Columbia Union Visitor--November/December 2019

Contents photo by melvin donadelle jr.

ON THE WEB

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Archaeologists Uncover Clues About Women in Early Christianity

Carina O. Prestes

Biblical accounts in the New Testament mention Lydia, Phoebe, Priscilla and Junia who joined the early Christian church and served with the apostles. New research is helping to shed light on other women who may have aided the spread of Christianity.

The Legacy Lives On

Alita Byrd

Fifty years after Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse first gathered four young violinists to play music together in her living room, young musicians still feel her impact on and off stage.

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MAKING AN IMPACT Alumni of the New England Youth Ensemble (NEYE) have had a major impact on music and music education in the Seventh-day Adventist Church and in places like the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London and Carnegie Hall in New York City. Get to know more about them at columbiaunionvisitor.com/neyealumni.

BEYOND THE ENSEMBLE “She gave up her career to give us all one,” said Naomi Burns Delafield, concertmaster of the NEYE from 1994 to 2001, about Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse, NEYE founder and longtime conductor.

From a young age, Rittenhouse was acclaimed for her performances on violin and piano, as well as her compositions. She even toured around the world as a soloist.

Her contemporaries believed she could have created an even bigger profile for herself in the secular music world, yet she poured her efforts into the orchestra and its members instead. Read more about her music at columbiaunionvisitor. com/virginiagene.

SHARE YOUR CHURCH EVENTS Inform members around the Columbia Union of your events by emailing details, a photo and web address to visitor@columbiaunion.net. We will consider sharing them on social media, in the Visitor News Bulletin e-newsletter or on our website.

BOOK RELEASE: KEYS TO THE KINGDOM Bob Tate, a retired pastor and member of Ohio Conference’s Centerville church, recently released Keys of the Kingdom through TEACH Services. Read how he hopes the book will equip members to be more actively involved in sharing Christ at columbiaunionvisitor.com/keystothekingdom.

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Editorial rob vandeman

More Than a List Celeste Ryan Blyden n Editor and Publisher V. Michelle Bernard n News, Features and Online Editor Ricardo Bacchus n Newsletter Editor Kelly Butler Coe n Art Director and Designer Sandra Jones n Advertising and Circulation Manager The Visitor is a publication of the Columbia Union Conference reaching approximately 64,000 Seventh-day Adventist homes in the mid-Atlantic area and 81,000 online.

The Visitor provides news and information, inspiration for effective ministry and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help engage members in experiencing the mission.

CONTACT n (410) 997-3414 n columbiaunionvisitor.com visitor@columbiaunion.net n To subscribe, change address or discontinue Visitor mailings, call your local conference, as listed below. Ask for the membership clerk. Free to members.

All others, $20 annually. Email sjones@columbiaunion.net.

PUBLISHING BOARD n Dave Weigley (chair), Celeste Ryan Blyden (secretary), Jorge Aguero, Emmanuel Asiedu, William T. Cox Sr., Henry J. Fordham III, Gary Gibbs, Ron Halvorsen Jr., Mike Hewitt, Bill Miller, Rick Remmers, Rob Vandeman

5427 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, MD 21045 (410) 997-3414 n columbiaunion.org Dave Weigley n President Rob Vandeman n Executive Secretary Emmanuel Asiedu n Treasurer Celeste Ryan Blyden n Vice President, Communication and PR Frank Bondurant n Vice President, Ministries Development Walter Carson n Vice President/General Counsel and PARL Rubén Ramos n Vice President, Multilingual Ministries Donovan Ross n Vice President, Education H. Candace Nurse n Secretary/Treasurer, Revolving Fund Curtis Boore n Director, Plant Services Harold Greene n Director, Information Technology Tabita Martinez n Undertreasurer CONFERENCES ALLEGHENY EAST: Henry J. Fordham III, President; LaTasha Hewitt, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (610) 326-4610 n visitaec.com ALLEGHENY WEST: William T. Cox Sr., President; Benia Jennings, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (614) 252-5271 n awconf.org CHESAPEAKE: Rick Remmers, President; Andre Hastick, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (410) 995-1910 n ccosda.org MOUNTAIN VIEW: Mike Hewitt, President; Valerie Morikone, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (304) 422-4581 n mtviewconf.org NEW JERSEY: Jorge Aguero, President; Mario Thorp, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (609) 392-7131 n njcsda.org OHIO: Ron Halvorsen Jr., President; Heidi Shoemaker, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (740) 397-4665 n ohioadventist.org PENNSYLVANIA: Gary Gibbs, President; Tamyra Horst, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (610) 374-8331 n paconference.org

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POTOMAC: Bill Miller, President; Debra Anderson, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (540) 886-0771 n pcsda.org EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS KETTERING COLLEGE: Nate Brandstater, President; Lauren Brooks, Visitor Correspondent n Tel. (937) 395-8601 n kc.edu WASHINGTON ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY: Weymouth Spence, President; Richard Castillo, Visitor Correspondent Tel. (301) 891-4000 n wau.edu HEALTHCARE NETWORKS ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: Terry Forde, President & CEO; Thomas Grant, Visitor Correspondent Tel. (301) 315-3030 n adventisthealthcare.com KETTERING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: Fred Manchur, CEO; Christina Keresoma, Visitor Correspondent Tel. (937) 395-8167 n ketteringhealth.org Printed at Pacific Press® Publishing Association in Nampa, Idaho.

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T

he homiletics professor was not impressed with my sermon outline based on biblical genealogies. “Don’t preach from the lists!” he had scrawled across the top of my paper. Perhaps he was correct, but, then again, maybe not.

Take, for example, the list recorded in Romans 16.

A list of names, strange sounding names, that gives a profile of the church in Rome. Paul was in Corinth getting ready to go to Rome and then on to Spain.

As he sorts through his things, he begins to reflect and remember: Aquilla and Priscilla (illustrated, below) risked their lives for him; he was in prison with Andronicus and Junia; and Epaenetus was the first convert to Christ in Asia. There were others, including Rufus’ mother, a woman Paul claimed was also a mother to him. This is not just a list!

I remember the first time I saw the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It lists rows and rows of names, neatly etched into slabs of dark granite that form a long wall. I watched as a middle-aged woman ran her fingers over the letters to trace what was perhaps the name of her brother. Another woman held a child up so he could touch the name of a grandfather he would never know. I saw another woman kiss a name on the wall. Then I found Panel 34W Line 25 and traced with my fingers the name of my high school buddy, Byron Calkins.

This is more than a list!

The names listed in the letter in Romans 16 are extremely important to Paul, because even though he is saying hello, he is really saying goodbye. Oh, he’s going to Rome, but first he has to go to Jerusalem. He’s going into a nest of hostility. “Pray with me, agonize with me, that I won’t be killed by the unbelievers … and that I’ll get to come be with you” (Rom. 15:30–32, adapted). This is not about a list!

MAKE YOUR LIST Take time this holiday season to write down some names. Write down, like Paul did, the names of people who have been supportive along your journey; people who helped give shape and guidance to your life; people, who, without their assistance, you might not be in the church today.

Share the stories behind those names with family and friends. And where possible, send them a note and say, “I thank God every time I think of you …” (Phil. 1:3, adapted). Because for you, those names will always be more than a list.

Rob Vandeman serves the Columbia Union Conference as executive secretary, Human Resources director and Ministerial Department liaison.

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Newsline

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MULTILINGUAL MINISTRIES SETS 2020 GOALS

SUPERHEROES CONQUER 5K

Earlier this fall, these “Kiddie Dash” winners were among those who grabbed their capes and participated in Christalis’ Superhero 5K run/walk to support the organization’s home for children in Uganda.

More than 200 supporters registered for the event, held at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Md.

STUDENT LEADERS ATTEND SPIRITUAL RETREAT

This fall student leaders from all of the Columbia Union Conference junior and senior academies gathered with union education leadership in Edgewater, Md., for the annual Spiritual Academy Leadership Training (SALT) weekend.

Jonathan Lutterodt, junior class pastor at Ohio Conference’s Spring Valley Academy, says student leaders “may not have strength on our own, but God will always lead us.”

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“We want our student leaders to gain a better sense of their leadership responsibilities and how to meet them,” says Jacqueline Messenger, the Columbia Union’s associate director for secondary education and SALT coordinator. “We are also wanting to support their spiritual leadership on campus.”

Speaker Paul Graham encouraged the students during talks throughout the weekend. “Each student was born for a purpose.

Their purpose is simply obedience to their calling,” says the Potomac Conference pastor of both the Restoration Praise Center in Bowie, Md., and the Pennsylvania Avenue church in Capitol Heights, Md. “What better way to live out your true meaning by being obedient to the call on their lives.”

Summer Dekle, a first-time attendee and junior class treasurer at the Pennsylvania Conference’s Blue Mountain Academy, added, “This weekend has really helped me believe that I can step up and be a leader in my school.”—VMB and Monica Zill

During the September Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee meeting, Rubén Ramos, vice president for Multilingual Ministries, reiterated the department’s 2016–2021 goals of encouraging every member to become involved in sharing the gospel.

By the end of the quinquennium, Hispanic leaders would like to see Hispanic members give $20 million in tithe per year, up from $15.5 million in 2015, and plant 100 churches.

Ramos added that in 2020, they’d like to see 5,000 members committed to bringing a friend to Christ, establish 2,000 small groups and celebrate 3,500 baptisms.

Horacio Quiroga, pastor of Allegheny West Conference’s 6-month-old New Life church plant in Cincinnati, baptizes Brigni Aguilar.

At the beginning of the year, the union and conferences will sponsor a caravan that will travel through all the districts to inspire members to become involved in personal evangelism. The department will also convene a meeting with pastors and wrap up the year with a festival of evangelism.

CHURCHES DIG INTO BIBLICAL TRUTH

Chesapeake Conference’s Atholton church in Columbia, Md., was among the many churches

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photos by alejandro monchón, madhu tummalapalli, monica zill

Pastor Franke Zollman displays a storage jar from the time of David that attendees viewed during the Atholton church’s evangelistic meetings focused on biblical archaeology. around the Columbia Union that hosted community-focused fall evangelism meetings. In addition to Senior Pastor Franke Zollman’s presentations, titled “In Search of Meaning: Archaeology and the Bible,” attendees were invited to see his collection of artifacts from Bible times.

Ohio Conference’s Lorian church also hosted prophecy meetings with Pastor Randy Barber.

Pastor Michael Stough, II, Disciple Ohio coordinator, reports that while planning the event, Barber couldn’t find a suitable space. But after stopping by a facility, which seemed to be ideal, an employee told them that the venue was booked two years in

The number of churches planted in the Columbia Union territory in 2019

advance. After walking out, he walked back in, and said, “Would you humor me and look in your [calendar] and see what’s available at the end of September/beginning of October?”

To the employee’s surprise, the space was free during those exact times, and, as opposed to other venues that required setup and teardown each night, it offered the convenience of being able to keep the meeting set up during the entire time they rented the space.

Leaders report that 40 of the 100 opening night attendees were guests from the community. More guests joined later.

Stough notes that it is important for members to regularly engage in evangelism, including friendship evangelism. “We aren’t just coming to church to sit and worship and fellowship, which are important,” he said. “We have this powerful message, but what is it accomplishing if it is just sitting on the shelf gathering dust?”

REMEMBER YOUR LOVED ONES

As a free service to Columbia Union members, the Visitor staff places obituaries in the Bulletin

TOUGHING IT OUT

More than 100 participants, including Nohemí Mendoza, a member of the Elizabeth Spanish church, recently attended New Jersey Conference’s Master Guide Camporee at the Tranquility Valley Retreat Center in Andover, which included a 3K obstacle course.

Board section of the print magazine and website. Find out how to submit tributes at columbiaunionvisitor.com/obituary.

2020 CALENDAR COMING SOON!

For the 2020 Columbia Union Calendar, the Visitor staff teamed up with Pacific Press’ Vibrant Life magazine to offer inspirational, bite-sized healthy life suggestions.

“Hopefully this calendar will inspire people to try something new each month and take a step toward greater health and wellness,” says Heather Quintana, editor of Vibrant Life and principal contributor to the calendar.

The calendar will be mailed to members across the union in December. Beginning in January, additional copies will be available for the cost of shipping, while supplies last. To order, call Pacific Press at (800) 447-7377.

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Noticias

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de semana anual de Capacitación de Liderazgo de la Academia Espiritual (SALT).

“Queremos que nuestros líderes estudiantiles tengan una mejor idea de sus responsabilidades de liderazgo y cómo cumplirlas”, dice Jaqueline Messenger, coordinadora del evento y directora asociada de educación secundaria en la Unión de Columbia.—VMB y Monica Zill

PROFUNDIZE EN LA VERDAD BÍBLICA

La familia DiPinto, que asiste a la iglesia Sligo de la Conferencia de Potomac en Takoma Park, Maryland, se encontraba entre los que agarraron sus capas y participaron en la Superhéroe 5 km de Christalis para apoyar la organización Hogares para Niños en Uganda. Más de 200 simpatizantes se registraron para el evento, realizado en la Universidad Adventista de Washington en Takoma Park.

MINISTERIOS MULTILINGÜES ESTABLECE METAS PARA EL 2020

Durante la reunión del Comité Ejecutivo de la Unión de Columbia de septiembre, Rubén Ramos, vicepresidente de Ministerios Multilingües, reiteró los objetivos del departamento para el 20162021 de alentar a cada miembro a compartir el Evangelio.

Para fines del quinquenio, a los líderes hispanos les gustaría ver que los miembros hispanos contribuyeran $ 20 millones en diezmos por año, en comparación con los $ 15.5 millones en 2015, y que se planten 100 iglesias.

Ramos agregó que en el 2020 les gustaría ver a 5,000 miembros comprometidos a traer un amigo a Cristo, establecer 2,000 grupos pequeños y celebrar 3,500 bautizos.

A principios de año, la unión y las conferencias patrocinarán una caravana que viajará por todos los distritos para inspirar a los miembros a involucrarse en la evangelización personal. El departamento también convocará una reunión con pastores y concluirá el año con un festival de evangelismo.

