitimate concerns about systematic racism and injustice for the African American community that has marked centuries of this community’s history. Frances Faehner, VP Campus & Student Life Most importantly, we want you to know that we have heard your heart-felt and painful reflections. These stories speak to a reality that has been a disgraceful part of the history of this institution and our Church for the last fourteen decades. Ashley Neu, President, Andrews Uni-

versity Student Association The tragic realities of racism and injustice injure the lives, hearts, and souls of our community right here at Andrews University and the larger communities we belong to. Stephen Payne, VP Integrated Marketing, and Communication You’ve asked for a response within a week. We’d agree. In fact, it should not take us any time at all to answer and acknowledge some essential things. So, let’s begin right now. I’m sorry. June Price, University Chaplain I am sorry. Demetri Kirchberg, Editor-in-Chief, Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 11

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Andrews Student Movement I’m sorry.

tions against interracial dating. For that, I apologize.

Andrea Luxton. President I am sorry. As an organization, we have been guilty of racial bias; of making our faculty, staff, and students of color feel ‘less than.’ We have not listened well enough. We have not been sensitive enough and we have missed opportunities to take action where action should have been taken. For that, I apologize.

Meredith Jones Gray, Author As We Set Forth, Andrews University History I am sorry. Explicit racist acts committed against black students have been part of our history, including cross burnings on our campus in 1969 and 1974. Hateful words and actions have been directed against our students. Even today, our minority students have been misunderstood and marginalized. For that, I apologize.

Steve Yeagley, Assistant VP Campus & Student Life I am sorry. Andrews University’s history has been marked by systemic racism. In the past, official policies have included forced segregation in the cafeteria and prohibi-

Andrea Luxton. President So I believe the only answer is a simple but profoundly challenging one.

Janet Ledesma, Chair, Andrews University Faculty Senate We must do better Demetri Kirchberg, Editor-in-Chief, Andrews Student Movement And be better. Ashley Neu, President, Andrews University Student Association We must do better Christon Arthur. Provost And be better. Andrea Luxton. President We must do better and be better. To begin, this progress will be achieved by direct, frequent and meaningful interactions about the changes we need in the classroom, from the pulpit, in meeting rooms and offices, and even

around cafeteria tables. Janet Ledesma, Chair, Andrews University Faculty Senate It’s a change that will involve listening to the voices of those who continue to be treated unjustly—including those from other marginalized and minority groups. This change will involve each of us, including those who may not understand the pain and difficulties that some within our community face. Christon Arthur. Provost In addition to several. . . productive dialogues, here are some specific steps we are implementing: On a campus already blessed with a remarkable richness of diversity, we must explore and pursue the strength diversity brings, if we are to center our community and God’s calling for our lives. Andrea Luxton. President The first step is this: We will immediately begin a search for a full-time, senior-level administrator of diversity—a new, cabinet-level position that reports directly to me and will drive meaningful, visible, and ongoing change. Deborah Weithers. Dean for Student Life This position will expand and strengthen cultural diversity training that will be required of all faculty, staff, and students.

Christon Arthur. Provost As a campus, we will continue to diversify our faculty, staff, and administration to ensure high-quality education that prepares our students to serve meaningfully in a global environment. Our curriculum should also reflect and educate our students about our diversity. Steve Yeagley, Assistant VP Campus & Student Life We will have a strengthened grievance process that allows students to simply and directly report injustice and mistreatment of all kinds to seek resolution. June Price, University Chaplain We will commit to honor and celebrate all the ways we seek to achieve community—including how we gather and worship together throughout our university family. We will also seek to understand, celebrate, and honor the ways we worship, from within the classroom and beyond, as we reflect that commitment and understanding as teachers, staff, and community. Demetri Kirchberg, Editor-in-Chief, Andrews Student Movement I pledge to hold Andrews University accountable. Christon Arthur. Provost I pledge to hold Andrews University accountable—to be a place of commitment; a place of real change, a place where God’s influence is evident, and reflects the call of Jesus Christ to be a loving community. Frances Faehner, VP Campus & Student Life I pledge to hold Andrews University accountable; to learn from the painful lessons of the past and commit to a more just, caring and inclusive future. Garrison Hayes, Black Student Christian Forum, Student leader #ItIsTimeAU We pledge to hold Andrews University accountable—to pursue these goals in transparent, measurable, and significant ways.

I pledge to guide and inspire Andrews University to become a visible example of racial justice and equality. Esther Battle, Black Student Christian Forum, Student leader #ItIsTimeAU We pledge to hold Andrews University accountable—to pursue these goals in transparent, measurable, and significant ways. Andrea Luxton. President I pledge to guide and inspire Andrews University to become a visible example of racial justice and equality. Our campus will be a place of safety for our African American students and employees, as well as for people of all races, ethnicities, and cultures. This ongoing journey toward reconciliation, healing and transformation will be hallmarks of this university. June Price, University Chaplain May God bless this process of reconciliation, healing, and transformation. Frances Faehner, VP Campus & Student Life May God bless this process of reconciliation, healing and transformation for our students and campus community. Dwight K. Nelson, Lead Pastor, Pioneer Memorial Church So, may God bless this process of reconciliation, healing, and transformation for our entire community, both on this campus and beyond, a process that continues today, and culminates in the joyous return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Andrews University Seal Listen. Dialogue. Change. t

