Summer 2025

MOVEMENT MAJOR TRANSITIONS ARE COMING GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION 62 IN 2025 MEET YOU IN ST. LOUIS

Published

THE GREAT ADVENT MOVEMENT

Almost 50 years ago I first heard this as a young pastor, but I still remember. The words came during my first assignment in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands. Elder Leon Woodcock, one of the Shiloh SDA Church elders at that time said, ‘This is a movement, not a settlement.”

lems that require time to solve. I know in my own case, there were some things during my leadership in South Central that I had just figured out as I was walking out. As I said, there are some issues that just require time.

tions we did not see that when we needed to see it. It took a while, but we were eventually able to get the policy change reversed. And I learned a valuable lesson. Regional Conferences are linked together in a unique manner. A lot of leadership change in some of our conferences can affect all of our conferences.

I visited a Baptist church a few years ago. In the lobby of that church were pictures of all the pastors who had served that church in the previous 90 years. There were three pictures. If that were an Adventist church, there probably would have been 20 pictures.

We reserve the right to publish and edit your submissions and letters.

REGIONAL CONFERENCE OFFICES

ALLEGHENY EAST CONFERENCE

DR. TREVOR KINLOCK, PRESIDENT LaTasha Hewitt, Communication Director P.O. Box 266 Pine Forge, PA 19548 (610) 326-4610. www.myalleghenyeast.org

ALLEGHENY WEST CONFERENCE

MARVIN BROWN, PRESIDENT

1080 Kingsmill Pkwy. Columbus, OH 43229 (614) 252-5271. www.awconf.org

CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE

ROGER BERNARD, PRESIDENT

Cryston Josiah, Communications Director 3301 Parallel Parkway Kansas City, KS 66104 (913) 371-1071. www.central-states.org

LAKE REGION CONFERENCE

GARTH GABRIEL, PRESIDENT

JeNean Lendor, Communication Director 19860 South La Grange Road Mokena, IL 60448 (773) 846-2661. www.lakeregionsda.org

NORTHEASTERN CONFERENCE

DR. ELDEEN KING, PRESIDENT Lavern Shurrup, Communications Director 115-50 Merrick Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11434 (718) 291-8006. www.northeastern.org

SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE

CALVIN B. PRESTON, PRESIDENT James Lamb, Communications Director 3978 Memorial Drive Decatur, GA 30032 (404) 792-0535. www.southatlantic.org

SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE

BENJAMIN JONES, PRESIDENT Roger Wade, Communications Director 715 Youngs Lane Nashville, TN 37207 (615) 226-6500. www.scc-adventist.org

SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE

DR. MICHAEL OWUSU, PRESIDENT Arnaldo Cruz, Communications Director 1701 Robie Avenue Mt. Dora, FL 32757 (352) 735-3142. www.secsda.org

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

DR. CARLTON P. BYRD, PRESIDENT

Leslie Soupet, Communications Director 2215 Lanark Avenue Dallas, TX 75203 (214) 943-4491. www.southwestregion.adventistchurchconnect.org

REGIONAL DIRECTORS/COORDINATORS ROSTER

Virgil Childs, Vice President Regional Ministries Pacific Union Conference 2686 Townsgate Road Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 413-7100. www.puconline.org Cell: 909-225-6438

Jonathan Smith, Assistant to the President Black Ministries, Arizona Conference Cell: 769-232-6664 ismith@azconference.org

James Scarborough, Coordinator African American Ministries Central California Conference (831) 262-3838 famar@sbcglobal.net

Oneil Madden, Coordinator African American Dept. Nevada-Utah Conference Cell 702-875-5979

pastoromadden@aol.com

EuGene Lewis, Vice President North Pacific Union Conference 5709 N. 20th Street Ridgefield, WA 98642 (360) 857-7000. www.npuc.org

Dr. Andrea Trusty-King, Vice President 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

“The Great Advent Movement” is a term that describes the Seventh-day Adventist Church as a whole. It encompasses our history and our beliefs. But for those of us who are privileged to work for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the term “The Great Advent Movement” is literally that. It is a movement. If you work for the church, you are subject to moving around from one place to another and from one assignment to another.

Actually, this is happening in several areas of church leadership now. In the territory where our office is located, there will be a new Oakwood University president, a new South Central Conference president and a new Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM) executive director (that means someone else will be writing these articles in a few months).

The new ORCM executive director is currently the Central States Conference president. That means there will be a new person, who is currently serving somewhere else, in the Central States Conference position. And when that person takes the conference position, someone new will fill the position left vacant at that time.

Furthermore, the Atlantic Union has voted to allow the Northeastern Conference to divide their territory and population to form a new conference. This means that there will be a new Regional Conference and a new Regional Conference president, (pending the approval of the North American Division).

Last, but certainly not least, a global General Conference session is coming in July, and these meetings always bring several transitions in “The Great Advent Movement.”

We have devoted a significant portion of this edition of the Regional Voice to sharing information about the individuals coming into these new positions. The coming of these new leaders brings new ideas, new energy, new ways of doing things, and that usually is a good thing. Doing the same things, the same way, “forever and ever more,” as one of my former members used to say, is not usually healthy for an organization.

One of my favorite leadership gurus, Carey Nieuwhof, put it this way: “Not every new idea is a good idea. But having no new ideas is a bad idea.”

One of the ways organizations get new and different ideas is to open themselves to different, new leaders. However, changing leaders too often can be harmful as well. If some change can be a good thing, too much change can sometimes be too much of a good thing. In the corporate and sports worlds, a constant turnover of leaders is rarely the mark of successful organizations. I sometimes wonder if we turn over leaders (administrators, pastors, church school principals, etc.) at a faster rate than is best.

For example, when I left the leadership of the South Central Conference after serving for seven years, I was the longest-serving regional conference president at that time. Which meant that in the time that I served as South Central president, the other eight regional conferences had elected different leaders to be presidents than when my term of service began. Some conferences had elected more than one new president during the time I served South Central. I just do not think it is the best thing for all nine regional conferences to completely turn over their executive leadership in seven years.

By the end of 2025, the executive leadership of all nine regional conferences will have completely turned over again, this time taking nine years. There will have been nine new regional conference presidents in that time period.

Is it possible that regional conferences turn over their leaders (including pastoral leaders, church school principals, etc.) too often? I think perhaps we do. There are some prob-

For example, I am convinced that we are going to have to look at the way we recruit and assign the people who are employed by our conferences. It is pretty clear to me that we have a growing shortage of teachers. According to the numbers that the Oakwood University Education Department gave me, they graduated about seven education majors this year, and five in the previous year.

The human resources director in one conference told me that they had 17 openings for teachers in their conference this year. One conference. Seventeen openings. Contrast their needs with seven education graduates from Oakwood.

As a modern slang expression would put it, “The math isn’t mathing!”

Now it’s true; Oakwood isn’t the only Adventist school. But from what I am hearing, other Adventist schools are in the same boat.

“Houston, we have a problem.”

This problem is not going to go away on its own, and it’s not going to go away overnight. It will require a comprehensive plan using a very different approach to recruiting, hiring, training and retaining teachers. And that approach will require time.

But time is in short supply for leaders in entities that have a lot of leadership turnover.

So, what can be done? I would like to suggest three things: 1. Perhaps Regional Conferences Should Not Have Term Limits. (I think four or five already do). Some conference administrators may need to revisit that concept. I was in, what I believe was, the first conference to institute term limits, and at the time I voted for them.

Term limits guarantee turnover. And I do not know of a single entity in the North American Division other than regional conferences that have them. That places regional conference leaders at a disadvantage in terms of things like institutional memory. That may not sound like a big deal but believe me, it is. And I have some specific examples I remember once during my leadership in South Central, a denominational entity came to us and asked for our help with a particular problem that had been caused by the actions of another denominational entity. They asked if we could change a particular policy. Their proposal sounded reasonable, and it was clear that they were disadvantaged because of the actions of the other entity, so we agreed to change our policy. But because so many of our leaders were new to their positions (due to leadership turnover) we did not foresee that the policy change would collectively cost us millions of dollars. There are some major challenges we are facing that, from a human standpoint, require some leadership stability to properly address them. We wound up being hurt far worse than the entity we were trying to address. But because so many of us were new to our posi-

Can a leader remain in a position too long? Absolutely. We have all seen that. And while there is a need to make leadership changes, we need the courage to do what needs to be done and do it in a Christ-like manner

Somewhere between a leader being around too long and not being the leader nearly long enough is a happy medium, and I believe God can help us find it.

2. Leaders Must Realize That They are not Immortal and Their Leadership is not Eternal. I have been blessed to have several mentors in my life. My most valued mentor was my predecessor in South Central, Elder Benjamin P. Browne.

Elder Browne frequently quoted something from the Spirit of Prophecy, I think from The Desire of Ages. In essence it said that God brings a man (or woman) to a certain work and when he/she has taken it as far as they are qualified to take it, God brings in someone else.

As I heard one of my former pastors, the late Elder Walter Pearson, say at one time, “God has a deep bench.” For those of you not familiar with the sports phrase, a “deep bench,” it means that you have a lot of good players on your team who you can put into the game.

As leaders, we must realize that if we stay in a position long enough, we shall inevitably reach the point where we have taken the entity we serve as far as we are qualified to take it. (One of the reasons why I am leaving this position is because I think I have gone as far as I can go.) And practically speaking, it is always better to realize that you have reached the end of the line and it’s time to get off the bus than for other people to come to that realization for you.

But how can you know when you have taken the entity that you serve as far as you are qualified to take it? I would not presume to provide hard and fast rules for that. First of all, that is a spiritual decision between the leader and God.

Still, I close these thoughts with this final point:

3. As a Leader in Any Position in God’s Church, When Coming in, Ask God to Reveal What He Wants You to Accomplish. Once God allows you to accomplish those things (and sometimes what God has called you to do is to prepare the way for the next person to accomplish something, the way John the Baptist did for Jesus or what David did in gathering the materials for Solomon to build the temple), then ask God to show you one of two things: What to do next, OR, where to go next.

I think He’ll show you. That’s what I am asking Him to do for me. t

Dana C. Edmond is Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), and is also publisher of Regional Voice magazine.

4

PUBLISHER’S COMMENTARY

The Great Advent Movement

“This is a movement, not a settlement.”

If you work for the church, you are subject to moving around from one place to another and fromone assignment to another.

By Dana C. Edmond

8

COVER STORY

Meet the Oakwood University

President, Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown

This election is major. It is historic. Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown is the first female leader, administrator, dean or professor to serve as president in the nearly 130-year history of Oakwood. She has worked successfully in all of these capacities.

Interview by Dana C. Edmond

14

PASSING THE TORCH

Elder Roger Bernard is the Next ORCM Director

Central States Conference President Roger Bernard will succeed Elder Dana C. Edmond, who is retiring, as the Office for Regional Conference Ministry Director, January 1, 2026.

Interview by Dana C. Edmond

16

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

South Central President Benjamin Jones to Retire

After serving this incredible conference for 54 years, Pastor Jones announced his decision to retire at the end of December 2025.

By Roger R. Wade

Dr. Bryant Taylor, Coverage Coordinator

18

COMMENCEMENT 2025

Oakwood University

Graduation is Complete

Read President Leslie Pollard’s address to his final class; see the 2025 class officers’ listing and Class of 2025 data. Oakwood University faculty and staff statistics are also given here.

Data Compiled by Debbe Millet

20

OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY

Campus Expansion During the Pollard Administration

See the listing of some of the buildings that were reconstructed, remodeled and refurbished across the campus, along with the Oakwood Farm rejuvenation, over the course of the Pollard years.

Photo Overview

22

OAKWOOD FAREWELL

Gala Marks Dr. Leslie Pollard’s 15

Years of Service

This formal evening was one of several

events given for Dr. Leslie N. Pollard and for Dr. Prudence Pollard in recognition of their Oakwood years.

Photography Courtesy of the Oakwood University Office of Marketing Communications

24

WITH COMMENDATION

Elder Yvonne Collins, RCRP CFO, Retires December 31, 2025

Elder Collins’ retirement will bring 20 years of outstanding service and innovation in church finance to a close.

By Dana C. Edmond

26

WITH COMMENDATION

Mrs. Margaret R. Weathers, Not Famous, but Faithful

The work of faithful people like my Executive Assistant Mrs. Margaret Weathers is not always public, but it makes the work of those in public positions possible. We honor her extensive capabilities, and God takes note.

By Dana C. Edmond

28

ORCM NEWS

From Oakwood to ORCM: Summer Internships Begin

David Still, a junior majoring in finance with a minor in accounting, is stepping into financial operations. Ismael Ben Ubiera, an interior designer from the Dominican Re public, currently majors in Graphic Design

with a minor in TV and Video Production. He brings an international perspective to ORCM's communications team.

Text and Photograhy By Gerson Pancorbo

30

GENERAL CONFERENCE NEWS

GC Session 62 Runs July 3 to 12, 2025

Back in 2022, after holding an abbreviated session due to COVID, the General Conference Executive Committee voted to keep these dates for the 2025 session in St. Louis, at the Dome of the Americas. The meetings will convene as planned.

Adventist News Network Report

Dr. Ifeoma Kwesi

Mr. Harry Swinton

We pause to honor these leaders who gave great service at home and abroad. They dedicated their gifts to God and their love to families and to their communities. Regional Voice magazine thanks the Northeastern Conference of SDAs; the Palmer and Willis families who experienced two losses; along with the Elliott, Hale and Swinton families for sharing these life records and stories with us and with our readers.

52

RETIREMENT ZONE

How I Made Retirement Work for Me

Interview with Elder Ralph Peay, D.Min.

For some, retirement is simply a new phase of purpose-driven living. Elder Ralph Peay exemplifies this continued dedication. With a remarkable 52 years of ministry behind him, he has remained actively engaged in life.

