Columbia Union Visitor--July/August 2023

July/August

The Visitor is printed bimonthly and is the official publication of the Columbia Union Conference for the constituents of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Mid-Atlantic area. Our mission is to provide news and information, inspiration for effective ministry, and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help engage members in experiencing the mission.

Editor and Publisher n Kelly Butler Coe

Managing Editor for Print n Ricardo Bacchus

Managing Editor for Digital Media n V. Michelle Bernard

Art Director and Designer n Kelly Butler Coe

Advertising and Circulation Manager n Sandra Jones

CONTACT n (410) 997-3414 n visitor@columbiaunion.net columbiaunionvisitor.com

FOLLOW US n facebook.com/columbiaunionvisitor n twitter.com/visitornews instagram.com/columbiaunionvisitor

SUBSCRIBE n To subscribe, change address or discontinue Visitor mailings, please visit our website and click on the subscription tab.

PUBLISHING BOARD n Dave Weigley (chair), Kelly Butler Coe (secretary), Jorge Aguero, Emmanuel Asiedu, Tim Bailey, Celeste Ryan Blyden, Marvin C. Brown, III, Bob Cundiff, Gary Gibbs, Jerry Lutz, Marcellus T. Robinson, Charles A. Tapp

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Allegheny East n LaTasha Hewitt, visitaec.com

Allegheny West n (vacant), awconf.org

Chesapeake n Evan Knott, ccosda.org

Mountain View n Liz Bailey, mtviewconf.org

New Jersey n Stephen Lee, njcsda.org

Ohio n Francis Tuffour, ohioadventist.org

Pennsylvania n Tamyra Horst, paconference.org

Potomac n Debra Anderson, pcsda.org

Blue Mountain Academy n Esther Hernandez, bma.us

Highland View Academy n Rob Gettys, highlandviewacademy.com

Lake Nelson Adventist Academy n Ashley Boggess, lakenelsonacademy.org

Pine Forge Academy n Tracey Jackson, pineforgeacademy.org

Shenandoah Valley Academy n Janel Haas Ware, shenandoahvalleyacademy.org

Spencerville Adventist Academy n Heidi Wetmore, spencervilleacademy.org

Spring Valley Academy n Vicki Swetnam, springvalleyacademy.org

Takoma Academy n Shaun Robinson, ta.edu

Kettering College n Rebecca Ingle, kc.edu

Washington Adventist University n Everett Wiles, wau.edu

Adventist HealthCare n Anne Biggins, adventisthealthcare.com

Kettering Health n Christina Keresoma, ketteringhealth.org

WGTS n Lisa Krueger, wgts919.com

My Kind of Vacation!

I am a product of Vacation Bible School (VBS).

When I was young, my home life was difficult. My parents weren’t spiritual, nor did they have a religious affiliation. Longing for something I felt was lacking, I was curious about God’s existence. One day, my neighbor invited me to VBS at her church. For the first time in my life, I heard about a Man on a cross who loved me very much!

Forty years later, I treasure that beautiful encounter with my Savior. At my current church, I have a passion for VBS; seeing new faces from my neighborhood is always an amazing experience.

During the pandemic, my church held a virtual VBS. A young boy tuned in whose mother recently died of breast cancer. He had never heard about Jesus nor owned a Bible, but through VBS, he was able to have an encounter with Jesus. Today, he is an Adventurer at my church, and his grandmother is a regular visitor.

Virtual VBS impacted two other kids in the neighborhood. As a result of their participation, their mother recommitted her life to Jesus, and the family now attends my church and Adventurer club. We are praying that “Dad” will soon join them.

This summer, I encourage you to embrace the opportunity to share Jesus in your community through the ministry of VBS. Is it hard work? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 18:14 that “it is not My heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish” (NLT).

The Columbia Union Conference coordinates the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s work in the Mid-Atlantic United States. We provide administrative support to eight conferences; two health care networks; early childhood, elementary and secondary schools; a liberal arts university; a health sciences college; community services centers; camp and retreat centers; book and health food stores and a radio media ministry. To learn more about the Columbia Union, visit columbiaunion.org.

President n Dave Weigley

Executive Secretary n Celeste Ryan Blyden

Treasurer n Emmanuel Asiedu

Undertreasurer n Tabita Martinez

Vice President, Education n Donovan Ross

Vice President/General Counsel n Lisa Saveikis Burrow

Vice President, Ministries Development n Frank Bondurant

Vice President, Multilingual Ministries n Rubén A. Ramos

Asst. to the President for Evangelism n José D. Espósito

Secretary/Treasurer, Revolving Fund n H. Candace Nurse

Director, Communication Services n Kelly Butler Coe

Director, Information Technology Services n Greg Iverson

Director, Plant Services n Curtis Boore

Adventist ® and Seventh-day Adventist ® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists ® n The Visitor is printed and mailed at Pacific Press ® Publishing Association in Nampa, Idaho. n Unless otherwise noted, photos and illustrations are reproduced with permission from gettyimages.com.

ABOUT THE COVER n Pickleball enthusiasts Luis "Spike" Oms, Alonso Benitez, D'Jahna Thomas and Jimmy Alignay are using this simple sport to stay in shape and connected with their neighbors and friends. Photo taken by Brad Barnwell in Fulton, Md.

Remind your congregation that there are children waiting to meet Jesus, and there is a God in heaven who loves them more than the world will ever love them. As Ellen White puts it, “At every suitable opportunity let the story of Jesus’ love be repeated to the children” (Gospel Workers, p. 208).

As you plan for this year’s VBS at your church, remember to include in your prayers, “Lord, give one precious soul,” and I believe with all my heart that He will honor your request.

Soon after Pastor Gennadii Kasap arrived in Cleveland, he reached out to other Russianspeaking immigrants and refugees to see what they needed to settle into their new homes. “Refugees don’t have driver’s licenses. They don’t know where they can learn to drive in the States,” he says, noting the start of his “Driving with a Pastor” ministry where he spends time helping people learn to drive in a new environment while chatting with them in English or Russian.

He also offers appointments for people to walk and chat with him, especially as they are processing their worries and problems associated from leaving their homes in a war-torn part of the world.

These relationships have helped build a regular group of eight Russian/Ukrainian members grow to 31, plus visitors.

A VALUABLE ICEBREAKER

Barry Black, one of the highest profile Seventh-day Adventists in the United States and a longtime Columbia Union Conference member, is celebrating 20 years as the chaplain of the U.S. Senate. Read our interview with him at columbiaunionvisitor.com.

Equip, Empower, Engage

During the last Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee meeting, committee members voted to adopt an updated strategic motto for the Columbia Union in 2024–2026— Experience the Mission: Equip, Empower, Engage. They also set 2024 as the year of community engagement for evangelism with collaboration.

110,000 STEPS TO CHRIST DISTRIBUTED

Rubén A. Ramos, union vice president of Multilingual Ministries, reports that his department recently helped to disseminate 15,680 Bibles, 36,000 Bible studies and 110,000 copies of Steps to Christ to local conferences and churches.

DON’T STRESS IT

Did you know that the North American Division offers a variety of practical, online continuing education courses for employees, members and seekers alike through the Adventist Learning Community platform?

Mind, Body, Spirit: Health & Wellness in the 21st Century is one such course, hosted by H. Jean Wright II, a psychologist in Philadelphia, that provides practical tools to help participants find balance in today’s increasingly stressful world. Find more at adventistlearningcommunity.com.

Valter Andrade (pictured, center), pastor of Chesapeake Conference’s South Carroll church in Westminster, Md., has utilized his love of cars to attract new visitors. The church organized a series of engine-building workshops over three consecutive Sundays in April, using the pastor’s 1987 Chevy C10 as the focal point. With each session dedicated to a specific phase of engine construction, the event attracted both car enthusiasts and curious neighbors.

Each session saw an average of 20–30 participants, with approximately 15 visitors from the community over the three weekends.

Andrade believes that events like this provide a valuable icebreaker for people who may not typically engage with the church. “If I have these other interests, then other people probably do as well, and I can use it to connect with them and build a relationship,” he says.— Evan

Knott

THE REST OF THE STORY: Read full content at columbiaunionvisitor.com/upfront.

photo by emmett sinnott

UpFront

KETTERING HEALTH NAMES NEW CEO

After a five-month search, Kettering Health has invited Michael Gentry to serve as chief executive officer (CEO). He assumes the position July 3. Most recently, Gentry served as the chief operating officer at Sentara Healthcare,

headquartered in Norfolk, Va.

Celeste Ryan Blyden, chair of the Kettering Health Membership and Board of Directors, says, “Michael possesses great leadership acumen, deep respect for the Kettering Health mission and team, a heart for the ministry of health care and for the people and communities we are privileged to serve.

COLUMBIA UNION ASI HOSTS SPRING MEETING, ELECTS OFFICERS

Small business owners gathered at the union headquarters in Columbia, Md., for the Columbia Union chapter Adventist-laymen's Services & Industries (ASI) spring meeting to network and listen to seminars on best business practices, with the goal to build better companies to serve as mission outposts.

Things You Should Know

Highlights from the recent Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee meeting:

• Dave Weigley, Columbia Union president, emphasized the purpose of the church: to serve our community and carry the gospel to the world.

He noted the plans for two upcoming evangelistic initiatives— one in Cincinnati, supported by the Allegheny West and Ohio conferences, and one in Baltimore, supported by the Allegheny East and Chesapeake conferences.

• As of the second quarter report, the Columbia Union has 148,952 members. Celeste Ryan Blyden, union executive secretary, noted the age demographic of 34–59 comprised the largest part of the 561 new members.

• Emmanuel Asiedu, union treasurer, reported that unionwide tithe is up 10.7 percent, world mission giving is up, and tithe in all eight conferences within the Columbia Union has also increased. “God continues to bless in every direction,” he said.

• The Columbia Union Executive Committee voted to change the status of Hartland Institute from “dissident” to “supporting” ministry. Over recent years, Hartland’s leadership has stopped accepting tithe and has worked to build a more positive relationship with local churches in its area and the church at large, noted Weigley, who added that the local conferences who have been negatively impacted previously—Allegheny East, Chesapeake, Potomac, as well as the North American Division—support this action.

Daniel A. Reed (above), newly elected Columbia Union ASI president, believes that “once a person attends an ASI meeting, they cannot help themselves but to be active in the work of God.”

Read more about the event at columbiaunionvisitor.com/cuasi23.

ESPINOSA RETIRES, NINO JOINS UNION TEAM

Ileana Espinosa (below), who worked for more than 10 years as the associate director of elementary education in the Office of Education at the Columbia Union, retired June 30.

On July 1, Alison Jobson, the union’s associate director for early childhood education, will transition to Espinosa’s vacant position. Ruth Nino, principal of New Jersey Conference’s Waldwick Adventist School for the last 13 years, will join the union staff as associate director for early childhood education.

GUIDE MAGAZINE REDESIGNS

WEBSITE AND LAUNCHES APP

Guide, the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s weekly publication for juniors and earliteens, has relaunched guidemagazine.org and has added a mobile app.

New features include a “Story of the Week” that will engage readers; The Young Writers Course, a kid-friendly approach to writing stories; and Thumbuddies, a digital cardcollecting game. The site will still include past features, such as videos, games and the “Let’s Talk” discussion forum.— Alicia Adams

Kids’ Corner

THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR ME

Frustrated that they couldn’t find just the right Sabbath book for their young children, Jamie and John Domm, members of Chesapeake Conference’s Reaching Hearts church in Laurel, Md., wrote The Sabbath Was Made for Me, an illustrated book that explains the importance of the seventh-day Sabbath in easy-to-understand terms for kids. Find it at adventsource.com.

take

AN UNLIKELY PREACHER • William Miller, a pivotal preacher in the early Advent movement, didn’t

his faith seriously until the Battle of Plattsburgh in 1812, when he escaped death, thanks to God’s protection. Who knew this experience would change the course of his life and start a religious movement?

illustration courtesy the ellen g white estate

Noticias

v. michelle bernard

KETTERING HEALTH NOMBRA NUEVO DIRECTOR EJECUTIVO

Después de una búsqueda de cinco meses, Kettering Health invitó a Michael Gentry a liderar el próximo capítulo del futuro de la organización como director ejecutivo. Gentry es un líder de atención médica impulsado por una misión con experiencia ejecutiva en los principales sistemas de todo el país. Su primer día oficial en Kettering Health es el 3 de julio.

