July 2024

THE SPECTRUM OF GIVING

Joy as a Healer

Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D. President of the Southern Union Conference

In his favor is life: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” Psalm 30:5.

When hope replaces doubt, then despair turns to joy. Jesus came to stop the mouth of doubt. He turned sackcloth and ashes into wedding clothes. He anointed the world with the oil of joy.

But will you join the cries of those whom the Lord has saved? If you were the musical conductor of a 200-voice choir, would you have brought the crowd to its feet as Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” shouted its triumph for the first time?

The world has too many inhibited Christians. They sit on their hands, while the “little hills … every side” clap their hands for joy.

There was a brass band in Tonga that made the coral reefs reverberate with praise as the members performed the “Messiah” at a baptism by the sea. In varied nations of Africa, massed choirs sang praises of the Lord God Who reigns. Another concert hall in London yielded a thousand voices lifting up, “Hallelujah!”

Norman Vincent Peale taught a whole generation the power of positive thinking — but we forget so soon. Come the first chilling winds of something gone wrong, and hope melts away. It should never be that way. God has given the world infinite joy in Jesus Christ.

Bartimaeus waited for the crowd to come near. For some time he had heard them coming. At last, they were near enough. “Who is it?” he asked, for he was blind. “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.

The moment for which was longed has finally come. He knows about Jesus. But, “Jesus of Nazareth”? Is that what they call Him? Not good enough. “Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me,” he calls. That’s Who He is: the One come to fulfill the promises of the covenant made with David. He is King and can do for me what no other can.

They urge quiet on him. He cannot know it, for his eyes forbid the knowledge, but Jesus heads a triumphal procession. “Not now, not now,” they insist, but he will not desist. His voice rises to a yell, “Have mercy on me!”

Bartimaeus looks around, sees the crowd, sees Jesus. He begins to praise God. He pushes to the front. His voice has found a new power, an unstoppable praise.

There is something therapeutic about praise. Praising God for His blessings yields success on every frontier of life.

I am praising God for the 400 souls baptized through the “System for Survival in the 21st Century” evangelistic series so far this year. The ministerial teams, in concert with faithful members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church within the Southern Union borders, continue to significantly contribute to the growth of our territory. As we endeavor this year to equip believers and evangelize unbelievers, God continues to work miracles in our lives. Let’s continue to raise incessant praise to our God.

“To praise God in fullness and sincerity of heart is as much a duty as is prayer,” Christ Object Lessons, p. 299. –RCS

Volume 118, No. 7, July 2024

The Southern Tidings is the official house organ of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE

302 Research Drive

Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092

Mail Address P.O. Box 923868

Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30010-3868

Telephone 770-408-1800

www.southernunion.com

EDITOR Bryant Taylor, D.Min.

MANAGING EDITOR Irisene Douce

CIRCULATION Yaime Cordova

ADVERTISING Yaime Cordova

LAYOUT O’livia Woodard

SOCIAL MEDIA Christina Norris

PRODUCTION College Press

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

ADVENTHEALTH

Elizabeth Camps

ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY

Jennifer Audette

CAROLINA

Rebecca Carpenter

FLORIDA

Gladys Neigel

GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND

Nathan Zinner

GULF STATES

Daniel Claudet

KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE

Paola Mora Zepeda

OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY

Norman Jones

SOUTH ATLANTIC

James Lamb, Ph.D.

SOUTH CENTRAL

Roger R. Wade

SOUTHEASTERN

Benia Dean

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

Rebecca Brooks

CONFERENCE/ INSTITUTION DIRECTORY

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GULF STATES 334-272-7493

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KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE 615-859-1391

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ADVENTHEALTH 407-357-2083

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ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY 800-500-7747

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OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY 256-726-7000

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SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

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july

THE SPECTRUM OF GIVING

BY LUCAS L. JOHNSON II

Atalented art teacher uses her social media platform to inspire and spread love. An entrepreneur’s multi-million dollar company provides tens of thousands of electronic devices to youth

during the pandemic. A barber does more than transform hair, he transforms lives.

As Seventh-day Adventists, we believe that a good Christian steward is someone who understands that God is

the creator and owner of everything, but has empowered us as managers of the blessings He gives us. This includes time, opportunities, abilities, possessions, and the blessings of the Earth and its resources.

Here are several individuals — including the teacher, businessman, and barber — who epitomize stewardship in the broadest sense by excelling in the areas of talent, transformation, time, trust, and treasure.

TALENT

When Autumn Goodman graduated from Andrews University in 2021 with a bachelor’s in fine arts, she did not plan to become a teacher. But, she enjoyed working with children.

“I just have a love for kids and learning,” said Goodman. “I’ve always been working with kids, from babysitting to being a camp counselor.”

So, she took a position as an interventionalist, or tutor, at Rolling Hills Elementary School in Orlando, Florida, before eventually landing a permanent spot as an art teacher at the school. She has since put it and her students in the national spotlight.

Goodman started showing snippets of her daily life as an art teacher on social media, like TikTok and Instagram. She shared classroom activities and projects the students were working on, organiza-

tional tips, and her personal interaction with the students. For instance, before they leave class, she encourages them to “tell someone you love them,” or show it in some way, like sharing a sandwich at lunch with a fellow student or giving flowers to a teacher.

“I know that I’m making an impact on them because of the way that I see them treating each other, which is really a blessing in itself,” she said.

Her social media platform has gotten the attention of countless people, including a producer from “The Jennifer Hudson Show” who invited her to a taping of the show in May in recognition of National Teacher Appreciation. Goodman thought she would just be sitting in the audience, but she was in for a surprise. At one point during the show, Hudson began talking about teacher appreciation and that there was a special teacher she wanted to highlight. Then Hudson started showing Goodman’s TikTok videos and a clip from a Zoom interview she had with producers before coming on the show. She then invited Goodman to come down and take a seat across from her, where she asked her questions about her life as an art teacher. At the end of the discussion,

Hudson presented Goodman with Cricut design materials for her students and a check for $10,000.

“Thank you so much for what you do,” said Hudson. “You’re a blessing of a teacher. Keep doing what you’re doing.”

TRANSFORMATION

Jeffery Johnson has been cutting hair in Huntsville, Alabama, for 37 years. He said what he enjoys most about his job is the reaction of customers after getting a fresh haircut.

“Some of them might be down when they come in,” said Johnson. “But after a cut, a fresh look, it spruces up their personality and makes them feel good about themselves.”

Johnson wants individuals who may not be able to make it to his shop to feel the same. That’s why he voluntarily visits people who are ill or unable to get around and cuts their hair for free. He did that recently when he found out a gentleman he once played sports with was hospitalized.

“I went to his room and I told him, I’m going to take care of you,” recalled Johnson. “When I finished, I saw a big smile come on his face.”

That man, Lenell May, has since been released from the hospital and is making a full recovery. He will never forget what Johnson did for him.

“I had been in the hospital for like two weeks and I wasn’t able to shave or anything; I was looking rough,” said May. “When he came and did that, I was like, wow! I was thankful, man.”

At his shop, Johnson said there’s always discussion on various topics, and he often uses the opportunity to talk about Christ and His saving grace. He said he’s also a faithful Sabbath keeper, and even though Saturday is usually one of the busiest days for barbers and hairstylists, he doesn’t work on Saturday unless he’s cutting the hair of someone in need.

When he goes back and looks over the

Autumn Goodman (left) is pictured with Jennifer Hudson at “The Jennifer Hudson Show.”

financial books, he said he notices that he’s made just as much money during the week as those barbers or stylists in the shop who do work on Saturday.

“I never worked at the shop on the Sabbath, and I still made all my ends meet,” said Johnson. “I will cut someone’s hair in the hospital on the Sabbath, but I’m not looking to get paid. It’s out of love.”

TIME

Evelyn Nicholaides, a retired schoolteacher who taught kindergarten for 25 years, now spends her time assisting with several ministries.

Two of the main ministries are the Quiet Bags that she spearheaded at the Fletcher Church in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and the International Food Fair she helped start to benefit Captain Gilmore Christian School in Fletcher, North Carolina.

The Quiet Bags are bags containing items that children can play with during the sermon time to help keep them quiet. For instance, a bag’s content might in-

clude a small whiteboard with markers, or small stuffed or plastic animals.

In the case of the food fair, Nicholaides said there are anywhere from 10 to 15 different countries represented, and people from the diverse community help make the food. Sales from the food go to Captain Gilmore Christian School to help with things like classroom supplies.

One of Nicholaides’ favorite Scriptures is Matthew 10:8, which says, in part, freely you have received; freely give.

“The time that God gives us is precious,” said Nicholaides. “I believe that, as much as we can, we should use it to uplift Him and help others.”

TRUST

Phyllis Lee understands what it means to be trusted. At various times she served as treasurer, executive secretary, and interim president in the Central States Conference. She would go on to become the chief financial officer for the Office of Regional Conference Ministries and

the Regional Retirement Plan before retiring herself in 2021.

Lee said at times she was a bit overwhelmed by some of her responsibilities, but trusted that God would see her through, and He did. She said she also heavily valued honesty and transparency in her work, particularly in the position of treasurer. She said sometimes treasurers are hesitant to share the financial picture if it isn’t pretty.

“If there’s bad news to be told, you tell it. If there’s good news to be told, you tell that too,” said Lee. “That way, people get the confidence in you that whatever it is you’re telling them, it’s real. It’s the truth, whether it’s good, or whether it’s bad. They’re getting transparency.”

Regardless of the situation, Lee said people should also simply speak up for what they believe in. She’s a firm believer in the saying, “When good men do nothing, evil triumphs.”

“You want to be able to look at yourself in the mirror and be able to say, ‘I was true to what I believed in,’ and that ‘I spoke up,’” she said.

Jeffery Johnson (right), a barber in Huntsville, Alabama, cuts Lenell May’s hair while he was hospitalized.

Evelyn Nicholaides (right) serves her homemade baklava at the annual International Food Fair.

TREASURE

Without question, Darrell Thomas has built quite a bit of wealth. His information technology (IT) company, Thomas Consultants, holds a number of major contracts, including the State of Tennessee and Memphis-Shelby County Schools. One of the company’s largest partners is Hewlett Packard.

But, despite his possessions or status, Thomas, an Adventist since age 16, makes time to faithfully serve at the Breath of Life Church in Memphis, Tennessee, as an elder, treasurer, and musician.

“I don’t just sit back and throw money at it,” said Thomas. “I’m actually a part of what goes on there.”

