Grace Notes June 2026 Online Edition

June 2026

Full Color Online Edition:

. . . e Insid

More Than a Trip – Why Short-Term Missions Still Matter have to be honest. I’ve experienced in the past skepticism over short term mission trips. I’ve also heard the critiques from some armchair naysayers, and if we’re honest, some of them sting because they carry a measure of truth. Short-term mission trips can drift into what critics call “mission tourism”—a flurry of activity, a handful of photos, and then a return to comfortable routines. Others point out that local believers are already doing meaningful ministry in their own communities.

Still others raise concerns about paternalism—outsiders arriving with resources, unintentionally reinforcing dependency or superiority.

Those concerns deserve to be heard. They call us to humility, accountability, and intentionality in the way we serve.

But after years of pastoral ministry—and fresh off our recent mission experience in Bolivia—I remain convinced: when done thoughtfully and prayerfully, short-term missions are not only valid; they are vital.

1. Mission Is Not Just What We Do—It’s Who We Become Jesus didn’t simply command us to support mission; He said, “Go” (Matthew 28:19). There is something transformational about stepping out of our normal rhythms and entering someone else’s world for the sake of the gospel. Short-term missions are not primarily about what we accomplish there—they are about what God does in us.

I’ve watched people, including myself, return home with softened hearts, renewed priorities, and a deeper hunger for God. People who once felt disconnected from ministry suddenly come alive. Prayer becomes more urgent. Worship becomes more sincere. Scripture becomes more alive.

In many cases, the greatest mission field impacted is not overseas—it’s the church that comes back home.

2. Exposure Breaks the Laodicean Spell Let’s be honest: it is dangerously easy for the American church to drift into comfort, self-sufficiency, and spiritual lukewarmness—the very condition described in Revelation 3.

Short-term mission trips disrupt that.

When you worship with believers who have less materially but often more spiritually—more joy, more dependence on God, more urgency in sharing their faith—it confronts our

I

assumptions. It exposes our idols. It recalibrates our definition of “need.”

I’ve seen it with my own eyes: people, including myself, who thought they were “rich and in need of nothing” come face-toface with their spiritual poverty—and leave with a renewed dependence on Christ. Sometimes, the greatest gift a mission trip gives is not what we bring to others, but what it reveals about ourselves.

3. Partnership, Not Paternalism The best short-term missions are not about doing ministry for others, but joining in ministry with others. Yes, local believers are already doing the work—and praise God for that. Our role is not to replace them, but to support, encourage, and amplify what God is already doing through them.

When approached correctly: We learn as much as we teach.

We receive as much as we give.

We partner, not dominate.

Healthy mission trips are built on listening, respect, and longterm relationships—not quick fixes or savior mentalities. And often, something remarkable happens: the presence of an outside team—simply because they are outsiders—draws curiosity.

People come. They listen. Doors open that might not open otherwise. Not because we are better, but because we are different.

God uses that difference as a bridge for the gospel.

4. It Shapes the Next Generation One of the most overlooked benefits of short-term missions is its impact on our children and young people. You can teach service in a classroom. You can preach about it from a pulpit. But when a young person sees it—when they serve, pray, build relationships, and witness faith in action—it leaves a mark.

Mission trips create: A lifelong awareness of global need, A personal ownership of the gospel, A pattern of service that often continues at home.

Many of our most engaged church members first caught a vision for ministry not in a sermon, but on a mission trip.

5. It Rekindles the Church at Home When a mission team returns, they don’t come back the same— and neither does the church.

Stories are told. Faith is strengthened. Vision is expanded.

A church that sends people out often becomes a church that: Serves more locally, Prays more fervently, Gives more generously, Engages more intentionally.

In other words, mission doesn’t just happen “out there.” It ignites something in here.

Short term missions aren’t perfect, but neither are local missions.

The question is whether God still uses ordinary people, willing to go, to accomplish extraordinary things—for others and for themselves. And the answer, again and again, is yes.

So we go—not because we are needed more than others, but because we are called. And in going, we often discover that the mission was never just about changing the world.

It was about God changing us.

Page 2 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

11th Hour Choir Trip to Romania Genavieve Belanger I recently went with the 11th Hour Choir all the way to Romania. A couple days before we left for Romania, we found out that our flights had been cancelled! We were very distraught and were wondering if we’d be able to get our flights back. We already had many complications with passports and green cards. This just added to the stress. But God sometimes works in mysterious ways.

We were praying constantly and one day, during 11th Hour class, Mrs. Pettit got an e-mail saying that they got flights for all of us!