Recientemente, Gentry se desempeñó como director de operaciones en Sentara Healthcare, con sede en Norfolk, Virginia.

Cosas Que Deberías Saber

Los miembros del Comité Ejecutivo de Columbia Union se reunieron recientemente para escuchar los informes de los ministerios y entidades de toda la unión.

• Dave Weigley, presidente de Columbia Union, enfatizó el propósito de la iglesia: servir a nuestra comunidad y llevar el evangelio al mundo.

Señaló los planes para dos próximas iniciativas de evangelización: una en Cincinnati, apoyada por las conferencias de Allegheny West y Ohio, y otra en Baltimore, apoyada por las conferencias de Allegheny East y Chesapeake.

• Los miembros del comité votaron para adoptar un lema estratégico actualizado para Columbia Union del 2024-2026: Experimente la misión: Equipe, Empodere, Involucre. También establecieron el 2024 como el año de participación comunitaria para el evangelismo con colaboración.

• A partir del informe del segundo trimestre, Columbia Union tiene 148,952 miembros. Celeste Ryan Blyden, secretaria ejecutiva de la unión, señaló que la edad demográfica de 34 a 59 años comprendía la mayor parte de los 561 nuevos miembros.

• Emmanuel Asiedu, tesorero de la unión, informó que el diezmo en toda la unión aumentó un 10.7 por ciento, las donaciones para misiones mundiales aumentaron y el diezmo en las ocho conferencias dentro de Columbia Union también aumentó. “Dios continúa bendiciendo en todas direcciones”, dijo.

• El Comité Ejecutivo de Columbia Union votó para cambiar el estado del Instituto Hartland de ministerio “disidente” a ministerio “de apoyo”. En los últimos años, el liderazgo de Hartland ha dejado de aceptar el diezmo y ha trabajado para construir una relación más positiva con las iglesias locales de su área y la iglesia en general, señaló Weigley, quien agregó que las conferencias locales que han sido impactadas negativamente previamente—Allegheny East, Chesapeake, Potomac, así como como la División Norteamericana, apoyan esta acción.

110,000 EL CAMINO A CRISTO DISTRIBUIDOS

Rubén A. Ramos, vicepresidente de los Ministerios Multilingües de la unión, informa que su departamento recientemente ayudó a distribuir 15,680 Biblias, 36,000 estudios bíblicos y 110,000 copias de El Camino a Cristo a las conferencias e iglesias locales.

ESPINOSA SE RETIRA, NINO SE UNE AL EQUIPO DE LA UNIÓN

Ileana Espinosa, quien trabajó durante más de 10 años como directora asociada de educación primaria en la Oficina de Educación de Columbia Union, se jubiló el 30 de junio.

El 1 de julio, Alison Jobson, directora asociada de educación infantil temprana de Columbia Union, hará la transición al puesto vacante de Espinosa. Ruth Nino (en la foto de abajo), quien se ha desempeñado como directora de la Escuela Adventista Waldwick de New Jersey Conference durante 13 años, se unirá al personal de la unión como directora asociada de educación infantil temprana.

With a Pickle on the Side Evangelism Evangelism

By Elizabeth Anderson

The words “evangelism” and “witnessing” might resurrect memories of knocking on strangers’ doors, clanking ingathering cans and distributing tent revival or Revelation Seminar invitations. Those traditional methods of sharing the Seventh-day Adventist message still have their place, however, some members from the Columbia Union Conference are learning that being the “salt and light” can show up in different flavors—from pickleball and visual art to the world of tabletop games. These members are allowing Christ’s love to breathe through their hobbies and passions to bring about organic, yet intentional friendships.

Pickleball Flavor

Pickleball, a paddle sport laced with elements from tennis and badminton, has grown exponentially during the past three years, according to a recent Sports and Fitness Industry Association report.

When Jay Alignay, aka “Coach Jay,” a member of Chesapeake Conference’s New Hope church in Fulton, Md., was introduced to the sport last year, he was hooked after playing just a couple of games.

“I played a 15-year-old and an 85-year-old, and lost to the both of them,” he says.

“From that experience, I realized that pickleball was an amazing sport that was inclusive … no matter who you are, what age, what gender, what belief, what background,” noting the sport’s inclusivity also enables those with certain disabilities to also take part.

Alignay dove into the sport, eventually earning a USA Pickleball Certification and becoming a certified

coach and referee. Excited to share this newfound passion, he wondered, How can I get my friends and my family involved … and also my co-workers?”

Since his career as a technology architect occasionally involves cross-country travel, he looked for places to play the sport and found opportunities via Facebook and Instagram.

“[People] welcomed me with open arms,” Alignay says. “I could just basically parachute [in] and play pickleball” in any location.

The inclusivity sparked more questions about pickleball’s potential for connecting with the

Jimmy Alignay, aka “Coach Jay” (wearing hat), is accompanied by fellow community certified coach Eric Peguero (left) and other pickleball enthusiasts at Beltsville Adventist School’s gymnasium.

Use your favorite hobbies like pickleball— to meet people where they are.

community, church and even the world. Alignay searched for and made connections with other Adventists who had established or operated pickleball programs.

Back at home, in January 2023 Alignay garnered interest in a pickleball ministry with members at Potomac Conference’s Beltsville (Md.) church. A group started playing weekly across the parking lot inside Beltsville Adventist School’s gymnasium.

Since then, Alignay has lauched pickleball groups in six other churches and schools: Olney (Md.) church; Southern Asian church in Silver Spring, Md.; Far West End church in Rockville, Va.; Spencerville church in Silver Spring, Md.; Takoma Academy Preparatory School (TA Prep) in Takoma Park, Md.; and Frederick Adventist Academy (FAA) in Maryland.

With an average of more than 30 members who play at each location, Alignay says he plans to launch 25 more pickleball ministries by the end of the year.

“I’m already getting sponsorships from certain paddle manufacturers and makers who are actually donating and providing paddles for our church programs at no cost,” Alignay says. “It is amazing how the Lord is working every day for us.”

Getting Schooled

By focusing on exercise, pickleball ministry gives churches another pathway to be active stewards of the Adventist Church’s health and education pillars, which ties into the participation of schools.

When Alignay approached principals Drechelle McCray and Jake Villanueva about starting pickleball programs at their schools to extend their community outreach, they responded that they already had the equipment.

“I found out that my current athletic director had already taught some of our students how to play pickleball,” says McCray, principal of Potomac Conference’s TA Prep. “We’re hoping to be able to start [the program] this summer.”

Villanueva, principal of Chesapeake Conference’s FAA, says, “I think everything starts with building a relationship and not with ulterior motives. Our goal is just to build a relationship with someone and get to know them,” he says of the pickleball ministry, run on Tuesday evenings at the school.

This form of ministry not only connects churches and schools with their communities; it also helps link church members who don’t often get the opportunity to interact with each other outside of church.

That’s what Rebecca Abraham is learning from her involvement with the pickleball program at Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville church. She also plays with friends at the Beltsville and Olney churches.

“I see these church members at various events … and now I might just holler out their nickname,” she says. “I’m connecting with all kinds of people

Luis "Spike" Oms, a Beltsville church member, and his grandson, Alonso Benitez, a student from Olney Adventist Preparatory School, play a pickleball match against D'Jahna Thomas, Takoma Park church Health Ministries leader, and Coach Jay.

of all ages, of all backgrounds, and mostly a lot of kids, like the students that go to Spencerville [Adventist Academy].”

Frictionless Intentionality

Alignay says one of his main goals is to make the pickleball experience as “frictionless” as possible for participants. Even though the goal is not overt witnessing, that doesn’t mean intentionality is thrown out the window. Quite the opposite.

“We don’t do an altar call” Alignay says, but certain traditions remain part of the experience.

It′s Your Turn to Serve

• Find an accountability buddy at your gym

• Polish your foreign language skills with a conversation exchange partner

• Volunteer at an established nonprofit

• Lead a book club at your community library

• Organize a pet parade at your local dog park

Art With Heart

Pickleball isn’t the only way to develop friendships. Who knew art classes and playing games could warm hearts?

Megan Garcia, who attends Mountain View Conference’s Charleston Boulevard church in West Virginia, is learning that sharing her gift of creativity comes with a lot of prayer, personal investment and waiting.

During her art classes held at the church, Garcia leads several types of projects—including a geode class. It doesn’t hurt that a four-course meal is part of the package, she says.

“There’s tons of people who come for the first time who would never set foot in a church, but it’s like a safe place,” Garcia says, noting that she is intentional about creating a positive family-style environment that is informal, yet Christ-centered.

And leading with relationships can also include a trip to the baptismal pool.

Garcia tells about a man whose unexpected path to baptism first included her art class, then attending an evangelistic series. He learned that the Adventist Church basically aligned with his beliefs, so it was a fit. Two of his other friends, attendees of the art class, also got baptized. (Read more about how God is blessing her passion for art to reach others in Mountain Viewpoint on page 20.)

“We do end with prayer. We also play Contemporary Christian music from WGTS 91.9 via Bluetooth.”

In addition, various churches supply welcome packet bags with bottles of water and pamphlets about their church, Health Ministries and other programs that the church offers.

The goal is to open that doorway to other opportunities through genuine relationships for those who are curious, Alignay says. “Hopefully this becomes a … kind of outreach, rather than just maybe a onetime campaign at someone’s door. Like all of our ministries, I think it’s all in the Lord’s hands.”

Alignay shares that a co-worker of his now attends his church from time to time as a result of playing pickleball with him. “One inspiring sermon hopefully will change one life, right? Same thing with pickleball. Hopefully, pickleball will enlighten or inspire one individual or motivate someone to continue their relationship with our church or our community and possibly become a believer.”

Essential Evangelism

Some Adventist members believe that genuine friendships can be more impactful than evangelistic meetings—especially for people or individuals who may not be interested in church or those who hold regard for the Divine, but whose beliefs may differ.

Junnie Ree Pagunsan, pastor of Potomac Conference’s Far West End church in Rockville, Va., is known as the “nicest guy on the pickleball court,” a designation he received from others who play on Richmond’s public courts.

The church’s ministry got started nearly two years ago during the height of the pandemic when people were looking for ways to connect—at a distance.

Pagunsan shows up at pickleball courts around the city to be a familiar face so “the more people know me, then the more I can relate to them, and the more they share,” he says. Eventually, he’s found himself being invited to people’s homes, sharing meals with families.

“Next thing I know, they were there in church,” he says. Situations like that blossomed out of a natural trajectory of questions while getting to know people. He mentions his past work as a chaplain, and when the circle of life paused on death and grief, he was invited to preside over a memorial service for a fellow pickleball player who succumbed to cancer.

In another case, Pagunsan says a different player, who previously voiced a belief that all religions are corrupt, attended a church Easter cantata and donated funds “supporting medical mission costs,” he says. It’s been part of the trajectory of their friendship.

Rick Johns, pastor of Potomac Conference’s Olney (Md.) church whose church hosts pickleball sessions every Sunday at the adjoining school, agrees: “I think pickleball ministry and other friendship evangelism ministries are essential to what the

church does in the world today. We have to have a relationship in order to invite people to go deeper. And it’s actually how Jesus did His ministry. … But I think this is the starting point.”

Even though friendship-style evangelism is more personable than handing strangers invitations to a Revelation Seminar, there can be drawbacks too. In friendship evangelism, there’s no structure in place so that new friends can learn more about Jesus when the Good News is shared, Johns says. That’s where intentionally kicks in.

“The pros of pickleball or friendship evangelism is you get to meet people, build relationships, earn their trust,” says Johns. “They [will have] much more interest in what you have going as a church and who you are. … And I think it’s much easier for them to accept an invitation to come to any kind of seminar or anything that you’re doing at the church or even to come and worship with you.”

Johns continues, “I think we do have something that people want. And so we shouldn’t have to pressure them. We should just invite them and show them how good it is,” referencing the way Jesus worked.

No Dress Code

Part of getting together with friends and neighbors is being open to the surprises God can bring through one’s interest, hobby and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

New Hope church member Marty Chappell, a pickleball player and a fifth-grade teacher at a public school, notes, “When it comes to pickleball, it’s just a nice thing to feel like I’m not inviting [my students and neighbors] to something churchy. … It doesn’t feel like I have to say, ‘If you come, make sure you put your tie on.’ I think it’s a way to show who we are without being too preachy.”

Villanueva agrees, “Our motives are not to make sure that we’re trying to baptize people. Yeah, we would love for that to happen, but our goal is just to build a relationship with someone and get to know them.”