Conducted By Dr. Delbert W. Baker

56

SCHOLARLY FEATURE

Revitalizing Adventist Education:

BY DANA C. EDMOND

Asignificant portion of this edition of the Regional Voice deals with recent, major transitions in our church. The largest entity in the regional work (though technically, an entity of the North American Division) is Oakwood University. There is nothing else like Oakwood in the black Adventist church.

A MEETING THE NEW OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, DR. GINA SPI VEYBROWN

Therefore, the election of a new Oakwood University president is, as my friend and colleague Elder Steve Ruff would say, ”That is major, baby!”

And it is. In fact, there aren’t too many occurrences in black Adventism, or in Adventism period, more “major” than the election of the Oakwood president.

To make this even more major was the historic nature of this election. Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown is the first female leader to serve as president in the nearly 130-year history of Oakwood.

Oakwood University and Regional Conferences of the Seventh-day Adventist Church have a historic, unique, important, and what I term a “cyclical” relationship:

Regional Conferences provide Oakwood with many of its students and millions of dollars each year in subsidies (each regional conference provides Oakwood with a percentage of its tithe. South Central pays a larger percentage because Oakwood is in its territory and thus receives the benefit that comes from that. Two of the three largest of the 1,200 plus regional conference churches in tithe are in Huntsville. This is largely because Oakwood University is in Huntsville).

Oakwood takes the money and the students that regional conferences provide

t OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY AND REGIONAL CONFERENCES OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH HAVE A HISTORIC, UNIQUE, IMPORTANT, AND WHAT I TERM A “CYCLICAL” RELATIONSHIP. s

and educates those students. Many then become workers and constituents in the regional conferences, thereby providing the tithe dollars and workers for their respective regional conferences. Then, those regional conferences send those monies to Oakwood so the university can educate and train more students to become workers and constituents, and so on.

As the Executive Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry (ORCM) it was important to discuss that historic, unique, important, cyclical role with the new president. It was also important that we work together. The Oakwood University president is on several boards and committees associated with ORCM, beginning with the Regional Conference Presidents Council.

bered that meeting and I told her what I said about her over the 15 years after that meeting—that she came across with charisma and dynamic style.

The phrase I have used for 15 years since that interview was, “She took the place (meaning the entire Oakwood University campus) by storm.” She absolutely did.

In our 45-minute meeting, she came exhibited those same traits.

Make no mistake, Dr. Spivey-Brown has tons of personality. Furthermore, notwithstanding all of the alphabets behind her name, she is a very down-to-earth person. I came away impressed.

She then mentioned that we also met when I came to her church in Maryland. I told her I did not remember that meeting, but my youngest sister was with me, and that she did remember the meeting.

The outgoing president, Dr. Leslie N. Pollard, and I have maintained an excellent relationship for 15 years. I was hoping to cultivate that same quality relationship with Dr. Spivey-Brown, during my final seven months in office prior to my retirement. Thus, shortly after her presidential election, which ironically occurred in the boardroom of our office, I reached out to her and requested a meeting. She graciously agreed.

We met via Zoom, and our meeting opened rather humorously.

My executive assistant set me up in our boardroom which has a long table. When I hold Zoom meetings there, our AV people tell me that I am supposed to sit at the far end of the table. But doing that means I can barely see the person on camera. They look like they are seated in another state.

So, at 10:28 a.m., the face of someone I do not know and that I can barely see appears in the distance. So, I say to the person, “Is this the president-elect?” And from the distance comes the response, “That’s what they tell me.”

We began our meeting by reminding each other that this was not our first meeting. We had met twice previously. Ironically, both of us remembered one of the meetings, but not the other. And each of us remembered a different meeting!

I shared with President-Elect Spivey-Brown that I met her when I was a member of the Oakwood Board of Trustees that interviewed her for the Oakwood presidency 15 years ago.

She did not remember meeting me then. But I remem-

It was also impressive that she showed up for our 10:30 a.m. meeting before 10:30 a.m. I am almost fanatical about starting things on time, for the very practical reason that people do not like having their time wasted. I have discovered that if people think that my meeting will start late, they will simply come even later.

Dr. Spivey-Brown proceeded to ask several questions about our office, its functions and operations. I shared a Power Point presentation about the regional conferences in general and our office in particular, and how they both related to Oakwood.

The meeting went by swiftly and productively. Dr. Spivey-Brown was both engaged and engaging. Near the close of the allotted 45 minutes, Dr. Spivey-Brown informed me that she had to leave at exactly 11:15, which was also my time for another meeting. So approximately one minute before that time, we closed with prayer and promises to re-connect when she arrives for good in Huntsville.

I left our meeting very impressed with President-Elect Spivey-Brown. I believe that the Lord was in her selection as Oakwood University president of our school and that He will be with her in her leadership. t

Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), and publisher of Regional Voice magazine, produced this original report.

I LEFT OUR MEETING VERY IMPRESSED WITH PRESIDENT-ELECT SPIVEY-BROWN. I BELIEVE THAT THE LORD WAS IN HER SELECTION AS OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT OF OUR SCHOOL AND THAT HE WILL BE WITH HER IN HER LEADERSHIP.

tDR. SPIVEY-BROWN, WHO BECOMES THE FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT IN THE 129-YEAR HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION, LEADERSHIP, AND A DEEP COMMITMENT TO OAKWOOD’S MISSION OF PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SERVICE THROUGH EXCELLENCE IN FAITH, SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP.

March 28, 2025

Oakwood University Announces the Selection of its 12th President

HUNTSVILLE, AL – The Board of Trustees of Oakwood University today is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown, Ph.D., RN, MSA, FAAN, FNAP, FADLN, as the 12th president of Oakwood University. The announcement concludes a comprehensive and prayerful search process. Dr. Spivey- Brown will officially assume leadership on July 1st, 2025, succeeding Dr. Leslie Pollard, who has led the institution over the last 15 years.

Dr. Spivey-Brown, who becomes the first female president in the 129-year history of the university brings a wealth of experience in higher education, leadership, and a deep commitment to Oakwood’s mission of preparing students for service through excellence in faith, scholarship and leadership. With an impressive background in administration, academia, and ministry, Dr. Spivey-Brown is uniquely positioned to lead Oakwood University into its next chapter of growth and innovation.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown to the Oakwood family,” said Dr. G. Alexander Bryant, Chair of the Oakwood University Board of Trustees. “She is a dynamic, spirit-filled, higher educational administrative leader with an impressive record of enrollment growth and academic excellence. During this critical time in the history of this university, the board has prayed and fasted for God’s direction in this selection process.”

Dr. Spivey-Brown has most recently served at Howard University for the last 10 years as the Dean in the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences. With over two decades of experience in higher education administration, she has played a pivotal role in academic program development, accreditation, and strategic leadership.

Prior to her role at Howard University, Dr. Spivey-Brown held key leadership positions at Loma Linda University and Washington Adventist University, where she spearheaded graduate and undergraduate program expansion, secured multi-million dollar grants, and strengthened accreditation standards. As a recognized consultant and subject matter expert, she has advised institutions on program accreditation and healthcare disparities. A fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, Dr. Spivey-Brown continues to shape the future of nursing education through research, mentorship, and advocacy for diversity in healthcare. Dr. Spivey-Brown was the 2023 coveted Gold Award winner, from the Arnold P. Cold Foundation, an honor which demonstrates national recognition in medicine and healthcare.

“I am deeply humbled that God chose me to be the 12th president of Oakwood University for such a time as this,” said Dr. Spivey Brown. “I look forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders to build on Oakwood’s rich history and advance its mission and vision.”

As a champion for academic excellence, diversity, and spiritual growth, Dr. Spivey-Brown is committed to strengthening Oakwood’s legacy as a premier institution of higher learning and advance its mission of Jesus’ soon coming for future generations.

Media Contact: Richard Hodnett Executive Director Marketing Communications & Media Production 256-726-7202 pr@oakwood.edu

THE INCOMING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ORCM ELDER ROGER BERNARD

BY DANA C. EDMOND

Beginning on January 1, 2026, the Executive Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM) will be Elder Roger Bernard. He is currently president of the Central States Conference, headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas. He succeeds Elder Dana C. Edmond, who retires on December 31, 2025, after nearly 48 years in ministry.

Elder Bernard was born in Washington D.C., the third of nine children, to Roger Sr. and Geraldine Bernard. He was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, attending the Ephesus SDA Church that has produced other denominational leaders such as Dr. William T. Cox Sr., current director of the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP); Elder Joseph W. McCoy, former South Central Conference president and later founder of the RCRP, and Dr. Leslie N. Pollard, outgoing Oakwood University president.

Upon graduating from Oakwood in 1989, Elder Bernard began his denominational service as a church school teacher at the Ephesus SDA School, the same school he attended years earlier. He so thoroughly enjoyed his time as a teacher that he says, “I would still be teaching if the Lord had not called me into pastoral ministry.”

Recognizing that call, the president of the Southwest Region Conference at that time, Elder R. L. Lister, invited him to join the pastoral staff of Southwest Region, where he served for 11 years.

He then accepted a call to the Bermuda Conference where he served as a pastor and departmental director for three years.

Next, he accepted a call to the St. Louis Berean SDA Church in the Central States Conference. From that position, he was called to be the executive secretary. When the late Elder Maurice Valentine accepted a call to become the executive secretary of the Lake Union Conference in 2015, Elder Bernard succeeded him as the Central States president.

His regional conference presidential peers recognized his leadership gifts and asked him to serve as president of the Regional Conference Presidents Council.

He concludes his 10 years of service as the Central States president at their conference session on August 3. His time at ORCM begins on September 1. He and Elder Edmond will begin a time of transition and he will assume the leadership of ORCM on January 1, 2026.

He brings to his new responsibilities in Huntsville his wife of 38 years, Ivona, and their three daughters, Bria, Braelyn, and McKenzie.

We salute him for his divinely inspired service in the past and wish him well in this new role. t

Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), and publisher of Regional Voice magazine, produced this report.

Elder Roger Bernard t HIS REGIONAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENTIAL PEERS RECOGNIZED HIS LEADERSHIP GIFTS AND ASKED HIM TO SERVE AS PRESIDENT OF THE REGIONAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS COUNCIL. s

The Charles and Etta Dudley Center

PASTOR BENJAMIN JONES JR. ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

AFTER MORE THAN HALF A CENTURY OF SERVICE

At the recent South Central Conference executive committee meeting, Pastor Benjamin Jones Jr., president of the South Central Conference, shared news that marks the end of an era. After serving this incredible conference for 54 years, Pastor Jones announced his decision to retire at the end of December 2025.

In a heartfelt address, Pastor Jones reflected on his ministry journey, which began in the Dothan, Alabama district before taking him through Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and other areas within the South Central region. “It has been a wonderful journey,” he said, “I have enjoyed a tremendous ministry and made wonderful friends.”

“IT HAS BEEN A WONDERFUL JOURNEY,” HE SAID, “I HAVE ENJOYED A TREMENDOUS MINISTRY AND MADE WONDERFUL FRIENDS.” s

BY ROGER R. WADE

Pastor Jones expressed deep gratitude to his administrative team, including Dr. Toussaint Williams, Executive Secretary; Elder Sonja Crayton, Chief Financial Officer; and countless staff members, pastors, teachers, administrators, and laypersons who have supported him over the years. “This year marks my 54th year of serving South Central,” he shared. “You’ve given me your all, and I’ve tried to give you my all in return.”

While preparing to retire, Pastor Jones assured the South Central family that he plans to remain active within the conference. He intends to serve as a deacon at his home church, First Church in Huntsville, Alabama, and will continue to support the ministry in various ways. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m not leaving until the end of December 2025,” he emphasized. “Even

after retirement, I will still be a member of South Central and plan to stay involved.”

The South Central president expressed gratitude to the conference family for their unwavering support and prayers throughout his ministry. “Please pray for me, and I’ll pray for you,” he said.

“You’ve been a blessing to me, and I hope that the ministry I have enjoyed with you has also been a blessing for you.”

As Pastor Benjamin Jones Jr. prepares to close a remarkable chapter in December 2025, his legacy of dedication, service, and faith will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come in South Central and beyond. t

Roger R. Wade is the Communications Director for the South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Dr. Bryant Taylor, Associate Editor of Regional Voice magazine, coordinated this coverage.

South Central Conference office

Elder Benjamin Jones

THE COMMENCEMENT 2025 PROGRAM REMARKS

DR. LESLIE N. POLLARD

DATA COMPILED BY DEBBE MILLET

As I reflect on my 15 years as President of Oakwood University, I am honored and humbled to witness the growth and achievements of each graduating class. This will be my last graduating class as President, and I couldn’t be more grateful to close this chapter with a group as remarkable as the Class of 2025. Your accomplishments are a testament to the hard work of not only yourselves but of the faculty and staff who have been instrumental in your transformative journey. It is their dedication that has prepared you to leave an indelible mark on the world.”

“As you don your caps and gowns adorned in the symbolic colors of sage, white and cream, take a moment to appreciate their significance. Sage—a color representing wisdom and tranquility—reflects the knowledge you have gained during your time here. White symbolizes purity, peace, and new beginnings, serving as a powerful reminder of the fresh starts that await each of you. Cream signifies the bond you have forged with one

another and the nurturing environment that Oakwood has provided.”

“In closing, I urge you to carry the lessons learned at Oakwood with you, embodying the spirit of resilience, faith, and unity as you navigate the complexities of life beyond these

walls. Stay connected with one another, support each other, and remember that even when faced with adversity, you are and always will be—still standing.”

“Congratulations once again! I pray for God’s abundant blessings upon each of you as you embark on this exciting new journey.”

Pastor Prince Lewis

Consecration Speaker

Pastor Prince A. Lewis was raised in Miami, Florida, and is a proud product of Christian secondary education. He graduated from Miami Union Academy (MUA) and from Oakwood University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theology. Pastor Lewis also pursued graduate studies at Oakwood University, and earned a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies with an emphasis in Church Development. He was a member of Oakwood’s inaugural graduate class of 2011. Currently he is pursuing his Doctor of Ministry.