Unfortunately, we would have to fly separately on six different flights, but we all got there eventually.

Early the next morning, we sang at a local high school. Although we were really exhausted from the jetlag and only running on 5 hours of sleep, we were excited to be in Romania and praised the One who made everything work out.

During the week we visited many towns and saw lots of people. We were able to see several cathedrals, in which we were able to minister in song to the locals. The natural reverb in the cathedrals helped to amplify our voices. It truly sounded like the angels in heaven were singing along with us!

Towards the end of the week, we sang for kids at a foster home and elderly people at an assisted living center. Being able to minister to them and see the joy on their faces made me realize how important it is to share the talents God has given us to bless others.

Kayla Karolyi Two days before our departure, we learned Lufthansa had canceled 2,700 flights—including ours to Romania. I was scared we wouldn’t go at all and spent lots of time praying. Looking back, God was shifting my focus toward the purpose of the trip and who we would bless rather than my selfish expectations.

Wednesday, April 15: In class, Mrs. Pettit told us we found new flights! Unfortunately, we were split into six smaller groups, including a chaperone, arriving in Bucharest from early afternoon to almost midnight.

Thursday, April 16: The flight was long but we had fun. A woman fainted near where we sat.

Medical staff came quickly; Stanya and I prayed for her. After a few minutes, she was fine!

Friday, April 17: We visited a massive supermarket which felt huge compared to home! We loved walking around, hearing Mrs. Pettit speak in Romanian.

Saturday, April 18: Breakfast at the hotel was incredible—fresh bread, grilled vegetables, and the best éclair ever. Our first performance at a local school felt tired and deflated, but singing with the high school choir was so cool! After resting, we sang at a church, one of our best concerts this year!

Talking with the kids afterward was fun; surprisingly they all spoke fluent English. From the school above the church, we saw a beautiful sunset.

Sunday, April 19: We visited Romania’s government administrative building, which had LOTS of flowers outside, with marble both inside and out. Two of my favorite rooms were pink-themed with magnificent chandeliers. We sang “Even When He is Silent” in a theater inside; the acoustics were incredible. Later, we sang at Mrs. Pettit’s childhood church, but I was exhausted, struggling to stay positive.

Monday, April 20: We explored a traditional village with old Romanian houses by a lake, where I bought a hand-painted egg for my mom. Then we visited Speranţa TV, the Romanian Hope Channel, where we sang “Deep Peace,” and some students were interviewed. That evening, we attended a youth meeting and saw kids from the high school that we keep running into and sang our hardest song for them.

Tuesday, April 21: We toured a historic castle that had served as a royal residence , a Communist meeting place, and a hospital.

We sang in its ballroom, then later in a cathedral down the street Page 3 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

where the acoustics were so beautiful they almost made me cry.

Afterward, we drove to Moieciu, a mountain camp surrounded by snow. Our rooms were stunning, complete with balcony views – my favorite location the entire trip!

Wednesday, April 22: I woke up early and had a quiet devotional outside while it was still snowing. It was peaceful – one of the most grounding moments of the trip.

Thursday, April 23: We visited the salt mines, massive and echoey. We sang “Echo” there, and filmed part of “Hold A Lantern Over Me.” Later, we filmed the rest of it in a dramatic mountain gorge with VERY intense winds. We hiked to a creek surrounded by wildflowers and birds, but we were behind schedule – again – so we left before I would've liked.

Friday, April 24: We visited a foster home for boys and an elderly care center. Though we didn’t stay long, it still felt meaningful. Later, in Târgu Mureș, we explored the town square and tried unique ice cream flavors. We also visited a local farmers’ market where Nyla overpaid for jam and we munched on fresh strawberries.

Saturday, April 25: We performed in a marble church in downtown Târgu Mureș and connected with locals. Our final concert was emotional—many of us cried, realizing it was the last concert for the seniors. That night, we celebrated at a Lebanese restaurant before staying up late laughing and talking.

Sunday, April 26: We visited Peleș Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Romania. It had many similar design features to Biltmore: I bet Biltmore got ideas from there! That evening, we (reluctantly) returned to Bucharest and the airport.

This trip was such a blessing to the people we sang for. Through all the highs and lows, I have seen God’s trustworthy plan play out for us and others. Though at times, it was rough, it was an awesome experience that I and the 11th Hour members will recall fondly for the rest of our lives.

