WE STILL BELIEVE IN SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST EDUCATION DR. CALVIN B. ROCK SHARES WISDOM HONOR TO GOD’S FAITHFUL SERVANTS REMARKABLE HOLY LAND TOUR
We
When I was a young pastor in the South Central Conference many years ago, I preached a sermon titled “We Still Believe.” It was based on the book of John, Chapter 6. Jesus is on an amazing run of miracles. First, He feeds the 5,000 (and since this number only included men, the crowd was probably more like 25,000 to 35,000).
lot of discussion in some Adventist circles about a perceived lack of quality in SDA education. However, The Cognitive Genesis [study] declares otherwise—that students in SDA schools ”score above predicted ability in all subjects.”
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The people were so impressed by the miracle, they decided to make Jesus their king. They were going to literally, make Him king, whether that was what He wanted or not. I am not quite sure how they planned to pull that one off. Exactly just how were they going to make Jesus become their king?
The crowd’s enthusiasm really cooled when they discovered that Jesus’ main mission was not to lead their armies against the Romans, but to lead them into the kingdom. They didn’t seem to be as interested in that.
The huge crowd melted away; John 6:66 says that even many of Jesus’ disciples left “and walked no more with Him.” Jesus turns and says to the Twelve, “Will ye also go away?”
The Bible says, unsurprisingly, that Peter spoke first. Peter’s propensity to speak got him in trouble on several occasions in the Bible—but he nailed this one. He said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”
In other words, Peter said to Jesus, “No matter what anybody else does, we are not going anywhere, because we know Who You are and we know what You said. We still believe.”
I know it’s not always popular, but I still believe in Seventh-day Adventist Christian Education. I know Who God is—in part, because of Seventh-day Adventist Christian Education. And I know what God said. Decades after I walked through the doors of Ramah Jr. Academy for the first time as a first grader and $100,000 or so I’ve paid in tuition for the education of two children and one grandchild, I still believe. Here’s why:
1. I believe that Seventh-day Adventist schools are where God wants our children to be educated. There are any number of places in the Bible where God speaks of the importance of teaching our children to know and to love God.
And while those who would argue against the vital importance of Seventh-day Adventist Education and who say they can teach their children about God in their home, the issue is not whether we shall instruct our children at home or at school. The fact is, our children need both. They need what we teach them in our homes to be reinforced by those we give them to when they leave our homes to continue their education.
No matter how good a non-SDA school is, it cannot teach our children the most important thing they will ever learn: To know, to love and to serve God. When I am telling my children about God, I want the other entities in their lives to be saying the same things I am. I want my children’s schools to share the same beliefs that I believe. I want my children to be educated; I want them to be prepared to make it this world; I want them to be successful, but most of all, I want them to be saved. If my children are not saved, then anything else that they are, won’t matter.
2. I believe that Seventh-day Adventist schools are the best schools—often, the only schools that prepare our children for both this life and the life to come. There is a
Should we really be surprised that the God Who throughout history has done more with less, Who consistently has blessed when we do what He says—that this same God would bless His schools? And isn’t it at least a little problematic when we are very quick to point out all the shortcomings our schools may have in preparing our children for this life but do not seem to be bothered by the far greater shortcomings that other schools have in preparing our children for the next life?
This is not to excuse poor performing church schools. Where we have them, we must fix them or we must close them. It is as simple as that. But let’s make sure our priorities for our children are clear.
Nor is this to criticize public schools. Public schools have a lot of wonderful, dedicated people in them. One of the best church members I have ever had in my 45 years of ministry, was a public school teacher. I have absolutely no doubt that she was as dedicated a teacher as she was a church member. And I don’t believe she is a lone example.
It would be a mistake not to think that there are not some fine public schools or private non-SDA schools which are very good at what they do. But it would be a greater mistake not to realize that for the good things that those schools do, they cannot do what our children need them most to do: They cannot prepare our children to accept the full gospel of Jesus Christ and to be saved in His kingdom, Lastly, I believe in Seventh-day Adventist Education because I have seen what it has done for my family and for me. Many years ago, my parents moved a block
and a half away from the church school in Cleveland, Ohio, so that my sister, brother and I could go to church school (my youngest sister was born later).
Then, when we entered college, my parents moved again—this time, a block and a half away from the campus of Oakwood. They sacrificed so that all four of us could have an SDA Christian Education all the way through.
My oldest sister and I are the only ones who had children. But when we had them, we put our children all the way through church school. And when our children had children, they put their children in church school.
And today, even though my parents are both gone, awaiting the call of Jesus, all of their children, their children’s children (grandchildren), and their children’s children’s children (great-grandchildren), are members of the Sev-
enth-day Adventist Church.
SDA Education gave me, my wife of 45 years and two wonderful children, (who between them, have three graduate degrees) gave us all fine educations. That education allowed me to work for this church and has given me the privilege of going around the world in the service of God.
In a few weeks, I shall have the great privilege of baptizing my grandson, the fourth generation of church-school educated, baptized Seventh-day Adventists in my family. His teachers and his school principal will be there in support.
I still believe in Seventh-day Adventist Education. t
Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), is also publisher of Regional Voice Magazine.4
When I am telling my children about God, I want the other entities in their lives to be saying the same things I am. I want my children’s schools to share the same beliefs that I believe. I want my children to be educated; prepared to make it this world; successful, but most of all, I want them to be saved.
By Dana C. EdmondPAGES 8, 11, 13
COVER STORY
Elder Alvin M. Kibble – The Statesman
At his passing, Elder Kibble fulfilled his own personal mission statement, “to live a full, rich, well-balanced, Christ-centered life of disinterested benevolence with eternity in view.”
By LaTasha HewittADDITIONAL TRIBUTES AND REPORTS
North American Division of SDAs
Elder Dana C. Edmond Tim Allston
PAGE 14
NEWS FEATURE
The 2023 NAD Teachers’ Convention brought new friendships and joyful reunions after COVID separations; fresh ideas for classrooms; inspiration from leaders; enriched workshops, sessions and more!
By Tamaria Kulemeka
Coverage coordinated by Dr. Bryant Taylor
PAGE 18
NEWS FEATURE
Unwavering Unity – The 2023 Regional Black Caucus
This annual gathering brought together an assembly of Black administrators at SDA Conference, Union, Division, and General Conference levels. It offered a unique opportunity for these leaders to share insights, experiences and ideas within Regional Conferences, the network of West Coast affiliates, the Bermuda Conference and NextGen participants.
Text and Photography by Gerson Pancarbo
PAGE 22
NEWS MAKERS
Mrs. Sabrina Cotton DeSouza
Moves to the GC
Mrs. DeSouza was recently elected to serve as the Associate Treasurer for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Her former post was working as the Vice President for Financial Administration and as the CFO at Oakwood University.
PAGE 23
NEWS FEATURE
New Studio Comes to the Charles E. Dudley, Sr., Center
The Dudley Center has welcomed a new addition—a media studio for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM) and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP).
News Coverage by Dana C. Edmond
Photography by Gerson Pancarbo
PAGE 24
KNOW THESE REGIONAL TERRITORIES
The Allegheny East And Allegheny West Conferences
Here are more facts and figures regard-
ing Regional Conference leadership. This time we focus on the Allegheny East and Allegheny West Conferences.
Data Compiled By Dana C. Edmond
Page 28
GLOBAL NEWS
More Disasters Strike
Floods, earthquakes, hurricanes over two oceans and fires in paradise all take a deadly toll. There are ways to help. Data Compiled from Media Sources and Weather Reports
Page 33
RCRP FEATURE
Dr. Calvin B. Rock Shares Wisdom for Life
After rendering rich service from the pulpit to the Oakwood College presidency; after serving as a General Conference official and as chairman of multiple boards; after his evangelistic work from the U.S to Siberia, this leader offers a wealth of wisdom.
Interview by Dr. Delbert W. Baker
Photos courtesy of Dr. Rock
Pages 42, 44, 46
IN MEMORIAM
Elder James O. Best
Elder Jackson Doggette Sr.
Elder Harold Brooks
Elder Best never avoided hard work, in his youth, while gaining his education or in taking care of his family and serving in ministry. God was always with him.
Elder Jackson Doggette Sr., offered an extraordinary term of service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church for 56 years, pastoring a total of 21 churches, including 13 districts, in four conferences.
Elder Harold Brooks first worked as a professional plumber before accepting a divine call to ministry. He completed theological studies at Oakwood College, then offered nearly 30 years to God in the Southeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Page 48
SDA BLACK HISTORY
Who knew that 1923 would be a modest but important starting point for Regional Ministry on the West Coast of the United States for three institutions that have made a world of difference in the lives of Black Adventists?
By Byron DulanCoverage coordinated by Dr. Bryant Taylor
Page 52
IN TRIBUTE
Tony Bennett
He defined the Great American Songbook in popular music. But before his success in entertainment, Tony Bennett successfully fought to beat Hitler’s Germany and was forever changed. When he returned home to America, he joined a group of Hollywood friends to stand and march with Dr. King in those early, dangerous days.
Coverage from Research and News Dispatches
Page 56
HOPE SERIES
When this group visited Cana, site of the first miracle of Jesus, some renewed their marriage vows; when they came to the Jordan River, some were baptized. And when they came to olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane to hold a sunset communion service, God expanded their supply of emblems to share with additional newcomers who joined them.
By Olson Perry1947 - 2023
Elder Alvin Maurice Kibble, former conference president and division vice president, lived from December 17, 1947, to August 11, 2023, fulfilling his personal mission statement, “to live a full, rich, well-balanced, Christ-centered life of disinterested benevolence with eternity in view.”
Background
HEWITT
A native of Chicago, Illinois, Kibble began his educational achievements at Broadview Academy in La Fox, Illinois. He subsequently graduated from Atlantic Union College, South Lancaster, Massachusetts; Andrews Theological Seminary, Berrien Springs, Michigan; New York Theological Seminary, New York, New York; and four residencies at the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, South Hamilton, Massachusetts. In 1971, he married the former Jewel L. Peck of Mt. Vernon, New York, a nurse and musician. Their union expanded to include two sons, Santo
and Jason, a daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren, Trinity, Jason, Hailey and Cidney.
As a third-generation Adventist minister, Kibble’s career began and blossomed in the Allegheny East Conference. There, he served as pastor to several churches: Berea Temple, Baltimore, Maryland; in New Jersey, Englewood Church, Englewood; Beth-el Church, Jersey City; Montclair; First Church – Paterson; Calvary, Newport News, Virginia; Trinity Temple, Newark, New Jersey and Ebenezer, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Known as a true statesman and mentor, it was no surprise that Kibble was elected to serve as part of AEC’s leadership team. In May of 1984, he was elected executive secretary, serving through 1987. In May of 1987, he became the AEC Director of Church Ministries and Ministerial Director.
