Living Beyond the Death of Your Loved One outlookmag.org/death-is-thegreat-suffering/
THE (ADVENTIST) WORLD IS COMING…
For the second time in three years, the General Conference Session will be held in St. Louis. In 2022 it was a scaled-back version, due to Covid-19. This summer the 10-day event is open to everyone who wishes to attend.
As I ponder this giant gathering, I wonder what the thousands of guests from around the world will be experiencing as they come to our territory. Will some of our customs and habits seem a bit strange to them? Will our priorities mesh with theirs? Will they value the things we value?
I was struck by a particular sentence in the mission trip story on p. 23: “The differences in our lives and cultures became the glue that brought us together.” I pray that this may be the case in St. Louis, for the honor and glory of the God we all serve.
Scott Cushman news@uau.edu 402.486.2600 x2275 uau.edu
BRENDA DICKERSON editor
Is the GC Session we Hold Every Five Years Worth the Time and Money?
I get asked that question quite often, especially in the weeks before the session is scheduled to begin. People start to calculate in their heads the cost of so many making their way from around the world to St. Louis for the 10-day event. Then they begin to add up all the costs of the exhibitors, the facility costs, production costs... and the number gets big. Some begin to think, “There has got to be a better way to use those funds!”
First, let me tell you the church spends an average of about a dime per member per year on General Conference Session costs. That’s 50 cents per member every five years for us to come together. Of course, when you have over 20 million members, that too is a big number. So, what happens at the GC Session that makes all the costs and work that goes into it worth it?
become around the globe. These are people I would never meet if we didn’t come together as a world church.
4. Through the exhibit hall, we are all exposed to the latest ways in which we can reach out to our dying world with our great message of hope—whether it is a new way to use technology, the printed page, the radio wave, the internet, or our health message to touch people’s lives. You truly come home inspired to be more engaged with this end-time movement.
There are many reasons one could list, but I will only share my top five.
1. The GC Session is the only venue in which the church can make decisions as to who will serve as our president, along with all the other elected positions. Delegates from around the world have the final decision on who they feel the Lord would want to lead our movement. This is so important because the delegate group is made up of 50 percent lay people, and the others are front line workers and administrators from around the globe. These important decisions are not left up to a handful of administrators, but rather for the nearly 3,000 delegates to decide.
2. The GC Session is where we can make decisions together about our policies and our Church Manual. Both are crucial to the mission and ministry of our church. These policies and guidelines define how we work together to fulfill our mission. If good care is not given to this process, we can hinder our ability to spread the everlasting gospel.
3. The renewal of friendships—and the ability to make new friends—from around the world is priceless. I will never forget the pastors I have met from the other side of the world and hearing their stories of how God is working in their fields. It is absolutely awe inspiring. The GC gives us the opportunity to stretch our minds with how expansive our church has
5. Finally, the GC offers a unique opportunity to worship together our Savior and King, Jesus Christ. In a world that is more divided and torn apart than ever, to see people from nearly every country on the planet come together in peace and worship is nothing short of a miracle and proof positive that, in Christ, we are one. Not only are the messages inspiring, but the music is simply amazing. Instrumentalists, vocalists and choirs from around the world thrill us beyond words with the incredible talents the Lord has given them. Simply worshiping together as a world church would be enough reason for me to hold the GC session.
What are your plans for attending the GC Session? This is the last time it will be held in Mid-America for quite a while. I urge you to come and experience it. If you are not able to come and listen in on the business sessions during the week, come at least for Sabbath to worship. The auditorium holds 70,000 people, and event planners hope it will be full. There is nothing else like it! I hope to see you there!
GARY THURBER is president of the Mid-America Union.
The General Conference Session
Why? How? When? Where?
When Rachel Preston remonstrated with Frederick Wheeler over his apparent rejection of the 10 Commandments in March of 1844, neither of them knew what would result from their exchange. Preston, a Sabbath- keeping Baptist, and Pastor Wheeler, a faithful proponent of traditional Sunday observance as well as a new believer in the imminent return of Jesus, were the instruments God used as the first Sabbath-keeping Adventists in the United States.
Not long after the disappointment of Oct. 22, 1844, the conversation Preston and Wheeler began gained the attention of Joseph Bates, and then James White, Ellen Harmon, and some others. And from those conversations the roots of what we know today as the Seventhday Adventist Church took on new life.
Global key factors for endurance Currently, church records globally show our movement with over 23 million
members. Those members are scattered throughout nearly all the inhabited world. Even as recently as late last year, the church re-established its presence in Greenland.
How does a church that social scientists describe as one of the most diverse Christian denominations manage to stay together, stay healthy, and keep growing— over 180 years later?
Without a doubt, the blessing of God has been at work in powerful ways. Yet built on that foundation, there are several other factors: 1) a
unique but biblically powerful prophetic message; 2) an organizational structure of interdependent entities enabling fast and effective communication streams available to all members; 3) a K-graduate school system that continually educates the next generation in the message and lifestyle of the church and lifts the cultural conditions of the regions in which they operate; 4) a system of health entities that inform the lifestyle and gain the attention of the general public globally. And more.
How does the structure work?
The structure of the church works like this: a person joins a local church and becomes a member; groups of local churches band together in local conferences; local conferences join themselves in groups into what we call union conferences, or in some cases union missions. The unions are the building blocks of the General Conference itself.
Each unit or level of the church is tied to the other levels through shared beliefs, shared policies, and a shared mission. Except for the individual member and the local church, the other entities (conferences and unions) are constituency based, with delegates and leaders selected to represent the membership when those groups meet periodically in harmony with their organizing documents.
The General Conference delegates are members and local leaders selected by the union conferences around the world. Care is taken to make sure the delegates are representative of those areas of the world from which they are chosen. Those delegates will number nearly
3,000 when they gather this year in St Louis, Missouri, July 3-12.
The General Conference has divided itself into 13 divisions around the world.
Joining those divisions are four attached fields, not included in the unions and divisions because of geopolitical conditions. Unions are the foundations of the General Conference, but the GC itself is the foundation of the divisions and the attached fields.
When it comes to the GC Session, which meets every five years in a quinquennial session, the structure of the church is on full display. (Covid- 19 delayed the 2020 session until 2022.)
Each union’s delegation is built on a proportion of the whole, by a formula. Larger unions membership-wise have more delegates.
What happens during sessions?
At the session, several things will happen. A large committee (approximately 250) made up of select delegates from all the unions will serve as the group that nominates leaders to fill various positions. No elected GC leaders are on that committee. A
president is recommended first for the delegates to approve, or not. Only one presidential name at a time is brought to the delegates for a Yes or No vote. Once that is done, the president then meets with the committee to serve as an advisor. However, he doesn’t have a vote, and the committee is not required to take his suggestions.
In addition to the election of leaders of the GC, divisions, and attached fields, delegates will be asked to vote on suggested changes to the Church Manual, the Constitution and By-laws, and changes to the Fundamental Beliefs statement that codifies the doctrinal understandings of the church. This year there are no recommendations being made to adjust the 28 Fundamental Beliefs. Changes to the Constitution and Fundamental Beliefs require a two-thirds majority vote.
The GC Session days will begin with devotional preaching and the evenings will be filled with mission
THOMAS L. LEMON is a vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and a former president of the Mid-America Union Conference headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.
reports from the divisions. Interspersed throughout the business sessions will be a plethora of Adventist music from around the world. Several hundred church entities and other ministries will portray their missional endeavors and share their resources in a nearby giant hall of activities. The exhibit hall is a favorite feature of the GC Session for many attendees.
Every GC Session is planned to be an event of highly spiritual engagement. For those who are familiar with what we call camp meeting, the meeting in St. Louis will be, in a real sense, a global camp meeting. On Sabbaths the crowd is expected to largely fill the convention center arena in downtown St. Louis, which seats 70,000.
The General Conference in Session is something special to behold. Plans are being finalized now, and you may expect this to be a spiritual feast. The fellowship with like-minded believers is designed to encourage every attendee.
At14 years old, I found myself standing in the back of my first-period reading class, trying to explain why I had fallen asleep. I hadn’t meant to drift off, but I was exhausted. I didn’t even realize the teacher had stopped reading until she called me out. I stood, embarrassed, and apologized immediately.
Her response, though, shook me: “You cannot come to class like this,” she said, looking me up and down. “What are you— high? Hungover?”
“What?!” My heart dropped. Suddenly, I was wide awake.
She didn’t know my story. She didn’t know that my mother was often away overnight and that I was the one responsible for getting my younger siblings fed, ready, and out the door for school— if there was even food to give them. That morning had been especially rough. We hadn’t eaten the night before, and I had barely slept.
“Lower your voice,” she said sharply. “I told you: You cannot come to class like this.”
I stepped back, deeply offended. “You don’t even know me,” I said. “I just fell asleep!”
“You need to leave,” she said, pointing at the door. “Go to the principal’s office. We’re done talking about this.”