LÍDERES ESTUDIANTILES SE REÚNEN PARA UN RETIRO ESPIRITUAL Lizzy Colindres celebra su bautismo con su tía Bessy Colindres, quien la llevó por primera vez a la planta de la iglesia New Life de la Conferencia de Allegheny West.

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Este otoño, los líderes estudiantiles, juniors y seniors de las academias de la Unión de Columbia se reunieron con los líderes de la unión en Edgewater, Maryland, para el fin

¡CALENDARIOS PRÓXIMAMENTE!

Para el Calendario 2020 de la Unión de Columbia, el personal de la revista Visitor se asoció con la revista Vibrant Life de la Pacific Press para producir un calendario con sugerencias inspiradoras para una vida saludable.

El calendario se enviará por correo a los miembros de toda la unión en diciembre. A partir de enero, habrá copias adicionales disponibles por solo el costo del envío, hasta agotar existencias.

Para ordenar, llame a Pacific Press al (800) 447-7377.

fotos por nisha varghese

SUPERHÉROES CONQUISTAN 5 KM

La iglesia Atholton de la Conferencia de Chesapeake en Columbia, Maryland, se encontraba entre las muchas iglesias alrededor de la Unión de Columbia que organizaron reuniones de evangelismo de otoño centradas en la comunidad. Además de las presentaciones del pastor principal Franke Zollman, tituladas “En busca del significado: arqueología y la Biblia”, se invitó a los asistentes a ver su colección de artefactos de los tiempos bíblicos.

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RETRAITE SPIRITUELLE POUR LES ETUDIANTS LEADERS

Cet automne, les leaders étudiants des académies (junior et senior) de l’Union de Columbia se sont réunis à Edgewater, dans le Maryland, avec les dirigeants des académies, pour la fin de semaine annuelle de Formation sur le Leadership Spirituel Académique (SALT). « Nous voulons que nos leaders étudiants aient une meilleure idée de leurs responsabilités en matière de leadership et de la manière de les assumer », a déclaré Jacqueline Messenger, coordonnatrice des événements et directrice adjointe de l’enseignement secondaire à l’Union de Columbia. « Nous souhaitons également soutenir leur leadership spirituel sur le campus ».

—VMB et Monica Zill

FOUILLEZ DANS LA VÉRITÉ BIBLIQUE

L’église Atholton de la Fédération de Chesapeake à Columbia, dans le Maryland, était l’une des nombreuses églises de l’Union de Columbia qui a organisé des réunions d’évangélisation de l’automne à l’intention de la communauté.

Outre les exposés du pasteur principal Franke Zollman, intitulés « À la recherche de signification : Archéologie et Bible », les participants ont été invités à découvrir sa collection d’objets de la Bible.

LES MINISTÈRES MULTILINGUES FIXENT LES OBJECTIFS DE 2020

Rubén Ramos, vice-président des ministères multilingues, a rappelé lors de la réunion du Comité Exécutif de septembre dernier de l’Union de Columbia les objectifs du département pour 2016-2021 et a encouragé chaque membre à s’impliquer dans le partage de l’Évangile.

Les dirigeants hispaniques aimeraient que leurs membres versent 20 millions de dollars en dîmes par an, contre 15,5 millions de dollars en 2015, et implantent 100 églises.

Ramos a ajouté qu’en 2020, ils aimeraient voir 5 000 membres s’engager à amener un ami à Christ, à créer 2 000 petits groupes et à célébrer 3 500 baptêmes.

Au début de l’année, l’union et les fédérations parraineront une

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Keni Vindel (photo avec le pasteur Horacio Quiroga) est l’un des tout derniers membres de l’église New Life de la Fédération Allegheny West à Cincinnati.

caravane qui traversera tous les districts pour inciter les membres à s’impliquer dans l’évangélisation personnelle.

Le nombre d’églises implantées sur le territoire l’Union de Columbia en 2019

photo par madhu tummalapalli

CALENDRIERS À VENIR BIENTÔT!

Pour le calendrier Columbia Union 2020, le personnel de Visitor s’est associé au magazine Vibrant Life de Pacific Press pour produire un calendrier contenant des suggestions de vie saines et inspirantes.

Le calendrier sera envoyé à tous les membres de l’Union en décembre prochain. A compter de janvier 2020, des exemplaires supplémentaires seront disponibles. Des frais d’expédition seront applicables jusqu’à épuisement des stocks.

Pour placer vos commandes, appelez Pacific Press au (800) 447-7377.

5KM: LA CONQUÊTE DES SUPER-HEROS

Les bénévoles Marty Chappell, membre de l’église New Hope de la Fédération de de Chesapeake à Fulton, dans le Maryland, et les membres Jennifer Northrop et Priya Samuel de l’église de Beltsville (Md.) de la Fédération de Potomac, ont participé à la course 5km de Christalis Superhero, marche pour soutenir la maison d’accueil de l’organisation pour les enfants en Ouganda. Plus de 200 supporters se sont inscrits pour l’événement qui s’est tenu à la Washington Adventist University de Takoma Park, dans le Maryland.

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By Carina O. Prestes

ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER CLUES ABOUT WOMEN IN EARLY CHRISTIANITY An Andrews University archaeologist is assessing artifacts that may shed light on the roles and contributions of women in the Early Christian church.

I

n 2014 an archaeological team from Andrews University (Mich.) began excavating a fourth-century funerary basilica and its surrounding settlement known as San Miceli. The goal was to investigate the emergence of Christianity in late antiquity. The site, located in Salemi, on the west side of Sicily (Southern Italy), preserves the remains of one of the earliest known Christian churches (above, left) and was first discovered by archaeologist Antonino Salinas in 1893.

During the last five years, the university team (above, right) has uncovered three different periods of occupation of the church building (fourth to sixth centuries); a baptistry; a surrounding cemetery (necropolis); and an adjacent rustic villa. While reviewing previous excavation reports, they noticed something especially interesting about Tomb 54.

Tomb 54 is located in front of the altar, beside a priest’s tomb, inside the San Miceli Basilica. This was unusual as burials in front of the altar are typically reserved for religious leaders. Inside this tomb archaeologists found a woman’s burial place. The mosaic covering the tomb was destroyed, obliterating her identity, but her jewelry with religious symbolism and bones were found intact. The defacing of her identity was not motivated by theft, otherwise there would be no jewelry and the bones would have been

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disturbed. The location of her burial and the religious artifacts likely mean that she was a wealthy patron or leader of the church.

Since working at the dig site, Andrews University archaeologists have uncovered the graves of numerous other women around the basilica. This is understandable because Christianity grew faster among women in the Greco-Roman era so there were more women than men in the Early Church. In addition, wealthy women were expected to help the less privileged. Such female patronage was honored at the time of the patrons’ burial. The patronage system continued when they converted to Christianity. The Early Church generally met in houses, and since the home was typically maintained by the wives, it meant these gatherings were within the female social domain. They financially supported the church, opened their homes to be used as gathering places by the Christian community, and upon their death, donated their property for its continued use. In the fourth century when Constantine sanctioned Christianity, many of these homes were rebuilt and enlarged for use as basilicas.

There is evidence this may have been the case at San Miceli. In addition, there are an unusual number of female saints in Sicily, indicating how important women were to the Sicilian Christian church.

The findings at San Miceli compelled Andrews University archaeologists to research women’s participation in the surrounding regions to help interpret the data being uncovered in the excavations. To date we have compiled a number of archaeological artifacts as well as literary references that shed light on this subject.

KALE PRESBYTER

In the Roman town of Centuripae, located on the east side of the island of Sicily, archaeologists found a tombstone of a woman named Kale who lived in the fourth to fifth century. The tombstone, translated from its Greek inscription, says, “Here lies the presbyter Kale who lived 50 years without reproach (amemptos). Her life ended on 14 September.” At present, this tombstone (right) is part of an exhibition at the Antonino Salinas Archaeological Museum in Palermo, Sicily. Her title, presbyter, means elder or minister, indicating she was a church leader. The Greek word, amemptos, which means blameless or without reproach, was frequently used in connection with church officers in Sicilian literature.

bishop, displayed in the same catacomb, also features this symbol above his head. These are the only two times this symbol is used in this catacomb.

What makes the women’s frescoes especially noteworthy is that in each of them, open books appear above both sides of their heads. The names of the Gospels—Mark, John, Luke, Matthew—are written on the pages of the books.

Also important is the fact that surrounding the Gospel books are tongues of fire. The Apostolic Constitutions, a fourth-century manual for clergy, describes the procedure for ordaining bishops. It says that the open Gospels

LETA PRESBYTERA

In the Southern Italian region of Calabria, in the early Christian town of Brutium (modern Tropea), archaeologists found the tombstone honoring the memory of a woman named Leta who also lived in the fourth to fifth century. The Latin inscription on her tombstone reads: “Sacred in happy memory: The presbytera Leta, who lived forty years, eight months, and nine days, whose husband erected this tombstone. She went forth in peace on the day before the Ides of May (15 May).” New Testament scholar and author Ute E. Eisen notes that references to church organization in Tropea are “especially sparse,” and only three individuals who were church office holders are thus far attested, Leta being one.

BITALIA AND CERULA

In the northern part of Naples, Italy, the Catacomb of San Gennaro started as a pagan burial place in the second century, and Christians began to use it around the third century. Over a 300-year period, as the church grew, they placed the remains of many local bishops and believers there. Like other early Christian catacombs, San Gennaro was decorated with frescoes and mosaics, some of which still remain visible on its walls and ceilings. In 2009 researchers found frescos portraying Bitalia and Cerula (right).

Each woman is shown with open arms and raised hands in a prayer-like position, a very common depiction in early Christian iconography. They are also presented with the “Chi-Rho” symbol (the first two Greek letters of the name “Christos” or Christ) above their heads.

Cerula’s fresco is in better shape, and also includes the Greek letters Alpha and Omega (the beginning and the end). Another fresco at San Gennaro, a martyred male columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 9

should be held by deacons over the head of the candidate. Other literary references of the same time period also mention this process, indicating its common practice. In addition, Palladius, the first Christian bishop of Ireland, wrote in AD 430 that the tongues of fire were a symbol of the descent of the Holy Spirit on the candidate, like the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles at Pentecost.

Thus, the Gospels over the head of a person are a sign of the ordination of a bishop by the church, and the tongues of fire symbolize ordination by the Holy Spirit.

LADY BISHOP Q

North of Rome in the city of Umbria, researchers found and catalogued a fifth- to sixth-century marble tombstone of a woman. The marble is damaged, which makes the text of the first line uncertain. However, the Latin inscription on the second line reads, “Here rests the venerable woman bishop Q … interred in peace … .”

Although this could be interpreted as the wife of a bishop, there is no reference to a husband, and the Latin interpretation used, “fem episcopa,” is “woman bishop.”

WOMEN RELIGIOUS TEACHERS

In the fifth century, the priest Peter Illyria built the Santa Sabina Basilica in Rome over a former house church. Above the door of the main entrance there is a mosaic portraying two women (above): one is identified as representing the church of the circumcised and the other as representing the church of the Gentiles. Both are portrayed with the familiar hand gestures displayed 10 | VISITOR November/December 2019

by religious teachers of that era and hold a large open book (likely the Bible). Such iconography was typically used to identify bishops. In addition, the woman representing the church of the Gentiles holds a cloth over her left arm, which only priests used when serving the eucharist.

THEODORA

In the ninth century, one of Rome’s churches was St. Prassede, a basilica built over a former house church site. Pope Paschal I restored the church and added the chapel of St. Zeno, which he decorated with beautiful mosaics. These mosaics portray a number of people, some of whom are identified. The name of Pope Paschal I’s mother, Theodora, was written in the mosaics in this chapel by her portrait, followed by the title, episcopa (pictured right). While an exact meaning cannot be determined, this title typically referred to the office of bishop.

LITERARY MENTIONS

In addition to the above archaeological artifacts mentioned, a few literary confirmations of women participating in leadership roles in early Christianity come from male references: In AD 494, a letter from Pope Gelasius I states: “To all episcopates [bishops] established in Lucania [modern Basilicata], Bruttium [modern Calabria], and Sicilia [modern Sicily]: ‘Nevertheless we have heard to our annoyance that divine affairs have come to such a low state that women are encouraged to officiate at the

sacred altars and to take part in all matters imputed to the offices of the male sex, to which they [women] do not belong.’”

In the 10th century, Bishop Atto (AD 885–961) of Vercelli (North Italy), reflecting on ancient church history, mentions that women, of necessity, exercised various ecclesial leadership roles in previous centuries: “In the primitive Church … many are the crops and few the laborers, for the helping of men, even religious women were ordained caretakers in the holy Church. … Not only men but also women presided over the churches because of their great usefulness … female presbyters assumed the office of preaching, leading, and teaching, so female deacons had taken up the office of ministry and of baptizing, a custom that no longer is expedient.”

At the San Miceli Excavations in Salemi, Sicily, Italy, archaeologist Carina Prestes points to a mosaic of a bird discovered by an Andrews University (Mich.) archaeological team in the remains of a basilica floor built in the sixth century.

FACTS AND ARTIFACTS

determine what should occur today, this information can contribute to a more informed discussion and growing body of knowledge. How women disappeared from leadership roles in the later centuries is also an interesting question worthy of future study.

Carina O. Prestes is a doctoral candidate in Biblical Archaeology at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich., and associate director of San Miceli Excavations in Sicily, Italy. She’s currently researching archaeology of the New Testament and early Christianity.

photos by melvin donadelle jr., carina o. prestes and courtesy of san miceli excavations

Information on this topic has been found in various countries around the Mediterranean basin including Italy, Turkey, Israel, France, Croatia, Greece, Egypt, Algeria and others. Beyond what is shared here, there are many other archaeological and textual references about the leadership roles of women in the early spread of Christianity that could be discussed, and more will be discovered.