Seth Kim It feels like just yesterday when we embarked on our tour to Romania. Despite a major flight complication, through many prayers we were able to arrive safely in the beautiful city of Bucharest. Even with minimal sleep and a seven-hour time change, we fought through our exhaustion and were able to sing on Sabbath for the local Adventist high school. There, we met the students and made new acquaintances.

Throughout the week, we traveled through many cities and visited numerous cathedrals and churches, many of which gave us the privilege and opportunity to sing and share our ministry. Several castles were also on our agenda, such as Bran (also known as Dracula’s Castle), Peles, and Cantacuzino. It was truly amazing to witness the architecture and hear the backstories of these grand dwellings. Everywhere we went, the views surrounding us were breathtaking. Whether it was the snow-dusted trees of the Carpathian Mountains, the flowing valleys, or the incredible sights in the salt mines, Romania was full of beauty.

The housing and hospitality we received throughout our many stops were truly special. Whether we were staying at conference campsites or in a hotel, the food and service were incredible. We were warmly welcomed and treated as more than just guests. If not for the gracious service of our various hosts, our trip would not have been the same.

It’s incredible how quickly our trip to Romania flew by. It felt as though, in no time at all, we were performing for the last time. There were final photos, goodbyes, and tears, and soon we were off to the airport. By the grace of God, we all arrived safely back at Fletcher Academy in one piece. This tour was a journey that will always remain in our memory and an experience we will never take for granted.

Nyla Darnell On Tuesday evening before our trip began, Mrs. Pettit, our choir director, emailed us that our flight from Atlanta to Frankfurt, Germany, had been canceled. The next day, Mrs. Pettit said we were going to fly on the original date, but our group of 40 would be on five different flights through Paris, London, and Athens. God was telling us that our trip may not go as planned, but He had it in His hands.

Page 4 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

On Thursday morning, all 11th Hour members and chaperones gathered at the chapel with their luggage, bags, and smiles. We were bursting with excitement for this trip. After many hours on the bus, waiting in the airport, flying on our five different flights, we came together in Bucharest. We were jet lagged, hungry, and tired, but we were so thankful that God had provided for us and we were safe.

On Sabbath morning, 11th Hour went to a church where about 500 high schoolers attended. Although only 180-200 students were there, we were still jet lagged and nervous and happy for the smaller attendance. We sang through our song repertoire, a student introducing each song beforehand, being translated into Romanian.

At the end of our performance, the pastor gave Mrs. Pettit a huge, beautiful bouquet of flowers, and their choir of over 150 students sang for us, which made 11th Hour feel so special and appreciated. The Romanian director also told us that his choir knew our last song, “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and they wanted to sing it with us, which was a wonderful experience. The Romanian youth and adults were so kind and friendly, and the 11th Hour students made friends very quickly.

The weekday’s activities comprised visiting historic buildings, cathedrals, towns, and castles. We visited Mrs. Pettit’s childhood home church in Bucharest where she and her parents attended. She told us about, as a young girl, playing “Harul Tău Minunat” on the piano, a special Romanian choir number we learned this year. We sang this piece while Mrs. Pettit accompanied us, just as she had done many years ago.

It was a special moment not to be forgotten. On the same day, 11th Hour toured the Hope Channel of Romania, known as Speranţa TV. Nervous but excited, the choir was recorded in their main room singing “Deep Peace,” to be broadcasted on TV. Visiting the Romanian Hope Channel, I was inspired to see how Adventists, like us, practice their faith in their own language, making our global church feel more real and united.

After staying in Bucharest four days, we drove up into the hills to Cantacuzino Castle, where we sang “Even When He is Silent” in the ballroom. After leaving the historic mansion and driving over the mountains, we reached the beautiful, old town of Brașov, personally my favorite city. We walked to the Black Church, a beautiful cathedral with high, arching ceilings. We sang in this basilica, and the acoustics were incredible. Although the day was rainy and cold, we all greatly enjoyed the experience.

In the middle of the week, we stayed at two different Adventist summer camps. At each one, the hospitality and kindness of the hosts was wonderful. Thirty-two American teenagers marched in as strangers and were welcomed with loving arms, warm smiles, and delicious homemade food.

To our surprise, it snowed at one of the camps.

I sat outside for breakfast and contemplated the mountain grandeur and the splendor of newly fallen snow while thinking about how God speaks to us through the stillness of life. The beauty of the blanketed trees and smoke rising from quaint chimneys was another reminder that God was with us and blessing us on this trip.

After traveling through mountains, towns, and meadows, we reached Cheile Turzii, a national nature reserve featuring a 1,000-foot deep canyon.

