14 Southwestern Happenings 15 Southwestern Union 18 Arkansas-Louisiana Conference
23 Oklahoma Conference
28 Southwest Region Conference 34 Texas Conference
38 Texico Conference
43 Southwestern Adventist University 45 AdventHealth
Editor’s Note
—THE TIME IS NOW—
"The Time is Now" is more than merely a theme for the upcoming Southwestern Union Constituency Session. It is an observation of the signs around us.
Weather is becoming more extreme and, far too often, traumatic. Rapid acceleration of technology is leading to both increased knowledge and confusion between truth and deception. And society around us seems to be falling apart.
So how do we respond? Is it time to run to the hills, leaving our friends and neighbors behind? No. Now is the time for our greatest work. And that is the reason for the second half of the constituency theme, “Answering With Action.”
We're told that many will come to the truth just before the closing scenes of earth’s history. Already we're seeing the first fruits. But these fruits aren't being harvested without laborers. Take Benny, for example. (You can find his story on page 9.) First, his family planted a seed. Then people who would never meet Benny created radio programs and online videos that provided the watering. Finally, Pastor Mateo Ramirez had the blessing of reaping what others had sown and tended. Countless people responding to the Holy Spirit’s call to action made an eternal impact on Benny and his family. What about you–what is your role in preparing hearts for the kingdom?
March | April 2026
Vol. 125, No. 02
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OFFICIAL
Lori Futcher
The Record is published bimonthly for a total of six issues per year and is an official publication of the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
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A Call to Prayer for Constituency Session
The 32nd Southwestern Union Conference Constituency Session will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. Once every five years, this delegation meets to receive reports, review the constitution and bylaws and elect leadership and committee members. Decisions made during such meetings carry significant implications.
Whenever we gather to conduct the business of God’s Church, we step onto holy ground. Such meetings may appear administrative in nature, but they are, in reality, sacred spaces where God’s will is to be discerned. For this reason, prayer must never be merely a formality—it must be our foundation. Our meetings should be bathed in prayer, for without the presence of God, His work cannot truly succeed.
The early Church understood this deeply. Scripture records in Acts 1:14, “They all joined together constantly in prayer.” Before decisions were made, before leadership roles were filled, God’s people first sought His presence. Prayer prepared their hearts and aligned their minds with heaven, making them ready for the important work.
Yet prayer isn't just something we offer once the meeting begins. There
is a quieter, more personal work that must take place beforehand. Each of us is invited to come before God in humility, allowing Him to search our hearts and examine our motives.
Ellen G. White counseled, “Before our brethren assemble in council or board meetings, each one should present himself before God, carefully searching the heart and critically examining the motives,” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 257).
Before we ever enter the meeting room, before we even leave our homes, we can ask God to sanctify our thoughts, soften our spirits and prepare us for His business.
My prayer is that the Holy Spirit would prepare my heart to reflect Christ, to nurture unity, to remain teachable and to lay aside personal agendas so that God’s will may be clearly heard and obeyed.
In preparation for the constituency session, may we submit our wills to God’s will and our ways to God’s way. May we share the sentiments of the old hymn, “Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Thou art the potter, I am the clay. Mold me and make me after Thy will, while I am waiting, yielded and still.”
Jesus reminds us in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Doing God’s work without abiding in Christ leaves us fruitless. Without Him, our meetings become empty routines and our discussions mere human opinions.
The work of God’s kingdom cannot advance without God Himself. But when we remain connected to Him, His life flows through us and His purposes are accomplished through us.
By Stephen Brooks
Executive Secretary
A Meaningful Voice?
How do we—the local church membership—help make ideas and goals come to fruition beyond our own congregation? Are we left at the mercy of our administrators, or do we carry a meaningful influence and voice as well?
To answer this question, let’s first look at how our Church is structured.
Because we live in a world full of topdown hierarchies—from company CEOs and presidents to religious authorities like the Pope—our understanding of leadership in the Adventist Church is often skewed to understand our Church as a similar top-down model. But as George Knight, a prolific author and former professor at the Theological Seminary at Andrews University, explained during a 2020 interview I
conducted for the podcast series How the Church Works, “We do not have a presidential system ... but more and more, we act as if it is. And therefore, whether it’s the local conference, the union conference or the General Conference, we have a temptation to make it into a presidential system where the president sets the agenda.”
The Adventist Church structure can most accurately be described as interlocking and interdependent.
The local church is the foundation of the Adventist Church. It is where membership is held, where members vote on church business and leadership and where baptism and membership matters are decided. Next is the local conference, made up of groups of
churches within a defined territory, usually a state or region. A group of conferences makes up a union, which supports the conferences in their territory and oversees Adventist universities and other special entities. The final layer is the General Conference, the Adventist Church’s global leadership body. It is split into 13 divisions that oversee different parts of the world. The divisions aren’t technically their own layer but are a working part of the General Conference.
The General Conference Session, like the one that took place in St. Louis last summer, is a decision-making event occurring every five years. This is when important decisions are made that affect the global Church. Likewise,
a constituency session, such as the one being held for the Southwestern Union, makes decisions that affect the membership within a conference or union’s territory.
same nominating committee process to elect the General Conference president and all positions in between.”
Committees and constituency sessions allow for a certain amount of accountability and democracy that a top-down system wouldn’t.
So, how can the average member participate in creating change in a large global Church?
model, be able to take the Adventist Church in their own direction. Changes to Church policy can only be made through constituency sessions at the appropriate organizational level, a process designed to protect the Church from hasty decisions that could cause lasting harm.
e local church is the foundation of the Adventist Church.
“If you understand how things are at the local church level, it’s almost identical at every other level of the Church,” said G. Alex Bryant, North American Division (NAD) president. For example, we use a nominating committee process to elect a local church deacon, a local church usher and a local church youth leader. We use the exact
According to Bryant, change starts at your local church. “What I encourage young people to do is to try to get involved,” he said. “When you get to the division level, there are 1.2 million people in the North American Division. So you’re one of 1.2 million, and the chances of getting involved in the vision and process are less likely. … At your local church level, you may be one person among 200 or 300 people, but the process is the same, and it’s a great learning opportunity on how the Church operates. Once you get that experience, or you sit on that board with a pastor or local conference president, they may be looking for someone— because people are saying, ‘We need to get young people involved,’ at every level of the Church! So the easiest place to get involved is the place that’s closest to you, whether it’s at the local church or the local conference.”
In addition to getting involved at the local level, each of us can have a voice by connecting with our elected delegates at the conference, union and division levels. Build relationships and participate in conversations to help those representatives make decisions.
Our model of governance offers a level of resistance to autocratic and erratic leaders that might, in another
Though the process is slow, even the policies that shape Church organizations can be changed through our voting process if given enough time and interest. Kyoshin Ahn, NAD undersecretary, explained a little about how policy works to benefit us.
“A recommendation for a new policy or the revision of an existing policy comes to us from every direction,” said Ahn. “It comes from local conferences or unions or various denominational entities. The reason I’m saying that, is that policy is dynamic. It is not fixed, although it is fixed in writing—it is dynamic and can be amended.”
Today, with more people operating across the globe, the Adventist Church’s decisions must be made with increasing care for the massive spectrum of humanity they serve. Policies, leadership and decision-making bodies are a vital part of that process, and they remain an important way a local church member can participate in shaping the Seventh-day Adventist Church for future generations. a
By Kaleb Eisele. Eisele is digital content specialist for the Oregon Conference. A full version of this article appeared in the North Pacific Union Gleaner, and was originally adapted from episode 3 of How the Church Works, a podcast written and produced by Heather Moor, Nina Vallado and Kaleb Eisele, and sponsored by the Adventist Learning Community. To listen to the full episode, hear interviews with the administrators quoted in this article or learn more about the podcast, visit HowTheChurchWorks.com.
e Camp that Didn’t Quit
The year was 1978: a loaf of bread cost 33 cents, a gallon of gas 62 cents, the average home $48,000. And nestled in the piney woods of East Texas, a summer camp was selling for $450,000.
W. C. Jones, then-president of the Southwest Region Conference, worked tirelessly to find a way to purchase the camp from the Texas Conference. Money trickled in. Then a large sum from an estate plan sealed the deal.
“Our promise is to keep the doors of Lone Star Camp [open] to all groups of the Southwestern Union,” Jones wrote in the September 21, 1978 Record
But by 2012, the camp was in decline and in danger of being closed.
The Call
Bob Allen wanted more. Not more money. No, his construction businesses provided his family with a comfortable life. What Bob wanted was more time to serve the Lord.