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THE RIGHT KIND OF FIGHT By LaTasha Hewitt

hen you hear the word “contend,” you may think of two opponents, but when you add the word “together,” it implies a “force” or “army” fighting for a shared cause. This concept drove the theme of the 2016 Pastoral Evangelism Leadership Conference (PELC). “As pastors, layleaders, and administrators we are facing a common foe, and we are at our best when we are contending or fighting together,” says Jesse Wilson, PELC chairperson. The annual conference held on the campus of Oakwood University December 4th-7th, brought hundreds of pastors and church leaders from all across the North America and beyond. Opening night was dedicated to honoring giants in the Adventist work, such as Trevor Baker, W.C. Scales, T. Marshall Kelly, Ralph Peay, Mildred Johnson, and Allen Sovory. Later that evening, Pastor Kennedy Luckett kicked off the PELC sermon series with a message “The Prayer He Did Not Pray.” That was just the beginning of a series of dynamic speakers who reminded attendees of what we are fighting for and whom we are fighting against. Other conference speakers and sermon titles included: Rudolph McKissick (Bethel Baptist In14 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

stitutional Church in Jacksonville, Florida)- “You’re Not Out of Options” Jerry Carter (Calvary Baptist, Morristown, NJ ) – “The Backside of God” Jason Ridley – “The Night Time is the Right Time” Donovan Washington – “I Need a Friend” Tricia Wynn-Payne – “Wait For It” Kenneth Manders – “Before the Battle Begins” Gamal Alexander – ‘We Gon’ Be Alright” Laurent Grosvenor – “Living Beyond Jealousy” Attendees such as Stevie Stennis, a pastor in Northern California, were deeply moved by the messages they heard from various speakers, “I’m surprised that I gained so much. Thank God for the preaching events. They helped me look at Christ more seriously.” In addition to the preaching, the workshops also played a key role in the conference. This year they were offered in the morning as well as afternoon. Seminars included topics like “Is Trump Right about Islam?; “Irrelevant: Why Men Skip Church; Chaplain Affairs; “Battle Buddies: The Power of Synergy in Ministry,” and more. There were also sessions geared toward effective evangelism, church planting, and technology and social media. Terry Henry, an elder

“The seminars have been second to none and eye-opening; They make me want to go and do more when I get back.” from Omaha Sharon Church in Omaha, Nebraska (Central States), remarked, “The seminars have been second to none and eye-opening; They make me want to go and do more when I get back.” A welcomed feature of PELC is the panel discussion with regional conference presidents. Moderated by James Lewis, the discussion centered around solutions to strengthening evangelism in our regional conferences. Some solutions shared were: 1. Find ways to penetrate PHOTOGRAPHY BY LaTASHA HEWITT

Dr. Jesse Wilson (at podium), is joined on the rostrum by Regional Conference Presidents and leaders. From left to right: Kenneth Manders, Bermuda, Roger Bernard, Central States, Gregory Mack, Southeastern, Clifford Jones, Lake Region, Virgil Childs, regional director, Pacific Union,Daniel Honore, Northeastern, Calvin Watkins, Southwest Region, William Cox, Allegheny West, Not pictured: Henry Fordham, Allegheny East, William Winston, South Atlantic, Benjamin Jones, South Central.

the secular barrier (Dr. Daniel Honore, Northeastern); 2. Retain new members by putting evangelism dollars on the backend, as well as the frontend (Roger Bernard, Central States); 3. Reach our millennials and support our institutions (Calvin Watkins, Southwest Region); 4. Return to the distinctiveness of the Adventist message (Gregory Mack, Southeastern). It would not be PELC without stellar music. A spirited praise team opened

every service, and attendees enjoyed selections from the Oakwood Aeolians and Dynamic Praise choirs. Monday evening, attendees enjoyed a mini-concert from powerhouse gospel artist Lisa Page-Brooks, who reminded us that the blood still works. Exhibitors played their role as well in the experience. Several vendors and ministry groups lined the halls and foyer of the church sharing resources and goods for purchase.

NEW THIS YEAR Each year the conference seeks to enhance attendee experience by adding new elements. One such addition this year was the “Ted Talk-style” presentations - short, powerful talks on a specific subject. Presenters included Baldwin and Pollyanna Barnes who spoke on the marriage commitment and Ben Jones, who tackled the challenges of being a conference president. Also, for the first time, PELC added a Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 15

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bonus mid-day service to the program. The speaker was Dr. Rudolph McKissick, Jr, who followed up his message with a lunch-and-learn experience in the OU cafeteria for the first 150 attendees, another new feature. OTHER TRACKS In addition to the main track of seminars and presenters, there is a track for Spanish-speaking attendees and one for ministers’ spouses. The Hispanic track met in the Bradford-Cleveland-Brooks Leadership Center while the spouses convened in Wade Hall. Both featured their own series of speaker. The spouses’ sessions included roundtable discussions, break-out sessions, a shopping trip, and even massag16 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

es. “I believe that the spouses sessions are important because of the fellowship we exchange. We are able to talk about things our spouses do not understand,” shares Tiffany Brissett, spouse of Orville Brissett, pastor of Shiloh Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. SOCIAL MEDIA Social media allowed PELC to reach beyond the OU campus. “We recognize that with social media we are able to engage countless people outside of the event who would benefit from our resources and all that the PELC conference has to offer,” shares Chris Thompson, PELC committee member. With all of the phenomenal one-liners and quotable quips, tweeting, retweet-

ing, posting, liking, sharing, and following was on the rise, and those who chose engage were incentivized with giveaways such as an iPad. The use of social media is not just encouraged during the event, but serves as the primary tool used to communicate with pastors and leaders throughout the year. After all is said and done, Wilson summarized the importance of a conference such as this one. “PELC gave us a greater appreciation for our collective gifts and talents. It also signaled the need for us to respect different approaches, persons, and personalities as we strive to work together. We value unity. We can’t afford uniformity,” said Wilson. t

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God Provides A Way: The Testimony of Kyle Brodhead Written By Emmanuel Ortiz, Communication Manager, Atlantic Union College™

Kyle Brodhead was born and raised in Kingston, New York; located about two hours north of New York City. Kyle has memories of his biological mother taking him to church on Sundays when he was a young child. It is one of the few memories he has of her, and one of the rarer ones when they were happy together. Severe family problems forced Kyle and his brothers to be taken from their biological parents by Child Services when he was seven years old. He was taken in by a foster family who introduced him to a religion he had never heard of before: Seventh-day Adventism. Growing up, he was wellliked in the church and praised for his intelligence and service but he kept that part of his life hidden from his schoolmates in elementary school. Although he was active in his church, Kyle had some difficulty connecting with God and understanding the Bible. By high school, he became popular, known for being great in sports and being the class clown. He would downplay his intelligence and spiritual life in high school so that he can appear “cool” to his peers. Eventually this led to him partying, drinking alcohol and partaking in recreational drugs. Sneaking out of his home to party at night became a regular habit, but he was caught. Warned by his foster father that if he continued

to do this would lead him to be kicked out of the house, he decided to leave on his own accord. Tired of his foster family’s rules, he wanted to experience life for himself.

