2020 Summer Issue

• • • OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY IN NORTH AMERICA • • •

Telling

Our

Story

SUMMER 2020

https://adventistregionalministries.org

RESPONSES TO THE OTHER PANDEMIC—

WHEN

BLACK LIVES

DON’T MATTER

TRIBUTES TO A PASTOR, SPEAKER AND GLOBAL EVANGELIST

PUBLISHER’S COMMENTARY Published by the Office for Regional Conference Ministry in the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists 7000 Adventist Boulevard Huntsville, Alabama 35896 Telephone (256) 830-5002 Website: https://adventistregionalministries.org PUBLISHER Dana C. Edmond EDITOR Kyna Hinson ASSOCIATE EDITOR Bryant Taylor ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Howard I. Bullard COPY EDITOR Clarise J. Nixon CONSULTANTS Phyllis Ware Lee, Elaine Allston, Wanda Lott EDITORIAL For all correspondence and letters to the editors, write: OFFICE FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE MINISTRY 7000 Adventist Boulevard Huntsville, Alabama 35896 or fax to (256) 830-5078 We reserve the right to publish and edit your submissions and letters.

REGIONAL CONFERENCE OFFICES

ALLEGHENY EAST CONFERENCE HENRY J. FORDHAM III, PRESIDENT LaTasha Hewitt, Communications Director P.O. Box 266 Pine Forge, PA 19548 (610) 326-4610. www.myalleghenyeast.org ALLEGHENY WEST CONFERENCE WILLIAM COX, PRESIDENT Benia Jennings, Communications Director 1080 Kingsmill Pkwy. Columbus, OH 43229 (614) 252-5271. www.awconf.org CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE ROGER BERNARD, PRESIDENT Brittany Winkfield, Communications Director 3301 Parallel Parkway Kansas City, KS 66104 (913) 371-1071. www.central-states.org LAKE REGION CONFERENCE R. CLIFFORD JONES, PRESIDENT Paul Young, Communications Director 8517 South State Street Chicago, IL 60619 (773) 846-2661. www.lakeregionsda.org NORTHEASTERN CONFERENCE DANIEL LAMARTINE HONORÉ, PRESIDENT JeNean A. Lendor, Communications Director 115-50 Merrick Blvd.

Jamaica, NY 11434 (718) 291-8006. www.northeastern.org SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE WILLIAM L. WINSTON, PRESIDENT James Lamb, Communications Director 3978 Memorial Drive Decatur, GA 30032 (404) 792-0535. www.southatlantic.org SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE BENJAMIN JONES, PRESIDENT Anthony Chornes, Communications Director 715 Youngs Lane Nashville, TN 37207 (615) 226-6500. www.scc-adventist.org SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE GREGORY O. MACK, PRESIDENT Noel Grant, Communications Director 1701 Robie Avenue Mt. Dora, FL 32757 (352) 735-3142. www.secsda.org SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE CALVIN WATKINS, PRESIDENT Taryan Ramsarran, Communications Director 2215 Lanark Avenue Dallas, TX 75203 (214) 943-4491. www.southwestregion. adventistchurchconnect.org 2018 REGIONAL DIRECTORS/COORDINATORS ROSTER Virgil Childs, Director Regional Ministries Pacific Union Conference 2686 Townsgate Road Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 413-7100. www.puconline.org Cell: 909-225-6438 Kingsley Palmer, Vice President African American Dept. Arizona Conference Cell: 775-338-0858 | genx58@gmail.com Frederick Anderson, Coordinator African American Ministries | Central California Conference (831) 262-3838 | famar@sbcglobal.net O’Neil Madden, Coordinator African American Dept. | Nevada-Utah Conference Cell 702-875-5979 | pastoromadden@aol.com Byron Dulan, Vice President North Pacific Union Conference 5709 N. 20th Street Ridgefield, WA 98642 (360) 857-7000. www.npuc.org Robert Edwards, V.P. Black Ministries Southeastern California Conference (909) 202-0147 | kinggm@seccsda.org Royal Harrison, Director G.L.A.R. | Southern California Conference (503) 819-1498 | hroyal2@yahoo.com

GEORGE FLOYD AND THE COST OF BEING BLACK

I

was a delegate at the 2015 General Conference Session in San Antonio, Texas. The overarching issue at that session was that of women’s ordination.

I remember a conversation that I had just prior to the final vote with Dr. Sandy Roberts, the President of the Southeastern California Conference, which is the largest conference in the North American Division. Dr. Roberts is female—the only female conference president in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Our conversation dealt with the possibility that if the church voted not to ordain women (the vote went against ordination), there was a possibility that some would use that to undermine the leadership and credibility of women pastors and women administrators.

The point is not to rehash that topic, but is instead to point out that as a female administrator, Dr. Roberts had to deal with some things that I did not—solely because of her gender. At that time there were just some things that went along with being female in ministry that do not go along with being male in ministry; there was a price to being female in ministry.

I remember once when I was in conference administration and was introducing a female pastor to her church. While we were lining up to go into the service, a lady came up to this pastor and gave her some well-meaning advice about how to carry herself that she would not have given a man. Fairly or unfairly—and sometimes, it was clearly unfair—it simply came with the territory as we began bringing females into ministry for the first time in that conference.

I remember going around the conference for a year before we hired the first female pastors, having town hall meetings to explain what we were about to do before we did it. I never had to do that when hiring male pastors. Over my time in that particular responsibility, we hired three female pastors, the first female conference administrator and opened the door for two more female lay pastors. They all proved to be gifted ladies. Being part of opening that door is something that I consider as one of the highlights of my 42 years in ministry.

But each of the female pastors who were conference employees will tell you (perhaps through gritted teeth!) about the conversations that I felt like I had to have with them that I did not have to have with male Pastors. Not

because of things they would do, but because of who they were. There was—and I suspect, there still is—a price to being female and in ministry.

I thought about that as I looked at the video of George Floyd in Minneapolis with a policeman’s knee on his neck. It occurred to me that just as there is a price that females pay for being female and in ministry, there seems to be a price that black people pay for being black.

Think about this for a minute: This policeman was chatting casually—or so it seemed to me—with onlookers videotaping as he was snuffing out the life of George Floyd for almost nine minutes as Floyd was in handcuffs saying, “I can’t breathe.”

In other words, the Minneapolis policemen allowed themselves to be videotaped doing something that was at the least abusive, and which turned out to be murderous.

I asked myself the same question that I have asked for years: When does something happen like this and the victim isn’t black? And, are the people who perpetrated this kind of crime going to get away—again? It seems as though there is a price for being black.

Look at what’s happened recently, before George Floyd: We examine the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, and Breonna Taylor in Kentucky later in this issue. We also look at Christian Cooper, the man falsely accused in New York’s Central Park.

Then, add to that these names: Freddie Gray; Eric Garner; Michael Brown; Tamir Rice (he was 12 years old); Sandra Bland; Samuel DuBose; Terence Crutcher; Philando Castile; Walter Scott and Trayvon Martin.

All of the above died, unarmed, killed either by police, by people authorized to act as police or while in police custody. Five of these deaths were filmed/live streamed. Notwithstanding, in all five cases, there were acquittals (one acquittal was followed by a plea bargain of violating the victim’s civil rights).

Think about that for a minute. Unarmed black men (or in one case, a black child), killed

on camera by police. And all police were acquitted for the killings.

One might draw the conclusion from the above-mentioned that while there may be a price for being black, there does not seem to be very often a price for killing someone who is black if you are a police officer.

After 400 years since black people were brought to this country, we still make less money, live fewer years, have greater unemployment, and have less access to healthcare, etc. There seems to be a price for being black.

And it is not just the things that do happen; it is having to be prepared for and afraid of what could happen. Some examples: A. I suspect that most of us who are black and who have teenage and/or young adult sons have given them “The Talk”—what to do if/when they get pulled over by the police for a “DWB” (Driving While Black): “Don’t argue”; “Put your hands on the steering wheel.”

I am not sure if our Caucasian brothers and sisters give their sons “The Talk.” Perhaps they do, but if they do, it is optional. For black young men, the talk is mandatory.

Moreover, they can do all of the things that we teach our young men to do when we give them “The Talk,” and they can still get killed anyway.

There has been no evidence presented that George Floyd did not follow “the rules” outlined in “The Talk.” But he got killed anyway—in public. There seems to be a price for being black.

B. My daughter is already fearful for my 5-year-old grandson. She already is thinking that some of the same people who compliment her on what a cute little boy he is

will—in just a few years—be afraid of him for the mere reason that he looks differently than they do.

My grandson’s pre-school teacher looks differently than he does. She has a son my grandson’s age. I do not believe that she has to worry about the same things happening to her son when he gets older—a fear that he may be “Trayvon Martin-ed,” for example— that my daughter has to worry may happen to her son. There seems to be a price for being born black.

C. As the 2020 election draws closer, I am already thinking about altering my 5-7 mile daily walk to make sure that I am not walking alone in certain places at night. There are a number of reasons for my thinking that I won’t get into right now—this is not a partisan piece. But I don’t think I would have to think about it if I did not remember that Ahmaud Arbery got killed while doing what I do every day—exercising in a neighborhood where the majority of people do not look like him.

There seems to be a price for being black.

So, what do we do about that?

First Here’s what we don’t do about it. We don’t destroy the property of innocent people and do other criminal acts during protests. My father used to tell me when I was growing up, “Don’t make things hard on yourself.”

Things such as what happened to George Floyd have been happening to black people for 400 years. Finally, large numbers of people who are not black have started speaking up. But now that long-needed dialog has been interrupted by a small minority of looters and thieves. That is making things harder for us.

It has allowed President Trump to shift the dialog toward “law and order.” At least, his version of law and order. Shouldn’t “the law” also protect unarmed black people from getting shot by police?

Second We have to get involved in things that will change things. Fill out and turn in our census information. Register and vote. I remember getting my hair cut the day after the 2016 election and hearing people of color bragging about not voting. Really? People died so that

black people in the South could vote and you are going to brag that you didn’t vote?

Those are just a couple of things that can be done. Obviously, this is just a start. But everyone can do something. No one would deny that we have come a long way but there still is a long way to go. Racism remains alive and well hundreds of years after the writing of those stirring words in the United States Constitution, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.” It remains self-evident that all men are not viewed as equal. One cannot casually and publicly put their knee on someone else’s neck and ignore his plaintive cries of being unable to breathe until he is no longer able to breathe if that person is viewed as an equal.

Each of us—and I include our Caucasian brothers and sisters—has to look for ways to get involved in the things that will change things. Ultimately, we know as Seventh-day Adventists that the only thing that will really and permanently change things is for Jesus to come. And it is obvious in a world that seems in the last few months to have gone completely crazy that His coming cannot be far off.

But while we are waiting for Jesus to come, we have an obligation to do what we can do to help make a wicked world less wicked. We have an obligation to do what Jesus would do. To “heal the broken-hearted.

To preach deliverance to the captives…To set at liberty them that are bruised.” “To do justly. To love mercy. To walk humbly with thy God.” To anyone who thinks that the Bible says nothing about social justice, I implore you to stop using the Bible as a prop, and read it. It talks about a God Who does not look kindly at oppression. It talks about a God Who will one day deal decisively with injustice, those who perpetrate it and those who saw injustice and did nothing about it.

In other words, the Bible says that one day there will be a high cost for making being black have a high cost. t Dana C. Edmond

Director, Office for Regional Conference Ministry

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CONTENTS

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George Floyd and the Cost of Being Black This commentary offers a careful, pointby-point review of the sordid manner of Mr. Floyd’s death, and so many sordid cases, recent and in years past that make it necessary to still give black young men, and some young women, “The Talk.”

BY DANA C. EDMOND

The President of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists is about to begin his retirement. His decent, down-to-earth style will be missed.

COVERAGE BY DANA C. EDMOND

It’s more than just the structures, the steeples, the furnishings and instruments. The church is the people—and they are hard at work across this continent—outside the walls.

REPORTED BY BRYANT TAYLOR

Publisher’s Commentary

Farewell to Elder Dan Jackson

Church Has Left the Building

efforts to mark graduation celebrations or to open digital forums for sharing their thoughts during challenging times.

BENIA JENNINGS – AWC REPORT BRITTANY WHITFIELD – CSC REPORT ANTHONY CHORNES II – SCC REPORT

40, 42, 44 Regional News

Youth in the Allegheny East, Northeastern and Southwest Region Conferences expand work in Community Service, Health and Youth Ministries.

LATASHA HEWITT – AEC REPORT DR. KEICHA GOSLING AND JENEAN LENDOR – NEC REPORT LESLIE SOUPET – SWR REPORT

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Official Responses to the Death of George Floyd

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Tributes to Elder Walter L. Pearson, Jr.

When the life was crushed out of this man by a Minneapolis police officer, the world changed. Here are official statements from all of the Regional Conference Presidents, Regional leaders in the West and the ORCM Director; direct responses from the Presidents of Central States Conference and Oakwood University, and from the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists.

He offered decades of service as a pastor, speaker, Regional Conference leader and global evangelist—all with God’s grace and a human touch. Two leaders in ministry share the power of Elder Pearson’s influence in their lives and their pastoral work—with the greatest respect.

BY DANA C. EDMOND AND CARLTON P. BYRD

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In Memoriam

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Tribute to Richard Wayne Penniman

This pastor had once been a huge, teen fan of global entertainer “Little Richard.”

Decades later, he became a true friend and confidant to his church member who no longer sought fame and fortune. He told his pastor, “I just want to be saved.”