He’s also in tune to what’s happen-

ing in his community and seeks to help those in need. During the pandemic, school systems across the country were in need of electronic devices, like laptops and notebook computers, for students to use remotely because of cancellation of in-person classes. Memphis-Shelby County Schools purchased 100,000 HP notebook computers and other devices, which Thomas’ company quickly delivered.

“When we win multi-million-dollar contracts, and we win a lot of them, that’s not what excites me,” said Thomas. “What excites me is what I can do with that to further the cause and make my community better.”

Thomas said he also heeds the Scrip -

tures that say, what does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul, and that by faithfully tithing, I’ll open the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing you won’t have room enough to receive.

“What I always loved about that Scripture is every house that I’ve ever gone to has more windows than doors,” said Thomas. “He didn’t say open the doors.”

Whether it’s through talent, transformation, time, trust, or treasure, these individuals are fulfilling the blessings of stewardship described by Ellen G. White in Counsels on Stewardship

“Every good thing of earth was placed here by the bountiful hand of God as an expression of His love to man. The poor are His, and the cause of religion is His,” wrote White. “The gold and the silver are the Lord’s; and He could rain them from heaven if He chose. But instead of this He has made man His steward, entrusting him with means, not to be hoarded, but to be used in benefiting others. He thus makes man the medium through which to distribute His blessings on earth.”

You, too, are a steward. Think of ways you can manifest the blessings of God and showcase His goodness through your life.

Lucas L. Johnson II is a freelance writer who lives in Nashville, Tennessee. Alicia Jenkins-Johnson contributed to this article.

Darrell Thomas

Phyliss Lee

Service Standards Light the Way on Patient Safety Journey

BY DIXIE TATE

AdventHealth’s executive clinical director of quality and safety shares some of the steps leading to the system’s recognition as a national leader in health care.

Keep Me Safe

Those three words are etched on the hearts of AdventHealth team members who are committed to making sure patients know that their personal safety is the health system’s top priority. Along with the three other service standards — Love Me. Make It Easy. Own It. — Keep Me Safe defines how team members interact with consumers, patients, their families, and fellow team members. The service standards debuted in 2018, shortly before the hospital system, which has more than 50 hospitals in nine states, unified under the AdventHealth brand. The standards are deeply embedded in AdventHealth’s strategic vision.

For William Scharf, M.D., executive clinical director of quality and safety for AdventHealth, patient safety is front and center every single day. That focus is reflected in the most recent release of The Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grades in fall 2023. The assignment of grades — A, B, C, D, F — to all general hospitals twice a year is intended to help people find safe hospitals in their communities.

Of AdventHealth’s 42 eligible hospitals, 31, or nearly three-quarters, received an A, which was more than double the number of hospitals with A’s in 2017. AdventHealth Daytona Beach achieved

its 24th straight A, making it one of only 18 in the country to receive the top grade in each reporting period since Leapfrog launched the grading system in 2012. In 2022, AdventHealth also received Leapfrog’s inaugural Emerald Award for Outstanding Achievement by a health care system in recognition of its strong culture of safety and accountability.

“It did not happen by accident,” said Scharf. “It happened because back around 2015 there were some really thoughtful leaders who said we want all of our hospitals to be safe; therefore, this is the journey we want to go on.”

In an interview with Becker’s Healthcare, Scharf shared, “It is very intentional. Our top leadership recognizes the

criticality of this, and this has been a focused goal for the entire organization.”

The Ladder to Success

By the time he arrived at AdventHealth in 2018, Scharf shared, “Very wise individuals, who were not pleased with the ‘sea of red’ they saw in 2015’s results, had drawn a line in the sand.” Many organizations, Scharf explained, use a “stoplight” approach for reporting health care grades: green for meeting targets; yellow, warranting closer attention; red, needing attention.

Those results prompted the establishment of “clinical imperatives,” and from then on, Scharf, who spent nearly 25 years as a general surgeon, said, “The expectation was that every hospital in our system would achieve four or five stars

William Scharf, M.D.

PHOTO BY: ADVENTHEALTH

Leapfrog Emerald Award trophy PHOTO

from CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services), an ‘A’ from Leapfrog, and a top-quartile performance in all Adult Inpatient Mortality Rates.” While inpatient mortality is certainly an important quality indicator, the CMS and Leapfrog ratings are likely the two most familiar and easily checked by consumers.

Behind the grades are a broad range of metrics and, in the case of Leapfrog, an exhaustive survey of 300-plus pages. The patient experience metric alone — one of 22 curated by Leapfrog — includes nursing communication, doctor communication, staff responsiveness, communication about medicine, and discharge information. “Some of the worst things that happen are related to a failure to communicate,” said Scharf. The CMS star-rating system has 47 metrics. But, rather than viewing grades or stars as the be-all and end-all of measures, said Scharf, they serve as more of a mirror. “If you’re a high-performing health care system, you should be looking at these and saying, ‘We really came out well on this, but there’s always more that can be done.’ We look at this information from a practical standpoint, and figure out what it is we need to do, because, at the end of the day, what is it that we’re here to do? We’re here to extend the healing ministry of Christ.”

When it comes to addressing any deficiencies, Scharf shared, leaders closely study the “report card” to prioritize opportunities and make it easy for team members to own the results. “If they go after everything, they would get nothing done,” he said.

Finding the Opportunities

“We want all of our eligible hospitals to be Leapfrog A’s,” said Scharf. “Leadership is key to an A. You have to be doing something intentionally well.”

Helping pave the way to additional A’s for the system that cared for more than 7.3 million people in 2023, is an intentional, four-pronged strategy that, in close collaboration with hospital leaders, Scharf and his team have established:

Service standards

• Provide a clinical excellence touchpoint with hospitals twice a year.

• Meet people on those teams where they are.

• Focus on the greatest priority and/or areas of impact.

• Provide support.

Coaching is an integral part of that support system and it, too, has an intentional three-step process that involves meeting with a hospital’s chief medical officer and chief nursing officer to make sure “we set you up, so you know your data. We set you up, so you know what your opportunities are after talking about the issues head-on. And three, we talk about what your plans are.”

“But we’re more than coaches,” said Scharf. “I’m their fan as well. I’m their biggest fan.”

And, that’s where another of AdventHealth’s service standards shows up in a big way.

Love Me

That is key to how Scharf approaches hospitals that fall a grade or two short of an A. In some cases, those might be recently acquired facilities that have experienced years of disinvestment under different ownership. Scharf said he shares with those team members that, “I love who you are, what you stand for. You’re coming in every single day because you want to extend the healing ministry of Christ. You’ve been through a lot. You need a hug.”

Ultimately, Scharf shared, “Safety is also a function of making team members feel safe. That’s a huge part of the culture at AdventHealth. And doesn’t it follow that if you take care of your team members, the results are likely to improve?”

Dixie Tate is AdventHealth communications specialist.

Jesus Is Risen!

BY CHRISTINA MYERS, DPT, Sc.D.

Forest Lake Academy students and staff, members and staff from local churches, and approximately 600 volunteers from the community came together to bring the story of Jesus to life on Easter Sabbath.

“The Risen Experience,” a two-hour outdoor interactive experience, was hosted on the campuses of Forest Lake Church and Forest Lake Academy in Apopka, Florida.

This free event ministered to many people and provided accessible parking and mobility assistance for all guests. There was a specific focus on outreach throughout the event, including opportunities to meet with cast members and church volunteers.

The two-mile walk was designed to allow attendees to experience first-century A.D. as well as the final days of Christ on Earth prior to His

resurrection. The event kicked off inside the Forest Lake Church sanctuary with an orientation/overview, live music, and a greeting from Mary Magdalene with an invitation to follow her to meet Jesus in Jerusalem. From there, the walk-through was nonstop action where actors and staff engaged with guests as if they were real time travelers to the city of Jerusalem with food and lodging needs.

On the way to Jerusalem, guests encountered other travelers, including a camel with his handler, and a colony of lepers just outside the city. As guests entered Jerusalem, the marketplace was impressive — a truly immersive experience — where guests encountered live animals, musicians, merchants, artists, cloth and papyrus makers, basket weavers, and more. The marketplace gave way to the scene

Jesus shared the Last Supper with His disciples in the upper room.

This happy couple shared their craft in the marketplace with onlookers.

As guests walked through the marketplace on the way to Jerusalem, they encountered many food providers, including this woman selling bread to her customer.

from the Last Supper, where guests experienced Jesus’ final moments with His entire group of disciples as He carried out the first communion. Then guests traveled on to the Garden of Gethsemane where event creators imagined the battle between good and evil as Jesus wrestled with the path before Him, and His disciples returned to their slumber again and again.

Jesus was next seen before the unrelenting Caiaphas, and the crowd was encouraged to participate in the trial. Then Jesus appeared before Pontius Pilate, who washed his hands after the crowd chose to release Barabbas instead of Jesus. Guests then walked along with Jesus as He carried the cross to Golgotha for scenes from the crucifixion where followers of Jesus worshiped and mourned at His feet. Finally, guests made their way to the resurrection, where their imagination was captured as they were swept up in the joy of Jesus’ followers.

As guests participated in the journey, they were no longer spectators,

Rejoice with the followers of Jesus and your community, Jesus is Risen!

Hallelujah, Jesus Christ, King of Heaven and Earth!

but became part of the story. This could particularly be felt as they walked beside Christ as He carried the cross to Golgotha.

Advice from the locals to guests as they traveled through the experience:

• Do not stray or straggle, or Roman soldiers will assist you to your group.

• Keep a watchful eye on the lepers outside the city.

• Do your best to avoid the zealous tax collectors.

Welcomers to “The Risen Experience” communicated to guests that the purpose of the program was to know

Jesus, to see His love and what He has done for them, and to know what He can and will do in their lives. All participants and actors were passionate and thoughtful in their performances. Beautiful live music was heard throughout, including solos sung at several locations.

Overall, the organization was impressive, allowing more than 1,000 guests to have an enjoyable and memorable experience. One attendee said, “My family and I have been watching The Chosen [TV series], and “The Risen Experience” has brought these events to life in a wonderful, dramatic way.”

Then came the morning, and guests captured the joy of Jesus’ followers as they learned of His Resurrection.

Christina Myers, DPT, Sc.D. is assistant professor and director of clinical education at South College.

Jesus continued to seek His heavenly Father for strength in the Garden of Gethsemane while His disciples returned to their slumber again and again.

Guests walked beside Jesus as He carried the cross to Golgotha, and then watched as He was crucified.