Here 11th Hour filmed our music video among the high stone cliffs, the flowing river, and green verdure. We also visited Salina Turda, a salt mine turned into a tourist attraction, where we filmed part of our music video, with shining lights and a dark lake in the background.

Friday was the most touching day. After leaving the Adventist center, we drove to a small foster home where around 15 mentally disabled or troubled boys lived. Even with the language barrier, we brightened their day and gave them some love through our singing, smiles, hugs, and highfives. Afterwards, we visited a nursing home for the elderly and sang for them. Once again despite the language barrier, they were blessed with God’s love through the music.

On our second Sabbath in Romania we visited the town of Rhegin where we performed three times. And again, 11th Hour, the Fletcher staff, and chaperones were showered with hospitality. They graciously welcomed us into their churches, providing us a massive potluck of authentic Romanian food which we all greatly enjoyed and appreciated.

Only God knows how many people He blessed through our music. And I, for one, was spiritually strengthened from this trip. I will always treasure the 11th Hour choir trip to Romania and the memories we experienced together. For now, pacea domnului - May the peace of the Lord be with you.

Page 5 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

church” site, was the most established of our sites but was also in need of spiritual revival and growth. And finally, in Montecillos, our team did some construction by installing doors and windows in the church building that was half way constructed but already being used by the local congregation.

At Monticellos we held a free mega clinic where we saw almost 200 patients in one day. We were joined by doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals from all over Bolivia to provide services such as an eye clinic,

By Dan Reynolds dental clinic, physical therapy, cardiology, pediatrics, orthopedics, general medicine, spiritual care, and health he Arden SDA Church was blessed to partner with screening exams. Many people who came had never Quiet Hour Ministries to go on an incredible seen a doctor before and had walked for many miles to mission trip to the ruggedly beautiful country of Bolivia get to the clinic. It was an exciting day to witness the in March, 2026. Twenty-five mostly Arden church right arm of the gospel in action. members finally made it to the small city of Aiquile after During the 10 days we were in Bolivia, we held four a long and grueling 36+ hour trip by car, plane, and bus. additional free clinics at each meeting site and saw a total Aiquile is nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains of 465 patients and handed out 279 glasses. amid a semi-arid climate at 7,000 ft elevation. The high God worked mightily at all of our sites! It was exciting elevation initially caused several of our team members to to work with the lively, sweet children where we sang feel some effects of the altitude, but most eventually songs, told stories from the Bible, taught the children adjusted well. about the love of Jesus, and did some fun crafts. In the Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South adult meetings, we taught better ways of living through America, with varying topography from lofty simple lifestyle changes during our health talk mountainous steppes to the hot and humid jungle sessions. Every night, we presented a sermon centered plains. The people in Bolivia are warm, welcoming, and on the love of Jesus and taught many biblical truths, profoundly resilient. Their simple and peaceful leading many to accept Jesus as their personal and loving community-centered way of life was refreshingly Savior. We had up to 170 adults and 137 children per different from our rushed and individualistic night in attendance across all 5 sites. It was incredible to lifestyle. Yet spiritual hunger can be found all over see so many people excited to learn about Jesus. And on Bolivia. While the church there is growing and active, the final Sabbath we had a beautiful joint service for all most of the people we encountered knew little of Jesus’ of the sites where we were blessed with wonderful music love and had never read the Bible for themselves, much and fellowship. We saw many give their hearts to Jesus less held a Bible in their hands before. and be baptized. To date, 35 people have been baptized Our primary goal while in Bolivia was to share the love with more studying with the Bible workers and the local of Jesus in action through holding evangelistic series, pastor. children’s meetings, and health talks, as well as doing Bolivia certainly captured our hearts. We praise God for construction and hosting free clinics. A group of a safe and rewarding trip where the team members were dedicated Bolivian translators and Bible workers joined spiritually enriched and inspired by seeing God working us to complete the team. We had five evangelistic sites in through them to minister to the Bolivian people. total, two in Aiquile and three in the surrounding towns and villages.

The site furthest from our hotel was the town of Mizque, approximately a 45minute van ride one-way along winding mountain roads. In Mizque, we helped to construct a children’s Sabbath School building next to the church. Conversely, the new church plant of Aiquile North site could be walked to from where we were staying. At another site, in a small community called Tipajara, it took a rough dirt road and a trek across a creek each evening to get to the church where the meetings were being held. Here we saw wild parrots flying above the trees around the village. Aiquile Central, the “mother

Arden SDA Church to Bolivia T

Page 6 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Deepest Dark, Highest Hope

by Elizabeth Kendrick

salm 57:1 says, “Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.” Just as David fled from Saul, so I fled from God, although for different reasons and under different circumstances.