BY LUKE ROBINSON

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30, 32, 33, 34

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Oakwood University Recognizes 2020 Graduates

This class finished their last term of college work deeply involved in distance, digital learning, and they emerged in triumph. The Oakwood University President led them in this historic Virtual Celebration.

ADDRESS BY DR. LESLIE N. POLLARD

25, 26, 27 Regional News

The Allegheny West, Central States and South Central Regional Conference educators and youth leaders made special

Ms. Pat Harris served on the editorial staff of MESSAGE Magazine for two decades. Mrs. Katherine Hairston and Mrs. Doris Jones knew the realities of Regional Conference presidential leadership, along with meeting family and professional demands of their own. Mrs. Zellima Howard was also a faithful partner in ministry with her husband, a dedicated mother, church leader and solid witness for God in her professional life as well. We are thankful for these lives of service.

REPORTS BY CARMELA MONK CRAWFORD THE HAIRSTON FAMILY DR. CYNTHIA JONES HAMMOND AND MRS. CAROL BYRD ELDER DARRYL HOWARD

36, 37, 38, 39 National Briefs

We examine the tragic deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. Then we view the incredible saga of Christian Cooper—the one who got to live.

46, 48 The Legacy Series

We’re offering profiles of leaders from our collective past to share knowledge of where we’ve been with God’s guidance and how He leads to our future.

DANA C. EDMOND – PROFILE OF ELDER CHARLES E. BRADFORD SAMUEL THOMAS, JR. – PROFILE OF ELDER HAROLD L. CLEVELAND

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Hope Series The Drug Alternative Program Changes Lives

Founders of DAP, Cliff and Freddie Harris, make a cross-country move to share hope beyond addiction through the Drug Alternative Program.

COVERAGE BY PATRICE THOMAS CONWELL REGIONAL VOICE

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ORCM TRIBUTE

ELDER

again, what I had seen him do became a guide for the things that I did in that position.

I never became the preacher that he was, but he influenced me there as well. And one of my greatest joys as a pastor was to bring my former pastor, Elder Pearson, to preach at my church.

WALTER L. PEARSON, JR.

F

A FAREWELL TRIBUTE TO MY PASTOR

By DA NA C. EDMOND

I

have been extraordinarily blessed in my life and ministry to have known many of the major figures in our church—to a fair degree of closeness. The late Elder C.D. Brooks was my pastor as a little boy in Cleveland, Ohio. The late Elder E.E. Cleveland’s wife was a good friend of my late mother. Elder Cleveland once told me that while he wasn’t “sure about” me, his wife liked me, so that was enough to at least get me in the door with him. That led to a special relationship with both of them that I cherish to this day.

Elder C.E. Bradford and his wife were friends of my parents and my late aunt was a church school teacher in his school in St. Louis. When the Bradford family lived in New York and Chicago, my parents would stay in their home when they would travel to those cities. Elder C.E. Dudley’s youngest son is married to my oldest sister. I got to work with Elder E.C. Ward when I was a young pastor in South Central. To this day, one of the greatest thrills of my life was as a young pastor in my twenties being invited to preach at the Oakwood Church and being introduced by Elder Ward.

I thought about that when I heard that another iconic figure, Elder Walter L. Pearson, had passed away. Elder Pearson was also my Pastor in the old Glenville SDA Church in Cleveland, at the very beginning of his ministry.

He came to Cleveland to work with another towering figure, the late Elder H.L. Cleveland, Sr., as his Associate Pastor. (Elder Cleveland is profiled, along with Elder Bradford, in our new Legacy Series that appears later in this issue). Then Elder Cleveland added Dr. Charles Drake, who later became a Conference President. That was quite a team!

Elder Pearson—who even then was an outstanding preacher—was assigned to the youth of our church. Under his leadership, we had all kinds of activities: socials, basketball games, out-of-town trips, Youth Days (I

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had never heard of “Youth Day” prior to Elder Pearson’s arrival).

He had us put on a play. Though that was 1,000 years ago, I still remember it to this day: “The Trial of Mr. TV.” He placed me in the starring role as “Mr. TV.” I am sure I overacted and hammed it up, but it was a big success.

Elder Pearson even organized the young people to go out ingathering and to help the church reach its Ingathering Goal. Elder Cleveland called the young people “Pearson’s Raiders.” I remember being so proud that I exceeded my goal of $25, which was a lot of money back then.

I remember that if you raised $100, you were a “Jasper Wayne” (And you are really an old-fashioned Adventist if you know who he was); Elder Pearson was such an inspiring leader that we had young people who were “Jasper Waynes.”

After a while, I went away to school.

Elder Pearson moved on to his next assignment and ultimately to a ministry that took him all over the world as a gifted preacher and evangelist. But he had made an indelible impression on me—even more than I realized. His interest in me sparked my interest in working with young people. Just like him, my first assignment was as a Youth Pastor. I tried to do the same things in that church that I had seen him do. Like him, I became a Conference Youth Director. And once

HE WAS A BIG PART OF MAKING ME WHO I WAS. I AM THANKFUL THAT WHO I BECAME MADE HIM PROUD.

_______________________

_____________________________ ___________________________ __________________________ ___________________

__________________________ _____________________

or many years, Elder Pearson was the Speaker/Director for Breath of Life Television Ministries, where he was the Lord’s instrument for introducing thousands of men and women around the world to the saving gospel of Jesus Christ.

When poor health caused him to step down, he was succeeded by the current Speaker/Director, Dr. Carlton P. Byrd.

While I was still in the South Central Conference, I had the privilege of bringing Dr. Byrd to his current other responsibility, that as the Senior Pastor of the Oakwood University SDA Church. I never shall forget the day I introduced Dr. Byrd to Oakwood—it was a major event.

As Dr. Byrd was finishing his stirring introductory sermon, Mrs. Edmond and I had to leave for the airport to catch a plane for our next responsibility. As we were rushing to catch our flight, I looked down at my phone. It was a text from Elder Pearson. He told me how proud he was.

Even though I was no longer the young man he had pastored so many years before, I was not too old (and I’m still not too old) to feel good that the Lord had allowed me to make Elder Pearson proud of me. He was a big part of making me who I was. I am thankful that who I became made him proud.

I thanked him but I am not sure that I ever really told him what a major role he played in my life. Part of that is because until I wrote this article, I never fully realized how great his influence on my life has been.

But I plan to tell him that one day very soon. I am sure Elder Pearson would like for you to be there, too. t _____________________________ Dana C. Edmond, Director, Office for Regional Conference Ministry and also Publisher of Regional Voice Magazine, first shared these thoughts on the ORCM website.

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ORCM TRIBUTE

WELL DESERVED REST PASTOR

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WHEN YOU WATCHED HIM PREACHING, IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT HE LOVED THE WORD OF GOD AND HE LOVED SHARING THE GOSPEL!

___________________________________

ver since the news of Pastor Walter Pearson’s passing was shared, our Breath of Life phones have not stopped buzzing and ringing with telephone calls, text messages, emails, and social media notifications. Some individuals called to express their shock and disbelief that Pastor Pearson had fallen asleep. Others emailed to ask questions for media entities and publications. Most, however, sent a message just to say how much he was loved and appreciated.

We received messages from people whose family members or who themselves had become converted through the preaching ministry of Pastor Pearson. As a matter of fact, expressions of love have been pouring in from all around the world as people who were blessed by his preaching have come to learn of his passing. One person even reached out to say, “Elder Pearson was born to preach the gospel.”

None of this is surprising, and all of it is true! Pastor Walter L. Pearson, Jr. was a preaching giant! His preaching gifts were extraordinary! He had a way of connecting with people through preaching and teaching while telling stories that was unparalleled! All preachers are better having watched him labor as a master of his craft.

He preached with passion, fervor, and joy!

When you watched him preaching, it was obvious that he loved the Word of God and he loved sharing the gospel! It makes me ecstatic just thinking about that!

As I reflect on all of this as the current Speaker/Director of Breath of Life, I can’t help but to be happy to be a part of a ministry with such a strong legacy. From Pastor C.D. Brooks, to Pastor Walter L. Pearson, until now, Breath of Life has always been about sharing the good news of the gospel with the entire world. Today, I’m encouraged to once again lift the banner high and to keep marching toward the kingdom. I’m encouraged to continue Pastor Pearson’s legacy of powerful, Bible-based, gospel-centered preaching. This is what Breath of Life is all about.

Pastor Pearson dedicated his entire life to preaching the gospel. His rest is a rest well deserved. I can’t wait until that day when we circle around heaven’s throne. According to Revelation 15, we’re all going to want to tell the story of how we “got over.” I can imagine Pastor Pearson is going to start preaching and testifying to the angels! That’s going to be another classic sermon! I can’t wait to hear it! t ____________________________________

____________________________ ___________________________

________________________________

________________________________ ________________

______________________ ______________

WALTER L. PEARSON, JR.

NOVEMBER 18, 1945 - JUNE 7, 2020

by CARLTON P. BYRD

“And I heard a voice from heaven, saying, ‘Write, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on! Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘so that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them.’”

—Revelation 14:13, NASB

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Dr. Carlton P. Byrd is the Speaker/Director for the Breath of Life Telecast and Senior Pastor of the Oakwood University Church in Huntsville, Alabama.

Photo by Stephen A. L. Richardson

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ORCM STATEMENT

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Statement from The Seventh-day Adventist Regional Presidents Council Regarding the Death of George Floyd

e the members of the Seventh-day Adventist Regional Presidents Council share the shock, sorrow and anger that our colleague, Elder Roger Bernard, President, Central States Conference so articulately described in the statement below.

Dr. Martin Luther King said that “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”. No one-in particular, people of faith-can be indifferent or silent when injustices are done and the precious gift of life is needlessly snatched away.

We call on government leaders on all levels to act and put an end to this continuing sad story of unequal justice under the law and we support the peaceful protests and demonstrations that call for it.

Our prayers go out to the family of George Floyd, to our country and for the world that we are called to serve and prepare for the soon coming of the One whose coming will ultimately make all wrongs right. “Even so, come Lord Jesus.” t The Members of the Regional Presidents Council Elder Henry Fordham, President, Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Dr. W. T. Cox, President, Allegheny West Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Roger Bernard, President, Central States Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Dr. R. Clifford Jones, President, Lake Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Dr. Daniel Honore, President, Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder William Winston, President, South Atlantic Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Benjamin Jones, President, South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Gregory Mack, President, Southeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Calvin Watkins, President, Southwest Regional Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Dr. Kenneth Manders, President, Bermuda Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Byron Dulan, Vice President, North Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Elder Virgil Childs, Vice President, Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Dr. Leslie Pollard, President, Oakwood University Elder Dana C. Edmond, Executive Director, Office for Regional Conference Ministry

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SCC STATEMENT

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Statement Regarding the Death of George Floyd

e, the Central States Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, are deeply saddened, angered, and horrified by the tragic death of George Floyd, at the hands of Minneapolis Police Officers on Monday May 25, 2020. We are thankful to the Minneapolis Police Department for their swift termination of the police officers involved in this tragedy. We would like to see justice legally served that is equal to the crime perpetrated against George Floyd.

As a Seventh-day Adventist Conference that oversees churches and members in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area, we fully support any and all non-violent protests, boycotts, and public pressure necessary to achieve justice for George Floyd. As people of the Word, who believe in not only talking about God’s love but demonstrating God’s love, Isaiah 1:17 admonishes us to “Learn to do good; Seek justice; Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the

widow.” The wise man Solomon in Proverbs 18:5 reiterates “It is not right to acquit the guilty or deny justice to the innocent.”

Subsequently, we strongly believe that we have a spiritual and moral responsibility to the people and community within our territory, and it is our intent to always be concerned with the eternal destiny and the present welfare of our people. Unlike the priest and the rabbi who witnessed an injured man and passed by on the other side, we will not turn a blind eye to the injustices that continue to be perpetrated against our people of color.

If there is anything that our church members, pastors, churches, and Conference can do to support justice running down like a mighty stream for the family of George Floyd during this time of loss, we are here to serve. May God have mercy on us, as we weep, but not without the hope that the God who sees all will bring present and eternal justice to all. t

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OU PRESIDENT’S STATEMENT

NAD STATEMENT

A Message to the Oakwood Community May 31, 2020

S

ince I first shared my feelings about recent events in our nation on last Thursday morning during the InsideOakwood radio segment, I have continued to reflect on the tragic circumstances that led to the death of Mr. George Floyd. The only words and emotions that come to mind are anger, outrage, and exhaustion.

Exhaustion—because we can only wonder how long we will as Black people have to grapple with the incessant devaluation of Black lives.

Anger, because on a personal note I am angry at the relentless psychological and physical assaults upon people of color.

Yes, I am angry—the one emotion that is used by society to stereotypically dismiss the voices of “angry black men” and “angry black women.” I am angry about Mr. Floyd’s murder. And I’m outraged when I feel forever doomed to wonder whether black young men will survive a routine traffic stop.

I’m outraged, wondering whether young Black women will be safe in their own homes—or strolling through Central Park.

It is almost impossible to be an African -American and not have, or to not know someone who has had negative encounters involving race- everything from being followed in stores, to being pulled over while driving a luxury car, or driving in a certain area, to being ignored in department stores because you don’t fit the wealth profile of other patrons...and the list goes on.