In 1989, he became the fifth AEC President, serving through 2000. His leadership impacted many who served during his administration.
“Elder Kibble was a leader who wanted the best for you and expected the best from you. He poured into you. You never wanted to disappoint him,” said Robert Patterson, former AEC Under treasurer and current Bermuda Conference Treasurer.
Gwen Bradford-Norwood, who served as his assistant at AEC for more than 13 years, spoke of his love for excellence, “When Elder Kibble saw potential, he gave a person the opportunity to develop their skills. He helped several employees of AEC expand their horizons by sponsoring a trip to Israel in 1999.”
Among other accomplishments, during his tenure at AEC, he was credited with facilitating the development of AEC’s current core values (particularly innovation and excellence), promoting the inclusion of all ethnic groups, and hiring AEC’s first female pastor. Those who served under his leadership can quote verbatim his proclamation of AEC’s “three sacred dates: 1. Spring Workers Meeting; 2. Camp Meeting; and 3. Fall Workers Meeting.”
North American Division Kibble went on to join the North American Division (NAD) in 2001, where he served as vice president for 20 years before retiring, making him the longest-serving employee. Kibble provided oversight for executive training, coaching, and development; Public Affairs and Religious Liberty; big data analytics and social media; and literature ministries.
While at the NAD, Kibble also served as the chair of Breath of Life Television Ministry’s executive committee, and a board member for Liberty magazine, Pine Forge Academy, and Oakwood University. He was also a committee member for PARL Advisory and NAD Litigation.
Throughout his lifetime, Kibble received numerous honors, including Atlantic Union College’s Alumnus of the Year in 1998; a Lifetime Achievement in Church Administration from the NAD’s Pastoral Evangelism and Leadership Council, as well as an honorary doctorate from Andrews University in 2017.
Kibble was a strong advocate of all Regional Conferences and their mission. He represented the interest of the Regional Conferences and ministries at the NAD. He was passionate about sharing their history and speaking about injustices against all people groups.
One of his most notable contributions to the regional work was his role, along
KIBBLE WAS A STRONG ADVOCATE OF ALL REGIONAL CONFERENCES AND THEIR MISSION .
with Joseph McCoy, in leading the creation of the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP) in 2000. This defined benefit plan, holds all nine Regional Conferences as employers responsible for their employees’ retirement.
Personally Speaking Kibble’s personal interests included travelling, (having visited more than 25 countries), golfing, swimming, horseback riding, and art. As a well-read scholar, he was known for his loquacious tendencies on any topic, anywhere, any time and any place. He also took great joy in inspiring others.
“Elder Kibble had a way of encouraging and being a supporter. He was not afraid to speak truth to power or to share insights,” remembers Juleun Johnson, D.Min, Vice President for Mission at AdventHealth.
May the words from one of his wellknown sermons, “When Ministry Seems Meaningless,” preached at the Pastoral Evangelism and Leadership Conference (PELC) in 1989, encourage all to “see to it with steadfast determination, unfaltering zeal. . .that you pursue the great purpose of your life and the object of your being until, at last, you can say, ‘I have finished the work that God has given me to do.’” t
LaTasha Hewitt is Communication Director for the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. She reports extensively for Regional Voice magazine.
Bryant Taylor, D.Min., is Communication Director for the Southern Union of Seventh-day Adventists and Editor of Southern Tidings magazine. Also Associate Editor of Regional Voice magazine, he coordinated this coverage.
Ifirst met Elder Kibble “1,000 years ago,” when he came to Cleveland, Ohio, to be the Baccalaureate Service speaker for my eighth grade graduation from Ramah Jr. Academy. He was a very young pastor at that time, probably just out of the Seventh-day Adventist Seminary. I had no idea what direction my life would take or the great impact that Elder Kibble would have on my life.
I really did not get to know Elder Kibble until I had the privilege to become President of the South Central Conference. Elder Kibble was the Vice President of the North American Division (NAD ). The NAD provides a very good orientation program for new conference administrators. The new leaders are brought to the NAD to receive information and guidance. Elder Kibble was in charge of that orientation program. From that point on in my life, he became a mentor. More than that, he was
HE WAS NOT AFRAID TO SPEAK TRUTH TO POWER OR TO SHARE INSIGHTS .
a friend. Though his experience, expertise and knowledge far exceeded mine, he never treated me that way. From our conversations, if I didn’t know better (and I did!), I might have been fooled into thinking that he was picking up a few things from me in our conversations. I knew better—but that is just the way Elder Kibble was.
Elder Shirley Scott and the Women’s Ministries Department in South Central gave me the great honor of an inauguration when I began my presidential service. I had the opportunity of choosing the speaker for the inauguration. I asked Elder Kibble and he accepted. My family and I were greatly honored.
Elder Kibble knew my wife and children by name. He would ask about them and when we prayed together, he would pray for them by name.
Once when I was walking for exercise in Huntsville before a meeting, Elder Kibble passed me in his car and waved. Ever after, he would ask me if I was keeping up with my walking and encouraged me to take care of myself. He knew I was in a pretty high-stress position.
When I left South Central and accepted the call to the Office of Regional Conference Ministries, I was able to continue to work with Elder Kibble. He was a walking history book in terms of African-American Adventist history. One of the major meetings where it was decided that we would have Regional Conferences was held at the Shiloh SDA Church
Alvin Maurice Kibble, former vice president for the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, passed to his rest on Friday evening, August 11, 2023, in Temecula, California, after a fall that resulted in a brain injury. Kibble served in ministry for more than 50 years. A seasoned pastor and administrator, he pastored eight churches and contributed more than 35 years in church administration. He was 76.
in Chicago, in the 1940s. Elder Kibble’s father was pastor at the time. Elder Kibble not only knew Adventist African-American history, he knew the people who made that history. He passed a number of historical documents on to me. I often asked him to be sure to write a book on Adventist African-American history.
Even after Elder Kibble retired, we would occasionally talk by phone. He was always kind and affirming. I was hopeful that he would be able to come and visit us in the new office building that the Lord gave us last fall. I think he planned to come, but I think that may have been about the time his health began to decline.
Not long ago, Mrs. Edmond and I were in Southern California, visiting the Riverside Kansas Avenue Church where Dr. Donovan Washington pastors. The Lord impressed me to reach out that morning to Mrs. Jewel Kibble, to check on Elder Kibble. I did not know it but Kansas Avenue is where Mrs. Kibble attends.
She told me that Elder Kibble was hospitalized, about 90 minutes away. Even though the hospital was in the opposite direction of where we were going and our plane was leaving that night, we skipped Sabbath dinner and drove an hour and a half to see Elder Kibble. We could see that he was not doing well. I don’t think he knew that we were there, but I am glad that we were there. We knew then that it was quite possibly
the last time we would see him on this earth. And it was.
A few weeks ago, I celebrated the 45th anniversary of the day I began ministry. I cannot believe that all those years have come and gone and that my time in ministry is almost up. A few months ago, I told my wife and children and a few other people the date when I plan to—as we used to say in my Youth Director days—”ride on off into the sunset.” It’s hard to imagine that is where I am—but, that is where I am.
When Elder Kibble retired from the NAD, I wrote an article on him for the Regional Voice. In it, Elder Kibble said something that I have used from time to time—and I’ll close by using it again. Elder Kibble said of his ministry, ”I owe so much to so many.”
So do I, Elder Kibble. And near the top of the list of people I owe is Elder Alvin M. Kibble. So, even though you can’t hear me, Elder, thanks. Thanks for everything that you did for this church— and for everything that you did for me. I’ll miss you now—but I plan to see you soon. t
Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), is also publisher of Regional Voice magazine. He counted the life rendered by Elder Kibble a true blessing.
“Elder Kibble was far ahead of the NAD in terms of how we used big data and social media in a big way. He pressed the administration to jump into that arena,” said G. Alexander Bryant, NAD president. “It was a true delight to work shoulder-to-shoulder with him,” added Bryant. “Elder Kibble was a true visionary; he
modeled servant leadership in a supreme manner. He was a personal friend, mentor, and colleague. I often turned to him for counsel and advice in critical matters, and I always marveled at how balanced he could approach almost any issue.”
Bryant continued, “He was the spiritual conscience of the North American Division and his counsel was received because of the genuine love that emanated from him to all who were in the sphere of his influence.”
“Elder Kibble was an incredible leader, phenomenal mentor, and wonderful friend,” commented Tony Anobile, vice president of Church Ministries for the Southwestern Union Conference, and former NAD vice president for Multilingual Ministries, upon hearing of Kibble’s death.
Anobile’s comment on Facebook con-
tinued: “He genuinely cared about everyone and had a passion for seeing God’s church thrive. An incredible historian, his insights and wisdom were always treasured.”
“Elder Kibble was a man of prayer, and he was big on building relationships, on treating people with respect, and treating them well with class,” said Maricel Pascual, Kibble’s administrative assistant and current administrative assistant for the NAD president. “He was a rare blend of an exceptional leader and a genuine human being. My regard for him is nothing short of the highest esteem.” t
News Article, provided by the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, August, 2023, can be found in its entirety on the NAD website.
1. Our first meeting during a Sunday morning pickup basketball game at his alma mater, Atlantic Union College, in February 1968;
2. Marrying Jewel Peck, my fellow Northeastern Conference Victory Lake Junior Camper from the early 1960s, who later became my fellow 1977 classmate and graduate from Hampton Institute, Hampton, Virginia;
3. Becoming our Pastor and First Lady at the Calvary SDA Church, Newport News, Virginia, and his memorable “Step Up to Happiness” evangelistic crusade;
4. Consenting to say grace at the wedding reception for Tim and Elaine Allston, in November 1994;
5. Becoming a first client for my Allston Communications, Inc. consultancy, when my wife and I co-hosted the 1995 “Health, Healing, and Happiness” special camp meeting weekend at Hampton University;
6. Being the Regional Conference
President who championed the ORCM sponsorship of our Richard Smallwood Master Class and Concert in December 1999 at Oakwood College, where I then served as both PR director and Aeolians tour manager; and finally
7. Serving as the NAD VP, whose impassioned speech to the Regional Presidents in January 2005 kick-started the return of this Regional Voice magazine where I served as managing editor until 2017.
In tribute to his Life and personal Legacy to me, I offer:
“The Funeral Poem”
By Summer Sandercox“Not how did he die, but how did he live?
Not what did he gain, but what did he give?