In March, I had the privilege of going on the Reformation trip with Chris Small and Fletcher Academy. What a life changing experience it was!

Visiting the Waldensian Valleys of Italy, we hiked to one of the caves where some of the faithful Waldensians hid and were persecuted. Inside the cave, some of the students sang beautiful songs and our tour guide encouraged us to pray either individually or with a prayer partner.

Leading up to this point of the trip, I had already decided that I was on the trip only to sightsee across Europe and take beautiful pictures. I had zero intentions of connecting with God. You see, I had a “tug of war” relationship with God. Yes, I loved God, but I still did not trust that He really had my best interest at heart, nor did I believe that He really loved me. Many situations in my life had led me to this conclusion.

Most recently, it was my son’s medical diagnosis, among other personal situations. Before the trip, I had been wrestling with anger and frustration with God. I had so many questions unanswered.

“Why did You allow this to happen to my son? Or to me? If You really cared about me this would not hurt so much or this wouldn’t have happened. What have I done wrong in my life to deserve this? You must love others more than You love me for You to allow these situations to happen to me.” These thoughts would pop in my head almost constantly. The more energy I gave these thoughts, the more anger I had.

P

Back in the cave, it was cold, damp from the rain, but at the same time very peaceful. During the songs, I recall thinking to myself, “I wish this would hurry up so I can get out of here!” God had different plans. Very different plans.

When the prayer time came, I remember thinking, “I am going to pray just to get this over with.”

I began to pray, but this time it was different. I prayed with a level of sincerity that I have never had before. At the same time, one of the other staff members on the trip approached me and asked if they could pray with me. We started to pray together and I began to just cry. I could not even speak as the staff member was praying: only tears. I sobbed and sobbed throughout the entire prayer time. I cried from deep pain, deep hurt, deep anger. When I could sob no longer, I prayed and gave everything to God. In that cave in the remote valleys of Italy, I committed to God that I would no longer burden myself with worry, hurt, and pain that I had no control over.

Of course Satan tries to push that back onto my side of the table from time to time. But when that happens now, I push the plate of worry, hurt, pain, and anger to God and ask him to take care of it. That sounds much easier than it is. I believe “plate sliding” is something that has to be practiced over and over, repeatedly, until it becomes second nature.

This doesn’t mean I don’t have hard days. It doesn’t mean that I don’t have a temptation to worry about hard, challenging times or that I don’t wrestle with anger and anxiety, because I do! I’m human! But when I emerged from the cave, I had gained a spiritual awakening and commitment to God like I’ve never had before.

I truly began to see God through a new lens.

My encouragement to you is this: don’t give up on God; He never has and never will give up on you! He truly does value each of us and He truly has our best interests at heart. The cave taught me that I can give everything to God; that’s exactly what I did that day! I left it all in the cave and emerged a completely different person spiritually, mentally and emotionally. Thank God for rescuing me from the deepest dark to the highest hope!

Page 7 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Signs of a Happy Child

by Alyssa Hunt, Loma Linda University Health (edited by Max Hamonds)

hat does it mean for a child to be truly happy? Happiness in children is not about constant smiles or an absence of struggles – it is an emotional state characterized by contentment, joy, and other positive feelings.

A child’s happiness has a direct impact on their emotional and physical health. Happy children tend to perform better academically, develop stronger social bonds, and exhibit high self-confidence. Conversely, children who struggle with happiness may experience anxiety, difficulty forming relationships, or physical health issues such as sleep disturbances and digestive problems.

Jennifer Minami, MD, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Loma Linda University Behavioral Health, says that a happy child experiences a full range of emotions that are appropriate to different situations, such as the feeling of joy when good things happen, sadness during loss, and anger when things seem unfair. The key is the intensity and timing of these emotions.

Additionally, Minami says that a happy child can typically answer the question, “What do you like about yourself?” with confidence since they are securely attached, self-assured, and well-adjusted in school, at home, and in social settings. While a happy child demonstrates a mix of positive emotions and resilience in the face of challenges, it can still be challenging for parents and caregivers to identify and nurture happiness in their children.

Minami addresses seven key indicators of a child’s happiness as well as strategies to nurture a child’s well-being.