“He was caught stealing from a teacher and was expelled and banned from his community college.” Kyle had everything figured out. He would party at night, and go to work and college during the day. But his increase usage of alcohol and drugs took its toll. He was failing his classes. Due to absences and lack of focus, he was fired from his job. He was caught stealing from a teacher and was expelled and banned from his community college. Kyle had to continually find a new place to sleep every night. The longest he stayed was with his foster aunt, and a police raid on her home, because of the drugs he had stashed there, ended that arrangement. He sold drugs and robbed other dealers to make a living. His life was in such a state of turmoil that his friends who he partied with started to tell him that he may need professional help. One friend lied to Kyle that he needed his company for his Narcotics Anonymous meetings, just to see if that would encourage

Kyle Brodhead in a Theology class at Atlantic Union College™.

Kyle to find help. At those meetings, Kyle started to hear the attendees’ heartbreaking stories of the suffering they endured because of their addiction to drugs, and Kyle began to realize how terrible his life had become. He started attending the Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings on his own and began reading the Bible again. Seeing how spiritually broken he was, he began to seek out the Lord, and slowly started coming back to church. Recommitting his life to God, Kyle heard His call to be a pastor. One day, while working at a superstore, he heard a familiar voice call his name. Chris Tulloch was not only part of Atlantic Union College’s Enrollment team but a member of the Kingston Adventist Church. Mr. Tulloch heard through church members that Kyle was interested in ministry and went to Kyle’s job to talk to him about it. With Mr. Tulloch’s help, Kyle was able to get everything he needed to enroll and obtain a degree in Theology. Kyle Brodhead considers being in his second year as a student of Theology at Atlantic Union College™ a miracle. He feels that God has blessed him by coming here and is very excited with the opportunity to apply himself in his studies, rely on God’s wisdom, and share his testimony to others.

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NEWSNEWS SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE

SEC president Gregory Mack.

MISSION DRIVEN: A CHANGING CONFERENCE By: Dwayne O’Neil Robinson

___________________________________________________________________________ Editor’s Note - Special thanks to Dr. Bryant Taylor for coverage and photography coordination. 20 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

he Southeastern Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists held their bi-annual 2017 Leadership Summit from Friday, February 3 to Sunday, February 5, in Bonnett Creek, Orlando, Florida. However, this year’s Leadership Summit was remarkable and more impactful than any other summit held before. Newly elected President, Gregory O. Mack, along with his entire strategic leadership team, expressed a desire to bring about change in the church and conference at large, from “an event driven” to a mission-driven conference and church. The determined mission, as stated by President Mack, “Sharing Hope, Restoring Wholeness”, was woven throughout every presentation during the summit. Furthermore, the Southeastern Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists and the North American Division of Seventh-Day Adventists have formed a mission driven partnership, considering an estimated trajectory of the church as a whole. In the next 30 years, it is projected that the Seventh-day Adventist Church will die if the millennials don’t take over. Leaders who represented their individual churches from all over the Southeastern Conference, were inPHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS LOU

trigued upon hearing this new information, and the newly bestowed charge.

y incorporating the new mission, instead of each church and each department working separately to achieve different goals, every church and department would have one focus: to finish preaching the gospel to the whole world, thus saving souls. One would imagine that the main question on the minds of everyone present might be, “How can we do this in a new way?” By the end of the 2017 Leadership Summit, every person who attended had three essential elements—an answer to this question, the tools to achieve this new assignment in their own respected areas, and a portion of the fiery motivation needed to carry out this mission for God. Without a doubt, the summit organizers did a spectacular job of lining up powerful keynote speakers, insightful workshop presenters, magnificent soloists, as well as a splendidly catered cuisine. One of these presenters, Roxanne Stone, the editor-in-chief for Barna Group, is known for data presentations on areas of faith and culture, vocation, millennials, social justice, and church leadership. Ms. Stone had both the ability and knowledge necessary to present her information in a way that was comprehensible to everyone present. She specifically covered how much the world has changed in the 21st century, stating the facts and instructing the leaders on how to bridge the gaps. According to Ms. Stone, there are very real generational differences between millennials and elders.

l-r Michael Owuzo, D. Min Executive Secretary and Mark Brown, D. Min Family Ministries Director

hese two generations need to come together in an effort to understand each other so that the millennials can effectively lead the church while the elders mentor them, gradually stepping down out of their leadership positions to allow the millennials to complete the mission. Ms. Stone went on to say that we as a church need to win back the people that once were a part of our congregations—the Post Seventh-day Adventist Christians. This was a reminder that we need to be kinder, more loving, and less judgmental, in order to make a difference in our communities. The ideas attendees took away were that we have to come together on one accord by using outside resources in a creative way; such as, technology, available data, schools, businesses, and even restaurants. By collaborating with other people, places, and especially other churches that carry our new mission, we can make such a difference in our communities. That way, should any one of our churches leave their respective communities, the churches would be greatly missed. We as Seventh-day Adventist Christians in the Southeastern Conference and across the North American Division, need to work together in fulfilling our new mission; taking what we learned from this 2017 Leadership Summit. That would be a sure way to bring the love of our Savior to a dying world, by sharing hope and restoring wholeness. t PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS LOU

One would imagine that the main question on the minds of everyone present might be, “How can we do this in a new way?”

Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 21

elcome to Cactusville, one of the most adventurous towns in the Southwest! Cactusville is a mining town tucked away in the desert where the sun is always shining, the skies are bright blue, and the peaks of the surrounding mountains look like broken spurs. Yee-haw!

Kids will experience a rip roarin’ good time while learning that they are called by God. They are called to be unconditionally loved and accepted, whoever they are. God’s calling includes a revelation of His unique purpose for each and every child. Kids will learn how they can accept and live out this calling while enjoying Bible treasure-huntin’ Cactusville adventures!