Southern Tidings to Have Pins at Pathfinder Camporee

BY CHRISTINA NORRIS

The Southern Tidings is happy to announce we will have limited-edition Southern Tidings trading pins. That’s right! This year we have not one, but eight uniquely designed pins!

These limited-edition pins each feature a Pathfinder on the front earning a Pathfinder honor. The pins open to reveal which honor the Pathfinder is earning. Each pin represents a different state within the Southern Union territory. Pathfinders will want to be sure to add these pins to their collection.

To qualify for a pin, Pathfinders must participate in a pin challenge. The challenges will include learning about com-

munication, participating in videos, writing stories for publication, and more. The more challenges a Pathfinder participates in, the more pins they can get toward completing a full set! Be sure to keep up to date on the latest pin and International Pathfinder Camporee news by following our Instagram: @SouthernTidings.

FIND ALL EIGHT PINS THROUGH THE TIDINGS

I Spy a turtle...

I Spy something purple... I Spy a child with glasses... I Spy a lantern... I Spy a white apron... I Spy bubbles...

I Spy a flower pot...

I Spy a microphone...

Christina Norris is the associate communication director for the Southern Union Conference.

Bonnie Lue McKinney Passes to Her Rest at 83

Bonnie Lue McKinney, one of eight children born June 25, 1939, to Arden and Berniceteen Bryant in Walnut Grove, Miss., passed away April 21, 2023. At the age of 15, she and her family moved to Flint, Mich., where she later became a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

She was the wife of the late Oliver J. McKinney Jr., who served as the Southern Union Conference ministerial secretary, as well as children’s ministries and stewardship director.

Bonnie McKinney was a health educator, author, business owner, and researcher. She was interviewed on several local television and radio programs for her accomplishments in human disabilities in children and adults. In 1966, she graduated from Oakwood College earning a bachelor of science in secretarial science, and would years later receive the distinction of Oakwood’s Alumna of the Year. After graduation from Oakwood, she served for a year as the first bookkeeper for the newly organized Allegheny West Conference in Columbus, Ohio, and in 1969 she studied nutrition at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich. In 1987, she earned a state board license in massage therapy, and received certificates in cranial sacral therapy, and a diploma in physical therapy aid. She also studied extensively in a variety of other medial and alternative health training programs, and numerous classes towards an M.S./Ph.D. in natural hygiene, eventually earning a doctoral degree in holistic health education in 1993 from The American College of Holistic Theology. Since 1987, McKinney worked closely with the medical communities while independently researching human disabilities, seeking personal hope to regain

normal function after many life-threatening injuries.

Her discoveries uncovered key missing factors that would explain and solve numerous health issues. McKinney, and her son, Dion, a certified respiratory therapist, developed a measurable treatment protocol designed to speed healing and self-realignment of the body’s natural range of motion. The program aided in improving respiratory physiology in asthmatics, immune system dysfunctions, autism, cerebral palsy, childbirth trauma, and many other trauma-based diseases and disabilities. An intense study of “The Eight Laws of Health” and the study of the human framework revealed a direct link between a suppressed immune system in humans due to restrictions in overall postural circulation.

Her research indicated that instability

in this area was the key cause of interruption in human breathing, fluid movement, limb function, and body flexibility. She then developed exercises, muscle releases, and techniques that worked in harmony with man’s overall spinal design. These techniques aided, relaxed, and stimulated the body’s own natural ability to release and unlock body trauma.

In 1987, McKinney opened The New Concept Circulation Center and established C.O.R.E. (Circulation, Oxygenation, Relaxation Restoration, and Elimination System), which is the heart of the Neuromuscular Biomechanics Circulation Fitness System. This system was presented at the New Modalities Conference in Phoenix, Ariz., in 1988, and at the Michigan Sleep Consultant Center in Flint, Mich., in 1994.

McKinney worked directly with an Atlanta, Ga., physician who integrated her program with the treatment of her patients since she opened her clinic. In 1994, as an accredited holistic practitioner, she was accepted to work in three local area hospital intensive care units with stroke/comatose patients at the request of their families. She has been credited with aiding hundreds of people in their return to function with medically unsolvable health issues.

She has received referrals from, and has been endorsed by, many general practitioners, neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedics, chiropractors, and other health professionals seeking more options in healthcare.

The funeral service was held May 5, 2024, at Atlanta Boulevard Church with Brian McKinney, pastor and eulogist, and Daryl Anderson, pastor and officiating minister.

Long-term Occupational Therapy Helps Low-income Patients, AHU Study Finds

Gregg Girard spent two years confined to a wheelchair following a stroke in 2014. Then one day, he showed up at Hope Clinic.

“Up until then, all my physical therapy and occupational therapy revolved around teaching me how to get in and out of my wheelchair,” said Girard. “Nobody would teach me how to walk. When I started at Hope Clinic, I was in a wheel-

chair and they asked me, ‘Why are you in a wheelchair?’ It was the first time in the therapy world that someone gave me that hope, that permission.”

Girard was a successful property manager from Orlando, Fla., living in London 10 years ago. He was 41, physically fit, and living well. Briefly back in the U.S. to obtain a visa, he ended up experiencing a basal ganglia hemor-

rhage, one of the most severe strokes, caused by uncontrolled hypertension. When he didn’t show up at a party, his friends looked for him and found him on the floor of his home.

He spent the next month in a medically induced coma, following surgery to remove the hematoma, the source of the bleeding in his brain, and to place a shunt to drain fluid. He woke up in the

Hope Clinic helped Gregg Girard recover from a stroke he suffered 10 years ago.

PHOTO

hospital 40 days later with no recollection, and little understanding of how intense a brain bleed he had. He spent four months recovering in the hospital, was discharged to his home in a wheelchair with orders for physical and occupational therapy, and he had his parents move into his Orlando home.

“I was never told I wouldn’t walk again. They told my parents, but they never told me because they didn’t want to discourage me,” said Girard

Through his own research at home, Girard came to understand what had happened to him and how he might improve his daily functioning. He spent two years at daily outpatient therapy sessions followed by coming home to lie on the couch until dinner time, slowly teaching himself how to get around with a hemi walker. When insurance coverage of his daily therapy sessions ran out, he sought private options and ended up at Hope Clinic, a free clinic operated by AdventHealth University (AHU).

Nine years later, Girard is walking, working, driving, living on his own, and traveling. He continues to visit Hope Clinic for bimonthly maintenance sessions to strengthen his mobility and function. He became one of 64 Hope Clinic patients who participated in a nationally recognized yearlong study in 2020 by Hope Clinic and AHU faculty.

The study, which showed the positive impact of free, weekly, long-term occupational therapy on low-income patients, was published in the August issue of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy.

“It’s very challenging to get published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy,” said Milly Rodriguez, OTR/L, CLT, AHU faculty and clinical director of Hope Clinic, and co-author of the study. “This is so prestigious and brings great recognition to the important work we’re doing at Hope Clinic.”

Hope Clinic, opened in 2011, is a faculty-led, free-standing clinic providing free occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) to children and

adults, like Girard, who need treatment but cannot afford it or get it approved by insurance. OT and PT students help patients under the supervision of faculty.

“There’s nothing like our clinic across the United States,” said Chia-Wei Fan, Ph.D., OTR/L, associate professor of occupational therapy at AHU and lead author of the study.

The significance of the study is the finding that long-term therapy at pro bono clinics can improve the occupational performance of clients.

“This study addressed health disparities in unique and effective ways,” the journal article states. “By using objective measures of functional mobility and selfcare, the study provides robust evidence of the faculty-led clinic’s impact in providing underserved and uninsured communities with effective client-centered occupational therapy services.

The study was funded through the AHU Faculty Research Seed Grant in 2018 that provided $6,000 — funds used to purchase research software and pay a research assistant. That research assistant was Kathryn Drumheller, M.S., OTR/L, second author of the study, who is now a staff therapist in Orange City, Fla.

While the idea that any patient would improve after a year’s worth of occupational therapy seems entirely plausible, there was no study had officially shown that yet.

“We needed to be able to show that the impact is real,” said Rodriguez. “Working with an occupational therapist has a good impact on patients’ quality of life. We theorized this was true, but now we have the data to back us up.”

Often, health insurance companies will approve a maximum of six weeks of therapy following surgery, hospitalization, accident, or illness such as a stroke or cardiac event. When the approved number of visits ends, patients are often provided with instructions for activities and movements to do at home.

“With chronic conditions, this study demonstrates a benefit to providing longer periods of therapy for longer periods

of time,” said Christine Moghimi, ScD., MAS, OTR/L, chair of AHU’s Occupational Therapy Department and dean of academic leadership. “Patients don’t necessarily plateau at six weeks. This study shows that patients can continue to show improvement. Even three or four years post-stroke, therapy can still make a significant impact.”

“This could even open the door to the idea of returning to therapy later on in life,” said Moghimi.

Not all patients will benefit from longterm occupational therapy, but goal setting and assessments can help determine which patients have yet to reach their maximum potential, said Rodriguez.

The study, presented at this year’s American Occupational Therapy Association’s Annual Conference, was featured in the journal’s Authors & Issues YouTube series and granted Open Access, meaning its content is free and available for download to other health care professionals and researchers.

For at-risk patients, this study is more than just numbers. It is further proof that if a way exists for them to heal, patients often will thrive, the authors said.

“Being able to access this type of care gives them hope,” said Moghimi. “This underserved population is very motivated to do well and so grateful that something like this exists.”

For Girard, Hope Clinic is exactly as its name implies. “I wish there were more places like Hope Clinic. Having a place like Hope Clinic is just amazing.”

BY JENNIFER AUDETTE, ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY SOCIAL MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Carolina Regional Qualifying Championship Hosts Third Annual Robotics Tournament

FIRST Inspires, in partnership with the Adventist Robotics League, collaborated with the Adventist Christian Academy of Raleigh to host the Third Annual Carolina Regional Qualifying Championship on April 7, 2024, for the 2023-2024 FIRST® LEGO® MASTERPIECE SM for students in grades 4-8.

During the past season, 12 Adventist Robotics League teams from across the southwest region explored imaginative new ways to merge art and technology on a global scale. These teams included Oakwood Adventist Academy, Alabama; Duluth Adventist Christian School and Ramah Jr. Academy, Georgia; Tri-City Christian Academy, Adventist Christian Academy of Raleigh, Greater Fayetteville Adventist Academy, Carolina Adventist Academy, and Silver Creek Adventist School, North Carolina; Eddlemon Adventist Christian Academy, South Carolina; and Calvary Adventist School, Virginia.