He served as a deacon and mowed the church lawn, but his long work hours kept him from serving as fully as he desired. So he started praying, “God, I want to work more for You.”
Then came an unexpected phone call. “Are you interested in a job?”
The call was right, but the timing felt wrong. Allen’s wife, Kristina, was finishing a nursing degree. Moving would be complicated. He could not accept.
Time passed. Kristina finished her studies. Allen wondered if the position was still open. “Certainly, they’ve found someone by now,” he commented.
That very day, Allen received another phone call letting him know the camp was still looking into hiring two people. This time, Allen submitted his resume.
Though Allen hadn’t attended summer camp growing up, his childhood experience provided him with the skill conference leaders were looking for.
From the age of 10 Allen had worked construction with his father.
“If I wasn’t in school, I was at work,” Allen said. These early experiences taught him a work ethic that would prepare him for his next challenge.
The Work Begins
Allen began as assistant camp manager alongside newly appointed camp manager Hector Perez.
Before Allen and Perez arrived, the water and septic systems had fallen out of compliance, and years’ worth of fines had accumulated. The camp was at risk of being shut down. Shortly after Allen came on board, state regulators scheduled an inspection.
The inspector wasn't pleased when she arrived. “I’m so happy you’re here because I’ve done as much as I can,” Allen greeted her. Her attitude toward the camp began to change. In the end, she was so happy with the work the camp had done that she petitioned for the removal of all outstanding fines.
With the most critical systems addressed, attention shifted to what could be improved on a small budget. That's when Allen learned about World Vision. A World Vision staff member had been bringing inner-city children to Lone Star for years. As Allen talked
with the staff member, he learned that World Vision received large quantities of surplus building materials from retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Much of it was routed to disaster response, but camps qualified as well.
When materials became available, Allen drove to pick them up. Pallets of tile, siding and shingles made their way back to East Texas. At a time when the camp’s budget left little room for new construction, these materials helped projects moved forward.
Stepping In
When Perez moved on, Allen became camp manager. It was during this transition that Gary Blanchard first entered the conversation.
Blanchard already understood camp life. His first summer at camp, he says, was at 6 months old. Camp was part of the rhythm of his childhood. He attended Camp Cherokee in New York and later Lake Whitney Ranch in Texas. As a young adult, he spent five summers on staff at Camp Lawroweld in Maine, working waterfront, caring for horses and eventually serving as program director.
But when Blanchard was invited to join the staff at Lone Star, the timing wasn't right. His wife was in school.
“We’re stuck here for the next three to four years,” he told Allen.
Two years later, Blanchard received another phone call. “Would you guys
“Our profits aren’t money. Our profits are souls.”
- Bob Allen
be interested once your wife graduates?” Allen asked.
“Sign me up!” Blanchard exclaimed. Before taking the position, Blanchard spent a couple months working at the camp as a contractor, learning just how much work was involved.
“It was a lot of work,” Blanchard commented. “It was a lot of hours. And I absolutely loved it!”
Growth Without Debt
The scale of projects began to change. A 60-room lodge—complete with cafeteria—was proposed, a project estimated to cost between $6 and $10 million. The vision was appealing, but the price tag wasn’t.
Instead, Allen proposed a different approach: smaller lodges, built one at a time, each fully paid for before construction began. The design focused on comfort without excess—private rooms, modern amenities and views that emphasized the surrounding landscape. This approach has produced 50 rooms for a fraction of the cost of a single large lodge, allowing growth without debt.
As housing expanded, meeting space followed. The chapel became one of the most carefully considered projects. Allen repeatedly staked out the footprint, adjusting the orientation to ensure the view through the windows framed the lake just right. The final design included expansive glass, intentionally drawing eyes outward.
“A chapel,” Allen explained, “should point you back to creation.”
Recent years have brought a different pace. Projects overlap. Lodges continue to be added. Outdoor spaces—amphitheater seating, fire pits, hexagon gathering areas—transform underused areas. Attractions provide outdoor enjoyment: a splash pad, rock walls, extreme air jumpers and an archery center that doubles as a pavilion.
The result is a camp that rarely slows down. Groups book a year in advance. Others are turned away simply because there is no space left. What was once a
The Impact
The impact of the work is seen not only in the increased number of visitors but in the lives that are changed.
Allen remembers one camper who nearly wasn’t accepted. The boy had some challenges, and once camp began, he kept his distance, appearing guarded and closed off.
When the boy would call out to Allen, the instinct was to keep moving. There was always something else that needed attention. But instead of ignoring him, Allen answered back. After a while, the boy started talking.
That’s when Allen told him what he often tells kids who arrive with their guard up. “Camp is a special place,” Allen said. “This is a safe place. Here you can be as happy as you want, and you don’t have to look tough.”
The change was steady and unmistakable. The boy relaxed. The walls came down. Watching that progression, Allen said, was amazing.
facility used only a few months a year now operates year-round. Increasingly, the camp is able to host more than one group at a time.
The work is never finished. It's no longer about survival. It's about stewardship, ensuring the camp can serve as many ministries as possible.
Moments like that are not exceptions—they are the point. “Every interaction we have,” Allen said, “could be a game-changer.”
Nearly five decades after W. C. Jones worked to secure the property, Lone Star Camp is flourishing. Its survival has depended not on a single moment, but on persistence—on ensuring that Lone Star remained a place where ministry could still happen, year after year, camper after camper.
The camp didn’t quit. a
By
Lori Futcher. Futcher is the Record editor and associate communication director at the Southwestern Union. Bob Allen and Gary Blanchard work for the Southwest Region Conference.
Benny Tullia had spent most of his life on an oil rig in the periphery of machinery that never rested, waves that could crush steel and the thick black crude that runs the world.
But now, listening to the cicadas humming through the muggy summer evening air, Benny felt the world changing in ways no gauge or forecast could predict. “Back in the 70s,” he commented to Suzanne, his wife of 45 years, “the fellas under the bridge mostly just needed a job or a hot meal. They had stories and fight in them. But now?” He paused. “The folks I see look hollow.” It seemed that every corner held people—eyes glazed, talking to ghosts, addicted and desperate.
headlines stranger, Benny began to wonder if maybe the Church was right.
The world felt turbulent, and Benny found himself searching for something solid to hold onto.
In the car, he tuned the radio to Christian programs, listening passively. As summer ended, Benny searched online for videos about Daniel’s visions and timelines. He refamiliarized himself with charts of beasts and kingdoms. By October, he'd become fully convinced that the Sabbath is a sign and a seal.
Suzanne nodded, keeping busy as her husband reminisced. There was plenty to do. Her younger brother, Grieg, who suffered memory loss following a heart attack, needed round-the-clock care, and their granddaughter lived with them too.
On quiet evenings like this, Benny felt a pressure he couldn’t name but also couldn't ignore.
Benny grew up in a Seventh-day Adventist church on the bayou, listening to hymns float through open windows and pastors talk about prophecy and Jesus' return. As a boy, he believed. As a teenager, he rebelled. Quiting high school early, he joined the Navy, church fading into memory.
A FAITH UNEARTHED
Something in his heart cracked open as though he’d drilled through layers of doubt. One Friday, he announced, “I’ve decided to be baptized, so I’m going to church tomorrow.”
On Sabbath morning, Suzanne, Grieg and Benny sat in the pews of the New Iberia Seventh-day Adventist Church. After the service, Benny approached the pastor, Mateo Ramirez.
Benny’s eyes and so she agreed.
Benny drove Suzanne and Grieg to the seminar. Benny soaked in the sermons, Suzanne listened and Grieg was content to be there.
When Benny texted his siblings to announce his upcoming baptism, replies came one after another: “It’s about time!” “Wouldn’t miss it!” Benny knew his family had been praying for him. True to tradition, the family volunteered dishes for a Sabbath potluck, and soon there was enough food planned to feed 30 family members plus the church congregation.
Then, after one of the services, Suzanne said that she and Grieg also desired to be baptized.
On November 8, 2025, 30 family members joined the congregation. The Tullias, Sweenas and Leaches had come from surrounding communities and other states. One by one, Benny, Suzanne and Grieg were lowered beneath the watery grave.
Rig life was filled with pressure gauges, drills and deadlines. A man was measured by his job performance, not by what he believed. And yet, certain questions stayed lodged in his mind. What if what the Bible says about the end times is true?
At first, the thoughts seemed like science fiction wrapped in religion. But as the world grew darker and the
“I grew up a Seventh-day Adventist," he told Ramirez. "My parents were treasurers, and my seven siblings were baptized. I never made that commitment, but I’ve been studying, and I’d like to be baptized.”