Kit Includes Station Guides • Round Up – Opening & Closing Programs • Campfire Stories – Bible Story Station • Sunset Canyon – Prayer Station • Trading Post – Craft Station • Wild Horse Corral – Game Station • Chuckwagon Snacks – Snack Station Additional Resources • Music CD/DVD • Round Up DVD • Wrangler Guide • Posters • Promotional Materials • Sample Cactusville Critter • Director’s Guide

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Scan to watch a preview of Cactusville or go to AdventistVBX.org Created by the North American Division Children’s Ministries Department

LEADING CHILDREN TO JESUS Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me,” and He meant it! He said it with great passion because all three members of the Godhead value and deeply love children. As a VBX leader you need to be authentic, comfortable, and confident in leading children to Jesus. Make evangelism a priority and a topic to focus on during your VBX staff training. Here are some suggestions that will help you discuss salvation with all the children God sends to your VBX. Use concrete and kid-friendly terms. Typically the age group that attends VBX does not think in abstract terms. Use words that are accurate and appropriate. Talk and listen. Be sure to use your eyes and ears for listening! Show that you value and respect each child. Talking, questioning, thinking out loud, and praying together will help you know a young person’s desire and readiness for this important step. Involve the parents. The best people to determine whether a child is ready to make a decision to follow Jesus are the parents. If the child comes from an unchurched family, talk with the parents and let them know their child is interested in knowing more about Jesus. Maybe the parents will decide to join their child in a kid-friendly Bible study. Let the Holy Spirit lead. After all, the Holy Spirit knows every child’s heart! Involve the local pastor. If a child tells a VBX leader they want to be baptized or have questions about Jesus, set up a meeting with the pastor. Don’t let the moment pass. Children respond quickly to the Word of God. They don’t need a lecture or a 10-part sermon series in order to hear God’s call. Be prepared to speak when the right moment arrives!

BEST PRACTICES

PANAFRICAN

CITY TEMPLE SDA CHURCH CONTINUES

GLOBAL MISSIONS EMPHASIS By Victoria L. Joiner

24 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

“What we must do is invest in the minds of people who have a vision and hope. They are just like diamonds in the rough— unpolished and lacking preparation due to limited resources. These brilliant people are filled with passion and innovation. They simply need the educational opportunity to shine for the Lord.” Elder Samuel Thomas speaks with strong conviction to build support for a continued partnership with Adventist University of Africa (AUA) with his local congregation. This partnership involves more than just offerings, it is a chance for a local congregation in Detroit, Michigan to make a real impact in the work of the Lord on the other side of the world. January 7, 2017, the City Temple SDA Church became the training ground for Global Missions Emphasis in Detroit, Michigan. Drs. Delbert and Susan Baker brought their expertise to the local congregation to help with strategic planning and giving to support their newly re-established Global Missions emphasis. Just one year ago, Elder Thomas led this congregation off to a great start by not only generously giving $11,000 to global missions, but also sending qualified experts from the congregation to share knowledge and experience with the people of East Africa. This year, the congregation continues to pursue opportunities to give and support global missions through a direct partnership with Adventist University of Africa. Elder Thomas contacted the dynamic leadership team of Delbert and Susan Baker and invited them to come to the church to speak and conduct workshops for the congregation. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CITY TEMPLE MEDIA CENTER

Dr. Delbert W. Baker is the first African American to lead the Adventist University of Africa as its Vice Chancellor. He is noted for his stellar career as a leader in the Seventh-day Adventist Church as a former Vice President of the General Conference and as gifted leader in Christian Education. Dr. Susan M. Baker currently serves as the Director of Research and Faculty Development and Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health at AUA.

he Bakers spoke about the need for training in higher education for the leadership in the countries on the African continent. For generations, those who were interested in obtaining graduate degrees such as a Master’s or Doctor of Divinity had to leave and matriculate in the United States or other countries. Many families were uprooted during that process and often eventually immigrated permanently. This was a tremendous loss of what could be called the “brain trust” of these countries. AUA is designed to provide quality higher education and training to talented scholars and leaders around the continent. The university offers graduate degrees such as the Master of Business Administration, Master of Public Health, and Doctor of Divinity from their Theological Seminary since it opened in 2006. However, this wonderful educational opportunity is still out of reach to many deserving people. This is where the appeal for help is most urgent. Many of the students cannot raise the tuition needed for the two-year pro-

The Bakers spoke about the need for training in higher education for the leadership in the countries on the African continent.

grams offered at AUA. In places where leadership is most urgently needed, there is no church or conference support or subsidies available to the workers. Elder Thomas explained, “The Adventist Church in North America has unions and conferences that often provide funds for their leaders to attend the seminary or to pursue graduate degrees. These people have NO such support. The irony is that the costs in the U. S. are eight to ten times more for a two-year program than it is at the Adventist University of Africa. The full year tuition for the Doctor of Ministry program is actually less than $2,500. Several Masters Programs [require] only one year, so a gift of $2,500 would allow a student to attain a higher degree.” This is where the appeal went out to the members of City Temple. The members of this local congregation pulled together and were able to pledge their support to help students to achieve their dreams of higher education. Offerings totaling around $9,000 were garnered over two Sabbaths and a single donor gave $1,000 to round the gifts up to a full $10,000. The check was presented to conference and union officials so that these worthy students would have the opportunity to learn and Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 25

BEST PRACTICES

PANAFRICAN return knowledge and skills back to their communities to finish the work that God ordained. Elder Thomas reiterated the fact that many developing countries do not have the opportunities available here in the U. S. “We tend to obsess over the ghetto environment here--when there are resources and opportunities available here that developing countries will never have. There are no opportunities to advance and grow there and we need to invest in the minds of people who have a vision and hope for their communities.” Elder Thomas made it clear however, that City Temple definitely supports their own local community and the church-sponsored Peterson-Warren Academy. The church even provides support for local students who are not members of the congregation to go to the academy. “Over $100,000 is given per year to sponsor young people and to support our own local school,” Thomas adds. “But now our church has a wholesale commitment to the education of individuals both on the continent of Africa and locally.”

his revived emphasis on Global Missions at the City Temple SDA Church has already blessed many people who are filled with innovation and passion, but simply do not have the educational opportunities that so many others have. City Temple is now even more committed to partnering with other General Conference approved projects and other churches throughout the Regional Conference territories can pull together to support worthwhile causes within the worldwide church. These partnerships can and will change the lives of many people within the local congregation and around the world. It truly is more blessed to give than to receive. t _________________________ Victoria Joiner, Ed.D, veteran broadcaster and former General Manager of Oakwood University’s WJOU-FM station, now serves as a professor in the Oakwood Department of Communication.