Students unleashed their imagination to redefine the realms of art and inspire others with their innovative and creative fervor. The weekend’s activities primarily focused on Adventist education with an emphasis on STEAM enrichment. On Sabbath, the sermon was delivered by

Carlton Byrd, president of the Southwest Regional Conference, and titled “What About The Children?”

On Sunday, more than 400 people tuned in to the live-streamed event on Facebook and YouTube, witnessing the top three teams advancing to the National Adventist Robotics Championship: Silver Creek, Tri-City RoboRevelators, and ACA Raleigh Gear Girls. Closing prayer was given by Debleaire Snell, senior pastor of Oakwood University Church and director/speaker of Breath of Life.

The Carolina Regional Adventist Robotics Tournament also announced John Deere’s $5,000 investment to support this tournament in Raleigh. This donation aligns with John Deere Foundation’s

ongoing commitment to contribute $100 million to family and youth education over the next decade. “Youth require equitable access to education for their lives to leap forward,” says Pat Barnes, senior global program officer for education and equity at John Deere.

Other local sponsors, including TE Connectivity, NC A&T University, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Athletic SOS, collectively contributed over $5,000. The Adventist Robotics League operates under the FIRST® umbrella, preparing young people ages 4-14 for the future through enjoyable, handson learning experiences. Participants gain real-world problem-solving skills through a guided, global robotics program, fostering collaboration between today’s students and teachers to build a better future together.

“This exemplifies excellence in Christian plus STEAM education,” said LaFayette Trawick, tournament director.

BY LAFAYETTE TRAWICK

Carolina Camp Meeting 2024 Brings Week of Inspiration, Renewal at Lake Junaluska

The Carolina Conference hosted its annual Camp Meeting at Lake Junaluska from May 26 to June 1, 2024. The gathering drew hundreds for a week filled with spiritual enrichment and community.

Ron Clouzet, D.Min., spearheaded the seminar “Living by the Spirit,” emphasizing the necessity of a daily baptism of the Holy Spirit. Citing Ellen White, he detailed eight conditions for receiving the Spirit, including deep repentance, obedience, and persistent intercession for others, offering attendees a roadmap for spiritual growth.

Evening sessions from Sunday through Thursday featured Andy Nash, who provided impactful messages on practical spirituality and transformative faith, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

David and Marquita Klinedinst conducted specialized evangelism training, exploring effective visitation techniques, Bible studies, and strategic planning for church outreach. Their practical advice and anecdotes from the field equipped participants with essential skills for spreading the Gospel.

The camp choir, under the direction of Kathy Russell, performed a diverse mix of contemporary and traditional songs, enriching the worship experience. The youth orchestra, led by Ellen and Jeremy Francisco, showcased young talents ranging from ages 11 to 22, adding a vibrant musical element to the event.

Children’s programs featured interactive storytelling that brought biblical tales to life. Sandra Doran, Ed.D., led a seminar on learning styles, which offered valuable insights, helping attendees enhance educational and personal interactions through a better understanding of diverse learning approaches.

The annual Run for Life 5K race and Fun Run saw enthusiastic participation, with Cooper Getchell winning the 5K, followed by Judah Kim and Malcolm Smith. In the Fun Run, Calev Harrold, Matthew Wickham, and Elliot Whitsett led the pack.

Alex Bryant, D.Min., president of the North American Division, delivered keynote addresses focusing on unity and mission. His messages aligned with the Camp Meeting’s theme, “When the Spirit Comes,” inspired attendees.

Special musical guest Jennifer LaMountain captivated the audience with her Sabbath afternoon concert on June 1, adding a special touch to the weekend.

Leslie Louis, Carolina Conference president, concluded the meetings with his Sabbath evening sermon, “A Message from the Empty Chair,” delivering a powerful and reflective message that resonated deeply with those in attendance.

Camp Meeting provided a week of profound spiritual renewal, equipping, and inspiring participants for continued faith and service.

BY CONTRIBUTED

Orlando Central Hosts

“The Korean Convocation”

Orlando Central Korean Church hosted “The Korean Convocation” in Orlando, Fla. November 2-5, 2023. This gathering marked the first post-COVID assembly of Korean churches in Florida, aimed at fostering revival and fellowship. In spite of their modest size, Tampa and Miami Korean churches envisioned this annual event as a catalyst for community bonding, faith sharing, and mutual support.

Originally established for Korean immigrants, Korean churches now serve a broader demographic. To address the diverse needs, there are specific ministries: Korean Ministry for first-generation immigrants, and English Ministry for second- and third-generation Korean Americans and those who are not Koreans. At this event, Insik Ahn, pastor at the Alabama Korean Church, led the Korean Ministry with a revival sermon on “The Joy of Salvation.” For the English

Ministry, missionary Jessica Jun delivered timely and uplifting messages on “Third Culture Kid (TCK),” resonating well with the attendees.

On Sabbath afternoon, Orlando Central Korean Church organized an array of Bible-themed booths. These included: “Bible Memory Verse,” “Bible Bingo,” “Dalgona Game,” “Bible Maze,” “Bible Coloring,” “Bible Acrostic Poem,” “Bi-

ble Spot the Difference,” “Bible Crossword,” “Overcoming Canaan,” and “Talent Market”. These booths, operated by dedicated young adults from the church, not only brought joy to participants of all ages, but also fostered a sense of unity in Christ among leaders and attendees.

“The Korean Convocation” was supported by the Florida Conference which provided significant spiritual encouragement and strength to the local, often small and in minority, church communities. This convocation not only offered an opportunity for spiritual revival, but also facilitated collaboration among churches, ensuring sustained growth, and support within the Korean Adventist community in Florida.

BY SUNGJOON “PAUL” MIN, ASSOCIATE PASTOR, ORLANDO

CENTRAL KOREAN CHURCH

A large group attended the Korean Convocation.

One of the activity tables available

Lake Worth Spanish Church Offers Soccer Academy for Community Children

Some of the leaders from the Lake Worth, Fla., Spanish Church came up with the idea of starting “Free Soccer Academy” to help families in the community. Soccer is a very common sport that is growing in this country right now. Many families and children are looking for academies where they can start learning the basics.

Levi Sanches, coach/trainer, his wife, Maira, and his three children have a good knowledge of the sport because the children went to many tournaments, and the Sanches’ were involved with the community as the children were growing up. This family decided to give time and resources to help families who love the sport and, at the same time, use the church facilities to help these families get in contact with

the church. There is a group of members involved in coaching the children and helping the families. During the soccer practice, whoever wants of the adults can do exercises as well.

Every Monday night, the church patio becomes the center of evangelism to reach

the children and families, just like Jesus did, spending time with people and helping with their needs. More than 25 children come every week, and more than 15 children are from families of the community.

The church hopes to make an impact in the lives of each young person, and provide a special place for them to enjoy time together with families on the church property, especially during these days when time runs so fast and families don’t have much time to spend together.

Lake Worth members pray that those little seeds being sown today will be able to be seen in the future growing in the Kingdom of God.

BY ROLANDO MORGADO

Children enjoy learning at Lake Worth Church’s Free Soccer Academy.

Every Monday night, the church patio becomes the center of evangelism to reach children and families, just like Jesus did, spending time with people and helping with their needs.

Pathfinders, Adventurers Host

“Kids’

Fun Day”

Three hundred children and their parents enjoyed learning and seeing emergency response vehicles, learning about beekeeping, and playing in bouncy houses at the 10th annual “Kids’ Fun Day.” The event hosted by the Bristol, Tenn., Adventurer and Pathfinder Clubs took place at the Sugar Hollow Park in neighboring Bristol, Va.

Gary Johnson, Pathfinder leader, contacted the Parks and Recreation Department of Bristol to secure a section of the park, and early Sunday morning, the volunteers set up signs, registration area, and the canopies and tables to house the learning stations.

Each child who attended was registered and given a passport to carry with them throughout the day. At each station, the children and their parent/guardian would listen to the short presentation at each station, and after the child received four stamps on their passport, they went into one of five bounce houses/slides, rode on the Thomas Train, and/or got their face painted by the best artist around. They then learned some other things and got to play some more.

The day was perfect for the event with sunny skies and the occasional cloud to give some relief from the heat.

This year, the police, sheriff’s department, SWAT team truck, fire engines, and an emergency truck manned by EMTs were stations that each child passed through to learn how each department serves the community to keep everyone safe.

In the main area other stations included music, beekeeping, woodworking, health emphasis with the Virginia Health Department, blood pressure screenings, information on music camps for children, and more. E.W. Dempsy, Georgia-Cumberland Conference health ministries director, led the “Let’s Move” program, where children did agility activities. The Pathfinders’ booth had rope-mak-

ing demonstrations and a nature exhibit where everyone learned that God created Heaven and Earth in only six days, and rested on the seventh day. The Christian Motorcycle Association prayed for attendees who requested prayer. Matt Hallam, pastor, and his wife, Lila, also handed out invitations to the church’s upcoming Vacation Bible School program.

The partnerships with area non-profit organizations received positive feedback, said organizers, whose hope is to continue building relationships in the community.

BY EMMANUEL MORENINGS

Jasper Church Holds Revival

Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee license plates were in the church parking lot. The pews were filled and some of the people were even in the fellowship hall as overflow. “The Forerunner” came with a message of revival and the people were hungry to hear!

Evangelist Christopher Hudson, known as “The Forerunner,” with the ministry Forerunner Chronicles, recently spoke at the Jasper, Tenn., Church. Many visitors joined the local group of believers from the early Sabbath School time through the afternoon hours to hear the powerful reminder of staying fo-

cused on Jesus and not on the unfolding events in the world.

Even though Leonard Bland, men’s ministries leader, had scheduled the revival event almost a year earlier, Hudson said he did not know what he would speak on until the day of the event. The end result was exactly what the peo-

Attendees to revival meetings held in Jasper, Tenn., were encouraged to wear diverse cultural attire, representing the spreading of the Gospel to the whole world. Countries represented included Africa, China, Egypt, Figi, India, Nepal, St. Vincent, and St. Croix.

ple needed to hear. Attendees were reminded of five important messages:

1. Daily spend a thoughtful hour reflecting on the life of Jesus.

2. Do not be distracted with current events, politics, or even church happenings.

3. Strive for more intimacy with Jesus.

4. Witness to others about Jesus.

5. Keep your eyes on the Lord and be constantly surrendered to Him.

In addition to the messages by Hudson, Doris Combs had arranged for an international themed fellowship lunch, and Asonta Bland encouraged members to dress in diverse cultural attire to represent the goal of reaching the world with the Gospel.