And just like that, I walked out. I left behind not only my backpack and books, but also something much bigger—my trust in teachers. That year, I failed nearly all my classes.
Beginning The of Eternity
I stopped trying. I stopped believing school could be a safe place for me.
A new beginning
The next year, for high school, I made a bold choice. Against my mother’s advice, I applied to and enrolled at Holbrook Indian School, a private Seventh-day Adventist boarding school. She was skeptical: “That’s a Christian school,” she warned. “They’ll lie to you. They’ll tell you anything to make you believe what they believe.”
But something in me was desperate for a fresh start— something different, something better.
Even as I walked onto campus that first day, I had already built up walls. I promised myself I wouldn’t be fooled by Christian kindness or religious talk. I would do the work and keep my distance.
But the people at Holbrook were nothing like I expected. These weren’t the Christians my mother had warned me about. They didn’t shove beliefs down my throat. Instead, they listened. They asked questions. They saw me. And not just the “student” version of me, but the tired, hurting, searching teenager behind the grades and attitude.
They cared—not just about what I did in class, but about what was going on in my heart. Slowly, the walls I had built began to crack. I found safety, support, and belonging. I was baptized
during my time at Holbrook, but more than that, I found a calling. I committed my life to Adventist education.
Growing faith-filled changemakers
Now, I see the same beauty every day in our classrooms.
Our multi-grade learning environments give students the space to grow at their own pace, while allowing teachers to meet them where they are—academically, emotionally, and spiritually. Morning worships and Bible classes don’t just highlight our priorities—they model for students how to make God a priority in their own lives. Our academies pursue academic excellence, but they also teach life
skills—resilience, responsibility, and community—that prepare students for whatever path they choose after graduation.
The church calls “eternity” our mission—and I believe our schools are where eternity begins. They are growing tomorrow’s leaders, thinkers, and faith-filled changemakers.
Please, join me in praying for our schools this year—for our teachers, our staff, and most importantly, for the incredible young people who walk through our doors each day. They deserve our support, our prayers, and our belief in who they can become.
Jovannah Poor Bear-Adams is education superintendent for the Iowa-Missouri Conference.
2025
Caring Heart
AWARDS
Campion Academy
Each school year, senior academies in the North American Division select a junior or senior student with a strong citizenship record, a personal commitment to witnessing and service, and an overall positive influence on their campus to receive a $500 scholarship, a plaque and an engraved Bible.
Marcela Zuniga is a shining example of servant leadership, consistently demonstrating kindness, integrity and a heart for others. As a resident hall assistant for two years, she has been a source of support and encouragement for her peers, always ready with a listening ear and warm smile. Her dedication to serving extends beyond the campus, as she has participated in multiple mission trips, sharing her compassion and faith with those in need. She is known for her honesty, speaking the truth with grace and standing firm in her values. Her words affirm and uplift, making those around her feel seen and valued. Marcela embodies the spirit of selfless service, leaving a lasting impact on our school community.
College View Academy
This year College View Academy is proud to nominate Andrew Stubbendieck for the CaringHeart Award! Over his time in the high school it has been an honor and blessing to watch Andrew grow into an authentic walk with Jesus. His earnest desire to be a disciple of Jesus has been revealed in many ways on campus. Andrew leads in multiple campus ministry opportunities through service, teaching, preaching and organizing events that lead others to a personal connection with God. Andrew has also been caring for and mentoring other students on campus. We are excited to watch God continue to grow him in his service for others and are proud he is part of our school
Dakota Adventist Academy
Theodore Schaible was designated as the DAA senior with a caring heart. Though he has come from a difficult background, he has overcome many of those obstacles. He genuinely tries to be a friend to everyone. He works well with adults and anticipates the needs of others. In his day to day efforts in the classroom, Theo strives to understand and then helps others understand as well. At his work on campus, he is thoughtful and willing to do what is assigned to him. If the work supervisor is late, Theo is known to pick up the work he knows needs to be done and does it with a cheerful attitude. He also picks up on others’ feelings and tries to help them deal with disappointments or other setbacks.
Maplewood Academy
MWA is proud to honor Christian Valdez-Nolasco, a senior, with the Caring Heart Award for his outstanding dedication and leadership. Christian’s genuine kindness and love for God shines in absolutely everything he does. He is a campus leader, serving on the Campus Ministries team, leading praise music, and guiding Bible studies in the dorms. He has excellently led as an assistant music director, assistant drama director, class officer, National Honor Society member, and the list goes on. His influence on our campus has been immeasurable!
Midland Adventist Academy
Julia Rockufeler’s leadership is defined by her boldness and her commitment to her faith. Whether she’s leading a chapel, motivating her teammates, or taking charge in the classroom, Julia’s voice is always one of clarity and conviction. She knows what needs to be done and steps up to make it happen, all while maintaining a deep respect for those around her. Her actions are grounded in love and service, making her an example of what it means to lead with purpose. Julia’s impact is undeniable—she leads with strength, speaks with heart, and puts others first.
Mile High Academy
Emalee Zachawerus is the deserving recipient of this year’s Caring Heart Award for MHA. Known for her radiant smile and warm greetings, Emalee is a friend to all and a true light in our high school. Her beautiful voice, leadership and consistently positive attitude uplift everyone around her. Emalee’s deep relationship with God shines through in the way she loves others and carries herself with grace and humility. She is an outstanding student—respectful, responsible, and compassionate. Emalee has a special gift for making others feel welcome and seen, creating a sense of belonging wherever she goes.
Sunnydale Adventist Academy
As chaplain of his senior class, Brady Dye has committed to lead his peers in a closer relationship with God in practical ways. He reads his Bible and spends time with God, while also doing Bible study with others. When there is a job to be done, Brady can be counted on to finish it, and finish it well. While at SAA Brady has gone to countries (Honduras, India and Tanzania) on three different continents for mission trips. He also works hard doing local community service and working at Camp Heritage. Brady is the definition of practical Christianity—he loves God, spends time with Him and serves those around him.
More Than Free Care
Pathway to Health Brings Healing, Hope and the Love of Christ to St. Louis
During four days last May, nearly 2,050 volunteers came together to serve at the Your Best Pathway to Health clinic in downtown St. Louis, providing 7,722 patient visits with free medical, dental, vision and spiritual care. More than just offering treatment, the event shared Christ’s love through compassion, prayer and hope. The mega clinic was held at the America’s Center Convention Complex and was open to all, with no insurance, documentation or ID required.People lined up early Monday morning to receive services ranging from cardiology and dermatology to pediatrics, women’s health, minor surgeries, and dental work. Vision care includes eye exams and free prescription glasses. Volunteers are also offering physical therapy, massages, clothing, and haircuts.
Pathway to Health is a nonprofit humanitarian service of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This is the ninth mega clinic they have operated since 2014, with many of the volunteers coming from around the country
to be the hands and feet of Jesus in St. Louis.
Life-changing moments and new friendships
Diane Thurber, president of Christian Record Services for the Blind, shared several emotional encounters from the first day of service. One woman had brought her boyfriend and his friend who had never received eye care. One was 34 years old, the other 50.
“They had never had an eye exam in their lives,” Thurber said. “They were so thrilled. They picked out their frames, and they’ll be contacted by a local church when their glasses are ready.”
Christian Record also provided large-print Bibles and other materials for those with low vision. “We had a man come up whose face lit up when he saw the large-print Bible,” Thurber said. “We’re mailing it to him next week. Everything we provide is completely free.”
Meeting needs, building relationships
Pastor Darren Robinson, who serves the St. Louis
West County and Southside Seventh-day Adventist churches, shared how powerful it was to speak with attendees in line. “Some people told me they’ve waited years to be seen for some of the things they’re here for,” Robinson said.
“And now, to receive that care completely free—it’s a huge blessing. You can see the joy on their faces.”
He emphasized how this outreach is not just about short-term help but about long-term relationships. “When we show up and meet people where they are, with compassion and care, they open up,” he said. “That gives me hope that the relationship continues even after this week ends.”
Both of Robinson’s churches will serve as Health Information Centers (HICs) after the event. Each location will offer free, multi-week community classes. “At one church, we’ll host a cooking class,” he said. “At the other, we’ll offer a wellness class. It’s a chance to stay connected and walk with people on a journey toward better health and, hopefully, toward Jesus.”
A flyer, a choice, a blessing
For many, the opportunity to receive care came just in time.
“One man said someone outside handed him a flyer, and he just decided not to go to work that day,” said a volunteer. He came straight in and got the services he needed.” Others told similar stories, choosing to miss a day’s pay in order to be seen by a doctor or dentist— something they hadn’t been able to do in years.
Dan McGee, a member of the St. Louis Central Seventhday Adventist Church, is preparing to teach follow-up health classes after the clinic ends. “My wife and I are going to lead programs on natural cooking, depression and anxiety recovery, and diabetes education,” he said. McGee explained that the goal of these classes is not only to improve physical health but also to guide people toward spiritual healing.
“We want to teach people how to live healthy lives and have minds full of love from God,” he said. “This is how people can overcome depression and even beat diabetes. But most of all, we want to help them come to know Jesus.”