Seven Signs of a Happy Child #1 – Smiles, Laughter, and Excitement about what they do day-to-day: A child who frequently smiles, laughs, and shows enthusiasm about daily activities, whether during school, playtime, or spending time with family, demonstrates contentment and emotional well-being. #2 – Positive Self-Esteem: Children who recognize and feel proud of their accomplishments, strengths, and skills tend to feel secure and valued, which contributes to their over all happiness.

W

#3 – Good Sleep Habits: When it comes to sleep, happy children tend to follow a consistent bedtime routine and have developed self-soothing skills, such as using a favorite blanket, calming music, or white noise to fall asleep. #4 – Healthy Appetite: Appetite is an important indicator of emotional stability. Since the gut often reflects emotional wellbeing, happy children typically have a healthy appetite and a well-functioning digestive system. #5 – Enjoys Socialization: A happy child finds pleasure in spending time with family and friends. As they grow, their social preferences evolve, shifting from family-centered interactions to peer-focused connections. Young children typically prefer the company of the primary caregivers, such as parents, grandparents, or babysitters. As they start school and begin making friends, while those friendships become important, the primary adult figures in their lives are still their preferred “home base.” In adolescence, children start to desire more independence and privacy from the adult figures. Minami emphasizes that this is a normal part of development where a child’s focus shifts to spending time with friends. #6 – Engages in In-person friendships: For older children, social media is a significant part of modern interactions. A happy child still prioritizes face-to-face friendships. In-person socialization helps build crucial emotional skills like conflict resolution and empathy. #7 – Handle Setbacks: Life is not always fun, easy, or happy. Welladjusted children have the resilience and skills to manage when things are difficult or don’t go the way they expect. When faced with minor disappointments, happy children can adjust and move forward rather than react with excessive distress.

It’s important to acknowledge and make space for a range of emotions from a child so that they can openly express and learn to manage their emotions.

– Limit interruptions: Validate a child’s feelings by listening, not interrupting. We can allow a child to say they are sad or upset without necessarily agreeing with their reasons. But it shows that we can listen and hear their perspective.

– Understand: Seek to understand a child’s perspective rather than correcting or blaming them for their emotions. Instead of blaming them for a bad grade, we can say, “Tell me what made it hard for you to study for this class.”

– Foster in-person interactions to build confidence in social situations: Making and maintaining friendships involves managing introductions, minor rejections, awkward moments, and conflicts. Children need the practice – just as adults do. This is best done in person. It’s important to create opportunities for children to learn these skills through in-person peer relationships. And parents can provide support and help to navigate these situations.

Page 8 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Tofu Bibimbap Korean-inspired colorful bowl of seasoned tofu and vegetables

Servings per recipe: 4 Prep Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Cook Time: 5 minutes 3 Cups of Brown Rice

2 tsp Sesame Oil

1 Cup of Carrots, julienned

3 Cups Shiitake and Enok Mushrooms

4 Cups of Baby Spinach

4 Tbsp Tamari Soy Sauce

2 Cups of Bean Sprouts

2 Tbsp Mirin

1 Cup of Corn Kernels (grilled optional)

¾ tsp Salt

3 Cups of Zucchini, quartered and sliced

2 Tbsp Seaweed Strips

4 oz. of firm Tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes

Sprinkle Black and/or White Sesame Seeds

Sauce Ingredients: 4 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean Fermented Red Chili Paste) 1 ½ tsp Mirin

1 Tbsp Honey

½ tsp Sesame Oil

1-2 Tbsp Water (to dilute the gochujang)

Directions Boil rice in 3 quarts salted water for about 30 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside to keep warm.

Vegetables: cook each separately in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little salt and sesame oil as needed to each, setting each aside when done before using the same pan to cook the next.

Tofu: cook in a hot skillet without stirring until brown, then turn and brown the next side, and so on until browned all over.

Mushrooms: cook with soy sauce and mirin and continue cooking until the liquids are absorbed and mushrooms are softened.

For the sauce, place the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until no lumps remain. Add enough extra water to achieve the consistency of warm honey.

To serve: place a layer of warm cooked rice on the bottom of a wide bowl or plate. Arrange the prepared vegetables and tofu on top of the rice. Pour 1-2 Tbsp of sauce over the tofu and other ingredients as desired. Garnish with seaweed and sesame seeds and enjoy!

Page 9 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Challenges Will Make You Stronger I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13 NKJV

Sometimes we don’t like to do things if we don’t think we can do them well or do them easily. But doing things that challenge us and that get us out of our comfort zone helps us grow, learn, and improve.