He is married to Dr. Dawn McCalla-Lewis, MD, a passionate and dedicated Family Medicine physician. They have been blessed with five children.

Currently, Pastor Lewis serves as the Senior Pastor of the Decatur Seventh-day Adventist Church in Decatur, Georgia.

Dr. James D. Doggette Jr.

Baccalaureate Speaker

Born in San Bernardino, California, Dr. James Doggette Jr. is the second of four sons of Dr. James and La-Shaun Doggette. He graduated from Oakwood University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theology. In 2016, he earned a Master of Arts in

DEGREES CONFERRED BY LEVELS:

GRADUATE DEGREES . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

DIETETIC INTERNS . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 4

ADULT EDUCATION

TRADITIONAL UNDERGRADUATE .

TOTAL GRADUATES

FACULTY MEMBERS (including Full-time, Part-time, and Adjunct)

10

232

272

Pastoral Studies from Oakwood University. In 2022, he was elected Director of Young Adult Ministries for the Lake Region Conference, where he currently serves.

TOTAL NUMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

STAFF MEMBERS (including Full-time, Part-time, and Contract).

TOTAL NUMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

In 2023, Dr. Doggette completed work for a doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Southeastern University. And on March 1, 2024, he was commissioned as a First Lieutenant Chaplain in the United States Air Force.

Oakwood University 2025 Senior Class Officers

President Faith Ampadu

Vice President Everick Spence Jr.

Treasurer Michael D. Warren

Secretary Zenovia Graham

Chaplain Angelique Fladin

Events Coordinator David Holmes

Assistant Events Coordinator Tyrece Thurman

Public Relations Coordinator Saina Berthe

Student Success Coordinator Brittni Kennedy

Sergeant-at-Arms Gevenson Ylluste

Parliamentarian Kendall Crawford

He is happily married to his wife of 12 years, the former Demia Tunis of Chicago, Illinois. Together, they are the proud parents of three children.

Judge Cynthia Adams Commencement Speaker

Chief Judge Cynthia C. Adams has been serving as a Superior Court Judge since 2017. She is both the first female and the first African American to serve as a judge in Douglas County, Georgia, on the state or superior court level. She was originally appointed in 2017 and has been re-elected twice to continue serving. In January 2025, Judge Adams once again made history when she was sworn in as the Chief Judge of the Douglas County Judicial Circuit. More than 150 years after its founding in 1870, Douglas County celebrates its first female and its first African American Chief Judge of the Superior Court. Prior to being on the bench, she worked as a District Attorney in the special victims Crimes Against Children Unit, where her commitment to fairness and justice earned her the distinction of Trial Attorney of the Year.

Judge Adams has a passion for children—not just her own, but all children. Through her previous work in the Crimes Against Children Unit and her work in the juvenile courts, she had the opportunity to help at-risk children. She is particularly proud of creating a reading library for the children involved in the Douglas County Juvenile Court.

Judge Adams is the youngest of her siblings. She came to the United States at the age of 10 when her parents moved from the Bahamas t. o the United States. She is a graduate of Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) and the University of Georgia School of Law. She is a member of the Atlanta Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church, and is married to her college sweetheart and best friend, Dwayne Adams. Dwayne is a partner at an Atlanta law firm. They have two children. t

this report.

Ms. Debbe Millet, Managing Editor for the OAKWOOD Magazine conducted research and compiled data for

Judge Cynthia Adams

Dr. James D. Doggette, Jr.

Pastor Prince Lewis

Dr. Leslie N. Pollard

CAMPUS EXPANSION DURING THE POLLARD ADMINISTRATION

Over the course of Dr. Leslie N. Pollard’s presidential administration at Oakwood University, many of the buildings and structures have been refurbished, remodeled or rebuilt. Here is a selection of those projects:

• The E. I. Cunningham Hall, completed in 1947 and renovated in 2012, houses the Center for Student Success, Office of Admissions, Financial Aid, Student Accounts, Career Connections Registrar’s Office, and Faculty Development

• The H. E. Ford Hall, completed in 1954 and renovated in 2014-2015, houses Communication Department offices. Adjacent to Ford Hall, the Leroy and Lois Peters Media Center houses Oakwood University Broadcast Network (OUBN), studios, offices, and editing suites.

• The F. L. Peterson Hall and University Conference Center, completed in 1955, was renovated during the Pollard administration as a center for conferences, seminars, meetings, and guest lodging.

• The G. E. Peters Hall, completed in 1964, houses faculty offices, classrooms and the fine arts auditorium for the Department of Music is now under current renovation.

OVER THE COURSE OF

DR. LESLIE N. POLLARD’S PRESIDENTIAL

ADMINISTRATION AT OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY, MANY OF THE BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES HAVE BEEN REFURBISHED, REMODELED OR REBUILT. s

• The Bessie Carter Hall, completed in 1966 and renovated in 2014-2015, is the residence hall for freshman women.

• The W. J. Blake Memorial Center, completed in 1968 and renovated in 2008 and 2009, contains the administrative offices of the university, student dining hall, meeting rooms and the presidential dining suite. Additional food venues and office suite renovations have been added in the lower level during the Pollard administration.

• The Natelka E. Burrell Hall, renovated in 1982, houses offices and classrooms for the Department of Communication,

was also refurbished during the Pollard administration.

• The Millet Activity Center (formerly Oakwood University Skating Rink) was completed in 1986 and renovated in 2010. It houses Student Activities offices, a TV room, and a game room, in addition to the skate floor and adjoining racquetball courts.

• The Oakwood Farms were rekindled during the Pollard administration, even with the addition of vineyards planted close to the school’s main entrance. The Oakwood Farms Market was constructed, with van service initiated to offer fresh farm produce, making wares available to a community that was once a food desert.

• The new Oakwood University Community Health Action Center, located on Sparkman Drive, was constructed to benefit and meet the health needs of students and members of the surrounding community.

• The C harles and Etta Dudley Center that houses the Office for Regional Conference Ministry in North America, was constructed on Oakwood University land designated by the Pollard administration, was completed and occupied in 2022. t

GALA MARKS 15 YEARS OF DR. LESLIE POLLARD’S TERM OF SERVICE

These photographs capture moments at the Oakwood University formal, farewell gala given for Dr. Leslie and Dr. Prudence Pollard. The event, held on May 9, 2025, at the Von Braun Center, commemorated their 15 years of service rendered to the institution as President and First Lady.

Dr. Pollard’s term was the longest of any presidential administration in the university’s history. To view live coverage, please use the code above as a link to the videos of events. t

NAD President G. Alexander Bryant greets the Pollards.

Southern Union President Ron Smith, left, and NAD Vice President Calvin Watkins, right, share experiences with President Pollard.

Alabama state Rep. Laura Hall makes a presentation.

ELDER YVONNE COLLINS, CFO OF THE REGIONAL CONFERENCE RETIREMENT PLAN, RETIRES

DECEMBER

31

BY DANA C. EDMOND

Elder Yvonne Collins has announced that she will transition from her role as chief financial officer of the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP) on December 31, 2025. Elder Collins’ retirement will bring 20 years of service in church finance to a close.

Elder Collins is a native of Jamaica, West Indies, the third of 10 children. She immigrated to the United States in 1976 to pursue higher education at Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana. She became a Seventh-day Adventist during her time in New Orleans and began serving the church on the local and conference levels in the Southwest Region, and she eventually became the conference Women’s Ministries director. For several years she worked in corporate America as an underwriter for Aetna Insurance and later, as a Certified Bond Specialist for St. Paul Travelers.

She received a call into denominational service in October 2005 to join the Lake Region Conference treasury staff. She served as associate treasurer and under-treasurer before being elected as the

first female leader to serve as treasurer/ chief financial officer for the Lake Region Conference.

Chief among the many things the Lord enabled her to accomplish during her tenure as the Lake Region treasurer was her overseeing the purchase of a beautiful and modern conference office in suburban Chicago.

Elder Collins served in Lake Region for 16 years. When Mrs. Phyllis Lee, former CFO for ORCM and the RCRP, retired in 2021, Elder Collins was discussing potential names for her successor with one of the ORCM/RCRP administrators. The administrator asked Elder Collins, “Why don’t you apply for the position?”

She did, and shortly thereafter the RCRP Board voted to extend a call to her to serve at RCRP. For the past five years, she has provided spirituality and nurturing to the office there, in addition to financial stewardship of the single largest asset in our regional conferences. In addition to her financial ministry, the Lord has given Elder Collins a call to preach the gospel as well. She has been invited to share the gospel of Jesus Christ across the United States and beyond.

IN ADDITION TO HER FINANCIAL MINISTRY, THE LORD HAS GIVEN ELDER COLLINS A CALL TO PREACH THE GOSPEL AS WELL. SHE HAS BEEN INVITED TO SHARE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST ACROSS THE UNITED STATES AND BEYOND. s

When the Regional Conferences and the Inter-American Division collaborated in their historic joint evangelistic campaign in 2024, Elder Collins was asked to go to her native Jamaica to participate in the series of evangelistic meetings held on that island. More than 200 baptisms resulted.

As Elder Collins steps aside at the end of this year, she anticipates spending more time attending to the family that she shares with her husband, William, their five adult children, 19 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. We are very grateful to Elder Collins for her ministry and wish her God’s blessings in this transition. t

Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), and publisher of Regional Voice magazine, produced this original report in tribute to the dedicated service of Elder Yvonne Collins. The Regional Voice magazine staff also extends sincere well-wishes.

Lake Region Conference office

MRS. MARGARET R. WEATHERS, NOT FAMOUS–BUT FAITHFUL

BY DANA C. EDMOND

Recently, I was given a book by former South Atlantic Conference president, Dr. Ralph Peay, titled Not Famous – But Faithful.

I thought about that title recently when my Executive Assistant, Mrs. Margaret R. Weathers retired after fulfilling a denominational career of stellar and dedicated service. In my mind, she represents a number of people who make our church work because of their work. However, the average church member does not know who these people are. Behind the people with the public positions like mine that people see are faithful people like Mrs. Weathers, who the average church member never sees. Yet the work of people like me is made possible by people like Mrs. Weathers. They are not famous, but they are faithful.

t BEHIND THE PEOPLE WITH THE PUBLIC POSITIONS LIKE MINE THAT PEOPLE SEE ARE FAITHFUL PEOPLE LIKE MRS. WEATHERS, WHO THE AVERAGE CHURCH MEMBER NEVER SEES s

in Memphis, but she and her husband finally agreed to move to Nashville for her to become my administrative assistant.

She did that work for nearly 10 years. The denomination was transitioning at that time to an electronic membership system known as E-Adventist. Mrs. Weathers had to train the 150 church clerks in our conference and their teams in E-Adventist, while learning the system herself. The job was so labor-intensive that some conferences were hiring experts whose sole responsibility was installing E-Adventist and training church clerks.

Mrs. Weathers managed that process while maintaining her role as administrative assistant, as well as serving as de facto Human Resource (HR) Director. Mrs. Weathers did the work of three people by herself, and she handled all three responsibilities well.

Mrs. Weathers began her denominational career nearly 25 years ago in the South Central Conference as my administrative assistant. At that time, I was serving as the conference executive secretary.

The person who was serving as the administrative assistant at that time had to leave due to some health challenges. I had previously extended several invitations to Mrs. Weathers to come and join me in work at the South Central Conference office. I had been the pastor at her church in Memphis, Tennessee. She had served faithfully alongside her husband as a Pathfinder leader and on the church clerk staff.

Several years prior to my arrival as her pastor at the Memphis Breath of Life SDA Church, she had become a Seventh-day Adventist. Because of the Lord’s use of her witness, her husband, Wendell, and several of her sisters became Adventists. I knew her to be faithful and conscientious, just the kind of person needed in my office. It took several tries to get her to leave her four children, grandchildren, and her other deep roots

In 2009, the South Central Conference decided to hire its first HR director. Mrs. Weathers was elected to serve in that role. It was quite challenging to build a department from the ground up but Mrs. Weathers served with her characteristic fidelity until her retirement. Then she returned to her native Mississippi. She and her husband plunged into the work of the Shiloh Church in Greenwood, Mississippi, where he served as elder and she served as treasurer and Pathfinder leader. Sadly, her husband’s health began to sharply deteriorate, and Mrs. Weathers became his primary caregiver.

That did not prevent her from responding to another call. An opening for an executive assistant developed in my office. I very desperately needed just the right person. Once again, I placed a call to Mrs. Weathers despite the fact that I knew her circumstances were very different this time.

She had retired. Her husband was in failing health, and she was his caregiver. I am not sure I expected her to say “Yes” and move to Huntsville; I was sure that I desperately needed her to

say “Yes.” Thankfully, she did.

She and her beloved husband, whom she unfailingly referred to as “Honey,” relocated to Huntsville. By this time, her husband had lost his sight. I never knew how she was able to take care of him and my office, but she did.

Shortly after moving to Huntsville, her husband, Mr. Wendell Weathers, passed away. Mrs. Weathers handled the loss of her husband of approximately 45 years with a quiet dignity and grace of one, in the words of that familiar song, whose soul was “anchored in the Lord.”

She announced her plan to retire for good this year. Just prior to retirement, Mrs. Weathers was hit with the sudden and devastating loss of her oldest child, Tumeka (my godchild), due to a cardiac issue that no one knew she had. Once

again, Mrs. Weathers responded with dignity, grace and trust in God. I had known for years of her quiet strength, but her strength in this season of loss surprised even me.

Her spirituality and her unfailing professionalism—always on time; always on task; always well-dressed, will be greatly missed in our office. And I will miss these traits most of all. In one capacity or another, we worked together for nearly 41 years.

All of us in our office wish her the best in her well-deserved retirement. And we are all indebted to her for her service.

She was not famous, but she was very faithful. t

Dana C. Edmond, Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, (ORCM), and publisher of Regional Voice magazine, produced this original report in tribute to the dedicated service of Mrs. Margaret R. Weathers. She takes with her the appreciation of The Regional Voice magazine staff, as well.