As local volunteers continue to serve, many believe the impact of Pathway to Health will be felt long after the clinic has ended.
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
Volunteers Celebrate Miracles and Ministry at Pathway to Health Thanksgiving Service in St. Louis
Pathway to Health organizers, volunteers and supporters gathered at the Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church in St. Louis to thank God for the many miracles witnessed during the recent Pathway to Health mega clinic. The church was filled with joy and gratitude as testimonies poured in from those impacted by the event and those who had served.
Hosted by Pastor Brinton McKenzie and the Berean church family, the service featured a rich blend of music, testimonies and video presentations from the clinic. Ouachita Hills Academy students offered musical selections that touched hearts, while leaders and volunteers shared how lives were changed—both physically and spiritually.
Craig Carr, ministerial and evangelism director for the Mid-America Union Conference, welcomed attendees and thanked them for their service. “We have hundreds of people who signed up—not just for health services—but saying, ‘I want Bible studies,’” Carr said. “That’s not an exaggeration. The real work begins now.” Carr acknowledged the strong cooperation between the Central States Conference and the Iowa-Missouri Conference, as well as support from the Lake Union’s Illinois Conference. “All our different churches united in the mission of reaching this city,” he said.
Ivan Golubic, president of Pathway to Health, and Kathy Proffitt, chair of the board, offered thanks to
major partners and churches who helped organize the event. “We had over 2,000 volunteers registered,” said Golubic. “Over 100 of them came from overseas—places like Australia, Fiji, India, and Papua New Guinea.”
Kathy Proffitt highlighted that the first call for Pathway to come to St. Louis came from MidAmerica Union president Gary Thurber nearly two years ago. “This wouldn’t have happened without God—and without the collaboration of church leaders and volunteers,” she stated.
Pastors from local churches across St. Louis stood to thank their members and share brief, heartfelt stories of lives changed. Pastor Polo Felix from the Spanish-speaking churches reported that they counseled over 200 families during the week. Pastor Louis-Jeune Evenson from Agape Church met a man in a wheelchair who told him, with tears in his eyes, that he’d never been treated with such dignity at a church event. Several volunteers shared personal experiences as well.
Pastor Mark Tagaloa from the St. Louis Central Church told the humorous but powerful story of a police officer who, after hearing about the clinic’s services and the upcoming seminars, decided not to issue a parking ticket. “I can’t write a ticket for God’s church,” the officer said, tearing up the citation.
Elder Lewis from Tabernacle of Praise praised the dedication of volunteers, especially Kyle Allen from the Pathway to Health leadership team, who was out in the streets with others handing out flyers and inviting people to the clinic. “He was already there before I arrived,” Lewis said. “That’s leadership.”
Another man with serious dental pain—two broken wisdom teeth—also came for care. “He got his teeth taken care of and eyeglasses, and before he left, he said he wants Bible studies and to be baptized in a Seventhday Adventist church,” said Pastor Trevor Barnes of Northside Church.
In all, organizers reported over 650 people officially signed up for follow-up Bible studies, prayer or seminars— and that number may be over 1,000 once all paper sign-ups are added. Volunteers and leaders alike recognized that the true mission of Pathway to Health is only beginning, with evangelistic series scheduled to follow this summer at Northside Church and Central Church.
The event closed with expressions of thanks to city officials, the police department, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and media teams who helped share the story of what God did through the clinic.
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
Pastor Mark Tagaloa from the St. Louis Central Church told a humorous but powerful story.
Hugh Davis
MID-AMERICA UNION
Pathfinders Shine at National Bible Experience, Reflecting Deep Faith and Community Support
Pathfinders from across North America gathered in Battle Creek, Michigan, on April 26 for the North American Division-level Pathfinder Bible Experience. The event took place at Kellogg Arena and brought together 191 teams who had spent months studying and memorizing the books of Romans and 1 Corinthians. The goal? Not just to win—but to grow spiritually and build a lasting relationship with Jesus.
PBE is more than a Bible quiz. It’s the official Bible study program of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. While many affectionately call it “Bible Bowl,” the experience goes far beyond memorization. Pathfinders learn to reflect on what the Bible says and how to apply its teachings at home, school and church.
From local testing to the final division-level event, young participants moved through area, conference, union and division rounds. Despite busy school schedules and other personal responsibilities, they stayed committed to diving into
God’s Word. Youth directors, area coordinators, and Pathfinder directors across the Mid-America Union proudly supported them every step of the way.
All 17 teams that placed first at the Mid-America Union level made it to the national stage. Out of those, 16 received a first-place ranking, and one team earned a strong second-place ranking—an outstanding showing that reflects not only the dedication of the Pathfinders but also the commitment of their churches and families.
“Participating in PBE is one of the most rewarding ministries I’ve had the privilege to be part of,” said Elder Tyrone Douglas, church ministries/ youth and young adult director for the Mid-America Union. “I’m confident it will leave a lasting impact on the lives of our youth.”
Pastor Sean Lee from the Southview Seventhday Adventist Church in Minnesota said his teams’ success was the result of full church involvement. “We did several sermon series on those books,” he said.
For some, the experience brought back powerful memories. Jessie Rosado from Chapel Oaks in Kansas reflected on how PBE changed her life. “If I’m in the church today, it is because of the Bible Experience,” she said. “Now I get to coach my daughters and their team. It’s a blessing to pass this on to the next generation.”
The 2025 season may be over, but the journey continues. The study book for next year’s PBE will be Isaiah chapters 1–33. The division-level event is scheduled to take place in Florida in 2026.
Here are the 2025 teams and their placement:
Dakota
• Church: Cleveland; Club: Cleveland Prairie Trails; Team: The SIRS –1st Place
Iowa-Missouri
• Church: College Park; Club: College Park Tigers; Team: Roaring 4 Christ –1st Place
• Church: Aurora Hispanic; Club: Las Aguilas; Team: Las Aguilas – 1st Place
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
Versacare Grant Program Now Open Year-Round
The Versafund K-12 grant program is now open year-round to North American Division and Inter American Division primary, middle and secondary schools. Applications received January 1 through June 30 are eligible for funding in September, and applications received July 1 through December 31 are eligible for funding in March.
Project Exclusions
• Capital improvements, including new construction and renovations (does not apply to equipment for instructional use)
• School or church-sponsored mission trips
• Debt reduction
• Payroll and salaries
• Purchase of perishables and consumables
• Scholarships
Since launching the K-12 grant program in 2016, Versacare Foundation has awarded 926 grants to NAD and IAD schools totaling $4,383,000
Eligibility
• Applicant must be a Seventh-day Adventist conference (or congregation) sponsored K-10, K-12, or primary, middle or high school.
• Funding is limited to the geographic regions of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists and the Inter-American Division of Seventh-day Adventists.
• Schools are eligible for funding once every three years.
• Schools with three classrooms or less are eligible for up to $5,000. Schools with four or more classrooms are eligible for up to $10,000.
• STEM and STEAM requests require a board approved technology plan submitted with the application. All other requests require a board signed letter of approval.
• Sub-granting or regranting of Versacare Foundation funds
• Tablets, Chromebooks, laptops, computers and related hardware or software for non classroom use (e.g., for admin office; use at home by teachers; etc.)
To apply for a grant, please visit versacare.org; for more information about the K-12 grant program contact Lisa Corrales at office@versacare.org
Versacare Foundation, 25745 Barton Rd, Suite 515, Loma Linda, CA 92354
951.343.5800 versacare.org
Versacare Foundation is an independent private foundation which funds grants for programs and projects that are consistent with its mission and with the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. A self-funded lay organization, it is comprised of both lay Adventists and present and former Adventist Church employees.
Update From Navajo Nation Ministries
Dear Friends,
We are thrilled to share some exciting updates about Dine’ Adventist Radio and our mission to reach the hearts of the people in the Navajo Nation for Jesus.
NEW Streaming Service
Launched
We have launched a new streaming service that includes a desktop player as well as iOS and Android apps. We invite you to take a listen and experience the programming: radio.
securenetsystems.net/ cirruspremier/DAR
PROGRESS at Yale Point Station
Recently, DAR program director, Kenneth Kirtley, and I spent a full day with the engineering team installing radio equipment for our Yale Point Station.(KDHP 91.9 FM) which will cover the central part of the Navajo Nation reservation. We’re very close to being fully operational.
GROWING Interest in Bible Studies
In the last several months, we’ve received requests from 28 people for the Native New Day Bible Studies, generated from a 30-minute program, airing, once a week. Imagine the impact we can have when we start broadcasting 168 HOURS a week! Pray for the
contacts we expect to make once we are fully on the air!
YOUR Support Matters
Thanks for your prayers and support! Together, we are making a difference. God bless.