Can you think of a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone to accomplish something that was difficult for you? Describe it. _____________________________________________________________________________ What specific elements made that task more difficult to accomplish? ____________________________________ Learning new things is a part of life. Remember learning to read or to ride a bike? We should try to look at challenges that are presented to us as opportunities to improve. It may be hard to stand up in front of the class and give an oral report. Afterward, we may be more confident, or know what we could change to do better next time, or learn that we enjoy it. We may now be able to empathize when other people face the same challenge. Everything we do is an opportunity to learn.

Name one life lesson you learned when you attempted something outside your comfort zone. _________________ How has that lesson impacted you throughout your life? ______________________________________________ Usually, if we want something, we must go through many challenges to obtain it. Living a life in fear of being uncomfortable, we won’t accomplish much, and we won’t be nearly as happy. Do you think it was easy for the disciples to preach the Word to strangers when they were sent out two by two? ___ Why not?_________________ They were likely second-guessing their ability to do it and would have found it easier to just go home. But they knew that wasn’t their assignment. They knew they must push ahead to get to where they wanted to be.

Name a task or activity that you have been putting off because it seems too hard to do. ______________________ What makes it seem to be such an impossible task? __________________________________________________ When we feel like staying in our own little box, not stretching ourselves beyond our perceived limits, we should talk to God and lean on Him for encouragement and understanding. The Bible says God is with us wherever we go. We can be sure He is there in all our trials and challenges.

Who or what helps you when you face a challenging task? ____________________________________________ What could you do to make it easier to get through these tasks? ________________________________________

Page 10 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Our family focus this month features Glenn & Jean Cutchens. They have been members of the Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church since 1979.

Glenn lived in Georgia until the 7th grade before moving to Florida. He was unexpectedly born in Ocala, Florida while his parents were visiting grandparents.

Glenn has eight siblings.

Jean was born in Ashburn, Georgia but grew up close to Gainesville, Florida. She comes from a large family of twelve siblings including some half-siblings and some step-siblings.

Glenn learned his trade in auto body repair as a teenager from his brother-in-law, later taking classes in auto body work to further his knowledge. He worked as an Auto Body Technician for thirty years. Unfortunately, due to a back injury in 1995, he had to take early retirement.

Jean worked as a hairdresser for many years in Florida. On moving to the Hendersonville area, she went to Blue Ridge Community College and received her Associate’s Degree in Nursing and worked as an RN until retiring in 2010. She went back to work as a CNA instructor at AB Technical College and retired two years ago from that position.

Jean and Glenn met when she was in the seventh grade and Glenn was in the twelfth grade. Later when Glenn graduated from high school, they saw each other at a square dance. He recognized Jean and asked her to dance. They began dating and three months later they were married while Jean was a high school senior!

Once married, Glenn was almost drafted to serve in the Viet Nam War, but at that time they did not accept a man who was married. After they had their first child, he could have been drafted again, but at that time the rules changed, and they did not accept someone who had children. Jean says that “she saved him twice!”

While they were expecting their second son, they were both introduced to the Adventist church. Jean took Bible studies and joined the Jennings Lake SDA church in Bell, Florida when their son was three months old. Glenn took Bible studies later and joined the church at that time. Jean said the Lord truly worked in their lives, and the Adventist church really helped their marriage to grow and thrive.

Jean and Glenn have been married for 62 years. They have two sons, one adopted daughter, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. After they were married, they lived in Orangeburg, South Carolina for a few years, and then at the recommendation from a friend in Florida, in 1979 they moved to Western North Carolina so their children could attend academy.

Glenn’s hobbies include “tinkering” on cars and gardening. Jean’s hobbies include walking, painting, reading, and gardening. She also continued working for a while as a hairdresser in her spare time in her home. They both love to spend time with their grandchildren. They have also been on several mission trips, including Africa, India, and Costa Rica. They also enjoy yearly trips to see family in Florida at Thanksgiving.

After moving to this area, they visited the Arden Seventh Day Adventist Church and felt it was the friendliest church they had ever visited. They joined and have been members ever since. They now enjoy attending Raymond’s Sabbath School class.

We are so glad to have the Cutchens as part of the Arden church family!

Page 11 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church Is a Safe Place to Grow.

Our Purpose is, by God’s Grace, to reflect His character in our community, to demonstrate a quality of life that will attract all to be reconciled to Jesus Christ, and to encourage people to become His loving, maturing disciples.