McCray adds, “There are so many beautiful things about the church, but [many of us] have gotten stuck

A Tabletop Stop

Scott Kabel (below, right), who currently resides in Hawaii, has ties to Pennsylvania Conference’s Blue Mountain Academy where he taught a class—and played tabletop games with his students—while doing dissertation work for his education doctorate.

These days, playing games with the community in Hawaii is his passion. Kabel owns a trove of tabletop games and started hosting a weekly game night at the Hawaii Conference office in August of 2022 “with mostly church friends,” Kabel says. “But then I started playing in more areas around town. Now maybe [only] a third of the group is Adventist. Sometimes fewer.”

This past April, with support of conference leaders, they hosted a gaming retreat at the conference campgrounds that included a library of more than 100 tabletop games.

“We ended up getting 65 people out there on the weekend. I think of that 65, there were five Adventists. Two of them were the cooks,” Kabel says.

Their tabletop gaming community also consists of different types of Christians “who have initiated conversations with me about ministry,” Kabel says. “There’s ministry there just in getting people together!”

on religion. Our mission still remains the same, right? However, our avenues and reaching people needs to change with the times.”

The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian.

—The Ministry of Healing, p. 470

No!! What do they use it for?

Did you know that our church has an app?

They text members with important church updates—like snow closures or links to watch livestreams or send church newsletters.

I can access our church directory, events and am able to update my subscriptions to the Visitor and Adventist World magazines.

eAdventist

is much more than a membership tool for church clerks. It’s also a free, powerful church management tool for pastors and congregations.

Links to church resources (AdventistGiving, streaming, Facebook, website, calendar of events, etc.)

Direct contact between the church and its members

Profiles for church members and their families

Members can update their own profiles and subscriptions

Online church directory

Sign up your church today!

Conference Hosts Annual Communication Conference

Allegheny East Conference’s (AEC) Communication Department recently hosted its eighth annual Connection and Ministry Communication Conference (CAMCON) at its office headquarters. This was the first in-person conference in three years. The theme, “Connecting the Dots,” focused on current methods and tools to minister to others in the post-pandemic context.

Presenters included Kevin Wilson, social media strategist at Andrews University (Mich.); Chris Thompson, author, pastor, church planter and executive director of a nonprofit for at-risk youth; Rohann Wellington, director of the Professional Services Department at the North American Division; and Alker-Kelly Antoine, executive director of media for the Haitian Ministerium. Topics included social media, storytelling, online evangelism, branding and technology.

Organizers later presented CAMCON awards to the Movement Germantown (Md.) church for best video production, and the East Lansdowne (Pa.) church for best hybrid ministry.

In addition, five churches received grants for various ministry projects. The top grant of $1,500 went to the East Lansdowne church for

their Cancer Comfort Ministry Box project, which provides individuals diagnosed with cancer with a box that includes a mug, a plush throw blanket, two pairs of cozy socks and a comforting note, among other things.

As the grand finale, Marcellus T. Robinson (pictured sitting with participants), AEC’s president who attended the three-day conference, announced that each church represented would receive $1,000 to assist their Communication and Media departments. An additional $500 was later added.

“I was blessed by the fellowship of others from different churches … and left with a renewed spiritual commitment to this ministry,” says Karin Harmon, a member of the First Church of Millsboro in Delaware.

Emmanuel Worship Center Reads Bible in a Month

The Emmanuel Worship Center in Alexandria, Va., recently hosted a Bible reading marathon, in which members were charged to read the entire Bible in one month. Members developed a reading schedule that included reading together during Sabbath School and the worship service and reading individually during the week.

At the conclusion of the marathon, many— including three prospective members—requested more in-depth study of various books of the Bible. Now the church is studying the book of Acts on Wednesday nights, Romans on Sabbath mornings and Revelation on Sabbath afternoons.

Several participants shared how the project impacted them. “My friend and I were incredibly blessed … to join in reading the Bible with a group of believers,” shares member Eveythe Cargill.

“It has reawakened a personal hunger for God’s Word,” says member Howell Henderson.

“I got a sense of the connectedness in Scripture. I can see how quotes from the Old Testament fit into the New Testament,” explains member S. June Kennedy.

“[It] has been a joyful and fulfilling exercise … and a rediscovery of God’s mercy, justice and undying love for humanity,” adds Mahadere Getachew.

Capitol Hill Hosts ‘Acts of Kindness’ Day

The Capitol Hill church in Washington, D.C., holds various “Acts of Kindness” days throughout the year where they minister to the Washington, D.C., community in various ways. Recently, volunteers delivered food and beverages to those experiencing homelessness, while other volunteers delivered a hot breakfast to D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department. They also distributed cards and prayed over the officers.

Another team packed 300 bag lunches for three shelters and Habitat for Humanity volunteers who were building homes in Southeast D.C. They also collected more than 150 cans of tuna and canned peaches for the Holy Name Food pantry.

During the church service, pastors prayed for uniformed first responders. This “blessing of the uniforms” honored those serving in the police and fire departments, as well as medical professionals. During children’s church, they created cards for hygiene kits for Thrive DC, a crisis-relief organization.

“‘Acts of Kindness’ days give our congregation an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus in D.C. Going out into the community, actually seeing where people live, and experiencing the conditions increases our understanding and helps us become better servants,” shares Karen Hayes, Capitol Hill’s Community Services Ministries leader.

Philadelphia Churches Meet Post-Pandemic Food Needs

When community residents learned they would no longer receive the extra food assistance they received during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mizpah and New Life churches in Philadelphia stepped in to fill the gap.

The cut affected many families, and with increasing prices, feared how they would provide food for their loved ones. Mizpah and Life partnered with agencies to offer services to this community.

Mizpah hosted The Coalition Against Hunger’s first VIP pantry tour, in which organizers showcased how to resource and distribute food, clothing, house goods and provide other community needs. Howard Duncan, Mizpah’s pastor, delivered an inspirational message, and Vernessa Wilson, Mizpah’s Community Services leader, shared how Mizpah is

Community residents line up for food at the Mizpah church during The Coalition Against Hunger’s first VIP pantry tour and Hope for Philly Network gathering.

still able to keep their pantry stocked and vibrant even after the pandemic.

“God spoke to my heart, and I said, ‘If You want us to do this, You have to protect the team,’” says Wilson. God answered her prayer, and none of her team contracted COVID-19 during the height of the pandemic and still today. They continue to serve food twice a week and look forward to providing even more resources in the future.

Robin Sampson, head deacon at the Capitol Hill church, packs bag lunches during the “Acts of Kindness” day.

Grace Community Celebrates Grand Opening

The Grace Community church, located in Euclid, Ohio, recently celebrated its grand opening. This was a momentous occasion for Myron Edmonds and Regina Johnson, lead pastor and associate pastor, respectively, as well as more than 700 members and friends who were accommodated into two services that Sabbath morning.

Attendees included the mayor and council members of the City of Euclid; Allegheny West Conference (AWC) President Marvin C. Brown, III; AWC Vice President Joel E. Johnson; AWC Chief Financial Officer Keisha Bone; and many other conference officials. In addition, visitors traveled from across the country to attend, and some even watched online from the Caribbean, Europe and South Africa.

“The grand opening of Grace Community Seventh-day Adventist Church is the largest opening in the history of the Allegheny West Conference,” Brown shared at the event.

Edmonds stated that the vision of Grace Community is to make an impact in the lives of 10,000 families over the next three years through its mission of “helping as many people as possible experience God’s grace before Christ returns.” Furthermore, he continued, “This building project is the culmination of the crazy and radical faith shown by our members. It is a physical reminder that God can do anything.”

Special recognition was made to Edmond’s wife, Shanee, who worked behind the scenes in providing the creative, decorative touch to the building.

In somber reflection, Edmonds pointed out that many members of the former Glenville church who saw the need to spread the gospel in the city of Euclid and who started this “wilderness journey” were laid to rest before seeing its completion. Most notable was the late James Davis, a pastor and staunch supporter of Grace Community’s vision. Congregants share that this historic moment was indelibly etched in their minds through the sermons delivered by Vandeon Griffin, associate youth director of the North American Division, and John Coaxum, pastor of the Hilltop Community Worship Center, in the first and second services, respectively. The church members are excited and eager to live out the church’s name to bring Grace to the community of Euclid.—Violet Cox, Elder at Grace Community

The new Grace Community church is located at 26100 Euclid Avenue in Euclid, Ohio.

Myron Edmonds, pastor of the Grace Community church, shares the church’s vision to help others experience God’s grace.

Columbus Adventist Academy Expands

“How does a church school grow from only two classrooms, two teachers, and 37 students to a K–8 school with 150-plus students, 12 classrooms, nine full-time teachers, a principal, instructional and administrative aides, and many volunteers?”

This was the question Valerie Lee, member of the Ephesus church in Columbus, Ohio, posed earlier this year when giving the church’s history of education during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Columbus Adventist Academy’s (CAA) expansion celebration.

The Eastwood Pathfinders Drum Corp opened the ceremony with a bang, followed by remarks from Grace Brown, school board chair. Lee then shared the account of moving in the 1940s from a small church basement known as the Ephesus Elementary School to the more expansive 19,000-square-foot facility where CAA stands today.

William T. Cox, executive director of the Regional Conference Retirement Plan and under whose leadership CAA was built, shared his joy of having grandchildren attend the school. Marvin C. Brown, III, AWC president, congratulated the church and school for their ongoing commitment to Christian education, giving special accolades to DeLaina Cox, Campus Development Committee chair, and committee members Jadon Nious, Don Cantrell, Elaine Crawford, Elethia Dean, James Lee, Kim Upchurch and Reggie Wells. This team carried out the tedious job of working with builders, architects and zoning officials. Special thanks was given to Lincoln Construction, the team that completed the project almost two months ahead of schedule and within budget. Violet Cox, conference education superintendent, expressed her delight in the conference’s forward momentum in advancing Christian education.

The CAA choir and step team added their talents to the program. Afterward, Keith Goodman, Ephesus pastor, invited guests to the school for the ribbon cutting. CAA was pleased to use the same scissors that were used to cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Hale Hall, a building on the Ohio State University campus that was named after Frank W. Hale, Jr., longtime Ephesus Education Department leader and former Oakwood University president. Conference officials believe that because of Evelyn Fordham-Goodman’s leadership as CAA’s principal, along with a devoted and strong slate of teachers and other personnel, CAA has a vibrant, multi-ethnic student body who proudly lives out their mission: “Christ-centered Evangelism, Empowerment, and Excellence.” CAA has ongoing plans to add grades 9–12.—Valerie Lee,

Former Columbus Adventist Academy Board Member

Marvin C. Brown, III (center), president of Allegheny West Conference (AWC), and Joel E. Johnson (right), vice president of AWC, present a check of $200,000 to Keith Goodman, Ephesus church pastor (left), and Delaina Cox, Finance Committee chairperson of Columbus Adventist Academy, as contribution to the capital project.

Delaina Cox, Finance Committee chairperson for Columbus Adventist Academy, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the school’s expansion.

photos by dennis bentil

Spoiler Alert!

I have a friend who has a strange habit of reading the last chapter of books first. He says it’s because he wants to know if the book will be worth the investment of his time and energy to read the whole thing. He also deliberately reads book reviews that contain spoilers for the same reason. “Why would I spend all that time reading a book that has a disappointing ending?” he reasons. “And besides, if I know it ends well, I then will read it from cover to cover to discover why it ends well.” I guess there are some people who just don’t like surprises. Apparently, my friend is one of them. To each his own.

Speaking of endings, with all the dire predictions and theories floating about these days of how the world will end—whether by asteroid strike, climate change, solar flare, nuclear war (on purpose or by accident), disease, famine, plague, pestilence or something not yet thought of—SPOILER ALERT!—the Bible tells humankind how the end will come, under whose control it will end, and what comes after that (the sequel, if you will), and it is both soberingly terrible and unfathomably glorious! Indeed, one of the unique features of the Bible is how often the “end of the story” is repeated throughout its many books by a host of Holy Spiritinspired authors who lived under various circumstances and in different eras. There is no other book like it.

Not only does this unique feature affirm and reaffirm the inspiration of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, each generation of readers past, present and future is offered the assurance that, though the heavens fall and the earth is laid waste, the story really does end well, and even happily ever after—at least for those who personally know the Author as their Lord and Savior.