“These are the units of measure to determine the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
“Not what was his church, but what was his creed?
And how he befriended those really in need.
“Was he ever ready with words of good cheer
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
“Not what did the sketch in the newspapers say,
But how many were truly sorrowful when he passed away.”
Rest In Peace, Pastor/Client/Cheerleader/Personal Friend, Alvin Maurice Kibble. t
Tim Allston is a Leadership Coach and three-time Amazon Best-Selling Author.
Ninety seconds of gratitude, God’s Plan, plus God’s Favor, equals Something Better.
Ed Talk with “Blessings” singer and songwriter Laura Story.
Selfies with “My Redeemer Lives” songstress/songwriter Nicole C. Mullen. Prayer journals.
Spaces and places filled with peals of laughter, hugs, handshakes, reunions, and so much more—the 2023 North American Division Educators’ Convention was just what many needed in a post-COVID climate.
“I enjoyed all the different speakers –each of them had a special purpose to play in encouraging us not to give up and reminding us we are doing the right thing,” said Patricia Hodge, who teaches first through third grades in the South Atlantic Conference at Gethsemane Christian Seventh-day Adventist School in Raleigh, North Carolina. Hodge, was one of 5,500 attendees who convened in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, at the city’s convention center for the four-day conference. She was especially charged by NAD President Dr. G. Alexander Bryant’s message during the closing commitment ceremony.
“My takeaway was in spite of how things might look, there’s a greater plan
in store, so we need to tap into Christ and the Holy Spirit and keep that at the top of our mind,” Hodge said.
The Educators’ Convention, the fifth installment, happening every five years, took place in early August just before schools across the NAD began opening their doors to welcome students to the 2023-2024 school year. The event featured a host of renowned pastors including Southwest Region Conference President Carlton P. Byrd and Pastor Donnette Blake from the Northeastern Conference. It also featured many keynote speakers who focused on the NAD’s push toward standards-based instruction along with those who encouraged educators to attend to their mental health and self-care. Breakout sessions covered a plethora of topics in many subject areas, and a new segment called Ed Talks—fashioned after the popular TED Talks—were a welcome addition.
Middle school educator Janviere Lavender, who has attended the past three conventions, left the conference feeling “pumped and ready to serve my students.”
“I absolutely love these conventions,” said Lavender, who teaches fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grade social studies and writing at Allegheny West Conference’s Ramah Christian Academy in Cleveland, Ohio.
"Not only are we able to learn new things or reinforce what we already use, but we get to do this with Adventist edu-
cators,” said Lavender, who also presented a breakout session titled, “Connect 5! The Classroom is Alive” at this year’s convention. Lavender’s hands-on workshop taught educators “how to connect adventurous experiences to student learning.”
DonnaMarie Armstrong, a sixth through 12th grade science teacher at Northeastern Adventist Academy in Brooklyn, New York, in the Northeastern Conference, shared a similar sentiment of always leaving the educators’ convention “with a sense of excitement
and newfound knowledge.” Like Lavender, this was the third convention she has attended.
“In Phoenix, Arizona, the speakers were engaging, the workshops informative, and the discussions thought-provoking,” Armstrong said. “I met and exchanged ideas and perspectives with many interesting people from all over the country … I now have a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to apply what I learned to both my personal and professional life.”
Armstong added attending the convention reminded her she is not alone.
“As I listened to the keynote speakers at the convention, I felt relieved to hear them highlight the significance and difficulties of Christian education,” she said. “It was comforting to know that I was not the only one dedicating myself to teaching Christian education and that my efforts were truly impactful.”
NAD Vice President for Education
Arne Nielsen said the educator conventions were designed for the very purposes mentioned by Hodge, Lavender, and Armstrong. They are intended to offer professional development, networking, system unity, and a tangible way of saying “thank you.” He said educators should have left with the following key takeaways:
• That God has called us to “Something Better” on behalf of our students through the mission and philosophy of Adventist education.
• That the NAD cares about educators, who are the hands and feet of Jesus each day that they stand before learners.
• That Adventist education is the longest evangelistic series in the Adventist church.
Nielsen and his team spent the better part of two years planning for the Phoenix convention. Chariolett Johnson, who served as director of event management services for the convention, said planning an event of this magnitude has its challenges, but the end result made it worthwhile.
“Hearing screams on this corner and that corner, from teachers who had not seen one another for a long time; walking into the resource center and seeing teachers engaged with exhibitors who were getting facetime—every time I went in there you could feel the energy
in the place,” Johnson said. “It was good to see the content, speakers, and attendees come alive … because that’s really what you’re doing – creating an experience for them to take away from.”
Nielsen hopes when educators reflect over this past year’s convention, they arrive at the same conclusion he did over those four days.
“After the pandemic, we as educators needed to connect and tell our stories,” Nielsen said.
“While the NAD Education Team made a great effort to find outstanding speakers, a variety of music styles, innovative presentations, and quality entertainment, it was those serendipitous moments in the hall or at dinner that brought about conversations and happy moments and memories.”
Alyssa Minisee-Broome, based in Walla Walla, Washington, is one who will cherish the delightful conversations and memories she made with educators visiting her booth in the exhibit hall.
Minisee-Broome, a former educator in the Florida Conference and Allegheny West Conference, attended previous conventions in Chicago and Nashville as a teacher. This year, the stay-at-homemom of two young sons attended this year’s convention to spark an air of excitement for teachers kicking off their school year. Her booth – based on her online teacher resource business brand Teacher Noire – featured a snazzy backdrop with positive affirmations where teachers could take selfies and photos to make their day. Leading up to the conference, Minisee-Broome regularly posted on the convention app sharing about resources she would bring such as a prayer journal that has revolutionized her life. She also brought three suitcases filled with T-shirts donning messages that celebrate diversity and empower teachers and students. Setting up shop at the convention “was a dream come true,” said Minisee-Broome.
“At the beginning of 2023, I started my list of 300 different things I wanted to do and accomplish this year, [and] one was being accepted as a vendor for the
teacher conference,” she said. The journey was not easy, and there were moments when she did not know if she would be able to bring her dream to fruition.
“I hit walls … but I trusted God, and my mom asked what I would need to get there, so I shared with her, and I got a small loan from my mom which helped me buy the inventory I needed to take to the convention,” said Minisee-Broome. She is a firm believer that applying Habakkuk 2:2 to her life and writing her “300 List” on the pages of her prayer journal were major contributing factors to her success at the convention.
“From the second the doors opened (to the exhibit hall), I was swamped,” she beamed. “It was so life changing for me – stepping out of my comfort zone and doing something I wanted to do and trusting God in the process.”
Not to mention, she had several reunions with former colleagues and made lots of new friends.
Although plans have yet to be an-
nounced for the next educator convention – slated for 2028 – Nielsen says to stay tuned as the location and theme will be determined in the coming months. As organizers debrief about this past year’s convention, Hodge, Lavender, and Armstrong readily offer up some suggestions.
One of Hodge’s favorite sessions dealt with a program titled the Science of Reading. Hodge raved about the program, but she would like to attend a workshop that teaches how to integrate this program with Pathways, the English Language Arts curriculum utilized by the NAD. Also, she would appreciate if the breakout sessions offered in the mornings could also be offered in the afternoons. As it stands, many sessions only are offered once but may conflict with another good session one wants to attend. Hodge believes this dilemma could be easily solved if the sessions were offered more than once.
Lavender would like to see more “down time” allotted for educators to socialize with new and familiar teachers.
“For example, the convention could include a themed social night of fun and dress-up,” Lavender said.
“We are teachers, and a social night would be an added bonus. It would also be great if open idea-swapping forums could be set up for educators who teach the same grade levels or content areas,
to chat and share. Educators would get together to have open dialogue and discussion on a variety of topics with a panel of facilitators.”
Armstrong chimed in as well, sharing that she looks forward to what she has always enjoyed most: meeting new people, attending informative and engaging seminars, and browsing the latest products and innovations in science, faith, and learning.
“Overall, I hope to gain valuable insights and connections that will enhance my professional development,” Armstrong said.
The 2023 North American Division Educators’ Convention: just what many needed—spaces and places filled with peals of laughter, hugs, handshakes, reunions—and so much more. t
Tamaria Kulemeka is a middle school English Language Arts teacher at Columbus Adventist Academy, Columbus, Ohio, in the Allegheny West Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Bryant Taylor, D.Min., is Communication Director for the Southern Union of Seventh-day Adventists and Editor of Southern Tidings magazine. Also Associate Editor of Regional Voice magazine, he coordinated this coverage.
Despite a record string of daily highs over 110 degrees Fahrenheit in Phoenix, Arizona, the 2023 Black Caucus sessions convened.
From August 2 to 4, 2023, the city became a hub for discussions and strategic planning among leaders from all over North America. This annual gathering brought together an assembly of Black administrators at SDA Conference, Union, Division, and General Conference levels.
Under the leadership of Elder Dana Edmond, Executive Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM), the event became an instrumental platform for fostering unity and camaraderie among Black leaders. The Caucus offered a unique opportunity for these leaders to share insights, experiences and ideas aimed at reinforcing the work within Regional Conferences, the network of West Coast affiliates and the Bermuda Conference.
The spiritual essence of the Caucus was enriched by the contributions of three remarkable individuals: Dr. Abraham Henry, Vice President for Administration of the Lake Region Conference; Dr. Balvin Braham, Vice President of the Inter-American Division; and Calvin B. Preston, President of the South Atlantic Conference. They offered diverse perspectives in their devotionals: Henry’s analogy of growth as shedding old rags; Braham’s focus on the significance of the method of preaching, teaching, healing, and discipleship; and Preston’s eagle metaphor depicting divine care fusing into a holistic narrative of faith, progress, and guidance.
The agenda was marked by a series of concurrent meetings, including conference secretaries, treasurers, ministerial ministries directors, multicultural coordinators, and pastors. These auxiliary sessions enriched the Caucus’s discussions by providing comprehensive reports and perspectives from various sectors of the community.
In his report, Cryston Josiah, Vice President for Administration of Central States Conference, highlighted more than 3,000 baptisms achieved in 2023, including those from the nine regional conferences,
which he represented from the sector of Conference Secretaries. Vanston Archbold, Jr., Vice President for Diversity in the Southwest Region Conference, reported that the multicultural area of the nine conferences comprises in 2023: 296 churches, 129 pastors, and more than 30,000 members. The NextGen group concluded with their solution-based initiatives such as Adventist Christian Fellowship aiming to engage the NextGen population in attending non-Adventist campuses, fostering community and church involvement.