People may debate exactly what these women did—and whether it was appropriate—but the historical facts and artifacts do indeed testify that women assumed leadership roles at virtually all levels of the church during the early centuries of Christianity. And while what happened in the past should not necessarily

columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 11

50 Years After Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse Started the New England Youth Ensemble

THE LEGACY LIVES ON

By Alita Byrd

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n the autumn of 1969, Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse— already an accomplished and internationally-known violin and piano soloist and composer—invited four little kids to play music in her living room. Little did they know, this was the beginning of the New England Youth Ensemble (NEYE), a group of young musicians that gave its first performance at the local Kiwanis club in Worcester, Mass., that Christmas. They would go on to play in some of the world’s most prestigious venues on five continents, and are still making music and inspiring young players today.

“We had no idea—none at all—that this is what it would turn into,” says Glee Charlestream, one of the original “four little kids” who now teaches violin, piano and chorus in Lyme, N.H. “I am really just trying to give back some of what Dr. Rittenhouse gave to me,” he says. “All of my teaching techniques basically come from being involved with Dr. Rittenhouse growing up.”

Charlestream played with the ensemble until 1979; he stopped touring when he had a family of his own.

But his retirement from the orchestra was shortlived. In 1986 his children began playing with the NEYE. They were only five- and seven-years old, so Charlestream went back to touring so that his kids could go. One of them now routinely plays at Carnegie Hall.

An early photograph of the New England Youth Ensemble in 1970.

And that is the story of the NEYE: to give hundreds of young musicians the opportunity to travel around the world to bring great music to audiences of thousands upon thousands for five decades and counting.

In a 2004 interview, Rittenhouse said: “People did ask me for a while whether I was going to retire, but the new story is that I can’t because they want their children to have this experience too. I would like to quiet down a bit, but I haven’t figured out how to do that yet, so I’ll keep going while I have the strength. This has been my life.

I can’t imagine life without the orchestra, really.”

And she continued directing, touring and planning right up until her death in August of 2011.

Eight years later, the legacy and mission of Rittenhouse lives on in the NEYE, housed at Washington Adventist University (WAU) in Takoma Park, Md., and now directed by Preston Hawes, who joined as a musician in 1997.

TRAINING GENERATIONS

Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse is pictured in the 1980s. n The New England Youth Ensemble plays for President Gerald Ford in July 1975 during his tour to Poland.

12 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Though already an accomplished solo musician and composer, after Rittenhouse formed the NEYE and led its first international tour to Europe in 1973, she dedicated her substantial energy and resources to its success instead of her own, training generations of young people to share the power of great music.

“She gave up her career to give us all one,” said Naomi Burns Delafield, concertmaster of the ensemble from 1994 to 2001.

Ensemble alumni form an impressive roster, ranging from music directors in Adventist schools and churches far and wide to holding key positions in professional, world-renowned orchestras. Igor Yuzefovich, who started playing with the ensemble in the 1990s at the age of 12, is now concertmaster of the BBC Symphony

Orchestra in London. Lyndon Johnston Taylor, who to medical school for sure ... until playing in the NEYE played and toured with the NEYE in the 1970s, is princi- made me realize how much I loved music, couldn’t live pal second violin for the Los Angeles Philharmonic. They without it, and—like medicine—how much of a positive are just two of the many former members now playing contribution it could be to the world,” DiPinto says. professionally around the world.

The ensemble has also had a major impact on CONTINUING THE TRADITION music and music education in the Seventh-day Adventist Upon Rittenhouse’s passing, WAU leadership Church. The orchestra directors of Southern Adventist established the New England Symphonic Ensemble as University (Tenn.) and Pacific Union College (PUC) in a nonprofit to help support the NEYE and to support California, have played in the NEYE. Music teachers in young scholars in their music education. “When you Seventh-day Adventist elementary schools and acade- donate to the symphonic ensemble, you are supporting mies across the U.S. and Canada are the New England Youth Ensemble,” also ensemble alumni. explains Hawes.

Rachelle Berthelsen Davis played This year at WAU, Hawes is conwith the orchestra for more than a tinuig NEYE’s tradition of mentordecade—including time as concertship and ambassadorship in exciting master—beginning in 1990. Davis is new ways. The ensemble is partnerPlaying in the now chair of the Music Department ing with Hill-Freedman Academy in at PUC. Philadelphia, a school of 656 underNEYE made me Davis says that her experience playprivileged young people, in which the realize how much I ing under Rittenhouse has certainly students will interact with the musiimpacted the way she directs the PUC cians, listen to a backstage lecture and loved music, couldn’t orchestra today. “From her I learned hear a concert—all at Carnegie Hall. live without it, and ... how to read and engage an audience, Hawes is also focusing on the and how to set up their experience of Carnegie Scholars Program of the how much of a the concerts through comments about NESE. “Carnegie Scholars was Dr. positive contribution the pieces,” she says.

Rittenhouse’s cornerstone—her heart Pianist Mark DiPinto is an associate and soul,” Hawes says. “She lived to it could be to the professor in WAU’s Music Department, play in Carnegie Hall.” This program home of the NEYE, and is married to gives young musicians the chance world.—Mark DiPinto Ekaterina—another ensemble alumnus. to play on the stage of Carnegie Hall He began playing with the ensemble in next to professional players. The 1995, soon after it moved from Atlantic ensemble has played more than 200 Union College (AUC) in Massachusetts concerts there. Hawes notes that where it was based for 26 years, and the goal is to fully fund this program soloed with the group across Europe, the Middle East, through endowments.

Australia and South Africa.

After 9/11, international touring has become much “Playing in the NEYE completely altered the course more complicated, Hawes says. Two years ago, the of school and career for me. I was pre-med and headed ensemble toured Australia. Other international tours are

“ ”

The New England Youth Ensemble and mass choir, under the direction of Conductor John Rutter, perform in 1998 at Carnegie Hall in New York City. columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 13

photos courtesy of washington adventist university and pieter damsteegt

in the long-term plans for the orchestra, but “we really have to focus on sustainability and growing our roots here until we have the support necessary to spread our branches a little bit wider,” he notes. “What we are really trying to do this year for our 50th anniversary is to establish the sustainability of the orchestra.”

Hawes continues, “I understand that the person who takes over from someone who started something so iconic and unique—the very next person is going to have a difficult job. I do my very best to just be me.”

Hawes (right) started out as Rittenhouse’s assistant when he was 22 years old, and served in that role for 10 years, until her death. “I have spent more time still as her assistant than as director,” he notes.

There is no question that Rittenhouse’s strong personality helped to make the orchestra what it is today, and her force of will was legendary.

James Bingham directed the choir and was chair of the Music Department from 1985 to 1993 at AUC, where he worked closely with Rittenhouse. He then moved to Columbia Union College [now WAU] to direct the choir and head the Music Department following Rittenhouse.

“Dr. Rittenhouse was very demanding as a colleague as she knew what she wanted and had a powView NEYE’s erful way of expressing herself,” Bingham says. “She had a mission livestreamed and her drive made it very difficult Christmas concert, for her to admit a defeat or to see another possible point of view.

December 6, at However, this was also her strong sligo.org. point, and because of her drive, she managed to achieve an enormous amount of good in her lifetime ... [and surmounted] problems that would have forced the average person to just quit.”

A story told by early orchestra member Alfred Aalstrup illustrates this: On one of the early tours, the orchestra was riding in a bus in Europe when it came upon a bridge with a load limit. “The driver was very hesitant about taking the bus across,” said Aalstrup. “But Virginia said, ‘Just drive fast.’ So he did.”

RIPPLES OF LEGACY

As the NEYE celebrates its 50th anniversary, the ripples of Rittenhouse’s legacy continue. Thirteenyear-old violinist Gabriella Apola (right), a freshman at Chesapeake Conference’s Atholton Adventist Academy in Columbia, Md., has been playing and soloing with the ensemble for almost a year now. She never met Rittenhouse. But she says the NEYE has helped to boost her confidence and inspired her to practice more because of the dedication she has seen in other players.

“I can’t imagine how it was back then when it started,” Apola says. “But my prayer is to be part of the legacy and help bring a positive change by being a blessing and being blessed as God continues to guide.”

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Members of the trumpet section perform during WAU’s 2019 Alumni Weekend.

Church Conducts Prayer Drive-Thru

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he Movement Germantown (Md.) church recently hosted their second annual Prayer Drive-Thru.

Church members offered one-minute prayers with drivers and distributed copies of Steps to Christ.

Members, equipped with signs and enthusiasm, led drivers to the Spark M. Matsunaga Elementary School’s parking lot. Prayer warriors waited to pray for everyone who came through.

Participant Doris Thomas shares, “Many asked for prayer for their health and their families; and in praying for them, we were all blessed.”

This initiative is reflective of the church’s full-member engagement approach to evangelism. It is also motivated by the church’s motto: “A place of worship that brings healing.” The goal is to reach the community through prayer, Bible study, worship and service.

“We are touching our community with Christ’s method alone,” says Mario Torres, volunteer lay pastor.

Church member and praise leader Ellen Boakye-Dankwa invites drivers for a quick prayer.

Conference Hosts Volunteer Lay Pastor Retreat

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he conference’s Ministerial Department recently hosted its first Volunteer Lay Pastor’s Retreat (VLP) on the grounds of Pine Forge Academy (Pa.). Thirteen VLPs attended the training session.

According to Gene Donaldson, ministerial director, “the purpose of the retreat was to provide spiritual support, professional development and fellowship.”

Discussion topics included pastoral nurturing, evangelism and stewardship. Presenters included Reginald Anderson-Exum, pastor of the Edmundson

Heights church in Baltimore; David Klinedinst, director of church growth and evangelism for the Chesapeake Conference; and Marcellus Robinson, stewardship director for AEC. “I learned that evangelism and church growth cannot and will not happen if we aren’t intentional about building loving and nurturing relationships inside and outside the church,” shared Jimmie Gibson, a volunteer lay pastor at the Mount Zion Miracle Station church in Wilmington, Del. The mission and objectives of the VLP program is to mobilize and equip lay people to provide consistent and loving care, promote congregational vitality and provide the means for leaders to develop and enhance their skills for service in different ways. Some duties of the VLP include preaching, visitation, chairing church board and business meetings and promoting all conference initiatives. The VLP Continual Education Curriculum allows them to grow their ministry in the areas of spiritual vitality, biblical exposition, evangelism and leadership.

Volunteer lay pastors and their spouses stand with retreat presenter David Klinedinst (blue shirt) and retreat coordinator Gene Donaldson (left of Klinedinst).

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Virginia Churches Worship Together

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ecently three churches in the Virginia area joined to worship and fellowship together. Members of the Cedars of Lebanon church in Chesapeake, Va., and the Coastal Shores church in Virginia Beach, Va., joined the New Life church members in Hampton, Va., for the second annual Unity Day. Members from other churches in the Virginia area also attended.

The New Life mass choir provided inspirational music, and Keenan Tyler, pastor of the Cedars of Lebanon and Coastal Shores churches, delivered a message titled “Thinking on Purpose,” based on Isaiah 26:3.

Following the service, everyone was invited to a fellowship meal. One person remarked, “It felt like a family reunion!” Richard Martin, pastor of the New Life church, says, “We envision these shared experiences will strengthen relationships between the churches, which can lead to partnering together in social and service activities.”

Members from the Cedars of Lebanon, Coastal Shores and New Life churches worship and fellowship together during Unity Day.

Montclair’s Annual Health Fair Draws Hundreds

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he First Church of Montclair in New Jersey recently hosted its 12th annual Community Health Fair. The health and community service departments worked together to offer free health screenings, education and food to more than 300 attendees.

Vendors from the Barnabas Mountainside Hospital (N.J.), the local fire department and even local dentists offered complimentary screenings, nutritional lessons and safety education at the Glenfield Park. This year

the church introduced the “Brown Bag Medication Review,” which allowed residency students from Seton Hall University and the Hackensack University Medical Center a chance to sit down with the fair’s attendees and review their current medications and prescriptions.

Students explained how prescriptions work and proper instruction on intake.

The health fair created a caring environment for all ages, and supplied resources and solutions for common health, nursing or safety issues. Church members even prayed with community members and attendees to address spiritual health needs.

This event focused on ministering to the local church community with a special focus on holistic care. “The hope is that we are able to provide a basic need of health care,” said Health Ministries co-leader Sergine Abellard. “Many people are without health insurance or are not always able to make it to the doctor, so we bring the physician to them.”

Health Ministries co-leader Sergine Abellard, daughter Aubrey and member Suzie Eloy volunteer at the First Church of Montclair’s Community Health Fair.

Allegheny East Exposé is published in the Visitor by the Allegheny East Conference n P. O. Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548 Phone: (610) 326-4610 n visitaec.com n President, Henry J. Fordham III n Communication Director, LaTasha Hewitt

16 | VISITOR November/December 2019

God Blessed in 2019!

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od has done amazing things in the Allegheny West Conference in 2019. This year has looked a lot better than in years past. Between 2018–19, we were able to eliminate a total of $1.5 million of debt. We also ended last year with the highest tithe amount in our conference’s history. And as we near the end of 2019, we are projecting to exceed that mark.

Our churches have been baptizing many, with new members being added daily to the family, as the book of Acts declares would happen. We’ve been blessed to establish several church plants, which, as a result, has opened the doors to additional opportunities, enabling us to meet the needs in these communities.

This year we held camp meeting outside of our campgrounds. We welcomed guest speakers Pastors Debleaire Snell from Huntsville, Ala., and Lola Moore-Johnston from Woodbridge, Va., along with world-renowned musical artists, including Anthony Brown & group TherAPy. We now have the beginnings of a new radio station. The AWC Radio app is a wonderful extension of the ministry, providing music and inspirational messages 24 hours a day, and is available for download for smart devices.

Lastly, we wish to extend condolences to those who have experienced loss in 2019, being mindful that although we sorrow, we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. We believe that Jesus’ coming is imminent, and we look forward to that blessed hope.

William T. Cox Sr. Well wishes to everyone as we go into 2020, believing that our best days are yet to come!

President

Fruit of the Spirit Church Hosts Annual Health Expo

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he Fruit of the Spirit church in Columbus recently held its annual Health Expo. Led by Patricia Benton, the Health Ministries director, and under the theme “The Path to Good Health,” church members invited people from both the local community and wider Columbus area to a day filled with fun and fellowship.

“I thank God for using us as His hands and feet in the community. Sharing and caring is what it’s all about!” says Benton.