Now, whether the world ends well or not is really a matter of perspective, isn’t it? And certainly, knowing how or when the world ends is not nearly as important as knowing what becomes of us when it does. And here is where I believe the apostle John offers one of the best, most concise, hope-filled, how-it-ends “spoilers” in all of Scripture: “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life” (1 John 5:11–12, NIV).

So, where will you be when the world ends—not geographically or eschatologically, but spiritually? Does knowing how the story ends spark an interest in reading the Book from cover to cover to discover why it ends the way it does? I hope so. I promise it will be well worth the investment of your time and energy.

Frederick Church Hosts Mike Donehey Concert

The Frederick (Md.) church recently held a free community concert in Baker Park in downtown Frederick featuring Mike Donehey, lead singer of Tenth Avenue North. The event aimed to build connections with the community by inviting people to engage with the church in a casual, neutral setting.

Organizers were intentional to connect concertgoers back to the church. Morgan Kochenower, lead pastor, delivered a short homily before the concert, emphasizing how Jesus’ triumph over death provides hope for even the most broken situations. Several tent stations provided additional interaction, including a kids’ activity tent and a prayer tent where a team of volunteers, including mental health professionals, were available for conversation. Partners Adventist HealthCare, WGTS 91.9, and Frederick Rescue Mission collabarated with the church for the event and also had tents to engage with concertgoers.

Jerry Lutz President

Singer Mike Donehey (left) takes a selfie with Frederick church pastors Morgan Kochenower and Alaraeece Collie.

Pastors Renew Faith on Bible Lands Trip

The Chesapeake Conference recently organized an educational study tour to the Bible lands for pastors, aiming to enhance their biblical knowledge and support their ministry.

On the first phase, the pastors visited Egypt and Jordan, and on the second phase, they traveled to Israel and Palestine. Visits to significant biblical sites such as Mount Sinai, the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Jordan River and Mount Carmel were included in the itinerary.

Jerry Lutz, Chesapeake Conference president, emphasized the significance of the tour, describing it as a “faith-building, perspective-expanding, and broadening experience” for the pastors. Lutz noted that for some, it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit locations where the patriarchs lived and Jesus walked.

Eli Rojas, conference ministerial director, expressed satisfaction with the overall experience.

“We had a wonderful experience as a group of pastors. We climbed Mount Sinai, we walked by the Dead Sea, we visited the Sea of Galilee and so many other places,” he says. “Our hope, and what we are actually already seeing in our pastors, is renewed excitement about Jesus.”

The study tour has had a lasting impact on the participants, with many pastors reporting a deepening of their faith and a strengthening of their ministry.

John Rengifo, lead pastor of the Ellicott City (Md.) church, shared his personal experience, saying, “My life was deeply enriched by being there and seeing the places, listening to the stories and reading the Scripture about all of these biblical places. I cannot describe the impact that has made on my faith and

the affirmation it’s given me in the Word of God.”

A highlight for many on tour was the opportunity to recommit their lives to Christ by following His example and being baptized in the Jordan River. Babawale Adepoju, senior pastor of the Pikesville and Reisterstown churches in Maryland, who was accompanied on the trip by his newlywed wife, Candace, said the moment was especially meaningful to them as they begin their shared life together. “It was just an amazing experience for me and my new bride to recommit our lives to God and to follow in the same path that Jesus did by being baptized in the Jordan River when He started His ministry,” says Adepoju.

“Chesapeake Conference’s investment in this study tour reflects its dedication to promoting continuing education for pastors, enabling them to better serve their local congregations,” says Lutz. “The transformative experience offered through this tour has not only renewed the pastors’ excitement for their faith but also enriched their ministry and strengthened their connection to the Bible’s teachings.”

The educational study tour group takes a photo overlooking Jersualem.

The tour group enjoys a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.

Doors Are Opened at Cumberland Church

The Cumberland (Md.) church started a building project in 2014. With the goal to be debt-free, they only moved on the project as money was received. When Pastor Jim Buchanan arrived in the district in 2017, there was still just a shell of a building after three years. The members began praying earnestly, and the money started coming. Church member Gary Kasekamp even raised money by taking a bike trip across the country, while others faithfully and sacrificially gave month after month.

There were many obstacles along the way. A windstorm blew the roof off in November 2018 and new building codes kept them from moving forward more quickly. Finally, on December 25, 2021, the congregation received the occupancy permit to begin worshipping inside.

Much more work needed to be done, but Cumberland leaders set a church dedication date for March 11, 2023. It was a grand celebration and a long-awaited event. Many friends attended from across the conference and Columbia Union, including Tim Bailey, Mountain View Conference (MVC) president, and Dave Weigley, Columbia Union president. Buchanan opened the ceremony with a short sermon, followed by an afternoon of food and music.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was the highlight of the afternoon for many members. Oldest member Ron Higson and youngest member Annalee Mellotte

Tim Bailey, president of Mountain View Conference; Ron Higson, the oldest member of the Cumberland church; Jim Buchanan, pastor of Cumberland; Dave Weigley, president of Columbia Union; and Annalee Mellotte, the youngest member of Cumberland, celebrate the church’s building project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

held opposite ends of the ribbon while it was cut.

The following Sunday, the congregation held an open house so that the community could come and tour the new church. Members showed the building project video, and some neighbors later came and shared a meal. The local mayor also attended and was quite impressed with their community outreach plans. The next day, the church ran a diabetes screening and healthy vegetarian cooking class on its grounds.

The following Friday night, they started an evangelistic meeting with MVC evangelist Stewart Pepper. Many church and community members came to hear the gospel message preached every night and made decisions to follow Jesus. An average of 22–32 non-members attended nightly.

Cumberland church was blessed with six people who gave their hearts to Jesus through baptism. Many members agree that with God’s blessings, they will continue to grow and be an asset in their community.—Elaine Buchanan, Cumberland Church Member

Jim Buchanan (right), pastor of the Cumberland church, reads the baptismal vows to candidates Cynthia Yearby (left), Ricardo Rodriguez De La Rosa, Michelle Kho, Diamondnique-Jade Ghost, Keith Ghost and Kat Ghost.

Art Can Change the World

Something life-changing is happening at the Charleston Boulevard church in West Virginia, and it’s through a very unlikely source—a simple art class!

What started in 2021 as a small art class comprised of 7–10 members quickly blossomed into a 60–70-person monthly event! The free class meets one Sunday each month, bringing together a variety of ages, denominations, genders and skill levels.

To start the class, Megan Garcia (below), a professional artist and wife of Tony, assistant pastor of Charleston Boulevard, gives a short devotional to encourage the group and sew gentle seeds in those who may never otherwise step foot in a church. Then everyone enjoys a four-course meal with friendly fellowship and fun giveaways. And lastly, Megan step-by-step leads the art project of the month.

“Many have come to know the Lord for the first time through this ministry, and there’s even Bible studies taking place in different homes with those who attend the class!” states Megan.

“One of my granddaughters who was raised in this church recently started coming to the class with me. It has been the right incentive to bring her back through the doors of the church,” states Peggy Koch, Boulevard Church member. “It’s a non-threatening way of inviting people to church activities without making them feel pressured. Now she is bringing her 19-year-old son, my grandson, with her. I am so excited about the prospect of her coming back to God through this ministry.”

As the Mountain View Conference emphasizes, there are many, many ways to tell somebody about Jesus!

Visitors Krista Chrispell and Keith Johnson attend the art class for the first time.

Featuring Janet Salazar Pastor’s wife, mother of two, teacher and published writer currently living in Maryland.

photo by ethan garcia

Longing for That Day

As I read Jesus’ words in John 14:1, “Let not your heart be troubled” (NKJV), I cannot stop thinking about my 2-year-old granddaughter, Catalina, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. How can I accept Jesus’ words when we—humankind—become so overwhelmed by problems that are many times beyond our control?

Perhaps, you may be facing an illness in your family, the loss of a job, a family conflict, or a child in a problematic spiritual or moral situation. Maybe at work you have a case beyond your control that keeps you up at night. The question is, “How can I accept Jesus’ words, ‘Let not your heart be troubled,’ when my heart feels so broken?”

Through His Son, God has a message of encouragement for my family and me, and perhaps for you if you are currently facing a challenging situation too. First, Jesus said that in this world we would have afflictions and tribulations; suffering and adversities would not only affect non-believers, but Christians too.

Moreover, Jesus said, “Believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1, NKJV). The focus must not be on the problem but in the solution. Do not lose faith in God amid your afflictions. In John 16:33, Jesus states, “But be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (NKJV). And the author of Psalm 23:4 wisely writes, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (NKJV).

Lastly, according to John 14:1–3, we must remember that this world is not our home. Jesus has prepared a home in heaven for you, for our beloved Catalina, and for all of those awaiting His return, for “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4, NKJV).

Now, more than ever, I long for that day.

Conference Sponsors TLT Retreat

Jorge Aguero President

More than 30 Teen Leadership Training (TLT) candidates and staff recently attended the iTell TLT retreat. Carl Rodriguez, conference Youth Ministries director, states, “iTell offers different workshops on how to reach others for Christ. This year, three components were offered to the teens and staff who attended: how to start a summer camp at a local church; establishing small groups; and how to do follow-ups.”

Attendees share they left the meeting rejuvenated, equipped and excited for ministry in their local churches.

Nigel Leon, a Teen Leadership Training member from Lake Nelson church’s Piscataway Eagles Pathfinder Club, gives an “OK ” sign during the retreat.

Teachers-In-Service Learn Through Fellowship

Principals, staff and teachers from five schools in North, Central and South New Jersey recently gathered in Piscataway for Teachers-in-Service 2023. “Under the theme, ‘Be a Light,’ we’re launching a set of core values,” says Elisa Maragoto, superintendent of schools for the New Jersey Conference and principal of Lake Nelson Adventist Academy in Piscataway.

The vision is to reflect God’s light in every classroom through five core values: Spiritual Leadership, Relational Leadership, Grounded Accountability, Self-Leadership, and Outdoor Leadership.

Children’s Ministries Convention Ministers to Families

Sixty Children’s Ministries local church directors and staff from 22 churches attended the Children’s Ministries Convention earlier this year. Pamela Daly and Ana Maria Benzaquen from the North American Division Children’s Ministries Department presented the Ministering to Families track in English and Spanish.

The certification track ended on Saturday night with a graduation where many received a certificate and pin. On Sunday, the attendees participated in the Vacation Bible eXperience (VBX) live expo where they were equipped to conduct a week of VBX at their local churches.

Attendee Aurelle Mirasol shares, “The Children’s Ministries Convention was such a blessing. It taught parents and leaders the precious value of our children. We learned that we truly must invest and commit our time toward them, and that we have the responsibility of living by example, teaching our

children to have a relationship with Jesus and treating others with true compassion.”

She continues, “We learned that we are to accept them as they are in order to help them belong to a loving community, guide their faith to believe in Jesus and help them become all that Christ has created them to be, teaching them to #sayyestojesus.”

Buzz the Bee joins the attendees at the Children’s Ministries Convention.

New Jersey Conference teachers Jason Chavez, Lilia Torres and John Hakizimana hold the conference’s mascot, Buzz the Bee, during a team exercise.

Principals, teachers and staff pause for a word of prayer during the Teachers-in-Service meeting.

Officers Re-Elected at 43rd Constituency Meeting

In early June, the Ohio Conference held its 43rd regular constituency meeting at the Worthington church. More than 300 delegates from across the territory received reports from conference leadership, voted in executive committee members, and re-elected Bob Cundiff as president, Oswaldo Magaña as executive secretary, and Roy M. Simpson as treasurer for the next quinquennium.

The delegates also received seven new congregations into the sisterhood of churches: Dublin Hispanic, West Columbus Hispanic, Massillon Connections, Willard Hispanic, Dayton African, La Gran Esperanza Hispanic in Columbus, and Advent Hope International in Worthington.

In his president’s report, Cundiff revealed that the total tithe from 2018 to 2022 was $68,286,279, an increase of 34.4 percent compared to the previous quinquennium. The report showed leadership’s prudent financial measures, including balancing the budget, controlled expenses—including at Camp Mohaven—and decreased administrative expenses.

In addition, the leadership implemented the school budget review process, resumed annual treasury training and increased the number of church audits. During the period under review, the conference’s operating net assets increased by 240 percent.

On evangelism, Cundiff reported how the conference surpassed its goal through the 2023 Initiative, a conference-wide drive to baptize 2,023 new members between 2021 and 2023, in comparison to the conference’s yearly historical baptisms of around 300 to 400. On May 27, 2023, the Ohio Conference exceeded its target when it held a

mass baptism of 82 people at Delaware Beach Park, marking 2,088 baptisms and surpassing the goal of 2023 decisions by 65.