Steve Pester, Network manager of Dine’ Adventist Radio 423.779.7699
CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE
In the Wake of Tragedy, Hope Still Rises
St. Louis churches reflect and respond
Just one week before a deadly tornado tore through St. Louis on May 17, leaving at least five people dead and many more displaced, members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church gathered to celebrate God’s blessings at a thanksgiving and testimony service (see p. 14). The event, hosted at Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church, praised the impact of the Pathway to Health mega clinic that had just served thousands of residents with free medical, dental and vision care.
Now, in light of this heartbreaking disaster, church leaders are pivoting their focus.
“Our union and local conference ACS leaders have been notified and will participate in an operational coordination call to align our response plans,” said W. Derrick Lea, North American Division Adventist Community Services director. “We are praying for those impacted and those providing assistance.”
“The Mid-America Union stands ready to support and provide resources for disaster relief in the St. Louis community,” said Elder Tyrone Douglas, director of church ministries and Adventist Community Services for the Mid-America Union.
Looking ahead with compassion and readiness
As disaster response efforts now take precedence, Adventist leaders are calling members to prayer and action.
“We are deeply moved by the events of the past week,” said ACS leaders. “While we celebrate what God did through Pathway to Health, we are now asking Him to guide us as we respond to this new crisis.”
The St. Louis-area Adventist churches remain committed to serving their city—whether in a clinic, a church pew, or a storm-ravaged neighborhood.
A pastor’s view from the ground
Pastor Trevor Barnes, who leads the Northside
Seventh-day Adventist Church, has been on the frontlines—helping with Pathway to Health, and now aiding ACS’s relief efforts.
In a live update, Barnes shared both his gratitude and concern.
“My daughter’s eighthgrade graduation was on Thursday at Central Seventhday Adventist Church,” he said. “That same building was damaged Friday—the roof torn, windows shattered. I just praise God the tornado didn’t hit the day before while we were inside.”
The tornado’s path began in Forest Park—St. Louis’ version of Central Park—and swept through the city, uprooting trees, leveling brick homes, and knocking down power lines. “North City is decimated,” said Barnes. “Historic brick buildings are flattened. Some neighborhoods may never look the same again.”
While his church, Northside, remained structurally intact, another Adventist church—Berean— lost power. “We’re thankful the building wasn’t damaged,” said Barnes, “but like many
others, it’s in the dark and unable to function fully.”
Despite the devastation, Barnes praised the resilience of St. Louis residents. “The Spirit of St. Louis is real. People are out with food trucks, water, clearing debris. Local churches and restaurants have stepped up.”
A call for prayer—and action
As St. Louis faces a long recovery, Adventist churches are leaning into their mission of compassionate service. ACS is working closely withcommunity partners, and those wishing to help can donate directly to Adventist Community Services at www. communityservices.org
“We believe the church should be a light in dark places,” Barnes said. “And right now, some neighborhoods are literally in the dark. So we’re praying. We’re organizing. We’re not giving up. Keep St. Louis lifted in prayer,” he added. “We need it.”
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
Pastor Trevor Barnes
Trevor Barnes pastors the Northside Seventhday Adventist Church.
Elder Roger Bernard Announces Transition After Over a Decade of Leadership at Central States Conference
After more than a decade of faithful service, Elder Roger A. Bernard , president of the Central States Conference, has announced he will not seek reelection at the upcoming Constituency Session scheduled for Aug. 3, 2025.
In a statement to the conference executive committee, Bernard shared, “It has been the privilege of my life to serve as your president and to lead this great organization through both challenges and triumphs.” His leadership tenure has
REGULAR SIXTH QUADRENNIAL AND TWENTYSEVENTH SESSION OF THE CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS
Notice is hereby given that the Regular Session of the Central States Conference of Seventh-day Adventist is called to convene at the Central States Conference G. Alexander Bryant Youth Center, August 3, 2025 at 9:00am.
The purpose of the meeting is to elect the Executive Committee members, Constitution and Bylaws Committee, Officers, Departmental Directors, review recommended constitutional changes and for the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the session. Delegates for this session will be appointed one for each church and one additional delegate for each twenty-five (25) members or major fraction thereof.
-Roger A. Bernard Jr., President
-Cryston E. Josiah, Vice-President for Administration
been marked by significant achievements, steady guidance through major challenges, and a deep commitment to advancing the mission of the church.
Following the conclusion of his service at the Constituency Session, Bernard will transition to a new role as director of the Office of Regional Conference Ministries, based at the Regional Conference headquarters in Huntsville, Alabama. He is set to begin this new assignment on Jan. 1, 2026.
Reflecting on his time leading the Central States Conference, Bernard noted, “I will step into this new role with the experiences and lessons learned here in Central States close to my heart, recognizing that—in the words of
Dorothy—‘there’s no place like home.’”
The Central States Conference extends heartfelt gratitude to President Bernard for his visionary leadership, steadfast service, and unwavering dedication to God’s work.
“Elder Bernard is loved not only by his constituency, but he is loved by the whole Mid-America Union. His steady, insightful, diligent and humble leadership has made him a blessing to so many of us,” said MAUC president Gary Thurber “We wish him only the best as he begins his new work with the Office of Regional Ministries.”
Trevor Barnes Jr., is communication director for the Central States Conference.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MEMBERS OF THE CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE ASSOCIATION OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS
Notice is hereby given that the Regular Membership Meeting of the Central States Conference Association of the Seventh-day Adventists, a non-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Kansas, will meet in connection with the Regular Quadrennial Session of the Central States Conference of Seventh-day Adventist at the G. Alexander Bryant Youth Center, August 3, 2025 at 9:00am.
The purpose of the call is to elect a Board of Trustees and to transact such other business as may properly come before the delegates. All delegates to the conference session are delegates of the Association.
-Roger A. Bernard Jr., President
-Cryston E. Josiah, Vice-President for Administration
Courtesy
Central States Conference
Hurley Church to Celebrate 150 Years of Faithful Witness
The roots of the Hurley Seventh-day Adventist Church stretch back to 1871, when N.P. Nelson settled near Swan Lake in Turner County, South Dakota. Inspired by his study of the Bible and Adventist literature, he shared his newfound faith with neighbors, including the O.A. Frederickson family.
By 1874, Elder J.F. Hanson of Iowa accepted a call to minister on the Dakota Plains, holding meetings—many of them in Nelson’s sod house. On Nov. 8, 1874, the Nelsons and Fredericksons were baptized, marking the beginning of organized Adventist membership in the region.
The church was formally organized on Sept. 11, 1875, in the Frederickson’s home. Officers were elected, and the small group raised $22 to support ministry efforts. The Lord blessed their dedication, and by May 1876, membership had grown from seven to 32. A year later, plans were made to construct a proper
church building.
With land donated by Christen Jensen Ulsted and construction led by Christian Jensen Aalborg for one dollar per day, the first church building was completed in spring 1878 for $250. This 20-by-30-foot structure served the growing congregation faithfully. In 1879, Adventist pioneers Elder James and Ellen White visited the small prairie church.
Through harsh winters, prairie fires, and crop failures, the faithful pressed on. By 1884, the congregation had outgrown the original building. An addition was constructed, aisles carpeted, and in 1889, an organ was purchased for $54 to enrich worship.
During the winter of 19411942, the original church was moved from the prairie to the town of Hurley, placed on land donated by Claude Sherard. As time passed, a new structure was needed.
Construction finished in 1971, and the first service in
the new building was held that December, with a dedication following in July 1974.
Many of the early pioneers now rest in Evergreen Cemetery, donated by John Lewis Flyger. Yet their legacy lives on through the continued ministry of the Hurley Seventh-day Adventist Church.
You’re invited to celebrate
150 years of gospel ministry with the Hurley Church, Sept. 12–14, 2025. Join us in remembering the faithful pioneers and recommitting to the mission they began. For more event details, watch the church’s Facebook: @ hurleyadventistchurch.
Information provided by the Hurley Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Equipped for Mission
Men gather in Medora for 30th annual retreat
Set against the rugged backdrop of the Badlands, the Dakota Conference hosted its 30th Annual Men’s Retreat last March at the Rough Riders Hotel in Medora, North Dakota. With the theme Locked and Loaded: Being Minutemen for Jesus, the weekend offered men a space to grow spiritually, connect with one another, and be challenged to live with courage and conviction in today’s world.
A group of nearly 70 men from across North and South Dakota gathered to hear keynote speaker Dr. Sergo Namoradze. Raised an atheist in Soviet Georgia, Namoradze’s journey to faith began when he encountered a Bible during a government-sponsored visit to the United States. That moment of curiosity sparked a life-changing transformation. Today Namoradze serves with Adventist Frontier Missions, coaching missionaries to share the gospel with cultural sensitivity and compassion. His messages throughout the
weekend testified to the power of God’s Word to penetrate even the most unlikely hearts. Dakota Conference president Elder Vernon Herholdt also shared his testimony. A former child protection and SWAT officer in South Africa, Herholdt described his search for something more than the violence and trauma he encountered on the job. His story of redemption through Jesus Christ offered attendees a vivid picture of how God reshapes lives from the inside out.