Notably, the Caucus also received significant reports from prominent institutions and entities. Dr. Leslie N. Pollard, President of Oakwood University, conveyed recent advancements with a focus on Vision 2030’s role in global expansion
and curriculum enhancement, and recognized achievements including successful fundraising, enhanced nursing program accreditation, and the upcoming introduction of the Doctor of Ministry program by 2024.
Pastor Debleaire K. Snell presented the Breath of Life (BOL) 2023 Vision, focusing on expanding broadcast reach, launching children’s content, enhancing the BOL Plus App, introducing engaging Sunday morning content, and driving a dynamic social media youth movement.
Carmela Monk Crawford, J.D., presented an update on Message magazine’s expanded reach through digital platforms. Engagement includes daily devotionals on Facebook and an interactive Bible study. Spanish Bible Studies, created and sent to Colombia for evangelism, will reach more souls in new territory. The newly elected President of the Black Adventist Youth Directors Association (BAYDA), Pastor Carl Ming, Youth and Young Adult Director of the Southwest Region Conference, highlighted the urgency of engaging youth in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, due to the significant age gap compared to the national average. He emphasized unity among leaders and youth directors, seeking prayers and collaboration to achieve their mission.
As a fitting conclusion to the event, the lead administrators of the North American Division and the Regional Presidents Council came together. This pivotal meeting served as the culmination of days of deliberation and planning, ensuring that the insights and strategies developed during the Caucus find their way into actionable steps at
the higher levels of leadership.
According to North American Division President G. Alexander Bryant: “The Black Caucus is important because it gives the Regional leaders, the Black leaders, an opportunity to collaborate and come up with best practices and help steer the work in the North American Division among regional conferences and Black constituents to be most impactful. I think they have served well through the years, and they’ve continued to serve our church. What happens here impacts the rest of the church. And so, we appreciate and value the ministry of the Black Caucus.”
The Black Caucus exemplifies a remarkable assembly of visionary minds and passionate hearts. Even during the blazing Phoenix heat wave, thorough, thoughtful deliberations, strategic planning, and the spirit of togetherness marked this annual event and reaffirmed the commitment of Black leaders to steer the course of Regional Conferences, West Coast affiliates and the Bermuda Conference toward a future brimming with promise and possibilities.
Testimonies:
Virgil S. Childs, director of the Office of Regional Ministries for African American Affairs:
“This caucus allows me to network with my colleagues in terms and understand what we have in common, and what we can do collectively to be more effective and relevant for the Black world.”
Vanston Archbold, Jr., Vice President
for Diversity in the Southwest Region Conference:
“The Black Caucus keeps us united, focused. We support each other, and we help each other in regard to the mission, regardless of the needs that we have in our different fields. The Office of the Regional Conferences is a blessing for all our conferences, it supports us in every single way. It keeps us united working together for the Kingdom of God.”
Jasmine Best, NextGen Representative:
“The Black Caucus is very necessary and important because we need to know the history and we need to continue the work. There’s so much that has been done by the Regional Conferences that can only be put forth in the future by regional conferences, and who can do that? But our generations that are coming up now and beyond. And so, it is important for us to spread the word, get the information out, and also to be visible so that we can do the work, but do it happily and with full understanding.”
Sergio Romero, Multicultural Representative:
“The main reason for us as multicultural leaders to come to the Black Caucus meetings is to be able to share with one another, to be part of a bigger body of churches and brethren, and to organize and plan together how to move forward with a mission.” t
Gerson Pancorbo is the Communications Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. He conducted live coverage to complete this report.
Mrs. Sabrina Cotton De-Souza was recently elected to serve as the Associate Treasurer for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. This election comes after Mrs. DeSouza served as Vice President for Financial Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Oakwood University for 21 years.
Upon graduating from Southern Adventist University, Mrs. DeSouza began her ministry in 1989 as an auditor for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. After serving there for seven years, she was called to what was then Oakwood College as Chief Accountant.
She ascended the Oakwood financial ladder through various promotions, first as Assistant Vice President, then Controller, until 2002, when she became Vice President for Finance. She served as the Oakwood Chief Financial Officer until her election as General Conference Associate Treasurer earlier in 2023. In addition to her bachelor’s degree from Southern Adventist University, Mrs. DeSouza holds a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Alabama. Married to John DeSouza, they are the proud parents of Brandon and Brianna.
We thank Mrs. Sabrina Cotton DeSouza for her long and faithful service to Oakwood and wish her well as she transitions to serve the world church. t
The recently opened Charles E. Dudley Sr. Center for Regional Conferences recently welcomed a new addition—a brand new media studio to be used by the Office for Regional Conference Ministries(ORCM) and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP).
In the original building design, the plan was for ORCM and RCRP to use the Breath of Life studio for their media needs. But when Communications Director Elder Gerson Pancorbo arrived in March from a similar position at the Allegheny West Conference, he shared a different vision. He believed communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ and the story of Regional Conferences required a dedicated studio for ORCM and RCRP.
But where could such a studio be housed? The fivemonth-old Dudley Center was 99 percent complete. All the rooms in the 32,000-foot structure were occupied.
Since Elder Pancorbo had designed the current studio for the Allegheny West Conference, this was not a problem. He had experience in maximizing available space. A storage room would be large enough to become a studio. Once his neighbors agreed to relocate their items, a studio began to take shape.
The space is equipped with three video sets; one photography/green screen set; three cameras; and one podcast-ready set. This allows up to four people to be interviewed at one time.
Elder Pancorbo believes that in this social media age, words are not enough. He believes that we need to use every available medium to tell the story of Jesus, His love for humanity and the way He has worked in the Regional Conferences of the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
This studio will help to tell those stories. t
In the spring of 1966, the constituents of the Allegheny Conference voted to divide into two organizations. This was the beginning of the Allegheny East and Allegheny West Conferences, Regional Conferences that would begin operating on January 1, 1967.
Welcome to the second installment of this new series in The Regional Voice on the nine Regional Conferences, the two West Coast Unions, the Bermuda Conference and the individuals who lead them.
We continue with two conferences that originated as one, from the Allegheny Conference which was formed in 1945. This conference encompassed a huge geographical area, stretching from the East Coast across to the Midwest and southward, nearly to the North Carolina state line.
In the spring of 1966, the constituents of the Allegheny Conference voted to divide into two organizations. This was the beginning of the Allegheny East and Allegheny West Conferences, Regional Conferences that would begin operating on January 1, 1967.
We shall share statistical information on both conferences, along with biographical information on the Presidents of each; Allegheny East President, Dr. Marcellas Robinson, and Allegheny West President, Elder Marvin C. Brown III. t
1967
Headquarters
Boyertown, Pennsylvania (near Pine Forge Academy)
Territory
Delaware, New Jersey and Washington D.C., along with most of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia
Membership
Approximately 33,000
2022 Tithe
Approximately $38.2 million President
Dr. Marcellas Robinson
Executive Officers:
Elder Gary Wimbish, Vice President for Administration
Elder Lawrance Martin, Vice President for Finance
•
Dr. Marcellas Robinson – Biographical and Professional Data
Birthplace
Cumberland, Virginia
Years as President
One year
Previous Position
Vice President for Administration, Allegheny East Conference
Number of Years in Previous Position
Six years
Years in Ministry
40 years
Married To The Former Maryann Lewis, from Nassau, Bahamas
Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM) and publisher of Regional Voice magazine, compiled the data for this Special Report.
Welcome to the second installment of this new series in The Regional Voice on the nine Regional Conferences, the two West Coast Unions, the Bermuda Conference and the individuals who lead them.
We continue with two conferences that originated as one, from the Allegheny Conference which was formed in 1945. This conference encompassed a huge geographical area, stretching from the East Coast across to the Midwest and southward, nearly to the North Carolina state line.
In the spring of 1966, the constituents of the Allegheny Conference voted to divide into two organizations. This was the beginning of the Allegheny East and Allegheny West Conferences, Regional Conferences that would begin operating on January 1, 1967.
We shall share statistical information on both conferences, along with biographical information on the Presidents of each, Allegheny East President, Dr. Marcellas Robinson, and Allegheny West President, Elder Marvin C. Brown III. t
Founded
1967
Headquarters
Columbus, Ohio
Territory
Ohio, West Virginia and portions of Pennsylvania and Virginia
Membership
Approximately 11,000
2022 Tithe
Approximately $8.4 million
President
Elder Marvin C. Brown III Executive Officers
Elder Joel Johnson, Executive Vice President
Mrs. Keisha Stubbs-Bone, Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer
•
Elder Marvin C. Brown III – Biographical and Professional Data
Years as President
Two
Previous Position
Executive Vice President, Allegheny West Conference
Number of Years in Previous Position
Seven years
Years in Ministry
41
Married to the Former Grace Brown, from Zambia, Africa
Flooding - September 11, 2023
Dams Burst Derna, Libya – North Africa
Deaths – At Least 11,000
Earthquake – September 8, 2023
6.8 Magnitude
Marrakech, Morocco - North Africa
Deaths – At least 2,900
Hurricane Idalia – August 26, 2023
Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Coast
The Eastern Seaboard
Deaths – At least 4
Hurricane Hilary – August 20, 2023
Pacific Coast
Mexico and Southern California
Extensive Flooding
Fires – August 8, 2023
Lahaina, Maui
Hawaii
Deaths – At least 115
TO HELP:
American Red Cross Website
ADRA Website – Adventist Development and Relief Agency
Note: To minister to the rapidly growing retirement sector of the Adventist Church, the Regional Conference Retiree Plan (RCRP), through its Association for Development, Enrichment and Lifelong Learning (ADEL), has begun a special series of targeted programs, publications and educational resources for the retirement community. The goal is to highlight best practices, profile retirees and develop new avenues to communicate, enrich and support. These services flow through a variety of media platforms, such as articles, podcasts, the Regional Voice, the online ADEL Monthly Programs (AMPs) and other social media.
Dr. Rock has been inspirational as a pastor, educator, administrator and now as a retiree.
A native of New York City, Calvin B. Rock (b. July 4, 1930) spent his childhood in New York, Philadelphia and Los Angeles. He is a product of Christian education that culminated with his graduation from Oakwood College (1954). His graduate education included a master’s degree and two doctorate degrees. As a third-generation Adventist, Dr. Rock firmly believes in the efficacy of the Word of God.
In 1953 he married the former Clara Peterson and together they began 65 years of productive ministry.
The Rocks were the parents of three daughters
THE GOAL IS TO HIGHLIGHT BEST PRACTICES, PROFILE RETIREES AND DEVELOP NEW AVENUES TO COMMUNICATE, ENRICH AND SUPPORT.