Stunned, Ramirez said, “Let’s meet. When can I visit?”
During their visit, Ramirez invited the family to the church’s upcoming evangelistic meetings. Suzanne was skeptical. She'd grown up in a home split between Catholic and Methodist faiths. End-times preaching was not exactly her comfort zone, but she saw the light in
It had taken a lifetime, but Benny knew he had finally struck a well that would never run dry. a
By Victoria Martinez. Martinez is a writer from New Mexico.
Benny, Suzanne and Grieg are members of the New Iberia Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Arkansas-Louisianna Conference.
Faith Rooted in Creation
By Endi Stojanovic, Assistant Professor, Department of Religion, Southwestern Adventist University
Two-thirds of Americans believe that God should be credited with creating humankind—but two-thirds of Americans also reject creationism.
A recent Gallup poll shows that just over one-third of Americans believe that God created the world and humans in the recent past (less than 10,000 years ago). About onethird believe that God was involved in
creation, particularly in the origin of humans, but that life evolved over long ages. Just under one-third believe that God was not involved at all in creation and that the theory of evolution accurately describes the origins of life. The key lies in the middle third of respondents. Their view—that God guided human origins within an evolutionary process—helps explain how belief in God as Creator can remain a majority position, even as creationism itself fails to command majority support.
This discrepancy of thought ought to drive us to seek strong intellectual answers that affirm Scripture’s teaching on creation. That is, the issue is not merely what Scripture says about the what and how of creation, but what Scripture reveals about why creation is essential within the broader biblical worldview.
For example, Genesis 1 tells us that God spoke and things that did not exist came into existence. Only later in Scripture do we find that one of the primary reasons God is worthy of worship is because He made all that is. (See Psalm 86:9 and Nehemiah 9:6.) The first angel’s message clearly reveals this: “Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water,” Revelation 14:7.
An artist is honored for the work they create, not for the work of another. In the same way, God is worthy of honor because He made all things. This is why God is often depicted in Scripture as astonished that humans would worship “gods” they themselves have created. (See Exodus 32:8; Isaiah 2:8.)
If the God of Scripture used long ages, randomness and vast amounts of death to produce the complexity of life we observe today, then He could hardly be called all-powerful and all-knowing. After all, such a process would suggest trial and error rather than purposeful design. If this was how God created, then rather than praising God’s goodness, mercy and love, we might instead be justified in questioning His character. The notion of creation over long ages also erodes the rationale for observing the Sabbath. Scripture is clear that we rest every seventh day because God did so at the beginning. (See Exodus 20:8-11.) This is why affirming a literal, seven-day, twenty-four-hour, consecutive creation is invaluable.
Perhaps the greatest reason—at least in my view—to affirm the biblical
creation account is that rejecting it undermines the foundation upon which salvation rests. If death existed before the Fall (See Genesis 3.), then death would not be the result of sin—and it becomes unclear what Christ’s death on the cross is actually saving us from. And perhaps more importantly, what is He saving us to? More pain, misery and death after the resurrection?
Many who challenge the biblical view of creation fail to recognize this essential point: God created everything good and perfect in the beginning, but an enemy entered and distorted God’s perfect order. God did not create this world in its current condition, though He continues to sustain it for a time. Ultimately, God will bring this world to an end and re-create it as it was in the beginning, when “God will wipe every tear from their eyes. “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away,” Revelation 21:4. a
Scan this QR code to view the video, This We Believe: Creation.
How to Spot Diabetes in Your Child
By AdventHealth
Even in health-conscious homes, conditions like childhood diabetes can go unrecognized in their early stages. Understanding the basic signs can help parents act early and seek care before complications develop.
Your child’s body uses glucose as its main source of fuel to stay healthy and keep running.
Insulin is like a bridge that helps glucose cross from the bloodstream into cells. But when your child has diabetes, the body either can’t make insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the insulin doesn’t work as it should (Type 2 diabetes).
When there’s no “bridge,” glucose can’t enter cells normally, which causes blood sugar levels to become too high. Too much sugar in the blood can make your child sick if they don’t get treatment.
Recognizing the early symptoms of diabetes in children can help parents identify warning signs and seek medical assistance before serious complications develop. Because your child may not always be able to explain how they feel and early symptoms can look like normal childhood changes, it’s vital to be aware of symptoms.
EARLY SYMPTOMS
Blurred vision: High blood sugar can cause brief changes in vision. Extreme thirst: When your child’s blood sugar is high, it causes their body to lose fluids. The result is dehydration. So, one of the earliest signs of diabetes may be your child constantly asking for something to drink or still seeming to be thirsty after getting what would normally be enough fluid.
Fatigue and low energy: Children with diabetes may struggle to stay focused or be more tired, weak or less interested in play and school activities than normal.
Frequent urination: Because the body tries to remove extra sugar through urine, children with diabetes often need to urinate more frequently. They may wake up at night to use the bathroom or wet the bed, even if they’re already toilet-trained.
Increased hunger: If glucose isn’t reaching the cells that need energy, your child may feel hungry all the time, even if they’ve just eaten.
Unexplained weight loss: If your child’s body starts breaking down fat
and muscle for energy, they can lose weight even if they’re eating more. Some symptoms may not be as common but can signal more serious problems and shouldn’t be ignored. They may be signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which means your child needs care right away.
SERIOUS SYMPTOMS
Type 1 diabetes is commonly diagnosed in younger children but can occur at any age.
• Cuts/bruises that heal slowly
• Frequent infections, such as skin or yeast infections
• Fruity-smelling breath
• Mood changes, including irritability or sudden behavior changes
• Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain
Although there’s some overlap in symptoms, there are differences between the two types of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes often advances quickly. Symptoms may appear over several days or weeks, and children can become very sick within a short time.
instincts and seek
Type 2 diabetes is more common in older children and teens and usually progresses more slowly. This makes it harder to notice at first. One common sign, though, is the development of dark patches of skin around their neck or armpits, since this is directly linked to insulin resistance. If you notice any of these symptoms, trust your instincts and seek medical care right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a life-changing difference, helping your child stay healthy and active while preventing serious complications. Diabetes can feel overwhelming at first, but with proper care, education and support, children with diabetes can thrive. a
Faith Seeping Through Our Pores
By Tony Anobile, Southwestern Union Vice President for Church Ministries
“I wish we were so in tune with Jesus that He would exude through our pores.” My wife, Lisa, sat with her legs curled up on our black cushy couch as she spoke. It was evening worship in the Anobile household, and our five kids sat listening as Lisa described what it would be like to live lives so filled with Jesus that everything we said and everything we did would point to Him.
I’ve often thought about Lisa’s comment and found myself evaluating my words and actions to see if I was exuding Christ through my pores. If I’m being honest, I have failed many times. But my resolve is still the same, to know Christ and Him crucified.
In my opinion, the enemy has succeeded in causing many Christians to neglect their relationship with Christ by keeping us so busy that we fail to make time for the Creator. How many of us have truly resolved to know nothing except Christ and Him crucified? How different would this world be if our main goal was to share Jesus with everyone we meet so that He could come back and we could go home?
years. Yet once Jesus returned to heaven, their single focus was to share the good news of the Gospel with everyone they encountered so that Jesus could return and they could be reunited with Him, not only as their friend, but as their Savior and King.
Jesus’ physical
The disciples may have had an advantage in that they were able to live in Jesus’ physical presence for more than three
go home—your real home? A place where there will be no more where phone calls will never again bring bad news and miles will no people we love. A place where death
rose again. It’s no wonder Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:2 that the mattered
Do you want Jesus to come back? Do you want to go home—your real home? A place where there will be no more pain, no more sorrow. A place where phone calls will never again bring bad news and miles will no longer separate us from the people we love. A place where death will no longer exist. All of this is possible because Jesus died and rose again. It’s no wonder Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:2 that the only thing that truly mattered was knowing Jesus and Him crucified. So what should we do? That is a great question. Let’s begin by considering Jesus’ own words in Acts 1:8: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
“FOR I RESOLVED TO KNOW NOTHING WHILE I WAS WITH YOU EXCEPT JESUS CHRIST AND HIM CRUCIFIED,” 1 CORINTHIANS 2:2
For the remainder of 2026, this column will explore the four areas Jesus mentioned. The central point, however, is this: We are called to be His witnesses. Are you being a witness for Jesus? Is He your friend, Savior and King? Are you a sponge or a honeycomb?
A sponge soaks everything in. It absorbs and holds. A honeycomb, on the other hand, can’t help but exude what’s inside it. It overflows. It pours out. The difference is telling. One merely
collects; the other gives. One retains what it receives; the other releases it naturally.