“We purchased portable baptistries for a campaign [proceeding the baptism] that ended up traveling all over the conference to tents, hotels, schools and rented halls where people were giving their lives to Christ,” Cundiff added. Four more people were also baptized on Sunday, making it the first time in history that the Ohio Conference constituency had baptisms.

Cundiff shared that the schools’ enrollment in the conference increased from 850 to 1,000 between 2018 and 2023. “This is the first time in five constituency cycles that the Ohio Conference has not had to close a school,” he pointed out.

In his acceptance speech, Cundiff said, “Thank you so much for the invitation to serve. [This] is a humbling, humbling thing to come to a meeting like this and be at this place of vulnerability and evaluation, and … being invited to serve is precious. We love you all and love this great territory of Ohio.”

By a show of hands, delegates vote to approve the members who were baptized at the constituency meeting.

Re-elected Ohio Conference officers Oswaldo Magaña, executive secretary (left), with his wife, Herlinda; Bob Cundiff, president (center), with his wife, Tanique; and Roy M. Simpson, treasurer, with his wife, Melissa, will serve the conference for the next quinquennium.

photos by zoë alvarez

Conference Meets Goal of Baptizing 2,023 Members

The Ohio Conference recently hosted a mass baptism of 82 people at Delaware Beach Park. The event was a culmination of the 2023 Initiative, a conference-wide evangelistic drive started in 2021 with the goal of baptizing 2,023 members by this year.

Before the ceremony, the conference needed 17 baptisms to meet its goal, but 82 people decided to be baptized, exceeding the target before the end of the year.

“In the Ohio Conference, historically, we baptize between 300 and 400 people a year. The highest year of baptism we’ve ever had in our conference’s history was 2016 [when] we baptized about 530,” says Bob Cundiff, conference president.

Church members who attended the event expressed joy by clapping when Armando Girón López, the 2,023rd person, was presented for baptism. Cundiff gave him a family Bible as a gift and welcomed the new members into the global Seventh-day Adventist Church. Cundiff also thanked the leaders and church members for their roles in leading souls to Christ.

Peter Simpson, Hispanic Ministries coordinator, shared his experience about the event, praising God and stressing that evangelism would continue in the Ohio territory: “This is just the conclusion of the

initiative but not the conclusion of the gospel. We are pushing the gospel. We are still calling people to be part of this church.”

Most individuals who were baptized during the ceremony represented Hispanic churches within the conference, notes José D. Espósito, assistant to the president for Evangelism at the Columbia Union Conference.

“We praise the Lord for our brethren at the Ohio Conference who worked passionately to fulfill the mission,” says Espósito, “and are thankful for our new members who now share the everlasting hope of Jesus’ second coming.”

Armando Girón López, the 2,023rd person to be baptized during the conference’s 2023 Initiative, holds a family Bible that was gifted to him by Bob Cundiff, conference president.

Bob Cundiff, conference president, and Peter Simpson, Hispanic Ministries coordinator, conduct baptisms at Delaware Beach Park.

The candidates walk toward the baptismal waters.

photos by carolina simpson and francis tuffour

Blue Mountain Academy Family Inspires New Student

João Gabriel Ramos Marques’ mother prayed for her son. She knew his friends were a bad influence on him and saw the poor choices he was making. She believed that God would change her son and the direction of his life.

“My mother never gave up on me, despite my rebellious actions,” shares Marques. “She sent me to Faculdade Adventista da Amazonia, an Adventist school in Brazil, in hopes that I could find truth and Jesus.”

There Marques learned about Blue Mountain Academy (BMA). “I quickly became interested in attending BMA to have the opportunity to start a new life, learn a new language and meet new friends.”

He did, indeed, begin making new friends, but wasn’t getting anything out of the Adventist beliefs and worship services held at the academy. Rafael Tavares, a resident advisor, noticed Marques and began praying for him. The two began meeting each night to pray and study together.

“I started investing in my spiritual life,” says Marques. “I knew my mother, my BMA friends and staff were praying for me. I decided that I wanted to be baptized.”

Marques began studying with Adam Bially and Tony Gil, BMA pastors, and as a result, Bially baptized Marques before the school year ended (pictured).

“Even though it took time for me to grow, they constantly encouraged me,” Marques says. “As a result of what God has done in my life, my family has been convicted to turn to Jesus too.”

Why Adventist Education?

Today, students face many challenges, pressures and temptations. Seventh-day Adventist education, however, offers young people and their parents a foundation of Christian values and academic excellence.

Academic Achievement. Students in Adventist schools, on average, place half a grade higher nationally in all subjects than other students. More than 85 percent of graduates from an Adventist school go on to college. In Adventist schools, the goal of academic achievement is always paired with the aim of developing a relationship with the Creator—an unbeatable combination!

Biblical values. Adventist schools offer a Bible-based curriculum, teaching students that their faith can be prevalent in every part of their lives.

Christian character development. Adventist education is transformative in the lives of students, equipping them to grow in their personal relationship with Christ, teaching them to serve others and helping them become all that God intends them to be.

Classroom culture. Framed by a Christian worldview and underscored with biblical principles, Adventist schools offer students a safe environment where they can explore carefully, think critically and reflect thoughtfully that which reflects God-centered values and lifestyle.

Family Atmosphere. Schools, homes and churches unite to create a safe and vibrant learning community with strong relationships, similar goals and a shared journey. Schools are intentionally structured to foster a sense of family and belonging.

Student-teacher ratio. Students receive more individualized attention and instruction in a smaller setting. The multigrade classroom prepares them for working with and building friendships with people of all ages.—Leona Bange, Superintendent of Education

Faith-Filled Journey of Evangelism Transforms Church

“It’s been a wild, faith-filled journey,” shares Andrew Abbott, pastor of the Seneca church. “I wrestled between being realistic with our challenges and having faith-based optimism about what God can do.”

Abbott and the members of Seneca wanted to share the gospel, but didn’t know where to begin meeting people and building relationships. Then in December, they became one of the 29 churches in Pennsylvania Conference’s Church Regeneration initiative.

“It was an ‘aha moment’ for us when Stewart Lozensky, [Church Regeneration director], showed us what it would look like to have evangelism at the center of everything we do,” Abbott says. “The Great Commission needs to be our focus. It really motivated us. We are a small team, but members began planning connecting events like ‘Dinner with the Doctor’ and a concert with Jamie Jorge, a renowned violinist.”

Seneca’s journey also included the conference’s Winsome Witnessing training videos program. Attendees learned how to give Bible studies, go door-to-door with surveys and follow up with those interested in learning more. The training explained the simple process and empowered members to put it into practice. As they did, they met people who shared their challenges and hunger to learn more about God.

“It’s easy to think that no one will be interested in the gospel,” Abbott explains. “But you begin getting into the community, chatting with people, and you see that the Holy Spirit is moving and creating a hunger in hearts to know more about Jesus.”

Guests outnumbered members as more than 30 people attended Seneca’s spring “Revelation Speaks” seminar—one of 107 evangelistic meetings scheduled across the Pennsylvania this year. As the series ended, member Donna Bertha invited those

Get Equipped for Ministry

Learn more about Church Regeneration at paconference.org/church-regeneration.

Watch the Winsome Witnessing training videos at paconference.org/winsome-witnessing.

Check out the Prophecies of Hope Bible study lessons at Prophecy of Hope Series on YouTube.com.

interested to small group Bibles studies. Seven people joined her as she shared the Prophecies of Hope Bible study lessons.

The Winsome Witnessing training videos, featuring Gary Gibbs, conference president, were recently updated and refilmed at the conference’s Mission and Evangelism Center and are now available for those who want a simple way to share a Bible study.

“I am so proud of our members and how hard they’ve worked,” Abbott concludes. “This journey has grown us stronger as a team and deepened our faith in God.”

Yves Monnier, conference Ministerial and Evangelism director, shares, “The journey of the Seneca church embodies what is happening across the Pennsylvania Conference: small churches coming back to life through a renewed focus on actively sharing Jesus. Please help us keep the positive momentum by investing in our conference’s evangelism offering. Without your ongoing support, the story from Seneca would be very different.”

Scan the QR code to learn more about and/or register for upcoming events.

Andrew Abbott, pastor of the Seneca church, preaches at the “Revelation Speaks” seminar.

Ministerial Spouses Firmly Root, Grow Together

The Potomac Conference ministerial spouses braved the heavy rain, limited visibility and congested roadways to attend a gathering planned just for them. Spouses traveled from Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., to connect with each other during a recent weekend retreat in Cambridge, Md. (pictured). The gathering was the first time in more than 30 years that ministerial spouses in the Potomac Conference could come together to experience ministry prepared specifically for their hearts and souls.

At the event, Maya Thomas, a psychologist, and her husband, Sanjay, a lawyer and entrepreneur, shared a skills assessment that helped spouses discover or reinforce their love languages. Paul Anderson, former director of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries for the North American Division (NAD), presented an engaging and encouraging workshop titled, “Surviving the Storms of Ministry.” Joanne and Jose Cortes Jr., pastor of Beltsville church’s DC Campus, and associate ministerial director of Evangelism for NAD, respectively, shared their unique journey as dual pastors, which makes each of them a pastor’s spouse. They spoke about tenaciously pursuing the call while prioritizing their family in ministry.

The evening concluded with a luau, including Polynesian food, tropical drinks and a lei for each attendee. Guests were intrigued as Hawaiian-born ministerial spouse Adrinna Beltre shared the historical perspective of the luau. She explained the meaning of different Hawaiian words and hand gestures and performed a beautiful hula for the guest. Ministerial spouse Deana Siologa, born and raised in American Samoa, shared her journey of becoming a Seventh-day Adventist while living in Hawaii.

Reflecting on the organization’s diversity, Maureen Tapp, director of the Ministerial Spouse’s

Association and wife of Charles A. Tapp, conference president, says, “We are blessed in the Potomac Conference to have such a diverse group of constituents. We come from different countries and speak different languages. We worship through cultural filters, but what unites us is God’s calling on each of our lives—to be good stewards of our gifts in service to His people. It is a joy to celebrate our culture and our calling.”

To stay connected, Potomac Conference spouses have formed cohorts they refer to as SEED Groups. The mission of these groups is to support, encourage, empower and demonstrate God’s love to the ones they’ve been called to partner with in service.

Ministerial spouse Suranny Sarria, a member of the event’s planning committee, says “God’s Holy Spirt was in our midst. In the end, we left recharged and equipped to continue our ministry for Him.”

“Potomac Conference spouses are firmly planted in God’s will and His Word,” adds Maureen. “They are growing together and planting seeds of love and influence with their ministry colleagues and partners. They desire that the seeds they sow today will sprout spiritual fruit for tomorrow, nourishing their families, church members and the body of Christ.”

Ministerial spouses Gilberto Marroquin, Keith Johnston, Wesley Jobe, Maureen Tapp, Paul Anderson, Kelan Fielder and Keith Roberts attend the weekend retreat together.

photos by richard castillo

Spelling Bee Produces Lots of Buzz

After months of preparation, 13 eager and wellprepared students from the Potomac Conference nervously took the stage at the Fredericksburg (Va.) church to compete in the conference-wide Spelling Bee—the first time in at least 10 years since the conference-sponsored event was held.

Participants in grades 3–8 represented C. F. Richards Christian School in Staunton, Va.; Olney Adventist Preparatory School (Md.); Roanoke Adventist Christian School (Va.); Takoma Academy Preparatory School (TA Prep) in Takoma Park, Md.; and Tree of Life Christian Preparatory School in Fredericksburg, Va.

For six months, Janet Armstrong, associate education superintendent for the southern portion of Potomac Conference, and a team of principals met to plan the event. Principals Jacqueline Powell-Long of Roanoke Adventist Christian School; Drechelle McCray of TA Prep; Chris Simons of Olney Adventist Preparatory School; Brad Simmons of C.F. Richards Christian School; and Billy Wright of Tree of Life Christian School gathered to form plans as excitement built through the schools.

At the event, parents, siblings, teachers and principals waited anxiously for the students to begin spelling the words they’d been practicing for months.

Armstrong says, “It was obvious the students

were well prepared, as it took more than 10 rounds before the first misspelling. Over 25 rounds were completed before two winners were declared.”