(Cheryl, Celia and Connie); and have several grandchildren and great grandchildren. His years of ministry included multiple assignments, pastorates and service in the Southern Union Conference. In 1971, he became the eighth President of Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) in Huntsville, Alabama. In 1985, he became a Vice President of the General Conference. During that time, he chaired the boards of both Loma Linda University and the Medical
Center. Additionally, he served as chair of the Oakwood College Board of Trustees (2000-2006). After his 2002 retirement from the General Conference, Dr. Rock spent 11 years pastoring in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Phoenix, Arizona. His ministry has included major evangelistic campaigns in the U.S., Europe, Africa and Russia. Following the death of his wife, Clara, after a marriage of 65 years, he was blessed to meet and wed his present wife, the former Sharon Kay Kelly.
Dr. Rock is the author of eight books. His latest publication, Protest and Progress (2018), is widely recognized as one of the most important statements on Black SDA history. In 1995, he founded Operation Reach Back (ORB), Inc. and the Association of Black Seventh-day Adventist Professionals, an organization dedicated to the recognition of the social aspects of the gospel. He remains chair of the ORB Board.
Retirement Possibilities
Baker: Greetings Dr. Rock. Retirement, sometimes referred to as the Third Chapter of Life, is time to reflect, recharge, refocus. As you know, the Regional Conference Retirement Plan sees retirement as a time for retirees to continue to serve, develop and expand their potential. Ellen White’s classic quotations on retirement are an encouragement: First: “The true minister [and worker] may make continual improve-
AFTER HIS 2002 RETIREMENT FROM THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, DR. ROCK SPENT 11 YEARS PASTORING IN LAS VEGAS,NEVADA, AND PHOENIX, ARIZONA .
ment. The afternoon sun of his life may be more mellow and productive of fruit than the morning sun. It may continue to increase in size and brightness until it drops behind the westernized hills” (RH, April 6, 1886, par 5). Second, “It was after John had grown old in the service of his Lord [on Patmos] that he received more communications from heaven than he had received during all the former years of his life” – {AA 572.2}. I know you believe and seek to reflect these principles.
You’ve been blessed to establish a leadership legacy; now you are an inspiration in retirement. Let’s talk about good retirement practices and how to deepen them.
Rock: Retirement is a time of reflection, during which you can get your life together; get your house in order. And, you should enjoy yourself while you’re doing it. Theologically and realistically
speaking, unless the Lord intervenes, our lives end at some point. So, retirement is that space and period where you can objectively and methodically prepare.
What does the Bible say? (See Psalm 90:10-12). I’ve already been blessed with more than threescore and ten years. This is that period when each day becomes more precious. It’s our privilege to be alive and to seek wisdom from God and make the best of our days.
Mature Mentality
Rock: Retirement doesn’t have to be scary. We know there is a limit to our years. We don’t know when the end is coming but we do know we are in the hands of the Lord. Our life is in His control. There is peace in remembering that He’s blessed in previous years and He will bless now. Further, I like to keep in mind God’s promise to “give fruit in old age” (Psalm 92:14). I believe that means we should be as happy, active and productive as long as possible.
Rock: Of all the places I could be, Las Vegas, Nevada, works for me. My former wife, Clara Peterson Rock, who died in June of 2018, selected Las Vegas because she was informed by doctors and others that the dry air and warm weather would be good for her general health. Earlier, I had promised her that she could decide where we lived in retirement. She and my three daughters had to sacrifice and move so many places when I was transferred in ministry. So, when she chose Las Vegas, it was settled with no discussion. I kept my word to her, moved here and it has been a blessing. I am fortunate that not only did she enjoy it here but so does my present, better half, Sharon.
Rock: Preparation for retirement may mean different things for different people. For me, it means that while doing speaking, writing, and sharing whatever counsel I can, I am organizing sermons and papers. Getting them entered and
formatted so that they may make an impact for the future. Retirement is a good time to decide what is worth keeping and what to let go. Discover what’s important to you and do that.
The sentimental attachments you have, like precious books and golf balls, etc., (laughter), you can give away and throw away what you don’t need. Pare down in every area of life. Practice living with the essentials.
Rock: Why do I find retirement ejoyable? Number one, you can go to sleep and wake up when you’re ready. I can even get a nap sometimes during the day. After six and a half decades of travel, meetings, speaking and administrating, a simple freedom like that is appreciated. In fact, if you and I weren’t talking, I might be taking a nap now (laughter). I try to walk every day and golf occasionally. I don’t have the energy and elasticity that I use to, but I can manage.
Providing Care
Rock: One of the supreme joys of my life and ministry was providing care for my late wife, Clara. But that is what marriage is about, you love and care for each other. I was inspired in my experience of caregiving by the way Dr. E. E. Cleveland, one of my heroes, took care of his wife Celia, who was also sick for many years. All of us preachers owe a special debt to our spouses!
End of Life Planning
Baker: As you know we have the beautiful Oakwood Memorial Gardens in Huntsville. You remember in 2000 when you were the Chairman of the Oakwood Board and I was Oakwood College President. It was during that time that we established the Oakwood Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Elder Calvin Moseley, with Dr. Mervyn Warren’s facilitation, was the first to be interred there. Susan and I have plots reserved there for when we need them. People laughed then. But now the cemetery is a true service to the local and broader Black Adventist com-
munity and a source for student scholarships. What are your thoughts on end of life matters?
Rock: That’s right, I remember when you brought up the idea of creating a cemetery, I wondered if you were hallucinating! But it turned out to be a blessing in multiple ways. When I think back, I’m pleased that Business Manager Adel Warren led out in the purchasing of that property many years ago and I thank God for the vision He gave you for its usage. So, yes, I do think about such things. My former wife is interred in the Columbarium there.
If the Lord doesn’t come, I have decided to donate my body to science. They can examine and see what’s going on in the body of this long-term health-reformer. I hope the evidences will be a positive confirmation of the gospel we preach. My remains will probably rest in the Memorial Gardens as well. Meanwhile, let us all pray, “Come quickly, Lord Jesus!”
Legacy Thinking Baker: Thank you, Dr. Rock. Please
share a closing thought!
Rock: This has been pleasant. You referred to the two Ellen White retirement quotes. I recommend them as well. If we accept the challenge, we can make continuous development in our retirement years. And, equally important, we can decide how productive our final years will be. Finally, I close the way I ended all those graduation ceremonies at Oakwood: “Go on, go on, go on, go on…” as joyfully and productively as you can! t
Dr. Delbert W. Baker, Director of Research and Development for the Regional Conference Retirement Plan, met with Dr. Calvin B. Rock at his Las Vegas home. Dr. Rock has been extensively interviewed on ministry, leadership and the Black Work. This interview focused on wide-ranging topics about maximizing life and service during the retirement years.
1. Q: Most enjoyable aspect of ministry?
QA: Knowing that I’ve helped people.
2. Q: Greatest challenge of your career?
A: Accomplishing all my dreams.
3. Q: Advice to someone just starting their career?
A: Save a little money from every paycheck.
4. Q: What’s a constant since you started ministry in the 1950s?
A: Human nature!
5. Q: What has changed most since you started?
A: Lack of loyalty to church organization and authority.
6. Q: What’s your major accomplishment; biggest challenge?
A: Helping others; The road less traveled.
7. Q: List a professional skill or goal for everyone to strive toward.
A: Diplomacy.
8. Q: As one matures in ministry, what’s a principle challenge?
A: Maintaining relevance.
9. Q: What’s the best way to prepare for and remain strong in retirement?
A: Be at peace with God.
10. Q: What are your favorite inspiration sources?
A: Bible—Psalm 91:14-16; People—Apostle Paul and Martin Luther; Book— The Desire of Ages.
1 Inclusion – Seek Community vs. Isolationism
Radiate: love, inclusion and cooperation
2. Loyalty – Inspire Allegiance vs. Selfishness
Demonstrate: conviction, ethics and self-control
3. Sacrifice – Pursue Self-Denial vs. Self-Comfort
Cultivate: dedication, selflessness and esprit de corps
4. Trust — Choose Confidence vs. Suspicion
Encourage vulnerability, forgiveness and personal integrity
5. Prioritization — Promote Growth vs. Fixation
Validate: intuition, discrimination and courage
6. Primacy — Dependability vs. Exceptional
Elevate: concern, discretion and diplomacy
7. Servanthood: We vs. I
Advocate: servant, collegiality and sharing mentality
Qualifying High School students are now eligible to enroll in two courses per semester starting in their junior year. Juniors and Seniors who have a 3.0 GPA or higher can now earn dual enrollment credits. Dual Enrollment offers students an opportunity to earn university *transferable credits while still in high school—9-12 credit hours at no cost to the student per academic year (Fall/Winter Break, Spring/Summer), not to exceed 2 courses per semester.
*To find out more, contact the Registrar at your participating school today. oakwood.edu
Noun [U] /hu mil-l-ti/ the feeling or attitude that you have no spe cial importance that makes you better than others; lack of pride
From humble beginnings, James Obadiah Best was born on February 7, 1938 in Goldsboro, North Carolina, deep in the Tobacco Road section of Eastern Car olina. His parents, Elijah and Sarah Best, eked out a living, while strug gling to raise and feed nine children, (five boys and four girls) in the brutally segre gated South. The promise of the eventual life that James would lead was not evident in the early stages of his life.
Given the relative poverty he grew up in, and in a house filled with siblings, he went to work early in life. In the harvest months of July and August, when the summer sun was most intense, he worked the fields picking the biggest cash crop in North Carolina, tobacco. He made pen nies on the dollar. He picked cotton as well. One of his side jobs was digging for worms to sell to fishermen down by the river near his home.
The Black church has always been the place, especially in the early decades of the 20th Century, where young people got community encouragement to go for ward. The counsel to young James from those in his church community — be cause he showed early promise — was to stay in school; get an education. The idea was to steer him away from the practice of his peers of leaving school early to pur sue quick money, only to get stuck work
HE HAD THE HONOR OF PASTORING IN ADDITION TO HIS INITIAL CHURCHES: IMMANUEL TEMPLE CHURCH, DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA; IN FLORIDA, MT. SINAI, ORLANDO; PATMOS CHAPEL, WINTER PARK, AND MT. OLIVE, APOPKA. HE ALSO LED AT SHILOH, CINCINNATI, OHIO, AND ETHNAN TEMPLE, WILKINSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA
JOY
ing in the fields and with agricultural plants for the rest of their lives. James listened; he was the first in his family to not only graduate from high school, but to graduate from college!