26 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

Southern Graduate Helps Students Heal

A MASTER’S DEGREE IN COUNSELING PREPARES GRADUATES TO OFFER COMFORT FOLLOWING TRAGEDY. By Brittany Swart It didn’t take long for Tamekia Bush, a 2015 alum from Southern Adventist University’s master’s program in counseling, to put theory into practice. In November 2016, only her second year working at Woodmore Elementary in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a school bus full of Woodmore students crashed, killing six children and injuring others. Bush immediately went into action, and months later, she continues to work with grieving students and families affected by the tragedy. “I do a check-in with them every other day, if not more frequently,” Bush said. “We’re constantly in contact, and I give support where it’s needed.” In addition to individual and group counseling sessions, Bush helps make sure students receive clothing, food, and other basic physical needs. As the school’s representative, she also assists with grief support sessions in the community so students and families feel comfortable seeing someone familiar engaged alongside them in the healing process. Along with fulfilling the official duties of a school counselor, Bush has been able to share Christ with the students, their families, and community members by praying with them and “sharing the message of God’s unconditional love, grace, and mercy.” Sometimes those she is serving are the ones who initiate a conversation about God, but she’s willing to bring this special subject up on her own, as well. While Bush is not the only administrator students can talk with, she is often the go-to person for help. The work can be challenging when there are 10 people needing assistance from her at the same time, Bush said, but she would not have it any other way. SAU School Counselor Tamakia Bush loves working with students, pointing them to the ultimate Comforter when they face tragedy. “I earn my pillow every night, but I’m right back at it the next day,” Bush said. “I really love working with children and feel like this is what I should be doing.” __________________________________________________________ -Brittany Swart is a senior English major at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tennessee.

REGIONAL VOICE

BESTPRACTICE

A MESSAGE TO MILLENNIALS:

WE’RE

LISTENING– AND MISSING YOU! INTERVIEW WITH WORLD CHURCH VP DR. ELLA SIMMONS 28 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

RV: as an educator, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, are you concerned about the issue of Millennials in our church? ES: I am concerned about the issue of the absence of Millennials in our church. Far too many of our young people who fit that millennial age group/category are absent on Sabbath mornings; on Wednesday nights; Friday nights; are absent from the activities and from the body of Christ in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I'm concerned that we have not made space; have not made appropriate room or structures in the church that would help them to make decisions to remain in the church, . . . and not just remaining in the church as members, but actively serving. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY MARC ANTHONY

Far too many of our young people who fit that millennial age group/category are absent on Sabbath mornings; on Wednesday nights; Friday nights; are absent from the activities and from the body of Christ in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Dr. Ella Simmons

RV: Dr. Simmons: is there any world church initiative to obtain, retain and maintain Millennials? ES: I am, on one hand, pleased to say, “yes." There are some initiatives that are crystallizing in the world church. For example, we have conducted some research to determine what the needs are; what's taking our young people out; what's bringing them back. In those cases (where) we are seeing them return to the church, what's helping them be happy in serving the Lord? . . . And, to be successful in ministry and service? So, we're gathering that kind of information. Also, the ValueGenesis studies of decades ago, gave us a clue. Those who were children then, are young adults now! And they told us back then what they ex-

_________________ Editor’s Note: To see and hear more of this interview with Dr. Simmons, please go to our website at www. regionalconferenceministry. com.)

pected, as Christians—that is, to make a difference in the world; to help other people; to live out the love of God, on a daily basis, and there's so much more. The list is long, but it seems to be that same list of issues and items that are emerging from the studies of today, from what we're hearing young adults say what they expect of our church, . . . and expect of themselves as members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. RV: From your experience as an educator at historically black institutions (Kentucky State University and Oakwood College) and as the first woman vice president (of the world church), are female Millennials different from male Millennials, and are black Millennials different from white Millennials, in your observations? ES: In my observations and from some of our studies, we do see some typical differences between males and females. But as we look at this group in terms of the issues that you raised in regard to their relationship to the church, their satisfaction with the church—males and females for the most part think the same kinds of things. For example, even as we look at the issues of women in leadership in the church and some of the challenges we've had, young men have taken up the cause and the concern about this, just as (have) young women. So, we're seeing them as a group, just being concerned about knowing and being and doing what God expects in this 21st-century, “the end time” that we've told them about, that we've been telling them is coming. They believe what we told them: that we are in the end time. But the difference perhaps is that they believe and they feel very strongly about the fact that we should be doing something to not only warn the world, but to make a difference in lives, real lives, and the world. And both males and females are heralding that message everywhere in the world. RV: Thank you very much. t _______________________________________ Tim Allston, M.S.M., who has served this publication for decades, most recently as Managing Editor, has departed to help others with his e-book series, (see ad on p. 4).” to now read “his e-book series (see ad on p. 4).” Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 29

BEST PRACTICES

SOULWINNING

AUTHOR DR. EMERSON MILLER ANSWERS

WHY BLACK MEN DON'T ATTEND CHURCH, AND . . . PART 2

30 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

Interview with Dr. Emerson G Miller By Tim Allston This segment discusses the “feminized” church, the Nation of Islam, and statistics on male spiritual leadership at home “For Females—One Male Only” in Church According to Dr. Miller, (EGM), another statement men out there are making is that (our) churches have become feminized • The music is ‘romantic,’ [with] romantic tunes; • There are flowers and lace everywhere; • The colors are pink . . . [or] whatever colors fit women. Some black men also believe one of the reasons these guys (“pulpit pimps”) do that is because they want to keep those women happy. They (women) give the money, and so (the leaders) gear everything to those who are in front of them. Those same ministers who cater and affirm women also repel men, in this sense. In a statement one man said, “Y’know, she’s up there fanning the pastor, serving him . . . she doesn’t do that for me at home!” And when they do get

(See and hear Dr. Miller’s responses at www. regionalconferenceministry.com)”;

home, these men will say things like, “Don’t you tell me what that man says; this is MY house! He’s not runnin’ MY home!”