Returning speaker Ed Dickerson, known across the Mid-America Union for his thoughtful teaching and soft-spoken wisdom, led sessions on understanding Scripture in its historical and cultural context. His insights helped attendees connect more deeply with the biblical narrative and discover God’s heart behind the commands.
Attendee Brooks Payne encouraged fellow participants to remain spiritually alert in a world that often resists faith.
“Always be ready to give a reason for the hope within you,” he reminded, echoing the call to live as faithful witnesses in everyday life.
Behind the scenes, Dakota Conference men’s ministries coordinator Randy Rubbert played a vital role in organizing the event. A member of the Grand Forks Church in North Dakota, Rubbert works in general aviation and brings both a practical mindset and a heart for ministry to his role. He seeks to make each retreat inspiring, beneficial and welcoming to men of all ages and spiritual experience. His commitment helps make the annual retreat a consistent highlight for men across the conference.
Beyond the worship and workshops, men enjoyed warm hospitality provided by the Medora Foundation, whose team catered the weekend with kindness and professionalism.
For three decades, this retreat has equipped men to be stronger leaders in their homes, churches and communities. This year was no different. As the weekend ended, men left not just encouraged—but ready. Ready to serve, to lead, and to stand as “minutemen for Jesus” wherever God calls them next.
Information provided by Randy Rubbert, Dakota Conference men’s ministries coordinator.
Courtesy Men’s Ministries Department
Dan Lewis
Propelling Faith Forward: Mentoring Young Adults Through Active Learning
For many youth in the Adventist Church, there is a lack of connection to their faith. Young adults often struggle to connect with their beliefs in meaningful and relevant ways. Additionally, there is a lack of mentorship opportunities. Young adults often lack guidance and mentorship from experienced leaders willing to provide the support and wisdom needed to navigate their faith journey.
As part of ongoing work to increase cooperation and collaboration between different generations and different churches, the Waterloo and Hawkeye churches in Iowa collaborated on a community giveaway event.
February 8 marked the day of the outreach in Hawkeye with the Pathfinders. The youth who handed out bags first met at the Hawkeye Church, then visited the Bonjour family and joined the rest of the Hawkeye church members for supper. In total, 18 youth participated, accompanied by five additional adults from the Pathfinder and Adventurer groups.
After Sabbath services and a potluck at the Waterloo Church, the youth, family members, and group leaders drove to Hawkeye. Both Waterloo and Hawkeye groups gathered at the Hawkeye Church to review the map and organize into smaller teams to pass out the bags. Dein and Cheyenne Gosse of the Hawkeye Church divided the teams, with head elder Richard Bonjour and retired pastor Garry Birth supervising the distribution.
As the youth walked through the town, handing out over 200 Valentine’s Day baggies filled with reminders of Jesus’ love, several Pathfinders took the time to chat with community members. To add to the beauty of the moment, a gentle flurry of snowflakes began to fall.
When everyone returned to the Bonjour family’s house, the women of Hawkeye had a warm supper ready for the group. The evening continued with vespers led by Pastor Meshach Faeteetee, who also offered a prayer before the meal of haystacks. Following supper, the Pathfinders worked on earning their Rocks and Minerals honor—a lesson Kathleen Bonjour was asked to teach, as the Bonjour family owns an extensive rock collection at their house. During the presentation, Eileen
Birth contributed as a subject matter expert on identifying rocks and minerals.
The Waterloo Pathfinder and Adventurer youth brought the energy, much like propellers on an airplane, generating forward motion and carrying the message of Jesus’ love. Meanwhile, the experienced Hawkeye leaders provided guidance, much like flaps on an airplane, helping channel the youth’s enthusiasm into focused learning and growth. The evening was a multi-sensory experience, nurturing both minds and hearts through hands-on activities and meaningful mentorship. Adding to the excitement, Eileen went through some of the family’s rock collection, allowing each youth to take home several rocks for their personal collections—a tangible reminder of the experience.
Outcomes of this collaborative event include:
• Stronger Mentorship Relationships: The activities supported growing relationships between young adults and mentors.
• Growth in Leadership Skills: As young adults engaged in activities and mentorship, they practiced their leadership skills, confidence and ability to serve others.
• Expanded Community: Through multi-generational and multi-church collaborative activities, young adults cultivated friendships and a sense of belonging within their own church community and the sisterhood of Adventist churches.
At the end of the enriching evening, everyone returned home safely through the snowstorm. We deeply appreciate the effort it took for the Hawkeye leaders to offer such a high-quality learning opportunity. Thank you for hosting such a wonderful experience!
Shoshannah Guerrero is the Waterloo, Iowa, Adventurer club leader.
Photos: Shoshannah Guerrero
Gladstone Church Holds Deacon Ordination
Kalkidan Alemayehu, Samuel Alemayehu, Troy Poff and Daniel Tafesse were ordained as deacons during a worship service last April at the Gladstone Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Pastor Philip Dangal noted that the church did not call them, but only recognized the call of God, and thanked the young men for saying “Yes” to the Holy Spirit and this service in God’s house. He later shared a message from Acts 6 and 7 on the unshakable faith of Stephen, one of the first deacons chosen by the early church and exhorted the ordinands as well as the congregation to be people of faith, wisdom, power, grace and filled with the Holy Spirit. In addition to serving as deacons, all four serve on the church grounds crew. Daniel Tafesse is also a member of the audio/visual team, a children’s Sabbath school substitute teacher, and assistant youth leader. Troy Poff recently returned from a year of teaching at an Adventist school in India.
New Quilts in Memory of Dorothy Israel
For years, the Kimberling City Church in Missouri has been known for all the quilts they made for “It’s My Very Own.” There were always quilts, with Bags of Love, hanging on the walls in their fellowship hall. The quilts were admired by visitors and members alike, and were greatly missed by everyone, including Dorothy Israel, when they were taken down. In memory of Dorothy, who was very involved in the IMVO program and made many quilts, the church now has some quilts on display, lovingly made by Lyle Brooks, Kimberling City church member, and a very involved member of the IMVO program.
Carolyn Sowards is communication leader for the Kimberling City Church in Missouri.
Children at Kimberling City Learn to Serve One Another
Last March Kimberling City pastor Robert LaCelle and his wife, Esther (one of the Sabbath school teachers), held a mini communion service for the children during their Sabbath school. The pastor read Bible scriptures to them and they were served grape juice and unleavened bread. In addition, they had several basins with water and towels for the children to serve each other. Nine-year-old Alice Tun is pictured here serving her baby sister, Hazel Tun
Carolyn Sowards is communication leader for the Kimberling City Church in Missouri.
Alyce Kelsey is a member of the Gladstone Church in Missouri.
Carolyn Sowards
Maranatha Volunteers Build El Dorado Church Addition
In April, 23 volunteers left their homes behind to lift up the El Dorado Seventhday Adventist Church–literally. The group was organized by Maranatha Volunteers International, a supporting ministry of the Adventist Church, to build an expansion for the Kansas congregation. Volunteers were drawn by the simple desire to serve others. And while raising the walls of El Dorado’s
addition, they demonstrated the increased strength of humanity when we stand beside each other.
“Every single day I thanked all the volunteers over and over for their dedication and hard work,” said El Dorado pastor Francois Erasmus. “They can perhaps not fully grasp the impact they have made in El Dorado and how fully appreciated they are by everyone.”
El Dorado’s new space includes a fellowship hall, kitchen and children’s classrooms–all things their original structure lacked. And the congregation has big plans for their expansion. “At a minimum, it will provide us a place to have fellowship meals together,” explained Erasmus. “The plan also is for us to have bridging events in the addition. We’re already looking at having some cooking classes there.”
As Erasmus worked with volunteers on the project, he found himself inspired by their sacrifice. “At least in one of the cases, someone took vacation. So instead of resting or going away, he took his vacation to help us,” recalled Erasmus. “This is what the church is supposed to be,” he said. “It was very uplifting. It touched my heart deeply.”
Toward the end of the project, volunteers rested briefly from their work to write
messages of dedication on the frame they constructed. “It was an opportunity for people to write a message that is meaningful to them–a Bible promise that is meaningful to them,” explained Erasmus. Although the notes will soon be hidden by insulation and drywall, the El Dorado Church building stands as a visible reminder of what is possible when we lift each other up.
Maranatha Volunteers International mobilizes volunteers to build churches, schools, water wells, and other urgently needed structures around the world, including North America. Since 1969, Maranatha has constructed more than 14,000 structures and more than 3,000 water wells in nearly 90 countries.
Sidney Needles is a communication specialist for Maranatha Volunteers International.
Photos: Ed Jensen
KANSAS-NEBRASKA CONFERENCE
Hispanic Women’s Retreat Filled With Spirit-led Miracles
Afterseveral years of hosting our Hispanic Women’s Retreat in Junction City, Kansas, circumstances led us to search for a new location. We needed something geographically central, within our budget, and large enough to host our growing group of women. But as we toured various venues, none felt like the right fit.