I agree with my wife. I want to be so saturated with Jesus that He pours out of my pores. When we have that kind of relationship with Him, not only will we hasten His return, but as we wait for His coming, life will truly be worth living. a
How Our Schools Keep Getting Better
By Carol Campbell, Ph.D., Southwestern Union Vice President for Education
Excellence in Adventist education doesn’t happen by accident. It’s cultivated through thoughtful planning, reflection and a commitment to continual growth. As you likely picked up on when you read the articles about Design Thinking in the January/February issue of the Record , Southwestern Union schools are on a journey to excellence. We're achieving this by building a culture that encourages continual planned improvement. The use of a Continuous School Improvement (CSI) cycle helps our schools meet their goals for excellence.
The CSI cycle is a research-based tool that uses data analysis to drive staff engagement for improvement. In our schools, this cycle is divided into fi ve phases.
Phase 1:
Where are we now?
Central to the CSI process is the continuous collection and analysis of data. Multiple measures of data—demographic, perception (surveys), student learning and program/process—are used at every phase of the CSI cycle.
Data analysis gives schools a clearer picture of how their work is affecting student achievement. By examining each data category, schools can identify strengths, challenges and implications. Looking at those implications together helps schools understand why they are getting current results and pinpoint the programs and processes that need attention to achieve better outcomes.
Phase 2:
Where do we want to be?
In this phase of the CSI cycle, staff collaborate to review or create a shared mission and vision.
The mission defines the fundamental purpose of Adventist education, describing why a school exists. It doesn’t change; it endures through time. The language may be adjusted, however, to fit the context.
The vision, which is the mission put into action, defines the desired future plan for Adventist education as it relates to teaching and learning. A vision is subject to the context of the times, so it is frequently reviewed and revised based on data analysis and research on best practices.
Phase 3:
How did we get to where we are?
After data is analyzed and a vision is created, a school can determine the gaps. Gaps are the difference between where the school is (data) and where it wants to be (vision). To eliminate a gap, it’s important to understand the underlying reasons the gap exists.
A problem-solving cycle is used to analyze contributing causes. The cycle engages all stakeholders in thinking through a gap and understanding its origins before jumping to solutions.
Phase 4:
How do we get to where we want to be?
Based on data analysis, school vision and problem-solving, staff collaborate to develop and implement a Continuous School Improvement (CSI) plan. The purpose of the CSI plan is to transform the school’s vision of excellence into strategic goals and action steps that introduce change related to areas of need. Highly effective CSI plans indicate how goals will be implemented, monitored and evaluated.
Phase 5:
Are we making a difference?
Ongoing evaluation assesses the alignment to the vision and the results the school is achieving.
Within the context of Continuous School Improvement, the focus is on internal assessment of programs and processes designed to support implementation of the CSI plan. Metrics are developed for each CSI goal to measure whether the school is achieving intended results.
For Adventist families, this ongoing work means schools are not standing still. They are regularly examining how well they are serving students, strengthening what works and addressing areas that need growth. Through this commitment to continual improvement and accountability, Adventist schools strive to provide an environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually and socially. a
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SOUTHWESTERN UNION
Constituency Session
Keene, Tex. SouthwesternAdventist.org
Rigacci to Retire After Decades of Service
BURLESON, TEX. – A young Osvaldo Rigacci was standing at the front of a high school classroom in Argentina, filling in for an absent teacher, when the students began asking big, existential questions. Rigacci responded with Scripture, drawing from what he had been taught growing up. Then
a few of the students—teenagers he had known for years—asked something that stopped him short: If he truly believed these things, why wasn’t he living like a believer?
When Rigacci’s father had died five years earlier, Rigacci had been thrust into adult responsibilities, drifting from the values he had grown up with. But the question the students asked him that day put him on a journey that would ultimately lead to a life of service for Christ.
After nearly 44 years of denominational service, Osvaldo Rigacci, vice president for multicultural ministries at the Southwestern Union will be retiring at the union’s constituency session on April 26. Throughout his career, Rigacci has emphasized church planting, helping establish new congregations in every district he pastored. He also played a key role in developing Mi Conexión Bíblica (My Bible Connections), a
Bible-study program for children that is currently in production. Rigacci’s ministry has been marked by an emphasis on mentoring—intentionally investing time in teaching and developing others for leadership within the church.
Rigacci and his wife of 44 years, Monica, have two adult children, Fernando (married to Brittany) and Aniella (married to Marland), and six grandchildren—two sets of triplets. In retirement, he says that he plans to continue preaching, evangelizing, translating and writing, including completing a devotional project inspired by his late uncle.
“I’m still a disciple in development,” Rigacci said before sharing advice for his co-workers in Christ. “Be faithful, be consistent and don’t throw in the towel.”
By Lori Futcher Record Editor
Canó Honored With Excellence in Ministry Award
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Sonia Canó’s heart for children is evident whenever she speaks about them. When she recalls the prayers of a young girl after the tragedy in Uvalde, Tex., her emotion is unmistakable. The same intensity appears when she tells of two boys whose drawing of an airplane was not about travel, but a prayer for their grandparents to visit.
“Children right now, they’re lonely,” Canó said. “And children right now, they need hope and they need Jesus.”
For more than 35 years, Canó has channeled her passion into serving children. Her work brought her to the Southwestern Union in 2014, where she now serves as children’s ministries director. In January, her long-standing dedication was recognized with a lifetime achievement award from the North American Division (NAD).
Canó says she was attending the NAD Adventist Ministries Convention in Louisville, Ky., when Sherri Uhrig, children’s ministry director for the North American Division, sent her a
text saying “we’re on.” Canó was confused. Later, when Uhrig approached and said “9:15, we need to be back on stage,” Canó still wasn’t sure what was happening. It wasn’t until a video presentation began, announcing Canó’s name for an Excellence in Ministry award that the realization hit her.
“I was like, whoa,” Canó said, describing the moment she realized she was being honored. But what touched her heart most wasn’t the award itself. It was seeing colleagues from across the North American Division standing up, clapping and enjoying the moment with her. “I will keep it in my heart,” she said.
By Gerson Pancorbo Communication Director
Behind the Scenes of Constituency Session
BURLESON, TEX. – Last summer’s General Conference Session offered a familiar picture of how the church makes decisions through representative gatherings. That same process will take place closer to home on April 26 at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, as the Southwestern Union holds its constituency session. During this session, delegates will elect leaders and conduct church business.
Typically, unions hold their constituency sessions the year after a General Conference (GC) Session. Once a date is set, planning begins
well in advance—about 15 months before the session itself—starting with a review of what was done previously and what should change.
In addition to logistical planning, important policy deadlines must be met for a constituency session to take place. Required notifications and proposed changes to the union’s constitution and bylaws must be prepared and distributed within specific timeframes before the session convenes, or the session is at risk of being cancelled. The constituency session itself takes place in a single day. Conferences
LEGAL NOTICES
caucus to select an organizing committee, which in turn chooses the nominating committee, tasked with nominating individuals to fill leadership positions for the next term. While that work continues, delegates vote on bylaw changes and view video reports. Partial nominating committee reports return throughout the day as officers and department leaders are brought to the floor for election.
“When you think about all that has to happen,” said Tony Anobile, vice president for church ministries and chair of the constituency plenary committee, “we usually end by 4 p.m., which is incredible.”
Even for church members who are not delegates, the results will be visible almost immediately, with election outcomes shared through the union’s website and social media channels as votes become official.
By Lori Futcher Record Editor
SOUTHWESTERN UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS
Official notice is hereby given of the 32nd regular session of the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventhday Adventists to be held in Keene, Tex. The business meeting is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, 114 S. Fairview, Keene, Texas. Regular delegates to this session are appointed by the local conferences of the Southwestern Union Conference.
Carlos J. Craig, President
Stephen E. Brooks, Secretary
SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY
Notice is hereby given that Southwestern Adventist University will hold its constituency meeting on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, 114 S. Fairview, Keene, Tex. The meeting is called for 10 a.m. or at the conclusion of the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Constituency Session.
Carlos J. Craig, Board Chair Ana Patterson, Secretary
Discipleship is a Lifestyle
What’s the difference between a member and a disciple? A member belongs to an organization, often without any real commitment. They may pay dues or contribute financially, but loyalty can falter when their expectations aren’t met, leading to disengagement. Church members might stop tithing or attending when disillusioned.