But in the wake of Mr. Floyd’s unnecessary and senseless death, I am also determined. I am determined that the Oakwood community will continue to be a center of empowerment and witness to the lives and work of a generation of student standard bearers. Students who will, in the words of Jesus love “the least of these” Matthew 25:40. I am determined that the faith that has guided Oakwood University since 1896, and the cultural legacy handed to us as a Historically Black College and University, will continue to produce generations of Black attorneys, physicians, social workers, dentists, teachers, media and business professionals that combat the ills of our people perpetuated by systems of oppression. Amid great turmoil we must remain focused on our continued intellectual and moral development. I am deter-

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mined that “the least of these” will be able to financially access an Oakwood education, so that from the blood-soaked sod of this former slave plantation, a new generation of moral activists will be launched. Great thinkers will leave Oakwood’s sacred grounds to not simply make a dollar, but to make a difference. Mr. Floyd, and all of the Mr. Floyds of the past 400 years, deserve this commitment from our institution. Moral passivity is not an option!

The Oakwood University community extends our sympathies to the family of Mr. George Floyd, and all of the other families who have been touched by the tragedy of unexpected and unnecessary death. We further call upon the thousands of devoted law-enforcement officers, who everyday serve and protect communities, to decry and join efforts to root out this violence perpetrated by bad actors in blue from the police forces across our land. And to the parents who entrust their treasure to Oakwood University, be assured that our impactful work with your young people has only just begun.

To the administrators, faculty, staff, and alumni of Oakwood University, we commend you for standing strong on behalf of the ministry of justice on our campus every day.

Finally, to the students of Oakwood University, be it resolved, that you are the generation who will pick up the torch handed to you by the pioneers of civil justice, and we who lead and serve at Oakwood will facilitate your indispensable work and witness. This is your moment! Let no one tell you that the work of “standing for the right, though the heavens fall” is incompatible with the life of faith! Those voices, however sincere, are misguided, because “He has [already] shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of thee, but to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:6-8. May God bless you, and may God bless the transformative work and mission of Oakwood University! t

NAD Issues Response to Recent Deaths and Racial Turmoil in U.S. May 29, 2020 | Columbia, Maryland | North American Division

T

he Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America is responding to the tragic killings of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, Breonna Taylor in Kentucky, George Floyd in Minnesota, and other recent events that clearly document the racial divide destroying the quality of life for so many and the very fabric of our democratic society. As Christians we condemn such actions of hate and violence and call for justice to be served for the victims and their families.

Walls of separation that serve to destroy the essential rights of human dignity, self-worth, and freedom have been built up. These rights are required for all Americans to live and thrive in their local communities. Some of those who have been trusted to protect all members of society have broken their solemn pact to serve others; especially those in need. Americans should never have to live in fear of going out in public just because of the color of their skin or their ethnicity. We can and must do better.

We urge all our church members to prayerfully consider how they interact with everyone in their communities. We ask you to speak out against injustice and hatred, just as Jesus did when He was on this earth. We can make a difference for those who are marginalized and betrayed by others, and we must provide a forum for the voices of the victims of hatred and racism. Our actions can speak louder than words. We can lead by example in how we treat others and demand that all people be treated equally and fairly. As the most ethnically-diverse Christian faith in the United States, our voices represent nearly every community in this country. They must be heard as we serve to heal our broken communities with the love and compassion of Jesus. t — North American Division Administration

Yours in service, President Leslie N. Pollard, Ph.D., D.Min., M.B.A.

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ORCM FAREWELL

THANK YOU, ELDER

DANIEL R. JACKSON

HE IS A DECENT, DOWNTO-EARTH, PRINCIPLED PERSON, WHO FROM EVERYTHING I HAVE OBSERVED THESE PAST TEN YEARS, HAS DEMONSTRATED HIS LOVE FOR GOD AND FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD. ___________________________________________ _________________________________________ ____________________________________ ___________________________________

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By DANA C. EDMOND

I

still remember where I was and what I thought when I first received the news. I was in the pulpit of the Ephesus SDA Church in Birmingham, Alabama.

I had come to Ephesus to do the eulogy of Elder William C. Scales, Sr., a venerable member of the Seventh-day Church, a long-time Bible worker and a very good family friend. His son, Elder William C. Scales, Jr., the former Ministerial Director of the North American Division (NAD) had eulogized my father a few years before. I was honored to return the service.

There was a slight problem, however. The General Conference session was proceeding in Atlanta and I was a delegate. The funeral and the election of the North American Division President were scheduled at the same time. There was a great deal of interest and discussion surrounding this selection and I wanted to be there.

But the bonds of six decades between the Scales and the Edmonds were too strong for me to even consider not being there to eulogize Elder Scales, Sr. I considered it a great honor to be asked; I never considered not being there.

Early that morning, I drove to Birmingham. But I secured a promise from another delegate, my friend Elder Frederick A. Russell, who was the Allegheny West Conference President at that time. I said, “Freddie, as soon as you know who the NAD President is, text me.” Elder Russell promised.

As I sat somberly on the rostrum, listening to the fine words and tributes to this good man I had been privileged to know for my entire life, who now awaited the certain sound of the trumpet of God in the first resurrection, I heard my phone buzz. It was Elder Russell. Sure enough, he had kept his word and was texting me the name of the NAD President.

I looked down with anticipation. I fully expected to see either: A. The name of one of my former colleagues. We had worked together before, so I knew personally that he was very qualified. He was very wellknown and I would have welcomed his selection with enthusiasm.

B. The name of another person I thought most likely to be selected. In

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all honesty, I was not going to be nearly as excited about his election. In fact, I was not going to be excited at all. I was prepared to accept his selection with the kind of resigned, “This must have been the Lord’s will” reaction that happens at meetings when the Lord goes in the complete opposite direction of your prayers. But I was pretty sure the new leader was going to be “A” or “B.” Except it wasn’t. It was “C,” some fellow named Dan Jackson. It was all I could do to maintain pulpit decorum and the solemn dignity of the service my enormous respect for the late Elder Scales, Sr. and his esteemed family required by not blurting out “Who?????” (I texted it, though).

I had never heard of Elder Dan Jackson.

No one I knew had ever heard of Elder Dan Jackson. But I was about to find out about him. And in finding out about Elder Jackson, I was about to be reminded of something very important: God knows what He’s doing. Always.

I am sharing this with you because by the time this article is printed, Elder Jackson will be in his final days as the North American Division President of Seventh-day Adventists. On July 1, he will

retire. Most of you do not know Elder Jackson, so let me tell you my experience with him:

H

e is a decent, down-to-earth, principled person, who from everything I have observed these past ten years, has demonstrated his love for God and for the people of God. No one in my circles knew who he was, but God knew who he was. And God knew that he and his wife, Donna, an equally decent, down-to-earth person, were exactly who the North American Division and Regional Conferences needed.

I suppose I could offer a list of achievements from the past decade to support this premise. I could do that because the Lord has certainly blessed the NAD under Elder Jackson’s leadership. But right now, who Elder Jackson is, is more important than what he has done.

Elder Jackson’s decency and his sense of fairness just connects with people.

One of the responsibilities of my office is to work with the Regional Conference officers. The Regional Conference Presidents Council meets with

the NAD leadership a couple of times each year. My office coordinates those meetings. Elder Jackson connects with the Regional Conference leadership in a way that I have seldom seen a person who is not black connect. He is comfortable in those settings and the black leadership is comfortable with him. I am not sure that I can explain how; it just is.

I remember the next General Conference session in San Antonio. I remember the prayers for Elder Jackson from Regional Conference leadership that the Lord would see fit for his leadership at the NAD to continue. I still recall going to Elder Jackson after his re-election, congratulating him and then saying,” Mr. President, I have never seen a bunch of black people [referring to the Regional Conference leadership] so invested in the election of a white person.”

Now, that may be a politically incorrect or inelegant statement. But it was and is true.

But it wasn’t just black people with whom Elder Jackson connected. My Caucasian colleagues also appreciated that he connected with people, period.

It was because of who he was.

I remember and value my personal interactions with Elder Jackson. I remember some personal texts and emails. I would not want to give the impression that we communicated back and forth a lot, because that would not be true.

But there were a few emails. The one I value most is the one I received on Christmas Day several years ago. I was still with the South Central Conference. The Lord had blessed us to accomplish something unusual. Elder Jackson took the time to email me and congratulate me. On Christmas Day. I still have that email.

That’s who he is and his wife shares this spirit. That is why he went from someone who no one knew to someone who everyone will miss.

Thank you, Elder Jackson. And, God bless. t ________________________ Dana C. Edmond, Director, Office for Regional Conference Ministry, is also Publisher of Regional Voice Magazine.

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IN MEMORIAM

”I JUST WANT TO BE SAVED” Tribute and Experience of Pastoring Richard Penniman

By LUK E ROBINSON

“I

just want to be saved.”

These are the words that resounded in my mind early one Saturday morning after hearing about the death of Richard Wayne Penniman, once known as Little Richard. My mind took me back to the early 60s, during my teenage years, when I was so impressed with his performances that I wanted to be like him.

As one of my heroes in the rock-and-roll music world, his gifts and talents brought happiness with music and dancing for those of us who lived for the weekend.

My vision was to someday play in Little Richard’s band. Instead, through a strange turn of events, I became his pastor. How could this be? In the year 2013, I was introduced to the First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Richard Penniman, along with some others in his family, were members of this congregation. Words could not express my gratitude to God for allowing me to pastor a man who gave me joy and happiness in my teenage years.

Now, here we were, face-to-face for the first time. When the service was over, we sat together at the dinner table and I shared with him the good times we had during the 50s and 60s in our homes, clubs and schools… not to mention “May Day,” a day of fun at school when we could play his music and dance the day away.

We had a lot to say about the past, but what stood out the most that day was when he looked me in my eyes and said, “Pastor, I just want to be saved.” That was a profound moment: to see the expression on his face and hear his tone of voice as he expressed his gratitude to God for this SDA message of the Three Angels of Revelation.

Richard Wayne Penniman lived much of his 87 years on stages around the world, working his fingers to the bones. His entertainment relieved the stress of post-slavery victims and not only released some of the pressures of racial injustice that existed between adult whites and people of color, but also released pressures for their children.

I began to share my gratitude to him, and he said to me, “Pastor, I always wanted to be famous, but I never thought it would happen, and now I’m known around the world.” I responded, “Yes, I know…a

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I LISTENED TO HIM RELIVE HIS LIFE STORY, BOTH ON AND OFF STAGE. __________________________

_____________________________

________________________________ _______________________ _____________

man’s gifts make a place for him. What was it like?”

I listened to him relive his life story, both on and off stage. Again, in the midst of our conversation, he said to me, “Pastor, I am done with show business.

I just want to be saved.” That gave me the opportunity to really look into his heart and help provide an answer to his plea for salvation. In his later years, he was still receiving calls to perform shows for large sums of money. Even though this was his livelihood, he refused them all.

Struggles? Yes, he had them—and so it is with all humankind. God never left him. And because of my own struggles in the secular world, I understood his struggles. So I said to him, “Richard, you are already saved.”

I reminded him that when you go out

to eat, sometimes there is a waiting list.

“The host or hostess writes your name in the book. This means you are in, but you can’t sit at the table and eat yet. You have to wait until your name is called.

Just be patient and wait.”

He replied, “I don’t want to be called by my stage name, Little Richard, anymore. I am Richard Wayne Penniman. I will do anything to be with Jesus.”

My final counsel was, “Take off anything that will remind you of it and allow it to fade.” He then asked me to baptize him. And I did.

On an intimate note, Richard showed love to my family. He adored my wife, visited our home, loved my sons, daughters-in-law and our many grandchildren. He became friends with my mother-in-law and I was deeply grateful when he attended her funeral and graveside service two years ago.

It was my custom to have a testimony period every Sabbath morning during

my pastoral remarks. Richard would be the first to raise his hand, testify about being a Seventh-day Adventist and testify about the thousands of Steps to Christ and The Great Controversy books he passed out at every engagement.

Genesis 3:17-19 reminds us that every human being that is born of a woman is of a few days and full of trouble. Like Richard, all of us struggle in the race to get to the finish line. The great blessing of this race is that there is no competition. Anyone who is running for Jesus and who keeps his or her eyes on the prize will cross the finish line. I want to think that Richard crossed that line and is saved, just as he asked. t _______________________

Elder Luke Robinson is pastor of the First Seventh-day Adventist Church of Shelbyville, Tennessee.

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ORCM NATIONAL REPORT

OUTSIDE THE WALLS:

CHURCH HAS LEFT THE BUILDING Reported by BRYANT TAYLOR

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or many, the church has always been defined by its recognizable elements: structure with a steeple or cross atop, stained glass windows, a pipe organ, robed choirs, tiled floors and hard pews. But is that the church?

Many would argue that the church has changed. There is an updated reality.

Church is no longer easily recognized for its structure. Many congregations meet in converted buildings: theaters, grocery stores, warehouses, or gymnasiums. Very few have stained glass windows; praise teams have replaced choirs. In some places, tiered digital keyboards, Hammond B3, drums, electric guitars, strings and horn sections fill the choir lofts. Plush carpet and comfortable padded single seating options adorn the modern worship space. While there will be disagreement on the aesthetics, all would say this is the church, but is it?

Is the church confined to the physical space, the four walls? Throughout the New Testament, church is seen as those who come together as a church (1 Corinthians 11:18). In 1 Corinthians 16:19, we read of the believers meeting in homes— house church. The congregation or church as the totality of Christians living and meeting in a particular locality or larger geographical area, but not necessarily limited to one meeting place :1 The church was and is the congregation of the faithful. It is written as Ekklesia: the called out ones; those who are called out, those who are empowered for a witness

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to the world (Acts 1:8), those who proclaim the good news and touch the lives of individuals with forgiveness, faith and freedom (Luke 4:18, 19). Yes, the church is called to be a caring community delivering acts of kindness (Acts 2:43–47; 4:31–37) and following Jesus’ example of reaching out to the poor and weak. The church is concerned with human need (Acts 4:34).