Then, just one month before the event, we visited a hotel and conference center in Kearney, Nebraska. The space seemed perfect—but the costs were well beyond our reach. That night, we prayed. The very next day, the hotel contacted us with unexpected news: they would waive the conference room fees and drop the 22 percent
Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. Despite her full schedule, she agreed to step in and minister to our young women.
service charge on meals. Even more remarkable, the exact weekend we needed—during a typically busy season—was still available. We knew God was leading. As the retreat approached, we faced additional changes. Our teen speaker canceled due to a family emergency. We reached out to Ilka Ruiz, wife of Pastor Smerdis Fuentes from Piedmont Park
Then, just days before the retreat, our main speaker notified us that she could not attend due to her husband’s hospitalization. We contacted to Dr. Yami Bazan, president of Union Adventist University, and our speaker for next year. She graciously accepted the call on short notice.
Despite the challenges, more than 200 women gathered for a powerful weekend together. Over 20 of them were guests not connected to our churches. The sessions, worship and fellowship created a deeply moving atmosphere. Dr. Bazan’s messages focused on the Samaritan woman, encouraging us to
lay our burdens down and receive the living water only Christ can give.
On Saturday night, Las Bodas del Cordero (The Wedding of the Lamb) brought the retreat to a beautiful close. Dressed in white, women participated in a symbolic ceremony that reminded us of the joy of heaven and our identity as beloved daughters of God. Tears were shed, prayers were lifted, and lives were recommitted to Jesus.
This year’s retreat reminded us that even when plans shift, God does not. He provides, prepares and works through every detail—inviting us to trust Him every step of the way.
Miriam Dovald is women’s ministries director for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.
Photos: Courtesy Kansas-Nebraska Conference
A Rubber-Meets-the-Road Minister
Interview by Jim Moon
Last April Ezra Kenyanya joined me for an online conversation about workplace ministry. May his story inspire you to consider how Jesus is working through your values and backstory to bless your family, friends, co-workers and community.
Jim: Ezra, we met through our work for the Minnesota Conference. Where else are you ministering?
Ezra: In addition to serving part-time as an associate and youth pastor at Kenyan Community Church, I work full-time for the Jeremiah Program. We are a non-profit organization who helps single mothers move from poverty to prosperity. I also run initiatives like Vuna International, and Dira which supports youth and young adults in finding their purpose through financial literacy, career and academic excellence, and value-based coaching.
Wow. This is a lot. But during our visit at The Jeremiah Program’s St. Paul facility, I began to see a through line in your ministry roles. What has
shaped you to be someone who can minister across these separate but related spheres of influence?
During my undergraduate experience I chose to major in biology because a lot of people in my circles experienced some type of health failure. But medicine wasn’t who I am. However, I had a deep desire to meet people’s needs in a practical way, and during my graduate studies I discovered a program at Andrews University in Community and International Development. This degree became the perfect match for my passion to meet needs.
You’re a bit of a rubbermeets-the-road person. Yes. I like theory. But if it doesn’t meet the road, it doesn’t interest me.
Was there a formative experience that allowed you to embrace practical ministry?
Growing up in a Christian home, love was a verb… It was all about action. If someone was sick, my parents were there. If someone needed a place to stay, Mom and Dad
made a way. I remember our family hosting another family of 11 in our four bedroom home. It was a subconscious influence.
At 17 I transitioned from Kenya to the United States, leaving what I knew to enter the unknown. When I arrived at college in New Hampshire I didn’t know anyone. It is amazing to remember the people who showed kindness. One family took me in as their son, hosted me for four years, fed me, and gave me a car to drive. These experiences shaped my values, and I would eventually discover a desire to help people navigate the challenges I had faced in coming to a new culture. After undergrad, I still didn’t know what I wanted to do. So I joined a three-month mission trip to five different countries. I saw people with less than me being happy and fulfilled. This led to a mind shift about meaning and purpose.
At the same time, there were ways I felt lost. Being a teenager and moving to a new culture, I struggled with identity.
Your experience makes me think of third culture kids–people who immigrate to a new country in their youth, and as time passes they begin to feel like they don’t belong to their old world, but they don’t fully belong to their new world either… and it all happens in the same lifetime. There were moments of finding myself which shaped me, and I wanted to ensure that anyone going through a
similar experience received support.
How can values-based coaching help our young people to live a more practical life as Tent Makers? Decision-making is often based on values. My values are God, family, autonomy, creativity and independence. They guide my life choices. Tent-making ministry allows me to work part-time in ministry while engaging in practical, value-driven work.
Your observations remind me of Timothy Snyder’s book On Freedom where he says freedom is forged as we choose between values. Exactly. Knowing your values gives you freedom.
Note: To learn more about the various entities Ezra supports as a Tent Maker, visit www.jeremiahprogram. org, www.vunainternational. org, www.diraprogram.org, or kenyancommunitymn. adventistchurch.org
Jim Moon is the volunteer coordinator for Minnesota Conference’s Tent Maker initiative.
To hear our entire Intersect Podcast conversation visit https://bit.ly/ezra_ ken or scan the QR Code.
To Bless and be Blessed
Red Dirt
A trip, going to bless... Knowing we’d be blessed
Red dirt...It stains your hands a little more, leaving an impression
However its imprint be tiny in comparison
A blazing land...though it was the faces bringing the most warmth
Lush greenery...but their kindness gave off greater beauty
A people who have lesswe would think...who should have more worries
Be more anxious, stressed... but aren’t
A joy—it envelopes them... revealing our lack
Our need
In the land where there isn’t plenty...we find out that we seem to have all
When really it’s nothing at all
We are found wanting...not material things
Something of eternal value...costly for One
Yet, free to us
Their love...His love
It left an impression...Not on my hands
But on my heart
Whenthe Maplewood mission trip was first announced a lot of us wanted to go, and at the time we had no idea how much we could be blessed while we blessed others.
Leading up to the trip, I had to learn how to fundraise with letters. I really prayed about those receiving the letters because I hoped God would soften their hearts to give. Later, it was beautiful to hear that not a single person who signed up to go had missed the fundraising goal. God was faithful, as always.
After lots of traveling—from Minnesota to Dallas to Brazil and lastly to Paraguay—we made it to the Adventist school where we would be staying. We were welcomed like family members. The academy students were like brothers and sisters that we simply hadn’t met before. The differences in our lives and cultures became the glue that brought us together. Trying their foods left our taste buds dancing. And learning their songs brought us childlike joy. While working, God showed us the joy of service.
One group helped dig holes for a future build, another cleared out trees to extend a chicken coop, and a different group worked on the crops that the school is growing in their agriculture area. We also presented a children’s program and four groups led out in evening evangelistic meetings at local churches.
The most beautiful time for me was during the evening of our second day of outreach. We accidentally went to the wrong church. This was a blessing in disguise and after speaking with Pastor Pete, we were told to simply stay. A storm had just passed through the area, leaving this church without power. Since the church had no power, we thought, “Why worship inside when we can go outside on such a beautiful evening?”
So, we moved everyone to the porch and conducted the service on the lawn. We sang songs in all three of their languages, Spanish, Portuguese and Gurani. Next, we taught them the same songs in English, and that was all it took to feel like family. With the moonlight shining down on us, we spoke about how
glorious heaven will be. That night our minds were brought to the “new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13, ASV).
The time to go home came too fast for our liking. But we found one more way to help. All those who were able collected our extra money to donate to the school. This small sacrifice for us was an enormous blessing to them. God spoke to us in so many ways on that trip. Through the kindness of the people, He showed me that “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:55).
This was all possible because of those who donated. And all who went are extremely grateful for every person who donated to this trip. Thank you for investing in the lives of young people!
Read the full story at outlookmag.org/ to-bless-and-be-blessed
Iosif Dubreuze is a junior at Maplewood Academy and loves doing mission and outreach work.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE
Vista Ridge Academy Celebrates 125 years of Adventist Education
Adventist education began in the mid to late 19th century, with only a handful of institutions boasting existence for over 100 years. The Rocky Mountain Conference is home to one such institution, Vista Ridge Academy, who celebrated its 125-year anniversary last April.
Established in 1899 as the Boulder Junior Academy in Boulder, Colorado, the school was originally founded by a group of Seventh-day Adventist families who believed in the importance of educating children in a setting that integrated strong academics with spiritual values.
A small church school was operated two years prior to this by Florence Cornell, a sister of Clara Euler, who was the first teacher. George W. Colcord, a renowned Adventist pastor, evangelist, conference president and educator, was also a teacher at this small school from 1898-1899.
Over the decades, the school has reached several key milestones: expanding from a one-room schoolhouse to a Junior Academy; relocating in 2024 to a modern campus in Erie, Colorado, to better serve a growing student population; and introducing innovative programs in technology, music and spiritual development. The school now serves 90 students from preschool age to eighth grade.
Through it all, Vista Ridge Academy has remained grounded in its mission to
The 4-8 grade class performed an original musical showcasing the origin story of the school.
develop the whole child— spiritually, academically, socially and physically. “This milestone is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the generations of families, educators, and students who have built this legacy together,” said Marsha Bartulec, VRA principal.