South Central Conference office

The Charles and Etta Dudley Center

FROM OA KWOOD TO ORCM

Two Oakwood University students are bringing their talents to the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM) and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP) this summer, combining their academic pursuits with hands-on ministry experience

David Still, a junior majoring in finance with a minor in accounting, is stepping into the financial operations of both organizations. “I believe this internship will help me in my future plans and career, because this internship will be able to lay a foundation for my career in finance and accounting,” Still shared. Having previously completed a remote internship, he’s eager for his first in-person professional experience.

SUMMER BEGIN

INTERNSHIPS

BY GERSON PANCORBO

For Still, the opportunity goes beyond numbers on a spreadsheet. “One of the things I am most excited about as I start my internship is the knowledge I will be able to receive and the various learning experiences, I will be able to have,” he explained. His goal is to improve his understanding of accounting in a real-world environment while learning about workplace interactions. Working with both ORCM and RCRP will give him exposure to different aspects of office financial management, from operational budgets to retirement planning systems that serve ministers across regional conferences.

Meanwhile, Ismael Ben Ubiera, an interior designer from the Dominican Republic, is currently majoring in Graphic Design with a minor in TV and Video Production. He brings an international perspective to ORCM’s communications team. “This internship is a great opportunity for me to do what I love while also serving the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” Ubiera said. “Being part of ORCM allows me to use my creative skills with a purpose.”

Ubiera hopes to grow specifically in graphic design for print, learning how to translate organizational values and branding into visual materials. “I’m most excited about being part of a creative team where I can learn, grow, and contribute while doing what I love: design,” he noted. “I am also looking forward to seeing how my work can make a real impact through ministry.”

The timing of these internships couldn’t be better, as both

organizations continue to develop their services for regional conferences. Still’s financial expertise will support important administrative functions, while Ubiera’s creative skills will help communicate ORCM’s mission and RCRP’s programs to a broader audience. Their fresh perspectives and academic training bring new energy to these ministries.

For both students, these internships offer practical ministry experience that classroom learning alone cannot provide. David Still will work alongside profession-

als managing real budgets and financial systems, while Ismael Ben Ubiera will see his designs come to life in materials that reach churches and members across the nine regional conferences.

The partnership between the Office for Regional Conference Ministries, the Regional Conference Retirement Plan, and Oakwood University continues to provide valuable pathways for students to gain practical experience while contributing to the mission of the church. As these two students demonstrate, the future of Ad-

ventist ministry looks bright when young professionals can combine their career aspirations with building God’s kingdom. t

is the Communications Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. He conducted live coverage to complete this report and to photograph this event.

Gerson Pancorbo

David Still, seated, and Ismael Ben Ubiera.

GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION 62

IS SET FOR JULY 3 TO 12, 2025

In 2015, more than 65,000 Seventh-day Adventists gathered for the 60th General Conference Session in San Antonio, Texas. This was a stark contrast to the empty seats and quiet halls of the 61st General Conference Session in St. Louis, Missouri, in June 2022. The twice-postponed GC Session-turned-hybrid event was a shadow of what it had been in the past. Throughout business meetings, worship services, and special presentations, delegate seats sat empty, conference rooms were quiet, and exhibition halls went unused.

Executive Committee Meets

The General Conference Executive Committee met on August 9, 2022. The main agenda item was to discuss and determine the direction of the 62nd General Conference Session set to be held in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2025.

In consultation with division and attached field officers, the Executive Committee adopted a four-part plan that will see the General Conference Session continue as a 10-day event.

The motion, voted and accepted during the Executive Committee, reads as follows.

Due to the General Conference Executive Committee action taken on March 19, 2020, (GCC 20-7) the General Conference administration, in consultation with division and attached field officers, reviewed the configuration of the postponed 2020 General Conference Session when it convened in 2022, and is making the following recommendations regarding the 2025 General Conference Session.

To adopt the following plans for the 2025 General Conference Session:

1. That the initial dates of July 3-12, 2025, be kept for the 2025 General Conference Session to take place in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

2. That the 2025 General Conference Session be held as an on-site event. A hybrid

event will only be considered if there are world conditions such as a global public health issue that would preclude an onsite event.

3. That a limited number of special guests be invited to the 2025 General Conference Session.

4. That both the exhibits/booths and ancillary meetings be reintroduced to the 2025 General Conference Session.

Hensley Moorooven, General Conference undersecretary, explains that the four items pertaining to the 2025 General Conference Session “were based on information gleaned from several debriefing sessions and backed by data collected from the survey administered to the General Conference Session delegates who served in 2022.” Moorooven continued, “We want our delegates to know that they were heard.”

According to the survey in which 58% of delegates responded, the most significant factor which prevented their attendance at business sessions was the

overcrowded schedule during GC Session 2022. As the business sessions are a necessary component of GC Session, this had to be addressed in the planning process.

The second major factor preventing attendance at business sessions was the experience of jet lag many of our international delegates experienced. Returning to the ten-day session event will allow them time to adjust to local time zones and a more reasonable schedule. These changes will enable the delegates to better focus on the business sessions while also enjoying the event’s social, spiritual, and service aspects.

Impact on Delegates and Members

Moving forward with an in-person event allows the exhibition hall to be brought back for delegates, their families, and visitors to enjoy. Exhibit hall visitors will enjoy learning more about their favorite ministries and organizations while discovering new resources and information from around the world.

Find the complete General Conference Agenda here: https://www.gcsession.org/wp-content/ uploads/2025/05/25GCS-Agenda.pdf

meeting experience of sessions past. Moorooven commented, “GC Session is a place to conduct the church’s business, and it is also a huge camp meeting. The ancillary meetings give us this exquisite balance between the business meetings and the camp meeting experience.”

These ancillary meetings include training sessions, musical performances, and special programs hosted by ministries providing specific programming to women, children, families, and more. Combined with the prayer room and worship programs, these ancillary meetings add a necessary spiritual aspect to the otherwise business-focused gathering.

As a ten-day event, members will have many opportunities to attend business sessions, special ancillary programming, and worship services throughout the weeks and two weekends at The Dome at America’s Center. Members are encouraged to make plans to attend by saving the dates: July 3-12, 2025. t

With the exhibition hall and ancillary meetings reintroduced, attendees will have the added benefit of the camp

This official report on the planning of meetings and activities for the forthcoming 62nd General Conference Session of was produced for global readership by the Adventist News Network.

REACHING NEW GENERATIONS: NEW AVENUES, SAME MISSION

BY GERSON PANCORBO

The Communications Department of the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM) knows that tomorrow’s church depends on how we connect with young people today. Working alongside the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP), and drawing from the rich heritage of our regional churches, we’re bringing stories of faith and courage to life in ways that resonate with today’s youth.

t OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE REGIONAL CONFERENCE RETIREMENT PLAN ENABLES US TO HONOR THOSE WHO PAVED THE WAY, WHILE EQUIPPING YOUNG PEOPLE TO CARRY THE TORCH FORWARD.

Meeting Young People Where They Are

Let’s face it: young people don’t engage with faith the same way their grandparents did. While traditional methods still have value, we need fresh approaches. Visual media, compelling books, and hands-on experiences speak their language. That’s why our Communications team has launched SDA Heroes. We’re sharing stories of Adventist pioneers who fought for

justice, broke down barriers, and transformed communities.

Six Heroes Worth Knowing In 1944, Irene Morgan refused to move to the back of a bus, 11 years before Rosa Parks took the same action. Her case went to the Supreme Court and helped dismantle segregation on interstate buses. Talk about courage making history.

Charles E. Dudley didn’t just preach; he built. As a church leader in the South, he established congregations and schools while fighting for equal treatment. His work proved that advocacy and compassion could create lasting change.

Lucy Byard’s story breaks hearts and opens minds. When a Seventh-day Adventist hospital turned her away because of her race, her death sparked outrage. And from that tragedy came Regional Conferences, ensuring dignity and representation for all believers.

Despite facing constant prejudice, Charles M. Kinny founded

Black Adventism. He planted churches and created spaces where Black Adventists could worship freely and fully. His determination built a more inclusive church.

Walter Arties understood music’s power to heal and unite. Through founding the “Breath of Life” television program, he reached thousands with messages of hope, using melody to bridge divides between communities.

Anna Knight refused to let barriers define her. She became a teacher, nurse, and missionary who even served in India. Her life proved that when you combine determination with compassion, nothing is impossible.

Making History Come Alive

Stories alone aren’t enough—presentation matters. The ORCM Communi-

cations team created an illustrated book that brings these heroes to life visually. We’ve produced animated videos to capture attention on screens where young people already spend time. At events such as the General Conference or United Youth Congress, our booth features conversation-starting materials: stickers, shirts, and interactive displays.

Building Tomorrow’s Legacy

Our partnership with the RCRP enables us to honor those who paved the way, while equipping young people to carry the torch forward. These heroes’ stories prove that faith, courage, and service aren’t museum pieces, but blueprints for action.

Psalm 145:4 reminds us: “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts” (NLT).

These stories matter because they show what’s possible. When young people learn about Irene Morgan’s bus ride or Anna Knight’s journey to India, they don’t just hear history. They see their own potential. Every generation needs its heroes. By sharing these stories in fresh ways, our Communications Department is helping today’s youth discover that they’re already part of something bigger. The adventure continues, and they’re writing the next chapter. t

Gerson Pancorbo is the Communications Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. This cover age announces the new SDA Heroes series that can be found at the ORCM Booth at the GC 2025 Session, and later, at the United Youth Congress.

Irene Morgan

Charles E. Dudley Lucy Byard

Charles M. Kinny Walter Arties Anna Knight

PATHWAY TO HEALTH OFFERS A RANGE OF FREE MEDICAL SERVICES ACROSS AMERICA

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40 NIV).

Pathway to Health is a non-profit, humanitarian, organization dedicated to spreading the love inspired by the example of Christ to be of service to others through our free clinics.  With the help and commitment of our volunteers, donors, partners, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we have been able to share the gift of  physical, mental, and spiritual health to tens of thousands of people and are committed to continue in the service of others. Our multi-specialty clinics offer medical, surgical, dental, eye care, radiology and other medical and non-medical services.

Our Organization

As a cornerstone of our foundation, we as Seventh-day Adventists believe in service to those in need and a triad of health, including physical, mental, and spiritual health and that if one is missing, the individual’s entire health is affected.

Why Free Mobile Clinics?

Studies in the last two years show approximately 1 in 5 Americans are not covered by medical insurance. This includes children and adults under age 65.  People without medical insurance typically skip doctor visits until a health condition becomes serious.  Many times, when they do access health services, they are often burdened with large medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses.

Let’s add to the conversation the ongoing needs for dental and eye care.

Pathway to Health exists to serve the physical needs of these underserved by providing free mobile clinics offering medical, surgical, dental, eye care and other services. Pathway to Health is able to offer these clinics by bringing together health care professionals and support

staff who volunteer their services for a 3to 4-day event.

Pathway to Health has already served:

• Beckley, West Virginia

• Fort Worth, Texas

• Indianapolis, Indiana

• Los Angeles, California

• Phoenix, Arizona

• San Antonio, Texas

• Spokane, Washington

• St. Louis, Missouri

How Do We Do It?

Pathway to Health is able to offer these clinics by bringing together volunteers from world-wide. Health care professionals, support staff, church members, people from all backgrounds volunteer their time.

We have received donations of equipment over the last years, but there are always costs to hold these clinics.

#Team Pathway

Be Part of Our Team! We are looking for teams to donate monthly. Go to the Pathway website to complete the applications.

How Can YOU Fit In?

TEAMS of donors! A team can be:

• a church

• a group of co-workers

• a circle of friends

• an academy

• a partner group

• an individual

• a Bible study group

• a book club

And a team can be as many people as you want.

The Gift of Health

Volunteer! Donate. Partner or Sponsor. Visit the website to learn more.

Description of General Volunteer Positions

General volunteer positions are varied and include the following:

1. Active Manual Relaxation / Hydrotherapy: no previous experience required to help in this department doing room change over, department check-in, and other possibilities.

tPATHWAY TO HEALTH IS ABLE TO OFFER THESE CLINICS BY BRINGING TOGETHER VOLUNTEERS FROM WORLD-WIDE. HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS, SUPPORT STAFF, CHURCH MEMBERS, PEOPLE FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS VOLUNTEER THEIR TIME.

2. Attorney / Paralegal: Professionals and those interested in helping as legal department host/hostess. (Attorney, Paralegal, Social Worker, Financial Advisor, Accountant)

3. Beautician / Barber Services: Previous experience in cutting hair, doing pedicures, also, those interested in helping as host/ hostess for the department.

4. Central Supply: Organize supplies and help distribute to departments – organizational skills is a plus.

5. Communication/Audio-Visual: Previous experience requested. (General Communication, Videography, Photography, Story Gathering, Social Media, Audio/Visual, Writing)

6. Children’s Services: Help with children’s programs and activities for children of volunteers and/or patients.

7. Clothing Distribution: Organize and help distribute clothing and supplies.

8. Data Entry /Medical Records: Detail oriented, ability to type, sit for extended periods.

9. Decorations: Make the arrangements for borrowing plants from a local vendor; arrange the plants around the venue in registration, clinic and staging areas where they will not be in the way of the work. Make sure all the tables being used have the appropriate covering.

10. Event Services: Help keep the departments safe and secure.

11. Exit Management: Verify that all chart paperwork is collected and patients know where to pick up their glasses and any lab work post event. Invitations to various church programs being held post event.

12. Food Services: Enjoys food preparation and service. Willingness to work with a team. Very dependable. Coordinate meal times.

13. Information Technology: Good working knowledge of technology, network, WiFi, general computer and device trouble shooting and resolution.

14. Interpretive Services: Ability to translate foreign languages with a working knowledge of medical terminology. Work closely with Patient Assistance and Transport.