The other thing about Islam is that they guarantee you a family—free from drugs, free from alcoholism, free from crime.

The “Juice” of the Nation of Islam RVM: Now the other side of that (earlier) statistic is that on the flip side, Nation of Islam is showing 75 percent male and 25 percent female. What is the “juice” that they have? EGM: Oh, they’ve got the juice, all right. For one thing from years ago – I think that they still do it – if you’re in prison, one of the (Black Muslim) brothers in Islam, they stay in touch with you. Malcolm X said (when he was in prison) that Elijah Muhammad wrote him a letter, with $25 in it. He sent a letter, and money was in it. What happens in (the Nation of) Islam is that they affirm Black men; they talk about ‘leadership, (for) Black men.” They put them in a certain strata or place—tell them where they belong – and teach them how to be men, even to the point of self-defense. And Black men like that: to be strong and protective . . . how to protect themselves and their families. They do this with “affirmation, . . .” Another thing about Islam is that they teach men how to be self-supportive – how to go into business for themselves – and they disdain welfare . . . They don’t believe in that at all. There’s a saying in Islam, ‘Do for Self.’ That kind of thing attracts Black men. The other thing about Islam is that they guarantee you a family—free from drugs, free from alcoholism, free from crime. What man is not attracted to (things like that)– he’s got little girls, young boys coming along, who’re going to be free from drugs, crimes and all these other kinds of deviant behaviors. Not only do they promise that, but the statistics show that they back it up! You don’t hear about (Nation of) Islam kids in trouble with the law, or anything else. And then I read another statement that said that their little girls do not wear halter tops and navel rings, and their women don’t watch (shows from popular culture) such as ‘Desperate Housewives!’ RVM: Where else do Black Men Worship? Are there Statistics on Males’ Spiritual Leadership in the Home, Church? t _______________________________________________ Emerson G. Miller, Th. D., MSW, LCSW, is a certified chaplain and has served as pastor, evangelist, school administrator, director of an alcohol and drug treatment program, university professor, and is currently in private practice of psychotherapy. He resides in South Bend, Indiana, is married to the former Patricia English and is the father of two children and three grand children. Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 31

REGIONAL VOICE

GOD’SPROVIDENCE

GOD’S PROVIDENCE AND THE EARTHLY PUPPETEERS Part I

The Fallacy of Successful Human Governance vs. Christ’s Government By Samuel Thomas, Jr.

n the Plains of ancient Mesopotamia, a brilliant, sophisticated, godless civilization nearly completed their glorious experiment of man governing man. The Tower of Babel, a single structure, was designed to assure the survival of earth’s inhabitants in the event of another global Flood. There, in what is now modern Iraq, human systems of governance melded with a defined, {and definitely false} religious system, and became the organizational structure by which Satan plotted to master humanity and conquer the planet. As Cain created a rival system of loyalty and worship to the Creator, Babel was the continuation of humanity’s defiance of God’s Divine law. Satan’s battle for supremacy is always marked by his competition for dominance and control. He launched his attack on earth against the idyllic life of Eden established by our Creator, and destroyed that life through blatant contempt for Divine consequences. Disregard for God’s mandates left the human race broken and completely incapable of balanced governance. Here are the origins of his plans to spread the curse of sin. Satan, the master puppeteer, aggressively demanded equal status with God. His passion for this started as as a matter of self-importance and a self-propelled rise to share power—in his own eyes. Today, the same human quest knows no geographical boundaries or racial context. The pursuit for superiority—whether racial, economic, or academic—is always born of the desire to relegate others to an inferior status. And, so damaged is the human race, that all suffer from some form of “superiority.” The oppressed often see themselves as “entitled,” while the oppressors believe themselves the “born leaders” and decision-makers—essential and irreplaceable. The truth is, neither group is qualified to define their positions and make resultant demands apart from our Heavenly Father’s design for the human race. True leadership is born of Godliness. The unfortunate or less privileged should seek, in a Godly manner, to do everything within their power to aid in advancing and benefiting themselves. God’s promise of “all things new”—heaven, earth, and even recreating our mortal bodies—is proof that complete and perfect happi-

32 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

If the very first family, and every subsequent family couldn’t get it right in the context of blood relationships this side of The Fall, how will any humans?

Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 33

REGIONAL VOICE

GOD’SPROVIDENCE

Why do we relentlessly seek equality, parity, fairness, and generosity from sinful humanity? Are we so gullible for a ‘fair’ government or idealistic existence, that we live as Alice in our own version of a cultural Wonderland?

34 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

Are we so gullible for a ‘fair’ government or idealistic existence, that we live as Alice in our own version of a cultural Wonderland? Wake up! There is no Utopia. ness and harmony in this present world is unattainable (See Revelation 21:5). As students of Bible prophecy, why do we obsess over the variances in platforms between political parties? Why do we expect and even long for stability, consistency, benevolence, and equity on a planet where one brother could not restrain feelings of hatred, malice, and supremacy, toward the other brother? Abel wanted to please God as God had ordained and defined. Cain wanted the Creator/ creature relationship on his own terms. The selfish, self-centeredness of sin always works to rewrite the plan of God, making man the center of all thought and priorities. If the very first family, and every subsequent family couldn’t get it right in the context of blood relationships this side of The Fall, how will any humans—hungry for power, motivated by pursuit of control and dominance, ever possess more than a fleeting, perfunctory regard for others? Why do we relentlessly seek equality, parity, fairness, and generosity from sinful humanity? Are we so gullible for a ‘fair’ government or idealistic existence, that we live as Alice in our own version of a cultural Wonderland? Wake up! There is no Utopia. Shouldn’t the prophetically informed see and understand that? We must. Washington’s political wrangling and its failure to apply the principles of our Nation’s democracy (rightly called ‘the human experiment’ by nineteenth century French diplomat Alexis de Tocqueville), is yet another chapter in humanity’s journey until all things earthly are made divinely new. America’s recent presidential election is not the cause of existent tensions within our coun-