The first-place distinction was shared between students Dejagaye Brunell of Roanoke Adventist Christian School and Faye Legg of C. F. Richards Christian School. Daniel Majdi of Tree of Life Christian School received second place, and Jackson Passman, also from Roanoke, won third place.

Treasury Implements New Software Program

The Potomac Conference Treasury team recently underwent training with a new software program that will help them work more effectively and efficiently to better serve the needs of the organization and its local churches.

Under the guidance and expert assistance of North American Division’s Adventist Church Treasury Solutions team, the Treasury team (pictured) implemented a new web-based accounting software that allows real-time analysis of data and is fully integrated with the payroll software the conference has been using for several years.

According to Karen Senecal, vice president of Finance for the conference, the training week was intense, but very effective.

Daryl Hevener, the longest-serving member of the Treasury team, states, “I’m enjoying the capabilities of the new package.”

The software is also integrated with the Jewel software system that many of the Potomac

Conference churches use. This allows the church remittance reports to be sent electronically and eliminates the need for data entry of the reports at the conference office. The software also stores source documents, which allows team members to view documents from anywhere. During the next few months, the Treasury team will be training the church treasurers in this simple procedure.

Charles A. Tapp, Potomac Conference president, served as pronouncer at the Spelling Bee.

Charles A. Tapp, Potomac Conference conference, is flanked by spelling bee winners Faye Legg, Jackson Passman, Daniel Majdi and Dejagaye Brunell.

photos by richard castillo

The Sky Is Not the Limit for One Senior

“I’ve always aspired to become a pilot,” says Abner Lozano.

As a sophomore, Lozano learned his dream could come true at Blue Mountain Academy (BMA) through the aviation program offered on campus by Training Mission Aviation. He enrolled in ground school his junior year and began flying soon after that.

“We learned how to check the oil on the engine of the aircraft, add fuel and conduct pre-flight checks before taking off,” he shares. “We also trained to handle any emergency—engine failure, fire in the aircraft and radio failure. These are only a few of the lessons taught. During free periods or on Sundays, I could fly with my instructor.”

Soon Lozano was ready for his first solo. He also made five long-distance flights this year as a senior. And at only 17 years old, he received his private pilot license.

“I never thought I could accomplish this dream at such a young age, but I give thanks to the opportunities provided at the academy,” says Lozano. He is excited about continuing to work toward becoming a pilot in the airline industry. But flying isn’t the only thing he accomplished at BMA.

“Not only did I grow academically at BMA, but spiritually. Even though I am a pastor’s kid, I have experienced Jesus differently. While here, I’ve felt convicted to read the Bible and reflect more deeply. I’ve also become more independent; being away from home, I had to learn how to manage my time, care for my personal needs and choose my friends wisely.”

Eric Engen, a flight instructor for Training Mission Aviation, says, “We not only teach the skills needed to fly airplanes, but we also bring in mission pilots

and people currently working in the aviation world to our classes to speak about what it’s like to be a pilot. Training to become a pilot has helped Lozano become a better student in his other subjects as well,” says Engen. “Students study aeronautical decision-making, which helps when making decisions in real-life situations. It brings a maturity and focus that helps students handle other areas too.”

Lozano encourages others to pursue their dreams at BMA, saying, “I hope you, too, can join the BMA experience and learn that not even the sky is the limit.”

To learn more about BMA or to register, visit bma.us. The 2023–24 school year begins August 21, 2023.

Devoted Administrative Assistant Retires

With mixed emotions, Blue Mountain Academy (BMA) announces the retirement of Rosemary Eyer, the school’s administrative assistant and attendance officer who served at BMA for 22 years. Students and staff will miss her competence and kindheartedness and thank her for sharing God’s love through her words and actions. The BMA family wishes Eyer a retirement filled with many blessings.

Eric Engen, a flight instructor for Training Mission Aviation, helps students like Abner Lozano accomplish their dreams of flying.

‘Undivided’: A Conference-Wide Concert

Faculty and staff praise the Lord for the many blessings He bestowed upon Lake Nelson Adventist Academy (LNAA) throughout the 2022–23 school year. These blessings have come in the form of protection, students giving their lives to Jesus, and many opportunities for individuals to share their God-given talents with the community, say leaders.

To that end, LNAA and the other elementary schools and junior academies in the New Jersey Conference (NJC)—Tranquility Adventist School, Vine Haven Adventist School, Waldwick Junior Academy, and Meadow View Junior Academy—joined to be a blessing to the greater NJC community.

This year marked the first New Jersey Conference-wide concert that highlighted the musical talents of all its schools. Led by LNAA music teachers Henoc Morrobel and Mahaleth Forbes, and in partnership with Daniel Arrabato, the music teacher at the other schools, all five schools performed a concert at the Maranatha Haitian church in Newark. Students from each school performed instrumental and choir pieces. Under the direction of Morrobel, the LNAA band and orchestra showcased their many hours of practice. To close the program, a mass choir of students and soloists from all the schools sang the song, “Undivided.” Attendees

share the song was a powerful ending to a beautiful evening.

This concert served as a culmination of a year of collaboration. LNAA has had the privilege of serving three other schools— Tranquility, Vine Haven, and Waldwick—in the education partnership to serve their high school-level students. The concert provided an opportunity for all the students in the NJC to come together to praise the Lord through music. Through instrumentals, praise and worship, choral pieces, and the spoken word, the Lord was praised and spirits were uplifted.

As Elisa Maragoto, LNAA principal and NJC education superintendent, appropriately states, “The Lord has surely blessed our conference’s schools with talented students, teachers, staff, administrators, supportive parents and communities. We thank God for His loving care and look forward to more opportunities to praise the Lord and minister together as an ‘undivided’ New Jersey Conference Education Department.”

With nearly 800 attendees from across the NJC, they say worshipping God together provided a truly unified, “undivided” experience.

The Lake Nelson Adventist Academy Elementary Orchestra, conducted by Henoc Morrobel, performs during the “Undivided” music festival.

Senior David Velez prepares to introduce the next performance during the program.

Aviation Students Take First Private Flight

This year, Pine Forge Academy (PFA) added Aviation 100 to its credit-bearing elective course offerings. The academy partnered with BMRI High School Aviation STEM Co-op, which uses a curriculum created by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation. The course is a four-year program aligned to Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airman Certification Standards. The curriculum consists of two Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways: pilot and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). At the conclusion of four years, students will have the knowledge to sit for their private pilot or their UAS license and be ahead of others entering college-level aviation programs.

Twelve students—10 male and two female— chose the elective course. “The aviation industry is in desperate need of pilots, and now our students can have the exposure and experiences they need to see themselves filling this gap,” says instructor Tracey Jackson.”

Jackson continues, “The BMRI co-op and the AOPA provided everything I needed to teach the course. … However, I was still a little uneasy, since I do not fly myself. So I visited one of our

local airports to inquire about any assistance they could offer. I knew God had led me there when the president of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1250 and the manager of the Heritage Field Airport told me, ‘We’ve been waiting for you to walk in here for 100 years.’ They had been trying to get into local public schools for years but could never work through the red tape. That meeting connected me to Bill Dupree, my co-teacher, a semi-retired aerospace engineer and private pilot owner of a 1980 Cessna 172.”

After the PFA students studied aerospace and aviation theory/history, engineering innovations and practices, and FAA safety laws and regulations, Dupree, with his dedication to the academy and many years of experience, arranged for a private event with the Young Eagles EAA Chapter 1250.

Young Eagles is a national organization that gives youth opportunities to fly in a general aviation airplane for free. Their Saturday events exclude PFA participation, so Dupree coordinated a private Sunday event. Two other volunteer pilots, Carl Danslow and Wayne Halbsgut, also helped by offering plane rides.

The flights left from Heritage Field Airport, and for 15 to 20 minutes, the students rode around sections of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, including PFA’s campus. Each plane had dual pilot cockpits, allowing daring front seat passengers a chance to try their hand at the controls.

At the conclusion, each student received a Young Eagles Certificate, a flight logbook, and their name was later entered into the EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh, Wis.

Sophomore Akira Johnson buckles in for her flight in a Wayne Halbsgut home built Van’s RV-7A aircraft.

An Exciting and Memorable Alumni Weekend!

their eyes, many attendees joined students in singing “We Have This Hope.” The Pattersons spoke about the “seasons” of life. Students and alumni sang the traditional “Hallelujah” chorus to close the service, followed by honor class photos and lunch.

At this year’s Alumni Weekend, excitement and laughter were felt and heard throughout each generation represented. The big event that students, faculty and alumni had worked hard for went off without a hitch.

Friday morning, the Alumni Golf Tournament started things off with players and sponsors filling the roster to raise more than $54,000 toward installing Shenandoah Valley Academy’s (SVA) ballfield lighting.

Friday evening, alumni enjoyed haystacks in the cafeteria. Many shared stories as members of the 2023 Senior Honor Class made new alumni friends. At vespers, alumni and students led praise team and performed special music. Weekend speakers and alumni Geoff and Alicia Patterson (’83), pastor of the Boulder (Col.) church and grief counselor/ lecturer, respectively, spoke about one’s response to loss in the context of the biblical story of Jacob.

Sabbath morning, alumni caught up with friends in the new gym lobby and portico. Kelli Hanon (’88), alumni president, invited honor class representatives to read the roll call. Especially celebrated was 80th honor class member Bernice Davidson (’43), whose sparkle and energy inspired attendees. Students cheered for Shane Anderson, campus pastor, as he received an honorary diploma, as well as for current faculty honor class members Kelly Wiedemann (’03), associate music director, and Jonathan Burishkin (’03), IT director.

Students in the Music Department performed throughout the worship service (above). With tears in

Sabbath afternoon, attendees celebrated the Zirkle Gym ribbon cutting and rededication ceremony for the completion of the gym building project (pictured). Charles A. Tapp, SVA board chair and Potomac Conference president, led the prayer of rededication. Alumni Howard and Louise Phanstiel (’76) were presented with the Dale E. Twomley Pillar Award for their visionary leadership and dedication to sustaining the school and students. The ceremony was filled with special thanks to the donors, faculty, staff, builders and volunteers who made the project possible, ending with a dessert reception.

Saturday night, at the eagerly anticipated alumni basketball game, the girls’ varsity played the alumni ladies. The alumni reclaimed their championship title, as their determination led them to the win. The boys’ varsity played next, beating the alumni men 104-74.

Sunday morning, a Principal’s View breakfast for alumni featured harp and strings students. Alumni and specially invited student guests enjoyed a mixer game to learn more about student life today.

At the final event, the SVA boys’ soccer team played the alumni and won. Many say it was great to be back in the gym again with all the special traditions, and it will be hard to top this year’s exciting and memorable Alumni Weekend!—Anisa Phillip (’23)

High School Musicians Share Their Talents on Tour

The Spencerville Adventist Academy Concert Winds traveled to Massachusetts earlier this year for their first-ever concert tour.

The group performed for a Friday vespers program at the Stoneham (Mass.) Memorial church, located about 10 miles from Boston. They spent Sabbath at the College church in Northampton, Mass., located adjacent to the former campus of Atlantic Union College. There the students participated in the worship service and presented an afternoon concert.

The music tour provided opportunities for the students—who mostly associate with others in their own instrument sections—to get to know each other outside of rehearsal. “We bonded a lot,” says Victoria Halverstadt. “As a freshman, I made more friends with the upperclassmen.”

Lisa Froelich, director, especially enjoyed the time spent at the Stoneham church. “We performed for their newly started vespers series,” she shares. “It’s a smaller-sized church, so I wasn’t sure how 46 players, plus percussion equipment, would fit in the space provided. It turned out to be the best surprise, creating perfect acoustics. The students said it was the first time they could truly hear each other, and many agreed it was the best they had ever played. The congregation was also moved by the stories that I shared behind the music being performed. … They expressed their gratitude by a surprise standing ovation at the end.”

The students lingered for almost an hour after the concert to talk with the Stoneham church members. “There was a different happiness that we experienced being able to see the genuine appreciation and warmth from the faces of the audience. They were kind and so thankful and made me feel like we had really touched their hearts and reached them,” says Leighvanni Kennedy, a junior.

“Normally, we perform for parents and our own Spencerville church community,” adds Froelich. “This time, we took our talents on the road and performed for people who may not have heard of our school before. It automatically raised the bar and the students rose to the occasion. … I’m proud of this outstanding group of students.”

Senior Amandine Moorooven comments, “Going on the band tour made me realize why I started band in the first place and why I keep loving it every day. It was so nice to grow closer as a band and show God’s love through the music that we played.”