There is no question or disagreement that the world has changed. That change has brought doubt, despair, discouragement, fear and uncertainty. However, the news is while the world has changed, the mission of the church has not. The building is closed, but the church is open. Pastors, ministry leaders and members have demonstrated that the church is not the building. Rather, the church is the people. While the shelter-in-place orders have closed the buildings, the pandemic has not shut down the missionaries. The church has left the building and is making a major difference for the better.

With the U.S. unemployment rate just under 15 percent, standing at about 20 million people (from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics), this is the highest these numbers have been since 1948. So many people are in need. The Dorcas Society/Community Service Ministries have shifted into high gear. Farmers facing the awful prospect of leaving their crops to rot in the fields because they couldn’t get them to market caused national outrage with so many going hungry. The vendors

they used such as restaurants and hotels either closed or greatly reduced their orders.

Pastor Debleaire Snell and the members of the First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Huntsville, Alabama, saw this as the perfect opportunity. They purchased crops from local farmers and gave the food to those in need. What a fantastic idea, to create a drive through farmers market! Pastor Alfonzo Greene and The Bridge, a campus church of First Church, took measures one step further and delivered groceries to those who could not get out to get food, whether they lacked transportation or if they were in populations at risk. *** The Ethnan Temple Church, Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, historically has had a thriving Community Service pantry, serving hot meals and providing groceries for the community. However, when the shelter-in-place order came the plan was stopped, that is, until their newly installed pastor Jerome Hurst heard of it and shared with the team, “We can’t be locked up and closed—then when this is over, open and say ‘We are here to help you.’”

They took that challenge to heart and their indoor program went outside to the sidewalk of the church.

They created a drive-up food pantry

planned for 250 people. They served more than 500, depleting their supply of food. Follow this link to see how local news media reported the story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pde8PrZn3e8&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR3vml03VV9_xkwRaROqw0kWH1GRGCbSsym8w-HnuuwBuZUQ6pan8FUGhQY Ethnan Temple now plans a bimonthly drive-through food give-away.

They believe in partnerships with local groups to do ministry. The first is One Love Street Ministry. During events, the church will provide food preparation personnel to grill hot dogs and burgers with chips and water. They joined with the local Ministerial Association to offer a drive by Prayer & Care Parade with first responders. They pray for the homes as they drive by and give out boxes of food.

Pastor Hurst believes in the big events, but knows that it is the consistent, continual small activities that make the impact, so they are even planning a pet food giveaway. Then the youth will lead, filling Community Service buckets with bleach bottles, masks, gloves, paper products, deodorant, toothpaste and other essential cleaning supplies and giving those out.

Members also plan to show appreciation for first responders by going to fire and police stations, and to nursing homes to deliver snack packs they have prepared for all the employees. Pastor Hurst’s motto and motivation is: “Where God

gives vision, He will make provision.”

So far money is not the issue. He believes when “people see you active, they join.” After learning about the driveup food pantry, the local food bank has asked the church to become a distribution center for the coming abundance for fresh produce they will receive in the summer. Next? The church is planning a drive-through fresh produce stand. *** The Crystal City church in Sacramento, California, heard of a death and responded quickly to show the grieving family member she was not alone. They gave a drive-up memorial service in front of the person’s home. They shared words of encouragement and individually placed roses on the lawn and surrounded the house. They also sang songs of comfort for the family. Damien Chandler of the church shared this: “It was a moving experience, not just for the family but for all involved.”

The Crystal City church will continue serving their community in these times by strengthening relationships and partnering with area non-profit organizations. *** Rodney Valentine pastors the Praise Tabernacle Church in Whiteville, North Carolina. Their congregation is blessed with multiple medical professionals. Sev-

eral of them sprang into action when the crisis hit. A physical therapist, an occupational therapist, and a medical doctor all began offering services to the uninsured.

To make sure that patients did not miss their appointments, they even offered virtual physical therapy sessions. *** This is but a small sample of the wonderful actions congregations are taking to continue the mission of the church.

May these efforts encourage you and spark more ideas of creative ways to share the love of Jesus to those around you during this time; they show that the building may be closed—but the church is open. t ______________________________________

REFERENCE 1. William Arndt, Frederick W. Danker, et al., A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), 304. __________________________ Bryant Taylor, D.Min., is Associate Editor of Regional Voice Magazine, and conducted multiple interviews for this national coverage.

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OU GRADUATION

PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS

OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY CLASS OF 2020 GRADUATION RECOGNITION Delivered by Dr. Leslie N. Pollard May 9, 2020

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lass of 2020: congratulations on completing your studies at Oakwood University! As we approach the graduation season and this coming Mother’s Day, we want you to know, and I want you to know personally, that I feel a strong sense of sadness that we’re not able to celebrate with you and your families.

The campus right now is eerily quiet, meaning that it has been evacuated, and yet, we trust that as you have spent this time away, that you are well, that you are feeling healthy and that you are safe. That’s important to us.

As we think about the future, we want you to know that we’re here to celebrate your accomplishments. Even though we cannot do it personally in the ways we’d imagined, you should know that God is giving us guidance and leadership as we plan for the future.

We look forward to August 1st—God willing—and having you and your families come back to campus to enjoy a fine time acknowledging and celebrating all that you have accomplished during this past year. Three hundred fifty of you have graduated and that’s a remarkable number; we’re proud of each and every one of you.

Even though we have been disrupted by the Coronavirus, I was sitting and thinking as I was studying Scripture, “What might apply to this situation?” I want to point you to a person who experienced disruption in his life. He was born into a dysfunctional family. His name is Joseph. He was ripped from his father’s and his mother’s household and sold brutally into slavery.

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EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE BEEN DISRUPTED BY THE CORONAVIRUS, I WAS SITTING AND THINKING AS I WAS STUDYING SCRIPTURE, “WHAT MIGHT APPLY TO THIS SITUATION?”

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When he arrived in slavery, he did his best to provide blessing and benefit to every member of Potiphar’s household. But, of course, you know the story well: in a fit of murderous rage, the wife of his master framed him for a crime that he did not commit. This was a disruption. Without the benefit of a trial, he was unjustly jailed. That was a disruption. While in jail, he interpreted a dream of one of his fellow prisoners, who promised that once he achieved his freedom, he would remember Joseph.

But the story reminds us that he forgot about Joseph, and Joseph wallowed in prison. His plans for release were completely disrupted by the negligence of his friend. Another disruption.

But God always has a way when Satan gets in the way. As a global famine ravaged the entire world, Joseph’s talents were needed. Joseph was brought before the king, who was told that Joseph could interpret dreams. And Joseph did exactly that. That disruption is precisely what carried Joseph to his date with his destiny.

Class of 2020, please listen to me when I say that each of you has a date with destiny. Your date will be triggered by some disruption in your life.

God will bring your date with destiny to you, and God will bring you to it. In that moment, everything that has been poured into you at Oakwood University, from your family, your friends, from your relationships, your network, your personal reflection, your meditation, your studies—everything that has been poured into you will erupt from you and flow out in a tide of blessing

___________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ____________________________________________ _________________________________

and benefit. This is what we mean at Oakwood University when we say that we “Enter to learn,” and we “Depart to serve.”

Joseph’s story is a familiar one—we know that he ascended to the highest heights becoming the vice regent of Egypt, and yet, at the end of the story, when those who sold him so brutally into slavery were confronted by Joseph, Joseph said something to them that is timely. He said, “What you meant for evil, God meant for good.”

For good? Yes, for good: to carefully position Joseph at the intersection of destiny and opportunity, and to bring out of disruption an eruption of blessing and benefit for his people.

Class of 2020, we predict the same will happen with you. God will bring out of you, because of this disruption, an eruption of service, success and blessing. He will enable you to see opportunity where others will see tragedy. From you, Class of 2020, all 350 of you, will flow blessings in the midst of curses, hope in the face of despair.

You will see benefit where others see burden. You will become masters of the possible.

This thought reminds me of the

young graduate who had just left college and went out to be a reporter. He was going to write a book about a cleric in a monastery with a reputation that was known far and wide. The cleric was known for his brilliance. The young grad arrived at the monastery and was introduced to the master, who looked like a rather plain person. So he said to the master, “People say that you are a genius. Are you?” With a wry smile, the master looked at the young grad and said, “You might say so.” Well, this of course took the young reporter aback.

“What makes one a genius?” asked the intrepid reporter. The master carefully, almost cautiously, said, “The ability to see.” Now the young reporter was just confused. Scratching his head, he said, “To see what?” Now the master’s brilliance exerted itself. The master quietly replied, “A butterfly in a caterpillar. An eagle in an egg. A saint in a selfish soul.

Life in the midst of death. Unity in the midst of separation, and opportunity in a dark circumstance, the divine in the human, and the human in the divine.”

G

raduates of 2020, this is what our institution wishes for you. We wish for you the ability to see. As you launch out into the world, may you see in every circumstance God’s opportunity. And when you face opposition—and you will—do not cave in, do not capitulate, do not retreat, but say to yourself, “No weapon formed against me will prosper.”

Class of 2020, when you step out into the world and you find that there are challenges, and challengers, say to yourself, “I won’t give up, for if God be for me, who can be against me?”

And then when you’ve done your best work—and someone may seem to subvert that work just as a part of the normal give-and-take in the office and in the workplace—say to yourself, “What the enemy means for evil, God will take and turn to good.”

Class of 2020, congratulations! We miss you. We pray for you. We support you, and God willing, August 1st, we will see you. May God bless you. May He bless Oakwood University, and I’m honored to say, along with thousands of others, you came to learn, and now you have departed to serve. May God bless you. t _____________________________________ Leslie N. Pollard, Ph.D., D.Min., M.B.A., is President of Oakwood University.

CLASS OF 2020, WHEN YOU STEP OUT INTO THE WORLD AND YOU FIND THAT THERE ARE CHALLENGES, AND CHALLENGERS, SAY TO YOURSELF, “I WON’T GIVE UP, FOR IF GOD BE FOR ME, WHO CAN BE AGAINST ME?” ___________________________________________

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The new Oakwood University Career Advancement and Readiness Education (C.A.R.E.) Program is the key to unlocking your dream of an affordable college education. When you join this work scholarship program at OU, your earnings will be applied to reduce your educational expenses.

Beginning with the Fall 2020 cohort, the C.A.R.E. Program will offer you, as a first-time freshman student, a path to degree completion and career success.

For OUr students, C.A.R.E. means:

Be among

and • Access to the Oakwood University, HBCU experience. e “First 500” gift th • A faith-based education in a culturally diverse spiritual environment.

0 receive a $5akwood’s • Translating your service-learning into quality work experiences.

O certificate to eHouse • Career-oriented training through internships and co-ops. new Tre • Accelerated skill development and career preparation.

Bistro!

• Lowering yOUr educational debt by about 66%.* • Helping you graduate in four years with $10,000, or less, in personal student loan debt.** • Being ready for prospective employers, graduate education, or entrepreneurship.

• Participation in our award-winning Healthy Campus™ initiative.

What makes students eligible for the C.A.R.E. Program?

• Those admitted to Oakwood University as a first-time freshman for Fall 2020.

• Qualifying for federal financial aid (completing FAFSA).

• Possess an unmet financial need.

• A minimum GPA of 2.0+ or an approved Academic Student Engagement plan (ASE) with the Center for Student Success (CSS).† • Enrolled for at least 15 credit hours each semester.

• Occupancy in an Oakwood University Residence Hall while matriculating.

• Committed to working to defray educational expenses.

• Community minded.

• Dedicated to continuous development.

Restrictions may apply. *Lower than the average undergraduate Oakwood University student. **The amount of individual student loan debt is dependent upon multiple factors. †Students with an ASE must exhibit satisfactory academic progress.

Believe.

Belong.

BeHere.

Visit www2.oakwood.edu/care for more information or call 256.726.7356

REGIONAL NEWS

ALLEGHENY WEST

RAMAH JUNIOR CHRISTIAN ACADEMY SHINES DURING COVID-19

By BEN I A JEN N I NGS

D

uring the coronavirus pandemic, the Ramah Junior Christian Academy in Cleveland, Ohio, has utilized virtual platforms available to service their students and families. Because of their extensive Google training, Ramah teachers were able to move into the Google classroom format almost seamlessly, teaching with their students beginning March 16. They also used Zoom and Google Meet for virtual instruction.

Throughout these few months, Ramah provided a virtual tutor for math and language arts. This ensured that the remaining school year included content closely related to what students were accustomed to receiving. Ramah also hosted virtual parties, field trips, Show and Tell exercises, and a School Spirit Week.

“During this time, we are happy to say that the Ramah team were able to visit all 170 student families with care packages (Bubbles, Playdough, etc.) along with snack bags for social and emotional support,” said Celeste Giles, Ramah Junior Academy principal.

“Ramah, just like all of the schools across the nation, did not fall behind in transitioning to distance learning during the pandemic.” Dr. Violet Cox, Allegheny West Conference Education Superintendent, added, “It was beyond commendation to witness all teachers and the principal embrace various platforms of distance learning to create a seamless transition from ‘in-class’ to ‘at-home’ learning.”

Principal Giles and the teachers of Ramah made heroic visits to the homes

of all students. Both parents and students cheered as the caravan of cars performed their weekly “drive-by greetings” just to stay in touch with the school family. One of the many outstanding additions to Ramah’s virtual curriculum was their Week of Prayer that featured presentations by various pastors.

Feedback from parents regarding their child’s learning experience ranged from “I learned as well” to “my child was always engaged.” Dr. Cox concluded, “We salute the Principal and teachers of Ramah. They are truly Front-line Responders.”