try. Neither is the new president’s economic status or race the cause of the rapid deployment of Executive Orders from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. His inexperience at political systems and governance is not the reason for his engagement of so many military personnel for civilian responsibilities. Neither is his position as a Washington outsider the reason for his selection of individuals such as white nationalists Steve Bannon and Stephen Miller as primary advisors. If we have lost our ability to see through the lens of the Drama of the Ages--the controversy between Christ and Satan—we are in every significant way, blind. The prophet Isaiah defines skewed understanding or perception in the face of Divine edicts: “Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness. We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men.” (Isaiah 59:9 Prophetically, we are immersed in the last act of the battle between Christ and Satan. This writer is overwhelmingly convinced and convicted that we are standing on the precipice of the conclusion of all things. “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the mercies of our Lord Jesus Christ, and our gathering together in Him, that ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son perdition. . . .” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 KJV). t *** Part 2 will define our present political setting in the context of prophecy. _____________________________ Samuel Thomas, Jr., M.A./M. Div./M.S., is Senior Pastor of the City Temple Seventh-day Adventist Church in Detroit, Michigan. As you read this issue, you will also find an interview with him on the educational initiatives he and his congregation have taken in partnership with the Adventist University of Africa in Kenya. As a theologian and student of Bible prophecy, Elder Thomas offers this two-part perspective on the past, present and prophesied future of Planet Earth.

Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 35

BEST PRACTICES IN

EDUCATION

“THE UNIVERSITY OF SABBATH SCHOOL”

Editor’s Note: As we conclude this series, we turn to our website so you can see and hear the final part of this interview. Enjoy.

CONCLUSION By Elder J. Alfred Johnson

RVM: Elder J. Alfred Johnson, you talked about a three-step, three-word process (for Sabbath School empowerment), that almost guarantees success. Tell us about that. JAJ: and this three-step process grows right out of the definition of Sabbath School. You might recall in our last segment, I defined Sabbath School as . . . t

_________________________________________________________________

Note: The North American Division’s Sabbath School director continues his discussion on advancing this great resource from our previous issue

36 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

(See and hear Elder Johnson’s responses at www. regionalconferenceministry. com.)

Elder J. Alfred Johnson is Sabbath School director for the North American Division of Seventhday Adventists.

FAQs

Office for Regional Conference Ministry www.regionalconferenceministry.com

What is the Office for Regional Conference Ministry? Established in 1996, the Office for Regional Conference Ministry (ORCM) coordinates presenting the passion and urgency of the Third Angel’s Message, primarily to urban and under-represented communities in the North American Division (NAD). More specifically the ORCM, headquartered at Oakwood University, Huntsville, Alabama, USA, provides guidance, influence and advocacy for Regional Ministry throughout the United States; it also provides the follow-through to the shared vision of the Regional Leadership for the advancement of the gospel and imminent return of Jesus Christ. Which SDA institutions affiliate with the ORCM? At the core of the ORCM are nine Regional Conferences and the Bermuda Conference, the Regional Directors of the Pacific and the North Pacific Unions, as well as Oakwood University, Message and Regional Voice Magazines, the Annual Pastoral and Evangelism Leadership Conference, the Bradford-Cleveland-Brooks Leadership Center, the Breath of Life telecast, BAYDA

(Black Adventist Youth Directors Association) and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. What is a Regional Conference? Regional Conferences are similar in organizational structure to all other NAD conferences. However, a 1944 General Conference vote established Black-administered Regional Conferences. At that time, the catalyst for their formation was the segregationist policies, which, unfortunately, have had a lasting impact on American life. Yet, Regional Conferences have emerged as important leaders in the church’s mission in the United States. How do Regional Conferences benefit the SDA Church? Regional Conferences benefit North America and the world church in several ways, namely: • The North American church has experienced exponential growth to such an extent that the ratio of “minority” membership in the church is significantly higher than that in the general US population. • Through the Annual Pastoral and Evangelism Leadership Conference, Regional Conferences hold the SDA Church’s largest annual professional

growth seminar for pastors, and • Based upon our membership, evangelistic growth and tithing contributions, if one were to ask for a comparison, the Regional Work would rank as the NAD’s second largest union and the SDA Church’s fourth largest division. Now that segregation is illegal in the United States, do we still need Regional Conferences? Yes. Regional Conferences were established to fulfill a unique need in the church’s overall mission. Government policies have indeed changed, but sociological realities in America remind us constantly that the need for which Regional Conferences were formed is still very urgent in the 21st century. Are Regional Conferences just for African Americans? No. Regional Conference membership includes not only African Americans, but actually 123 non-Black congregations (Korean, Brazilian, Portuguese, Asian, African, Indonesian and Latino, for example)—thus, sharing the everlasting gospel with “every nation, kindred, tongue and people.” t

Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 37

REGIONAL VOICE

HOPESERIES

Bro. Pratt (right) at an expungement clinic supported by Second Chance Alliance, ICUC/LIVEFREE and Kansas Avenue SDA Church. Proposition 47 -- The Reduced Penalties for Some Crimes Initiative -was discussed at the clinic. Proposition 47 was on the November 4, 2014 ballot in California and was approved.

Bro. Pratt (3rd from left) promoting Proposition 57 with supporters from Second Chance Alliance, Inland Congregation United for Change (ICUC) and PICO National. Proposition 57, the California Parole for Non-Violent Criminals and Juvenile Court Trial Requirements Initiative, was on the November 8, 2016 ballot in California, and was approved.