To watch the performance at the College church, visit youtube.com/watch?v=4zD7otdEbKw.

The 46-member ensemble fills the Stoneham church with beautiful music.

Junior Malachi McRoy plays the saxophone during the Concert Winds music tour.

photos by mark froelich

Darren Wilkins Departs, Leaves Behind Legacy

“I always said that Spring Valley Academy (SVA) would be my final principal position because I couldn’t imagine any place better to be.”

This was Darren Wilkins’ message to his staff and community as he announced his departure from SVA for a career opportunity at Walla Walla University (Wash.) as vice president for Student Life. As he prepares for his next adventure, the SVA community feels the loss of the blessing that his 10-year tenure has been for the school.

Wilkins joined the SVA team in 2013, after serving as principal at Mount Ellis Academy (Mont.) for 12 years. He began his time at SVA by promising the school that “nobody has it better than we do”—and he proceeded to prove that.

As SVA’s leader, he made his mark tangibly through the construction of the Fritzsche Center for Worship and Performing Arts in 2018, and the Dean and Trudy Johnson High School Wing in 2023. Enrollment increased from some 300 students to its current all-time high of 515 students, and the student population diversified as Wilkins’ fulfilled his pledge to make SVA accessible to all Seventh-day Adventist students. His vision was made possible by utilizing resources such as EdChoice—an Ohio State scholarship program—and by adding bus routes. Wilkins, himself, got a Class C license to drive the routes when bus drivers were in short supply.

His true legacy is less tangible. Wilkins is a scholar of the world and a chaser of adventure, and he provided his students with a window to the world by offering dynamic trips to Europe. He is interested in every child’s story and in the many cultures they represent. He led mission trips to Kenya and Peru and shared his passion for the Lord, kindness and excellence with every student.

The SVA community recently gathered for a send-off, and many students, staff, parents and community members took to the open mic to share experiences they’ve had with Wilkins. One after another, they spoke of Wilkins’ vision, his enthusiasm, his sense of humor, his compassion and his leadership. Many remembered Wilkins showing up at

their doorstep during the pandemic lockdown with a fresh loaf of Jordan Steffen’s bread. That single act epitomized his impact: a leader who cared for every student and family, who utilized his talents to connect with others, and who believed in SVA—even during the most difficult of times. SVA wishes him well, and he will be greatly missed! —Lisa Moller, High

School English Teacher

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Aug. 15: First Day of School

Aug. 19: Convocation Sabbath

Aug. 28–Sept. 1: Elementary and Middle School

Week of Prayer

Sept. 15: High School Band Vespers Concert

Sept 17: Fall Festival

Sept. 27–30: Senior Survival at Camp Mohaven

Class of 2023 Tigers Roar Into Next Phase of Life

Takoma Academy’s (TA) Class of 2023 recently celebrated its graduation weekend with its consecration and baccalaureate services at Sligo church in Takoma Park, Md. This year’s graduation ceremonies honored 58 students who persevered and completed the requirements necessary to now be called alumni of one of Potomac Conference’s largest high schools.

On Sabbath, Carlton Byrd (pictured), speaker/ director of the Breath of Life Television Broadcast, and whose niece, Cailyn Sterling, is a member of the graduating class, spoke for the baccalaureate service. Byrd’s sermon focused on four key character traits for success: purpose, preparation, perseverance and proclamation.

Graduating senior Santana Robinson says, “That was one of the best sermons that I’ve heard in a long time! Pastor Byrd reminded us that you have to plan for the future in order to be successful. He also warned us that you have to realize that the friends you have now might not be a part of your destiny, and you have to be prepared for that.”

Sunday morning, Jheanelle K. Wilkins (pictured), Maryland delegate for District 20, spoke for the commencement service. According to biographical information provided by her team, “Delegate Wilkins is the vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee where she also chairs the Subcommittee

on Election Law, leading the House in passing election policy and expanding voter access for incarcerated individuals and expansion of early voting sites.”

Wilkins is no stranger to TA. In 2019, she hosted TA students at the Maryland House of Delegates, and this year, a few graduating seniors met with her there on a field trip.

Senior Lysle Follette recaps Wilkins’ commencement address: “Delegate Wilkins spoke about being the first African-American woman to represent Maryland’s District 20. Immediately, this drew pictures of barriers being broken, and her perseverance inspired me and galvanized me to go and break some barriers of my own.”

Graduation weekend was filled with excitement, as the Class of 2023 began a new chapter in their lives. During the commencement service, Madison Evans, class pastor, charged her peers with the following statement: “No matter the different accomplishments that we might be blessed to put on our resumes, there is only one thing that will matter when Christ comes, and that is having our name written in the Book of Life. Is heaven going to be our home?”

After the tassel ceremony, the Class of 2023 graduates celebrate with selfies.

Framing Optimal Results

Have you ever thought about the way in which a frame around a photo or work of art changes the way we see and appreciate it? Or thought about why we also frame certificates or diplomas? Humankind has been making frames for centuries –to protect, showcase and add artistic expression. Furthermore, we even say that important events and experiences have defining characteristics that shape and “frame” them.

At Adventist HealthCare, our very Mission to extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing is realized within the framework of our RISES Values:

• Respect: We recognize the infinite worth of every individual.

• Integrity: We are conscientious and trustworthy in everything we do.

• Service: We care for our patients, their families and each other with compassion.

• Excellence: We do our best every day to exceed expectations.

• Stewardship: We take ownership to efficiently and effectively extend God’s care. Respect for each person enables us to both communicate and connect, creating a supportive environment where patients can feel valued and understood. When we follow through and do what we promise, we demonstrate integrity and strengthen the confidence that patients have in the care they receive. Our service is rooted in compassion and effectiveness – to every person, every time – which combine to bring both hope and healing. The continuous pursuit of improvement and desire to exceed expectations fuels our value of excellence. And finally, our commitment to stewardship motivates our responsible management and allocation of resources, allowing us to more effectively serve those entrusted to our care.

Our Adventist HealthCare Values provide the framework that guides us to deliver high-quality care and the most positive patient experience.

Terry Forde President and CEO Adventist HealthCare

Groundbreaking Celebrates Start of Shady Grove Medical Center’s Tower Construction

Adventist HealthCare hospital leaders and caregivers welcomed community partners and government officials for a joyous groundbreaking event to mark the start of construction for the new patient tower at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. The ceremony featured a commemorative set of shovels, each one decorated by a hospital unit with art symbolizing the themes of care, compassion and community.

Adventist HealthCare President and CEO Terry Forde discussed Shady Grove’s importance within the Adventist HealthCare system and acknowledged the work of numerous people in making the tower a reality. “Many committed team members have worked hard over the years to study our delivery of care in light of our community’s evolving needs. They listened, studied, proposed, designed and advocated for facilities to bring next-level care to Shady Grove.”

Shady Grove Medical Center President Dan Cochran affirmed this visionary planning saying, “When the pandemic came, it left no doubt: Hospitals needed to be ready to adapt to unpredictable emergencies. We need rooms that enhance the care and comfort of the critically ill. We need to create a healing environment that nurtures and supports our healthcare workers – because as the world worked from home, this hospital was their home.”

When the tower opens in 2025, it will feature:

• A modernized and more spacious Emergency Department

• A larger, state-of-the-art Intensive Care Unit

• A new Medical-Surgical Unit with all-private patient rooms

• Updated patient units, including one for medical observation and one for emergency mental health conditions

• Repositioned critical care services, such as the hospital’s Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology Unit, that will create better efficiencies for patients and caregivers

• Relocation of the helipad to its rooftop

• Eco-friendly elements, including a 20,000-square-foot green roof and outdoor patios for families and team members

Nurses and other team members representing units and services within the new tower joined Adventist HealthCare President and CEO Terry Forde and hospital President Dan Cochran for the first dig.

We extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing.

– Living Our Mission to Extend Cod’s Care

Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center Awarded ‘A’ Safety Grade

Supporting Leadership Health

Adventist HealthCare provided health screenings and provider visits for a group of international church leaders visiting the General Conference in Silver Spring, Md., in April.

“It was an honor for our team to meet this group of world church leaders and highlight our health ministry in action,” says System Medical Director for Physician Enterprise at Adventist HealthCare Mary Kim, M.D. Team members administered blood pressure, cholesterol and other health screenings, and also provided valuable health information about risk factors and prevention strategies for serious or chronic health conditions.

STRIDES O F SUCCESS

Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation was excited to host over 200 participants at their annual Amputee Awareness 5K Walk, Wheel or Run event this spring. According to the Amputee Coalition Organization, almost 2 million Americans have experienced amputations or were born with limb difference. Another 28 million people in our country are at risk for amputation. And about 500 amputations occur in the United States daily. This year’s event honored Chief Medical Officer for Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation Dr. Terrence Sheehan and Chief Operating Officer of Regenerative Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Colin Potts for their dedication to helping people who have experienced limb loss achieve optimal mobility and independence. Nearly $50,000 was raised, which will help Adventist HealthCare provide state-of-the-art, personalized care as well as fuel the patient assistance fund.

The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit upholding patient safety standards in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, awarded Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center an “A” Hospital Safety Grade. This national distinction celebrates White Oak Medical Center’s achievements in prioritizing patient safety.

“I am incredibly proud of our team for their dedication to achieve this milestone and receive an ‘A’ from Leapfrog,” says President of Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center Anthony Stahl. “While the last few years have been challenging, our team’s commitment remained: to improve patient safety and provide a world-class experience to every patient.”

The Leapfrog Group, an independent, peer-reviewed national watchdog organization, assigns grades to general hospitals across the country based on more than 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm.

The Serenity Spot

Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center’s Behavioral Health Services and Rio Lakefront, a popular restaurant and shopping destination in Gaithersburg, Md., have partnered to create a unique mental health space called The Serenity Spot.

The permanent installation is designed to be a resting space along the Adventist HealthCare Path to Wellness trail at Rio where users can connect to a calming Adventist HealthCare-curated playlist while they sit and reflect. The space features nature-themed art and colored glass to enhance the serene environment and promote awareness of mental health support options.

Gathering for Prayer

By Christina Keresoma

Prayer may feel like you’re talking to nothing or no one. But God always listens. He may not answer you right away or with what your heart desires, but He always provides an answer.

We are blessed to live in a country where we can openly pray and enjoy religious freedoms. A special day—the first Thursday in May—has even been dedicated to prayer called The National Day of Prayer. As a faith-based institution, the chaplains at Kettering Health rise to the occasion to organize special prayer activities around their campuses. One campus made special prayer boxes and cards that were placed around the hospital. Another gathered groups of employees to walk and pray with other employees and patients. And some other hospitals arranged short programs where they sang songs, gave special prayers, and handed out awards to outstanding individuals.

In Steps to Christ, Ellen G. White says, “Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to Him” (p. 93).

Stefano Paris, chaplain at Soin Medical Center says: “As a pastor for 27 years and now a chaplain for eight months, I have had the opportunity to reflect on the deep meaning of prayer in the hospital setting. ‘Never cease to pray’ is the recommendation that comes to us from the apostle Paul. Prayer, in general, is as important and essential as rain falling on barren ground. In the hospital, prayer includes everyone. It supports the doctors who need to feel God close in their daily work; it encourages the weary nurses tested by exhausting shifts; and it comforts the sick or even the dying person who seeks relief from pain, healing, or forgiveness. Prayer welcomes the poor and the rich, the learned and the ignorant, and like the prayer of the thief on the cross, assures that salvation is for all.”

It is our belief that to best serve our communities we need our Heavenly Father’s guidance, and we will continually seek it through prayer.

Kettering Health Joins the Fun

We recently joined the rookies from the Cincinnati Bengals to play flag football and run football drills with students from Hays-Porter Elementary School in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Flag-In-School program donates NFL flag kits to physical education classes in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana to help local PE teachers build a foundation of healthy, lifelong physical activity for students.

We were so happy to support this initiative for the 2023-24 school year so that 100 new schools across Bengals Nation could receive free flag football kits. Who Dey!

Volunteers Called to Serve

During National Volunteers

Week, April 21–27, we honored volunteers across our entire system who give their time and talents to help us be our best every day.

In 2022, we had 1,155 volunteers donate 142,048 hours to our system, medical centers, physician offices, and retirement community. And 13 of those volunteers were more than 90 years old!

The volunteers serve in many important roles, including stocking and preparing rooms, driving the courtesy shuttles, folding linens, discharging patients, helping at the information desk or assembling kits for patients to take home—just to name a few.