It truly was a day of refocus and revival. Beverly Hawkins said, “When I watch the news or look around at things

happening, fear can grip you.” She said she is going away with a new perspective about looking instead to the One whose “perfect love casts out fear.”

The revival call has been made — get to know Jesus, lift Him up to others, and He will draw them to Himself.

BY DIANE HOOKER

Kulakov Becomes Conference’s

First Evangelism Coordinator

Peter Kulakov, a well-respected and accomplished pastor and evangelist, is the newly named assistant to the president and evangelism coordinator.

“I am excited about the increased emphasis on evangelism that Peter will provide to churches and schools across the Conference,” says Gary Rustad, Georgia-Cumberland Conference president.

This new position will provide greater coordination and assistance to Conference ministries, including publishing, Leads Bible study follow-ups, assistance to the Education Department and schools with their evangelism plans, and support of churches as they prepare for reaping and evangelistic events. In addition, Kulakov will serve as a liaison with It Is Written, Southern’s School of Religion, and the SALT evangelism program.

From the early age of 7, Kulakov learned that Christians are called to speak about Jesus. While attending first grade in a public communist school, his teacher would criticize the Bible and speak negatively about Jesus. Kulakov would often raise his hand to speak about God as the Creator. While this made his teacher upset, other students became interested in knowing more about his God. “Evangelism is having the spirit of Christ in our life and passionately and fearlessly proclaiming the

saving power of God through our personal example and the spoken Word,” said Kulakov.

Since his years in public school, Kulakov has been involved in a wide range of evangelistic initiatives, including local evangelism trainings and evangelistic initiatives in preparation for large scale evangelism; he has been the featured evangelist for internationally televised meetings, and has developed teams of pastors in following up with Bible study interests. He launched the

first ever Christian program on government-owned radio and television networks that spanned 12 time zones, and spoke for broadcasts on networks that covered multiple continents.

Kulakov is looking forward to his new role in the Georgia-Cumberland Conference. The Conference territory has many resources and ministries, including Southern Adventist University and It Is Written, along with pastors, office personnel, and educators, who all want to share God’s message of hope. “Better coordination of the evangelism efforts across the Conference will help us to be united in this mission. Sharing experiences, setting coordinated goals, praying for each other, and learning from one another will enhance the work of the Gospel Proclamation in our conference,” said Kulakov.

Reflecting on how God has and continues to use him, Kulakov said “I am humbled by the fact that God has been using me as His messenger to lead thousands of dear souls around the world to the ultimate decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.”

BY NATHAN ZINNER

Peter and Galena Kulakov. Peter is the Conference’s newly appointed assistant to the president and evangelism coordinator.

Students Experience God’s Wonders During Outdoor School Camp

In April of each year, the Gulf States Conference Education Department hosts an outdoor school camp at Camp Alamisco for students in grades 6, 7, and 8. The camp offers a unique opportunity for them to experience nature, and learn topics suited to the outdoors while growing relationships with fellow students from Adventist schools across the Conference.

During the four-day excursion, attendees engaged in four classes, including canoeing, art, reptiles, and model rocketry. They also had the opportunity to get in-

volved in camp life by taking boat rides, experiencing campfires, and making friends with students from other schools.

Over the course of the camp, music was provided by Bass Memorial Academy students, while Todd Ward, camp ranger, presented meaningful and uplifting worship services to help the students to draw closer to God while experiencing His wonders through nature.

BY COMMUNICATION TEAM

School of Evangelism at University Parkway Church Equips Students

Evangelism is the lifeblood of people learning about the Good News of Jesus Christ, but understanding how to engage in evangelism is the result of being discipled in one’s spiritual journey.

During the month of April 2024, the University Parkway Church in Pensacola, Fla., organized the University Parkway School of Evangelism (UPSOE). The training spans four weekends to help students learn how to become effective in their evangelism efforts.

Robert Meneses, UPSOE teacher and local church pastor, explained the purpose of the program was to “help those who desire to be more effective witnesses for Jesus. We look at how the Bible teaches us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.”

During the four weekends, students learned the history, definitions, and biblical basis of the role of evangelism. The teaching also covered practical informa-

participants

tion to help students learn the cycle of evangelism, as well as how to initiate conversations, prepare Bible studies, answer objections, and encourage decisions.

In addition to class time, students were engaged in outside reading, personal devotion, memorizing Scripture, community outreach, and preparing and delivering a Bible study in class.

The benefits of the program for the attendees were having the opportunity to

draw closer to Jesus, knowing Him better, reviving their spiritual lives, learning how to be a more effective witness, and knowing the Bible better.

“It’s an amazing time for us to learn how to be co-laborers with Jesus in these last days to prepare for His soon return,” said Meneses emphatically.

BY COMMUNICATION TEAM

Outdoor school

Evangelism School

Adventurers Encouraged to Share Jesus at Adventurers Family Fun Weekend

After a successful weekend filled with the laughter of Adventurers and their families, Michel Rodriguez, Gulf States Conference youth director, gave an overview of the weekend, sharing, “We are here at Camp Alamisco celebrating our annual Family Fun Weekend where Adventurers from all over our Conference gather together. This year our theme is ‘Moving His Message.’”

“It was a great opportunity for us to share with the little ones the importance of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the globe. We had a guest speaker from Adventist Frontier Missions, and they shared with our kids the importance of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with other kids.”

BY COMMUNICATION TEAM

Camp Meeting Means Families Coming Together

The Gulf State Conference hosted its first of two annual Camp Meetings at Camp Alamisco on April 5-6, 2024.

For generations, Camp Meeting has been a time of fellowship and spiritual renewal — a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the everyday grind of life.

For church member Tanya Bridges, Camp Meeting represents family. Not only does she have family members who attend Camp Meeting each year, many years ago, she found herself at Camp Alamisco at a time when she was returning to the Church after 10 years away from it. Because of this, Camp Meeting represents a place of spiritual connection and revival.

“What I like most about camp is the feeling of family when you’re here. You’re amongst everyone else who is [Adventist] too. You feel like when you

go back to the world, you can face it because of camp,” said Bridges.

This message was reiterated by the main speaker at this year’s Camp Meeting, Roger Hernandez, Southern Union ministerial director. His powerful message focused on Sabbath and detailed how to relate to fellow church members and family in a more powerful way.

The singing group the King’s Heralds ministered to those in attendance as well as through their musical ministry. Brian Danese, Gulf States Conference president, summed it up, saying, “We had a wonderful time here at Camp Alamisco. It was a great spiritual time. Mark your calendars and join us here at Camp Alamisco for Camp Meeting next year, April 4-5, 2025.”

BY COMMUNICATION TEAM

The King’s Heralds quartet

Adventurers Family Fun Weekend attendees

Three Generations from Ridgetop Church Embark on Mission Trip to Kenya

Three generations from the Ridgetop, Tenn., Church traveled together on a short-term mission trip to Kenya. Brenda Dempsey; her daughter, Cassandra Cassidy; and her granddaughter, Cyra Cassidy, joined with 52 other volunteers, including students from Madison Academy in Madison, Tenn., to participate in a Maranatha project in Kajiado, Kenya. Throughout the two-week trip, the family trio helped paint five newly constructed buildings at the Kajiado Adventist School and Rescue Center, and conducted Vacation Bible Schools in the surrounding communities. This initiative holds particular significance as the Kajiado Adventist School provides a safe haven for Maasai girls, offering them refuge from cultural practices such as child marriages and female genital mutilation.

five newly constructed school build

ings and conducted Vacation Bible Schools in the community.

According to Dempsey, who had dreamed of going on mission trips abroad for years, their encounter with the local community was particularly touching. Schoolchildren expressed their appreciation by crafting gifts for each volunteer, including carved animals and personalized bracelets.

“It was amazing seeing firsthand the love and kindness of people,” said Dempsey. “You are left in awe at their enthusiasm to praise God and thank Him for what they have. I felt very blessed, especially as I shared [this experience] with my daughter and granddaughter.”

Cyra Cassidy is also thankful to have shared this experience with her family. She adds that being with them helped her get over her fears.

“It meant a lot to me to have gone with my mom and grandma and some of my closest friends,” said Cyra Cassidy. “I was worried that I wouldn’t know what

to do and worried that I wasn’t going to be able to help, but I feel like [being with my family] helped me step out my comfort zone and try something new.”

As she reflects on the journey alongside her mother and daughter, Cassandra Cassidy emphasizes the importance of taking part of God’s mission as a family. For her, this mission trip was not only an opportunity for service but also a chance to instill in her daughter a desire to serve.

“We role model behaviors that we want our children to adapt to,” said Cassandra Cassidy. “My hope is that [my daughter] will see the importance of mission work … and that she will want to replicate that when she is a mother. My hope is that she feels that reward, and that it helps her to draw closer to Christ in the process.”

BY PAOLA MORA ZEPEDA

Cyra Cassidy (left), Brenda Demsey (second from right), and Cassandra Cassidy (far right), pose with some of the local people at the Kajiado Adventist School and Rescue Center. Volunteers helped paint

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PHOTO

Cassandra Cassidy (left), Cyra Cassidy, and Brenda Dempsey pose together for a photo. Earlier this year, the family trio joined Maranatha for a mission trip to Kenya.

Ridgetop Elementary Immerses Early Childhood Education in Nature

An early childhood teacher at Ridgetop Elementary in Ridgetop, Tenn., shares her personal experiences and reflections on the importance of nature immersion for young children.

As a child I played outside all the time, exploring God’s beautiful world, experiencing unstructured free play, and developing a sense of wonder about the natural world. Nature became a place of calmness during my childhood. I realized that being immersed in nature is something I want other children to cherish and enjoy.

Over the past five years as an early childhood teacher in Ridgetop, I have launched the initiative to immerse my students in nature. We spend every Tuesday

Student smiles as she balances on a log. During their immersive nature classes, students are encouraged to navigate uneven terrains, jump in puddles, climb trees, balance on handmade see-saws, dig in the dirt, and more.

and Thursday morning outside. Students are encouraged to navigate uneven terrains, jump in puddles, climb trees, balance on hand-made see-saws, dig in the dirt, carry large objects, observe creepy crawlies, build shelters, and much more.

Being outside allows children to be children again. Time spent in nature should not be structured. My students are allowed to explore nature freely with a set of rules that are chosen specifically to keep them from harm. Nature Immersion is student-led, which grants the students the opportunity to be themselves, making them feel comfortable, and maximizing their social, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual development.

