Flags Magazine - July 2021

JULY 2021

Graduate School and Seminary

Volume 16, Number 1 1

CONTENTS AIIAS EXECUTIVE OFFICERS President: Ginger Ketting-Weller, PhD

CONTENTS

Vice president for Academic Administration: Dolf Oberholster, PhD Vice president for Finance: Jorge Montero, MBA Vice president FOR Student Services: Bryan Sumendap, DMin Dean, Graduate School: Danny Rantung, PhD Dean, Seminary: Ricardo González, PhD FLAGS COMMITTEE Ginger Ketting-Weller Bruce Sumendap Sharnie Love Zamora-Belarmino Christian Rodelas Irene Rivera Donie Ver Medalla Gracel Ann Saban Sheri Joy Namanya Naw Ei Phyu Sin Lay Prakash Jacob

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FLAGS EDITORIAL BOARD Editor: Sharnie Love Zamora-Belarmino content Editor: Ginger Ketting-Weller Copy Editors: Irene Rivera Donie Ver Medalla Layout & Design editor: Christian Rodelas

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FLAGS, JULY 2021 VOLUME 16, NUMBER 1 Flags is the semi-annual international magazine for alumni and friends of the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS), a graduate-level educational institution of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

ISSN 1908-1693 GENERAL INQUIRIES AIIAS Lalaan 1, Silang, Cavite 4118, Philippines Phone: +63 (46) 414-4300 Fax: +63 (46) 414-4301 Email: admissions@aiias.edu Website: www.aiias.edu SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/aiias twitter.com/aiiasedu instagram.com/aiiasedu

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FEATURES 06

AIIAS Will Go

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An Interview with the AIIAS Senior Pastor

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Looking into Money and Spirituality: A Business Perspective

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The Basket that Never Goes Empty

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ABOUT THE COVER The mission of AIIAS is “to develop leaders through distinctively Seventh-day Adventist graduate education, excelling in spirituality, scholarship, and service.” This issue of Flags focuses on spirituality at AIIAS. Prakash Jacob, student chaplain and student in the Doctor of Ministry program, models one of the ways in which AIIAS students and employees connect with Christ: through Bible study, prayer, and dedicated time for personal devotion.

THE PRESIDENT’S BANNER:

By Bryan Sumendap

The president has invited Dr. Bryan Sumendap, the vice president for student services to write the guest editorial.

Focusing on Opportunities Amid the Pandemic: AIIAS Campus Spiritual Life

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he pandemic has brought opportunities to look into the students’ interests and spiritual needs in a new context, and to think about what could work. As AIIAS effectively shifted to virtual face-to-face classes, worship services moved into a new dimension. The new context provided opportunities to stay connected in fellowship and worship despite the absence of physical presence.

But what opportunities does the pandemic provide toward nurturing the spiritual life of AIIAS students? Two points are worth mentioning. These are the in-reach and outreach activities. The in-reach activities include the chapel program, students’ Week of Prayer, Sabbath worship services, and community worship. The outreach is the active involvement of students to minister outside the borders of AIIAS. The restriction on social gatherings has mandated changes in various in-reach activities that help nurture AIIAS students’ spirituality. The chapel program every Friday and other worship services have been delivered through Zoom calls, online meetings, and live-streaming. The online platform allows unique opportunities for student and faculty interaction and discussion synchronously while enriching their understanding of the message.

In the past, the chapel worship has catered to the campus students and spouses, administration, faculty, and staff.

However, the online platform has brought everyone, including online students, alumni, and church members around the globe, together. People whom we could not meet with previously due to physical distance are now within reach!

The flexibility offered by technology opens borderless opportunities for AIIAS students to grow spiritually. They are invited to preach in the different parts of the world Bryan Sumendap, DMin, is the vice president for student services at AIIAS.

without traveling. They contribute to various church programs, including midweek prayer meetings, Sabbath worship services, chapel gatherings, and the Weeks of Prayer outside of AIIAS and often in their home countries.

The in-reach activities lead to outreach enrichment.

The pandemic has indeed brought new life to spiritual nurture and outreach. AIIAS students, faculty, and staff can readily visit different churches and participate in various ministries around the world, using online technologies. This has allowed AIIAS to experience a deeper involvement in the gospel ministry, and it’s been rippling out to ministries elsewhere.

Development

SPIRITUAL BUILDINGS?

By Jim C Weller

C

an a building be spiritual? “A building has no spirit, so it cannot be spiritual.” This answer is rational, but maybe too simplistic. We designed the new AIIAS Academy building to be a spiritual place.

young people there. Our mission is to prepare them for Christian leadership in this world during difficult times. Our program is well-established, and when this building is complete, students will enjoy enhanced science labs, makerspace, and more opportunities for student leadership and mission outreach.

Teachers integrate faith and learning in each lesson, godly parents mentor their children daily, and students practice justice, mercy, and faithfulness; these things reveal God’s Spirit at work in any building. But buildings do have the power to inspire us, and that’s how we designed the new academy building. The four twisted columns (reminiscent of King Solomon’s columns), high ceilings, and window art all call our hearts to reverence and remembrance. And under the building’s foundation are buried one copy of each of the Bible and Ellen G. White’s book, Education. Their highlighted words remind us that “unless the Lord builds the house, we labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1-2), and that “the work of education and redemption are one” (White,1952, p. 30).

However, committed Adventist education is seldom allowed to progress unchallenged. First, the Taal Volcano eruption and then the protracted pandemic have nearly exhausted us. If you share our passion for establishing young people in the faith and for preparing them to lead with energy and intelligence, I would invite you to join us in our final fundraising push.

You can find the “Giving” tab at www.aiias.edu, or you may contact me directly at principal@aiias.edu.

Reference:

White, E. (1952). Education. Pacific Press

Jim C Weller, PhD, is the principal at AIIAS Academy.

So, can a building be spiritual? I doubt this one will go to heaven, but I do think it will help us take our

Mock-up design concept of the new AIIAS Academy building

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FEATURE

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t didn’t take long for AIIAS leaders to notice that the current Seventh-day Adventist I Will Go strategic plan fits AIIAS perfectly. The introduction to the strategic plan states, “I Will Go involves all church members in reaching the world, inspiring and equipping them to use their Godgiven spiritual gifts in witness and service for Christ.” With a mission to develop leaders for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, AIIAS has long been focused on mission, particularly as it is reflected in the I Will Go goals.

Preparation to carry out our Godgiven mission is planted deep within our hearts, nurtured in the soil of both formal and co-curricular education at AIIAS. Ten objectives make up the I Will Go plan, divided into mission objectives, spiritual growth objectives, leadership objectives, and one objective set aside for the guidance of the Holy Spirit within a given organization.

The first five objectives in I Will Go focus on a worldwide mission, reaching unreached areas in the 10/40 Window, developing resources for mission to non-Christian religions and belief systems, and strengthening the institutions that prepare individuals to lead in this work. With our strong emphasis on mission and offering masters and doctoral programs in missiology, the resources at AIIAS for preparing individuals to accomplish contextualized outreach are incredibly rich. Specifically, the seminary provides emphases in the areas of world religions (Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and animism), urban studies, intercultural studies,

The recently-voted campus spiritual master plan highlights discipleship for individuals and families. It also includes a special outreach to youth and the involvement of AIIAS academy students in mission outreach. In all our spiritual programming a biblical worldview is seen, “front and center.”

Just one example is the delightful Creation Art exhibit featuring children’s artwork during the 2020 Creation Sabbath. “AIIAS will go!”

By Ginger Ketting-Weller

and postmodernism and secularism.

Capitalizing on our diverse modalities in offering programs online, at distance learning centers, in cohorts, and in traditional on-campus delivery, “AIIAS will go!” AIIAS is prepared to pursue an even broader reach as church organizations need our partnership in meeting their strategic goals.

The next three objectives of the I Will Go plan can be seen in implementation on the AIIAS campus.