Ramah also became a site that served breakfast, lunch and snack bags to students and the community following school closures.

Finally, to culminate the year for eighth graders, graduation signs were created and delivered to the homes of each graduate to showcase their success. t _______________________ Mrs. Benia Jennings is Communications and Multimedia Ministry Coordinator for the Allegheny West Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Top: Ramah Graduate Alay’a Grove; Middle: Ramah Graduate Victor Steele; Lower: From left, Janviere Lavender, Ramah Eighth Grade Teacher, Ramah Graduate Anthony Loyed and Ramah Junior Academy Principal Celeste Giles.

CAPTION NEED REWRITING

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REGIONAL NEWS

CENTRAL STATES

REGIONAL NEWS

SOUTH CENTRAL

YOUTH MAKE ESSENTIAL S.H.I.F.T. DURING PANDEMIC

EDUCATORS TRAVEL 200 MILES, SHOWING LOVE TO STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

Reported by BRITTANY W INKFIELD

Coverage by ANTHONY CHORNES II

T

he acronym S.H.I.F.T. stands for “Seeing Him in Frustrating Times.” That’s precisely what we’re encouraging our Central States youth to do during this pandemic. “We wanted to give the young people a platform to express themselves about how they’re feeling and what they’re going through,” explains Pastor Karsten Rogers of the Emmanuel Seventh-day Adventist Church in St. Joseph, Missouri.

During the program, young people join live meetings online and share their feelings about their disappointment with graduation, what it’s like being in the home with their families, and other relevant topics. Many people are exhausted. We are praying for the parents as well. This online ministry has been blessed to have dynamic speakers such as Pastor Ndubisi Nwade, Pastor Kyle Crawford, and Chaplain Kory Douglas.

One of the most powerful programs so far was during a graduation recognition program for the Central States Youth. There was a discussion with three male graduating seniors, De’Leion Whitcomb, Chris Walls, and Michael Henry. They spoke with such hurt and frustration that it was palpable. In addition to not having traditional graduation ceremonies, their college plans were also jeopardized because they didn’t know what would happen next. Walls shared that he was looking forward to a scholarship for track, but since his track season ended prematurely, he was unsure about the future. Hearing those personal experiences gripped the audience and

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brought awareness to what so many young people are going through.

“We’re excited for how God is blessing S.H.I.F.T. and we believe He’s going to do even greater things as we continue forward,” says Rogers.

S.H.I.F.T. meetings are scheduled every other Sabbath at 4 PM Central

_________________________

hen the teachers and principal of Greater Memphis Adventist Academy (GMAA) boarded the school bus on a sunny Sabbath afternoon, they knew they were in for an adventure. What they were not sure about was how many miles and hours it would take.

They wanted to physically see their students after teaching by teleconference for seven weeks. They wanted to thank parents (the “co-teachers”) in-person for their hard work during this ongoing pandemic. So, they agreed to take one Sabbath afternoon to visit all 20 of their families. The challenge? The school is in the largest (755 sq. miles) and most populous county in the state of Tennessee – Shelby County (which includes Memphis). And their students live all over the county. Some students even make a daily two-hour round trip from northern Mississippi to attend GMAA! But they did it! They took gifts, flowers, and smiles (sometimes hidden behind masks). They tried not to touch and hug, and they practiced social distancing. Students and parents gave gifts, waved signs, and poured lemonade. Everyone shared the joy of being a part of an SDA Christian school family where teachers and parents work together for the salvation of young people. Ellen White once wrote: “Love is the best teacher” (Fundamentals of Education, p. 58). After six hours and 200 miles of travel, the GMAA teachers had taught and had been taught. And they were already discussing how to make the tour even better next year! t ________________________________________

Brittany Winkfield is Communications Director for the Central-States Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Anthony Chornes II is Information Technology and Communications Director for the South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Time on the Central States Conference YouTube page. t

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that she knew something was on your heart, but she would not pry.”

“She was just texting us last week,” said Dwayne Crawford, owner of Byrd Tire in Hagerstown, Maryland. While they may not have always known her name, everybody in town knew the kind lady who stopped to chat and leave books.

“As a former vice president of the Review and Herald Publishing Association and Editor of Message Magazine (1999- 2007), one of the distinct privileges and experiences I enjoyed was the hiring of Pat Harris as my Executive Assistant and Associate Editor,” said Ron C. Smith, Ph.D., D.Min., President of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. “I was always impressed with her missional heart for the salvation of underprivileged people. Our professional, but fun-loving relationship as brother and sister transcended geographical relocations over the years since we worked for seven years together in the same office. I’ll never forget her passion for prison ministry and the circulation of Message Magazine copies in urban communities.”

IN MEMORIAM

PAT SPARKS HARRIS SEPTEMBER 25, 1947 – MAY 20, 2020

P

at Sparks Harris, the long-time backbone of Message (1999-2018), served most recently as our Associate Editor before she retired.

What distinguished her 20-year career was that she never lost the keen realization that her work mattered.

Pat’s life came to a tragic end [the week of May 20], the result of a horrific traffic accident on a Pennsylvania highway. In the final, final analysis, we expect to find that she was running the Lord’s errands.

Mischief and Mission Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Pat was known for her active personality and mischief. She shared that she often tasted soap as a consequence for her “smart mouth.” Growing up, Pat played the accordion, piano and organ. And, though a beloved little sister to several protective brothers, she was a true caretaker to them. She married Leonard F. Harris, a religious literature salesman, or “literature evangelist,” and associate publishing director in New York.

Together they reared two children, and then Pat became a single parent. Her children devoted their lives to ministry, like their mother. Daughter Lisa Quailey is part of the Volunteer Atlantic Union Adventist Youth Ministry (AYM) Compassion Advisory, and serves in the New York City Community Partner and Faith-based Networks. Her son L. David Harris is a prolific writer and longtime contributor to Message. He currently serves as the Communication Director for the Central Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Pat’s chil-

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dren with their spouses and children held an all-consuming and treasured space in Pat’s heart.

Family Ties “Sisters are really special, each one designed for us by God. Some by birth and some by Divine Purpose,” said Alvin Kibble, Vice President for Big Data + Social Media, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty, Literature Ministries, and Executive Coaching, Training and Development at the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. Both a childhood friend and long-time colleague, Kibble remembered their last meal together, one that included plenty of chatter, teasing and laughter.

“She was a lovely Christian woman who loved the Lord and His people and His Church,” said Daniel Jackson, President of the Adventist Church in North America. “She would come by my office from time to time and we would just talk and laugh. She would often put on a stern face and pretend to be upset with me or the brethren but then, after a few moments she would break into laughter. Both Donna [his wife] and I loved her.”

“We have lost a great friend, sister in Christ, soldier on the battlefield, and prayer warrior of God,” said Alex Bryant, Secretary for the Adventist Church in North America and Chairman of the Message Executive Committee. “I will forever cherish her warm smile and

“SHE WAS A LOVELY CHRISTIAN WOMAN WHO LOVED THE LORD AND HIS PEOPLE AND HIS CHURCH, ” SAID DANIEL JACKSON, PRESIDENT OF THE ADVENTIST CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA. ___________________________________

_____________________________________________ ___________________________________________

____________________________________________ ________________________________________ _______________________________

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thoughtful compassion. She seemed to always know intuitively when things were not quite right with you. At those particular moments for me, she would often come and just say that she was going to send up a special prayer for me. She did it in a way that you knew

Lifetime Ministry In 1985, as an adult learner, Pat completed her Bachelor’s degree in Public Health with an emphasis in alcoholism counseling from York College, part of the City University of New York network. She became the owner of Sparks Funeral Home in Brooklyn, the business her beloved brother Chester Sparks built from the ground up. Once, for a major protest, Pat loaned an empty casket to activist and civil rights leader, Al Sharpton. The casket was an important statement against police brutality and killings, a cause that stirred fire in Pat’s spirit. She also worked with influencer and activist Dennis Dillion, a pastor whose Brooklyn Christian Center ran a long-running black, weekly newspaper called the New York Christian Times.

Another central value for Pat was advocacy in the interest of young people and children. Fiercely protective and always engaged, she would often chastise senior adults who were less than patient and understanding. She hated their dismissiveness: “Excuse me,” she would point her finger, “how old was Jesus?”

It was the work of literature evangelism that defined Harris most. This intensely personal, middle-of-the-sidewalk kind of introduction to Jesus still works. She would regale, but not with stories of conquest. Instead, her eyes would moisten when she recounted the Spirit’s leading, the providential meetings, and the opening of hearts. She was grateful to play a part.

W

e once took a six-hour road trip.

Every gas station attendant, toll booth operator, and passerby received a book, magazine or tract. Sometimes she made me give it to them. I once told her I found an unpriced sharing book on the shelf in the media department at Wal-Mart. She looked away with a wryness that let me know she had been sharing in stealth mode. And, true to Christ’s mandate, Pat made sure she attended church services monthly at a Maryland prison from which she always left inspired.

Famous Last “The first time I met Ms. Pat,” said Garrison Hayes, Pastor of the Community Praise Center in Alexandria, Virginia, where Pat attended regular-

Pat Harris at 18.

ly, “we sat down at Sabbath lunch and talked for over an hour! We talked about how much she loved her family and she shared some of the fascinating and complicated parts of her upbringing. I was captured by her outstanding and honest storytelling abilities, and befriended by her endearingly infectious smile.”

Pat Harris was not one to stand in front of a crowd—ever—to tell her shockingly painful life-story. Yet, she shared it, personally, one-to-one.

Though so many knew of her personal heartaches, we also caught her testimony of forgiveness. Though we often shuddered to think of her history of childhood trauma and mistreatment, she schooled us in people-loving. Never one to waste a good lesson, she encouraged the habit of seeking God in prayer for everything. “And I’m not just talking to you,” she would say, “I’m talking to me.” t ________________________ Carmela Monk Crawford, Esq., is Senior Editor of Message Magazine.

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IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

KATHERINE LOUISE LATIMORE HAIRSTON

DORIS KIMBLE JONES

A Woman of Dignity, Elegance, Grace and Faith

Dedicated Administrative Assistant, Christian Educator and Pastor’s Wife

1927 - 2020

1926-2020

K

atherine Latimore Hairston was wife and partner to Elder Ralph B. Hairston and former first lady of the South Atlantic Conference.

She stood by Elder Hairston’s side supporting him in his pastoral ministry and evangelism. On April 17, 2020, Katherine Latimore Hairston rejoined Elder Hairston. Now they await the trumpet’s call together.

Katherine Louise Latimore was born April 18, 1927, the first of four children to the late Joseph and Sammie Latimore in Chicago, Illinois. Margaret, Marion, and Ralph were her siblings.

Katherine attended Wesley Avenue Elementary School in Chicago, and David Howard Junior High School, Booker T. Washington High School and Howard High School in Atlanta, Georgia, where she met Ralph Hairston. She received a Teacher’s Certificate from Edward Waters College in Florida, and was an outstanding substitute teacher for many years in the Florida and Georgia public and private school systems.

She received recognition for outstanding work and dependability. She was also a Nursing Assistant, Circulation Therapist, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistant. She was a charter member of the Greater Atlanta National Association of African American Business Professional Women, and received many certificates for dedication and contributions: The Shepherdess Club, Mt. Sinai Men’s Club, Quality Living Services, and Senior Companion Program.

Katherine lived a life of sterling moral character and had extraordinary courage and strength. She enjoyed working diligently, faithfully, and tirelessly, teaching and training children.

She was the director of the Children’s Tent activities and ministries at South

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Atlantic Camp Meeting sessions for several years.

She was commended for her unusual strength and drive in controlling a large number of children, teaching and training them in such a short time period.

She wrote and enjoyed beautiful poems. Her favorite poem was “Footprints of Jesus.” She treasured sending and receiving cards. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, swimming, working with her plants, playing the piano and singing before her husband preached.

At a young age, Katherine took Bible studies from a neighbor and was introduced to the Seventh-day Adventist church in a tent effort in Atlanta. Her mother was very impressed by Katherine’s faith and commitment to God, so she also decided to join the church.

They experienced joy in the Lord together. Ralph Hairston joined the Adventist church in California. While Ralph was attending Oakwood College, God touched his heart and told him to go back to Atlanta to get Katherine to be his wife. At the time of Elder Hairston’s death, they had been married for 70 years. Elder and Mrs. Hairston’s entire ministry was in the South Atlantic Conference territory: North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

They continued to love God with all their hearts and continued to serve God after their retirement in Atlanta.

Mrs. Hairston led a life of extraordinary courage and strength. She did not speak a lot publicly, but was a quiet storm. She was a woman of extraor-

D dinary grace and dignity sent to us by God “for such a time as this.”

She leaves a legacy of love to her loving children: Ralph Hairston, Jr., (Zanetta), Anthony Hairston (Ann), Angelia Hairston, Teresa Hairston and Derrick Hairston; her devoted sister Marion O’Neal; her grandchildren: Raymond Saunders, IV (Jennifer), Candice Butler, Terrell Saunders, Anthony Hairston, Jr., Crystal Hairston, Tracey Butler Carter (Tyrone), Samantha Hairston, Reggie Hairston, and Nathan Hairston; her great grandchildren: Raymond Saunders V, Ayana Warner, Jaxson Saunders, Ryan Butler, Anthony Hairston, Jailyn Hairston, Isaac Hairston, Ryan Butler, Ramira Hairston, Ryan Hairston, Kaira Hairston, Eriel Hairston, Kailyn Hairston, and a host of nephews and friends. t _____________________________________ Regional Voice Magazine expresses special thanks to the Hairston Family for this tribute.

oris Kimble was born April 21, 1926 in Independence, Louisiana, to Marie (Thomas) Kimble and Ernest Kimble. Her family relocated to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when she was a child. Her mother and all the children were gainfully employed in the operations of their family neighborhood store until Doris and her siblings completed high school. Her father was employed at the Standard Oil Company as a machine operator in Baton Rouge.