Kettering College Opens New Simulation Lab

By Rebecca Ingle

Kettering College recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the new nursing simulation lab, called Lab C. Various faculty and staff attended the ceremony as well as Kettering Health leadership and executive council to commemorate the special day.

Lab C was created to address a growing need for the nursing program. In the fall of 2022, Kettering College welcomed their first cohort of nursing students into the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (A-BSN) track. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 15 months in this accelerated, full-time program.

Based on curriculum developed for the A-BSN program, a third lab was created to best serve those students. Lab C consists of five patient rooms and was designed to mirror the layout of the other two existing labs. The lab is equipped to simulate nursing skills currently required in the nursing program in a dedicated space where nursing students can grow their skills safely.

Nursing students will be able to perform a head-to-toe physical assessment using high-fidelity manikins. They will learn to perform a wide range of skills, including insertion/ discontinuation and care of an indwelling urinary catheter, IV fluids, and other medication.

The simulation lab incorporates advanced technology to simulate real-life patient situations in alignment with National Patient Safety Standards. The goal is to mimic a professional health care setting as closely as possible to prepare students as they move into the workforce, building their confidence as they expand their comfort and knowledge.

As is the case with the other simulation labs at Kettering College, the nursing faculty observe students from a control room, rather than being bedside. This directs the students’ attention to the patient rather than the instructor. Nursing faculty have noted that by putting students together, they start to understand what they need to do with each other and the patient. Learning becomes more collaborative instead of automatically looking to the faculty immediately for the answers.

Dr. Paula Reams, dean of Nursing, said, “Thank you to all that made this happen. Our A-BSN students will benefit from this space now and for many years to come. Having safe spaces to learn how to care for patients through simulation makes the transition to bedside nursing easier for the student. These new spaces for laboratory learning can be and will be used not only for nursing but for all health care professional students.”

A Time of Prayer Encourages Staff, Patients at White Oak Medical Center

In recognition of the National Day of Prayer, WGTS 91.9 staff gathered at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center to pray with staff and patients on May 4. “It was a blessing to unite to provide a space for prayer outside the hospital on National Day of Prayer,” shared Anthony Stahl, president of Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center. “This space brought together people of all faiths to pray and truly touched hearts and souls.”

Kevin Krueger, WGTS 91.9 president and CEO, says, “The medical environment is tough, and medical professionals face a lot of stress. We’re just happy we could be there to encourage those who encourage so many.”

A WGTS 91.9 tent with a sign that said “Prayer Stop,” was the location where doctors, nurses, staff, and patients could gather for prayer and to receive Bibles, devotionals, and other materials. Krueger, Ken Scribner, director of promotions, Tiffany Johnson, listener care coordinator, and Johnny and Stacey Stone, afternoon hosts, were there to pray with those who came.

Scribner says, “We prayed for safety, unity, renewal, endurance, hope, and joy at this prayer stop.”

Remembering the Takoma Park Tower, Broadcast System Strong at Arlington

The antenna at the former WGTS 91.9 studios on the campus of Washington Adventist University was dismantled earlier this year in February. This antenna system was constructed in 1965 after the station moved from the men’s dormitory into the General Services building. It was an upgrade from a 10-watt transmitter and a short antenna.

That upgrade consisted of a six-bay antenna with a 125-foot tower, and a transmitter, which generated 30,000 watts of power. Now the signal could reach beyond Takoma Park, Md., and into Washington, D.C., as well as parts of Baltimore to the north and Virginia to the south.

In 2004, WGTS moved the primary transmission location to a broadcast tower in Arlington, Va., with a power output of 23,500 watts, at a height of 696 feet. With the height increase and the new location, the listener base increased from 20,000 listeners to eventually, 500,000. Earlier this year, the Takoma Park transmitter and antennas were removed, and a backup transmission system was added at the Arlington site, allowing both the primary and backup systems to cover the entire metro region.

“As we give thanks for the many years of successful broadcasting at the transmission site in Takoma Park, Md., we think of the hundreds of staff members, and the many engineers who have built and maintained our broadcasting systems at this historic broadcast location for WGTS 91.9, says Kevin Krueger, president and CEO.

Joshua Pierce, WGTS 91.9 engineer; Kevin Krueger, president and CEO; and the tower climbing crew at the former WGTS 91.9 studios in Takoma Park, Md.

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EMPLOYMENT

PACIFIC UNION COLLEGE is seeking faculty positions for the 2023–24 academic year in the areas of History and Music. Major duties include the responsibilities of assessment, planning, development and implementation of classroom experiences and course objectives. We desire those who will be committed to a collaborative working environment, as well as those who possess dedication in furthering the goals of excellence in student success and critical thinking skills. Most importantly, we desire those interested in bringing students closer to Christ by nurturing the whole person and embracing concepts for lifelong learning. If you are interested, please contact Human Resources at HR@puc.edu, or call (707) 965-6231.

UNION COLLEGE seeks applicants for a boiler plant operator. This is a full-time position. This role is responsible for the operation and repair of HV/AC systems, transmission lines, and associated controls. See full job descriptions and instructions for application at ucollege.edu/employment, or contact Paul Jenks at paul.jenks@ucollege.edu.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time faculty in the area of Counseling for School of Education/ Psychology. A doctoral degree in counselor education from a CACREP-accredited program is required. Doctoral degrees in clinical or counseling psychology from APA-accredited program could be considered if applicant has been employed as full-time faculty member in a counselor education program for a minimum of one full academic year before July 1, 2023. For a full job description and desired qualifications, please visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time teaching faculty member for the School of Religion. The position would involve assisting in the Institute of Archaeology, including with its publications. Applicants should have a Ph.D. (or have made significant progress in a Ph.D. program) in the areas of archaeology and biblical studies and should be prepared

to teach courses in archaeology, biblical studies and biblical Hebrew. For a full job description, please visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time teaching faculty member with pediatric expertise to join a cohesive, mission-focused team for the School of Nursing. Teaching responsibilities include undergraduate pre-licensure child health and simulation. Requisite qualities include pediatric RN experience, flexibility and commitment to Adventist nursing education. Teaching experience and an earned doctorate are preferred. For a full job description and desired qualifications, please visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time Engineer teaching faculty member for Physics and Engineering Department in the areas of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering. The ideal candidate will be proficient in developing and teaching undergraduate engineering courses, including both lecture and laboratory components. Master's degree in mechanical, electrical or computer engineering or related area required. Doctorate preferred. Prior higher education teaching experience and/ or relevant industry experience preferred. For a full job description and desired qualifications, please visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time program director to launch a new Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program. The ideal candidate will be proficient in managing the CAPTE accreditation process, new program development and teaching graduate physical therapy courses as well as clinical practice. In addition, the successful candidate will be committed to mentoring advisees, nurturing student learning both in and out of the classroom and disciplining students in Jesus Christ. For a full job description and desired qualifications, please visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks qualified candidates for the following staff salaried positions: Marketing & University Relations

Director, Online Campus Teaching Technology Specialist, Academic Administration DHSI (Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions) Project Manager, Academic Administration Community Outreach Coordinator, Academic Administration Retention and Resilience Coordinator. For more information, visit southern.edu/jobs.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST

UNIVERSITY seeks qualified candidates for the following staff Hourly positions: Deli Associate, The Garden Eatery Assistant Manager, S.A.L.T. Outreach Coordinator for School of Religion, Office Manager for School of Education and Psychology, McKee Library Circulation Manager, CK2 Eatery PM Shift Supervisor, Alarm Technician and Electrician Master Technician. For more information, visit southern.edu/jobs.

MISCELLANEOUS

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SERVICES

ELTERNHAUS ASSISTED LIVING, Adventist family-owned and -operated, provides specialized care for seniors in a family homestyle setting. Delicious vegetarian food, activities, Friday night vespers and a shuttle to church Sabbath morning, just to name a few of the many options. Check out our newly updated website, elternhausalf.com. Elternhaus also offers a great work environment for Adventist caregivers, LPNs and RNs. Call Tim Mayer, (240) 286-3635.

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LEGAL NOTICES

PENNSYLVANIA CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS QUINQUENNIAL SESSION

The quinquennial session of the Pennsylvania Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Pennsylvania Conference Association of Seventh-day Adventists, Blue Mountain Academy and Adventist WholeHealth Network will convene at 9 a.m. on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Blue Mountain Academy in Hamburg, Pa.

The purpose of this meeting is to elect officers and trustees for the ensuing term, to receive reports and to transact such other business as may properly come before this full conference in session at that time.

An Organizing Committee to select the Nominating Committee and nominate the Constitution and Bylaws Committee will meet at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at the Harrisburg Seventh-day Adventist Church in Harrisburg, Pa.

Gary D. Gibbs, President Shawn R. Shives, Exec. Sec.

OBITUARIES

HICKERSON, Melvin Charles, born November 25, 1922, in Camden, N.J.; died December 18, 2021, in Dover, Del. Melvin

was drafted into the United States Army during World War II and served in the South Pacific. Upon returning, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Education at Delaware State College. In 1938, after studying the Bible with Pastor William L. Cheatham, Melvin was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He eventually became a lay pastor and later served on the executive committees of the Allegheny East and Columbia Union conferences. A member of Allegheny East Conference’s Bethuel church in Dover, for 83 years he was active in church planting, conducting tent meetings and giving Bible studies throughout Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He regularly preached, taught Sabbath School, assisted in Vacation Bible School, and directed and sang in the choir. Melvin is survived by his wife, Blanche H. Hickerson of Dover; son, Charles M. Hickerson of Chester, Pa.; daughter, Karen H. Hamlin of Dover; sister, Pauline Jackson of Tampa, Fla.; and sister, Peggy Fisher of Camden, N.J.

JACKSON, Helen Lorraine (Jacobs), born October 11, 1923, in Dover, Del., to the late John L. and Ollie Faber Jacobs; died April 11, 2021, in Blythedale, Md. Helen’s family moved to Wilmington, Del., in 1928, where she graduated from the Beacom Business College in 1942. Following graduation, Helen worked as a secretary to the area rent attorney for the State of Delaware Office of Price Administration. Helen married her husband, J. Leonard Jackson, January 16, 1943, and the couple later moved to

Blythedale, Md., where Helen lived until her death. Helen was an active member and church treasurer at the Blythedale church. Survivors: Helen’s daughter, Suzanne Jackson Newman (Dale) Harvey of Takoma Park, Md.; son, Edward (Diana) Jackson of Oakton, Va; grandchildren, Eric J. Newman (Cecilia) of Washington, D.C.; Laura S. (Humberto) Newman of Gaithersburg, Md.; William E. (Michelle) Jackson of Aldie, Va.; and Hermie Jackson of Richmond, Va; several nieces and nephews; and sister-inlaw, Esther M. Johnson of Port Deposit, Md. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband, J. Leonard Jackson; sisters, Genevieve J. Clement of Blythedale, Md.; Elizabeth Wiley of Holly Ranch, Texas; and brother, Ralph E. Jacobs of Atlanta, Ga.

BOGGESS, Alyce D., born March 15, 1938, in Amsterdam, Ohio; died June 20, 2021, in Casselberry, Fla. Alyce met her husband, Bob, while working on the Boggess farm, and they got married August 8, 1957. They moved to Takoma Park, Md., where they had two children, and then Berrien Springs, Mich., where they had two more. Afterward, they moved to Iowa where Alyce completed her education, becoming a registered nurse and helping Bob—a pastor—with evangelism for the Iowa Conference. Ministry stops took the couple to the North Pacific Union Conference, the Northern Union Conference and the New Jersey Conference, where Alyce served as an executive assistant. They later moved to

the Washington Conference. After ministering in the Miami (Fla.) Temple church, the couple retired—for the first time—in Orlando. But in 2010, Bob was asked to pastor the Spring Meadows church in Sanford, Fla., until he fully retired in 2020. Survivors: Her husband of 63 years; three sons: Bob

Sunset Calendar

(Joy) Boggess; Dave (Cindy) Boggess; and Tom (Alisha) Boggess; one daughter, MariAnne (Cody) Burns; one brother, Jim Baxter; seven grandchildren: Dori, Megan, Nicholas, Rachael, Ashley, Amy, John Robert and Quinton; three great-grandchildren: Jordan, Moses and Penelope.

Sunset times listed below are for the cities in which our eight conference headquarters reside. For a full listing of sunset times in the Columbia Union territory, please visit columbiaunionvisitor.com/sunset.