15. Lifestyle: Background in health coaching, nutrition, exercise, general health.

16. Patient Assistance and Transport: Enjoys one on one interactions with people and making a difference in their life. Lots of walking, escort patients from point to point.

17. Patient Registration: Works individually with patients to help them fill in their registration forms, this includes web based or paper.

18. Spiritual Care: Experience in literature evangelism, Bible work, public evangelism and/or personal witnessing. This department works with all other departments in fulfilling our mission of Whole Health as taught by Christ in the Bible – mind, body, soul.

19. Transportation: Load and unload trailers, operate fork lifts and properly dispose of waste.

20. Venue Services: General venue help, many varied opportunities here.

21. Volunteer Services: Help volunteers complete onsite check-in process, verify paperwork signed and assist with pickup of polo shirts. t

MUST BE AVAILABLE THE DAY BEFORE AND FIRST DAY OF EVENT TO VOLUNTEER IN THIS AREA

To Our Readers – All of the information given here can be found on the Pathway to Health website, with videos as well. Please check out this site to learn more about how you can help and participate in these great events.

Pastor Trevor H. C. Baker A Faithful Shepherd

and youth choir festivals. He also established the Conference Youth Advisory, initiated Bible conferences for high school students attending non-Adventist schools, and created the Northeastern Conference Basketball Commission—each effort designed to strengthen the spiritual and social development of the Conference’s youth.

In 1991, Pastor Baker was elected Executive Secretary, and over the next twelve years, he brought structure, accountability, and innovation to the administrative life of the Conference. His accomplishments included the development of a policy manual for field employees, the introduction of an evaluation system for pastors and congregations, and the implementation of processes to promote greater operational accountability.

With deep sorrow and abiding hope in the resurrection, the Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists regrettably announces the passing of Pastor Trevor H.C. Baker, a faithful shepherd, visionary leader, and beloved servant of God, who fell asleep in Jesus and now rests from his labor.

Born on the beautiful island of Barbados, West Indies, Pastor Baker came to the United States as a young man where his spiritual journey was profoundly shaped through his early involvement with the Bethel Seventh-day Adventist Church in Brooklyn, New York. He quickly became a dynamic youth leader whose influence helped ignite a spirit of growth and vitality among the church’s youth.

Answering the call to ministry, Pastor Baker prepared for service at Oakwood College (now University), graduating in 1967. He went on to earn a Master of Divinity in Applied Theology from Andrews University Theological Seminary in 1969. In recognition of his distinguished service, he was later awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity by the Canadian International Chaplains Association International University and Seminary in 2014.

Pastor Baker began his ministerial career in the Northeastern Conference, pastoring the Mount Carmel and Corona Seventh-day Adventist Churches. In 1976, he was elected Youth Ministries Director, a position in which he served for fifteen transformational years. During that time, he launched what would become lasting institutions in youth ministry, including the Bible Bowl Ministry, the Youth and Pathfinder Awards Program, the Youth Olympics, drama festivals, youth federations,

In March 2002, at a pivotal moment in the life of the Conference, Pastor Baker was called to serve as President, a role he fulfilled with prayerful conviction and pastoral sensitivity until June 2012. Under his leadership, the Conference experienced steady growth and renewed spiritual focus.

He emphasized spiritual leadership, promoted openness and integrity in administration, and instituted annual soul-winning and tithe goals for churches. He launched the Pastoral Leadership Recognition and Award ceremony, implemented ministerial districting, encouraged the strategic merging of smaller congregations, and led the administration in retiring two major bonds, thereby relieving the Conference of significant financial encumbrances. During his presidency, the membership of the Northeastern Conference surpassed 50,000, a witness to his vision and commitment to evangelism.

Following his presidency, Pastor Baker returned to his first love—local church ministry—as pastor of the South Ozone Park SDA Church, a community he affectionately described as “the loving little white church by the side of the road… a place where warmth and love spill out to everyone.” He retired from formal ministry on December 31, 2020 bringing to a close a distinguished ministerial career spanning more than five decades.

Upon retirement, Baker expressed gratitude for the many individuals who had “added value” to his life and supported him during moments of challenge and triumph. In his own words:

“I could never have asked for a more pleasurable ending to my ministry… Life will be different, but I celebrate the change and embrace the leisurely pace. I will miss being a part of the team and a part of this Conference where I spent most of my life.”

and a proud grandfather to Jaydalyn. Pastor Baker was more than a gifted administrator or inspiring preacher, he was, in every sense, the quintessential churchman – a spiritual father, a builder of people, a steward of the church’s mission, a loyal friend and above all, a man of God. His impact is etched into the very fabric of this Conference and into the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. He led with grace and conviction, served with humility and purpose, and loved without reservation. His ministry shaped the lives of generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire long after his voice is silent.

We give thanks for the life and labor of Pastor Trevor H.C. Baker, and we await with blessed assurance the day when, at the trumpet sound, the faithful shall rise to meet their Lord.

Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be announced in the coming days.

We encourage the church family to uplift Sister Eunice, the Baker family, and all who mourn, in fervent prayer. t

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.”

—Psalm 116:15

Pastor Baker is survived by his devoted wife, Sister Eunice P. Senior-Baker, who also served the Northeastern Conference in numerous capacities. He was a loving father to their son, Joel,

“I COULD NEVER HAVE ASKED FOR A MORE PLEASURABLE ENDING TO MY MINISTRY... LIFE WILL BE DIFFERENT, BUT I CELEBRATE THE CHANGE AND EMBRACE THE LEISURELY PACE. I WILL MISS BEING A PART OF THE TEAM AND A PART OF THIS CONFERENCE WHERE I SPENT MOST OF MY LIFE.”

Isaac Robinson Palmer A Life Well Lived

• Director, State of Delaware Division of Family ServicesWilmington, Del.

• Director, Lucas County Job and Family Services - Toledo, Ohio

Known for his ability to turn around troubled agencies, Isaac developed a reputation for thinking outside the box and pushing for improvements—even when his “critiques” weren’t always welcomed by friends and family.

Isaac Palmer was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on January 7, 1944, the youngest child of Luther and Willsie Palmer. A skilled brick mason, Luther passed his trade down to his sons and to many others. Isaac quickly outpaced his older brothers, Bobby and Shelton, in both bricklaying and golf. His sister Bettye served as a second mother to him, particularly guiding him in cooking as he learned the family recipes.

Isaac followed Shelton from their home in Oberlin, Ohio, to Oakwood Academy, where graduated as Valedictorian of the Class of 1962. The close-knit bonds formed among his 42 classmates stood the test of time, marked by regular reunions. Isaac began college at Oakwood College, embarking on what became a colorful academic journey. During his second stint at Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University), he met Jacquelyn Odette Wright. Their relationship proved transformative. With her encouragement, he switched majors from psychology to business administration. They married in 1969 at Jackie’s childhood church, Dale Wright Memorial SDA Church in Germantown, Ohio. Together, they reared three remarkable children: Eleanor Jeanine, Isaac Robinson Jr., and Luther Robert III.

He later earned a Master of Business Administration from Andrews University, paving the way for a fulfilling and influential professional life, including roles such as:

• Manager, Book & Bible House, South Central Conference of SDAs - Nashville, Tenn.

• Treasurer, Lake Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists - Chicago, Ill.

• Vice President, Finance, Oakwood College (now University)

- Huntsville, Ala.

• Finance Director, Montgomery County Community Human Services - Dayton, Ohio

• Director, Montgomery County Children Services BoardDayton, Ohio

• Deputy Director, State of Ohio Department of Human Services - Columbus, Ohio

Isaac was deeply involved in “the work,” even when not formally employed by Adventist institutions. At Dale Wright Memorial SDA Church, he served as Elder, First Elder, and finally Elder Emeritus. He supported the church through strategic planning, renovations, and leadership transitions. His service extended to the Allegheny West Conference Executive Committee and the Board of the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. In retirement, he wrote and spoke extensively on finances and racial disparities in the Adventist Church.

A natural prankster, Isaac’s sense of humor was legendary. He shared this mischievous spirit with his children, often exasper-

KNOWN FOR HIS ABILITY TO TURN AROUND TROUBLED AGENCIES, ISAAC DEVELOPED A REPUTATION FOR THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX AND PUSHING FOR IMPROVEMENTS—EVEN WHEN HIS “CRITIQUES” WEREN’T ALWAYS WELCOMED BY FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

ating Jackie, who joked she was “held captive by a band of clowns.” One of his favorite pranks involved sneaking home before Jackie and pretending never to have left—a trick he repeated with great delight.

His joy multiplied with the arrival of grandchildren. Summers brought “Granny Camp,” a two-week tradition where Isaac cooked, gardened, and taught the grandchildren to ride bikes. His bond with his grandchildren — including Nalah, Mary, Zac, Will, Evelyn, Vivian, and honorary grandson Eddy—was deeply cherished. Later, when Shelli married Brian and welcomed Kennedy into the family, Isaac was moved to tears. Isaac boasted about his family’s accomplishments to anyone who would listen and jokingly conferred their degrees upon himself. Through them, he claimed a JD, two MBAs, a PhD, and mastery in

music and sports.

He and Jackie created homes that were centers of community and hospitality.

With Isaac’s charisma and Jackie’s grace, their Sabbath dinners overflowed with food, song, and spirited debate. Isaac became famous for his “Heavenly Burgers,” a culinary creation he never wrote down —but which many swore tasted divine.

Isaac’s heart held an extraordinary capacity for love—for God, family, the Dale Wright Memorial Church, the Adventist community, public service, coin collecting, golf, watermelon, Excel spreadsheets, Barack Obama, Westerns, See’s candy, and much more. But his deepest love was reserved for Jackie. For 56 years, she was his partner, anchor, and fiercest advocate. Through every high and low, through every hospital and every home, she remained his constant—even when his antics tried her patience. He never

could have imagined, all those years ago, how essential she would become. But God knew.

Isaac Palmer drew his last breath on May 16, 2025. His final wish was simple and profound: “Promise me I will see you all again.” t

We at Regional Voice magazine are saddened to run final tributes to a brother and sister in the pages of this issue. We thank the family of Mr. Isaac Robinson Palmer for this beautiful tribute to a powerful life of service to God and humanity. The tribute to his sister, Mrs. Bettye Palmer Willis, follows this one. We also thank Ms. Debbe Millet for preparing these words to a beloved family man and friend for publication.

Mrs. Bettye Palmer Willis

A Life Filled with Faith, Love, Ministry and Entreprise

1933 – 2025

Born on February 2, 1933, in Jacksonville, Florida, Bettye LaRue Palmer Willis entered the world in her grandparents’ home, delivered into the hands of her grandmother, Mary Amelia Palmer. From her very first breath, she was wrapped in family—surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends whose love would illuminate her journey, like Jesus, the Light of the World. She was shaped by faith and education, attending Adventist schools and graduating from Oberlin Technical Institute after her time at Oakwood Academy. It was in Oberlin, Ohio, where she married the love of her life, Robert Leslie Willis, on September 2, 1951. Together, they would walk hand in hand through seasons of ministry, parenthood, and purpose. She was the devoted mother of Denise, Donna, Leslie, and Lizette—rearing them with patience, wisdom, and unwavering love.

For years, Bettye dedicated herself as a stay-at-home mother, until Leslie and Lizette were off to school. Then, with grace and quiet brilliance, she began a professional life that reflected her integrity and intellect. From her first role as an administrative assistant at Grove Park Elementary School in Baltimore, to earning top-level national security clearance at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Bettye rose—by and by, always rising.

Each pastoral assignment opened new doors. In Memphis, Tennessee, she worked with the EEOC; in Washington, DC, [she worked] at the Dupont Park SDA Church, [and then] she became a senior administrative assistant in the U.S. Department of Education. She later served in federal roles in Atlanta, Georgia,

and Chicago, Illinois, and ultimately in Huntsville, Alabama, at NASA—where the sky, quite literally, was not the limit. Music was embodied in her musical ministry participation at the First SDA Church.

Through it all, love lifted her—love of God, family, and community. She poured that love into her home, her hospitality, her Sabbath dinners, her cooking, her humor, and her fascination with the latest gadgets. She never stopped growing, learning, and giving. Her life was full of laughter and light, music and meaning.

On February 24, 2025, Bettye closed her eyes for the last time, surrounded by her daughters—each one holding her with their presence or through the miracle of technology. And though her body rests, her legacy marches on. As the hymn says, “there is power in the blood,” and her life was powered by faith — deep, abiding, and enduring.

Her last words, spoken over and over, were from Psalm 91:

“For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot. Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation” (verses 11 – 16 NKJV).

To those she loved, she would say: “Just keep living.” And to all of us, she would gently remind: “Be ready for that great getting-up morning.” Because in a twinkling of an eye, we shall be changed—and Bettye believed that with her whole heart. t

We at Regional Voice magazine offer sincere thanks to the family of Mrs. Bettye Palmer Willis for this heartfelt tribute to her faith-filled life. We also thank Ms. Debbe Millet for preparing these words of love for publication.

Pastor Kenneth Wade Elliott

broadcasts that led countless souls to Christ. His voice brought comfort, correction and conviction – through the airwaves and to every pulpit he graced.

Dedicated Pastor, Mentor and Friend

Pastor Elliott was awarded the Key to the City of New Orleans by Mayor Ray Nagin, in recognition of his civic and spiritual impact. After Hurricane Katrina, Kenneth and his beloved mother walked the streets of New Orleans, rebuilding fences and restoring dignity to the church family and their neighbors, one family at a time.

A Time to Serve with Joy

A Time to be Born

On August 23, 1957, Kenneth Wade Elliott was born to Clara Bess and William Elliott Sr., in Lexington Kentucky. From his earliest days, Kenneth displayed a tender heart for the Lord. He professed his faith in Jesus Christ – an unshakable faith that guided him through every chapter of his life.