The I Will Go strategic plan also features objectives focusing on strengthening leadership capacity in the church through regular growth opportunities. This directly aligns with the AIIAS mission statement, beginning with the words, “to develop leaders…”

The pandemic has prompted AIIAS to open up a new avenue for supporting the development of leaders. The seminary now offers free webinars for pastors anywhere in the world, a valuable resource for continuing education. Webinar attendees also get a taste of what it’s like to sit at the feet of AIIAS professors. The graduate school has also offered webinars and events for professional and personal development; these can be accessed at the AIIAS Media YouTube channel.

“AIIAS will go,” even online!

Finally, on the AIIAS campus, one frequently hears prayers inviting the Holy Spirit to fill the campus and be active in what is done here. The Student Mission Association has always been active, even in pandemic times. The modality and activity may have changed, but the commitment remains solid: “AIIAS Will Go!”

Ginger Ketting-Weller, PhD, is the president of AIIAS.

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SPIRITUAL MASTER PLAN A

IIAS focuses on preparing leaders for mission, spreading the influence of the institution farther, and providing a strong resource base for the institution. AIIAS continues to serve adult students representing 60 different countries and provides education to 200+ academy K-12 students. It also supports the spiritual growth of the faculty and staff that reside on campus. The AIIAS Community is a reflection of its mission and of the Seventh-day Adventist world church.

Adventism and service are integrated throughout the academic programs through a rich collection of academic experiences, resources, and research interests which enhance the spiritual growth of students, faculty, and staff at AIIAS. The AIIAS Spiritual Master Plan is strongly focused on personal spiritual growth and outreach at all levels, giving attention to specific areas not covered by the institution-wide master plan. Both plans support and encourage mission outreach in this region of the world.

THE CORE OF THE PLAN: THEMES, GOALS AND KPIs THEME 1: DISCIPLESHIP & MINISTRY Goal 1.1: To develop a Christ–Centered community of spirit-filled disciples of Jesus.

KPI 1.1.3 Establish a discipleship/fellowship group for single individuals studying and working at AIIAS. Goal 1.2: To help youth and young adults place God first and exemplify a biblical worldview.

KPI 1.2.1 Coordinate with the AIIAS Church to provide specific programming targeted to spiritual nurture and support of youth/young adults, and to institute a succession development plan for sustainable leadership of youth activities.

Goal 1.3: To strengthen the discipleship role of pastors, teachers, and other frontline workers and provide them with regular growth opportunities.

KPI 1.3.1 Formulate a systematic pastoral visitation program for families and individuals living and working at AIIAS in such a way that visitation is carried out by a variety of pastoral, chaplaincy, and lay individuals.

THEME 2: MISSION OUTREACH Goal 2.1: To revive the concept of worldwide mission and sacrifice for mission as a way of life involving not only pastors, but every church member, young and old, in the joy of witnessing for Christ and making disciples.

KPI 2.1.1 Develop an AIIAS Academy mission outreach program for students at all levels, to prepare them to lead in mission service.

KPI 1.1.1 Promote small groups fellowship to learn ways to acknowledge Jesus as the ultimate authority in our lives, and voluntarily submit ourselves to His control.

KPI 1.1.2 Provide annual training for discipleship group leaders on the AIIAS campus.

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Goal 2.2: To strengthen and diversify Adventist outreach in large cities, across the 10/40 Window, among unreached and under-reached people groups, and to non-Christian religions.

KPI 2.2.1 Develop and implement an outreach initiative to local cities around the AIIAS campus.

KPI 2.2.2 Develop and implement a sustainable plan for reaching the business community in Makati—and/or other upscale areas of Metro Manila—with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

THEME 3: INTERNATIONAL CULTURE Goal 3.1: To provide a vibrant spiritual culture which embodies the multinational, multicultural, and multiracial nature of AIIAS in a way that demonstrates a little foretaste of heaven.

KPI 3.1.1 Collaborate with the worship committee of the AIIAS Church and with the Spiritual Life Committee of the institution to bring increased variety, with quality, to AIIAS worship and chapel services— speakers, programs, music styles, and participants—that reflect the regions of the world church.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH SURVEY AIIAS is dedicated to providing an environment with opportunities for spiritual growth. The Student Association conducted a survey to assess which platforms, programs, and activities help to enhance the spiritual growth of the AIIAS Community of students, personnel, and their families.

INSTITUTIONAL SPIRITUAL Chapel ACTIVITIES Program

48% 67.2%

Week of Prayer

WHAT ENHANCES SPIRITUAL Class Devotional Time

CLUBS/ COMMUNITIES SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES

Chaplaincy Services

34.5%

63%

72.5%

IF YOU COULD ONLY NAME ONE SPECIFIC ELEMENT THAT HAS BEEN HELPFUL TO YOUR SPIRITUAL GROWTH, WHAT WOULD THAT BE?

92.3%

70.7%

Visitation by the community members, pastors, and chaplains Support Groups includes prayer partners and Bible study groups Ministry through church visitiation, off-campus community outreach, serving in church, and music Devotional Life as applied personally, in class, and during chapel programs Week of Prayer a week-long series led by students and visiting speakers

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Wee of k Pra yer

44.5%

56% 60%

54.3%

Miss Out ion rea ch

65%

GROWTH WITHIN THE AIIAS COMMUNITY

87.9 %

Mission Outreach

41.4%

49.2%

STUDENT ASSOCIATION SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES

Communityspecific Outreach

WHAT ONE SUGGESTION WOULD YOU HAVE FOR HOW AIIAS CAN BEST ASSIST YOU IN YOUR SPIRITUAL GROWTH?

53.5 %

House Visitation by the pastor, chaplains, administrators, and off-campus students Small Groups or ministries by support groups, spiritual growth groups, and youth groups Ministry through sabbath afternoon Bible study, youth Bible study, and prophecy program A Variety of Speakers, Programs, and Worship Styles 9

PERSPECTIVE

FEELING GOD’S P IN THIS TIME

Flags asked members of the on-campus community to share how AIIAS has helped to enhance their spiritual life throughout these unprecedented times. Read along to find the perspective shared by our faculty, staff, graduate, and academy students as they described their experiences on what it was like to serve, study, and live on-campus amidst the ongoing pandemic.

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od has amazing ways of making the impossible possible in unexpected situations.

The pandemic came upon us as an unexpected guest and has remained here for over a year now. Life has not been the same ever since its visit. The initial frustration and sadness due to the restrictions in social interactions seemed rational. But God gave us incredible opportunities to “bricolage,” which means adjusting with what we have at hand and using it in creative ways, similar to making a beautiful quilt. What resulted seems to blend with Jeremiah 31:13, “For I will turn their mourning into joy.” Here is a snippet of our—my husband and my—reflections at AIIAS during the pandemic.

t is never easy to keep the soul nourished during a crisis, but the support of a caring community makes a significant difference. I’ve felt privileged to be living on the AIIAS campus throughout this pandemic because it gives me 3SCs: Spiritual Community, Service Opportunity, and Serene Campus.

Spiritual Community. I feel blessed by the devotional life within the AIIAS community, where my spiritual journey gets strengthened through a shared prayer culture. Encouragement and support from friends, online worships, meaningful Bible study meetings, and the daily quiet time with God are all treasured experiences at a place I consider “my Gethsemane.”

The attractive opportunities to watch and listen to powerful messages through online worship almost all the time and listen to inspiring testimonies of friends from different parts of the world through prayer groups have enhanced my spiritual life in undefinable ways.

We have experienced God’s presence this past year like no other time. First, we became more appreciative of the gift of time that He supplies us daily, transforming our personal devotions and family worships into more relaxed, meaningful experiences.

Second, using technology, we connected with family members and community more frequently; the regular Zoom Sabbath services for our family in India (after the AIIAS service, thanks to the time difference) have been a blessing in terms of bonding and spiritual nurture, especially for our grandchildren.