Sis. May & Bro. Aaron Pratt after worship services at Kansas Avenue SDA Church in Riverside, California.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAVVAH McCOY LISTER

SERVING UP

SECOND CHANCES By Chavvah McCoy Lister

W Editor’s Note:

To learn more about Aaron Pratt and God’s guidance through his incredible life’s journey, please go to our website at www. regionalconferenceministry. com.)

e often hear that ‘everyone deserves a second chance.’ It’s a belief that Aaron Pratt of the Second Chance Alliance Re-Entry Program (Second Chance Alliance) holds close to his heart, but not because it’s a cliché that sounds good. Pratt believes everyone deserves opportunities to turn their lives around because he is a first-hand recipient of a second chance. Aaron Pratt and his wife, Maymie Chandler-Pratt, have a passion to help others who struggle to re-enter society after being incarcerated. Both are veterans of this experience, and both became homeless after they were released from serving time in prison. Although they didn’t have a place to call their own at the time, the Pratts found a spiritual home at the Kansas Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California. Shortly after his release from prison in 2012, “I found a brotherhood here at Kansas, and after that I was able to have friends that were able to be my community to help me, prayerfully, get through,” said Pratt of that time Those friendships this couple formed with some of the believers at the church were instrumental in helping them to obtain housing and to become re-integrated into society. Bill Howe, a retired UC Riverside, California, police chief, became a spiritual father to Pratt during that time. Howe continues to be a strong mentor and loyal friend. Still, even with caring friends nearby, Aaron Pratt struggled to make life work well. After his release from prison, he looked for jobs and landed 266 interviews. But when he came toward the end of nearly 42 percent of those interviews, Pratt was denied employment when he disclosed his status as a felon. “I said, ‘Lord, I need something now,” he recalled. He turned to Scripture, and went on an extended Daniel fast to seek the Lord. God answered by giving the Pratts a ministry to help others in similar situations, even in restricted circumstances. In 2013, while both were serving house arrest terms, God gave them the idea for Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 39

REGIONAL VOICE

HOPESERIES “God has specifically called me and my wife to this work. We work with homeless veterans. We work with disadvantaged youth. We travel the United States with no money. . .so [this is] why you can see God in it and not us. Second Chance Alliance. The Second Chance Alliance offers services, and advocates, for people in need of social services, especially those who are ex-offenders. The “5 Essentials” – Widespread Prayer, Loving Relationships, Faithful Bible Teaching, Collaborative Community Strategy, and Adults Who Empowe—are the ministry principles that Second Chance Alliance uses for reaching out to vulnerable populations in Riverside County, California. “God has specifically called me and my wife to this work. We work with homeless veterans. We work with disadvantaged youth. We travel the United States with no money. . .so [this is] why you can see God in it and not us. We do this. . .by the leading of the Spirit,” he shared. “God has been leading us to be partners in ministry ever since.” “I never knew how to do restorative justice ministry,” continued Pratt, who was once a Baptist pastor. But God is helping the couple to serve up second chances and to facilitate restoration, one life at a time. The Second Chance Alliance keeps track of people coming out of prison and county jails, and creates events to connect them with resources. Their encounters at these events help them have a smoother transition back into society. Second Chance Alliance often gives water and food to former inmates as they re-enter life in Riverside County, California. God called the Pratts to this ministry and.is also giving them the educational 40 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

tools they need to carry out the ministry. Since being released from prison, Mrs. Maymie Pratt has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Substance Abuse Counseling, and she is scheduled to complete her Master’s degree in Human Services in the Spring of 2017. Her goal is to be the on-site psychologist for the Second Chance Alliance, once she completes the necessary education and training.

rs. Pratt is also the primary author of a policy bill she would like legislators to review in the future. The bill proposes to modify and reduce the current wait time ex-offenders face before they can seek employment (sometimes mandated from seven to ten years), down to a more realistic term of one to two years, depending on the nature of their crimes. As she waits for a sponsor to introduce the bill, Mrs. Pratt continues to use her skills to serve the community. “I would like to do a research study to see just how many people out here are homeless and why. I will hand out these surveys….so I can assess their needs.” She also noted that the formerly incarcerated only last three years after getting out of prison due to various social justice issues, possibly to repeat the sad cycle. The Pratts hope their testimony will be a blessing to others. “I met her in her addictions, and in my addictions,” said Pratt of the time when he met his wife nearly 30 years ago. Now, instead of being addicted, the Pratts are truly committed to sharing the same hope they received in Christ. “Especially in the SDA faith, people are ashamed of their past,” Pratt noted. Instead of giving in to shame, “He made us bold to put our faith in Him.” “Only by the grace of God, we were able to make it,” Mrs. Pratt concluded. And by the grace of God, the Pratts are helping others to make it, as well. t _______________________ Chavvah McCoy Lister, B.A.,M.S., is a freelance writer living in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and a Communication graduate of Oakwood University.

These photos are explained in video clips at www.gethelpnow.org

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM ALLSTON

Spring 2017 | RegionalVoice | 41

OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY Statement of Vision, Mission, Core Values The Office for Regional Conference Ministry has posted this document for your review and understanding. • Our Statement of Vision: The Vision of Regional Conferences is to passionately embrace the second coming of Christ. • Our Statement of Mission: The mission of North American Division Regional Conferences is to present the Adventist message with a primary focus to black Americans and to any and all other people groups without regard to race, culture or national origin. • Our Core Values: 1. Excellence: We commit to spiritual, effective, efficient, collaborative leadership, and responsible service to God and people. 2. Respect: We follow the practice of open membership without regard to race, color, or national origin. 3. Integrity: We are above reproach in all that we do ensuring that our actions are consistent with the character of Christ. 4. Stewardship: We receive gifts from the generosity of Gods’ grace and other resources to support His ministry. 5. Preaching: We proclaim new life in Christ in public speech and action giving all glory, honor and praise to God. 6. Unity: In and with Christ as our model of service we stand in unity with the oneness of purpose, mission, structure, and goals of the church. 7. Worship: We believe that God is worthy and we gather together each Sabbath with praise, giving glory to salvation in Christ. 42 | RegionalVoice | Spring 2017

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