Grace Notes Editorial Staff: Max Hammonds ..........................................Editor Chris Small ...........................................Columnist Jean Davey ............................................Columnist Max Hammonds ..............Reporter & Columnist Pen Braister-Sturgis.................................Reporter Sara McCord............................................Reporter Dan Reynolds ..........................................Reporter Arizona McCord ............Reporter & Proofreader Chris Small ................................Special Graphics Jim & Carolyn Sullenberger ............ Proofreaders Nolan Darnell ....................Mailing Management Shirley Wallstrom .............. Circulation Manager Whitney Barron............................. Layout Design Comments, suggestions and praises are always welcome. Please email or contact the church office.

Services each Saturday morning: Sabbath School Bible Study, 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service, 10:45 a.m.

Location: 35 Airport Road, Arden, NC 28704 Located on Highway 280, (Airport Road), 1.5 miles east of I-26 exit 40, and a quarter mile west of Highway 25.

Church Office: Office Manager: Sharlene Bliven Office Secretary: Summer Cronin Telephone: (828) 684-6700 Email: office@ardenadventist.org Website: www.ardenadventist.com Office Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs.,9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Arden Adventist Pastoral Staff: Senior Pastor: Eric Bates, D. Min. Email: ebates@carolinasda.org Associate/Youth Pastor: Rich Maskelony, M .Div. Email: rmaskelony@carolinasda.org Grace Notes is published monthly by the Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church. Subscription is free by calling or emailing the office. †Do you have questions about what Adventists believe? Would you like to become a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Would you like to study the Bible? You are invited to attend a Pastor’s Bible Study Class. Please call for location and time. All are always welcome. † Disclaimer—The contents of Grace Notes, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained in this magazine of the Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church are for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider, who is knowledgeable and experienced in the use of specific medical or Lifestyle Medicine interventions, or about questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice, or delay in seeking it, because of information published in this magazine. Neither Grace Notes nor the Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church recommend or endorse any specific tests, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned in published articles.

Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.

If you have a medical emergency, call your healthcare provider or 911 immediately.

Arden Adventist

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 80 Arden, NC 28704

GRACE N TES A Magazine for Sharing God’s Love In Our Community

Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church 35 Airport Road Arden, North Carolina 28704 (828) 684-6700 If you no longer wish to receive Grace Notes, or if your address has changed, please contact us.

24t Annua Summe Camp Pogra

Looking for Summer Fun?

D

GO

UT

ABO

LEARNING

FUN

A ‌ G ‌ ‌ L F Camp 2026

Ages 5-12 5-12‌ June 15 - July 31, 2026 2026‌ Open House: Thursday, June 11, 5-7pm 5-7pm‌ Register Online Today!

EN

FIELD TRIPS

NT

RICHME SS CLA ES

35 Airport Road Arden 28704 www.ardenadventist.org

CRAFTS GAMES EXPERIMENTS

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

A LIGHT THAT NEVER FAILS If you should meet a person happy with his life, or joyful in her story, you’ve likely met someone experiencing the deep security of living in the grace of God. He can look upon the rubble of his past with clarity but without shame—for he has found the liberating power of forgiveness. She can candidly assess the threats and stress the future may portend without the customary fear: her “life is hid with Christ in God” (Col 3:3).

They do not take themselves too seriously, for they are quick to tell that all they have and all they are is given them in mercy.

You watch them pour themselves into the broken, fear-filled lives of those around them, for grace never was for them alone. Their peace shines like a steady and unblinking light in all the aching darkness.

Mark them well, for this is who you want to be—who you can be—by saying “Yes” to grace.

“Since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us” (Rom 5:1).

And when your life is also glad and free, you’ll stay in grace.

-Bill Knott

Page 13 | www.ArdenAdventist.org

IN THE BEGINNING In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the face of the waters.

Genesis 1:1, 2

T D A R K N E S S S R E T A W FIND THESE WORDS S B B D E T A E R CM R W B E

Beginning Heaven

L J F C O M O H G E N H E B R

Created

Moved

X N A U O A U N V O M H P K L

Creation

One

P F O T T L W E P I E R C Z T

Darkness

Over

Y D N U S L Q U A A P R O U K

Deep

Spirit

U G E H R Q F A V R E WO F D

Earth

Surface

D W N D I S Z E N A T H CU E

Face

Upon

I R G I F J N S T H T H L C C

First

Void

O D O Z N KN I S I D I K A A

Form

Waters

V R D X F N O L W P S Q H W F

God

Without

X P E U Y N I K D S I R C W R S W Q V X V T G E D F R A P U Y S Q I O Y E W E L R D I H S L M O V I N G L P B I D O T T Page 14 | www.ArdenAdventist.org