We have also grieved together from afar when loved ones were laid to rest, with the comfort of the hope of resurrection. Third, we have networked with people in unimaginable ways. God’s word, inspirational messages, professional lectures, and workshops came alive even through technology, taking us virtually to people in different parts of the world. Finally, our classes—our biggest concern— soon turned into rather adventurous and creative experiences mediated through various learning management systems. The most satisfying aspects of teaching through these difficult times have been the connections to biblical values and the feeling of God’s hand leading us in each class session, as we are in the business of preparing the next generation of professionals for God’s work on earth. We are grateful that God is still in the business of making the impossible possible.

Service Opportunity. Doing something worthwhile can boost spiritual energy. I believe AIIAS has given me meaningful opportunities to serve by working at the Kingfisher Garden Park and cultivating my own backyard garden. The harvest of an assortment of vegetables and papayas has somehow blessed several families and friends.

Serene Campus. Many people live in a world filled with distractions, interruptions, and noise that deprive them of peaceful moments for more profound spiritual reflection. It is no doubt that AIIAS is the perfect place to revitalize our faith because the campus is blessed not only with beautiful scenery, but much more—with therapeutic tranquility. I am blessed to be getting a daily dose of that therapy.

Maribel Honor is the vice principal at AIIAS Academy. She comes from the Philippines

Prema Gaikwad, PhD, is a faculty member in the education department of AIIAS’ Graduate School.

She comes from India.

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RESENCE AT AIIAS OF PANDEMIC

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ne day, my dad came through the garage door with his usual greeting, “Hello, friends!” Then, as we were preparing lunch, we heard the news: The virus has reached the Philippines. There was going to be a lockdown. I panicked! What to do? Where to go? How to deal with this whole virus thing! Masks? Face shields? Social distancing? Why now? How will I get used to this? How will I survive?!

here are two things constant in life: death and change. With that in mind, this pandemic has indeed brought challenges into our lives as AIIAS students: depression, anxiety, and fear of uncertainty, among others.

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed us under a lot of restrictions, such that it felt like we were being forced into place against our will.

As graduate students in AIIAS throughout the pandemic, the institution has supported our family to enhance our spiritual life as we’ve chosen to find ways geared towards selfbetterment. We found something worthwhile to do with the time we had in our hands, like ministering to our children, spending time and listening and sharing feelings about how we felt during this challenging time, and coping as we decided not to be captive to our fears, but choosing instead to radiate faith and hope inside our hearts. We decided to fill our spiritual needs by worshipping together with our fellow Student Tower D dwellers, and rendering our services to the families that needed either spiritual or financial support.

Well, AIIAS helped me turn my head a little to the bright side. Walking with my friends, I saw all those other people waving and saying “Hello” “How are you?” “Stay safe.”

I was happy to be in such a comfortable environment! When I was sad, I looked outside, and other people were facing the same situation I was in! We had to go through this together!

The campus was always merry. Our Russian community had our own Sabbath worships where my friends and I sang songs, showed skits, and read the Bible. When my best friend moved away, I was very sad! But the good news was that I could attend online school.

Although classes were not face-to-face, it was still lovely to see my friends and classmates.

I started to hang out with my friends from the previous grade. We began to grow closer until we saw each other every day. Our online classes at AIIAS Academy were enjoyable.

We got to participate in virtual weeks of prayers and chapel periods. My class even had a virtual Christmas party. We always start every day with a devotional message, we have a prayer leader, and we can say any prayer request which the class prays for.

My husband and I chose to see the pandemic as an opportunity to exercise several powers: the powers of leadership, patience, endurance, knowledge, acceptance of another person, better understanding our true selves, loving humanity and bestowing forgiveness, and overcoming challenges—using them as an avenue to learn and grow as individuals. Choosing to develop these powers gave us the chance to be modeled after the people God intended us to be.

Spending the time wisely throughout the pandemic has enabled us to diligently write in our prayer journals, as we have a lot to reflect on and be thankful for. The support coming from people around us also made coping so much easier, as AIIAS is led by a loving administration that supports us in every way that it can. The campus managed to provide us with care and help that we wouldn’t experience if we lived outside.

All these things helped me go through this time, and it is still helping me! Thank you, AIIAS, for providing a safe and happy place to be during this pandemic time!

We learned that peace could be acquired by our own choice to surrender to it, instead of dwelling on the bitterness that the pandemic has brought to us. AIIAS played a role in providing us a piece of land where we sow our seeds, enabling us to reap the benefits of mental health, cognitive functioning, and emotional wellbeing. This helped us reduce the chances of depression and anxiety. We felt satisfied and relieved of stress as we deepened our attention to our senses. Indeed, we praise God for the blessing in disguise this pandemic has been.

Veronika Zubkova is a 5th grader at AIIAS Academy.

She comes from Russia.

Cherryl Tante-Burrows Burrows is a Master of Business Administration student in AIIAS’ Graduate School. She comes from the Philippines.

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ALUMNI PERSPECTIVE

ALUMNI

MY FAITH RESTS IN HIM

By Anne Lou Hendriks

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o say no when asked to coordinate AIIAS Sabbath School (SS) Beginner class was not an option. A hectic work-study program to earn a PhD degree at AIIAS was not a deterrent to serve God. As a first batch missionary of the 1000 Missionary Movement, I knew that the more zealous I am for God’s work, the happier and more blessed I will be. And it is true.

Being the Sabbath School coordinator on top of “hitting two birds in one shot” was challenging, especially during the first Sabbaths of new quarters. I would be working late Friday nights and early Sabbath mornings. Alone in the Sabbath School room one Sabbath morning—minutes before a new program would commence—I looked at the load of tasks I had before me. The question, “How can I possibly set up everything before the children start arriving?” was in my mind. I was optimistic, anyhow.

While teaching the class, I recalled the kind lady. She was not in the room—not a visitor, nor a parent of any child. “Where is she?” “Who is she?” “I have never seen her before!” These were the thoughts that ran through my mind.

I tried to look for her during the Divine Service but never found her again, and have never seen her, even until now. I am convinced that she must have been an angel sent by God to help me as I struggled to do the best I could that day.

I graduated in March 2020. I earned my PhD degree and have returned to my teaching field.

Though I encounter different challenges each day, I am never frightened, for I am sure my God who strengthened my faith at AIIAS is still with me, and will be with me into eternity. He will continue to sustain me until I rest in His arms one day. Yes, one day!

Anne Lou Hendriks, PhD,

Just then, a lady with short hair came to peek into the room, toward the area where I could hardly be seen. She offered to help. I just had one question for her, and the rest were instructions. There was little conversation due to the things to do. Eventually, we were set up before any child arrived.

is a Doctor of Philosophy in Education alumna of AIIAS, Class of 2020. She is currently serving as a faculty member at Universitas Advent Indonesia.

OUR TURNING POINT By Aneury Vargas

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he four years we spent at AIIAS had multiple impacts on our lives. Although our intended purpose was to pursue doctoral degrees in our respective areas, we ended up gaining much more than that. We dare not deem these unplanned benefits as by-products, but as the fulfillment of God’s primary purpose for our lives.

There is more. I (Anita) enjoyed singing in groups.

AIIAS gave me the opportunity of praising the LORD with people from several cultures and generations. That was a truly revitalizing social and spiritual experience for me. Our kids developed their musical skills, which they now use to praise God here in the Dominican Republic. At the same time, I (Aneury) was introduced to a new prayer experience by a friend from Ethiopia.

Every year, I had a different partner with whom I prayed each Friday morning before dawn at the prayer garden.

Additionally, our involvement in the AIIAS prison ministry and the AIIAS Adventurers Club taught many valuable lessons.

The social and spiritual blessings we received during our time as AIIAS students continue to impact our lives today.

Allow us to explain.