Various free screening and informational stations, including blood pressure, blood sugar, emergency hands-only resuscitation, mental health, drug awareness and prayer, provided the community a wealth of healthy opportunities. Also available were vegetarian food, spa water and smoothie samples. Face painting and balloon animals provided entertainment for the children.

Member Gloria Golden wins a raffle at the annual Health Expo.

Fruit of the Spirit member Carolyn Luke offers to make a smoothie for Ephesus member Jai Williams.

A presenter highlighted the benefits of sleep, and an instructor led an energetic exercise workout for all ages.

“We believe all those in attendance appreciated this event,” says Harold Palmer, pastor. “Our objective was to make the community aware that we were not just an ordinary church, but a church who cares about the health and well-being of their community.”

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Shiloh Cincinnati Expands on enditnow Campaign

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en years ago, the General Conference launched their enditnow campaign, which emphasizes ending the cycle of abuse on women and children. Intimate partner violence has been a long-standing issue for more than 100 years within the Shiloh Cincinnati church’s surrounding Avondale community. As a result, church members took part in this initiative to stop violence that may affect congregation and community members alike.

Shiloh Community Services, church elders and 10 volunteers partnered with a local women’s domestic violence shelter to bring hope, love and a warm meal to survivors of domestic violence. They served 67 women and children hot breakfasts—a rarity on weekends. After breakfast, a fun-filled craft for the children provided smiles and laughter.

As part of the Avondale community, Shiloh members consider it their duty to love and serve all people, regardless of their circumstances. “God has called us to love, to serve, to bring hope and expand His kingdom. And we do that by stepping beyond the walls and into the streets,” says Bryant Smith, pastor. “We have

Gale Walker, George Jones and Karen Jones have a wonderful experience serving breakfast to 67 women and children at a domestic violence shelter.

accepted the call and are charged and ready to end this cycle of abuse in our community.”

Glenville Present Truth Church Lends a Healthy Hand

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iming to reach their local community with the biblical health message, the Glenville Present Truth church in Cleveland—just blocks away from the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic—has made health and wellness the mission of their church.

“There have always been high rates of noncommunicable illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure in communities of color, but unfortunately many people don’t know that these diseases can be prevented and even reversed in some cases,” says Eugene Anthony, Glenville’s senior pastor. “Our job is to share that knowledge that God has given us to educate our community.

We want people to see God’s love and to know that He wants us to prosper and to be in good health.”

The church partnered with the Eden Lifestyle Group in hosting a monthlong Community Health Expo at the Better Living Health Center located on the church grounds. Community members participated in healthy cooking classes and natural remedy workshops. Health care professionals administered health screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar.

“It’s time to take heed to biblical counsels and

Wellness instructor Ezra St. Juste staffs the natural remedy literature display table at the Community Health Expo. examples regarding the care for our bodies,” says Anthony. “We want to see our members and guests improve their health and well-being so that we all can experience the richness of life God has promised us.”

Spirit is published in the Visitor by the Allegheny West Conference n 1080 Kingsmill Parkway, Columbus, OH 43229 Phone: (614) 252-5271 n awconf.org n President, William T. Cox Sr. n Multimedia Coordinator, Benia Jennings

18 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Too Busy for God?

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here are many today who are too busy for spiritual things. Not just those who reject the gospel, but even Biblebelieving, church-going people. Like those in the parable Jesus told of the wedding banquet (Matt. 22:1–14), today some have “fields,” business matters or excuses that keep them from faith in the One who brings salvation.

In his book, Making Light of Christ, Charles Spurgeon told a story of a rich shipowner who was visited by a man of God. The Christian asked, “Well, sir, what is the state of your soul?” To which the merchant replied, “Soul? I have no time to take care of my soul. I have enough to do just taking care of my ships.”

However, he was not too busy to die, which he did about a week later.

Any one of us, even we who consider ourselves “spiritual,” can lose God to distraction. Do you think that’s not possible? Are you more interested in your credit report than in Christ?

Do you follow the stock market or sports stats more closely than the Savior? Even “good things” in our lives can become a distraction from what really matters.

Just imagine missing out on what He is preparing for us because of some flimsy excuse or for something that will eventually pass away. Perish the thought! The invitations are sent.

Jerry Lutz The table is set. Come to the banquet!

Executive Secretary

Teachers Spiritually Renewed at Discipleship Retreat

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hesapeake school teachers and staff, as well as pastors of church schools, recently met at the Mt. Aetna Retreat Center in Hagerstown, Md., for a twoday spiritual retreat. The gathering enabled education-related personnel from across the conference to pause and prioritize dedicated time for spiritual renewal during the busyness of the school year.

Don MacLafferty, president of In Discipleship and featured speaker for the retreat, led attendees through self-reflective questions, interactive group discussions and hands-on activities to facilitate deeper faith development. This special spiritual emphasis provided encouragement for each person to return to their respective educational community recharged to further disciple students in Jesus.

“Sometimes our kids can tell us about the correctness of the Sabbath, but may not know the Lord of the Sabbath,” said MacLafferty. “We may be able to say prophecies inside and out, but do we know the author of those prophecies? ... It’s all about Him.” This retreat is part of a greater Chesapeake Education Department initiative to utilize the In Discipleship program in empowering teachers

and students to live out the gospel each day.

“Taking the time to fill our cups with the Holy Spirit daily will lead our schools into far deeper reaches than any of us could imagine,” says Angie Singh, head teacher of the Dover First Christian School (Del.) “It’s so important that we remember to rely not on our strengths but on God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

Spiritual retreat attendees engage in a group discussion.

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Conference Readies to Plant 35 Churches by 2025

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SEEDS—to equip groups to plant in unreached/ underreached areas.

“It has been humbling to see God raising new leaders at the mother church and seeing Him strengthening and sending us new leaders at the church plant,” says Elvis Mogoii, senior pastor of the West Wilmington (Del.) church and the Life in Christ church plant in Bear, Del. Local church members can make an impact by researching the unentered areas closest to them and generating discussion within their congregation.

Members can also opt to start small groups in the areas they want to reach.

“God has willing people and resources for new churches,” says Mogoii.

map created by gregory plumb

here are 50 areas within the Chesapeake Conference that need a Seventh-day Adventist Church presence, says David Klinedinst, Evangelism and Church Growth director for the conference. To address this gap in church-to-population ratio, the conference has officially adopted a plan to plant 35 new churches by the year 2025.

“It’s part of the gospel commission,” says Klinedinst.

“The early Adventist church was always a churchplanting movement, so it’s time to rediscover our roots.

And this will help us depend more on Christ because this is something we cannot do alone.”

To facilitate this church planting initiative, Chesapeake will provide pastors and lay people with training materials and conferences—such as

The Challenge is published in the Visitor by the Chesapeake Conference n 6600 Martin Road, Columbia, MD 21044 Phone: (410) 995-1910 n ccosda.org n President, Rick Remmers n Communication Director, Andre Hastick

20 | VISITOR November/December 2019

How I Give Thanks

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ountain View Conference staff asked three members to share what Thanksgiving Day means to them. Enjoy a peek into their recollections and memories that point to the Giver of all gifts—Jesus Christ: Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. My parents taught their children to love each other and care for others.

If my parents knew of a person without a family, they joined us for a huge dinner.

No one was to be by themselves on Thanksgiving Day. Shortly after I became a member of the Summersville (W.Va.) church in 1985, my extended family had dwindled down to just a few because of death and others moving on with their lives, and Thanksgiving wasn’t going to be the same. Then Drs. Mark and Susie Wantz came to work at Fairview Health. They invited all who didn’t have extended family in the area to eat with them on Thanksgiving Day. My church family filled my void.

This past Thanksgiving will always serve as one of the best demonstrations of my “family” getting together.

Summersville church member Krista Olson Dale had gone to her rest on November 6. Our family didn’t want the Olson and Dale families to be overwhelmed by Krista’s loss. So, Susie moved the Thanksgiving dinner to the Olson’s home. We were thankful for each other, and we also celebrated Krista’s life.—Marcia Brown, Summersville (W.Va.) church member Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. I suppose it’s because there is not a whole lot going on other than spending time together. The morning is spent preparing food and taking an abundance of photographs. My parents’ house is noisy with sounds of chatter, laughter and kids playing. We always have two tables lined up, plus seats at the counter and often a little kid’s table, because our family is so large.

We often invite friends from the area or from church.

It is a joy to have others over—no matter how large our family is, there’s always room for more! I apologize to our guests for how crazy loud our house is, but it is heartwarming to hear how much they love it. I love how my family members embrace and welcome others, allowing them to be part of our family too.

I pray that we will never lose sight of how our family can be a big, warm hug to those around us—that simply by being a happy family—not a perfect one— we are being the family of God.—Jessica Manantan, Grafton (W.Va.) church member What does Thanksgiving mean to me? What does one say in the space allotted here? Should I talk about blessed times with family and friends around a Thanksgiving table heaped with the bounties of the harvest? But what about those who have no family or friends with whom to share this special time of year?

Might they experience Thanksgiving too?

Try thinking back to all the joys, little and big, that God has sent your way over the past year: the ethereal call of a warbler echoing deep in the forest; or a dark night with the crickets chirping by the back door; a gentle breeze that plays with the leaves rustling across the lawn; or a child sharing a smile that’s especially for you. I believe that all these pleasant moments are messages from God for you and me. He is telling us that He is still on His throne, that He is fully aware of our circumstances and that He loves us still. We can be thankful to Him for these gentle reminders, and we can bless His name for all of it.

Practice being thankful in advance. Thank God for what He is going to do for you. Don’t forget that one day you can be present at the Thanksgiving of all Thanksgivings, when Jesus and the redeemed will meet around a table such as has never been spread before.

So, if your Thanksgiving experiences of the past have not been all you would have wished them to be, commit today to following the Lamb, and He will make it up to you.—Jane Lawaty, Spencer (W.Va.) church member columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 21

Marlinton Experiences Unique Story, Special Sabbath

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n October 2006, Robert “Doc” Michael, pastor of the Summersville (W.Va.) church, conducted a Revelation Seminar in Marlinton, W.Va., the town where he was born and raised. Soon conference leaders decided to establish a Branch Sabbath School, and the group held their first Sabbath services December 2006 at the St. John’s Episcopal Church with 12 in attendance. By July 2007, the Marlinton Fellowship was officially recognized as the Marlinton Seventh-day Adventist Company.

In the fall of 2016, the group, led by then-retired Michael, began searching for a building to become their new church home. After looking at several properties in and near Marlinton, they found property on Beard Heights, well above the city and out of the floodplain, and also located on U.S. 219—the main route that goes through the small town. In December they placed a bid on the building, agreed upon a price, signed the contract and the Marlinton group moved into their new home in February.

A two-and-a-half-year renovation began early in 2017, transforming what was once a bar, then a restaurant (twice), later a doctor’s office and eventually the Marlinton Company. It took time to remove walls, refinish ceilings, change doorways, carpet floors, install cabinets, repair bathrooms, install vinyl siding and paint.

This building, which was once a bar, has been replaced by a congregation that drinks from the Fountain of Life as members fellowship together each Sabbath.

After many years of gathering at a rental church, the Marlinton Company now rejoices in their own church building.

A beautiful program took place on a recent Sabbath morning, complete with a visual presentation by Michael on the history of the Marlinton Company.

Monica Zill, and her daughter, Alaina, from the Parkersburg (W.Va.) church, provided special music; Randy Murphy from the Grafton (W.Va.) church told the children’s story; and Mike Hewitt, the conference president, delivered a message in which he challenged everyone to “remember that people are the church; [the church] is not just the building.”

Several community members attended the program, including Pastor Shaun Clark of the Mountain View Assembly of God congregation and Philip Anderson, principal of the Marlinton Elementary School. The Marlinton members have been reaching out to this small public school for three years by purchasing and donating school supplies to them. A 96-year-old former member, but now a member of another Adventist church, drove herself to the service, promising to return soon before winter weather sets in.

“This Sabbath was a high day for me, as I looked back and saw all that God has done in Marlinton,” says Michael, “and what He will continue to do.”—Roger Stull, Marlinton volunteer lay pastor

Mountain Viewpoint is published in the Visitor by the Mountain View Conference n 1400 Liberty Street, Parkersburg, WV 26101 Phone: (304) 422-4581 n mtviewconf.org n President, Mike Hewitt n Communication Director, Valerie Morikone

22 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Stewards of God’s Manifold Grace

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or many Christians, stewardship is primarily thought of in relation to material things, money or tithes and offerings. Some go as far as to think that if they return a faithful tithe and give freewill offerings to God through His church, they have fulfilled their Christian responsibility.

Two giants of the New Testament church, Peter and Paul, presented a much wider concept of Christian stewardship. First Peter 4:10 tells us that everyone received gifts, and that we should serve one another “as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (KJV). Manifold means many, various kinds or numerous. Gifts are mentioned in verse 11, but none are material. In 1 Corinthians 4:1, Paul speaks of us “as stewards of the mysteries of God” (KJV). Paul used the word “mystery” not as something unknown to us but as something revealed to us from God that others do not know. He is speaking of the wonderful revelation of God’s plan of salvation in Jesus Christ—our Creator and Redeemer.

Yes, returning God’s tithes and giving freewill offerings are important in carrying the gospel to others, but that is not enough, and Christians should recognize this. As faithful stewards, all that we have and who we are belong to God (Ps. 24:1). We are given the privilege to join Him with all we are and have to the greatest work in the world: “to seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10, KJV).

Jesus is devoted in preparing a place for us, where there will be no more sickness, pain, suffering or death (John 14:1–3; Rev. 21:1–5). What a joy it will be for those who Leonel Pottinger joined Him in this mission of salvation to one day soon hear the words, “Come, ye Ministerial and blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you” (Matt. 25:34, KJV).

Stewardship Director

Mayordomos de la gracia múltiple de Dios

photo by by claudio ungari

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ara muchos cristianos, mayordomía o la mayordomía es pensada en relación con cosas materiales, dinero o diezmos y ofrendas. Algunos van tan lejos como para pensar que, si devuelven fielmente el diezmo y dan ofrendas voluntarias a Dios a través de su iglesia, han cumplido con su responsabilidad cristiana.