To constantly, regularly, or habitually engage in earnest and energetic work: indus-
James attended Oakwood College, a small HBCU in Huntsville, Alabama, where he prepared himself academically for the ministry. As always, he was challenged with paying for his schooling. He had no money, scholarships, or family financial support. So, he did his usual: he went to work—supporting himself through college. He worked in the college cafeteria, sold religious books in the summer as a colporteur, and did other odd jobs just to
The Lord was with young
He graduated from Oakwood College. But his educational pursuit was not over. He enrolled in the Seventh-day Adventist Seminary on the campus of Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Again, he had no money or conference sponsorship, though some of his colleagues did. He had to work. His work paid off in unexpected ways. In the summer of 1965, he went to Greensboro, North Carolina, to work as Associate Evangelist with Dr. Lloyd Rahming, pastor of the Greensboro church.
:the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires: Delight It was during that amazing summer that he met Nettie Rice, who would become the love of his life. Their lives would never be the same. On July 17, 1966 on a bucolic summer day, in the small city of Greensboro, James and Nettie joined their lives together, thus beginning a journey—an odyssey—that would take them into a life together that neither could have imagined. James and Nettie were blessed with four amazing children, Freddie, Tara, Eric, and Tiffany. James Best was an incredible Dad who demonstrated unconditional love, extraordinary patience, and a willingness to put it all on the line for the wellbeing of his children.
After their wedding, James returned to the seminary with his new wife to complete his studies. And after his time at the seminary, he was hired as a pastor into the South Atlantic Conference. He was given responsibility for five small churches: Greenville, Spartanburg, Greenwood, and Anderson, all in South Carolina, and Ashville, North Carolina. From the beginning, he demonstrated the ability to work hard in serving the people of his district. He was passionate about evangelism and leading people to Christ. James would go on to pastor increasingly larger congregations, with up to 2,000 members. And each of those churches grew substantially. On multiple occasions, he baptized more than 100 souls into the Body of Christ, becoming one of the leading soul winners in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
He had the honor of pastoring in addition to his initial churches: Immanuel Temple Church, Durham North Carolina; in Florida, Mt Sinai, Orlando, Patmos Chapel, Winter Park, and Mt Olive, Apopka. Shiloh, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Ethnan Temple, Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania.
His final pastorate was as Senior Pastor of the Belfort (WHO) Church in Houston, Texas, where, at retirement, he and his wife kept their membership, and continued to serve as members of the
congregation up until early 2023. While in Houston, Pastor Best also had the opportunity to work on behalf of the Real Truth Church.
James had the honor of serving beyond local congregations, as Conference Evangelist for the South Atlantic Conference, and as Ministerial Director, Personal Ministries Director and Community Service Director for the Allegheny West Conference.
One of his greatest JOYS was in mentoring and facilitating a number of young pastors’ entrance into the Gospel ministry, many of whom have gone forward in taking on major denominational responsibilities.
In his spare time, James became a published author, writing his insightful book The Lord is My Shepherd, based on the 23rd Psalm.
:the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in the past, or of a person’s life Pastor James Best was preceded in death by his parents and most of his siblings. He leaves to honor his memory, and continue his legacy: his wife of 57 years, Nettie R. Best of Buford, Georgia; four children: Fredrick Russell (Brenda) of Atlanta, Georgia, Tara Taylor (Bryant) of Buford Georgia; Eric Best of Houston, Texas and Tiffany St. Rose (Kerwin) of Houston, Texas. Two siblings: Naomi Phoenix of Newport News, Virginia, and Dorcas Uzzell, of Goldsboro, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Ashley Jennings, Andy Russell, and Kennedy Best; two great-grandchildren, Logan and Averi Jennings. He also leaves a host of other valued and beloved relatives. James Best acted with HUMILITY, believed in HARD WORK, found JOY in every aspect of his life, and his full LEGACY will only be known at the Second Coming of Jesus! t
Special Thanks to the Best family from Regional Voice magazine for sharing this fitting tribute to the exemplary, consecrated and dedicated life of this leader, Elder James O. Best. His son-in-law, Dr. Bryant Taylor, is Associate Editor for Regional Voice magazine, and contributed greatly to this inspiring narrative.
Jackson Michael Doggette Sr. was born on December 11, 1930, in Chase City, Virginia. The second child born to Herbert Richard Doggette, Sr. (deceased) and Sally Blanche Robertson Doggette (deceased), he was brother to Al Lee (deceased), Edward (deceased), Herbert, Jr., and Gereal.
Jack’s family moved to the Bedford-Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn, New York. As a teen, he won a bet that he could not pass the entrance examination to the prestigious Brooklyn Technical High School. Determined and resolute, he passed the test and chose to concentrate on the first course of study listed, Architecture.
After graduating from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1948, Jack worked as a bicycle messenger, riding through the streets of Brooklyn. He intended to live in Brooklyn forever— however, the Lord had different plans for him. Members at his home church, Bethel SDA, took up a collection and sent him to Oakwood College to study pastoral ministry.
While at Oakwood, Jack was smitten with the lovely Edythe Marie Young, an elementary education student from Los Angeles, California. Two weeks after Edythe’s graduation, the couple married and began their ministerial life together. Nine months later, Linda was born. Four more children were born to their union: Jackson, Jr., James, Joy, and Sylvia.
Jack’s hobbies included golf and eating sweets, which he called “health food.”
During one of his early morning golf rounds, he achieved a hole-in-one. He was also very proud to have played in a foursome with Elgin Baylor, Bill Russell, and Maury Wills.
For 56 years, he served the Seventh-day Adventist Church, pastoring a total of 21 churches, including 13 districts, in four conferences. His first ministerial assignment was pastoring a district that spanned 400 miles with three churches in the Southwest Region Conference (1954-1957). He also pastored in the Southern California Conference (1958-1965 and 1970-1985), the South Central Conference (1965- 1970 and post-retirement), and the Southeastern Conference (1985-1998) where he served as president from 1988 to 1994. In 1965, he accepted a call to pastor the Memphis, Eads, and Clarksdale, district. The Memphis congregation was worshipping at a church building on Mississippi Boulevard that housed a small two-room church school. Seeing the need for expansion, he led the congregation to purchase a larger property on Alcy Boulevard for the church and school. The Lord blessed the church and school to grow.
During the time the congregation was at Alcy Boulevard, the civil rights movement was in full swing. The 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike was impacting the whole city, and Elder Doggette was fully engaged. During the volatile marches, he could be seen in the crowd with his camera around his neck as he helped injured protestors to the South Central Conference Community Service van for medical treatment. On April 4, 1968, while he was attending a joint SDA pastors’ meeting between the South Central Conference and the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference, it was announced that Dr. King had been shot. Shockingly, the pastors from the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference celebrated the news, but Elder Doggette had an overwhelming sense of sadness as he navigated his way back home to avoid the riots and the National Guard.
Little did the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference pastors know Elder Doggette had persuaded the Black Panthers not to burn down their school in retaliation for the murder of Dr. King and their racially insensitive practices. Elder Doggette had influence with the Black Panthers (and the Invaders) be-
cause he worked with them to support their nutrition and clothing drives to make life better for the Black citizens of Memphis.
Elder Doggette’s example had a profound impact on his children and particularly his two sons, both Seventh-day Adventist pastors. They carry on the tradition of being committed to social justice initiatives in line with Christ’s method of winning people for God’s kingdom. Christ mingled with people as One who desired their good, showed sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then, He bade them “Follow Me” (GW363).
In 1969, Elder Doggette and Dr. Calvin B. Rock conducted an evangelistic tent meeting in Memphis that led to 200 baptisms and the need for the congre-
gation to move to a larger facility. That year, the Longview Heights property was purchased, and the church and school continued to grow.
In 1985, Elder Doggette accepted a call to the Bethany SDA Church in Miami, Florida. Three years later, he was elected President of the Southeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and served until 1994. After his time as President, he pastored in the central Florida area until his retirement in September 1998.
In retirement, he continued to work and returned to Memphis to pastor the Word of Life SDA Church for nearly 11 years. After a brief hiatus, he served one final time as the interim pastor of the New Covenant SDA Church in Memphis. In full retirement, Edythe and Jack settled in Memphis to be in close proximity to their progeny. They had been married for nearly 61 years at the time of Edythe’s death on April 26, 2015. Jack then made his final move to Orlando, Florida, and after a prolonged illness, Elder Doggette took his final rest on April 17, 2023, in Apopka, Florida.
A wise, kind, humble man of integrity, he was a shepherd, spiritual father, and mentor.
Elder Doggette leaves to anticipate his resurrection two siblings: Herbert Doggette, Jr. (Betty), and Gereal McCray (Bill); his five children - Linda Doggette Anderson; Jackson Doggette, Jr. (Celia); James Doggette, Sr. (Erin); Joy Doggette Peifer, and Sylvia Darville (Gregory); 18 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; extended family; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, parishioners, colleagues, and friends who expect that at Christ’s return, Jackson Michael Doggette, Sr. will hear the words, “Well done thou good and faithful servant…enter now into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21). t
Special Thanks to the Doggette family from Regional Voice magazine for sharing this tribute to the life and widespread ministry of this committed pastor, community leader, activist and church administrator, Elder Jackson Michael Doggette, Sr.
FOR 56 YEARS, HE SERVED THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, PASTORING A TOTAL OF 21 CHURCHES, INCLUDING 13 DISTRICTS, IN FOUR CONFERENCES.
1953 - 2023
Harold H. Brooks was born October 22, 1953, to the loving arms of Pearlie Mae and Hasting Brooks in Clearwater, Florida. He was raised in a home where the Gospel message was taught every day. He grew up as a member of the Elim Seventh-day Adventist Church, and his parents saw to it that he received an Adventist education. Afterward he attended Pinellas Technical College where he became a skilled plumber.
Harold worked hard as a plumber professionally for 15 years. Once he realized his true calling was of God, with a heart filled with passion and desire to effectively “rightly divide the Word of God,” Harold continued his Christian education at Oakwood University and received his degree in Theology. He spent the next 29 ½ years of his life devoted to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a minister of the Southeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Pastor Brooks was no ordinary minister. Not only did he love the Lord, he loved God’s people and he served faithfully. Over the years he was sent to shepherd over many congregations, and at each church where he went, he showered his congregations with love. He also planted a rose garden for the women at each church, touching the hearts of many. His personal “Missionary Journey,” led him to many churches throughout Florida and Georgia, where he pastored by assignment (see box).