Before going to the Philippines, we were both very busy church workers with hectic schedules. Family worship was an ideal we achieved only from time to time. Once we were full-time students with predictable schedules, we were able to organize ourselves in such a way that family worship became a serious priority for us.

Although we are back to the crazy life of being full-time workers, we have kept the habit of worshipping together on a regular basis.

AIIAS was a turning point in our spiritual, social, and intellectual lives. We are different workers now. We came closer to our Heavenly Friend while also meeting several friends from around the world, whom we expect to see in God’s Kingdom.

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T E ST I M O N I A L GOD-GIVEN EUREKA MOMENT

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By Watson Mbiriri

ine is an experience of these three elements—spirituality, academics, and mission—seamlessly dovetailing into each other. Let me explain.

Sometime in 2014, after a particularly enriching morning session of the ten days of prayer in the prayer garden, my wife and I went for a walk around campus.

We had done it many times before.

That morning, however, something beautiful happened to me. It was a flash of insight that was as sudden as it was vivid. I stood there, transfixed, as intricate pieces of a biblical puzzle fitted

together before my mind’s eye. We immediately headed home. We were staying in Student Tower G4 at the time. I recall writing several pages as the information came pouring through the tip of that pen. My wife could hardly understand my excitement. I only explained after the flow of ideas ceased, and I was done writing.

I still consider the idea of Israel’s eighth-century prophets as prototypes of the three angels’ messages a novel concept. I went on to share my joy in a chapel session. My dissertation was a small part of that insight. I am now working on a complete elaboration of the whole concept in a work which I believe will shape and influence my ministry and contribute to others’ spiritual edification, by God’s grace. I have always related the insight that morning to the prayer sessions we were all engaged in at that time as an institution.

Watson Mbiriri, PhD, is a Doctor of Philosophy in Religion alumnus of AIIAS, Class of 2019. He is currently serving as the district pastor at East Zimbabwe Conference and as an adjunct lecturer for Solusi University in Zimbabwe and Adventist University of Africa in Kenya.

He comes from Zimbabwe.

WHAT IS IT LIKE LIVING ON THE AIIAS CAMPUS IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC? “It was comforting and convenient.” - Blessing Obaya, Nigeria “Learnt, learning, will be learning new habits wholistically— spiritual, mental, physical, social, etc.—for a better life” - Ranjith Kingston Gladstone, India “I was pleased to see the students working in their gardens and walking with their families around the campus, always respecting the rules of safety and social distancing.” - Julia Paola Garcia Ruiz, Mexico Aneury Vargas, PhD in Religion, and Ana Peña de Vargas, PhD in Business, are AIIAS alumni, Class of 2018, from the Dominican Republic. They are currently serving at their alma mater, the Dominican Adventist University, where Aneury is a full-time professor at the School of Theology and Ana is the dean of the School of Business.

“Living on AIIAS campus during a pandemic can be a “prison” of its kind.

Having been used to frequent interaction with friends, fellowships, and potlucks during Sabbath, physical isolation proved so much draining emotionally, socially, and spiritually.” - Philip Achoki, Kenya “AIIAS has been a buffer or cushion from the full effects of the pandemic.”

- Andrew Bundi, Kenya

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FEATURE

1.

What is the mission of the AIIAS Church?

The mission of AIIAS Seventh-day Adventist Church is to fulfill the mission of Christ in the community. This mission has four dimensions: (1) to serve and glorify God; (2) to nurture, strengthen, and train every church member for service; (3) to reach the perishing with the gospel of Christ; and (4) to foster collaboration between AIIAS, AIIAS Community, and AIIAS Church.

2.

In what ways does the church support the spiritual life of the AIIAS community?

What does the church do to enhance or enrich the spirituality of the community?

3.

The AIIAS Church includes AIIAS community members, but many local church members choose to attend the AIIAS church. How do you balance your ministry to the campus with your ministry to local Filipino members of the AIIAS church?

Balancing ministry to both the AIIAS community and church’s local community members is not easy. The needs of the local members and the needs of the AIIAS community are not the same. It is sometimes difficult to weigh which programs and topics should be prepared so that both will benefit. We have a schedule of visitations for the AIIAS community, church members, and regular visitors who are staying outside of the AIIAS campus. Aside from visitations, I’ve also tried to get in touch with some local Filipino members by teaching in the Sabbath School class. I have tried to connect with some of the members through social media to find out how they are. I’ve organized an online ministry that speaks in our local language so I can minister to them. However, I have to admit that with a big church such as we have, time is limited to successfully minister to every single member.

By God’s grace, we do our best and try to provide what we can to minister to all our members.

The church, through its department heads, provides all the possible services that we can give to the community. Aside from our weekly services (midweek, vespers, and Sabbath services), the church offers programs for children and youth that help them to grow in faith. In addition, we have leadership programs such as Adventurer, Pathfinder, Masterguide, and Pathfinder Leadership Award that trains youth to become more responsible individuals.

The church supports and responds to the spiritual needs of the community by conducting seminars to assist families in dealing with situations that may affect their spirituality. Our adult sabbath school programs provide room for study and fellowship, and we encourage them to organize their own outreach programs.

Our music leaders provide heavenly music and conduct music seminars on music’s relation to our spirituality. Our Women’s Ministries group provides spiritual and moral support to ladies by organizing training sessions to prepare them to be better leaders. The church also promotes a holistic approach to health by providing programs that address health-related needs and better lifestyles. Members are constantly encouraged to participate in church planting, community outreach programs, and evangelism campaigns through their resources, time, and effort. Our team of pastors and chaplains regularly conduct visitations, counseling, and prayers for the community.

During the pandemic, we have shifted our church services and Bible studies online. Prayer groups meet online.

We have depended on the school, AIIAS Student Towers, and groups’ programs by praying for them since we cannot visit them physically.

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4.

In light of the multicultural, multinational campus residents, how would you describe the worship culture at AIIAS?

We try our best to have a representative from each of the communities on our church board to ensure that all will have a voice in the church’s worship style. The church has given every community a chance to showcase their culture’s worship style for the Friday vespers service. However, I’ll be honest that it’s still a work in progress. There is a need for more opportunities for different nationalities to be involved, and in order to do so, they need to be willing to participate and model their worship styles.

The church is open to other worship styles, but since local members from off-campus attend our services, the church needs to be wise and careful.

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE AIIAS CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR

7.

5.

The AIIAS Church is the center of worship for people at AIIAS. Can you talk about how you’ve tried to address that function during the pandemic restrictions?

The pandemic required us to close the physical gatherings of the church. It limited our contacts with people, causing the cancellation of some of our ministries. The major challenge was the adjustment to shift everything online. Many were not comfortable because they were not used to it, but it was the only way we could continue to minister to people. From the church’s perspective, we tried what we could do to ensure that members access an opportunity to grow in Christ. We encouraged stewardship of money by promoting the use of online bank transfers for those residing outside. The church office remained open from Monday to Friday for those who wanted to drop their tithes and offerings. For those who live off-campus, we tried to assist by personally visiting or meeting with them. I started an online ministry to serve the local church members, and I preached three to four times a week to provide avenues for people to hear the word of God.

6.

What are the specific ministries supported by the AIIAS Church within the campus and external communities or members?

What would you say are the top three needs of the AIIAS Church? What are your own dreams for the AIIAS Church?

The church needs Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in everything that it does. But specific needs for it to fulfill its mission are the following: 1. Collaboration between AIIAS and AIIAS Church 2. Sustainable mission outreach and in-reach activities 3. Involvement of the members in in-reach and outreach activities I hope to see the AIIAS church as a place where people are nurtured and discipled and as a resource center that will continue to send missionaries to nearby territories for sustainable ministries in partnership with the local mission.

8.

How can the church members of AIIAS better support the church?

They can support the church by being committed and actively involved in the church’s ministries and services. I pray that members will be more concerned about serving more than how the church can serve them. Even the “Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45).