She attended and graduated from McKinley High School in Baton Rouge.

Her college career began at Southern University, then she relocated to Nashville, Tennessee. Doris studied and graduated from Tennessee State University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secretarial Science. Her additional studies included workshops and training sessions in Elementary Education.

The Kimble family were long-standing members at the affluent Methodist A.M.E. Church in Baton Rouge. Then Marie and Ernest Kimble attended an evangelistic tent effort conducted by Pastor W. W. Fordham. They, along with all of their daughters, joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church in their city, Baton Rouge. Elder C. E. Bradford was the first pastor assigned to this new church and the Kimble’s were all stalwart members.

Doris was extended a call to the Southwest Region Conference by her evangelist, who was then President W. W. Fordham.

She worked successfully in the Treasury Department as an Administrative Assistant for several years. Her winning personality and superb work ethics enhanced the performances of all she served in the Treasury.

She loved people and would go the last mile for anyone.

Pastor William Clark Jones met his sweetheart, “Sweetie,” Doris, in Southwest Region Conference and they later married.

They were blessed with two children: Wil-

liam Clark II and Cynthia Rosalind Jones Hammond. Her labors shifted to serving as a new pastor’s wife, mother, and SDA educator in church schools. She trained girls and boys for service in this world and the world to come. They were dear to her.

Then, the time came for this school teacher, choir director, caterer, wedding director, program coordinator, seamstress, gardener, and administrative assistant to move to the Northeastern Conference with her husband and children. She would successfully serve as Administrative Assistant in the Youth Department at the Northeastern Conference Office in New York. Her love for youth and the young-at-heart enabled her to score high once again.

As life progressed, the Lord brought her back to Southwest Region Conference as the “First Lady.” Doris developed the Shepherdess Club and Minister’s Wives Choir for Camp Meeting sessions. She directed other choirs and coordinated banquets to honor members of this great conference.

She later transitioned to the Southwestern Union Conference and finally retired, moving to Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband, also nicknamed “Sweetie.” He served in Trust Services at Oakwood University. During this time, my precious Aunt Dot mentored me, Carol Byrd, in many areas and skills.

Doris Jones passed away at 94 years young. Some persons knew her as Sweetie, Aunt Dot, Sister Jones, Mom and Mimi.

She was loving, kind, and simply fabulous.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, “Sweetie” Pastor W. C. Jones; her parents; her sisters, Mable Sterling and Helen Prescott; and a special aunt, Modest Jackson.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Gladys Ball, her beloved children, William Clark Jones and Cynthia Rosalind Jones Hammond (Robert). Her special grandchildren include: Aisha Jones Washington, Ebony Hammond LaiHing

(Stephen), Robert Hammond II and Sierra Hammond. Her cherished great grandchildren are: Bellamy Washington, Steven LaiHing II, and Divya LaiHing. She also leaves a host of loving nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends.

Chaplain Douglas Simons, Pastor C. E. Bradford, Pastor W. C. Byrd, and Dr. Carlton P. Byrd (Senior Pastor, Oakwood University SDA Church) counseled Mrs. Jones and her family members as well. The family greatly appreciates this kind service and the smallest to the greatest actions her Caretakers rendered.

She dedicated her life in unyielding service to Jesus Christ and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She leaves a rich legacy of service, and never-ending love to everyone she met. She will be greatly missed. We look forward to her call to meet King Jesus in the air. t _____________________________

Dr. Hammond

Special Thanks from Regional Voice Magazine to the family members of Mrs. Doris Jones who completed this tribute. Her devoted daughter, Dr. Cynthia Jones Hammond, contributed vital information and photography. Mrs. Carol A. Byrd, her loving niece, coordinated this coverage.

Mrs. Byrd

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CORON AVIRUS PA NDEMIC UP DAT E

IN MEMORIAM

THE LATEST STATISTICS • GLOBAL AND USA VIEWS

ZELLIMA JOYCELYN HOWARD

8,242,999 GLOBAL CONFIRMED CASES 445,535 GLOBAL CONFIRMED DEATHS 216

Committed to God, Family, Church and Youth

1962 - 2020

COUNTRIES, AREAS OR TERRITORIES WITH CASES Last update: 18 June 2020

Z

ellima Joycelyn Howard was born on February 10, 1962, on the island of St. Kitts, West Indies.

She was the third daughter of Eliza Audain Williams and Letsom Dublin. Zell, as she was nicknamed by her parents and siblings, spent the early years of her life living on both the islands of St. Kitts, West Indies and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Her faith in God was rooted in having a Christian home. The values she learned at an early age were continued throughout her life. She loved singing hymns and gospel songs to bring in the Sabbath each week. The core of her commitment was relational. She graduated from the University of Virgin Islands and Oakwood University.

She loved mentoring youth and young adults, whether at work, at church or in her home. She married Pastor Darryl L. Howard in 2009 and together they lived their dream of serving and loving people. As First Lady, she worked untiringly with various projects for the local church, the youth federations, the South Atlantic Conference, the Southern Union, and the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists.

She created the Praise in the Park event, many block parties, concerts, and assisted with Mega Impact 2019. As a Master Guide, she helped with church activities and established the Pathfinder Club at First Riverdale SDA church.

Also, as a local Pathfinder Club Director, she led her club to conference, Union, and NAD International camporees.

Because of her belief in the sanctity of marriage, she participated in many of the SAC Marriage Retreats and in the Praise Tabernacle and Maranatha At34

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DATA PROVIDED FROM THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

USA

2,155,572 CASES

CDC | Updated: June 18 2020 4:57PM

USA 117,632

TOTAL DEATHS CDC | Updated: June 18 2020 4:57PM Jurisdiction

lanta (The B.O.M.B.) Marriage Club ministries.

She worked at Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University for more than 25 years as an Executive Administrative Specialist. In this capacity, she impacted thousands of students’ lives.

She loved Jesus and shared Him at every opportunity. “What does the Word say?” was her answer to many of their questions regarding life and morality.

Her daily devotional time fortified her to face difficult episodes throughout her life. She also enjoyed couponing, fashion apparel, cooking, entertaining and lending supportive assistance to others. Through her love for cooking and with her entrepreneurial skills and gifts, she started SLH Event Inc. and cofounded CS Catering and Event Planning. No matter where she lived or what she did, she continued these interests along with others for most of her

adult life. Zellima believed that helping others was an important aspect in doing God’s work.

It is with sadness that we announce the death of Zellima Joycelyn Howard on May 1, 2020, in Atlanta, Georgia.

She and her husband have five children: David III, Darryl Alex II, Denisha, Jordan, and Denzel. Each of the children had a Seventh-day Adventist Christian education.

Zellima will be missed for her kind spirit, her perseverance, her work ethic, her passion for serving others, and her love for the church and her family.

Please send all condolences, pictures, or memories to ZellimaMemories@gmail. com. t _____________________________________ Regional Voice Magazine expresses special thanks to Pastor Darryl Howard for this tribute to his wife.

TOP 20 STATES - CASES

New York New Jersey California Illinois Massachusetts Texas Florida Pennsylvania Michigan Maryland

Total Cases Jurisdiction

Total Cases

174,201 167,703 157,015 135,046 106,151 96,335 80,676 80,236 66,497 63,229

60,030 56,238 48,634 46,855 45,429 42,422 41,013 40,924 32,143 31,296

Georgia Virginia Louisiana North Carolina Connecticut Ohio Indiana Arizona Tennessee Minnesota

DATA PROVIDED FROM THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL

TOP 20 STATES - DEATHS

New Jersey New York Massachusetts Illinois Pennsylvania Michigan California Connecticut Louisiana Florida

12,769 8,551 7,734 6,666 6,361 6,036 5,208 4,219 3,062 3,018

Maryland Ohio Georgia Indiana Texas Colorado Virginia Minnesota Arizona Washington

3,016 2,611 2,575 2,475 2,062 1,631 1,586 1,357 1,239 1,226

DATA PROVIDED FROM THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL

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NATIONALL NEWS BRIEF

THE OTHER PANDEMIC—

WHEN BLACK LIVES DON’T MATTER The unbelievable has happened again—three more times.

Lives were lost. Blood was shed. Breath was snuffed out.

BREONNA TAYLOR

A

hmaud Arbery, 25, who lived with his mother near Brunswick, Georgia, liked to jog to keep in shape. During a run, he entered a home under construction and looked through some rooms. He did not remove any items or damage the property. But shortly thereafter, Arbery was pursued by a father-and-son team, then killed with a shotgun fired by the son.

Former police officer Gregory McMichael, 64, and son Travis McMichael, 34, allegedly took Arbery for a burglar and pursued him in their truck.

The pursuers cornered Arbery and the three argued. Then Travis got out of the truck armed with his shotgun.

He fired three times, hitting Arbery twice and killing him on February 23, 2020. Arbery was unarmed.

Prosecutor Jackie Johnson of the Brunswick Judicial Circuit recused herself from the case because Gregory McMichael had worked in her office.

The case then went to District Attorney George E. Barnhill in nearby Waycross, Georgia. He likewise recused himself from the case after Arbery’s mother protested that he had a conflict of interest because his son also works for the Brunswick district attorney.

Even so, before DA Barnhill gave up the case, he wrote a letter to the Glynn County Police Department in

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B AHMAUD ARBERY ringing support of the McMichaels, stating they could legally display firearms under Georgia’s open carry law, and could legally shoot their “burglary suspect” because of the struggle.

Gregory McMichael and Travis McMichael were arrested May 7 and charged with aggravated assault and

murder. Ahmaud Arbery would have turned 26 that day. t _____________________________________ Excerpts based on the report “What We Know About the Shooting Death of Ahmaud Arbery,” The New York Times, May 22, 2020.

reonna Taylor, 26, an award-winning Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), may literally have never known what hit her the night of March 13, 2020.

Members of the Louisville, Kentucky, police force rammed the front door of her apartment while she slept. The narcotics squad officers, Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly, Det. Myles Cosgrove and Det. Brett Hankison were all in plain clothes, without body cameras, to execute a search warrant for drugs.

Except they were in the wrong house, terrorizing the wrong people. Breonna’s boyfriend Kenneth Walker, 27, dialed 911 to report the break-in.

Officers said they knocked at the door, then identified themselves as police once inside. Neighbors said they heard neither. The action itself was termed a “no-knock” search.

Walker fired once with a legally purchased and registered firearm, hitting Sgt. Mattingly in the leg. The squad responded with a spray of bullets, hitting EMT Taylor eight times, killing her.

Walker was arrested and charged for shooting the officer. He has since been released and the charges dismissed.

According to the warrant, EMT Tay-

BREONNA TAYLOR, 26, AN AWARD-WINNING EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN (EMT), MAY LITERALLY HAVE NEVER KNOWN WHAT HIT HER THE NIGHT OF MARCH 13, 2020. ____________________________________________ ______________________________

_____________________________________

_________________________________________ ________________________________________

_______________________________________________ ______________________________________________

lor was accused of accepting USPS packages for an ex-boyfriend who police were investigating as an alleged drug trafficker—who had used her address. Ironically, this suspect had been taken into custody before the fatal police shooting. Somehow the squad missed this.

The case is now being handled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

EMT Taylor’s mother, Tamika Palmer, filed a wrongful death lawsuit in April.

The officers have not been charged.

Louisville Police Department Chief Steve Conrad, a 40-year veteran of law

enforcement, announced his retirement via Facebook, effective June 30. t _____________________________________ Excerpts based on the ABC News report “FBI opens an investigation into the death of Breonna Taylor,” Christina Carrega, May 22, 2020.

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NATIONALL NEWS BRIEF

NATIONALL NEWS BRIEF

A GLIMMER OF HOPE

GEORGE FLOYD

T

he last case that has horrified the world came on May 25, 2020, Memorial Day. George Floyd, 46, entered the Cups Food store in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to purchase a package of cigarettes. A caller from the store dialed 911 and reported that Floyd made his purchase with fake bills. When confronted, the caller said he appeared to be “drunk and not in control of himself” and refused to give back the cigarettes.

Officers Thomas Lane and J.A. Kueng arrived, handcuffed Floyd and tried to get him into the back of a squad car. Floyd said he was claustrophobic and didn’t want to get into that car.

Then Officers Derek Chauvin and his partner Tou Thao drove to the scene in a police SUV. They walked a dazed and stumbling Floyd across the street to the SUV. Floyd fell beside the vehicle.

Three of the four officers reached down to restrain him. One, Officer Chauvin, pressed his right knee into Floyd’s neck, crushing him into the pavement.

Several civilians stopped to witness the scene, to record it on cell phones, to inform the officer that Floyd’s nose was bleeding and to ask that he be allowed to get air. Despite pleas from Floyd himself that he could not breathe, no other officer intervened. Chauvin kept his knee jammed in for eight minutes and 46 seconds. In the last two minutes and 53 seconds, Floyd was unresponsive. When the EMT crew arrived, they simply loaded his limp form into the ambulance. No lifesaving measures were taken there or during that fateful ride to the Hennepin County Medical Center. George Floyd was dead.