Pastor Brooks, lived his life to the Glory of the Lord. He fed the hungry, gave medicine to the sick, looked after the widows and always gave a hand to those in need. In doing so, he touched many lives and led many souls to Christ. In
his leisure time Pastor Brooks enjoyed football, used his plumbing skills to assist others, and especially enjoyed the solitude of fishing. Yet, nothing gave him greater joy than spending time with the family God blessed him with. On June 27, 2023, God called His faithful servant to eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his parents, Pearlie Mae and Hasting Brooks, and his brother, Anthony Brooks. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Esther Darlene Brooks; children: Briana Ja’Nay Brooks and Chanel Junious; grandchildren: Aram Boyd and Jamar Wooten; brother, Danny Boykins; sisters: Carol Brooks-Bowen, Wanda Brooks-Jones and Deborah Brooks; aunts: Alberta Franco and Amelia Foster; special cousins: Ronad Byard and Stephanie Byard. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends. t
Life has not always been easy, you overcame some difficult times in life. Not only were you a big brother you became a Christian soldier, Husband, father, and a Pastor of the SDA Church. You have touched so many lives. When we think of you, hear or see something that reminds us of you, We may shed some tears or even smile. You are greatly loved and will be deeply missed. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him” (1 Thessalonians 4:14). At that moment, God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things will be passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
Carol A Brooks-BowenFlorida
Bethlehem SDA Church, Clearwater
Daughter of Zion SDA, Delray Beach
Faith SDA Church, Port Charlotte
Mt. Gilead SDA Church, Bradenton
Mt. Olive SDA (Associate Pastor) Apopka
Mt. Sinai SDA Church, Sarasota
Peniel SDA Church, Fort Myers
Town and Country SDA, Tampa
Georgia
Berean SDA Church, Brunswick
Ephesus SDA Church, Cambridge
First SDA Church, Hazel Hurst
First SDA Church, Thomasville
Maranatha SDA Church, Waycross
Trinity Temple SDA Church, Fitzgerald
OVER THE YEARS HE WAS SENT TO SHEPHERD OVER MANY CONGREGATIONS, AND AT EACH CHURCH WHERE HE WENT, HE SHOWERED HIS CONGREGATIONS WITH LOVE.Tampa, Florida Special Thanks to the family of Pastor Harold H. Brooks from Regional Voice magazine for sharing this fitting tribute to the compassionate life and dedicated ministry of this leader, beloved of his family, Pastor Harold H. Brooks.
Who knew that 1923 would be a modest but important starting point for Regional Ministry on the West Coast of the United States? Three institutions that have made a world of difference in the lives of Black Seventh-day Adventists began in the year 1923 – the Market Street Church in Oakland California, the Los Angeles Union School in South Los Angeles California, and Golden Gate Academy in Berkeley, California.
The Market Street Church began in
1923 through the insistence of three pioneering women of faith – Lorraine Vanderberg Mitchell, Marie Kisack and Gertrude Drake. They were joined in ministry in 1924 by Pastor Owen Austin Troy, a recent graduate from Pacific Union College, who had just married his childhood sweetheart – Ruby Bontemps, sister to the famed writer Arna Bontemps. Troy grew up in Los Angeles and attended the Furlong Tract Church (which began in 1908 and is now the University Church), the very first Black SDA Church west of Kansas City. Elder Troy and Dr. V.C. Hamilton
embarked upon an energetic evangelistic and health education program in the West Oakland community and a building was purchased on the corner of 34th and Market Streets for $8,000 in the very first year. Troy, an accomplished concert violinist, was a ministerial powerhouse and the church grew under his leadership. He went on to pastor other major churches around the North American Division including Shiloh in Chicago, Pasadena (where he established the Sweet Chariot Hour radio broadcast), and Dupont Park in Washington, D.C. For a time, Owen Troy was the only
SDA minister with a Doctor of Theology Degree (Th.D.) in the Adventist denomination. He served as Regional Ministries Director of the Pacific Union and finally as Associate Sabbath School Director for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. During its first 50 years, Market Street continued to grow under the leadership of a line of legendary pastors who made a major impact for Christ not only in the Bay Area but in other portions of God’s vineyard. To name a few, they included: Jerrod E. Johnson, Harry B. Dobbins, F. H. Jenkins, R. Wendell Nelson, Harold Lindsey, and William R. Robinson.
Golden Gate Academy (GGA) also began in 1923 as a 12-grade school in Berkeley, California. Different from most Adventist schools of the day, it began with open enrollment to students of
every race and culture. Many Black students attended. Celebrated early Black graduates included: Joseph Dent 1926, educator; Fred Crowe 1934, Regional Conference Treasurer; Frankie Perry 1946, who married Van Runnels (she was one of five sisters who married Adventist ministers and became matriarchs of the Nelson, Canson, Penick and Runnels families); and Jane Phillips 1947, who married David Hughes and served with her husband as early Black missionaries to Liberia, West Africa. 4
As the Market Street Church grew, leaders were planting new congregations in Richmond, Vallejo, Pittsburg, and East Oakland, adding more Black families. So GGA grew, with more Black students. By the mid-1950s, there were students of color in most classes. By the
mid-1970s Blacks outnumbered Whites. The first Black teacher, Anna Montgomery, was hired in 1964, followed later by Irwin Dulan, Boyce Dulan and Carole Anderson, earlier GGA graduates. William R. Wright was the first Black principal, followed by Penny A. Lister, Birdie Williams, and Vernon Norman. All went on to make important contributions to Adventist Education.5
About 400 miles south of Oakland in the City of Angels, the Los Angeles Union Academy, now called Los Angeles Adventist Academy (LAAA), also began in 1923 as an elementary school. It became a full-fledged Academy when a 20-acre site at 846 E. El Segundo Blvd. was purchased and a $200,000 new plant was built in 1946, with an enrollment of 315. The staff of 21 came under the able leadership of Principal Joseph F. Dent Sr. Dent’s reputation as an educator elevated the consciousness of Christian Education and drew a number of Black teachers from across the country to join the faculty, including Gaines Partridge and Garland Millet.
Celebrated principals of the past include P.E Giddings, Gaines Partridge, Lorenzo Paytee, William Wright, and Joseph Dent Jr. Many outstanding leaders, such as Calvin Rock and E. Wayne Shepperd graduated from LAAA. Oper-
ating from 1955 to 1993 as a K-8 school, it was restored to K-12 status in 1993 when secondary students from the former Lynwood Academy transferred to the school. Under the leadership of Carol Todd, LAAA currently operates again as a K-8 school but is planning to add grades 9 and 10 soon.
Los Angeles Adventist Academy celebrated 100 years of service in March 2023 with a full house of alumni and friends. The Market Street Church will celebrate its 100th anniversary November 1-4, 2023. Golden Gate Academy, which was closed by the conference due to excessive debt, has recently paid off its debt and reconstituted its Trustee Board with the hopes of initiating the reopening of the school soon.
We salute the vision and ingenuity of those who planted and grew the seeds of churches and schools in 1923 and since. Who could have known the great harvest that would result from their labors?
God was active a hundred years ago and He is still active today. Reader, you are encouraged to look for and celebrate what God has done and what He is doing now. t
1. Market Street Church 90th Anniversary
Bulletin, 2013 written by Robert E. Chiles.
2. Encyclopedia.adventist.org, Owen Austin Troy, Sr., 2020 by Sydney Freeman, Jr., and Chloe O’Neill.
3. A History of the Market Street Church, 1970, by Andrew R. Mitchell.
4. The 1947 Anchor, Golden Gate Academy Yearbook, p. 56,57.
5. “Our Heritage,” by Boyce Dulan in the 1984 Anchor pp. 18-39.
6. Los Angeles Union Website History
7. North American Informant, Volume 1, Number 5, (1946) p. 10
8. Pacific Union Recorder, July 2, 2002, p. 4
"I'd never been politically inclined, but these things went beyond politics," Bennett wrote in The Good Life "Nate and Duke were geniuses, brilliant human beings who gave the world some of the most beautiful music it's ever heard, and yet they were treated like second-class citizens. The whole situation enraged me."
All of this led him to consider a daring invitation from another friend, Harry Belafonte. Harry wanted him to meet and march with his friend, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., from Selma to Montgomery in 1965. Tony accepted.
"When the march started, I had a strange sense of déjà vu," he wrote. "I kept flashing back to a time twenty years earli-
1926 – 2023
The voice had a hint of gravel, but his delivery was always smooth. He could transport audiences to “the city by the bay” in the first few notes of his timeless trademark, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”
He was born Anthony Dominick Benedetto, August 3, 1926, in Queens, New York. By the time he was 18, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and eventually sent to fight in Germany. He saw the horrors of Nazi domination firsthand, and told how he helped to break that domination as part of a force that liberated the Kaufering Camp, part of the vast Dachau Concentration Complex.
Shortly thereafter the Army, recognizing his talent, assigned him to sing with the 314th Army Special Services Band to entertain the troops. However, he would
soon be an eyewitness to the brutality of this segregated U.S Army. On a Thanksgiving Day while still a soldier, Tony joyfully ran into a high school buddy and fellow musician, Frank Smith. The two attended a church service together and were about to share a meal when an officer spotted them. Black and white soldiers were not allowed to socialize, or even to be seen together. Period. The officer unleashed his wrath on Tony.
“This officer took out a razor blade and cut my corporal stripes off my uniform right then and there,” he wrote in his autobiography, The Good Life. “He spit on them and threw them on the floor.”
The racist officer also saw to it that Bennet was pulled from Special Forces and sent to Graves Registration, where he was given the unspeakable assignment of digging up the bodies of American soldiers
killed in combat for reburial. It was only when another Army officer learned of his plight, that Bennett was taken from this grim duty and sent back to singing for the troops in Europe.
In the end, he was awarded the Bronze Star medal for his service.
By the 1950s, Bennett had left the Army and was pursuing a career in the music business. He mingled with the best in the business. Frank Sinatra himself advised Anthony Dominick Benedetto to shorten his name to Tony Bennett. He did, and went on to musical success for decades.
True to form, Tony also became friends with the incomparable Nat King Cole and Duke Ellington. They could sing and play in concert halls, but they couldn’t eat in those same dining halls or stay in the hotels.
Baez, Sammy Davis Jr., Mahalia Jackson and others.
“I’m enormously proud that I was able to take part in such a historic event,” Bennett wrote in his autobiography, “but I’m saddened to think that it was ever necessary and that any person should suffer simply because of the color of his skin.”
He would go on to advocate for Black artists in the music industry and labored for racial equality. He received the Citizen of the World Award and Humanitarian Award from the United Nations for his civil rights work.
In February 2021, he announced he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease since 2016. In August 2021, he gave his fi-
er when my buddies and I had fought our way into Germany."