I believe that the church members can also support the church if we all are united and continue to abide in Christ.

Colossians 3:12-14 says, “As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” With this, surely all will be willing to serve God and others.

The AIIAS Church supports all religious programs led by the church, AIIAS, and the student association. Here are the ministries supported by the church: God’s Food Basket Ministry through the Women’s Ministry, the three prison ministries organized by students of AIIAS, the singles group meetings, and mission outreach in nearby barangays of Biluso, Kalubkob, Bulihan, Riviera, and other areas near AIIAS. The church also provides support to people who are in need by providing moral, spiritual, or financial assistance.

PASTOR JAN ELEXIZ MERCADO 15 15

PREPARING YOUNG LEADERS FOR MISSION

By Shekel Sibala

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o develop young leaders through distinctively Seventh-day Adventist international K-12 education, excelling in spirituality, scholarship, and service.

The AIIAS Academy mission statement, above, guides our day-to-day interaction with our students and our decision-making. Since we are part of the AIIAS community, we adapted the AIIAS mission statement, making small changes to fit our work in the Academy. It reflects what we want to develop in our students as we serve AIIAS, the Adventist community nearby, and the local community.

We acknowledge that the development of spirituality in our children begins at home. So, we work with parents to achieve what is best for their children. As they arrive in our classrooms, we do several things to bring them to Jesus. First, we integrate faith and learning. We believe that our faith should pervade the whole school—from the architecture to the decorations, interactions with our stakeholders, teaching and learning experiences of the teachers and the students, and the services connected with the school. Faith and spirituality are aspects of school life and are part of the foundations of the whole learning experience.

Second, chapel periods are designed to give students the opportunity to use their talents to glorify God and bless others. Each class gets to plan, lead, and participate in a public religious or social program. Students practice standing and performing in front of an audience. Students relish this opportunity.

We didn’t realize the full value of chapel periods until COVID-19 forced us to operate entirely online.

At our first virtual chapel, the quiet

excitement of the students was felt. The students realized—even before we did—that chapel is part of their school experience, and it contributes much to their development. They still miss faceto-face chapel. But even online, chapel programs provide a taste of normalcy, a ray of hope.

Third, the Academy holds a Week of Prayer twice a year. Near the beginning of the school year, a guest speaker interacts with academy students throughout the week. If possible, we have two speakers, one for the elementary division and one for the high school division. Classrooms take turns daily preparing and producing the program that surrounds the speaker. A little past the middle of the school year, we hold the second Week of Prayer. This time our students plan and produce the entire series, including the five sermons. The school picks the theme and subtopics, and the students develop the programs and sermons to bring the topics to life. Classroom advisors mentor their students through this process. During the 2020-2021 academic year, both Week of Prayer programs were entirely online.

A fourth component we had hoped to add this year was student-led mission projects and trips.

However, the lockdowns interrupted that plan. This did not stop our teachers from initiating virtual outreach programs with some of their students and alumni. For example, fourth-grade adviser, Julna Alcantara, initiated an online youth program using Zoom, with some of her present and former students who could not attend their respective local churches because of the lockdowns.

Shekel Sibala is a science teacher at AIIAS Academy.

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While most of these components are common to many Adventist academies, they take on new significance with our unusually high student diversity. This year, our students came from 23 different countries and all continents except for Antarctica. This infuses a global-mission feeling in all our programming.

We will always enact our spiritual development plan in the context of different Seventh-day Adventist cultures, with their varying religious customs and values. This enriches the spiritual experience of our students as they are ministered to by their classmates from around the world.

This gives our students a foretaste of heaven along with a healthy tolerance for the different flavors of Adventism in this vast world. This prepares them to be leaders of deep spirituality and sharp cultural acuity.

news

LEARNING FROM THE EXPERTS: MEDIA, MINISTRY, AND MISSION MASTERCLASS

By Jounaid Sabri

A

IIAS had the privilege to co-host a virtual event, in cooperation with Walla Walla University, in November 2020 on the topic: “Media, Ministry, and Mission.” The event was broadcast live on social platforms and aimed at informing ministers, communication leaders, and media enthusiasts on the media’s potential to spread the Adventist message.

The event was an opportunity for AIIAS to benefit from professionals’ expertise and promote innovative forms of reaching out to a constantly evolving world. As Lynelle Ellis, assistant professor at Walla Walla University, accurately expressed in her introductive presentation to the media ministry, “Having direct communication is important….

However, in today’s world and today’s society, the ability to also do indirect communication to talk with people about the gospel is becoming increasingly important and valuable.”

The sessions were purposefully practical. The presenters provided a wide range of creative advice from initial development steps and preproduction to closing steps of success measurement. They also included a presentation about the top 10 mobile video tips that succeeded in being both accessible and entertaining. The information shared was immersed in a deep concern for understanding the nature of the Christian mission. Paul Dydahl, professor of missiology at Walla Walla University, explained that the definition of mission often tends to be too restrictive in its limitations

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to direct communication, and is mistakenly “focused on preaching well rather than living well.”

Zandritiana Lovanomena, a student from the AIIAS Seminary, said, “The media ministry masterclass was eye-opening for me. I learned how important indirect communication is, such as narrative, nuance, story, or any imaginative indirect form of communication, to convey a hidden meaning to the target audience. It is a tool that I can apply to the ministries that I will participate in once I head back to the mission field.” AIIAS aims to conduct more collaborative events such as this in the future, as technology is a vital resource today.

Jounaid Sabri is a Master of Arts in Religion alumnus of AIIAS, Class of 2021. He comes from France.

AIIAS HOSTS ITS FIRST VIRTUAL ICONFERENCE

By Ingrid Oberholster

DR. LOREN G. AGREY

DR. ANDREA LUXTON

DR. LISA BEARDSLEY-HARDY

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he AIIAS Graduate School hosts a research conference each year in November, bringing together past and present scholars from our institution and our colleagues from other institutions to share their research, start conversations, and strengthen scholarship. The COVID-19 global pandemic made physically hosting keynote speakers and attendees on-campus impossible.

Instead of postponing or canceling the conference, the organizers decided to host the 21st AIIAS International Conference on Business, Education, and Public Health virtually on November 17 to 19, with the theme, “Design Thinking in Business, Education, and Public Health.”

Virtually hosting the iConference meant that both attendees and speakers from all over the world could be included. This year there is a record number of over 650 unique attendees registered from

more than 15 countries. Keynote speakers included Dr. Lisa BeardsleyHardy, director of education of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Maryland, USA; Dr. Andrea Luxton, president of Andrews University in Michigan, USA; Dr. Loren Agrey, president of Burman University in Alberta, Canada; and Dr. John Wesley Taylor V, associate director of education of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Maryland, USA. Although attendees missed out on the social aspect of networking, the conference allowed for more church workers across the world to access the presentations and information.

Many attendees said that the highlight of the iConference was Dr. Taylor’s presentations across the three days about research, finding the truth, and its biblical basis. His presentations were a practical example of the integration of faith and learning.

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DR. JOHN WESLEY TAYLOR V

This year’s iConference reiterated AIIAS’s crucial role in providing professional development for church employees worldwide. “AIIAS exists to prepare leaders, and by having a virtual program, we can reach more leaders currently working in the field and who are unable to come to campus,” said Dr. Danny Rantung, dean of the AIIAS Graduate School and chair of the organizing committee.

The 22nd AIIAS International Conference on Business, Education, and Public Health will be held on November 16-18, 2021. Its theme is “Empowering People for a Better Normal.” Abstracts can be submitted until August 31, 2021.

For more information, email graduateschool@aiias.edu.

Ingrid Oberholster is a Master of Business Administration student in AIIAS’ Graduate School. She comes from South Africa.