But a disciple has embraced a deeper relationship with Jesus and is committed to His mission. As stated in Matthew 10:24-25, “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master. It is enough for the disciple that he becomes like his teacher,” (NASB). A disciple strives to emulate the Master with a commitment mission.
Ellen G. White wrote in The Desire of Ages : “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver.” A true disciple shares the message of Christ, nurtured through a close relationship with Him.
WHAT SETS ACTIVE DISCIPLES APART
Wholehearted Commitment: True disciples demonstrate unwavering commitment to following Jesus.
Multiplication Mindset: Disciples are involved in making more disciples rather than being passive spectators. Engagement in Ministry: Rather than merely observing, disciples contribute to the church’s mission.
Constructive Critique: Disciples provide constructive feedback on programs rather than judging them.
Support for Mission: Disciples’ contributions align with the Church’s mission.
HOW TO CULTIVATE DISCIPLESHIP
Cultivate a Personal Relationship with Jesus. Dedicate time daily for prayer, scripture reading and reflection. Engage in activities that draw you closer to Christ.
Commit to Training. Attend workshops or courses that teach effective discipleship practices.
Engage Actively in Church Life. Take on roles in ministries that resonate with your gifts and passions.
Mentor Others. Identify someone younger or less experienced in faith and offer guidance and support. Lead a small group or Bible study to foster a community of learning.
Embrace a Mission Mindset. Look for opportunities outside your church
to share the Gospel and serve others. Contribute to mission projects.
Reflect and Adjust. Regularly evaluate your spiritual journey and commitment to discipleship. Seek feedback from fellow mentors. By implementing this plan, you’ll not only deepen your own discipleship journey but also contribute to a culture of discipleship within the Church, effectively fulfilling the calling of every believer to become a true disciple. By Jeff Villegas President
Conference Treasurer Reaches 20-Year Milestone
SHREVEPORT, LA. – On Nov. 7, 2025, Rodney Dyke, treasurer of the ArkansasLouisiana Conference, marked 20 years of service with the conference. Dyke began his work with the
Arkansas-Louisiana Conference in 2005 as associate treasurer, a role he held until 2011, when he was appointed treasurer. In that position, he oversees the conference’s financial operations and stewardship responsibilities.
Before joining the ArkansasLouisiana Conference, Dyke served in several financial leadership roles, including senior accountant for the Texas Conference and vice principal of finance at Battle Creek Academy. He brings more than three decades of experience in denominational finance and administration to his current role. Dyke holds a master of business administration and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Mississippi State University, as well as degrees in
religion and computer science from Southern Adventist University.
In recent years, Dyke’s wife, Peggy Dyke, has worked alongside him in the conference treasury office, assisting with day-to-day operations and supporting the department’s work.
Conference leaders and colleagues expressed appreciation for Dyke’s long-term service and leadership, noting his steady guidance of conference finances over the past two decades. Dyke’s 20-year anniversary reflects his continued commitment to the administrative and financial mission of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference.
By Frances Alcorn
Church Members Pack 130 Christmas Shoeboxes
PINEVILLE, LA. – What began years ago, as a small gathering has grown into a beloved churchwide tradition that embodies generosity, service and community spirit.
Each year the members of Central Louisiana Seventh-day Adventist Church gather with joyful hearts and busy hands to support Operation Christmas Child, a ministry that delivers gift-filled shoeboxes to boys and girls around the world. These boxes not only provide children with practical items and toys but also offer an opportunity to hear the life-changing message of Jesus—a mission the church embraces wholeheartedly.
The preparation begins as early as September, when church members start bringing in supplies one piece at a time. Toiletries, school supplies, small tools and toys slowly accumulate, filling donation bins and storage rooms in anticipation of the church’s annual shoebox packing party.
By the time packing day arrives, the fellowship hall has been transformed.
Several tables overflow with organized supplies, and hundreds of pre-assembled shoeboxes stand ready to be filled. Laughter and conversation fill this room as volunteers of all ages—children, teens, parents and seniors—work side by side. The atmosphere is warm and festive, complete with the familiar comforts of hot cocoa and cookies, making the event feel as joyful as the holiday season it helps us usher in.
This year’s effort was a remarkable success as the church packed 130 shoeboxes for children overseas. Each box
represents thoughtfulness, prayer and a tangible expression of love and hope. The tradition continues to grow, but its heart remains the same: bringing joy to children around the world and inviting them to experience the message of Christ’s love. For the members of the Central Louisiana church, Operation Christmas Child is more than an annual project—it’s a celebration of giving, faith and the impact a small box can have on a child’s life.
By Amy Babb
Evangelistic Meetings Lead to Baptism
HEBER SPRINGS, ARK. – The Heber Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church recently celebrated the baptism of Alfredo Del Rosario at the end of a Revelation of Hope series, presented by retired pastor Laurie DeWitt.
The series was based on Jesus’ prophecies in Matthew 24 and other
Gospel passages. The series covered the Sabbath, the state of the dead, baptism, the second coming, heaven, the surety of scriptures and other Adventist doctrines. Del Rosario was particularly excited about the topic of baptism as he had been looking forward to that for some time.
The church members were very supportive and enjoyed hearing the truths again and particularly liked the question-and-answer sessions.
By Laurie DeWitt
Central Louisiana Women Gather and Serve
PINEVILLE, LA. – While some women from the Central Louisiana Seventh-day Adventist Church attended the conference-wide women’s ministries retreat held in Shreveport in September 2025, many were unable to come.
So women’s ministries in the central Louisiana area invited all our women to attend a meeting at a local restaurant to share the information we had learned at the retreat.
The information included messages about spiritual, mental and physical wellness, and we shared some of the available resources distributed by the retreat. We also discussed the need for more information on awareness for domestic abuse and violence issues and have ordered additional pamphlets on the subject.
The opportunity to share with one another also gave the women’s
ministries group a fun way to reach out to family and friends in the community. We organized a cookie exchange at a member’s home. Each person brought two dozen cookies. We filled decorative holiday boxes, which were labeled with the church’s name and address, with a wide variety of treats for members to then distribute as an outreach activity.
By Kim Aldrich
University Students Respond to Timely Message
THIBODAUX, LA. – During evangelistic meetings at Nicholls State University, youth leader and theology student Alton Diamond shared a powerful message that deeply touched hearts. By the end of the call, five students gave their lives to Christ.
Though at first it seemed that only one had made the decision, after one final appeal led by the Holy Spirit, four more stood and surrendered to Jesus. Heaven rejoices over these precious decisions.
By Rodil Capobres Pastor
Ray Pollard Baptized in Tontitown
TONTITOWN, ARK. – On Sept. 27, 2025, Ray Pollard was baptized with the Tontitown Seventh-day Adventist Group, joyfully dedicating his life to Jesus.
Pollard served in the Marines at a young age and has carried that same strength and discipline into his walk of faith. After learning about the Sabbath truth, he began faithfully attending church for many years. His love for God’s Word is evident. He has read
the New Testament five times and is now completing the Old Testament for the third time. Having completed the Amazing Facts Bible study guides, Pollard has grown deeply passionate about the beliefs of the church and living out his faith each day.
We praise God for Ray’s decision!
By Monica Thames
Sabbath School Teachers Receive Certification
METAIRIE, LA. – On Oct. 25, 2025, the first Sabbath School teachers to receive certification in the Metairie Spanish District were honored at the Kenner Seventh-day Adventist Church.
District Pastor Carlos Schupnik provided instruction for this certification to 22 teachers from three churches. The instruction had as its theme “The High Calling of the Sabbath School Teacher.”
Plans are in place for this certification to be repeated twice in 2026.
By Carlos Schupnik Pastor
Disaster Training Held in South Louisiana
LAFAYETTE, LA. – Anticipating things that might happen during the hurricane season, the Lafayette and New Iberia Seventh-day Adventist churches decided to freshen up their disaster supplies and training.
Mateo Ramirez, pastor of Lafayette and New Iberia churches, contacted Lavida Whitson, Arkansas-Louisiana
Central Arkansas Pathfinder Camporee
BONNERDALE, ARK. – The Bonnerdale Seventh-day Adventist Church Pathfinder Club hosted the vibrant Central Arkansas camporee, themed “Under Pressure: The Truth About Peer Pressure.” Set against the backdrop of nature, the event drew an enthusiastic group of 51 Pathfinders along with 58 staff members for six clubs in the Central Arkansas area.
Throughout the experience, participants engaged in uplifting worship
sessions and interactive lessons, with the art of the origami honor seamlessly integrated into the program. The youth delved into the complexities of standing firm for Christ amid the intense pressures of the world.