"It felt the same way down in Selma: the white state troopers were really hostile, and they were not shy about showing it."
Bennett wrote. "There was the threat of violence all along the march route, from Montgomery to Selma, some of which was broadcast on the nightly news and really helped to make the country aware of the ugliness that was still going on in the South."
He didn’t walk the entire 54 miles, but went ahead to Montgomery to greet Dr. King and to sing for the marchers along with Ella Fitzgerald, Pete Seeger, Joan
nal concert performances with Lady Gaga at Radio City Music Hall to sold-out audiences. They sang from the Great American Songbook they both loved. The day after the last concert, he told an interviewer he didn’t remember it.
Tony Bennett died from this disease July 21, 2023, at age 96. t
Notes from the Tony Bennett Autobiography, The Good Life, 1988, and Daniela Avila, “Inside Tony Bennett’s Civil Rights Work, Marching with Martin Luther King Jr. and Liberating Nazi Camp,” People Magazine, July 21, 2023.
“THIS OFFICER TOOK OUT A RAZOR BLADE AND CUT MY CORPORAL STRIPES OFF MY UNIFORM RIGHT THEN AND THERE,” HE WROTE IN HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY, THE GOOD LIFE. “HE SPIT ON THEM AND THREW THEM ON THE FLOOR.”
By OLSON PERRY
Some search for accurate words to describe it. Others claim it as an unexpected experience of a lifetime. I was undaunted by the variety of adjectives and adverbal phrases from the sponsors of the trip, with the thought of “show me; impress me if you can.” I was knocked off my pedestal.
As I participated as an elder in serving communion to 200 of us who were visitors to the Holy Land, representing a wide variety of participants from across America’s landscape, I quietly thanked our heavenly Father for the opportunity. The Friday afternoon sun was setting, ushering in the Sabbath as we sat in the shade under the olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane. Just a few hours earlier we visited and entered the interior of Joseph’s tomb where Jesus rested on the Sabbath.
There were sobering thoughts as we walked the one-hour, 2,000 foot, winding cobbled, uneven Via Dolorosa to the skull shaped Golgotha earlier; thoughts of the path our Savior dragged a 165-pound cross amid jeers from the crowd and the threatening mob. They struck me in such a way
that reading the story of Jesus and His sacrifice for me will never be the same. Walking on the Sea of Galilee will never be the same. Sermons referencing the Mount of Olives will never be the same.
As the communion path moved toward the back of our natural, tree covered sanctuary, I wondered if we would have enough of the emblems to feed everyone. As each elder’s hand rose, signifying they were almost out and needed more emblems, my mind started to play games. Was it my imagination that each time an elder’s arm was raised, another whispered, “I have.”
Meanwhile, as I looked in my serving plate, it wasn’t emptying, even though I thought it was. And incidentally, more and more visitors were added to our group. These visitors looked different from us; some stood; others sat on the bare ground, raising their hands to signify they wanted to join us in celebrating our Lord’s death and resurrection. I am aware that we exhausted the supply of bread and wine.
As I reflect on the Friday experience, I note that there was a gradual progression throughout the week leading to the climax of communion.
Our group explored archeological excavations. We learned of the various civilizations buried throughout centuries of time, significant in the lives of Christians. There was Caesarea Maritima, the port city built by King Herod where the Apostle Paul was a prisoner until he was taken to Rome. Megiddo, the place that witnessed many battles and that looks out over the valley of Armageddon.
Then we visited Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed His first miracle at the wedding feast. This location provided an opportunity for those from our group to renew their wedding vows. There was Nazareth, a place recreated to look as it would have looked in the time of Jesus.
We saw the Jordan River with its tree covered banks, where Christ was baptized and where some among us chose to accept the invitation to a baptism of consecration, as a reminder of their earlier baptisms.
Now, when I read about Capernaum, the Mount of Beatitudes, the Jordan River, and the Sea of Galilee, I can remember that I experienced them. Those locations and the ex-
periences of Jesus and the disciples now carry a more inspiring meaning to me.
In Jordan, we visited Jerash, a Roman city that was part of the Decapolis. According to history, this was the home of the demoniac Gerasene. At Mount Nebo, we saw the awesome view showed to Moses. Although he was not allowed to enter the Promised Land, the scene painted a panoramic view that seared into our memories before we moved on to Petra.
Petra, the Nabatean City, is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Most of us walked through the canyon’s towering walls reminding us of action movies about adventures in the Middle East. The winding path led to The Treasury. This rich city was abandoned, for no apparent reason, according to Bible prophecy.
Our visit to Amman took us to the highest hill in Amman, Jebel Al Qala’a. It is around 850 meters above sea level and part of the seven hills that originally made up Amman. Then we were on to the Roman Amphitheater, built in the second century after Christ, with a 6,000-spectator seating capacity. The destination on this
day was to spend time in the Dead Sea, so rich in minerals, a person can float while reading a book! The sunset overlooking the Dead Sea was awesome.
Traveling back to Israel from Jordan, we visited Qumran, the place where the famous “Dead Sea Scrolls” were found. We learned about the life of the Essenes.
John the Baptist is suspected to have spent time with this community.
Later we traveled through the Judean desert to Jericho, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world.
We visited the Sycamore tree of Zacchaeus, the Elisha Fountain, and the Greek Orthodox Monastery on top of the mountain where Jesus was tempted by the devil.
The Wailing Wall (The Western Wall) is the remnant of King Herod’s temple. After visiting, we toured the tunnel of the Rabbis to see the original floor of Jerusalem. Then we were on to Bethany where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead; the Village of Bethlehem, and the Church of the Nativity.
The view of the old city of Jerusalem and its wall from the Mount of
Olives provided memorable significance. We continued to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of the Nations. The trip took us to the Upper Room on Mount Zion, site of the Last Supper. We also visited King David’s tomb, Mount Golgotha, the place of the crucifixion, and Joseph’s Garden Tomb.
It would take hours and numerous pages to adequately and thoroughly describe this experience of a lifetime. A person does not have to take such a trip to experience true conversion or establish a relationship of true meaning with Jesus—however, such a trip helps. Our trip to the Holy Land ended as each person meditated and reflected on the meaning and purpose of the journey and its impact on their lives. t
Olson Perry is a veteran administrator, broadcaster, editor, reporter, professor and scholar. He serves as a professor in the Oakwood University Department of Communication and also completes editorial work for OAKWOOD magazine.
Iwanted to experience the Bible in real life. Wanted to walk the grounds [where] Jesus and many Bible characters preached and walked. Wanted to be at some of the places where Jesus was, and walk the grounds where Jesus walked. I wanted to see the Bible come to life in person. I was impressed with some of the stereotypical ideologies we have had about people… [this] is sometimes negative. These ideologies have been debunked on this trip. I enjoyed being with the people, fellow Christians, locals, and [to] experience living the Bible in person. Very kind. Very loving. Enjoyed being among the people.”
Marcya Burden, J.D., Professor and Program Director, Pre-Law Program Legal Studies and Honors Program“Inspired by my Mom who took the trip years ago. Most of the things in the Bible happened in this land. Glad to have experienced this trip. Wanted to experi-
ence the trip as Mom experienced and talked about it many years ago. Appreciate the artifacts my mother has of the trip from many years ago to Israel, Jordan, and Palestine and the opportunities to understand the various situations.”
Mandisa Thornton
“On a personal note, the trip was inspiring. Brings the Bible to life, helps me to pick up some of the missing pieces I had, put a location with the parables and the stories of the Bible, and to really get a feel of what Jesus was trying to accomplish here in the Holy Land. So happy to have the opportunity to visit the Holy Land because I will be able to minister to my friends and family, not just to minister, but share the good word with them. I’m excited about that.”
Chastity Richardson, Director of Operations, School of Graduate Studies Oakwood University.“A fabulous experience. This trip should be on everyone’s bucket list. It really helps make the Bible real. I’ve read the Bible through a couple of times, but just being able to see the places where Jesus lived, where He died, where Jesus communed with the disciples. . . it really has brought the Bible alive for me. But I think what was even more transformational for me was being with people who have the same faith, who had the opportunity to have a spiritual experience on this trip.”
Karen Benn Marshall, Vice President for Enrollment Services and Retention and Dean for the Center for Student Success, Oakwood University.
“All the things you have read in the Bible, sometimes seem so far away. Almost
I ENJOYED BEING WITH THE PEOPLE, FELLOW CHRISTIANS, LOCALS, AND [TO] EXPERIENCE LIVING THE BIBLE IN PERSON.
mystical. To actually come here and see things with your own eyes. Taste the water from Jacob’s well. It just puts the Bible to life. It was really impactful. It makes me want to go back and read more and get a better understanding of what Jesus did. What happened in His time. It was impactful to see and get an explanation of the archeological sites and see and hear the history of what happened in various times. It was just an amazing trip.”
Maisha Shaw, Attorney Senior Deputy General Counsel Northrop Southern Corporation. E
“I really feel blessed being able to come on this trip, being so young. I see a lot of people who are much older than me who are happy to come on this trip who are blessed. All around, I enjoyed it a lot.”
Ryan Lynton, 14
“I’m a history guy and history is very connected to Jerusalem. It’s a great expe-
rience and I feel very blessed to be part of it.”
Nicholas Kanion
“… just being closer to Jesus and knowing what He gave up to redeem me. I also feel like I am guilty. I caused Him to go through this, and I am so grateful and humbled.”
Theodore Brown, Dean, School of Business, Oakwood University
“Blessed and given the opportunity to walk where Jesus walked and [to] see some of the places He visited. It was inspiring, uplifting and we had a wonderfully blessed time.”
Yolanda Smith, Women’s Ministries Associate Director Southern Union of SDAs
David and Opal Williams, Florence Sprague Norman and Laura Smart
Norman Professor of Public Health and Chair, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Professor of African and African American Studies and Sociology at Harvard University
“An amazing, mind-blowing, wonderful, spiritual experience to be on this tour of the Holy Land. I have learned so much. I have enjoyed the fellowship and inspiration we have all received as we have walked in the footsteps of Jesus and in the footsteps of so many other characters in the Bible. It has been a deeply spiritual, blessed experience.
Opal Williams, Nurse Practitioner
“I concur with my husband. We are celebrating our 42nd anniversary on this trip. An amazing experience. A wonderful experience.”
* * *
IF YOU HAVE FINISHED A FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY WITHIN ONE YEAR, OR IF YOU ARE IN YOUR LAST SEMESTER AT A FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY, YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP TO APPLY TO AN AUTO PURCHASE FROM KIA MOTORS OF AMERICA.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT YOUR LOCAL KIA DEALER.