Throughout the year, my students develop a sense of risk-taking, physical endurance, and curiosity about the world around them. They participate in prob-

lem-solving, critical thinking, team building, negotiating, cooperation, empathy, and compassion. I am blessed to have a Conference and school board that allows me to immerse my students in nature, and give them a child-led educational experience in God’s great, big, beautiful world.

Psalm 8:3-4 states, “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”

Nature is full of wonder. My students are blessed with the same opportunities I had growing up, and it’s a delight to watch them explore God’s beautiful handiwork.

BY MICHELLE WILLER

Students pose for the camera as they appreciate the blooming daffodils. At Ridgetop Elementary, students spend every Tuesday and Thursday outdoors.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE WILLER

Students at Ridgetop Elementary cool off in mud puddles. Over the past five years, the school has launched an initiative to immerse early childhood students in nature.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE WILLER

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE WILLER

Family Redemption Plan Outreach Program Empowers Metro Atlanta Community

Nathanael Gracia, D.Min., South Atlantic Conference family ministries director, led a transformative initiative aimed at empowering families in the metro Atlanta area. The Family Redemption Plan Outreach Program was held at West End Church in Atlanta, Ga. The event blended family education with preaching the Gospel to generate positive change within the community.

The comprehensive program equipped more than 100 families with essential tools and knowledge vital for fostering healthy familial relationships. Through a series of workshops, seminars, sermons, and activities, attendees were immersed in teachings addressing critical aspects of family life, including effective communication, parenting skills, mental health awareness, and child development.

The outreach program went beyond imparting knowledge; it extended a helping hand to those in need. More than 85 families benefited from the distribution of diapers, a gesture that underscored the program’s commitment to addressing tangible needs within the community. The spiritual impact of the initiative was

profound, with numerous individuals finding redemption and more than 30 being baptized into the faith.

Acknowledging the collaborative effort that made the program possible, Gracia expressed gratitude to the church leadership for supporting the

initiative. West End Church played a pivotal role by providing educational materials for children and resources for workshops, while also offering essential items such as food, clothing, and toiletry supplies to families in need.

Patrick Carter, D.Min., senior pastor at West End Church, and his team will be providing continuity of support for the newly baptized members.

The success of the program was amplified by the dedication of seminar presenters Melvin Preston, Curtis Fox, Jean Richard Desir, and Jeffane Bernadin.

Ron Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., president of the Southern Union Conference, was a sponsor of the initiative, and Calvin B. Preston, president of the South Atlantic Conference, was instrumental in facilitating its execution. The collective effort of all involved parties not only empowered individual families, but also fostered a sense of unity and solidarity within the metro Atlanta community.

BY NATHANAEL GRACIA, D.MIN.

Education Department Holds Annual Festival Expo

Students from across the South Atlantic Conference gathered to showcase their skills, creativity, and intellect at the recent Festival Expo held at River Oaks Campground

in Orangeburg, S.C. Kim Gaiter, South Atlantic vice president for education, and her team coordinated the event which was a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of talent within South At-

lantic’s school community. From spellbinding spelling bees to awe-inspiring art exhibitions, exhilarating science and robotics competitions to captivating oratorical contests, the Festival Expo

Nathanael Gracia, D.Min., South Atlantic Conference family ministries director, baptizes one of the 30 individuals who responded to the appeal.

celebrated academic excellence and creative expression.

The Festival Expo kicked off with the Spelling Bee, where students demonstrated their linguistic prowess. Contestants navigated through rounds of intense spelling challenges, showcasing their spelling skills and depth of vocabulary.

The art exhibition featured a dazzling array of artworks created by talented young artists. From intricate paintings to vibrant mixed pieces, the exhibition showcased the creativity, imagination, and artistic talent of the students

In the science and robotics competitions, students put their STEM skills to the test, showcasing innovative projects. Conducting scientific experiments and demonstrations, participants impressed judges and spectators alike with their ingenuity, problem-solving abilities, and passion for science and technology.

The oratorical contest provided a platform for students to share their thoughts through the power of speech. With eloquence, passion, and conviction, contestants delivered compelling speeches that captivated and inspired the audience.

Beyond the competitions and exhibitions, the Festival Expo celebrated diversity, unity, and the school communi-

ty’s collective achievements. It brought together students, teachers, parents, and community members from diverse backgrounds and experiences, united by a shared commitment to academic excellence, creativity, and lifelong learning.

BY SHARLENE THOMAS

New Hope Church Holds Spring Prayer Breakfast

The Women’s Ministries Department at New Hope Church in Ellenwood, Ga., held its annual Spring Prayer Breakfast with the theme,

“Lord, Teach Us to Pray.” The guest speaker was Nadine Collins, Ph.D., who is an international speaker, women’s leadership and empowerment coach,

prayer counselor, and author.

More than 40 women of all ages and stages of life were in attendance. The “Daughters of Hope,” as they were affectionately called, went through the basics of developing an intimate relationship with God through the medium of prayer. Using real-life experiences, Collins shared with the group the benefits of prayer, and how much more effective one’s prayer life can be when all hear and listen to the voice of God.

The attendees were enriched and re-consecrated themselves through prayers offered by Claris Alexander, New Hope Church prayer coordinator, and Trudy-Ann Frazer shared encouraging words and gave the closing prayer.

Pictured are principals and students who won first, second, and third place in the various categories.

Pictured are Nadine Collins, Ph.D. (third from right), with some of the women who attended the prayer breakfast.

Church, Community Garden Healthy for Mind, Body, Soul

Gardening is a healthy way to feed the mind, body, and soul of community residents and church members. Bethel Church members in Orlando, Fla., under the leadership of Dwight Gayle, pastor, dedicated their community garden to the Lord on January 13, 2024. This was a joyous occasion filled with excitement of church members and community residents.

Foods planted in the garden nourish the body with essential vitamins that contribute to its health. Anthony Wilcox started the Bethel Community Garden after Andre Grace, elder, suggested planting a garden on the church property. Wilcox began by planting seeds in two garden boxes, which have grown into a bounty of healthy food items. The garden in front of the church is prominent and easily accessible for harvesting the produce, and for upkeep and maintenance. The water for the garden is do-

nated from the well water of the church neighbors, David and Tina Rausch, who have started a garden.

The garden gives peace of mind because the community services workers do not rely solely on food banks to provide healthy foods. The flourishing garden produces enough fruits and vegetables for community residents and church members to enjoy. During the weekly food distribution, members from the Community Services Department give away collard greens, mustard greens, cabbage, kale, broccoli, herbs, and much more from the garden.

In keeping with the adage, “teach a man to fish, he can eat for a lifetime,” Wilcox teaches gardening lessons to church members and community residents. He encourages starting a garden, even if it means using pots, pans, and a small ground area with at least six hours of sunlight. Several members have start-

ed their gardens. Maintaining the garden encourages exercise, and it helps them build relationships with their neighbors by sharing produce from their gardens. Maurice Scott, elder, testified at the dedication that he gave several heads of cabbage from his garden to his neighbor at Christmas, strengthening a neighboring relationship. Wilcox desires every church member to start a garden so they can have food to eat, share with others, and freeze for future use.

The Bethel Community Garden is a blessing for the mind, body, and soul of community residents and church members who have also started gardens and are reaping the rewards of their harvest. If you don’t have a garden, consider starting one for your health. From planting the seed to preparing each plate, having a garden is one of the best ways to know how the food eaten was grown and handled before it reached your plate. For more information about gardening, contact Bethel Church.

BY CAROL L. SMITH

Anthony Walcott (left), elder, who created and maintains Bethel Church garden, is pictured with Dwight Gayle, pastor.

A partial view of Bethel Church garden

Perrine Church Holds “Grace Encounter” Evangelistic Series

The Perrine Church in Miami, Fla., conducted a two-week evangelistic series under the direction of Eddly B. Benoit, D.Min., pastor, along with Paul Castell, elder and personal ministries director, and the members.

The church took on the mammoth task of evangelizing the community with their “Seven for Heaven” slogan in preparation for the Grace Encounter: Discovering God’s Love Evangelistic Series. From March 2 to 16, 2024, every night except Tuesdays and Thursdays, the two weeks were spent absorbing and listening to God’s Word.

Online and in person, participants were presented with dynamic sermons by Donald C. Francis, a native from Jamaica who currently pastors First Church in Paterson, N.J.

Francis focused on the book of Genesis, drawing parallels from the life of the patriarchs of old such as Adam, Eve, Cain, Abel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Esau, and Rebecca. Francis stated that God sent His Son that He might lift all up to God. God wants His best because He gave His best. He wants a heart that is open to receive Him. He urged all to strive for obe-

dience. He claimed that God is looking for a clean heart that loves Him. “We know nothing until we know the love of God,” said Francis. “God is always reaching out to us because He wants to be close to us.”

Each night the Prayer Ministries Department kept the evangelist in prayer before, during, and after each night’s service. The prayer warriors prayed with the visitors as they entered the church.

The Health Ministries Department educated the congregation on NEWSTART each night. Additionally, the youth as well as the adults benefitted and enjoyed gifts

as a reward for correct answers to quizzes.

After being fed spiritually, the hospitality team fed the attendees with physical food such as sandwiches, fruits, crackers, cheese, and a variety of drinks.

Twenty-eight individuals were baptized. In some cases, complete families gave their lives to Christ.

The series culminated with a concert by Perrine Church praise team.

BY MILLICENT TAYLOR

Baptized members stand with Eddly Benoit (left), D.Min., pastor of Perrine Church in Miami, Fla.

Newly baptized members stand with Eddly Benoit (right), D.Min.

Donald Francis, guest evangelist

Southern Sweeps Medals at SkillsUSA

For the third year in a row, students from Southern Adventist University took home top honors in the SkillsUSA collegiate division state championship in web design and development in April. According to Richard Halterman, Ph.D., dean and professor in the School of Computing, three teams from Southern competed and placed first, second, and third in the Tennessee state championship.

Beginning in September, the students met weekly and put in many hours of practice to improve before the competition. The practices included receiving various prompts and building a web design for desktop and mobile devices with a specific time limit.

Junior computer science majors Sam

Tooley and Caeden Scott were the firstplace winners and qualified for the national championship, which will be held this summer in Atlanta, Ga.; both winners are excited to participate in the national competition this summer.

“We’re going to keep training and practicing and try to improve on what we did at state so we can make an even better design,” said Tooley. He adds that learning how to work and design faster gives them the ability to create and include more features on the sites they design.