A Time to Grow and Dream

A gifted athlete and brilliant thinker, Kenneth pursued higher education at Eastern Kentucky University and later Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. Though his natural athleticism opened doors to a professional basketball career, his heart was fixed on a deeper calling. In 1989, Kenneth surrendered his successful businesses and fully dedicated his life to full-time ministry.

In 1990, he married his life partner, Monique, beginning a union that spanned 34 years. Their marriage became a covenant of purpose and ministry. This union was blessed with two amazing daughters. Together they raised their girls, Victoria and Courtney, in a home that radiated joy, laughter, wisdom and the presence of God.

A Time to Build and Shepherd

Pastor Elliott’s ministry spanned three major territories of the Seventh-day Adventist Church: the Pacific Northwest Conference; the Southwest Region Conference, and finally he served in the Lake Region Conference as Ministerial Director in Chicago, Illinois.

Wherever he was assigned, Pastor Elliott left a visible and lasting mark. He built churches, schools, campgrounds and communities of faith. In Conroe, Texas, he launched several radio

Kenneth’s ministry encompassed more than preaching – it was feeding, building, fixing, encouraging, and embracing. A masterful chef, his signature pies and soul-warming breakfasts were famous throughout his churches. He often used food as a ministry tool, serving the elderly; comforting the weary, and even ensuring that church board meetings began joyfully, were on time, and were highly productive.

He was a man who wore many hats – each with excellence and humility:

• Chaplain for the New Orleans Police Department and Hospice Care

• Master Guide for SDA Pathfinders

• Basketball coach, mentor and role model for youth

• Sports Ambassador to the Central African Empire • Mechanic Extraordinaire, ensuring that no one in his districts drove an unrepaired car

Pastor Elliott was a solution-bearer and joy-bringer who never met a stranger. His bright and invigorating smile was contagious and healing. He served with an open heart and with open hands, uplifting all who crossed his path.

A Time to Honor

Of all the Ten Commandments, one that Kenneth honored deeply was “Honor thy father and thy mother,” (Exodus 20:12 KJV). He lived this out in extraordinary ways, especially in his care for his beloved mother, Clara Bess. For years he lovingly cared for her day and night, tirelessly without complaint. When her earthly journey ended, Kenneth was by her bedside, gently holding her hand, witnessing her final breath on earth. It was a divine moment that crushed his heart, yet reaffirmed his lifelong devotion to his faith.

A Time to Leave a Legacy

Pastor Elliott’s earthly life has ended, but the legacy of his love and purpose continues through those he poured into with his time, wisdom and grace.

He is survived by his children Derek Combs (Adele), and

Adrian Fisher, all of Lexington, Kentucky; Victoria Keeling and Courtney Elliott, both of Dallas, Texas.

He was the proud grandfather of 15 grandchildren.

Kenneth is remembered by his siblings, Vincent Elliott and Mark Elliott, both of Bowling Green, Kentucky; David Williams of North Carolina, and Mike Wilson of Lexington, Kentucky.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Clara Bess and William Elliott Sr.; and by siblings William Elliott Jr.; Donna Jean Barnes and Teresa Barnes.

Cherished friends and mentors left to honor his memory are:

• Mentor, Pastor Emerson Miller; Pastor and friend, Durandel Ford; Mentor, Pastor EuGene Lewis.

• Close friends Jeff Williams; Garrett Wilson; Richard Fuller and George Blackmon, “Gino.”

• Yvonne Collins and Shalitris Medlock, a beloved sister in Christ, friend to Kenneth and Monique for more than 34 years, and Godmother to their daughters.

• He also leaves behind a multitude of family members, cherished friends and members of the Body of Christ whom he faithfully pastored, mentored and cared for with great love.

The Final Benediction and A Time to

Live Again

On May 1, 2025, Pastor Keith Wade Elliott completed his mission on earth and finished his course. He kept the faith. Let us rejoice in the extraordinary life and eternal reward of this man of valor. Remember the verses found in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 to 18.

Memorial Gifts

In honor of Pastor Elliott’s lifelong passion for Christian Education, contributions may be sent in support of scholarships for his grandchildren to treasurer@swaja.org t

t HE SERVED WITH AN OPEN HEART AND WITH OPEN HANDS, UPLIFTING ALL WHO CROSSED HIS PATH. s

Dr. Ifeoma Ijunanya Kwesi

Trailblazer, Pioneer, and Legend

At her birth on September 18, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas, Dr. Frank and Mrs. Ruth Hale named their daughter Ruth Hale. However, along her life’s journey she made a name change which resonates with her embracing her African heritage and her commitment to social justice and freedom of African people.

Dr. Ifeoma Ijunanya Kwesi was the first full-time female faculty member in the School of Religion at Oakwood University. She was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, cousin, grandmother, great-grandmother, pastor, author, professor, mentor, and friend.

If there is one word that would best describe Ifeoma, it would be feisty! Though small in stature, she was a powerhouse in all that she did, and her accomplishments are to be celebrated. Trailblazer, pioneer, and legend are words that were often associated with her; she was all of those things and more. Her love for the Lord coupled with her love for her family was unmatched. She was a mother to all and a stranger to none.

Throughout her career Kwesi served the Seventh-day Adventist Church in various capacities including pastor, hospital chaplain, and writer for Message Magazine. For more than 20 years, Kwesi played a role in preparing young men and women to serve as pastors, chaplains, and leaders, serving with distinction as an associate professor of Christian Formation and African American Studies in the School of Theology at Oakwood University.

Ifeoma was a lover of books, art, and history, and was able to speak intelligently on a myriad of topics. Her humble nature and her love for people allowed her to be a mentor, a confidant, and a place of refuge for countless individuals who will revere

IF THERE IS ONE WORD THAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE IFEOMA, IT WOULD BE FEISTY! s

her forever. Though she is no longer with us, the love and light she shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She peacefully went to sleep in Jesus on March 12, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama. Dr. Kwesi is survived by a host of family, friends, and former students, and she will truly be missed. She would want us all to remember the words of the classic song, “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” and to remember the promises found in Romans 8:18-39. t

Special Thanks to the Hale family from Regional Voice magazine for sharing this tribute to the life of Dr. Ifeoma Ijunanya Kwesi, and to Ms. Debbe Millet for preparing these words for publication. Dr. Kwesi led an inspiring life, dedicated to God, her family, her profession and to global contributions she made to humanity.

Harry W. Swinton Sr.

Devoted to God and Family, with Strong Work

Harry W. Swinton Sr., a man of unwavering devotion as a husband, father, leader, and servant of God, was born December 1, 1932 in Sumter, South Carolina, to Richard and Celia Swinton. He was the fifth of nine children. Even in his youth, he displayed an exceptional work ethic, undertaking the management of a housing complex as a teenager and mastering the now-rare art of hand floor polishing. He also learned to cook from his mother.

Harry’s deep love for music was expressed through his talent as a trombonist in the Lincoln High School Band, playing the piano, and as a competitive tenor in the Lincoln High School Glee Club.

Upon graduating from Lincoln High School in 1955, Harry received a vocal scholarship to Oakwood College (now Oakwood University), where he sang with the choirs and studied music. He balanced his studies with two jobs. As a dish scraper in the cafeteria, he was promoted to Assistant Director of Food Services due to his culinary skills. Harry’s second job was working at Huntsville Hospital as a custodian, cleaning and polishing floors. While working at Huntsville Hospital, he met the love of his life, Daisy Mae Pruitt, and was immediately captivated! Daisy admired Harry’s handsome, courteous, and respectful nature, as well as his clean-living habits. The two were married on December 28, 1958, at First Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at the time on Gallatin Street in Huntsville, Alabama. Their union was blessed with five children: Harry Jr, (deceased), Jeffrey Lynn, Lorelyn Juanina, Dawna Helaine, and Marsha Laverne. Harry’s life exemplified his dedication to the First Seventh-day Adventist Church, consistently upholding a standard of excellence in every role. As a deacon, he helped to ensure the church’s upkeep and fostered a welcoming, supportive environment for all. As Community Service Director, he organized outreach initiatives, and provided essential aid to those in need. His in-

nate gift for hospitality, coupled with his people skills and culinary talents, made him a stand-out Director of Hospitality. With the help of his team, every event was marked by love, fellowship, exceptional food, and service. Harry also served as the First Church First Elder, offering spiritual guidance. His role as the First Church Treasurer was most dear to him. He managed the church’s finances with meticulous care, maintaining impeccable records and demonstrating a deep commitment to financial stewardship.

Harry was an exceptional baker, whose creations became legendary throughout Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley. From the 1970s to the late 1990s, his butter pound cakes, with rich buttercream icing, and exquisitely decorated wedding cakes and groom’s cakes were beautiful and delicious.

Harry’s professional journey at Oakwood College was marked by innovation and exceptional leadership. In 1962, as College Bakery Manager, he revitalized operations and expanded market reach, securing placements for Oakwood’s baked goods in prominent retailers such as the Piggly Wiggly grocery stores and also Alabama A&M University. His demonstrated business acumen led to his promotion to College Health Food Store Manager in 1965. He oversaw the College Health Food Store, Snack Bar, and Bakery. Under his strategic guidance, these college industries experienced significant growth, with the Health Food Store evolving into the full-service Oakwood College Market. Harry’s forward-thinking approach led to the introduction of impactful programs, such as the student store credit program that provided crucial financial assistance to married students, faculty, and staff. In 1983, under his stewardship, the Oakwood Col-

lege Market achieved a milestone, becoming the college’s first division to generate more than $1 million in revenue. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Harry served as a respected mentor, encourager, and father figure to countless students. Even in retirement, Harry remained a dedicated community servant. He distinguished himself through the United Sates President’s Volunteer Service Award program, earning recognition from Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Progressing through the program’s Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels, he ultimately received the prestigious Presidential Call to Service Award, the highest honor for those who

contribute more than 4,000 lifetime volunteer hours. Harry also found joy in tending to his yard, which was a reflection of his meticulous nature and love for beauty.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Daisy P. Swinton, and his eldest son, Harry Swinton, Jr. Brother Swinton peacefully transitioned on February 28, 2025, and will be lovingly missed by

his family, a host of extended relatives, and close friends. t

Special Thanks to the Swinton family from Regional Voice magazine for sharing this fitting tribute. We also thank Ms. Debbe Millet for preparing these words for publication about the prolific and dedicated life of this family man,

RETIREMENT ZONE

ELDER RALPH PEAY, D.MIN–

HOW I MADE RETIREMENT WORK FOR ME

Reflections and Advice on the Journey

PART FIVE IN THE SERIES

INTRODUCTION

The Regional Conference Retirement Plan in conjunction with Regional Voice presents a five-part series (with this addition to the series) for retirees and Pre-retirees, focusing on the dynamic dimensions of retirement. In each case, Dr. Delbert Baker met with the interviewees and explored relevant aspects of the topic for retirees and pre-retirees. In this fifth installment we examine perspectives and strategies on meaningful living with pur pose and focus.

Retirement is often seen as a time to slow down, step back, and enjoy the rewards of years of hard work. However, for some, retirement is simply a new phase of pur pose-driven living. Elder Ralph Peay exemplifies this continued dedication. With a re markable 52 years of ministry behind him, he has remained actively engaged in spiritual leadership even two decades after his official retirement. His life’s work has spanned pas toring, youth ministry, departmental leadership, and serving as a conference president. Even now, at 94 years old, he remains a source of wisdom and inspiration to ma ny.

In this conversation, Elder Peay reflects on his journey, the lessons he has learned, and the joys and challenges of aging with purpose. With wit, warmth, and deep spiritual insight, he shares the principles that have guided him through decades of faithful service.

A CONVERSATION WITH ELDER RALPH PEAY…

SECTION 1: A Life of Ministry and Family

Q: Good morning, Elder Peay. Welcome to the Retirement Zone series, where we explore reflections, feelings, and thoughts about retirement. You are an excellent person to di alogue with on this subject. With 52 years of active ministry — from pastoring to departmental leadership to serving as a conference president — and now more than 20 years of re tirement, you have remained actively engaged in ministry. Could you summarize your journey for our readers?

Elder Peay: Thank you Dr. Baker. It is good to share with the Retirement Program. I began ministry in 1955 in the South-Cen tral Conference, where I pastored and later served as Youth Director. From there, I went to Northeastern as Youth Director,

then on to the Southern Union, where I also served in youth ministry and later as Associate Secretary. Eventually, I became President of South Atlantic Conference before retiring in 2005. It’s been a journey filled with rich experiences, blessings, and lessons. Thank God, I don’t have regrets. Q: What about your personal life? Tell us about your marriage and family.

t

MY PURPOSE REMAINS UNCHANGED. LIFE IS ABOUT SOMETHING YOU BELIEVE IN, SOMETHING YOU WANT TOCONTRIBUTE TO. s

my life, and a vital part of my ministry. I often say that I loved her more than I even realized at the time. We have one daughter, Ralita Arlene Simpson Fowler, who lives nearby in Lithonia, Georgia. Just last night, we had dinner together as her youngest daughter prepares for a mission trip to Brazil. My granddaughters are, Vinita, Mariana and April.

Elder Peay: Ah, my marriage was a great blessing. I met my wife, Juanita Erma Jackson, at Oakwood in 1950. We dated for four years and got married on September 5, 1954. We were married for 67 and a half years until her passing in January 2022. She was the love of

SECTION 2: Finding Purpose in Retirement

Q: You’ve had such an active and impactful ministry before and after retirement. What gives you purpose and direction now in your retirement zone?

Elder Peay: My purpose remains unchanged. Life is about something you believe in, something you want to contribute to. Since I was baptized into the Adventist Church as a teenager, my passion has been to help others know Jesus and that has remained a constant. Evangelism, helping people, inviting people to love Jesus have always been my calling, and that passion has never waned. But you have to be willing to let go, make changes and move to the next stage. Have a happy mindset for what you’ve been blessed to accomplish but be willing to move to the next stage. Retirement didn’t change my ministry motivation. It provided new and different avenues to facilitate that passion.