With Philippians 4:13 and Romans 12:2 as their guiding lights, leaders inspired the Pathfinders to resist negative influences, foster resilience and remember that they are never alone in their struggles.
Conference Adventist Community Services Disaster Response director, and arranged for Marshal Gonzales to do a district-wide training.
A large group of willing people are now trained and ready for hurricane season.
By Sylvia Downs
As the sun set, excitement charged the atmosphere, from the exhilarating games of glow tag to the joyful exchange during pin trading. The weekend concluded with evening campfire worship that brought participants together and strengthened a sense of shared community.
By Stacey Sowers
Forrest City Evangelism Leads to Baptism
FORREST CITY, ARK. – Angeliqua and Tim Kripps from the Arkansas-Louisiana Education Department joined Franklin Marti, pastor of the Forrest City Seventh-day Adventist Church, for evangelism during the last week of September. As a result one young man,
Eric Smith, was baptized and two others requested Bible studies.
Smith is a high school student whose teacher invited him to attend the meetings. In the past, Eric has helped with Vacation Bible School (VBS) at the Forrest City church, so he was familiar with
Adventists, but the evangelistic meetings were a big turning point for him. After being baptized, he was happy to learn about Oakwood College and has planned a visit to the school as he prepares for college.
By Frances Alcorn
The Role of the Conference Office
What role does the conference office play, and how do directors support pastors, teachers and local church leaders? The answer is we are here to serve. Administrators and directors are educators, pastors, ministry leaders and financial professionals who have been entrusted with a broader scope of responsibility. This assignment doesn’t grant greater value, higher importance or special status. We don’t deserve more respect or recognition than those serving faithfully in churches, schools, camps or communities. Scripture reminds us that “there are different kinds of service, but the same Lord,” 1 Corinthians 12:5 (NIV).
Our varied experience may prepare us for specific areas of responsibility, but we are all co-laborers in the same field. Oklahoma is the territory God has entrusted to us—a shared field made up of local church leaders, pastors, teachers, camp professionals, administrators and support staff, all called and empowered by Him. We are one conference, one team, one family, united in purpose and mission.
The conference office plays a vital role in providing practical and mission-focused support to both employees and local leaders. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring that pastors, teachers and local hires
are paid accurately and receive appropriate benefits; assisting churches and schools with property purchases and insurance coverage; processing insurance claims; providing leadership training; coordinating conference-wide programming for all ages; supporting school governance; and participating in the hiring and onboarding of pastors and teachers. Much of this work happens behind the scenes, yet it is essential to the health and stability of the mission.
Serving from the conference office also comes with its share of challenges. Difficult and, at times, sensitive decisions must be made. These moments require wisdom, humility and care. Through earnest prayer, thoughtful deliberation and close collaboration with the local field, we continually see God’s faithful hand at work. We rely on His guidance every step of the way.
Our administrative team, departmental directors and support staff are committed to serving our constituents well. We don’t always have every resource we wish for, nor do we claim to have all the answers. Yet our hearts are firmly set on coming alongside you—listening, supporting and doing the very best we can with what God has entrusted to us. If we are not here to serve, to walk with you and to provide
meaningful support, then we must humbly ask ourselves why we exist. We look forward to connecting with you—by email, text, phone call or in person—and invite you to explore OKAdventist.org to sign up for the conference newsletter and discover conference news, events, inspiration and job postings. As we walk side by side in ministry, it is my prayer that God will continue to unite us, strengthen our trust in one another and guide our conference in a direction that not only fulfills the calling He has given us, but also draws us closer together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
By Daniel Ortega President
Marlowe Parks Ordained for Life of Service
EDMOND, OKLA. – Marlowe Parks was ordained at the Abundant Life Seventh-day Adventist Church on Jan. 10, 2026. The ordination ceremony underscored that, while it was a celebration of Parks, it was, more importantly, a celebration of God’s transformative power. It celebrated his dedication to God’s calling and the divine work manifested through Him.
The event featured an introduction emphasizing that the true praise belonged to God, who enabled Parks to be in his current position, followed by a musical performance titled “All to Bring Him Glory.”
A pivotal moment in the sermon, delivered by Stephen Brooks, Southwestern Union executive secretary, drew parallels from Psalm 78:9, discussing Ephraim’s retreat in battle. He connected this ancient narrative to the modern challenges faced by pastors, urging perseverance in ministry despite hardships. Brooks also highlighted statistics regarding pastors leaving the ministry for reasons other than retirement, reinforcing the message that the laying on of hands is a lifelong commitment, not merely an initiation for a temporary job. He stressed that difficult times will come and that true strength lies in trusting God, even when facing betrayal or adversity.
The congregation learned about Marlowe Parks’ personal journey through a biographical overview. Born in Harlem, N.Y., to an 18-year-old mother involved in street life, Parks and his brother
were raised by their grand-aunt. They endured physical abuse before being placed in foster care, where they were introduced to Jesus. At the tender age of nine, Parks committed his life to Christ, developing a singular purpose: to serve his heavenly Father. He found solace and guidance in God, particularly through the challenges of moving between foster homes. After exiting the foster care system, he encountered individuals at his workplace who introduced him to the great truths of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which gave him a profound sense of purpose and answers to his difficult start in life. He began preaching shortly after his baptism and pursued extensive theological education, graduating with a Master’s in pastoral ministry from Andrews University. His ministry has spanned the United States, the Caribbean, Europe and Africa, and he currently serves as a pastor in the Oklahoma Conference. Parks has been married to Melshara for nearly 30 years, and they have two children, Taji and Judea, along with two granddaughters. The ordination continued with a formal charge, which Parks, standing alongside his wife Melshara, publicly accepted. This was followed by a solemn prayer of consecration and the laying on of hands by ordained ministers and church leaders. During this sacred moment, prayers were offered for divine protection, an increase of the Holy Spirit and sustained strength for the Parks’ ministry.
Concluding the ceremony, Daniel Ortega, Oklahoma Conference president, offered heartfelt words of encouragement and a final charge to Parks. He acknowledged the inevitable highs and lows in ministry, drawing parallels to the prophet Elijah’s experiences. Ortega emphasized the crucial need for unwavering dependence on God, urging Parks to remain humble, committed and deeply grounded in Scripture and prayer. Ortega charged Parks to lead with compassion and integrity, live out a ministry of presence, lift up Jesus, laugh with those who laugh, lament with those who lament, always look to Jesus and love people as Jesus loved them. Citing Zephaniah 3:17, Ortega reminded Parks of God’s constant presence, saving power, joyful relationship, compassion and promises.
The ceremony also paid special tribute to Melshara Parks, acknowledging her vital role as she continues her journey of ministry alongside her husband. It was affirmed that her service, love and spiritual strength profoundly impact lives in seen and unseen ways, making her faithfulness a continuous blessing to the ministry. The church committed to praying for, encouraging and supporting the work God has entrusted to both of them.
By Todd Gessele Assistant Communication Director
by Emily Watts
Photos
Rogers County Baby Shower Supports Families
CLAREMORE, OKLA. – The Claremore Community Food Bank recently hosted a heartwarming event that drew several hundred attendees from across Rogers County. The annual Rogers County Baby Shower supports new and expectant mothers, fathers and their families with a vibrant celebration of life, community and faith.
Claremore Seventh-day Adventist Church members joined in to extend practical and spiritual encouragement.
The event featured vendors offering baby essentials, professional photographers capturing family moments and
a wide array of resources tailored to the needs of parents preparing for the arrival of their little ones.
Community services staff provided information about their food pantry and upcoming programs, ensuring families knew where to turn for ongoing support. Attendees also received literature such as Primary Treasures, My Little Friends, Signs of the Times and Steps to Christ , receiving spiritual nourishment alongside physical resources. Beyond material assistance, the event emphasized holistic care. Information on child development from
pre-birth through toddler years was available, reflecting the commitment of Claremore Community Services to equip parents.
For the church members, participation in the baby shower was more than community outreach—it was ministry. Their goal is to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of the community, embodying Christ’s love through service.
The Rogers County Baby Shower stood as a shining example of how faithbased organizations and local partners can work together to uplift families. By combining practical resources with spiritual guidance, the event reminded all in attendance that they are not alone on their parenting journies.
Busy Hands Make Dresses for Girls in Need
SHAWNEE, OKLA. – If you happen to meet Linda White, retired home health aide and speech pathologist, she might just have a thimble on her finger and a sewing needle in her hand.
White started sewing at the age of 6 or 7, following in her mother’s footsteps. “I just developed a passion for sewing by watching my mom,” White said. “She was always sewing.”