The 125-year anniversary celebration began at the VRA campus with an Exhibition of Learning showcasing student works including writing projects, state studies, and space and robotics activities.
A dinner and silent auction followed to help the school reach its $125,000 fundraising campaign goal to support campus upgrades and student scholarships.
Around 150 people attended the evening’s events, including pastors of VRA’s supporting constituent churches: Geoff Patterson, Boulder Church lead pastor; Mollie Dupper, Boulder Church associate pastor; and Herbert Hernandez, Chapel Haven Adventist Church lead pastor. Sandy
Hodgson, RMC education assistant director and former BJA teacher and VRA teacher and principal, also came to support the celebration.
The evening closed with an original musical titled “1899: Origin Story” written and arranged by Pamela Pedigo, VRA music teacher. Students in grades 4-8 preformed in and crewed the production that covered the challenges and blessings faced by the founders of the academy.
“The play was so much fun. I liked the scene ‘Shine.’
I love the energy of it,” said Savannah Ibarra, VRA eighth grader and lead cast member. “We started practicing for the play before Christmas, but it wasn’t until a couple of months ago that we started meeting with the other grades, but it still worked out great.”
“It’s so fun to see the kids performing together and the amazing work that Mrs. Pedigo did to put the program together. It was clever and well done,” remarked Patterson. “I didn’t know of
any details of the school’s history, but the program did take me there in an emotional way. The problems are still the same along with the challenges and the faith that went into the initiation of the school.” The anniversary celebrations also included a “walking museum” of the school’s historical artifacts. “For 125 years, Vista Ridge Academy has exemplified the power of faith in action. We honor every hand and heart that has built, sustained and advanced this sacred mission of Adventist education,” commented Diane Harris, RMC education director. “The story of Vista Ridge Academy is not written in buildings or programs, but in the hearts and lives changed by those who dared to believe that Christian education could light the world,” she continued. “To every supporter—past, present and future—your investment has been a seed sown for generations.”
RMCNews with Marsha Bartulec, Vista Ridge Academy principal
ROCKY
Aurora First Impacts Community Through Prayer
The Aurora First Seventhday Adventist Church in Aurora, Colorado, provided their second drive-thru prayer event of the year for the community last April.
As in other past events, many cars full of people with needs came to be served. This time, however, even people walking down the street came in to be prayed for. “One person came searching for peace of mind, while others came due to the recent loss of family,” commented Jose Alarcón, lead pastor at Aurora First Church. “It is surprising to see the reaction of those who enter our parking lot and the response of passersby who honk, acknowledging the youth holding the cardboard signs.”
The biggest surprise, however, came earlier in April. “After two and a half years of witnessing what we have done with this event, the neighboring church, Village East Baptist Church, conducted their own drivethru prayer the week before ours. Aurora First Church members were astonished to see the neighboring church imitate what we have been doing,” Alarcón said.
“Our primary responsibility as Christian Seventhday Adventists is to share what Jesus has done and is doing on our behalf,” he continued. “The fact that a non-Adventist church could replicate what we are doing at Aurora gives me hope that other Adventist churches here in the Rocky Mountain
Church members advertise their drive-thru prayer event.
Conference would also replicate.”
Aurora First Church’s treasurer and elder Daniel Camacho noted, “The Holy Spirit is awakening the hearts and minds of church members to fulfill the commission of Jesus (Matt 28:18-20). This ministry is a favorite of the church members because it has significantly impacted the community, while not adding significant pressure on any member. This ministry is a great training ground for church members to gain experience and confidence in working with the Holy Spirit and fellow members to reach the community in various ways. We are already looking forward to our next event.”
Information provided by Jose R. Alarcón, lead pastor at the Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Colorado.
Courtesy
Jose R. Alarcón
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY
Union Adventist University Receives Grant for New Culinary Medicine Teaching Kitchen
The university will offer vegan cooking classes with an academic twist
The Ardmore Institute of Health has awarded Union Adventist University’s Master of Public Health Program a grant to establish a culinary medicine teaching kitchen (CMTK). The $35,000 will purchase six commercial-grade mobile workstations, each of which will include the culinary tools and appliances to support two students at a time, enabling the university to host classes of up to 12 students in the teaching kitchen. Any remaining funds will be used to support a community garden that was established by the university’s first public
health cohort last year.
“With the CMTK, we can translate abstract nutritional guidelines into practical, appealing meals,” said Eric Aakko, director of the Master of Public Health Program. “In public health, we promote healthy eating patterns to prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and ensure adequate nutrient intake across populations. Knowing how to cook healthy food that tastes good is essential for dietary adherence.”
Aakko is a certified plantbased chef educator and will guide students through an evidence-based culinary
medicine curriculum established by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. The curriculum is entirely plant-based and teaches basic culinary and knife skills, including the preparation of a range of entrees, sides and desserts. The first classes in the teaching kitchen will meet once per week for nine weeks starting in September.
The source of this grant, the Ardmore Institute of Health, was founded in 1947 and is committed to improving health and well-being through lifestyle change. The institute draws inspiration from Adventist principles of
healthy living and the sanitarium movement in its work.
Healthy living as stewardship and worship
Cooking classes are far from a new frontier for Adventists, and Aakko points out that lifestyle medicine mirrors many Adventist beliefs while providing a modern clinical and scientific framework for health improvement. “Both lifestyle medicine and the Adventist health message view health holistically, recognizing the interconnection between the physical, social, mental and spiritual,” he said. “The Adventist health message goes beyond just health improvement, to also see healthy living as a form of stewardship and worship.”
Learning culinary skills will help students address food insecurity and life in food deserts, issues Aakko has had to confront in communities throughout his work in public health. “The CMTK experience can empower individuals and communities to make the most of often limited resources,” he said. “This can involve teaching cooking techniques for inexpensive staples like beans, legumes and whole grains, preserving food, minimizing food waste, and adapting recipes to utilize foods available
through assistance programs like WIC or SNAP as well as community gardens and food banks.”
Research empowers health educators
Additionally, the classes will provide public health
UNION ADVENTIST
students with an applied research laboratory. Aakko anticipates future research examining behavioral change and behavioral intention before and after participation in the culinary medicine program.
According to Aakko,
research elsewhere has demonstrated students who engage in a CMTK are more likely to adopt and maintain a healthier lifestyle while also engaging with and promoting a healthier lifestyle to their patients and community. With so many
of Union’s students heading into careers related to health care, a teaching kitchen on campus will empower them to become better health educators and advocates.
First Public Health Cohort Graduates
UAU celebrates its first graduate students to earn a master’s in a field other than physician assistant studies
Among the 90 students to earn degrees from Union Adventist University in May were two history makers: Ingrid Papalii and Joshua Reyes-Meiring. They both completed master’s degrees in public health, becoming the first graduate students to earn a master’s from the university in a field other than physician
assistant studies. Both Papalii and Reyes-Meiring have previously graduated from Union’s International Rescue and Relief Program. As graduate students, they have continued to deploy with Union’s Disaster Response Team and have also worked proactively in Lincoln establishing community gardens to
address food insecurity.
“We have awesome instructors and a director who are willing to connect us with organizations we want to work with,” Papalii said. “I’m still learning, and I’m not sure where God will take me, but what I do know is that I’d like to assist in empowering vulnerable communities and
developing countries and the advancement of public health.”
“This degree is for people who enjoy the idea of impacting the communities they serve,” said Reyes-Meiring. “It has a broader focus than just one patient and allows the full impact of providers to be seen throughout their work. It’s perfect for the problem solvers who wish to prevent incidents from occurring instead of picking up the pieces afterward. I can’t wait to see how this program grows.”
Stories on these pages by Union Adventist University News.
Ingrid Papalii and Joshua Reyes-Meiring became the first graduates of Union Adventist University’s Public Health Program on May 4, 2025.
Steve Nazario
Inspiration From Family Instills Lifelong Purpose
Growing up in the Philippines, Charlet Aton witnessed firsthand the profound impact that compassionate nurses had on families during difficult times.
“I was very close to my grandparents, and my grandmother was frequently in and out of the hospital when I was young,” said Aton. “I became her chaperone, and my family taught me to advocate for her. I’ve always admired the health care providers who cared for her with such grace and kindness.”
This early exposure instilled in Aton a deep passion for caring for the elderly and sick patients. “Listening, caring and advocating for them became more than just an inspiration; it became my purpose and passion.”
After moving to the United States in 2015, Aton carried that calling with her and found herself as an integral member of the AdventHealth
Shawnee Mission Nurse Float Pool. “Nursing became more than a career for me; it became my way of serving others, offering comfort and creating a ripple of healing that reaches beyond the bedside.”
Aton recalled one of the best days she had at work, a day when she said she was guided by a quote from Maya Angelou: I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
“This philosophy has always guided me to treat others with kindness and compassion, regardless of what kind of day we’re having,” said Aton. “One day, I helped a nurse discharge a patient. As I introduced myself, the patient lit up and greeted me with a warm smile.”