Q: Please share—how do you typically spend your days in retirement?

Elder Peay: I start each day at around 6:30 a.m., with what I call “unhurried time.” I read two devotionals, memorize a primary scripture, and reflect on the context. This time with the Lord sets

the tone for my day. After that, I cook my own breakfast — I’ve learned to cook quite well! You should try my cornbread from scratch! I also do my own laundry and enjoy doing it. I picked up that habit at Oakwood, where I worked in the laundry and learned some good ironing techniques from Mrs. Emerson, ‘way back in the day.’

Q: Good. Many people struggle with transitioning into retirement. What advice would you give them?

Elder Peay: Continue doing what you love, just on a different scale. Know what you love, then love what you do. Stay involved and keep learning. I call it “continuing education, for life!” Information excites me, and I believe we should always be learning something new. Also, keep your passion for ministry and service alive, don’t let retirement mean stagnation. That is one of the reasons I decided to begin and complete my doctorate in retirement. I love to learn and now I have additional time to do so.

of life. I really don’t think it is magic and much of it is not up to me. God gives life, I do my part and then how long I live is up to Him. These deep things you have to leave in the hands of God.

Q: You wrote an autobiography, Not Famous but Faithful, last year, at age 93. What motivated you and what’s behind the title?

Elder Peay: Well, it’s an account of my life, just telling my remarkable story of how a country boy, not famous but just faithful to God, could be used by God to touch the lives of so many people. I feel good just thinking about it. The book’s creation is really because of my grandkids and daughter! They nagged me nonstop, asking me questions and insisting that I write my story. I finally gave in, and I’m glad I did. Legacy is important. It’s more than leaving money; it’s about telling your life story and passing on wisdom and experiences.

Q: What are your top three leadership lessons?

Elder Peay:

1. Participation – Believe in people and know that they have a right to give input on decisions that affect them; be bold enough to believe in them and then engage and involve the people in the de-

SECTION 3: Health, Legacy, and Leadership

Q: You passed from the distinctive octogenarian, in your 80s to nonagenarian in your 90s. You have been blessed to be 94 years old. Remarkable! What has surprised you about living in your 90s?

Elder Peay: Honestly, I never thought I’d live this long. When I became a vegetarian at Oakwood, I thought I might make it to my 70s or 80s, but 90s? That was beyond my imagination! But here I am, still doing the things I did in my 70s and 80s. Yes, I’m blessed but not presumptuous. I thank God for life and health every day and always seek to live.

Q: Do you have a fitness routine?

Elder Peay: (Laughs) I suppose you could call me a “skinny Pharisee.” I don’t have a structured fitness routine, but I stay active. I walk and go up and down the stairs in my home. Maybe my DNA and metabolism have been kind to me! I do my part but it’s God who give the gift

cision-making process.

2. Prayer – Prayer has been my anchor. Whereas participation has to do with people, prayer has to do with connecting to God. The God connection gives the act of participation the power of God to flow through my leadership. I remember a church meeting that got out of hand. I stopped and took a 10-minute prayer break, and God gave me the solution.

3. Preparation – I’m talking about learning and continuing education. Never stop learning. There is Participation (people), Prayer (divine connection) and then there is the Preparation (always learning and seeking to be better).

I have to keep being fresh with learning and ideas and ways to make the program work better

SECTION 4: Looking Forward to Eternity

Q: What does heaven and eternity mean to you now?

Elder Peay: The older I get, the more I realize how fragile life is. Every day of my life I want to build a character for eternity. So, the promise of eternal life is more precious than ever. I don’t want to miss it! I look forward to a place where

15 Notables from Elder Ralph Peay

1. “Retirement doesn’t retire your purpose.”

2. “Evangelism isn’t a phase — it’s a passion for life.”

3. “Don’t let retirement become a rocking chair for your calling.”

4. “Age may slow the pace, but not the purpose.

5. “Legacy is more than what you leave — it’s what you live.”

6. “Keep your soul young by letting your mind keep learning.”

7. “I wasn’t famous, I just tried to be faithful.”

8. “Life in my 90s isn’t much different — I just do things a little slower.”

9. “I didn’t seek the presidency, and I wasn’t bitter when it ended."

10. “Ministry never retires — it just shifts location.”

11. “Heaven isn’t a dream — it’s a destination. And I don’t want to miss it.”

12. “There’s no end to learning — not here, and certainly not in eternity.”

13. “Passion for souls — until my final breath.”

14. “My mama prayed I’d be a preacher before I was even born — God answered!”

15 “Every generation needs to hear your story — it’s more than history, it’s hope.”

there’s no more illness and where we will be constantly learning new things. Eternity is precious to me because it opens up the hope of life without end. At that time 94 years won’t seem like much. Eternity is my belief.

Q: Of the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which ones resonate with you most now?

Elder Peay: They are all important and connected. But the Sabbath is high on my list — it provides rest, contemplation, and renewal. It keeps life regulated, balanced and offers me weekly opportunities to worship, fellowship and keep my vital spiritual life in order. Then there is the inspiration of the Bible — it’s the foundation of everything I believe. The Bible is my road map for life. Through it I know how to relate to God, people and everything else in life.

Q: In closing, what legacy do you want to leave?

Elder Peay: I want to be remembered as someone who reflected the character of Jesus and lived to bless others. I love Jesus so much, and I want others to love Him too.

CLOSING

Q: Thank you, Elder Peay. Your wisdom and insights are a blessing. Would you close with a prayer?

Elder Peay: Our Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your bountiful mercies. You have been so good, and we thank you for Jesus and the gift of salvation. Bless the ministry of the Regional Retirement Plan, we thank You for its creation and leadership. Bless all the retirees. Help us remain faithful as we look forward to the grand reunion with You and the redeemed of all ages. In Jesus’ name, Amen.t

Delbert W. Baker, PhD, is an author, educator, administrator and pastor. He is Director of Research and Development at the Regional Conference Retirement Plan Office in the Charles Dudley, Sr. Regional Conference Ministries Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

REVITALIZING ADVENTIST EDUCATION: OVERCOMING ENROLLMENT CHALLENGES

10 Sound Methods to Boost Our Schools

BY DR. JOHN C. ALBERTY JR.

In 2011, I made a significant career shift, leaving my position in the public school system to take on the role of principal at the George E. Peters Adventist School in Hyattsville, Maryland. This decision was deeply influenced by the Holy Spirit, as my children were already attending an Adventist school, and I felt a calling to serve within this educational system. However, once I assumed my new role, I quickly discovered that George E. Peters, like many other Adventist schools, was experiencing a steady decline in enrollment. This was not an isolated issue but rather a widespread trend within

seek answers regarding the root causes of enrollment decline and the specific strategies that had fueled our dramatic turnaround.

When I embarked on my doctoral dissertation, I chose to examine one of the most pressing challenges facing Seventh-day Adventist education: declining enrollment. This issue was particularly evident in the North American Division

church support, and parental prioritization of Adventist education.

Key Findings

The study’s findings revealed that stakeholders perceived resources as the primary factor influencing enrollment shifts in the Regional Conference school system. Leadership and tuition costs were equally ranked as the second most influ-

many Seventh-day Adventist conference school systems.

Despite the school boasting excellent teachers, strong test scores, and a well-maintained facility, enrollment numbers continued to fall. This raised an important question in my mind: What were the key factors contributing to this decline, not just at George E. Peters but across other Adventist schools? During my tenure as principal, I worked diligently to reverse this trend, and by God’s grace, the school’s enrollment surged from fewer than 40 students to more than 180. We even developed a waiting list and initiated a building project to accommodate our growth. Yet, I continued to

of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where schools were either closing or experiencing substantial reductions in student numbers. My study aimed to identify the perceived factors influencing enrollment trends within a Regional Conference school system, which saw its student population shrink from 1,277 to 635 over a twenty-year period.

To conduct this quantitative study, I distributed a survey questionnaire to key stakeholders, including principals, superintendents, board members, pastors, teachers, parents, and alumni. Participants were asked to rate various factors they believed contributed to declining enrollment, including leadership, curriculum, tuition costs, lack of diversity, alternative schooling options (private, charter, and public), facility conditions, resource availability, teacher quality,

ential factors, followed by curriculum as the third factor. The condition of school facilities ranked fourth, while the quality of teachers was identified as the fifth most significant factor. Church support was ranked sixth, parental prioritization of Adventist education came in seventh, and school choice options ranked eighth. Interestingly, racial diversity was perceived as the least influential factor affecting enrollment

.

Addressing the Challenges

1. Securing Adequate Resources

One of the most pressing challenges facing Adventist schools is the lack of adequate resources. Schools require funding not only to maintain operations but also to offer the services and programs that parents desire, such as transportation, special education services, sports, and

before-and-after school care. The study suggests that traditional funding methods, such as tuition and church subsidies, may no longer be sufficient. Therefore, schools must explore alternative funding strategies to remain competitive and financially sustainable.

2. Strengthening Leadership

Parents place significant importance on leadership when deciding where to enroll their children. This underscores the necessity for school leaders to actively promote their vision for their institutions and engage with potential families. Additionally, conference administrators must prioritize hiring passionate and qualified individuals who are committed to the mission of Adventist education. Pastors affiliated with constituent churches should also view school support as a vital part of their ministry rather than a financial burden.

3. Balancing Tuition Costs and Affordability

While stakeholders acknowledged that Adventist schools often lack the resources they need, they also expressed concerns about rising tuition costs. This creates a difficult dilemma: increasing tuition could provide much-needed resources, but it might also drive families away. The study highlights the urgent need for additional scholarship programs and creative financial aid solutions to make Adventist education more accessible.

4. Enhancing Curriculum and Instruction

Although all North American Adventist schools follow a standardized curriculum, parents expect a rigorous and engaging educational experience for their children. To meet these expectations, schools must invest in supplementary materials, teacher training, and innova-

tive teaching methods that enhance the curriculum and make it more appealing to families.

5. Improving

Facilities

The condition of school buildings plays a significant role in enrollment decisions. Parents want their children to learn in safe, well-maintained environments. The study suggests that conference leaders should assess facility needs and prioritize capital improvement projects to ensure that schools remain attractive to prospective families.

6.

Investing in Teacher Quality

Parents recognize the importance of having dedicated and skilled teachers. If they perceive that a school has excellent educators, they are more likely to enroll their children. Conversely, concerns about teacher quality may deter families from choosing an Adventist school. This underscores the need for ongoing

professional development and competitive compensation to attract and retain top-tier educators.

7. Strengthening Church Support

While church support is crucial for financial stability, parents do not necessarily consider it a primary factor when selecting a school. However, constituent churches play an essential role in providing financial aid, advocacy, and community engagement, which can ultimately influence enrollment trends.

8. Emphasizing the Value of Adventist Education

The study found that while some parents highly value Adventist education, it is not always a top priority. This suggests that schools must do more to highlight the unique benefits of Adventist education and emphasize how it aligns with parents’ spiritual and academic aspirations for their children.

9. Competing with Alternative Schooling Options

Although public, charter, and private schools offer alternatives, these were not identified as primary factors affecting enrollment. However, Adventist schools must remain competitive by continuously improving their offerings and effectively communicating their value proposition to families.

10. Rethinking Racial Diversity Perceptions

Unlike some might assume, racial diversity was not perceived as a key factor affecting enrollment in the Allegheny East Conference school system. In fact,

some parents actively seek out schools that reflect their cultural and community values, much like students choosing to attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This can serve as a marketing advantage for Adventist schools catering to predominantly Black communities.

Moving

Forward

To ensure long-term sustainability and growth, Adventist schools must take strategic action based on these findings. Schools should explore new funding mechanisms, invest in strong leadership, enhance curriculum offerings, improve facilities, and support teacher development. Additionally, marketing efforts should focus on communicating the unique advantages of Adventist education while addressing parents’ practical concerns about affordability and quality.

By implementing these changes, Adventist schools can not only reverse the trend of declining enrollment but also create thriving educational environments that nurture students academically, spiritually, and socially. The success story of George E. Peters Adventist School serves as an inspiring example of what is possible when dedicated leadership, church support, and faith-driven commitment come together to strengthen Adventist education. t

John C. Alberty Jr., Ph.D., M.S., M.S., CCCSLP, is the Superintendent of Schools for the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. This report is from his original research.

Trevor Kinlock, PhD., M. Div., currently serves as President of the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. He has more than 20 years of experience leading and supporting Black Adventist schools. He holds a PhD in Sociology and Criminology from Howard University, where he also teaches as adjunct professor. His specializations include race analysis, urban studies, social inequality, and the sociology of education. Dr. Kinlock’s research and professional practice are directed toward ensuring equity and access for communities of color to quality systems of education. He coordinated this coverage.

THE CONCLAVE CHOOSES AN AMERICAN, POPE LEO XIV

And the whole world marveled . . . (Revelation 13:3 KJV).

Special Regional Voice Report

• Pope Leo XIV is number 267 in the line of popes.

• Born Robert Francis Prevost, September 16, 1955, on the South side of Chicago, Illinois,

• To Louis and Mildred Martinez Prevost (mother was of Creole descent).

• Two older brothers, Louis and John, recalled that years earlier as a young child, their brother Rob took the role of priest and conducted mass in his own simple way.

• A priest was who he wanted to be.

• Catholic education through childhood and youth.

• Villanova University in Pennsylvania.

• Degree in mathematics in 1977. He also studied philosophy there.

• Entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in Saint Louis, later in 1977.

• Made his first profession in 1978.

• Made his solemn vows as a priest in 1981.

• Received his theological education at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

• Sent to Rome to study Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

• Ordained a priest in Rome in 1982.

• Prevost obtained his license in 1984.

• While preparing his doctoral thesis, he was sent to Peru for the first time, to an Augustinian mission (1985–1986).

• Defended his doctoral thesis in 1987:

The Role of the Local Prior in the Order of Saint Augustine."