A resident of Shawnee and a member of the Shawnee Seventh-day Adventist Church, White recently completed 80 girls’ sundresses to place in shoeboxes that the church packaged for Operation Christmas Child to distribute to children around the world.
“Each dress was different and unique,” White shared. “Some had
different colored straps. Others had lace, rick rack or pockets. There may have been two cut out of the same fabric if it was a large bolt, but they were still different.”
Norma Adams, a fellow church member and seamstress, donated three-fourths of the fabric White used to make the dresses.
White made her own patterns for the dresses. “I tried to be intentional for the 2-to-4-year-olds, and the 5-to-9-yearolds, and then the 10-to-14-year-olds. I’d find a look on Pinterest that I liked and then I’d make my own.”
White said she used her Baby Lock Rachel sewing machine to make the dresses. It took her several months to complete 80 dresses.
“My mom had a treadmill sewing machine that I learned on,” White said. “It would have taken forever for me to make the dresses on it, but I still have mom’s machine to this day.”
White perfected her sewing skills in home economics classes in junior high. Now she makes quilt tops, embroideries, knits and crochets.
“I just love to keep my hands busy,” she said, “and it’s nice when I’m doing something for others.”
By Keith Dobbs
Mission Trip Yields 200 Baptisms in Pakistan
PAKISTAN – When I stepped off the plane in Lahore last fall for my third mission trip to Pakistan, I knew God had something extraordinary in store. Over the past two years, we have witnessed nearly 500 baptisms in this region, but what unfolded during this journey was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Our first days were spent among the brick kilns—modern-day slavery sites where families toil endlessly to repay debts they can never escape. Many of these workers cannot read or write, yet their hunger for God’s Word is undeniable. By His grace, we distributed audio Bibles in their own language, allowing them to hear the Gospel for the very first time. The transformation was immediate: despair gave way to hope, and faces once marked by exhaustion began to shine with joy.
On Sabbath, I preached at the Pakistan Union Church in Lahore, where believers gathered in unity.
The following day, we traveled to Okara to hold the first-ever communion and foot washing service for a fledgling congregation. It was a sacred, unforgettable moment—new believers humbly serving one another, embracing the fullness of Christ’s example.
Each evening in Okara, thousands crowded into a hall that quickly overflowed. Night after night, we proclaimed the everlasting Gospel and the
Three Angels’ Message. By the final evening, more than 200 individuals surrendered their lives to Christ in baptism. The Spirit was moving powerfully, and entire families were transformed.
Among those baptized were 11 families from a single village.
One family shared that they had been praying for 10 years for God to lead them to His truth. As they listened to the messages, the Holy Spirit confirmed that this was the truth they had longed for.
Ten other families from their village joined them, and together, all 11 families were baptized. An entire community stepped into the light of God’s Word. But now these new believers face a challenge: They have no church to worship in.
One family has offered a small piece of land and begun laying the foundation for a church. The believers are eager, united and ready—but they cannot afford to finish the building.
The cost is modest compared to the eternal impact—bricks: $680, roof: $1,045, cement and sand: $465, concrete and iron: $264, labor: $350, door and window: $357. The total needed is $3,161.
This little church will be more than walls and a roof. It will be a spiritual home for 11 families—and many more who will come. It will be a place to worship, study, pray, grow and
be equipped to reach neighboring villages with the Gospel.
As I reflect on this mission trip, I’m overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness. From baptisms in Kasur to the growth of new home churches, the fields are ripe for harvest. These believers are new in the faith, but they are committed, sincere and hungry for God’s Word. A church is not just a building— it is an anchor for new disciples. And right now, these families urgently need that anchor.
If the Lord impresses your heart, I invite you to join us in finishing this church. Your support will give an entire community a place where truth can thrive and where generations will learn to follow Jesus.
By Jack Stout
Scan the QR code below to watch 3ABN Today’s “Jack Stout Story: From Rodeo Cowboy to Minister.”
Bear Sighting in Shawnee
SHAWNEE, OKLA. – Shawnee Seventh-day Adventist Church has a “bear handler” in their congregation.
Ronda Jackson Funk isn’t a traditional bear handler, working in a zoo or animal sanctuary. She hands out stuffed teddy bears to safety and correctional officers who then use these bears as comfort tools in emergencies.
“The bears are given to officers to help a child that has possibly been in an accident or may have had to be removed from their home,” stated
Funk, “just something that may give them a little comfort.”
Funk delivered bears to representatives of two tribal governments—the Sac and Fox Nation and the Absentee Shawnee Tribe—and to two local law enforcement agencies—the Shawnee Police Department and the Potawatomi County Sheriff’s Department.
The Shawnee church has been exercising its mission to be good friends and neighbors in the community. They continue to give where there’s a
need—from socks and underwear in the elementary schools to nourishment baskets for families in need. Members can also always count on an international food potluck every Sabbath.
Please be a part of this contagious “bear handler” ministry. Send bears you’d like to donate via U.S. mail to Ronda Funk, P.O. Box 775, Shawnee, Okla. 74802-0775.
By Keith Dobbs
Wewoka Woods Opens Summer Camp Registration
WEWOKA, OKLA. – Wewoka Woods Summer Camp is designed for kids ages 7–16 to remind the campers that “Jesus is the Light.”
• Adventure Camp (Ages 7–10) May 31–June 7, 2026
• Horsemanship Camp (Ages 10–16) May 31–June 7, 2026
• Junior Camp (Ages 10–13) June 7–14, 2026
• Teen Camp (Ages 14–16) June 14–21, 2026
This is the first year for Horsemanship Camp, which costs $600. The first 10
horsemanship campers (boys and girls) to register will get a $100 discount. All other camps are $350 per week per child, same price as last year. Payments can be spread out over several months upon registration, which secures your kid's spot at summer camp.
Cabin #2 is currently being remodeled with Cabins #3 and #4 to follow. A donation to build a fifth cabin has been received.
Consider giving a child the gift of a week at summer camp this year!
By Israel Mora Camp Director
Be Rooted in Christ!
Springtime signals a quiet but powerful transition. The cold of winter begins to dissipate, the sun shines longer, daylight hours increase, seeds buried in the soil begin their unseen work of germination and what once looked barren now shows signs of fresh life. Without speaking a word, spring delivers a message: growth is possible after stillness, and life can emerge where things once seemed still.
This change in season provides a meaningful picture of the Christian journey. Scripture often turns to agricultural imagery to explain our connection with Christ. In the Parable of the Sower, (Matthew 13:3–9, 18–23; Mark 4:1-20; and Luke 8:4-15), Jesus portrays the heart as soil, the Word as seed and growth as the result of a receptive spirit.
The apostle Paul echoes this theme when he urges believers to continue their lives in Christ, “rooted and built up in Him,” (Colossians 2:6-7).
And perhaps the most familiar image comes from Jesus’ own words, when he said, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing,” John 15:5 (KJV).
Healthy roots naturally lead to healthy growth. A well-rooted plant doesn’t struggle to grow. Growth is its normal outcome. In the same way, our lives must be firmly rooted in Christ if we expect spiritual growth. Once planted in Him, these roots require care. They are strengthened through the steady fertilization of Scripture and refreshed through a daily watering of prayer. These spiritual disciplines stabilize, feed and sustain the Christian, resulting in signs of spiritual growth.
Scripture and prayer matter because depth matters. Any gardener will tell you that roots must reach deep to find moisture in dry conditions. Likewise, Christians must sink deep in Christ to stand firm through life’s tests, trials and tribulations. Faith that lacks depth may appear adequate in comfortable seasons, but it struggles when life’s challenges come. Springtime teaches that what’s visible above the ground is supported by what’s developed beneath it.
Please don’t confuse spiritual growth with spiritual activity. A person can be busy in spiritual things, yet not spiritually growing. Put simply, one can have a lot of motion but no movement. True spiritual growth is measured by
Christlike maturity, not by a full schedule of religious activity. One may serve diligently in the church and still remain spiritually unchanged with no growth. Authentic growth comes from remaining in Christ by studying His Word and speaking with Him daily, not merely working around Him.
Spring won’t last forever, but the growth it produces can. The invitation of this season isn’t just to admire new life, but to experience new life within us. When we’re rooted and growing in Christ, every season reveals that He is the source of true and lasting life.
By Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min. President
Ghanaian Church Empowers Youth Through Music
GRAND PRAIRIE, TEX. – The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Ghanaian Seventh-day Adventist Church in Grand Prairie, Tex., experienced a season of spiritual renewal and youth empowerment in fall 2025 through two significant initiatives that highlighted music, worship and decisive faith.