His death would ignite protests across America from East to West, North to South, and swept around the world. The U. S. President would briefly retreat to his bunker when protests got too close to the White House. He

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E would later emerge with orders to call in the National Guard and use tear gas on the protesters so he could walk over to a nearby church to pose cloaked in “law and order” with a Bible in one hand—held upside down.

George Floyd could very well have broken the law. He had fentanyl in his system the day he died. He allegedly tried to pass counterfeit bills less than US$20.00 in value. He may have been guilty as sin, but was the crime worth crushing out his life like one of those cigarettes?

His body was placed in a gold casket.

Public figures from the Rev. Al Sharpton to the Rev. Jesse Jackson stepped forward to eulogize him. Republican Sen. Mitt Romney marched with protesters in Washington, D.C. There were protests in London, Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Prague, Sydney, Australia, and a silent one where marchers took a knee—in Rome.

All four police officers from the scene were fired and subsequently arrested.

Derek Chauvin is charged with second degree murder.

Floyd was honored like a king. He was buried in a Houston grave, beside the mother he cried out for with his last breaths. And that is where his 6-yearold daughter must visit him now. t _____________________________________

SEVERAL CIVILIANS STOPPED TO WITNESS THE SCENE, TO RECORD IT ON CELL PHONES, TO INFORM THE OFFICER THAT FLOYD’S NOSE WAS BLEEDING AND TO ASK THAT HE BE ALLOWED TO GET AIR. ___________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

_________________________________________________

__________________________________________________ _______________________________________________

________________________________________________ _____________________________________

arlier on May 25, Memorial Day 2020, before George Floyd was crushed to death in Minneapolis, a Harvard-educated birdwatcher sought out a spot in New York City’s Central Park to enjoy his hobby. Christian Cooper just happened to also be black.

He spotted Amy Cooper [no relation] walking her cocker spaniel without a leash—a violation of park regulations.

He asked her to leash her dog.

Amy’s response was to advance on Christian, who repeatedly said to Amy, “Please don’t come close to me.”

He also, wisely, video recorded their encounter with his cell phone.

Amy demanded that he stop recording her while she clutched her dog as it twisted, whimpering, in a stranglehold. She told him she would call police

with her cell phone and tell them that “There’s an African-American man threatening my life.”

Christian responded, “Please call the police! PLEASE call the police!” He kept filming.

Christian later said, “I always try to be polite [but] if someone tramples your rights, you push back.”

When NYC police arrived, they determined that this was indeed a verbal dispute but made no arrests and issued no citations.

Christian’s sister posted his video on Twitter and it went viral.

Amy lost her job with the investment firm Franklin Templeton, the Central Park Civil Association called for her to be banned from the park, her dog was recalled to a shelter, and she has received death threats in the wake of the incident. She later began an apology to a local news team with “I am not a racist…”

The shelter reviewed her case and

HE SPOTTED AMY COOPER [NO RELATION] WALKING HER COCKER SPANIEL WITHOUT A LEASH—A VIOLATION OF PARK REGULATIONS. HE ASKED HER TO LEASH HER DOG. ____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ _____________________________________________ ________

gave the cocker spaniel back. Franklin Templeton made their own public apology and did not give her job back.

Christian Cooper told the media about his discomfort with the whole affair. Then he unknowingly made this revelation of his character to CNN: While Amy Cooper may be racist, “I find it strange that people who were upset...that she tried to bring death by cop down on my head, would then turn around and try to put death threats on her head. Where is the logic in that?” he said. “Where does that make any kind of sense?” t _____________________________________ Excerpts from CBS News and CBS This Morning reports, May 27, 2020, and CNN LIVE May 27, 2020. _____________________________________ Kyna Hinson, Editor of Regional Voice Magazine, compiled the reports on Arbery, Taylor, Floyd and Cooper for this issue.

Excerpts based on the MPR News report

by Chris Graves, June 1; CBS Evening News coverage June 7; CNN live coverage, George Floyd funeral, Houston, June 9, 2020.

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REGIONAL NEWS

ALLEGHENY EAST

CHURCH OF THE ORANGES YOUTH WORK IN FOOD PANTRY AND OFFER JOB TRAINING Coverage by LATASHA HEWITT

C

OVID-19 has provided the youth department in the Church of the Oranges (COTO) in Orange, New Jersey, an opportunity to serve.

Since the pandemic began, they have helped to serve more than 400 families every week through their church’s food pantry that partners with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. They not only provide food to families and college students, but also offer training to help those in the community secure jobs in the food industry.

At least three or four young people volunteer every Wednesday, allowing the more elderly and/or vulnerable staff volunteers to shelter safely at home. They assist in picking up heavy items, stocking goods and packing bags for distribution. Geston Pierre, youth pastor at COTO, is encouraged by their commitment.

“Since the pandemic hit, our amazing young adults have stepped up to the plate and volunteered every single week,” says Pierre.

Valencia Maponya, COTO’s Adventist Community Service leader, organizes the pantry operation and provides an environment that youth volunteers appreciate. “Sister Maponya makes volunteering in the pantry an enjoyable experience. I look forward to working there each Wednesday and being a positive force in my church community,” shares Rachael Groce, the COTO AY leader.

Volunteering has also proven to be a rewarding experience for the youth participants. Troy Holder, volunteer and young adult group leader, says, “I find joy in giving, helping others, and serving my community. We are following Jesus’ example of satisfying their physical need before giving them spiritual food.”

Chris Reid, another youth leader, echoes

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those sentiments: “I’m glad that I’m able to help others and my heart goes out to them during this time. They’re like family, our family.” t _______________________ LaTasha Hewitt is Communications Director for the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

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REGIONAL NEWS

NORTHEASTERN

HOW ADVENTIST COMMUNITY SERVICES OPERATES DURING COVID-19 Reported by DR. KEICHA GOSLING

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OVID-19 has affected the numbers of volunteers, hours of operation, food distribution hours, and other programs at the Northeastern Conference Adventist Community Center. As a result of school closings in New York City, the Queens Center for Progress was closed, also reducing the number of volunteers. These volunteers were very instrumental in carrying out the daily activities at the center. Their volunteer Spanish translator from the same agency had to suspend classes as well. However, volunteers from the community came to assist.

The food distribution style was changed from clients’ choice to grabto-go grocery bags (pre-packaged bags).

The hours of operation were changed from four days to two days. However, the staff extended the food distribution hours in order to accommodate social distancing, serving only ten people at a time.

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Safety measures at the center now include gloves for all volunteers, hand sanitizers and N95 masks. They also share information and guidelines from the Food Bank for NYC and NYC Mayor’s Office with the volunteers.

They actively practice social distancing and hand washing. Each client is asked to use hand sanitizer from dispensers placed throughout our facility.

“The line of masked folks wrapped around several city blocks as social distancing was practiced. People have stood in line up to four hours at some places to receive their supplies. But they are so appreciative to be able to get needed groceries,” said one volunteer.

The center has been able to serve community members from Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Flushing, Astoria, Woodside, Elmhurst, Whitestone, Rosedale, Richmond Hills, and Westbury. Five volunteers from the community have served with the food distribution. The center is thank-

ful for their service, and is especially grateful to six additional volunteers who assisted from these congregations: Corona, Ephesus, the Silo French and Queens Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Churches.

In addition to assistance from the North American Division Adventist Community Services, funding was received from the Food Bank for NYC, the NYC Human Resources Administration, United Way of New York City, and individual donors. t ________________________ Dr. Keicha Gosling is the Northeastern Conference Adventist Community Services Executive Director. For more information, contact her at (347)5272444 or by email ncacscenter@gmail.com.

The Northeastern Conference Adventist Community Center is located in Corona, New York.

_____________________________________ JeNean Lendor, Assistant to the President for Communication in the Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, coordinated this coverage. For more information, contact her at 115-50 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11434(718) 291-8006 ext.

2223 www.northeastern.org Twitter: @NEC_SDA7

Northeastern Conference Adventist Community Center Statistics • In March 2020, we distributed 1304 bags of groceries and served 2853 people (1547 Adults, 452 seniors, and 854 children) • So far in April 2020, we’ve distributed 2006 bags of groceries and served 4832 people (2845 adults, 446 seniors, and 1541 children) • Areas served: Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Flushing, Astoria, Woodside, Elmhurst, Whitestone, Rosedale, Richmond Hills, and Westbury • Funding was received from Food Bank for NYC, NYC Human Resources Administration, United Way of New York City, and individual donors.

• On April 29, 2020, the Northeastern Conference Adventist Community Services Center served 375 families. t

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REGIONAL NEWS

SOUTHWEST REGION

YOUTH BEAT CHALLENGES, CONTINUE VITAL MINISTRIES Coverage Coordinated by LESLIE SOUPET

In the Twinkling of an Eye What a mighty God we serve! This has been by far the most difficult period that most, if not all, of us alive today have seen. This time has brought unprecedented upheavals for our youth and young adults, not just here in our conferences, but all across the world.

Classes were disrupted; graduations were cancelled; church services were altered or even halted—in just the twinkling of an eye.

We Responded While we would never minimize the trauma that COVID-19 brought upon us all, we must underscore the unequivocal and unprecedented response of our youth and young adults all across the Southwest Region Conference. We saw this segment of our population spring into action at a moment’s notice to provide ministries for each other in ways

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that were unimaginable. In less than a week, we started a “youth and young adult worship experience” code-named YAWE. Additionally, we have already had two seasons of the Bible Bee challenge, with all seven youth and young adult federations participating. We have sponsored club ministries training programs and have offered honors on how to use technology to keep vital ministries going. Our federations have initiated Level-Up, a program designed to take ministry to a higher level for the cause of Christ, and other unique activities to engage the youth during this pandemic.

God was Shifting the Atmosphere We still believe that this COVID-19 is a result of some of the things that would happen in the last days, as Jesus told us in Matthew 24 and other parts of the Bible. However, we also believe

that God is using this world-changing event to show us that even in troubled times, we still have the five barley loaves and two small fish.

The Southwest Region Conference Associate Youth Director, Pastor Vanston Archbold; the Administrative Assistant, Lulleither Massiah; and the seven Federation presidents all contributed to the various programs and ministries that are a part of this great movement. t ________________________ Leslie Soupet is Executive Administrative Assistant, Office of the President, and General Field Secretary for Diversity, Communication and Women’s Ministries at the Southwest Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

OUR FEDERATIONS HAVE INITIATED LEVEL-UP, A PROGRAM DESIGNED TO TAKE MINISTRY TO A HIGHER LEVEL FOR THE CAUSE OF CHRIST, AND OTHER UNIQUE ACTIVITIES TO ENGAGE THE YOUTH DURING THIS PANDEMIC.

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LIKE OTHER REGIONAL CONFERENCE PIONEERS, ELDER BRADFORD REPORTS THAT CHURCH ESTABLISHMENT OF THAT TIME EXPECTED REGIONAL CONFERENCES TO FAIL.

LEGACY SERIES

ELDER

________________________________________

___________________________________________ _______________________________

CHARLES E.

BRADFORD

By DANA C. EDMOND

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GOD HAD DONE THE UNTHINKABLE. A BLACK MAN BECAME HEAD OF THE ADVENTIST CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA. __________________________

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e are excited in this edition of The Regional Voice introduce a new feature: The Legacy Series. In each edition, Elder Samuel Thomas, Jr. (Senior Pastor, Central SDA Church in Columbus, Ohio) and I shall be writing about two African-American Adventists who had a major impact upon our church.

Some of these names will be wellknown to long-time Adventists—and some will not. But we wanted to introduce these special people to our younger generations in particular, so they may know how the Lord helped us to come this far. We are counting on them to keep the legacy that is being passed to them and take us the rest of the way.

We begin with two names: Elder Charles E. Bradford and Elder Harold L. Cleveland: Elder Bradford was born in Washington D.C., the youngest of seven children. He was the son of a preacher, or a “PK,” in the Adventist parlance.

He began his ministry in 1946 after finishing Oakwood. He was called to the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference, a State Conference, since there was no Regional Conference in the Southwest at that time. But shortly after his arrival in the Baton Rouge/Covington/Ham-

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mond, Louisiana district, the Southwest Region Mission (now the Southwest Region Conference) was formed, placing Elder Bradford on the ground floor of the establishment of Regional Conferences.

Like other Regional Conference pioneers, Elder Bradford reports that church establishment of that time expected Regional Conferences to fail.

He said, “They thought we’d be back,” meaning black congregations would return to State Conferences. But 76 years later, Regional Conferences are still here.

Though Baton Rouge was the largest city in the district, there was no church building there. The congregation met in the YMCA and in funeral homes.

Prayer Meeting was held in the members’ homes. “We were vagabonds,” Elder Bradford recounted to me in that distinctive voice that retains its power into its ninth decade.

But while he was there, the Lord blessed him to build a beautiful church—the talk of the town at that time—for around $50,000.

Then he was called to Dallas, Texas.

From there, he accepted a call to the Central States conference office, where he served in what was called then the Home Missionary Department (now

_____________________________________

Personal Ministries). His love for evangelism took him around the conference conducting tent meetings.

After holding a meeting in St. Louis, the Pastor there retired and the conference asked him to assume responsibility for the church, which he did until 1956. Then he accepted a call to the Northeastern Conference as Home Missionary Leader.

He continued fulfilling his calling as a successful evangelist, expanding his ministry to Bermuda, where he became the first African-American Adventist to conduct an evangelistic campaign on that island.

In 1961, members who were deadlocked in a constituency session for the Lake Region Conference heeded the recommendation of Elder F.L. Peterson, who was attending the meeting as the representative from the General Conference. They chose Elder Bradford to become the President of the Lake Region Conference.