Tooley also shared that the skills he’s honing for the competition translate directly as career preparation. “Everybody wants responsive layouts, and I’ve even come across some big websites that are lacking some of the features for mobile

design. So, these are great skills to have for anyone who wants to work as a website developer.”

Second place in the competition went to Noah Norwood, sophomore computer science major, and Mark Moskalenko, sophomore information technology major. In third place were Logan Gardner, sophomore computer science major, and Shinny No, junior computer science major. Computing master’s candidate Dakota Cookenmaster trained and coached the three teams from Southern.

BY ALEXIS

Southern students accept their medals for earning the top three places at the SkillsUSA collegiate division state championship in web design and development.

Students Serve Through Sabbath School

Southern Adventist University encourages students to become contributing members of churches, families, and communities through service and outreach. Earlier this school year, students from Southern experienced the joy of service by helping to conduct Sabbath School classes at Greenbriar Cove, a local senior residence in Collegedale, Tenn.

Emily O’Connor, junior pre-physical therapy major; Sunika Tarusenga, senior health science major; and Hannah Escamilla, junior chemistry major, learned of the opportunity to serve after O’Connor initiated her Christian Service credit there. Moved by her first encounter, she returned regularly and invited Tarusenga and Escamilla to join in. The women as-

sisted in the worship services, shared their talents of piano playing and singing, and prayed with the delighted residents.

“We invited people to come as we walked through the halls. We went through the Sabbath School quarterly lesson and sang hymns, but my favorite part was connecting with the residents,” O’Connor recalls fondly, remembering the excitement of the residents as they arrived. “Many are there after losing their partners and it can be hard, but young people who visit are a ray of light.”

“Being the hands and feet of Jesus made it very rewarding,” said Tarusenga. “It made me think more about being intentional with people. There are lots of ways to make a difference.

Sometimes it’s just being present and showing up for people.”

“It was a really good experience; it helped me get closer to God and balance my routine. I study a lot and want to do well, but this gave me an opportunity to slow down and connect with people, to feel like I was needed. I don’t know how many students struggle with ‘Where am I going?’ and ‘What is my purpose?’ but volunteering helped me to see that there is something beyond me,” said O’Connor.

BY GRACELYN LLOYD, SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY SENIOR COMMUNICATION MAJOR

ANDERSON, JOCELYN DEE, 64, born June 30, 1959, in the Bronx, NY, to Cuban parents Jose Anderson and Deborah Baldo Anderson, passed away April 8, 2024. Jocelyn spent her childhood in New York, Mexico, Panama, and Costa Rica. She returned to the states to attend college at Southern Adventist University and the University of Tennessee, where she completed degrees in public relations and Spanish. She worked for the Southern Union Conference Communication Department leading initiatives to reach both Spanish- and English-speaking audiences. She met her husband Seth Mejias during this time, and they had a beautiful baby girl, Chelsea. The family then moved to Watertown, NY, where Jocelyn worked for Children’s Miracle Network for many years. In 2014, she accepted a call to work for It Is Written in Chattanooga, TN, as associate development director. In this position, she managed overall donor relations. She loved talking with donors throughout the year and greeting them with a smile at the organization’s fall events; she considered them her personal friends. At work, Jocelyn was a friend to all and enjoyed telling funny stories and sharing laughs. She also invested in the lives of her colleagues’ children, giving advice and gifts, and always cheering them on. She constantly pursued her interests and passions with dedication. She spent time preparing and mailing beautiful greeting cards to connect with friends and family. She loved and missed her pug Daisy so much that she collected pug memorabilia throughout the years. In addition, she was known for always wearing leopard print. Most importantly, Jocelyn loved Jesus and thoroughly enjoyed listening to Christian music and watching sermons online.

Jocelyn is survived by her beloved daughter, Chelsea Mejias; five siblings: Daniel Jay Anderson, Darlene Jo Anderson, Kimberly Anderson, Tamara Anderson, and Claudio Anderson; two nieces: Natasha Lynn Anderson and Jasmine Sharp; many other relatives; and friends.

BARROW, COLLEEN M. P., 89, of Collegedale, TN, born March 18, 1934, in Belgrove, WV, died August 11, 2023. She graduated with her nursing degree in 1956 and worked as a nurse for many years. During her nursing career, she was a nursing professor at Southern Adventist University and a favorite professor among the students. She retired from Memorial Hospital after 30 years of service, with the last 10 years spent teaching in the Education Department. Colleen was an amazing seamstress and especially enjoyed making doll clothes for her granddaughters and others. She had a vibrant personality and a great love for people, as she never met a stranger. Colleen was a member of Collegedale Church for 55 years. Survivors include her husband of 66 years, Ron Barrow; two sisters: Sharon Adams and Geneva Geach; three sons: Ronnie (Kitty) Barrow, Brent (Kim) Barrow, and Doug (Beth) Barrow; seven grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents: Marion and Ruby Parsons; son, Gregory Barrow; sister, Claudette Shaver; and brother, Lowell Don Parsons.

ELLIS, ALBERT M., 90, born January 23, 1933, in St. Louis, MO, passed to his rest November 29, 2023, in Asheville, NC.

After graduating from Union College and theological education at Andrews University Seminary, Ellis began his pastoral ministry in the Potomac Conference as a singing evangelist with his wife, Elaine. The couple then pastored churches in the Columbia Union, Atlantic Union, and the Southern Union. Following their retirement in 1998, Ellis served in interim pastoral ministry with the Florida Conference for 20 years.

In addition to his wife, Elaine, he is survived by his son, Gregory (Jeanine) of Orlando, FL; his daughter, Tammy (Bob) Vaughan of Asheville, NC; and three grandsons: Tyler Ellis, Matt (Emily) Vaughan, and Luke Vaughan. The funeral service was held in Asheville on April 27, 2024. His life’s passion centered on dedicated service for our Lord in the specialty of pastoral ministry, touching countless lives with the love of Jesus.

KLINE, PAUL, 86, of Collegedale, TN, born December 1, 1936, in Camden, NJ, died October 24, 2023. He was the son of the late Albert T. Kline and Helen Crosley Kline. He was raised in Bellmawr, NJ, and moved to South Lancaster, MA, to attend Atlantic Union College where he met the love of his life, Dorothy, and raised their four children. After college, he started his career as a teacher and pastor for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, moving into medical sales, and then construction and real estate, which remained his passion.

Paul moved to Collegedale in 2009, but his heart was always in New England. His zest for life was clear in every smile, joke or kind word which was evident in his chronic sense of humor and ability to turn every stranger into a friend. He was passionate about cars (owning 65 in his lifetime), telling stories and reminiscing with friends and family, and exploring back roads looking for a restaurant that he had not yet sampled. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Knowles Kline; sister, Pamela Kline; two half-brothers, Larry and Kenneth Stevenson; four children: Janice Kline, Julie Kline, Tom (Angela) Kline, and Bonnie (Grace Lucero) Kline; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; seven nieces; and nephews.

LAMB, EDWARD L., 86, of Collegedale, TN, born April 5, 1937, in Los Angeles, CA, died July 25, 2023. Ed was a U.S. Army veteran. He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Social Work and the former dean of the School of Social Work at Southern Adventist University.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Katie Ann Towerton; two sisters: Jo (Dick) Walters and Mary (Tom) Ballard; sister-in-law, Gloria (Sherwin) Towerton; son, John Lamb; daughter, LCDR (Ret.) Janet Lamb; two granddaughters; several nieces; and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Percy West and Eva Mildred Chapel; sister, Charlotte Lamb; and in-laws: Wayne Clell and Mable Towerton.

THOMPSON, JR., VERLE B., 77, of Ooltewah, TN, born October 21, 1946, in Hyattsville, MD, died December 17, 2023. Son of the late Verle Burton Thompson Sr. and Muriel Chynoweth, Verle lived in Ooltewah since 1979, attended Southern Adventist University and Middle Tennessee State University, where he received his master’s degree. He was a retired educator at Collegedale Academy with 41 years of service, a member of the Collegedale Church, and an avid golfer. Verle was preceded in death by his father, Verle Thompson Sr.; mother, Muriel Chynoweth; stepmother, Peggy Thompson; and sister, Judith Thompson.

Survivors include his loving wife, Deborah Kelly Thompson; daughter, Tiffany (Kenneth) Britt; son, Verle (Karah) Thompson III; sisters: Ruth Williams and Cynthia (Jeff) Gaver; brother, Barry (Carol) Fowler; four grandchildren; many nieces; and nephews.

obituaries

CARMICHAEL, TERRY R., 70, of Ooltewah, TN, born in Enterprise, AL, died March 5, 2024. He was a graduate of Bass Memorial Academy, class of 1972, and Southern Missionary College, now Southern Adventist University, and Andrews University. While at Southern, Terry met Terri Musselwhite. They were married on May 2, 1976, a few hours after he received his diploma. Terry served as a pastor of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for 40 years filling assignments in the Gulf States, Kansas-Nebraska, and Kentucky-Tennessee conferences. He retired in June 2018 and moved to Ooltewah, TN, where he enjoyed spending time with family. He is survived by his wife, Teresa (better known as Terri); two sisters: Jan (Bruce) and Lisa (Dan); two daughters: Tressa (Ben) and Traci (Derek); and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents: Russell and Faye Carmichael.

DESHOMMES, PIERRE C., 84, of Apison, TN, born June 16, 1939, in Limbe, Haiti, died July 16, 2023. He was a retired church administrator for the Adventist Church. Survivors include wife, Marie J. Deshommes; sister, Jocelyn Prevalus; brotherin-law, Mr. Prevalus; two daughters: Patricia Deshommes and Sandra Patterson; one grandson; two nieces; and one nephew. Pierre was preceded in death by his brother.

ELLIOTT, NORMAN L., 84, of Ootewah, TN died January 11, 2024. He was an optometrist for over 50 years in the Chattanooga area, an active member of the Collegedale Church, and a U.S. Army Veteran. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia Elliott; parents, Leslie Elmo and Gladys Elliott; and brother, Marvin Elliott. He is survived by his wife, Mary Elliott; son, David Elliott; two daughters, Leslie (Scotty) Neal of and Lou Ann Hesler; sister, Helen Krall; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

HENDERSHOT, RALPH M., 84, born Aug. 27, 1939, in Hattiesburg, MS, died December 19, 2023. Ralph earned a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and spent most of his career as guidance counselor. He also served as a volunteer at the Chambliss Center for Children and as a deacon at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists. His hobbies included travel and photography. His love of travel took him to every state except Alaska and to many countries around the world. Ralph is survived by a host of friends and cousins who eagerly await the soon return of their Savior Jesus Christ. He is interred at the Collegedale Memorial Park.