The patient had remembered Aton as her nurse from four years ago, during her first hospital admission after
A recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Team Member Award for AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, Charlet Aton (second from left) was chosen because of her dedication to caring for patients with compassion, skill and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
being diagnosed with cancer. She shared how scared she was then and how Aton’s presence, support and care made a lasting impact. Aton had even personally wheeled her down to the oncology department to ensure she was in good hands.
Since then, the patient and her husband have nominated Aton multiple times for the Daisy Award—an international recognition program honoring nurses who provide compassionate and skillful care. “She told me that every time she was admitted, she looked and hoped to see me again. She said it meant the world to her to find an uplifting nurse who made her feel seen and safe.”
A recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Team Member Award for AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, Aton was chosen because of her dedication to caring for patients with compassion, skill and an unwavering commitment to excellence. She has demonstrated AdventHealth’s “Own It” service standard by mentoring and guiding new nurses, ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive and by building and maintaining orientation and new hire programs, creating recognition initiatives and fostering a sense of belonging within her team, strengthening the work environment into a place of connection and growth.
“Being nominated and named an Outstanding Team Member was an overwhelming experience,” said Aton. “I
Aton is proud of her Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, which has made her more connected to the diverse patient populations and teams she serves.
was filled with gratitude and humbled by the recognition from people I deeply admire. It reminded me that every act of service, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
Aton is also proud of her Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, which has made her more connected to the diverse patient populations and teams she serves. “Most people don’t realize that English is not my first language and that I speak with a Filipino accent,” said Aton. “At times, this has been a challenge, but it’s also part of what makes me stronger, more empathetic and culturally aware.”
No matter how far she advances in her career, Aton will always reflect on the inspiration that she had from her grandmother, whose resilience, humility and strength laid the foundation for the woman and nurse she is today.
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
Heroes of Hope Nurses who give the gift of life
Three remarkable nurses from AdventHealth Avista’s surgery center have embarked on the life-changing journey of kidney donation, going well above and beyond their calling to care for others. These stories outline the extraordinary acts of kindness and compassion demonstrated by our nurses across the region.
Stephanie Paciotti: A bond forged in friendship
On May 7, Stephanie Paciotti donated her kidney to her friend, Piper. While the two had been friends for some time, it was Piper’s health crisis last summer that truly bonded them. Her life-threatening situation and recovery was nothing short of miraculous. However, Piper’s kidneys still weren’t functioning at a sustainable level. She had been on dialysis for a year, hoping for a match from the mere 8% of the population her body would accept.
Many people stepped up to help, but unexpectedly, Paciotti turned out to be Piper’s only match. The preparation and emotion was intense, but Paciotti’s determination to give Piper more precious time with her children was unwavering. A living kidney donation offers more than survival—it brings the freedom to truly live again.
Paciotti’s journey has shown her the extraordinary power of hope, connection and love. She is honored to be part of Piper’s story and encourages others to consider organ donation. One of her favorite quotes reads: One act of kindness won’t change the world, but it may change one person’s world.
Carly Decker: A selfless act
In late 2023, Carly Decker’s family friend, 15-year-old Asia, was suffering from an autoimmune disease that attacked her kidneys and other organs. She was in desperate need of a kidney transplant. When she did receive a kidney transplant, her body unfortunately rejected it.
Decker began testing to see if she could be a match for Asia. However, testing revealed that Asia’s body would likely reject Decker’s donation. Undeterred, Decker donated her kidney to someone else in need on Asia’s behalf—moving Asia to the top of the transplant list when her perfect match becomes available. Decker’s selfless act has given Asia hope for a brighter future. Decker quickly recovered from the surgery and feels
completely back to normal. She was pleasantly surprised by how safe and straightforward the donation process was, emphasizing that donors and recipients are thoroughly screened to ensure safety.
As a mother of three young boys, Decker reflects on the importance of giving, saying, “If my boys needed something and another person could help, I would do anything for that gift.” She feels healthy and strong, with her labs showing normal results and her remaining kidney compensating perfectly. She continues to be amazed by the impact of organ donation.
“As a pre-op and post-anesthesia care unit nurse, I have a greater appreciation of what my patients experience on their own surgery day,” said Decker. “It is such an emotional day for them and their loved ones and one of the most important of their lives! Having been on the other side, I intentionally try to approach their nursing care with even more respect, understanding and compassion.”
Mark Boulware: A son’s gift
Mark Boulware’s mother suffered from kidney failure. As a result, Mark and his sister decided to get tested to be donors and the results determined he was a close match. He was excited to help improve his mother’s quality of life. His desire to help others has always been strong, even from a young age when he opted to be an organ donor on his driver’s license.
As a nurse and massage therapist, Boulware has always wanted to heal people, and donating his kidney is another way of fulfilling that calling. His advice to potential donors is simple: “If you want to donate, do it because you want to.”
Chloe Dean is communications and public relations manager at AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region.
Stephanie Paciotti (left) with Piper
Mark Boulware (left) and his mother
Carly Decker recovering after the surgery
FAREWELL
Brooks, Bettie Jane, b. Dec. 22, 1943 in Guymon, OK. d. May 6, 2025 in Hutchinson, KS. Member of Hutchinson Church. Survivors include husband Robert; sons Russell and Ryan; 1 sister; 2 grandchildren.
Dunkin, Beverley J. (McCown), b. Mar. 18, 1932 in Lincoln, NE. d. Apr. 29, 2025 in TX. Member of Woodland Park (CO) Church. Preceded in death by husband Donald. Survivors include daughter Sharon Hagopian; sons Dennis, Robert, and David; 9 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren.
Hetzel, Eldon Lee, b. Jan. 10, 1933 in Quinter, KS. d. May 12, 2025. Member of Wichita South (KS) Church. Preceded in death by wife Mary Belle; 1
brother; 1 grandson. Survivors include wife Beverly; daughter Tonnya Lewis; stepdaughter Angie Love; son Bryon; 2 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren. Served in the US Army Airborne Infantry and in the Reserves.
Nelson, Sharon, b. Mar. 27, 1952 in Huron, SD. d. May 3, 2025 in Huron, SD. Member of Huron Church. Preceded in death by 5 brothers. Survivors include 1 brother.
Rada, Judith “Judy”, b. Mar. 29, 1951 in Hot Springs, SD. d. Feb. 26, 2025 in Sioux Falls, SD. Member of Dakota Conference Church. Preceded in death by several family members. Survivors include 5 sisters; 3 brothers.
Stienbarger, Eva Marie, b. Apr. 4, 1939 in Brady, NE. d. Dec. 2, 2024 in McPherson, KS. Member of McPherson Church. Preceded in death by husband Leslie; son Eugene; 1 brother. Survivors include daughter Tammy Fast; 1 sister; 2 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren.
Swanson, Anita “Kathy” Thompson, b. Jun. 23, 1947 in Denver, CO. d. Oct. 17, 2024 in Montrose, CO. Member of Montrose Church. Preceded in death by husband Gene. Survivors include stepdaughters Janelle and Karen; son William; 3 grandchildren; 7 step-grandchildren; 5 step-great-grandchildren.
Williams, Gayland Verne, b. Jun. 13, 1942 in Hutchinson, KS. d. Apr. 21, 2025 in Hutchinson, KS. Member of Hutchinson Church. Preceded in death by daughter Angela Johnson; 1 sister; 1 brother. Survivors include daughter Carmela; stepdaughter Deb Chronister; sons Keith and Ivan; 9 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; many extended family members. Served in the US Navy.
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employment/and upload a cover letter and resume or CV, and provide names and contact information of 3 references. For further information, email Bruce Forbes, Academic Dean, at bruce.forbes@uau.edu.
Union Adventist University is seeking qualified applicants for Research and Instruction Librarian. This position develops and provides reference and library instruction to diverse groups of students, faculty, staff, and community visitors, using modalities suited to the individual, classroom, or online environments. Generous benefit package includes tuition assistance to dependents. Apply at uau.edu/employment.
Union Adventist University is seeking applicants for Office Manager – Operations to provide strong customer service skills to faculty, staff, students, parents, and outside agencies. This role encourages collaboration, teamwork, and self-direction. Full-time, hourly position with excellent benefits including tuition assistance to dependents. Apply at uau.edu/employment or contact Sandy Kolb at sandy. kolb@uau.edu for more information.
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Join Streams of Light International for lifechanging mission trips! Share hope, spread truth, and experience the joy of service. Connect with people, pray with those in need, and make an eternal impact. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to missions, there’s a place for you. Learn more at StreamsOfLight.net
Oak Park Academy Alumni Weekend: September 12-13, 2025. Alumni, former faculty and staff are invited to this reunion weekend. Honor classes are: 1945, 1950, 1955, 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980-83. Location: Gates Hall, 825 15th St., Nevada, IA. Plan now to attend. For more information: Allayne Petersen Martsching, 402.312.7368 or email: allaynemartsching@gmail.com
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