This was remarkable, since Elder

Bradford was a young man (in his late 30s), who was not from Lake Region and who knew no one in the conference.

B

ut God knew who he was. He was preparing him for even greater administrative responsibilities— even though at that time, administration in the Adventist Church for a black person beyond a Regional Conference was not only unheard of, it was all but unthinkable.

But “the Lord seeth not as man seeth,” says the Word of God. After nearly 10 successful years as the President of Lake Region, Elder Bradford received a call to the General Conference to become an Associate Secretary.

His assignment was the North American Division, which at that time was not a separate entity. The leader of the North American Division was formally titled at that time Vice President of the North American Division.

In late 1978, the President of the

General Conference, Elder Robert Pierson, retired due to ill health. He was succeeded by the Vice President for North American Division, Elder Neal C. Wilson (father of the current General Conference President, Dr. Ted N.C. Wilson).

In his remarkable book, Protest and Progress, Dr. Calvin Rock details the amazing story of how Elder Bradford— the lone minority among five candidates for the position—survived until the election field narrowed down to Elder Bradford and one other candidate.

Elder Bradford was told in confidence by a high-ranking official, “Do not expect to be elected.”

As was the custom in those days, when a minority member was up against a white candidate and the voters were overwhelmingly white, the white candidate won overwhelmingly. Surprisingly, however, the other candidate decided to decline and Elder Bradford was the last candidate.

To his credit, Elder Wilson, who was

chairing the meeting, refused requests to start the process over and insisted on a straight “Yes or No” vote on Elder Bradford. Elder Bradford was elected overwhelmingly.

God had done the unthinkable. A black man became head of the Adventist church in North America.

He served with distinction until his retirement in 1990. His wife of 72 years, Mrs. Ethel McKenzie Bradford—a remarkable woman with an equally remarkable memory—served as a secretary in the South Atlantic Conference at its inception and is the last serving member of that office. Elder and Mrs. Bradford ultimately settled in Huntsville, Alabama.

They have been a blessing to the Adventist community there; in particular, in the raising of thousands of dollars for the building of Oakwood Adventist Academy—Elder Bradford’s alma mater.

The Bible says, “A man’s gifts maketh room for him.” The remarkable, God-given preaching, writing and administrative gifts of Elder Charles E. Bradford made room for him in places that he did not expect and where no black person had ever been.

And the Seventh-day Adventist Church is better for it. t ________________________ Dana C. Edmond, Director, Office for Regional Conference Ministry, is also Publisher of Regional Voice Magazine.

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LEGACY SERIES

HE WAS PROUD OF THE SDA MESSAGE–PRESENT TRUTH DOCTRINE, THEOLOGICALLY PURE, SPIRIT OF PROPHECY INCLUSIVE.

I REMEMBER MY PASTOR. . .

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ELDER HAROLD L. CLEVELAND

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_____________________________________ ___________________________________

By SAMUEL THOMAS, JR.

L HE WAS IMPECCABLE IN HIS ATTIRE BECAUSE HE CONSIDERED IT HONORING GOD TO BE WELLGROOMED AND APPROPRIATELY DRESSED.

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ike all boys at the age of seven, I was impressionable—eager to learn, keenly observant, and deeply influenced by my family and church family.

We were members of Atlanta Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Berean was renowned–marked by its significance and standing in the South Atlantic Conference, in Regional work and in the Atlanta community at large. I was proud to be a member. I looked forward to Sabbath every week. Church members were thoughtful, kind, and compassionate, and Berean was known for its generosity and liberality in giving.

Every Sabbath, there was one man who, when he entered the pulpit, commanded respect and reverence for the House of God and the worship service. He was serious, yet kind. He was exacting, yet soft-spoken. He was impeccable in his attire because he considered it honoring God to be well-groomed and appropriately dressed. He was what all pastors are called to be—the guardian of the business affairs of his church; a father to the young children in his congregation; a mentor, spiritual guide and confidant to his parishioners; and a visionary for the future of his congregation. He was stalwart and courageous as a pastor, and undaunted and unapologetic as a true Christian. He taught me that God reaches down to pull us up to Him. That true representation of Christ was living up to godly standards, not showing the world how far we could pull God down to us.

He was Elder Harold L. Cleveland, my Pastor.

I recall listening with keen attention to every word he spoke. Doctrinally sound and unabashed in his use of the Spirit of Prophecy, he was a solid and engaging preacher.

Every year he would organize the congregation to visit designated neighborhoods— connecting with residents and building relationships in preparation to grow Berean’s membership through evangelistic series. Elder

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Cleveland would conduct open air meetings in the sweltering summers, preaching to Atlanta’s diverse professionals. He understood the need of canvassing and recruiting from every level of society. He knew that each of us has a role in church witness and operational fulfillment. He rose to the challenge of appealing to those who had the resources to bring financial support and stability to Berean, and who had the social and educational backgrounds to be an inspiration and guide to his young members.

Elder Harold Cleveland’s legacy was firmly established when he built the edifice now known as Berean Outreach Ministry Center (BOMC). Originally, Berean was located in a modest community on Joseph E. Lowery Blvd., in Southwest Atlanta. Elder Cleveland pursued a program of aggressive evangelism for the next several years. He held tent meetings in communities that would guarantee a harvest of souls, eventually baptizing more than 500 individuals. Then, with his vision of growth and expansion, he presented a proposal for building a new church in the solid middle-class neighborhood of Collier Heights. To fund the construction, Elder Cleveland engaged an Atlanta financial institution to assist in the sale of bonds.

Yet, for all of his outstanding accomplishments, to a seven-year-old boy, I remember his gentleness and beckoning hand when I would open the door of his pastor’s study and peek in.

When, in the spring of 2004, as a pastor myself, I arrived at Orchard Park SDA Church in Chattanooga, I saw Elder Harold Cleveland’s photo. Next to him was his father, William Clifford Cleveland, who served as First Elder of the Orchard Park congregation for more than 30 years. Also in the photo were Harold’s brothers, William James Cleveland, Sr., (who served as president of the Southwest Region Conference), and Edward Earl Cleveland, the world class evangelist.

Men are proven through struggles, conflicts, and challenges. Jeremiah knew those tensions. Yet, he expressed his reliance on Jehovah: “Thou drewest near in the day that I called upon thee: thou saidst, Fear not” (Lamentations 3:57).

Legacies often begin with succession. Men build men. The sequence is Biblically documented. Ruth 4:17 records the connection: “And the women her neighbors gave it [the child] a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse; the father of David.”

Obed is only important because he was the ancestor of David. Obed crafted Jesse, who crafted David.

G

eneral Douglas MacArthur understood generational legacy and the need for subservience to God when he penned the words: “Build me a son, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, brave enough to face himself when he is afraid, one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory. . . .

“Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high; a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men; one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past. . . .

“Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, and the meekness of true strength. Then, I, his father, will dare to whisper, ‘I have not lived in vain.’”

The list of men mentored or hired by Elder Cleveland is a Who’s Who of Regional Conference leaders. They include: Delbert Baker (Former General Con-

ference vice president; Vice Chancellor, Adventist University of Africa, Kenya).

Charles Drake (Former president, Central States Conference and Chair of Regional Caucus).

Buford Griffith (Executive Secretary, Southwest Union Conference).

Willie Lewis (Former president, Allegheny West Conference).

Walter Pearson (Formerly Associate Director, Ellen White Estate; Speaker/ Director, Breath of Life Ministries).

In a world where pastors are lauded for their replication of the mega-church pastors’ model, and the Sunday Protestant world’s music and worship style, Elder Harold L. Cleveland’s pastoral ministry was a witness to his personal testimony, I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel. He was proud of the SDA Message–Present Truth doctrine, theologically pure, Spirit of Prophecy inclusive.

He was not engrossed in ecumenism

or bashful about the uniqueness of Adventism.

He felt humbled and privileged to be a major voice and force in delivering our message. His record of sacrifice, service, and commitment in ministry is a model we need today. We recognize and honor his life as pastor, evangelist, and administrator because what he did for Christ is his greatest legacy. t _______________________ Elder Samuel Thomas, Jr., is Senior Pastor of the Central Seventh-day Adventist Church in Columbus, Ohio.

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HOPE SERIES

Cliff Harris DAP Co-Director

DAP MAKES MAJOR MOVE, AND A

BIG DIFFERENCE

By PATRICE THOMAS CONWELL

The miracle God worked for this man, God has worked for others.

He can work a miracle for you.

Call Us Anytime: 256.232.4400 Email Us at:

dapcalif@aol.com

Visit Our Website:

www.drugalternativeprogram.org

Christ leads Us to Help You, We’ll lead You to Christ for Help.

DrUg AltErnAtiVE PrOgrAm

W

hen Cliff and Freddie Harris bought a home in Huntsville, Alabama, it was intended to be their getaway from the challenges of running the Drug Alternative Program (DAP)—their substance recovery program.

Begun in 1987 in Grand Terrace, California, DAP is a 12-18-month, home-based recovery program for adult men. Since it started, DAP has serviced hundreds of men, garnering a 65 percent success rate—much higher than the 15 to 20 percent success rate of other programs around the nation.

For 12 years, their Huntsville home provided the temporary solace and respite they needed to recharge.

With family and friends all around, they relished the few months they spent each year in the Huntsville community.

After 30 years of guiding DAP’s success, the Harrises left Grand Terrace and DAP in 2017 to retire to Huntsville. Having mentored a former client to take the DAP reins, they felt satisfied that the ministry they founded would continue its work.

As Cliff and Freddie settled into retirement, their reputation as experienced leaders in substance abuse recovery resulted in requests for their help. They agreed to lead an overcomer’s support group for Oakwood University (OU) students and a substance abuse support group for Oakwood University Church (OUC) because once a servant leader, always a servant leader.

“The Lord reminded us of His two-fold purpose for our lives—marriage and the birth of Drug Alternative Program,” says Freddie. “And at that time, we made a commitment to do some phase of this program until Jesus comes,” adds Cliff.

The Harrises bonded with the two groups who came out each week to benefit from their years of wisdom and guidance. It was during that time that Cliff began feeling bothered by a sneaking suspicion that he tried to ignore. Was the Lord calling him to begin a new DAP site in Huntsville? Like Jonah, his and

AS CLIFF AND FREDDIE SETTLED INTO RETIREMENT, THEIR REPUTATION AS EXPERIENCED LEADERS IN SUBSTANCE ABUSE RECOVERY RESULTED IN REQUESTS FOR THEIR HELP. ______________________________________

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Freddie’s first impulse was to resist and run the other way.

“We were tired,” Cliff says as he thinks back. “I’m over ‘three score and 10.’ The amount of time and energy required to shepherd drug-addicted men toward a new way of thinking and living is draining. After 30 years, we had nothing left.”

B

ut like Jonah, Cliff and Freddie eventually accepted the Lord’s call and started scouting for a location. True to form, God led Cliff right to the house He’d picked out for their first recovery home.

“I was driving down a street and saw this huge house for sale,” recalls Cliff.

“The Holy Spirit impressed me to go inside.” Once there, Cliff discovered several realtors viewing the property.

The owner noticed him walking around the property and saw the sign “Drug Alternative Program” on his truck.

“She looked up our ministry on the web and talked with me personally about DAP,” continues Cliff. “She liked what we were doing and decided that she wanted us to have her home so we could minister to the less fortunate and make a difference in the community.”

The house, set on 3½ acres of land, is an eight-bed facility. And while it was Cliff and Freddie’s intent for DAP to remain headquartered in California, God showed them that Huntsville was the better place.

“As we worked to open the Huntsville location,” explains Freddie, “we discovered that everything in California was much more expensive. Our state costs to house clients, costs to run the landscaping business, insurance costs, as well as operational costs for each home was more expensive and rising. It made more economical sense to switch our headquarters to Huntsville.”

Although it’s been challenging, the Harrises are watching the Lord orchestrate the transition. A neighborhood contact has offered to help them find

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commercial clients for DAP’s work therapy program—their lawn/landscaping service. Through this part of the program, DAP’s recovery clients work to pay off one half of their program expenses. Their professional work can already be seen around OUC and Oakwood Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In addition, four of their five current clients have formerly accepted Jesus into their lives through baptism at OUC. While Cliff was caught in the grip of drug addiction for 20 years, a story he chronicles in his book DeathDance, he never imagined his life would end up where it is now. The graphic details outlined in the book are intended to glorify the Creator’s redeeming love and grace that fuel His transforming power over men and women.

“I want to help multitudes of people come to Christ,” Cliff says. “Just as Satan tempts, traps and terminates unsuspecting victims on life’s highway, Christ rescues, redeems and restores those entangled in the ugliness of evil.”

As the Lord has led Cliff and Freddie through their DAP ministry over the last 33 years, so they’ll continue to follow His lead in the years to come.

When God allows them to finally retire—for real—they’ll do so knowing that they’ve worked tirelessly to add to God’s kingdom, one recovered addict at a time. t _______________________

“I WANT TO HELP MULTITUDES OF PEOPLE COME TO CHRIST” CLIFF SAYS. “JUST AS SATAN TEMPTS, TRAPS AND TERMINATES UNSUSPECTING VICTIMS ON LIFE’S HIGHWAY, CHRIST RESCUES, REDEEMS AND RESTORES THOSE ENTANGLED IN THE UGLINESS OF EVIL.” _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________)_______ __________________________________________________ __________________________________

________________________________________________

__________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _____________________________________

________________

Patrice Thomas Conwell is a freelance writer for her own company, PeeTee Communications, LLC (www.ptcommunications.biz). She lives in Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband and son.

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KIA ANNOUNCEMENT: DO YOU NEED A CAR? 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.