REFLECTING ON THE CHURCH: ITS NATURE, MISSION, AND AUTHORITY

By Andrew Bundi

DR. ALEXANDER BOLOTNIKOV

DR. DENIS FORTIN

D

ue to widespread COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the AIIAS Seminary opted for the first time to conduct its 23rd Annual Theological Forum via online means on November 11-13, 2020. The theme “The Church: Its Nature, Mission, and Authority” sparked theological reflection and engagement on the present state of the church. Scholars addressed the subject from theologicalhistorical, biblical, applied, and missiological perspectives.

The first keynote speaker, Dr. Frank M. Hasel, associate director for the Biblical Research Institute, focused on the developments and prospects of understanding the Remnant concept in Contemporary Adventist Theology.

“The concept of the remnant is central to the self-understanding of the Seventh-day Adventist and has played a significant role in our message and mission throughout the years,” he stated.

Dr. Denis Fortin, professor of historical theology and former dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary of Andrews University, presented on church governance in times of conflict. “[In order] to remain

DR. FRANK M. HASEL

healthy and vibrant, an institutional church must engage periodically in self-evaluation and self-critique.”

He explained that the Seventh-day Adventist Church has a hybrid model of the three church governance models adopted by protestant churches since the Reformation, namely Congregationalism, Presbyterianism, and Episcopalism.

Fortin proposed that the episcopal model is dominant in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He concluded by suggesting how the church can deal with the weaknesses that arise from the dominant episcopal model within the church’s structure.

Based on a study of the local and universal church’s idea throughout the New Testament, Dr. Ekkehardt Mueller, associate director for the Biblical Research Institute, addressed how the church today understands the relationship between the local church and the universal church, and its impact on its function. He concluded, “The right balance between the local and the universal, between the local and the worldwide church must be maintained.”

Through a biblical study on the Old Testament understanding of Israel’s

DR. EKKEHARDT MUELLER

constitution as a covenant people, Alexander Bolotnikov, director of the Shalom Learning Center, North American Division-Jewish Ministries, observed that Israel was designed to be a multinational assembly of God’s people and not just an ethnic group.

Drawing further from a reflection on Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, Bolotnikov concluded that being part of God’s church is not an entitlement; instead, those who constitute God’s church are those who accept God’s spiritual reformation in their lives.

In addition to presentations from AIIAS seminary professors and students, the forum was also graced with thought-provoking presentations from faculty Paul Bhaggien from Spicer Adventist University, David Vanlalnghaka Sailo from Pacific Adventist University, Glenn Jade Mariano from Adventist University of Philippines, and Ikechukwu Michael Oluikpe from Northern Caribbean University.

Visit the AIIAS website and follow AIIAS on Facebook for more information regarding the 24th AIIAS Annual Theological Forum on November 11-13, 2021.

Andrew Bundi is a Master of Arts in Religion student in AIIAS’ Theological Seminary. He comes from Kenya.

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and how an individual must be concerned in order to prevent depression and anxiety.

T

he AIIAS Public Health Department continued to push through alternative programs and activities for the Health Emphasis Weekend through virtual interactions with event participants despite not being able to hold the usual activities involving physical gathering (i.e., group exercise sessions, community potlucks, and international food fair to name a few).

“Wellness, Resilience, and Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic” was the central theme of the activities with the aim to reinforce health education, promote mental health, and enable behavior change. In collaboration with the AIIAS Church Health Ministries Department, the public health department held interactive virtual programs through livestream sessions on November 20-22, 2021.

The e event addressed major issues related to how the pandemic has affected one’s overall wellbeing.

Guest speakers, Dr. Torben Bergland, Health Ministries associate director at the Seventh-day Adventist Church World Headquarters in Maryland, USA, emphasized the importance of mental health

Dr. Nathan Edwards, Public Health Doctor of Penang Adventist Hospital, Malaysia, spread awareness on the general information about the COVID-19 pandemic as explained by the perspective of scientists, health experts, and the set recommendations by the World Health Organization on which preventive methods are the most effective against the virus.

Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Director Tom Pignon focused on international response, where ADRA addressed the needs of communities that did not have enough supplies during the lockdown.

Other speakers from within the nearby communities reiterated a deeper understanding of mental health and social support while emphasis on general disease prevention was added. To stay healthy, it is important to maintain an active body through physical exercise, adequate sleep, intake of nutritious food, coping strategies,

and a constant hope in God. To encourage the AIIAS Community to apply these,

the public health department recommended lifestyle-change programs such as NEWSTART and CELEBRATIONS.

CMM Features “God’s Recovery Strategy” A Business Approach

By Philip Achoki

T

he Christ’s Methods of Management (CMM) Seminars are special events to the Business department at AIIAS, and the AIIAS community at large. CMM was pioneered by the AIIAS Business Club (ABC) leadership in 2018.

By integrating faith and learning, speakers who think out of the box help church members and leaders to manage God’s organization and institutions in a more practical and diversified way from a Christian business perspective.

The 3rd CMM seminar was one of its kind. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the event was hosted virtually, thus allowing people worldwide to present and attend this unique series. It also allowed attendees to maintain the Philippine government and the World Health Organization’s health and safety protocols. This year’s theme, “God’s Recovery Strategy: A Business Approach,” was inspired by the year 2020 and all the challenges it brought along with it. The year 2020 was a challenging year across the globe. Everyone was affected in one way or another.

The natural disasters, such as the wildfires in Australia, super typhoons in the Philippines, the COVID-19 global pandemic, and other global challenges have resulted in economic recession.

Businesses and their leaders are

suffering. Their vision and dayto-day operations have been disrupted. Moving forward, they need to implement a strategic plan that will help them navigate the next few years as they recover.

The major issues addressed were the nature of post-pandemic organizations, leadership crisis management, conflict resolution, enhancing preparedness and resilience, and the importance of human resources in ensuring business restoration and continuity.

The importance of preparation and communication was a common factor in most of the presentations.

Guest speakers incorporated their experience and expertise in their presentations. Tom Pignon, ADRA Philippines country director, stated, “Proper planning and preparation prevents painfully poor performance.” Dr. Ronald Vyhmeister, academic dean of Middle East University in Beirut, Lebanon, insisted on the need for an organization to maintain selfawareness and to seek continuous improvement. He pointed out that “perfection is always the enemy of accomplishment.” Hence, we should do what we can instead of waiting until it is perfect before getting started. Regarding human resources, the ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Republic of

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Kenya in the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Sarah Serem, pointed out that “the critical resource in any institution is the human resource. This is the resource that has emotions—it feels, and judges—thus a key focus on this resource is what is important in managing a crisis.” Additionally, Grace Lumowa, owner of Manjo Travel in Indonesia, shared her business’ pandemic experience and stressed the need to “keep the vision alive and seek new possibilities knowing that God will take us through.”

The attendees appreciated the event, saying that it was relevant and timely. Anup Dominic, an attendee and former ABC president, acknowledged that “this year’s event moved online because of the present pandemic situation, yet the beauty of the program was retained.” He also added that the theme of the event was catchy and timely. As shared by Dr. Danny Rantung, AIIAS Graduate School dean, “Crisis is an opportunity for character development that brings successful crisis leaders like Joseph closer to God,”

Philip Achoki is a Master of Business Administration student in AIIAS’ Graduate School. He comes from Kenya.

a virtual conference app that allows attendees to access the webinar videos on their phones up to six months after the event. There were 459 registered attendees with an average nightly live attendance of 40 to 50.

By Abner Dizon

O

n November 29, 2020, AIIAS launched Phase One of an innovative and experimental online evangelism project called Meeting Points.

Running through December 19, 2020, is the first such event to reach secularized non-Seventh-day Adventist professionals in Metro Manila and Western Mindanao, Philippines. The event live-streamed 18 inspirational talks and 23 selfhelp webinars presented by 42 speakers (most of whom are AIIAS faculty, staff, and students/alumni) on life’s relevance, work, relationships, and finding inner peace.