Dos gigantes de la iglesia del Nuevo Testamento, Pedro y Pablo, presentaron un concepto mucho más amplio de mayordomía cristiana. Primero Pedro 4:10 nos dice que todos recibieron regalos, y que debemos servirnos unos a otros “como buenos administradores de la multiforme gracia de Dios” (KJV). Múltiple significa muchos, varios tipos o numerosos. Los dones se mencionan en el versículo 11, pero ninguno es material. En 1 Corintios 4:1, Pablo habla de nosotros “como mayordomos de los misterios de Dios” (KJV). Pablo usó la palabra “misterio” no como algo desconocido para nosotros, sino como algo revelado por Dios que otros no saben. Él está hablando de la maravillosa revelación del plan de salvación de Dios en Jesucristo: nuestro Creador y Redentor.

Sí, devolver los diezmos de Dios y dar ofrendas voluntarias es importante para llevar el evangelio a otros, pero eso no es suficiente, y los cristianos deberían reconocer esto. Como mayordomos fieles, todo lo que tenemos y quiénes somos pertenece a Dios (Sal. 24:1).

Se nos da el privilegio de unirnos a Él con todo lo que somos y tenemos para la mayor obra del mundo: “buscar y salvar a los perdidos” (Lucas 19:10, KJV).

Jesús se dedica a preparar un lugar para nosotros, donde no habrá más enfermedades, dolor, sufrimiento o muerte (Juan 14:1–3; Apoc. 21:1–5). ¡Qué alegría será para aquellos que se unieron a Él en esta misión de salvación el escuchar pronto las palabras: “Vengan, benditos de mi Padre, hereden el reino preparado para ustedes” (Mateo 25:34, KJV).—Leonel Pottinger

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I Found True Relief at the Red Building

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or more than 10 years, I drove by the “red building,” not knowing it was the New Brunswick (N.J.) church.

I knew it was a Christian church because on Saturdays I saw many happy people, well-dressed and with Bibles under their arms. Nevertheless, it wasn’t relevant to me.

After some time, I noticed that on Sunday mornings, another group of people, the majority of them from foreign countries, stood by the church for hours to receive food. Earlier this year, I decided to go on a Sunday, and I was blessed with the items they gladly shared.

I started going regularly and received not only food, but joy, kindness and tender attention from the volunteers at that Food Pantry. In spite of it being an English-speaking church, the language of love was strongly manifested.

One day the pastor of the church, Martin ForbesWilson, made an invitation to pray for our families in the sanctuary. There peace filled my soul, and as he spoke from the Bible, I felt like God was talking to me. From that day forward, this fellowship has become my priority, and I wait eagerly every Sunday morning to go and study the Word and pray together. Many times I don’t even go for food anymore.

Currently I am part of a small group called “House of Restoration.” We eat together, have spiritual retreats

Community member Agustina Francisco drove by the New Brunswick church for 10 years, not knowing that the red building would one day change her life.

and fellowship together. Every Wednesday we have Bible study and prayer meeting in Spanish.

My greatest desire is to soon become a Seventh-day Adventist and start attending church on Sabbaths among God’s people.—Agustina Francisco

Give of Yourself This Holiday Season

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he church calendar becomes very busy toward the end of the calendar year, with special music programs, pageants, feasts and more. Unfortunately, during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, we often become self-indulgent. One valuable way to

avoid holiday excesses is to address the needs of those around us: “If we would indulge less in feasting and merriment upon these occasions, and instead make them the means benefiting humanity, we should better meet the mind of God” (Ellen White, Review and Herald, December 11, 1879, par. 6).

Serving through Adventist Community Services (ACS) often provides the best way to represent Christ.

Most churches already have an active Community Service Department, whose leaders are often overburdened leading up to the holidays.

Along with ACS, the New Jersey Conference also has the Second Acts Community Service Center. Many church members, schools and even local community members volunteer their time making holiday gift baskets and home-baked cookies.

If your church or conference does not have an organized ministry of compassion, get one started so that you can begin to serve others as the hands and heart of God.—Mike Gill, New Jersey Conference ACS Director

New Jersey News is published in the Visitor by the New Jersey Conference n 2303 Brunswick Ave., Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 392-7131 n njcsda.org n President, Jorge Aguero n Communication Director, Mario Thorp

24 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Akron Church Increases Refugee Awareness

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photos by susan kirschbaum

or several years, the Akron First church has actively served refugees from Burma, Thailand, Rwanda, the Congo, Uganda and Kenya who have settled in the community.

Members help these families obtain household furnishings, assist them in filling out forms and provide driving lessons. Many refugees have become a part of church life, enrolling their children in the Mayfair Christian School in Uniontown and participating in Adventurer and Pathfinder programs. The congregation hosts social gatherings, baby and wedding showers and conducts hospital visits and baptisms. This year they financially supported two refugee students attending Great Lakes Adventist Academy (Mich.).

Bill Levin, pastor of Akron First, shared details about this growing ministry with Terri Saelee, North American Division coordinator for Adventist Refugee and Immigrant Ministries. “She suggested a ‘Refugee Awareness Sabbath’ to help more of our church family become aware of the unique challenges and needs refugees have as they transition into a new land and culture. Utilizing her idea, we extended an invitation for our refugee brothers and sisters to help us get to know them and their plight a little better,” Levin says.

During Sabbath School, refugee children told young people what life was like in a refugee camp and the changes that took place upon arriving to the U.S. Saelee went to the Junior/Earliteen class and shared

Bill Levin (left), pastor of the Akron First church, talks with refugees about life in the U.S. versus life at home.

a “Loss Simulation” exercise (pictured) to help young people wrestle with the idea of the very real loss most refugees face—the loss of family members, possessions and homes. “[Saelee] had my students pretend that war broke out and bombs were falling. She gave them three minutes to write down four people they would take with them, four documents they would take, four favorite things and four favorite places [each on a separate piece of paper],” shares Sabbath School teacher Susan Kirschbaum. “After the three minutes, she asked them to delete one item from each category, and while they were doing that, she quietly asked me to go around and randomly remove a few papers from each kid’s stacks.”

She continues, “They were really upset—‘You took my mom!’ or ‘You took my grandma!’” and added, “I was the ‘government,’ and though they had done their best at making decisions with what they had, they had now lost control. That’s what a refugee’s life is like. It was an eye opener for everyone.”

Worship was filled with refugee friends sharing music from their native homeland, while three adults gave personal testimonies about families being detained in refugee camps. As they shared stories, the congregation was visibly moved and heartbroken for them and their struggle.

After the service, church members completed commitment sheets addressing specific things each person could do to assist and bless refugees in the community.

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‘Pentaevangelism’ Culminates in 135 Baptisms

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Youth groups from across the state, such as the Westerville Pathfinders from the First Hispanic church of Columbus, participate in Pentaevangelism.

Sixty-four people, Hispanic and non-Hispanic, celebrate baptism during the Hispanic Camp Meeting.

More than 350 members, elders and lay leaders facilitated Pentaevangelism, which concluded during the recent Hispanic Camp Meeting, attended by 1,053 people. Hispanic pastors and elders, working alongside several non-Hispanic pastors, baptized 64 people during camp meeting. Then, throughout the 50 days of prayer, 71 baptisms took place conferencewide.

Three years ago, the English-speaking church in Ravenna closed. The Hispanic Church of Akron now meets in Ravenna and offers English translations to returning members from that area. One of those members chose to be baptized during camp meeting. “We have a group of seven or eight coming back to Ravenna … that church will be alive again,” says Simpson.

“We’re not just baptizing new people; we’re planting new American churches!”

Part of the mission of Hispanic Ministries is to reach across the cultural divide. Simpson stresses, “If you have a neighbor who [isn’t Hispanic], don’t think we cannot reach out to them. … Everybody around us is a person that needs to be saved.” One Hispanic lay leader from the Cleveland area has a strong transcultural ministry and brought four American people into the faith. They are presently studying the Bible with a Muslim.

Mission Ohio is published in the Visitor by the Ohio Conference n 1251 E. Dorothy Lane, Dayton, OH 45419 Phone: (740) 397-4665 n ohioadventist.org n President, Ron Halvorsen Jr. n Communication Director, Heidi Shoemaker

26 | VISITOR November/December 2019

photos by carolina estrada

entaevangelism, … what is that?” asks Peter Simpson, Hispanic Ministries coordinator for the Ohio Conference. “We’ve done many things, but nothing like this.”

‘Pentaevangelism’ (Pentaevangelismo) is the most recent evangelism program designed by Simpson and the Hispanic Ministries Department. Penta (five) refers to the five principal components of evangelism: prayer (oración); preaching (predicación); baptizing (conversión); producing or multiplying (multiplación); and planting (plantación).

Prayer was most important, according to Simpson.

“We had 50 people praying for 50 days, for 50 minutes every day, for five people every day. It was contagious.”

Pentaevangelism encourages complete member involvement. “It’s not just giving Bible studies,” shares Simpson. While finding ways to engage members could be challenging at times, the majority of members participated. From praying for the program or preaching in their churches to working with small groups, members became engaged.

“We as pastors cannot accomplish the mission without the members,” says Simpson. “In many churches, the pastor is the only one doing things and the members know that, some saying they pay you to do that. The church is dying because they are not doing anything for themselves and for others.”

Pennies Turn Into Endowment

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sceola McCarty was born in 1908. She lived with her aunt and grandmother in Mississippi. When her aunt returned from a hospitalization unable to walk, McCarty dropped out of school to care for her. She never went back. Instead, she became a washerwoman—getting up early in the morning to light a fire under her wash pot, wash the clothes on a scrub board, hang them on a 100-foot-long clothesline, and when they were dry, iron until 11 p.m. at night.

McCarty saved a portion of the funds she received for each load of wash, stashing it in her doll buggy until the buggy could hold no more. She opened a bank account and continued to save, until to her surprise, she had saved over $250,000.

She established an endowment fund for worthy students seeking the education she never had.

She said, “I am proud that I worked hard and that my money will help young people. I’m proud that I am leaving something positive in this world. My only regret is that I didn’t have more to give.”

Imagine what an impact endowment funds have on our young people! Whether it’s the local church school, Blue Mountain Academy or the worthy student fund, the revenue provides the Bonnie Navarro opportunity for our children to be educated in a Seventh-day Adventist system surrounded Planned Giving by our values. Then they are equipped to serve as missionaries throughout the world, and Director in Pennsylvania, no matter what their occupation.

Make the End of the Year Count

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t this time of the year, thoughts of gratitude arise in our minds. But what can you offer to your Creator and Sustainer? Here are some options to consider:

First: The Direct IRA Rollover. The IRS likes charities and people who support them. If you have an IRA, the IRS will allow you to directly transfer any amount you select (up to a maximum of $100,000 per year) to the Pennsylvania Conference. Because the IRS is favorable to charitable donations, they will not tax the amount you transfer. Imagine a gift for evangelism, elementary education, Blue Mountain Academy or Laurel Lake Camp, where approximately 40 percent of each dollar is contributed from the IRS and Pennsylvania! This is a real tax-wise gift strategy. You must be 70 ½ or older to qualify.

Second: The Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA). This instrument is good for people who need more income than banks offer on Certificates of Deposit or Money Markets. If you are in your late 60s to 90s, the payout range is 5.3 percent to a maximum of 9.5 percent. This is an irrevocable gift; therefore, the IRS gives you a charitable deduction for the year in which the CGA is funded. The IRS also treats a generous portion of your payment as income tax free.

Third: A Will. Contact Bonnie Navarro at (480) 766-9895 for details. She is a Pennsylvanialicensed attorney, and may be able to write your will at no cost.

Fourth: Outright gifts of cash, stock or real estate.

Let’s make this a great giving season to honor our Creator and Redeemer!

Al Navarro Planned Giving Director

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Busy Summer for Planned Giving

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l and Bonnie Navarro were busy this summer, speaking in nine churches during a 10-week period. The Navarros spoke each Sabbath morning then returned on Sunday morning to explore the many aspects of making a future planned gift to support the work of the Pennsylvania Conference with members.

People also had the opportunity to meet one-on-one for individual counsel and help.

Bonnie, a Pennsylvania-licensed attorney, is able to provide wills to members who wish to remember the Pennsylvania Conference in their estate planning. For a limited time, the conference is providing this service at no cost to members. Many are taking advantage of this important opportunity.

Whether you are interested in supporting the conference, your local church, your local church school, Blue Mountain Academy, evangelism, Youth Ministries, Health Ministries, Laurel Lake Camp or other areas within the conference, the Navarros are able to assist you in making your desires a reality.

They are already looking forward to church visitations in 2020. In the meantime, you can reach them at the

Al and Bonnie Navarro, Planned Giving directors for the Pennsylvania Conference, advise constituents to maximize their savings and generously give to further His kingdom. conference office, (610) 374-8331, their cell phones, (480) 252-0844 (Al) or (480) 766-9895 (Bonnie) or email, amnavarro@paconference.org or ywnavarro@ paconference.org.

Pennsylvania Pen is published in the Visitor by the Pennsylvania Conference n 720 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 Phone: (610) 374-8331, ext. 210 n paconference.org n President, Gary Gibbs n Communication Director, Tamyra Horst

28 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Outstanding Pastors and Teachers Recognized

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t the recent Potomac Conference pastor/teacher meeting, administrators recognized outstanding educators and pastors for the work they have done. This year they gave special appreciation to four professionals: Carole Smith, teacher of the Roanoke Adventist Preparatory School (Va.); Johnnie Blanton, teacher of the Powell Valley Christian School in Dryden, Va.; Paulasir Abraham, associate pastor of the Southern Asian church in Silver Spring, Md.; and Jonas Baca, pastor of the Metro NoVa Spanish district in Maryland and Virginia. To watch the appreciation videos, please visit pcsda.org/appreciation2019.

Conference Hires Two Church Planters

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n keeping with Potomac’s 2020 mission and vision of planting churches in population/people groups of 20,000 or more that currently do not have an Adventist presence, administration has brought on two full-time church planters.