MAUPIN, OWEN D., 70, born October 23, 1952, died August 25, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Debbie Maupin; son, Paul Maupin; daughter-in-law, Holly Fitzsimmons; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel Maupin.

MEYER, REINITA J., 65, of Chattanooga, TN, born October 4, 1957, died August 25, 2023. Even though she was blind most of her life, Reinita did not let this disability keep her from being a wonderful, caring person who lived each day to its fullest, spreading joy to everyone she met. She is survived by her mother, Georgene Meyer; and brother, Ted Meyer. She was preceded in death by her father, Keith Meyer.

MOORE, WILLIAM L., 63, born October 26, 1959, in Cleveland, TN, died October 20, 2023. A Celebration of Life Service was held at the Georgia National Golf and Country Club in McDonough, GA, on October 26, 2023, and a Memorial Service at Collegedale Church on November 5.

TAYLOR, LARENA E., 85, born October 21, 1938, in Portland, OR,

passed away January 24, 2024, in Marietta, GA. She graduated from La Sierra High School and later attended Loma Linda University.

VITAL, JOHANNA R., 93, born March 26, 1930, in Brooklyn, NY, died March 14, 2024, in Chattanooga, TN. Known as Rita, her devotion to the Lord and all things spiritual was foremost in her life and was a longtime member of the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists. Some of her accomplishments include visiting over 50 countries, earning a B.A. degree in elementary education and English, teaching grades 1-6 in a one-room school, earning a master’s degree in public health, leading the Boston Van Ministry and receiving her chaplaincy degree. She is survived by her brother Jerry (Linda) Meyer, son Greg Vital, daughters Leta Myers and Kathy (Doug) Kane, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

WESSELS, ELZA E., 75, died December 7, 2023. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, and lived in the Collegedale, TN, area since 1995. Elza had the gift of hospitality which she shared at the Collegedale Church where she was a member and led women’s ministries and Bible studies at the church. She is survived by her daughter, Delia (Todd) Anderson; son, Gunter Wessels; brother, Ivan (Elvera) Blake; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Izak Frederick of Wessels MD; and daughter, Rhoda Wessels.

YAROSH, JOHN G., born March 3, 1931, in Aliquippa, PA, died August 27, 2023. He served in the U.S. Navy, being promoted to Lieutenant. He subsequently was an instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy in Bethesda, MD. He later transitioned to civilian life working at General Electric and then as a flight systems engineer. In retirement he enjoyed gardening, wood-working, and

time spent with his family. John is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lil L. Yarosh (Vander Hagen); brother, Ted (Lil) Yarosh; two daughters: Lorey (Lester) Haag and Cherylon (Tom Brumfield) Yarosh; two grandsons; one granddaughter; and two great-granddaughters.

ZELENAK II, WILLIAM ROBERT

“Rob,” 54, born May 2, 1969, in Kettering, OH, passed away unexpectedly on March 6, 2024. He attended Spring Valley Academy in Centerville, OH, from 1977 to 1985. When the family moved to Pittsboro, NC, Rob attended the Adventist Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, until the family moved to Greensboro, NC, toward the end of 1985. He attended Tri-City Christian Academy during the 9th and 10th grades and finished high school at Mount Pisgah Academy in Candler, NC. After graduating from the

boarding academy, he returned to Greensboro where he lived the rest of his life. During one year of training in upholstery at GTCC, he was employed at Deep River Dye. He then worked for 4 ½ years at Food Lion before becoming a CNA and serving in elderly home care with Caring Companions. In July 1994, Rob was hired by Graphic Printing Services (now Millenium Print Group), where he worked for nearly 30 years until his passing. He loved God and his church. He served in a variety of offices over the years and was well known for his gift of singing. He would often sing in the choir or with other small singing groups. Most notably, he sang with the Southern Sounds Gospel Quartet, and he also sang at weddings. Rob was very personable, and everyone who knew him loved and respected him. He was always willing to be a help and en-

couragement to others. He is survived by his mother, Sara Joyce Walsh; his father, William Robert Zelenak; his younger brother, Glen Byron Zelenak and with his wife, Allison White Zelenak, and their two children: Kara, and Kaden; two uncles; seven aunts; two stepbrothers; one stepsister; numerous indirectly related family members; and close friends. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Reginald Lindsey and Mary Olivia Stanley; paternal grandparents: Julius and Emma Zelenak; and stepfather, Jack Bailey Walsh. He is still in the hearts of his family and friends and is greatly missed. The Celebration of Life service was held May 4, 2024, at Greensboro Church.

ROLLOVER! GOOD IRA!

an easy way to make a gift from one of your major assets. 2. Be excluded from your gross income: a tax-free rollover. 3. Count towards your required minimum distribution (RMD), which begins at age 73.

You can use up to $53,000 of your RMD to establish a Charitable Gift Annuity with your conference or university. As a donor, you make a qualified distribution from your traditional IRA directly to the conference or university, and in return, you receive a fixed income from the charity for the rest of your life.

your local conference or university to ask about this legacy IRA. Direct gifts to your conference office or university from your IRA can: 1.

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Southern Tidings makes every reasonable effort to screen all advertising, but in no case can the periodical assume responsibility for advertisements appearing in its columns, or for typographical errors

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SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY offers master’s degrees in business, computer science, counseling, education, nursing religion and social work. Flexibility is provided through some online and many on campus programs. Financial aid is available. For more information, call 423-236-2585 or visit www.southern.edu/ graduatestudies. [C]

PARTNER WITH ASAP MINISTRIES in serving the marginalized and reaching the unreached in Southeast Asia with the wholistic gospel. What you do today can change a life for eternity! To learn more visit asapministries.org. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube: asapministries. [C]

WILDWOOD LIFESTYLE CENTER Residential Program. Suffering with a physical or mental health issue? Come away and receive healing from the Great Physician, regaining your health through natural remedies. Join our residential programs, and learn principles of healthful living by calling 706-820-1493 or visit wildwoodhealth.com [C]

CLEAR YOUR MIND, REVITALIZE YOUR BODY! Nature’s Bliss is your place to discover the profound impact of God’s Natural Healing Methods. Nestled in the beautiful Island of Jamaica, very close to Montego Bay Airport, is our unique Lifestyle Center. Call 876 361 7498. (7-11)

A.W. SPALDING ALUMNI & FORMER STAFF: Join us for a nostalgic tour of our old school building before we move to our new facility. Reminisce, reconnect, and

celebrate memories! Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Visit collegedaleacademy.com/spaldingfarewell for more details. [7-8]

PRAYER NEEDS Facing a challenge? Have a concern? At LifeTalk Radio we believe in prayer and want to pray for you. Whatever your problem, God is bigger. Share your prayer needs at: LifeTalk.net/prayer. Live with hope! Listen at LifeTalk.net. [7]

eventscalendar

Carolina

Master Guide Camporee – July 19-21. TBA.

Bike For Life to Gillette, WY –July 22-Aug. 4.

International Pathfinder Camporee – Aug. 5-11. Gillett, WY. VLP Training Weekend – Aug. 16-19. NPR.

Adventurer Leadership Council – Aug. 23-25. NPR.

Florida

CAROLINA FLORIDA

FREE Webinar – Aug. 27. Florida Conference Development and Planned Giving Department is inviting you to set time to participate in a FREE webinar: Creative Investments and PhilanthropySURF, RCATS, DAF’S and more. To receive the link to this webinar or for a FREE estate planning consultation, send an email to: planned.giving@floridaconference.com; or call 407-618-0246. Camp Kulaqua’s Family Camp – Aug. 30-Sept. 2. Come back to nature and join us for a weekend of fun, friends, family, and fellowship! We have intentional programs and activities for ALL AGES, so you get to enjoy it all without planning it all.

Georgia-Cumberland

GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND

Teen Camp – July 7-14. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp. Family Camp – July 16-21. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp.

Father/Son Rite of Passage Backpacking Trip – July 21-28. Big Sandy Trailhead, Wind River Range, WY.

Picture Perfect: Intro to Photography for Churches – Aug. 22. Online. Southern Deaf Camp Meeting –

Aug. 29-Sept. 2. Cohutta Springs Conference Center.

Chattanooga Area Men’s Prayer Breakfast – Sept. 1. Location TBD. Hispanic Camp Meeting – Sept. 6-8. Cohutta Springs Conference Center.

Adventurers’ Leadership Training – Sept. 13-15. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp.

Built for Freedom Men’s Summit – Sept. 13-15. Cohutta Springs Conference Center.

Pathfinder Leadership Training – Sept. 20-22. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp.

Northeast Tennessee Camp Meeting – Sept. 20-21. The Oaks Retreat Center.

Adventist Heritage Tour – Sept. 24-Oct. 3. New England.

Drill Instructor Training – Sept. 27-29. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp.

Please check our website for the latest information, www.gccsda. com.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

Southern Adventist University

WELLkids – July 8-12 and 15-19. Keep your youngsters moving and exploring the great outdoors this summer. The “WELLkids in the Wild” day-camp program offers weeklong sessions of outdoor adventures for ages 10-16, including rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, ropes course, caving, rafting, and more. For more information or to register, visit southern.edu/wellkids.

SmartStart Begins – July 29. New students can earn three credit hours for free during the summer (a savings of more than $2,490). To learn more, visit southern.edu/ smartstart.

Fall Classes Begin – Aug. 26. The University offers a variety of associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, some of which can be earned entirely online. For more information, visit southern. edu or call 1-800-SOUTHERN.

SUNSET

ATLANTA, GA

CHARLESTON, SC

CHARLOTTE, NC

COLLEGEDALE, TN

HUNTSVILLE, AL

JACKSON, MS

LOUISVILLE, KY

MEMPHIS, TN

MIAMI, FL

MONTGOMERY, AL

NASHVILLE, TN

ORLANDO, FL

TAMPA, FL

WILMINGTON, NC

Southern Union Conference

P.O. Box 923868

Peachtree Corners, GA 30010

SEE FOR Yourself

Students are extraordinarily friendly, professors are exceptionally caring, and the whole campus is focused on Christ.

But don’t just trust our word. Arrange your own free visit to Southern’s campus, or join one of our special events

Upcoming FREE* PreviewSouthern events:

November 7-8, 2024

February 17, 2025

March 27-28, 2025

*Includes free meals and lodging for students interested in attending Southern. Student families are encouraged to visit, too. Call 1.800.SOUTHERN or go to southern.edu/visit.