Meeting Points used Whova,

Meeting Points had four goals: 1) Conduct a 3-week online event for secularized city people. 2) Have 500 secularized people attend this online event. 3) Produce 18 contextualized TED-style talks that could be shared with secularized friends. 4) Organize 50 E-care groups with secularized Adventists and non-Adventists. Goals 1 and 3 were reached, but the project could not accomplish goals 2 and 4 because only 36 attendees were non-Adventists, out of the 459 total attendees.

What did we learn from the Meeting Points project? First, it takes much prayer, planning, work, coordination, and encouragement to conduct a comprehensive online evangelism program successfully.

Second, AIIAS has great potential

to reach the secular people even without leaving the comforts of the AIIAS campus! Indeed, AIIAS has the technological, financial, and human resources to continue an online ministry to this unreached people group in the cities. Third, Adventists need to understand secular people and to share the Gospel in a secular-friendly way.

Adventists need to identify and befriend secular non-Adventists.

Adventists need to learn to speak less “Adventist lingo” and to use secular-friendly language.

Meeting Points was inspired by the understanding that secular people are the third-largest unreached “religious” group in the world.

Meeting Points was our effort to connect AIIAS faculty, staff, students, and alumni to secular people who are usually tech-savvy and can understand English. Phase Two, as of this writing, is yet to come.

Abner Dizon, DMiss, is a faculty member in the applied theology department of AIIAS’ Seminary. He is the organizer of Meeting Points.

AIIAS Seminary Launches a Monthly Professional Development Series

T

he faculty of AIIAS is widely known for sharing their knowledge and expertise generously beyond the classrooms.

They fulfill service requests from many parts of the world as they engage with pastors, frontline leaders, and administrators serving at various levels of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

“We’ve had the opportunity to engage, to listen, and to share,” says Dr. Eike Mueller, the associate dean of the Seminary at AIIAS. These interactions demonstrate how AIIAS fulfills its mission, in part, by mentoring and supporting sister institutions and workers in the field.

With travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, service is no longer possible as AIIAS has traditionally done it. “But new tools

By Bruce Sumendap

and resources allow us to do this in a new way,” Mueller continues.

“We ask ourselves, why not continue what we’ve been doing…, and continue that dialogue that we value so much?”

With the help of online technology, the AIIAS Seminary has launched a monthly webinar called the AIIAS Professional Series. The first episode premiered on January 20, 2021, on the topic, “The Biblical Understanding of Sin,” presented

by Dr. Remwil Tornalejo, faculty member of the theologicalhistorical department.

The seminary hopes to meet needs through this professional series.

“This targets pastors and frontline workers in the field looking for additional resources. We want to share useful information”, concluded 22

Mueller. Seminary faculty members speak on a variety of topics. The seminary Facebook page provides links to prior presentations and news of upcoming topics.

The webinars are free of charge and are live-streamed via www. facebook.com/aiiasseminary every second Sunday of the month, at 07:00 PM (GMT+8) Philippine Time. Attendees may hit the like button to receive automatic notifications. Viewers may alternatively watch the webinars via the ‘AIIAS Media‘ channel on YouTube.

Bruce Sumendap, MBA, is the administrator for Public Relations, Alumni and Student Recruitment of AIIAS.

FEATURE

Looking into Money and Spirituality:

A Business Perspective

M

oney is one of the most controversial discussions in some Christian environments. Some denominations claim Christians should not have money. Others would argue that Christians are to have the most expensive car in the market (prosperity gospel) (Doudera, 1985). Yet, others would claim that a person with wealth is not a spiritual person, based on a few biblical incidents where Jesus told His audience, during His sermon on the mountain, that they were to choose whom to serve. He also directed the rich young ruler to share his wealth with those in need, saying, “You can’t serve two

masters…. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24).

“And again I say unto you. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God” (Luke 19:24).

Jesus taught various lessons in the sermon on the mountain, one being a call to follow Him wholeheartedly.

Jesus was never against money or people having wealth as long as they worked hard to get it.

However, God is displeased when money becomes our god.

God warns His people, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). Another god could be anything that takes us away from the presence of God—anything that would greatly occupy our hearts and minds and distract us from Jesus.

By Edivaldo Abel

MONEY AND SPIRITUALITY God is delighted when His children are capable of building wealth.

The Apostle Paul warned the young preacher Timothy about money. He said, “For the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).

Paul never said that money itself was the problem. Rather, it was about the love of money. A person could have money and could fear God wholeheartedly.

The Bible has several examples of businessmen such as Abraham and Job, who had wealth yet feared God. God has people in His church today with wealth who are faithful to Him and His mission. Those men and women are using their earthly possessions to help others and God’s mission. God needs business people as much as pastors to finish His work to preach the Three Angels’ message in Revelation 14. God wants them to use both their money and knees for the advancement of His kingdom.

Reference: Doudera, R. (1985). Wealth, A Biblical Perspective The Teachings of Jesus Can a Christian Have Wealth?

Edivaldo Abel, MBA, is a Master of Business Administration alumnus of AIIAS, Class of 2020. He is a Doctor of Philosophy in Business student at AIIAS’ Graduate School. He comes from Angola.

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The Basket that Never Goes Empty

By Sharnie Love Zamora-Belarmino

I

n addition to the spiritual nourishment in abundance at AIIAS, the campus provides multiple ministries to help those in need within the community and beyond its walls. One of these, a humble project called God’s Food Basket Ministry, has served many of AIIAS’s self-supporting students with fresh produce, groceries, rice, and ready-to-eat food.

joined in collaboration. As one of the means to collect resources, baskets are placed at the AIIAS vegetable market every Friday, where community members can drop off fresh fruit and vegetables. Some AIIAS faculty and students, friends, and friends of friends have continued to support the God’s Food Basket Ministry through cash and in-kind donations.

Dr. Arceli Rosario, one of the founders and sponsoring faculty of the God’s Food Basket Ministry, shares more information about this project and how it has continued to provide throughout and beyond the pandemic season.

“God has provided in many amazing ways”, according to Rosario. “Every Friday there is always something in the ‘basket’.” One unforgettable miracle was God’s provision a few days before the lockdown in March 2020 when one faculty member informed her that she gave money for God’s Food Basket Ministry through the AIIAS Church. When Rosario

Inspired by her mother’s words, “Hunger is a shared experience…

The hunger that you feel is the same hunger that others feel,” Rosario understood at a young age that her hunger felt in a given moment was what many felt on a regular and prolonged basis.

checked, she was amazed at the amount. Why is this so big? she wondered.

A few days later, the announcement of the lockdown came. Then she understood that it was God’s way of assuring her that He cares. With the money, she immediately bought sacks of rice to ensure that there was sufficient supply during the lockdown.

Another experience that Rosario cannot forget took place during the pandemic. She was standing near the rows of food packed in plastic bags.

One recipient came. Peering into the bag he whispered, “Oh, Lord, thank you.” Rosario said she had witnessed many expressions of gratitude, but that one stood out.

“My dream is that this program will be replicated in other places.

My dream is that on school campuses, nobody should be hungry. My dream is that others can also testify that God’s food basket never ever goes empty,” says Rosario. She notes that alumni who took part in the project have in turn started similar programs for self-supporting students in their respective countries.

When Rosario first arrived as a professor at AIIAS, she was inspired by a number of faculty and students who would purchase groceries and cook for self-supporting students who did not have the means to buy food. Influenced by an Andrews University church project called “God’s Abundant Pantry” that served food to those that could not afford to buy food for themselves, Rosario and her students, Evelyn Obo and Girlie Aguilar, felt called to do something similar at AIIAS. On June 8, 2018, God’s Food Basket Ministry began.

The God’s Food Basket Ministry thanks all of the donors for their generosity and prayers. Rosario also thanks the recipients for their joy when sharing their testimonies, saying that the Lord is good and generous, and that His love is amazing.