Pastor Jian Lin, who recently earned his M.Div. from Andrews University (Mich.), will focus his efforts on starting a Chinese church plant in the Rockville, Md., area. “We are partnering with the General Conference

Global Mission initiative to have a Chinese church plant in North America,” shares Rick Jordan, Potomac’s vice president for Pastoral Ministries. “This plant will be along the I-270 corridor because of the large number of Chinese people living in that area.”

Potomac has also hired Pastor Boyan Levterov, former Church Planting coordinator for the Texas Conference.

He is known as one of the top church planters in North America. “He has successfully planted several thriving churches over the years, and we believe he will do the same in Potomac,” says Jordan. Currently Levterov and administration are scoping out several locations for him to plant churches, including the Maryland/D.C. area and along the I-270 corridor.

“The goal is for both coordinators to plant one church and then plant new churches from that,” explains Steve Leddy, associate for church planting and evangelism.

“Both planters are doing ‘cold starts,’ meaning they are starting plants that are not tied to any congregation. We are blessed to have both Jian and Boyan working with us! Church planting takes time and dedication. We are excited to see where the Holy Spirit leads,” he says.

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Small, Mighty Pathfinder Team Sponsors Kenya Group

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t this year’s International Pathfinder Camporee in Oshkosh, Wis., a small, but mighty Pathfinder group from Rockville, Md., known as the Rockville Disciples, worked tirelessly with their congregation to sponsor 136 Pathfinders from Kenya, called the New Life Flying Marines. The group, comprised of just 15 Pathfinders, three directors and six counselors, prayed and fundraised to give their international brothers and sisters a trip to remember.

The connection to Kenya began in 2016. Donna Neufville and Petronella Barrow, Rockville’s associate Pathfinder directors, visited Kenya for the wedding of a young woman who attended the Rockville (Md.) church while going to school in the U.S. “While we were there, we met Jane, the associate director for the local club, and began talking about Oshkosh. Jane indicated they had been before, but hadn’t had the best experience.”

The group had been sponsored by different teams, putting them—and their families—on different schedules. Neufville says she and Barrow wanted to see what they could do to make this group’s Oshkosh experience better the second time around.

“We decided to sponsor the group as a whole,” explains Neufville. “Sponsoring means providing camping equipment like tents and blankets and covering the cost and preparation of food—three or four meals a day. Initially we thought we would be sponsoring between 70 and 100 from Kenya, but the total ended up being 136. In addition, we sponsored five

Pathfinders Briana Bryant and Joshua Monroe from the Rockville club line up to lead their group in the parade at Oshkosh.

The Rockville Pathfinder group (right), comprised of just 15 Pathfinders, three directors and six counselors, stand with the 136 sponsored Pathfinders from Kenya.

from Jamaica and provided meals for 10 Pathfinders from Alabama.”

Many feel daunted by the idea of fundraising, but Neufville and Barrow say they do it all the time at the Rockville church. “We have several ongoing and cycling fundraisers each year, including fruit sales, a shoe fashion show and fundraising walks, as well as 100 percent donation matching through several companies members in our church own or work for,” says Neufville. “We use this money in areas we feel may need it the most, and Pathfinders and Young Adult Ministries is a big part of that.” This year the Banner Life Insurance Company matched the $10,000 the congregation and Pathfinder group raised.

“We are blessed to have had this opportunity,” Neufville continues. “It was a palpable way to understand God’s grace and understanding. It’s not about being small or large; it’s about going above and beyond—which is what God does daily for us. People said we were crazy—even to feed that many people— but I say, if you can feed 10, you can feed 100! We hope other clubs will be inspired to sponsor groups for Oshkosh 2024! We can’t wait!”

Correction: In the October issue, we mistakenly attributed a quote to Elaine LaBastide. We regret this error.

Potomac People is published in the Visitor by the Potomac Conference n 606 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401 Phone: (540) 886-0771 n pcsda.org n President, Bill Miller n Communication Specialist, Tiffany Doss

30 | VISITOR November/December 2019

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Students Witness Through Teambuilding, Sportsmanship

photos by austin gomez

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here is a new sport on Highland View Academy’s (HVA) campus that is not only building up student athletes’ physical bodies but teamwork skills too.

The HVA Aerials gymnastics team members build up team spirit and glorify God through their physical talents. The team meets weekly to practice skills and learn how to be healthy Christian representatives.

Whether it is telling a Bible story through team demos or by working in pairs or quads to talk about good health choices through movement, the Aerials work hard to communicate God’s love to others.

This team sport joins other sports on campus in providing ways to glorify God through athletic talents.

The Lady Tartans volleyball team recently showed their sportsmanship as they played against Mercersburg Academy (Pa.). Working hard to face these tough competitors, the Lady Tartans encouraged each other and the other team players to do their best.

Similarly, the other Tartans varsity sports teams work hard to show their skills in addition to good Christian sportsmanship. During last year’s athletics season at the Walla Walla University Friendship Tournament (Wash.), the Tartans boys’ varsity

The Lady Tartans volleyball team shows team spirit.

The HVA Aerials gymnastics team demonstrates their God-given athletic talents.

basketball team not only received the third place trophy, but also the top Christian Sportsmanship Award.

Terry Hess, current athletic director and board member, encourages this great athleticism along with Christian sportsmanship. Andrew S. Lay, Development director, also shares this belief: “HVA is becoming known for not only winning games but also showing a Christian spirit at each event. This spirit of cooperation and care for others has also shown up in the Tartans soccer teams,” he says. “Whether it is playing locally against other Christian or private schools, at the tournament at Union College in Nebraska or in a different state with other Adventist schools, our athletes are increasingly committed to demonstrating their abilities through sportsmanship and team excellence.”

For more pictures of the Aerials team, visit Instagram.com/hva_aerials/.

Highlander is published in the Visitor by the Highland View Academy n 10100 Academy Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740 Phone: (301) 739-8480 n Fax: (301) 733-4770 n highlandviewacademy.com n Principal, Harry Janetzko

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The Lake Nelson Adventist Academy Difference

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n the outside, Lake Nelson Adventist Academy (LNAA) doesn’t look like your typical academy. It’s small exterior is a major deception to the big things happening inside. Just by looking at the school, you wouldn’t be able to tell how much of an impact it makes on the students who attend.

I have attended LNAA since I was three; I’m now a senior. I’ve learned what true service is by being here.

I have seen how the teachers and staff go above and beyond for their students, whether it’s for educational or spiritual purposes. The principal and teachers show a love toward the students and community that has touched me and taught me how to emulate the character of Jesus. LNAA has a legacy of blessing students in big ways. This is the LNAA difference.

Jaya Gibbons, a senior and the Student Association president, first experienced the LNAA difference as a kindergartener, left for a time, and returned as a high school freshman. She returned because she craved “a place of equality toward all cultures; love and kindness among students and teachers; and a place where [she could] grow both spiritually and intellectually.” Gibbons explains that the teachers make God real in everything they do at school.

Vanessa Guerro dresses up as a coffee cup to demonstrate the harmful effects on the body.

Vanessa Guerro (’19) shares, “LNAA was a second home to me for 13 years of my life, and I believe the spiritual focus there is the greatest reason it stands out among other academies. God is the foundation of every class, trip, project and program. The teachers provide students with an exceptional and stimulating classroom environment and curriculum that truly challenges and engages a student’s mental abilities.”

Steven Henry (’19) came from a public school experience and had to adjust to the LNAA difference. He says, “I realized how much Lake Nelson prepared me with the proper mindset to face all that comes my way in the real world. While I was there, I saw how much the teachers genuinely care about, not only my physical and mental well-being, but my spiritual state as well. The school really stresses the importance of a healthy relationship with God, our Creator.”

The LNAA difference is the genuine God-fearing, family-like, servant-centered ministry of all who teach and attend the school. As I prepare to graduate in 2020, I am forever grateful because it has instilled in me a character for eternity. LNAA’s difference is its legacy.

—Samantha Rivera

Jaya Gibbons prays with teacher Leah Ware.

Legacy is published in the Visitor by the Lake Nelson Academy n 555 South Randolphville Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854 Phone: (732) 981-0626 n Fax: (732) 981-0770 n lakenelsonacademy.org n Principal, Elisa Maragoto n Editor, Ashley Boggess

32 | VISITOR November/December 2019

At Alumni Weekend, Academy ‘Forges the Future’

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ags were packed, gas tanks full and the anticipation of seeing old classmates and sentiments of nostalgia grew, as more than 1,000 people recently traveled to Pine Forge Academy’s (PFA) 44th Annual Alumni Weekend, themed “Forging the Future.” Reaching back to the rich history that begins with an iron mill to the current goals of restoring the campus, PFA eagerly celebrated 74 classes of graduates. Special honor was given to the Class of 1969, as they celebrated their 50th anniversary.

Sokoni Scott (’94), president of the National Pine Forge Academy Alumni Association (NPFAAA), shares, “Reunions are all about reconnecting with old and dear friends. We encourage our alumni to remember to connect with current students, faculty and staff. Share your perspectives, insights and aspirations with them.

In the last 12 months, the alumni association has raised over $314,000. These funds have renovated North Hall, purchased a 47-passenger bus, laid new sidewalks and improved lighting in dark areas around our campus. We are also extremely proud to report we provided over $62,000 in student scholarships and assistance.”

Alumni Career Day launched the weekend activities, where students met and spoke to presenters who shared their wisdom and stories of matriculation through PFA into their current careers. Alumni working in fields of science, information technology, media, medicine, law, engineering, aviation, ministry,

NPFAAA President Sokoni Scott (’94) leads the Alumni Awards Ceremony.

Patrick Dyson (’09) speaks to PFA students interested in math and aviation.

government, barbering, entrepreneurship and more, volunteered their time to share information about their day-to-day work. In the afternoon, attendees gathered at the Alumni President’s Ceremony to celebrate the North Hall Conservatory renovations, made

by Maranatha.

On Friday night and Saturday morning, God’s messengers, Dennis Ross (’89) and Noah Washington (’99) spoke memorable words of instruction to “Sacrifice What’s Good for What’s Best” and encouragement from John 3:16, reminding the congregation of God’s amazing love that was experienced while attending PFA through today.

Later, during an awards ceremony, many honorees, including Vivian English Washington (’79), Alumna of the Year, and Joseph C. McKenzie (’89), Alumnus of the Year, received recognition for their accomplishments and dedication to their beloved school.

Saturday night’s traditional basketball game between former and current Falcons proved to the young that the alumni “still got it!” After all, it was their weekend.

On Sunday the alumni business meeting was held, and plans continued toward “Forging the Future” of PFA. With bags packed again, lifetime friends smiled, hugged and parted until next year or hopefully Jesus’ imminent return.—Tracey Jackson

Post is published in the Visitor by the Pine Forge Academy n P.O. Box 338, Pine Forge, PA 19548 Phone: (610) 326-5800 n Fax: (610) 326-5152 n pineforgeacademy.org n Principal, H. Clifford Reynolds, III

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Concert Winds Attend Disney Workshop pencerville Adventist Academy’s high school band, the Concert Winds, has been in a rebuilding process for the past two years. Last year the ensemble had only 13 members. Though small, they had such a successful year that their band director, Lisa Froelich, wanted to do something special for them. She submitted an audition tape from their Spring Concert to the Walt Disney World’s Performing Arts program to see if they would be invited to a workshop. This past May, they received word they were accepted!

In September, the now 23-member band traveled to Orlando, Fla., where they did something few young musicians get the opportunity to experience: under a professional Disney conductor, they learned how to improve their sight reading, balance, phrasing, dynamics and several other musical skills. At the end of the workshop, the conductor recorded them and demonstrated how their recording could be used as a soundtrack.

Jehlyssa Kennedy (’20), Ella Kim (’22), Sophia Rivera (‘21), Alyssa Caruthers (’22) and Caleb Chung (’23) improve their musical skills on their instruments.

Percussionists Lauren Fennell and JJ Pillai, both freshmen, look over their music during the Disney workshop.

“I loved how interactive and creative the conductor was,” says senior Jehlyssa Kennedy. “He did a great job of engaging us and keeping us focused on him the entire time.”

Freshman Cameron Da Cunha shares, “He would record us whenever we were sight reading, and then also at the end of the piece once we had spent time on it. Hearing the result of our work compared to where we had started was really cool!”

Senior Nina Palivela adds, “I started the workshop being a little hesitant, but as we continued, I felt myself becoming more confident in my playing abilities. I learned that you always have room to grow, and with that growth, you can do more things than you thought possible.”

SAA to Present Magnificat Christmas Concert The Spencerville Adventist Academy Chorale and Community Orchestra, along with the Spencerville church choir, will present Magnificat by John Rutter, December 7, 2019, at 4 p.m., at the Spencerville church in Silver Spring, Md. The work will be woven into nine lessons and carols. SAA will collect a freewill offering to support the chorale and humanitarian initiatives.

Spotlight is published in the Visitor by Spencerville Adventist Academy n 2502 Spencerville Road, Spencerville, MD 20868 Phone: (301) 421-9101 n spencervilleacademy.org n Principal, Tissiana Bowerman n Editor, Heidi Wetmore

34 | VISITOR November/December 2019

photos by mark froelich

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Academy Hosts Annual Convocation

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ach year Spring Valley Academy (SVA) hosts a spiritual Convocation Weekend to kick off the year by recommitting to the academy’s mission, each other and Jesus. Students, families and constituents recently converged on the SVA campus for a wonderful Convocation Sabbath on the theme, “What’s Next?”

People from all five constituent churches/entities attended and were blessed by music, speaking and breaking bread together.

The weekend began with a Friday evening vespers program that featured Steve Martin, performer, composer, band director, physical education teacher and vice principal from the North Shore Adventist Academy (Ill). Martin is an accomplished musician who owns The Oberer and O’Neal families enjoy a picnic lunch at The Longest Table.

This table provided enough room for everyone to sit and share a picnic lunch with one another. They had a lot to chew on, literally and figuratively. Many expressed their conviction that the Lord is truly leading and blessing SVA. Wilkins summed it up best: “We are committed to seeking His will and following His lead!”

IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS Seniors Torvy Wilkins and Makenna Lunde sing “Higher Ground” during SVA’s Convocation Weekend. more than 30 instruments, including brass, woodwinds, strings and accordions. During the concert, he performed an arrangement of hymns, each played on a different instrument.

The blessing continued the following morning as students and parents shared testimonies and words of encouragement for the school year. At the beginning of the worship service, Frank Perez, SVA board chair, called teachers and staff forward for a special dedicatory prayer. Principal Darren Wilkins delivered the charge “Next,” inspiring everyone for renewal of mission. Students and alumni also provided music.

The event ended with The Longest Table, set up outdoors under the canopy of trees behind the school.

November 6–10, Acrofest at Southern Adventist University (Tenn.)

November 18–22, Wellness Week, sponsored by the Home & School Association November 18, 7 p.m., Middle School/High School Band “Marvel” Reading Session Concert at FCWPA Chapel December 4–9, High School Choir Tour to NYC December 12, 7 p.m., Grades 5–8, Band and Choir “Feliz Navidad” Christmas Concert #1 at FCWPA Chapel December 13, 7 p.m., Early 5–Grade 4, Christmas Concert #2 at FCWPA Chapel December 14, 7 p.m., High School Band and Choir, “Celtic” Christmas Concert #3 at FCWPA Chapel

Connections is published in the Visitor by Spring Valley Academy n 1461 Spring Valley Pike, Centerville, OH 45458 Phone: (937) 433-0790 n springvalleyacademy.org n Principal, Darren Wilkins n Editor, Vicki Swetnam

columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 35

SVA Stars Volleyball: Winning for God’s Glory

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henandoah Valley Academy (SVA) math teacher and volleyball coach, Becky Patrick, is committed to girls’ sports. Patrick recognizes that girls who participate in sports are more likely to have lower rates of teen pregnancy, drug and alcohol abuse and possess more self-confidence. She has witnessed sports help girls focus more on their athletics than their aesthetics, and how teamwork has taught them to support and encourage one another: We lead each SVA girls’ volleyball season by focusing on the team mission found in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (NKJV).

The girls are encouraged to glorify God in their actions and words with each other; the teams they play; the spectators and the referees; to do their best; and to give their all with the physical talents He has given them. We pray for safety, to play our best and that we will glorify Him, whether we win or lose. We pray the same for the opposing team.

After recently losing a game that I felt perhaps we should have won, I asked the Lord, “What else do I need to do to help them win?” My thoughts were focused on the fact that we lost the game. God reminded me, however, what it meant to truly win.

Before the game, the opposing coach shared that one of her starting players fell and had likely broken her wrist. I mentioned this to our team, making sure they encouraged the other team because they were concerned about their teammate. During a timeout, one of our girls said, “At the end of the game, we should go and pray with the other team for their injured teammate.” Our team agreed.

So at the end of the game, the girls invited the opposing team to come to the middle of the court to pray. Holding hands intermingled with the other team, one of our girls prayed and thanked God for a fun, safe game. Then she prayed for the opposing team’s injured player. She asked God to comfort and keep her from fear. After the prayer, their coach hugged me, looked at me with tears in her eyes and commented, “I don’t know what to say.”

That game will not show up in the stats as a win.

However, it was a true win for God’s glory and for our team and school because we demonstrated that SVA students are focused on sharing His love with others.—Becky Patrick

IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS November 15–16 Senior Weekend December 13–14 Christmas Candlelight Concerts February 22–23 Middle School Basketball Tournament April 17–19 Alumni Weekend May 22–24 Graduation Weekend

Impact is published in the Visitor by Shenandoah Valley Academy n 234 West Lee Highway, New Market, VA 22844 Phone: (540) 740-3161 n shenandoahvalleyacademy.org n Principal, Donald Short n Editor, Janel Haas Ware

36 | VISITOR November/December 2019

Alumna Presents New Language at Alma Mater

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ommunication at times can be challenging. There are roughly 6,500 spoken languages in the world today, and around 70 million people use sign language to communicate. As a result, Takoma Academy’s (TA) own Tiffani Jackson (’09) is the CEO and visionary of TRJ Bridges, a platform that specializes in providing inclusion consulting, training and advocating for American Sign Language (ASL). Although ASL is used throughout the world, each country has their own system and ASL has dialects depending on the region.

At a recent visit on TA’s campus, she set up a booth with information about TRJ Bridges and informed TA students and staff about the service opportunities within the company.

TRJ Bridges is a certified, minority women-owned business that strives to include individuals with disabilities as valued patrons, especially with those users of ASL. Jackson’s passion for deaf access among the arts led her to become a Certified Disability manager through the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Commission. In particular, a friend of hers, Wade Green, inspired her to expand her knowledge in ASL. Jackson says, “I wanted to be able to ‘hear’/comprehend the voices of those who do not have a verbal voice.”

After graduating from TA in 2009, Jackson continued her studies at Faulkner University (Ala.), where she earned her degree in English. She then continued studying ASL and Interpreting at the Community College of Baltimore County in Catonsville, Md. Jackson’s goals are to strive to provide public awareness of accessibility rights, sign language

Tiffani Jackson (’09) is the CEO and visionary of TRJ Bridges, a platform that specializes in providing inclusion consulting, training and advocating for American Sign Language.

education and advocacy. “We desire to be a community ASSET: “Access-Service-Supports-EncourageTrain.” We aim to increase the number of minority interpreters of color by exposing the field of language translation to children at their precious influential age.”

Sign language is accompanied by its own definite grammar. Spoken language is interpreted by being able to hear, using speech and punctuation. Sign language, instead, replaces these senses and actions with gestures and body language. Jackson explains the importance of displaying correct gestures: “It is a linguistic language. Used improperly is considered as mispronunciation or gibberish.”

In some languages, misinterpretation can be common. What sets ASL apart from other languages is the expression to convey intelligent communication.

The TRJ Bridges’ Reap ASL Enrichment Program is designed to expose school-aged children to ASL, deaf people and deaf culture to provide an opportunity for them to view their world through a different perspective. Jackson concludes, “My goal is to help paint a new picture for students to see deaf and hard of hearing people as individuals who speak another language, not as people with disabilities.”

To learn more, visit trjbridges.com/ta-registration.

TA Today is published in the Visitor by Takoma Academy n 8120 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 Phone: (301) 434-4700 n ta.edu n Principal, Carla Thrower n Editor, Salena Featherstone

columbiaunionvisitor.com VISITOR | 37

news Bible or Not? Program Brings Bible to Families About the time you’re picking up children from school or heading home from a long workday, many people play the game “Bible or Not” with our afternoon hosts Johnny and Stacey Stone. It’s simple enough. Johnny gives three phrases and you (along with your family members in the car) can guess if the phrase is from the Bible or from another source, like a quote from a famous person. Stacey or another host can help you with a “lifeline” if you’re not sure, which always makes it exciting. Get all three correct, and you win!

“Although it’s a game designed for fun, the inspiration for creating it was to encourage moms, dads, and their children to have conversations about the Bible,” says Johnny.

“Because it’s on the radio, people can also play along without calling in. In fact, we recently heard from several White House employees who said they play along each Johnny talks with a young listener this past summer. afternoon on their drive home.”

In addition to playing “Bible or Not” on the air, Johnny and Stacey have hosted the game at local churches, WGTS concerts and Sticker Stops, and even on a WGTS riverboat cruise.

Both Johnny and Stacey say, “The game makes the Bible accessible and alive to those who are listening to WGTS 91.9. It takes the Bible from a devotion time or quiet time and applies it to life in new ways. The game highlights God’s Word and takes it front and center for families and listeners to enjoy and learn more about it.”

You can hear “Bible or Not” weekdays on WGTS at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.

What ‘Hands and Heart’ Means to WGTS At WGTS 91.9 we believe in leaving the studios to get into the communities we serve to meet and talk with listeners. That’s how our Hands and Heart initiative began.

“It is important that we provide opportunities for ourselves and our listeners to be the hands and heart of Jesus in the neighborhoods and cities around us,” says general manager Kevin Krueger. Over the years, these campaigns have included collecting food and water; diapers, backpacks, school supplies, and toys; and Mother’s Day cards that are distributed to groups throughout our area and beyond.

“Just as Jesus used his hands to bring hope and healing to others, we desire to be a conduit for blessing and encouragement to people who need a boost,” says Krueger.

2099 Gaither Road Rockville, MD 20850 200.902.6000 wgts919.com

Find support and pray for others.

Visit wgts919.com/PrayerWorks.

AN OPEN LETTER FROM A MEMBER OF THE COLUMBIA UNION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE I recently received an open letter from a Columbia Union Executive Member that I’d like to share with our WAU Community: “Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In reviewing the recent 10-year history, I was amazed at the steady growth and financial security WAU has experienced…I remember, all too well, being a part of the Board that was tasked to vote whether or not to close Columbia Union College. We voted for it to remain open and the name be changed to Washington Adventist University. I felt that it was important for me to stop and take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for being a visionary in the Gateway to Service. Your dedication and leadership has completely lifted WAU to heights that we thought never to be accomplished. This is no small task, and heavy are the shoulders of responsibility for shaping and providing a well-rounded accredited and stellar curriculum; and an environment for learning. Our daughter has had the benefit of a Christian education in her foundation years of her career. I remember well the ground breaking for the Leroy and Lois Peters Music Center, the first building in (40) years. We were so delighted when of all the schools she had been accepted, this is where she chose to attend. Do know my constant prayers are with you as you continue in His service at Washington Adventist University! May God bless you and keep you and your family.”

It takes a team of dedicated, committed and innovative individuals to create a learning community that effectively engage minds and transform lives.

This is Washington Adventist University!

Weymouth Spence President

Our NEW M.Ed. in School Counseling Washington Adventist University was recently approved by the Maryland State Department of Education for a joint psychology-education M.Ed. School Counseling degree. This is a nontraditional 48 credit hour 18 month degree program offered through our School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS). Students who have a background in education, counseling, psychology, theology, or social work will find this degree to be an excellent career selection. This type of career is great for those who want to offer psychological counseling, identify learning disabilities, assist students in choosing potential career paths, serve as a liaison between the student and parent, improve student learning and teaching efficacy. School counselors are compassionate, empathetic, intelligent, and passionate about enhancing the lives of students.

WAU’s motto “Gateway to Service” captures the spirit of this new program. Graduate students throughout the program are taught to be sensitive to the emotional, spiritual, and physical health in order to facilitate the academic and learning process. WAU’s joint psychology and education departments mission is assist the graduate student to develop into a fully competent, caring, ethically motivated school counselor based upon the standards maintained by Maryland State Department of Education, American School Counselors Association, and Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs for School Counseling.

School counselors play an important role in private and public schools but sadly there are not enough school counselors to adequately deal with the problems encountered by young people. To meet this challenge and as a part of the professional training, graduate students take such courses as Introduction to School Counseling, Special Education Counseling, Techniques & Theories of School Counseling, Program & Planning, Practicum and School Internship.

This new degree is designed to train, equip, and prepare graduate students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experiences in school counseling using various class scheduling formats so that students may work and complete their degree on time. Graduate students develop professional school counseling skills that will assist K-12 students to be successful in life. Students gain practical experience as they complete their School Practicum and Internship placement in the Prince Georges County Public School system.

This new degree is a great opportunity for students who want a faith-based counseling program. We are told in Matthew 9:35-38 that preaching, teaching and healing are important avenues to reach people who are weary and have no life direction for they are in need of a compassionate counselor. The harvest is large and we need individuals who desire to reach those K-12 students who are lonely, depressed, abused, bullied, addicted, and filled with anxiety. Will you be the one to answer this call?

Come and meet our outstanding faculty who have the academic training, field experience, and are committed to our biblical message of hope. If you want to make a big difference in the life of a young person, in a school setting, then make a decision now to enroll for spring 2020 admission. You are invited to contact Elcy Chacko (X4138) our enrollment counselor in SGPS and apply now.

7600 Flower Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912 | wau.edu

Care.

Compassion.

Community.

In Every Moment, Large and Small When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your love, O Lord, supported me. ~ Psalm 94:18, NIV Have you ever been walking down the stairs and thought there was one more stair to go?

But there wasn’t – so your foot connected with the floor a few inches sooner than you were expecting? And it made a little slapping noise and for just a moment you lost your balance, but then you were okay.

Or have you ever been going up the stairs and thought there was an extra step and suddenly found yourself negotiating nothing but air where you thought should have been a place for your foot to land?

Or have you ever been taking a walk, and suddenly a rock pokes itself up out of the pathway, and you stumble and start to fall forward until you catch yourself or the person walking with you catches you?

When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your love, O Lord, supported me. ~ Psalm 94:18, NIV When life pushes in, when things don’t go as we planned, when the pathway gets rocky, when relationships are complicated, when your foot starts to slip – it is exactly at that moment that we can ask for God’s help and know that help will come. We will not be left alone; we will not be helpless.

The range of God’s love and care for us is all encompassing; it takes in every aspect of our lives. And not just the big, important things, but also the small ones: the foot slips, computer crashes, traffic jams, recipe failures, dropped balls, missed opportunities, wrong exits, little misunderstandings – it all matters.

In every moment of our lives, your love, O Lord, supports us!

Hospitals Earn National Recognition for Quality Stroke Care Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center and Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center each recently were honored by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association for their commitment in ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

Each received the associations’ “Get with The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award” with a Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus designation.

Shady Grove Medical Center and White Oak Medical Center earned awards by meeting seven quality measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients for 24 consecutive months or more. These measures track the proper use of medications and other stroke treatments, aligned with the most up-todate, evidence-based guidelines. The goal is faster recovery and better long-term outcomes for stroke patients.

Both hospitals also received the association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet quality measures developed to reduce the time between the patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke.

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the United States.

On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds and nearly 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

Terry Forde President & CEO Adventist HealthCare

820 West Diamond Avenue, Suite 600 • Gaithersburg, MD 20878 • 301-315-3030 • AdventistHealthCare.com

YOUR HEALING MINISTRY K E T T E R I N G A D V E N T I S T H E A LT H C A R E N E W S L E T T E R

Two Hearts Still Beating

By Christina Keresoma

Jerry Burrey has always been a hardworking man. He is a builder, and when his brother asked him to come over and help remove some bushes from his yard, Jerry was there.