• Appointed vocation director and missions director at a province in Olympia Fields, Illinois.

• Returned to South America in 1988 to join the mission in Trujillo, Peru.

• Served there for 11 years as a priest, judicial vicar and professor of Canon Law, Patristics, and Moral Theology at the Major Seminary.

Fast forward to 2013. The Catholic Church took the unprecedented step of choosing a non-European from the Americas, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who was born in Buenos Aires, Argenti-

na. He took the papal name of Pope Francis I, after Saint Francis of Assisi. He would lead the Catholic Church from 2013 to 2025. During that period, Pope Francis took the time to elevate Robert Prevost, the American priest who served in Peru.

• In 2015, Robert Prevost was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo by Pope Francis.

• In 2023, a pivotal year, the Pope called him to Rome and promoted him to the rank of Archbishop.

• In September 2023, Pope Francis elevated Prevost to become a Cardinal.

• In October 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as a member of the Dicastery for Evangelization.

• In February 2025, the Argentine Pope promoted him to the Order of Bishops, granting him the title of the Suburbicarian Church of Albano.

Rapid changes came at a heart-pounding pace in 2025 as the world looked on. Pope Francis battled lung disease and serious respiratory infection for months. Greatly weakened, Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, he was rolled out to greet the thousands below in St. Peter’s Square who came to hear his words. They would be among his last. The next day, Monday, April 21, 2025, he awoke to a stroke, heart failure, and was dead in minutes.

April 26, 2025

• Funeral and burial for Pope Francis I May 7 and 8, 2025

• Papal Conclave held in seclusion, Sistine Chapel of the Apostolic Palace, Vatican City May 8, 2025

• Pope Leo XIV was chosen, First pontiff from the United States of America

All information for this special Regional Voice magazine coverage is based on reports from Vatican News.

THE MOUNT OLIVET SDA‒CHURCH CELEBRATES

105TH ANNIVERSARY

BY KYNA HINSON

Members of the Mount Olivet SDA Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, embrace many virtues—faith, hope, and especially love. They seek to live them out in their everyday lives, and even more so in this year of joy, because they are marking 105 years since their beginning, along with their growth and continuous development since then.

According to church history, in the early 1900s, Sister Katie Covington became the first black person known to keep the Sabbath in Fort Lauderdale. Since there was no house of worship, Sister Covington opened her home to other Sabbath-keepers.

By the 1920s, their numbers grew to include Ms. Georgia Sims and her daughter Ellen Turnquest, Michael and Ellen Cartwright, Sister Helen Rose, her two sons, her daughter and a sister, all worshipping in the Covington home.

As time progressed, more couples, families and young people joined and stayed with the group. It included Leon and Julia Carroll, Ellen and Michael Cartwright, Howard and Irene Turnquest, Willie A. and Wille E. Akers, J. Lucille West, and Alma and Wesley Stephens.

With even more added to their numbers, they now met in schools, moving from one near some railroad tracks to an elementary school. After that, they decided to purchase their own building on Short Third Street, under the leadership of Elder Harold Singleton.

According to church history, they labored together to renovate the old wooden structure themselves and completed the work in 1938. From then until 1962, this building would serve as the home of the Mount Olivet Church and of the church school for a time. That year in Dania, a city near Fort Lauderdale, Elder Singleton also held a tent meeting and baptized almost 20 souls. Some also attended the Mount Olivet Church since there was no church building in Dania at that time, though one would be built later.

Elder Singleton’s district included churches in cities from Key West up to Fort Pierce, Florida. The distance from these two points was approximately 300 miles. With such a large geographical district, Leon Carroll served as the local Head Elder and was assisted by Elder Willie Akers.

Years later, Elder Singleton was called to become president of the South Atlantic Conference, the first regional conference in the territory that included North and South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

Church history tells us that in 1950, Elder Walter Starks directed a very successful evangelistic meeting in Fort Lauderdale, and more than 50 were baptized. The Mount Olivet Church was strong in structure but filled to capacity and inadequate to meet the congregation’s needs. Every pastor who led the church over

ACCORDING TO CHURCH HISTORY, IN THE EARLY 1900S, SISTER KATIE COVINGTON BECAME THE FIRST BLACK PERSON KNOWN TO KEEP THE SABBATH IN FORT LAUDERDALE s.

FIRST ANNIVERSARY SERVICE

MOUNT OLIVET SDA CHURCH

ELDER JOHN SIMONS BREAKS GROUND

TENT MEETING VIEWS

TENT MEETING VIEWS

CHOIR RENDERS MUSIC

SOUTH ATLANTIC LEADERS

SOUTH ATLANTIC LEADERS

the next decade recognized and sought to meet those needs. When Elder John Simons was the pastor, he worked hard to implement a building program, but the plans were interrupted when he was called to serve as the Book and Bible House manager for the South Atlantic Conference.

In the fall of 1960, Elder Joseph Hinson, his wife Mrs. Carolyn Hinson, and their preschool daughter Kyna came in answer to his call to pastor the Mount Olivet SDA Church. He noted the congregation’s needs for more growth and expansion, despite obstacles and challenges. They set out to work together. They would overcome the obstacles to meet their goals.

This is where my own pre-school memories come to light. I remember services at the old church on Short Third Street, and how the church leaders and Elder Hinson made strategic plans for growth. First, the congregation offered solid backing for another evangelistic tent meeting. There were choirs and groups to offer special music; members to personally invite the public with handbills; ushers to welcome and seat them; deacons to quietly handle anyone drunk and disorderly, and to welcome them back when they got sober. There were also wonderful Vacation Bible School lessons and crafts to engage and delight all of us children!

The campaign was held on land that belonged to church members Brother and Sister Wesley Stephens. At the close of the meetings on 649 N.W 15th Way, Elder Hinson encouraged the Mount Olivet congregation to purchase the property for church construction. They did just that. They found a Christian architect who drew up plans for a beautiful edifice, then voted to bring those plans to life.

Church history states that on August 13, 1961, Elder John Simons came back to turn the first shovel of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony. He was joined by the Fort Lauderdale mayor, city officials, and another former pastor, Elder Calvin B. Rock (who was then pastoring at the Miami Bethany SDA Church), more community and church leaders, and Elder Hinson.

That was one exciting afternoon! It

would be followed by more exciting events – special concerts and rallies to raise funds.

Ms. Joyce Bryant was a beautiful soprano who grew up as an Adventist in Oakland, California. She left the church to build a successful career as a nightclub singer. Years later, disillusioned, she left the nightclub life and enrolled at Oakwood College. Then she decided to throw herself into building the work for black Seventh-day Adventist causes and for civil rights. She came to Fort Lauderdale more than once to perform and support her friends Joseph and Carolyn Hinson and the Mount Olivet SDA Church Building Fund. She enchanted her audiences while filling halls with beautiful music. Her efforts were successful. Sacrifices were made from the pews to the pulpit, and God rewarded each one. The new Mount Olivet SDA Church rose on 15th Way to serve its members and its community, a testament to God’s providence. Construction continued through the Grand Opening weekend, May 13, 1961. The pews had been purchased but not yet delivered, so new folding chairs were put to use. Nothing could dim this enthusiasm. The motto was fulfilled: “We Came, We Saw, We Conquered.”

The Way We Were

One year later, everything was in place and in good order. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows to the pews and floors. More than 500 worshippers gathered for this anniversary celebration and to bid farewell to the Hinson family. (We came with three members and left with four, since my sister Lisa was born during this time!)

More than 60 years later, it was my great honor to return to the Mount Olivet SDA Church’s 105th Anniversary in May 2025. I received warm greetings from the current pastor, Elder Lester A. Parkinson and from Dr. Calvin and Mrs. Sharon Rock, and from Dr. Carlton P. Byrd. It was good to visit with friends from the Cartwright, Murray, Salley, and Rachel families, especially Cherry Jean Rachel. Then my extended family, the Holmes sisters, brought so much joy. Shirley, Gloria, Athalee and Gwendolyn have families of their own but still offered embraces to me

and their beautiful voices to God in song. My new friend, Jackie Vernon-Thomp son, a Co-Chair for Anniversary events, made me feel at home again. And finally, Mrs. Julia Rachel McElvy, lifelong member and Anniversary Chair, put it so very well: “The church has always included showing compassion and care to other— regardless of background or life circumstances. The church’s strength lies in its ability to uplift, support, and unify people from diverse walks of life.” t

Kyna Hinson, Editor of Regional Voice magazine, was very grateful to return to her childhood church, built with the joint efforts of this congregation and the pastoral care of her parents, Elder Joseph and Mrs. Carolyn Hinson. Special thanks to my sisters Lisa Hinson and Marla Hinson Fordham and brother-in-law Walter (Skoog) Fordham for photography research. Seeing God work over generations can bring HOPE to us all.

CAMP MEETING SCHEDULES FOR 2025

Data Compiled by PRISCILA PANCORBO

Allegheny East Conference

June 27 - 29 2025

Theme: REFRESH AEC.

Speakers: Dr. Emil Peeler, Dr. Trevor Kinlock, Andre Payne

More Info: https://www.visitaec.org/

Allegheny West Conference

NO ALLEGHENY WEST 2025 CAMP MEETING Conference Website: https://www.awconf.org

Central States Conference

NO CENTRAL STATES CAMP MEETING IN 2025

More Info: https://www.central-states.org/

Lake Region Conference

NO LAKE REGION CAMP MEETING IN 2025

More Info: https://www.lrcsda.org/

Northeastern Conference

June 20 to June 28, 2025

Theme: OUTPOUR - The Power of Pentecost More Info: https://www.northeastern.org/

South Atlantic Conference

June 9 – 14, 2025

Theme: PENTECOST 25 – Restore. Renew. Revive.

Speakers: Henry M. Wright, Michelle Mota-Poyser, Abraham Henry, Cryston Josiah

More Info: https://sacsda.org/

South Central Conference

June 13 – 21, 2025

Theme: THY KINGDOM COME, THY WILL BE DONE

More Info: https://iamsouthcentral.org/

Southeastern Conference

June 16 – 21, 2025

Theme: OVERFLOW

More Info: https://www.secsda.org/

Southwest Region Conference

June 11 – 14, 2025

Theme: LET IT RAIN

Speakers: Dr. Abraham Jules, Taurus Montgomery and Claudia Allen More Info:  https://southwestregionsda. org/ Facebook Twitter Pinterest

Mrs. Priscila Pancorbo, Executive Assistant to the Director of the Office for Regional Conference Ministries (ORCM), compiled the data for this 2025 report.

ELDER JOSEPH AND MRS. CAROLYN HINSON KYNA AND LISA, CIRCA 1966

CO-CHAIR JACKIE VERNON-THOMPSON

ELDER LESTER PARKINSON, SENIOR PASTOR

Orlando, Florida, will become the epicenter of youth empowerment this August as the Black Adventist Youth Directors Association (BAYDA) prepares to host United Youth Congress 2025. From August 13 to 17, the Orange County Convention Center will welcome thousands of middle school, high school, and college students for an event that happens only once every five years.

More Than a Conference This BAYDA event brings youth together, from students to professionals, from nine regional conferences, with one clear mission: equipping young people to impact their churches and commu-

nities. This isn’t about sitting through endless lectures or checking boxes on a to-do list. It’s about real preparation for real life.

The congress addresses the issues young people actually face. Career planning sessions will help students think beyond graduation day. Drug awareness programs will tackle this crisis that affects communities nationwide. Discussions about relationships and sexual abstinence until marriage will provide guidance in a culture that often sends mixed messages. Academic and spiritual workshops will work together, because faith and learning aren’t separate compartments of life.

Breaking Free from Fear

This year’s theme, “FEARLESS,” draws from 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (KJV). The choice wasn’t random. Too many young people live their lives, limited by fears they’ve accepted as truth about themselves. BAYDA wants to change that nar-

United Youth Congress 2025: FEARLESS

tWHAT SETS UNITED YOUTH CONGRESS APART IS ITS REFUSAL TO SEPARATE FAITH FROM PRACTICAL LIVING. s .

rative. They see students who doubt their abilities, who settle for less than their potential, who let fear make their decisions. United Youth Congress 2025 exists to challenge those limiting beliefs and to help participants discover the confidence to take calculated risks and step beyond their comfort zones.

An Experience Worth the Trip

The speaker lineup brings together voices that resonate with today’s young people:

• Dr. Paula Olivier, President of BAYDA, will share her vision for youth leadership.

• Dr. MyRon Edmonds, CEO/Speaker/ Author/Consultant from MyRon Edmonds Leadership Group, brings expertise in personal development.

• Debleaire Snell, Speaker/Director of “Breath of Life Television Ministries,” offers powerful spiritual insights.

• Pastor Alexis Madrid, Associate Pastor at Mount Sinai Church, and

• Pastor Damian Chandler, Associate Youth Director for South Central Conference, round out a dynamic speaking team.

• The event concludes with a concert featuring Grammy Award-winning artist Jonathan McReynolds.

Building Tomorrow Today

What sets United Youth Congress apart is its refusal to separate faith from practical living. Outreach projects aren’t just service requirements but opportunities to see faith in action. Career workshops don’t just talk about finding jobs but about discovering purpose. The entire experience recognizes that young people need both a spiritual foundation and practical skills.

The congress also acknowledges that growth happens in community.

Students from across the North American Division will connect, share experiences, and build relationships that extend far beyond August 17.

As Orlando prepares to welcome this gathering, participants can expect more than inspiration. They can expect transformation. In a world that often tells young people to be afraid, United Youth Congress 2025 offers a different message: Be Fearless! t

Gerson Pancorbo is the Communications Director for the Office for Regional Conference Ministries and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan. He produced this coverage in anticipation of the great BAYDA upcoming event, United Youth Congress 2025. Make plans now to help your youth attend!

BY GERSON PANCORBO

Dr. Paula Olivier Dr. MyRon Edmonds Debleaire Snell Alexis Madrid Damian Chandler Jonathan McReynolds

Orlando, Florida

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