What started as a family ministry soon involved the wider AIIAS community as the Women’s Ministries

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ALUMNI PENNANTS 2000s NOFRI ZARIAL FATTAH (Master of Divinity, ‘08) is serving as a church pastor at the West Java Conference in Bandung, Indonesia.

He defended his Doctor of Ministry project in October 2020. He now awaits the conferral of his degree.

He shares that he and his family contracted COVID-19 in December 2020 and were placed in hospital isolation for two weeks. They are now all healthy and well by God’s grace.

PATRICK ETOUGHE ANANI (Master of Arts in Religion, ‘06, Doctor of Philosophy in Religion, ‘14) serves as an associate lecturer for the department of theology at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) in Trinidad and Tobago. He is married to LAURISSE ANGELA SOSSAH ELOGAN (Doctor of Philosophy in Education - Curriculum and Instruction, ‘15) who is currently serving as a subject matter expert, developing courses for online classes at USC. They have four children.

IVONNE NDLOVU (Doctor of Philosophy in Business - Accounting, ‘19) is the chairperson of the accounting department of Solusi University in Zimbabwe. She was reappointed for the third time as chairperson in 2020.

Are you an AIIAS Graduate? Your classmates and professors would love to read about what you’re doing and more. Help us to make “pennants” a place to reconnect and update each other.

We are requesting the following information about you:

AURELIE MUKABALISA (Master of Public Health - Health Promotion, ‘11, Doctor of Philosophy in Education - Educational Administration, ‘19) is serving as the director for human resource at the Adventist University of Central Africa in Rwanda.

CRHISTIAN DAVID CARDONA (Master of Arts in Religion, ‘18) is a Bible teacher at Ekamai International School of Seventhday Adventists in Thailand. He is planning to start his doctoral classes in New Testament at KE Leuven University in Belgium in September 2021.

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1. Achievements/promotions 2. Recently published books 3. Professional development 4. Volunteer/mission work stories 5. Ministry involvement stories 6. Experiences in the field of academics or a recent transition that has happened to you or your family.

Kindly supply your complete name, present occupation, and place of work, 100 words maximum. We will notify you if your submission has been selected. Send your entries to flags@aiias.edu or scan this QR code to submit your entry.

ABOUT AIIAS T

he Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) is a graduate-level Seventh-day Adventist educational institution that offers quality education while keeping the tuition very affordable. AIIAS provides four modalities: online learning, distance learning centers (DLCs), on-campus cohorts and full-time programs.

AIIAS is located on a beautiful tropical campus 45.5 kilometers outside of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. This location offers easy access to opportunities for mission trips and community outreach both locally and internationally, especially within the 10/40 Window.

The AIIAS community includes over 300 graduate students from more than 60 countries around the world. The faculty members come from 17 different countries. The teacher-student ratio is low, giving students the opportunity to work closely with their teachers. Typically, a class of 10 students will represent a variety of nationalities, providing access to diverse insights and global perspectives.

AIIAS alumni hold positions of leadership throughout Asia and the world. Alumni serve as teachers, pastors, world church leaders, university presidents, administrators, business executives, NGO leaders, and public health professionals. Many of these alumni have come to AIIAS to build a strong foundation on excellent, world-class graduate education.

THE AIIAS ADVANTAGE In addition to high quality graduate education, there are many benefits to living on a campus filled with fellow students and their families.

“AIIAS provides a wholesome experience by developing each person academically, spiritually, mentally, and physically.”

RECOGNITION & ACCREDITATION AIIAS is recognized by the government of the Republic of the Philippines as a graduate educational institution of international character, as certified by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 2021. The institution and all its programs are accredited by the AAA1.

In addition, the graduate school programs are accredited by PAASCU2 and those from the seminary by ATESEA3.

The Adventist Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges, and Universities of Maryland, USA. 1

Living on campus provides rich cultural experiences among a diversity of friends, thoughts, and activities.

The AIIAS student will meet fellow students from every continent except Antarctica. The diversity allows students to find commonalities and gain knowledge from other cultures.

AIIAS cultivates a family-friendly environment where children of different age groups from various countries interact and freely play together. This develops cultural awareness and appreciation at an early age.

The community allows parents peace of mind about their children’s safety as they focus on studying, for the walled campus has a secure entrance.

The Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities which is a full member of APQN and INQAAHE. 2

The Association for Theological Education in South East Asia which is a full member of WOCATI thereby networked with other regional associations like the ATS. 3

Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies Lalaan I, Silang, Cavite 4118, Philippines

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+63 (46) 414-4318 (Admissions Office) +63 (46) 414-4365 (AIIAS Online)

Why choose AIIAS?

ADMISSION DEADLINES First Semester – Term A July 5, 2021 First Semester – Term B September 13, 2021 Second Semester – Term A December 6, 2021 Second Semester – Term B February 10, 2022

Distinctively Adventist

AIIAS provides an abundance of opportunities for spiritual growth, whether it is through prayer meetings, Sabbath worship programs, or outreach ministries off-campus. There are many other opportunities that allow students to receive a blessing, and be a blessing.

GRADUATE SCHOOL The AIIAS Graduate School develops internationally-minded, service-oriented professionals known for integrity and scholarship in the fields of business, education, and public health.

THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY The AIIAS Theological Seminary prepares mission-driven, professional faculty and other church leaders in a wholistic, multicultural, and collaborative approach to learning. The AIIAS Theological Seminary promotes biblically-informed scholarship, spirituality, and a meaningful field experience.

ENGLISH CENTER The AIIAS English Center takes students through intensive and personalized instruction in the English language in an English-speaking environment.

The English Center approach is aligned with well-recognized English language programs.

ONLINE AIIAS Online delivers quality graduate Christian education that is accessible and affordable through student-centered and contextualized learning experiences for better service to the church and society.

We champion the educational philosophy, teachings, and lifestyle of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and a clear sense of its mission and identity.

Academic Excellence We maintain the highest academic quality, highest accreditation level, and employ outstanding faculty recognized in their field.

Affordable Cost All AIIAS students enjoy the highest quality of education through the benefit of financial subsidy by the Adventist world church.

Exotic Location Dive to undisturbed coral reefs, enjoy unspoiled tropical beaches, or shoot the rapids. All these activities can be enjoyed within a short distance from AIIAS campus.

Mission-Oriented AIIAS, being strategically located in the Philippines, provides greater access to the 10/40 Window for research opportunities and field experiences.

Excellent Supporting Resources An exemplary graduate research library with a collection of more than 70,000 volumes means easier access to a growing gold mine of library resources.

Alumni Impact AIIAS alumni have become well-equipped leaders around the world committed to the church and its mission.

www.aiias.edu online.aiias.edu

facebook.com/aiias twitter.com/aiiasedu instagram.com/aiiasedu

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admissions@aiias.edu online@aiias.edu

Operated by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

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DEVELOPMENT

AIIAS Program Offerings Graduate Education with a Heart for Mission GRADUATE SCHOOL

THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Business

Professional Programs

Master of Business Administration (MBA)* Master of Science in Administration (MSA)* Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business

Master of Arts in Church Ministry (MA-CM)* Master of Divinity (MDiv)* Master of Arts in Ministry (MA-Min) Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Doctor of Missiology/Doctor of Intercultural Studies (DMiss/DIS)

Education

Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)* Education Specialist (EdS) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

Academic Programs

Master of Arts in Religion (MA-R) Master of Theology (MTh) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Religion

Public Health

Master of Public Health (MPH)*

*also offered Online

Experience AIIAS, change your world!

Distinctively Adventist | Mission-Oriented | Affordable Cost Exotic Location | Outstanding Alumni

Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies Lalaan I, Silang, Cavite 4118, Philippines Phone: +63 (46) 414-4318 (Admissions Office)/414-4365 (AIIAS Online) 28

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www.aiias.edu facebook.com/aiias twitter.com/aiiasedu instagram.com/aiiasedu