Jerry’s brother left to get something from his truck, but Jerry kept working. Soon Jerry’s cellphone rang, and when he looked at it, he saw it was his brother. He thought that it was a mistake, so he declined the call. It rang again, so he answered it questionably. He heard mumbling and knew something was wrong. Jerry ran around the house and found his brother lying face down by his truck. He had suffererd a heart attack and was rushed to Sycamore Medical Center. Jerry stayed by his brother’s side during the entire process at the hospital.

He became friends with the physicians and nurses who cared for his brother, watching the care that was given and the healing that took place.

A few days after Christmas, Jerry felt some chest pain. He went to the Emergency Room, where he learned he was having heart issues and needed to see a cardiologist. Jerry knew exactly where he wanted to go and who he wanted taking care of him. He knew he needed the best care not only for him but for his family. He was now fighting for his life so that he could continue to be around for his family. “This whole process, the hardest thing about it was the effect that it had on my family.

They made a bad situation tolerable,” said Jerry.

He is eternally grateful for what the physicians and staff did for him during his stay in the hospital. “If I was a rich man, I would build a wing on the hospital, but I am not,” Jerry said. He and his wife celebrated 47 years of marriage while he was in the hospital, and while it wasn’t an ideal place to celebrate an anniversary Jerry is thankful that he will now be able to celebrate many more.

After surgery, his physician shared the good news with his family in the waiting room that Jerry was doing just fine, and everyone was overcome with joy.

Adventist HealthCare

™

KETTERING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE • 3535 SOUTHERN BLVD. • KETTERING, OH 45429 • (937) 298-3399 • KETTERINGHEALTH.ORG

THE NEWS

K E T T E R I N G A D V E N T I S T H E A LT H C A R E N E W S L E T T E R

Kettering Sleep Center Offers Treatment Alternative to CPAP Machine The Sleep Center at Kettering Medical Center is offering a new treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea who don’t tolerate or benefit from CPAP therapy.

Inspire is an FDA-approved obstructive sleep apnea treatment. It’s a device that’s implanted under the skin of the neck and chest during an outpatient procedure. The device is controlled by a small, handheld remote. While you sleep, Inspire delivers mild stimulation to key airway muscles, allowing the airway to remain open–without a mask, hose, or machine.

“We are excited to be the first in the Dayton area to offer the Inspire sleep apnea system,” says Kevin Carter, DO, medical director of the Sleep Center at Kettering Medical Center. “About 30 percent of patients who try CPAP therapy stop using the device for various reasons. Inspire can give patients hope and another chance to effectively treat their sleep-related breathing disorder.”

Homefull Opens Fresh Produce Farm Stand at Grandview Homefull, an organization that provides services to the homeless, opened a fresh produce farm stand in Grandview Medical Center’s lobby.

“Homefull is excited to expand our produce farm stand to Grandview Medical Center because this will help people living in food deserts access affordable, fresh produce,” says Tina Patterson, Homefull CEO. “Our farm stands also help provide training and jobs to our persons served. Purchases will support our programs, ultimately addressing our goals of increasing and improving housing, food, and jobs.”

The Homefull farm stand will sell produce from Homefull’s urban farms and other local growers. Homefull assists community garden growers, particularly those located in West Dayton, with technical assistance so they may offer their produce at pop-up markets.

“We are extremely pleased to partner with Homefull in making fresh produce available to our patient families, employees, and neighbors,” says Becky Lewis, president of Grandview Medical Center. “Homefull and Grandview both are committed to the health and wellness of people in our community, and this farm stand is another way for us to honor that commitment.”

Adventist HealthCare

™

KETTERING HEALTHCARE 44 | VISITORADVENTIST November/December 2019 • 3535 SOUTHERN BLVD. • KETTERING, OH 45429 • (937) 298-3399 • KETTERINGHEALTH.ORG

Remember the exciting mission stories that captured your imagination as a child?

They’re still happening today!

Here’s just a taste of what you can watch: From “Witch” to Witness awr.org/ranja

Trading Guns for God awr.org/rebels

Why have rebels in the Philippines been laying down their machine guns and picking up Bibles?

Watch to find out!

Ranja was held captive by the spirits that possessed her . . . until the day she turned on her radio.

Taking a Bold Stand awr.org/wisam

Wisam’s own family tried to stone him for his belief in God, but today he is an Adventist pastor in the Middle East.

Get ready to watch videos of modern-day miracles happening around the world through AWR360° Broadcast to Baptism.

Let’s Connect!

awr360 |

awr360 |

Adventist World Radio 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904

awr.360 |

awr.org/videos |

awr.org

Bulletin Board VISITOR ADVERTISING AND SERVICES Advertising n The Visitor does not endorse or guarantee the integrity of any product or service advertised and does not accept responsibility for typographical or categorical errors. For advertising guidelines and rates: columbiaunionvisitor.com/advertising Ad Submissions: sjones@columbiaunion.net Obituary Submission n Obituaries are posted free of charge for members of the Columbia Union. To submit an obituary: columbiaunionvisitor.com/obituary Subscriptions n Nonmembers of the Columbia Union may subscribe to the Visitor for a fee. For more information: columbiaunionvisitor.com/subscription Contact Us Columbia Union Visitor 5427 Twin Knolls Rd Columbia, MD 21045 (410) 997-3414 visitor@columbiaunion.net

EMPLOYMENT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS has an opening for an Associate Director of Software Development. This position is full time and at the headquarters located in Silver Spring, Md. A BA/BS is required; master’s degree preferred. Five or more years of experience in seniorlevel computer responsibilities, including supervisory experience is required. Must be an Adventist church member. Send résumés to Ruthie Stavenhagen at StavenhagenR@gc.adventist.org.

REMNANT PUBLICATIONS/ PRINTER PUBLISHER, seeking qualified, dedicated, ministryminded personnel for the following positions: production workers, sales consultants and social media/marketing expert.

All positions must be U.S. citizens and be willing to relocate in Coldwater, Mich. For more information, visit remnantpublications.com/employment. Send résumés to jobs@remnantmail. com. Call (800) 423-1319.

CHILD IMPACT INTERNATIONAL is seeking a general manager. Applicants must have management skills including experience in marketing, fundraising, planning, effective communication and church events; a passion for education and orphans/underprivileged children; the ability to lead a small but growing ministry based in Collegedale, Tenn. Applicant to work closely with CEO in strategic planning and operations.

Domestic and international travel required. Application deadline is January 31, 2020. For more details: support@childimpact.org.

LPN POSITION: Elternhaus, an Adventist, family-owned assisted living near Columbia, Md., seeks qualified LPN to work full-time in our home. Qualities seeking: Mature, patient, nurturing individual with experience in nursing homes or assisted living.

Responsibilities include health assessment, medication management, staff training and administrative licensure compliance.

Work closely with the Health Services director to oversee the general health and well-being of our residents. Interested? Call Tim Mayer, (240) 286-3635.

WORKERS NEEDED FOR FRUIT FARM: Looking for a couple or small family to grow with us on our 65-acre fruit farm in Lyons, N.Y. Must be experienced in fruit production and equipment, and be versatile, since we are expanding into other areas. Free housing on premises. See our website, AlbrinFruitFarm.com, and contact us by phone, (315) 946-6444.

UNION COLLEGE invites applicants for an accounting teaching faculty position. Qualified applicants will have an MBA or Master’s in Accounting and should be a committed member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. A doctorate is preferred.

Find more information at ucollege. edu/faculty-openings, or contact Lisa Forbes at lisa.l.forbes@ ucollege.edu.

MISCELLANEOUS HYMNS AND FAVORITES. Classic music of the church— songs that will enrich your life and warm your soul.

HymnsandFavorites.com—listen

46 | VISITOR November/December 2019

right now and anytime online with your smartphone or computer.

Hymns and Favorites is brought to you by and is a ministry of WGTS 91.9.

WILDWOOD LIFESTYLE CENTER. We have helped people avoid or reverse disease for almost 80 years. We can help you with diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, obesity, depression, anxiety and more. Call today, (800) 6349355, or visit wildwoodhealth.com.

We care about your health!

FARMERS AND GARDNERS: 6th Annual Adventist Agriculture Association (AdAgrA) Conference, January 14–18, 2020, in High Springs, Fla. Since 2013 AdAgrA encourages, supports and mentors those who wish to follow God’s agriculture plan. Great information and inspiration for how and why Adventists need to be in the garden. Registration and info: adventistag.org.

PERFECT GRACE! — IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS, written by Adventist Pastor Tom Hughes, is a totally unique and fresh look at the first angel’s message. Righteousness by faith, perfection, the investigative judgment, the sanctuary in heaven, last generation theology and heaven-directed worship are looked at with new eyes and a spirit-led discernment.

Order at any ABC or major bookstore, or simply go to pastortomhughes.com, where the first 50 orders will receive Tom’s latest CD as a bonus!

SERVICES MOVE with an award-winning agency. Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Call us for your relocation needs.

Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Call Marcy Danté at (800) 766-1902 for a free estimate. Visit us at apexmoving.com/adventist.

MARYLAND ADVENTIST PODIATRIST: Dr. Scott Nutter, highly trained, experienced and board certified, is available in several locations to help your foot/ankle problems, including arthritis, heel pain, spurs, diabetes, callouses, ingrown nails, sprains, fractures, warts, bunions, etc. Surgery, if needed, at Adventist hospitals. Offices in Laurel and Maple Lawn/Fulton.

Call (301) 317-6800.

ELTERNHAUS ASSISTED LIVING, Adventist family-owned and -operated, provides specialized care from independent to total-care residents in a family setting. Delicious vegetarian food, activities, Friday night vespers and a shuttle to church Sabbath morning, just to name a few of the many options. Visit us at elternhausalf.com. Elternhaus also offers a great work environment for Adventist caregivers, LPNs and RNs. Call Tim Mayer, (240) 286-3635.

MARYLAND ADVENTIST DENTIST, DAVID LEE, DDS, FAGD, AFAAID, FICOI, FAACP, has practices located in Silver Spring and Columbia, Md. He is extensively trained in implant, cosmetic, TMD/TMJ, sleep apnea treatment, sedation and laser dentistry. Dr. Lee is an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, as well as having many other certifications. For appointments, call (301) 649-5001 or (410) 461-6655. Mention this ad and receive a 10 percent discount on all services, excluding third-party payers. We welcome new patients!

TEACH SERVICES: Helping authors make their book a reality. Call (800) 367-1844 for your free manuscript evaluation. We publish all book formats and provide worldwide distribution. View new books at TEACHServices.com or ask your local ABC. View used Adventist books at LNFbooks.com.

ANNOUNCEMENTS EBENEZER SANCTUARY CHOIR and combined choirs present George Frideric Handel’s Messiah, at the Ebenezer Adventist Church, Sabbath, December 14, at 11 a.m., during divine worship. The church is located at 1437 Christian St., Philadelphia, PA 19146. For more information, call (215) 545-2650.

“JOURNEY TOWARD INTIMACY” MARRIAGE RETREAT, will be held February 21-23, 2020, at the Dunes Manor Hotel in Ocean City, Md. Willie and Elaine Oliver will be the presenters of the sessions, which run from Friday evening to Sunday morning. For more information, email peglites@comcast. net, or contact Mark and Peggy Lee, (301) 801-2344.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE: LOVELY BRICK, COUNTRY HOME IN W.Va., with breathtaking view: Three

large BR (one with outside entrance), living room with brick fireplace, kitchen/dining area, family room with gas fireplace.

On 13 acres with pasture, great garden spaces, much timber, and some fruit trees. Good well and spring water. Studio outbuilding that needs some TLC but has great apartment potential. Within 30–45 min. of several Adventist churches. Phone/text (303) 5142617, email fine.deanna@yahoo. com for pictures.

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Featuring Washington Adventist University

We deliver

Pro Musica

smiles

Anwar Ottley, director and

Join our community

REAL ESTATE AGENT IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA AND MARYLAND For Seller and Buyer Sarah Kwon, Realtor, Associate Broker United Real Estate Reston, Va.

The New England Youth Ensemble Preston Hawes, director

DEC. 7, 2019 4 P.M.

You can make someone smile, too!

Call: (703) 887-8469 Email: KwonRealty@gmail.com

Frederick Seventh-day Adventist Church 6347 Jefferson Pike Frederick, MD 21703 frederickadventistchurch.org ChurchOffice@ FrederickAdventistChurch.org

Website: kwonrealty.com

301-662-5254

402.488.0981

Leasing and Property Management Services Available

ChristianRecord.org/give

A Free Will Offering Will Be Taken

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Baltimore 6:07 4:59 4:53 4:48 4:45 4:43 4:43 4:46 4:49 Cincinnati 6:38 5:31 5:25 5:20 5:17 5:15 5:15 5:18 5:21 Cleveland 6:23 5:15 5:08 5:02 4:59 4:57 4:57 4:59 5:03 Columbus 6:31 5:23 5:17 5:12 5:08 5:07 5:07 5:09 5:13 Jersey City 5:54 4:46 4:39 4:34 4:31 4:29 4:29 4:31 4:35 Norfolk

6:09 5:02 4:56 4:52 4:49 4:48 4:49 4:51 4:55

Parkersburg 6:26 5:19 5:12 5:08 5:04 5:03 5:03 5:05 5:06 Philadelphia 6:00 4:52 4:45 4:40 4:37 4:35 4:36 4:38 4:42 Pittsburgh 6:18 5:19 5:03 4:58 4:58 4:53 4:53 4:56 4:59 Reading

6:02 4:54 4:48 4:42 4:39 4:37 4:38 4:40 4:43

Richmond 6:13 5:06 5:00 4:55 4:53 4:51 4:52 4:54 4:58 Roanoke 6:23 5:16 5:10 5:06 5:03 5:02 5:03 5:05 5:09 Toledo

6:30 5:22 5:15 5:10 5:06 5:04 5:04 5:06 5:10

Trenton

5:58 4:50 4:43 4:38 4:35 4:33 4:33 4:35 4:39

Wash., D.C. 6:09 5:01 4:55 4:50 4:47 4:46 4:46 4:48 4:52

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