On Oct. 18, 2025, the church marked a major milestone with the inauguration and robe dedication of its newly formed DFW Ghanaian Youth Choir. Under the theme “Inaugural Praise 2025,” 40 robed youth led a vibrant Sabbath worship service that formally launched the choir’s music ministry. The service blended traditional hymns, contemporary praise and Ghanaian choral pieces, drawing heartfelt responses from both the in-person congregation and online viewers.
Host pastor Emmanuel Kumah challenged the youth to view their musical gifts as tools for evangelism and mission, while guest speaker Nathanael
Adjei-Kyeremeh urged them to ensure that their lives preached the same Gospel as their songs. Following prayers of dedication, the church committed the 40-member choir to ongoing service, expressing hope that their voices would strengthen faith, inspire worship and extend Gospel witness across the Dallas–Fort Worth community.
Building on this momentum, the church hosted the Youth and Young Adult (YAYA) Summer Revival, Sept. 5-20, 2025. Meeting Wednesday through Sunday evenings, the revival was held under the theme “Time Value of Salvation: Time to Choose is Now.” The series called youth and young adults to respond to Christ with urgency, repentance and hope.
Hosted by Emmanuel Kumah, pastor of DFW Ghanaian church, the revival featured Christ-centered messages from Samuel Acheampong, Maxwell Frimpong, Emmanuel Amakye and Kings Forson Boachie Mensah. Each
evening combined preaching, uplifting music, prayer and practical sessions addressing health, relationship coaching, career guidance and literature evangelism. Services were streamed through the church’s online platforms, allowing the message to reach viewers throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area and beyond.
Participants shared testimonies of renewed commitment, deeper spiritual growth and a strengthened resolve to share the gospel in their homes, schools and communities.
Together, the launch of the youth choir and the YAYA Summer Revival reflected the church’s intentional investment in its young people—equipping them to worship, witness and serve with purpose in this generation.
By Emmanuel Kumah Pastor
Southwest Region Conference News
Bethel Church Honors Women And Serves The Community
TEXARKANA, TEX. – On May 3, 2025, Bethel Seventh-day Adventist Church marked its annual Women’s Ministries Day and Community Service Celebration with a meaningful program centered on outreach, appreciation and service.
Guided by the belief that the church is not only in the community but for the community, the day’s events highlighted Bethel’s ongoing commitment to connecting faith with practical service. The celebration began during Sabbath School, taught by Anne Turner, who set a thoughtful tone for the day.
The divine worship service featured guest speaker Natasha Walker Jones of Little Rock, Ark., who delivered a powerful message from Ruth 1:19-21. Her sermon reinforced the theme of the day, “Woman of God, I Know It, I Walk in It, and I Live It.” She encouraged women to embrace their identity and calling in Christ.
The sanctuary was beautiful. Shades of purple were designated as the colors of the day, reflected both in the attire of attendees and in the table décor used for the fellowship meal. All visitors were also welcomed with
thoughtfully prepared purple gift bags, adding to the spirit of warmth and celebration.
A special moment of recognition honored the church’s senior mothers. The oldest mother in attendance received a gift card, and the congregation celebrated the remarkable presence of three mothers who were each 89-years-old.
Community engagement was further emphasized through the presence and remarks of local leaders who shared about their service and impact within the region. Honored guests included: Enriquea Allen, a 911 emergency communications director for Ark-Tex Council of Governments, recognized for her vital contributions to public safety; Steven Williams, a city councilman of New Boston, Tex., acknowledged for his lifelong commitment to leadership and community development; and Carl Brewer, the chief of police for Liberty-Eylau Independent School District, honored for fostering supportive relationships between schools and law enforcement in Texarkana.
Each community guest received a plaque in appreciation of their service,
and Jones was also presented with a plaque for her inspiring sermon.
More than 80 people attended the event, with visitors traveling from Little Rock and Ashdown, Ark.; Shreveport, La.; and several Texas communities, including New Boston, Dekalb, Hooks and Texarkana.
Following the worship service, attendees shared a fellowship meal. Then, during the afternoon program, Jones led a practical discussion on community service and church growth, encouraging members to assess the needs of their neighborhoods. She highlighted opportunities such as after-school daycare programs with meals and tutoring services as meaningful ways to meet community needs while fostering connection, belonging and spiritual growth.
The Women’s Day and Community Service Celebration reflected the Bethel church’s dedication to honoring women, uplifting leaders and living out Christ’s love through service.
By Emma Hundson Women’s Ministries Leader
Forest Hill Hosts Third Annual Youth Speech Contest
FOREST HILL, TEX.
– On March 29, 2025, the Forest Hill Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted its third annual Youth Speech Contest.
Competing in junior and senior divisions, students ages 10–18 presented original memorized speeches that applied biblical principles to real-life challenges. Topics included sharing
one’s faith at school, being a Christian in today’s world, applying God’s Word to daily life and using biblical values to guide social media use.
The winners for the junior division were Isaac Murray (first place), Evana Nshimiye (second place) and Mia Johnson (third place). Additional contestants included Obed Koskei, Serenity Lynch and Zayden Smith.
The winners for the senior division were Debra Mokua (first place), Gabrielle Ekwue (second place) and Maya McBrown (third place).
Each contestant spoke with conviction and grace, impressing both audience and judges. The judging panel included Jonathan Knowles; Alison Hill; Eunice Davis; Johnny
McKenzie; Carol Campbell, Southwestern Union vice president for education; and Lawanna McCoy, Southwest Region Conference director of special projects.
Guest pastors, Gabriel Perea and Chris Findley, inspired the youth with encouragement and insights on using one’s voice for God’s glory.
The Forest Hill church continues to invest in opportunities that help young people grow in faith, leadership and confidence.
If you or someone you know may be interested in participating in our 2026 youth speech contest, please text or call 682-224-8065 for more information.
By Linda Murray Youth Director
Women Across Cities Unite to Bless Port Arthur
PORT
ARTHUR, TEX. – On Nov. 22, 2025, women from Houston, Baytown and Nacogdoches came together under the banner of the Houston Area Women’s Ministries (HAWM) to launch the community outreach, “Wrapped in Warmth, Covered in Prayer.”
What began as a vision to collect winter essentials became a mission of mercy in a movement fueled by love, prayer and faith.
Through weeks of preparation, churches and individuals collected hundreds of beanies, scarves, gloves and other winter items. These were carefully assembled into blessing bags—each one prayed over and packed with care.
On distribution day, the volunteers offered the items, along with dignity, conversation and comfort. One recipient shared, “I felt like someone truly cared. This wasn’t just a handout—it felt like a hug.”
One of the campaign’s most powerful aspects was the visible unity of women and men working side by side.
The presence of brothers in Christ— lifting boxes, offering smiles and covering the event in prayer—was a beautiful example of what it means to serve together in the kingdom of God.
The success of this outreach was made possible in part by the hospitality of Mount Olive Seventh-day Adventist Church. Their open doors, warm hearts and generous space created the perfect setting to welcome, serve and pray with the community.
Thank you, Mount Olive, for being a trusted home base where God’s love was shared freely.
This campaign was about more than scarves and gloves. It was about showing up—with faith, love and purpose. It was about wrapping our neighbors in warmth, but also covering them in prayer, knowing that what we offer in Jesus’ name leaves a lasting imprint on those we serve.
From Houston to Baytown to Nacogdoches, the women who served made it clear: We are one body, moving as one in Christ.
“Wrapped in Warmth, Covered in Prayer” is part of the ongoing God in Shoes initiative—a mission to meet practical needs while pointing hearts to heaven.
The outreach may be complete, but the calling continues. Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep loving well. Let’s keep serving together.
To join future women’s ministries initiatives or learn how you can serve, connect with your local church leader, or follow Southwest Region Conference Women’s Ministries online.
By Anysia Archibald Women’s Ministries Director
Influence That Lasts
What does it mean to become a person of influence? For many, influence sounds like power, popularity or control—but Paul’s words remind us that true influence begins with surrender. “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?” Galatians 1:10 (ESV). That question cuts to the heart of Christian leadership and discipleship. Influence is not about applause; it’s about alignment with God’s will, God’s mission and God’s timing.
Paul’s life demonstrates three truths about lasting influence. First, seek God’s approval above all else. Influence rooted in human approval is fragile. It shifts with trends and opinions. But when our lives are anchored in Christ, we shine—not for our own glory, but for His. Jesus called us the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Light and salt don’t draw attention to themselves; they transform their surroundings. That’s influence.
Second, discover God’s mission for your life. Paul’s Gospel wasn’t a human invention; it came by revelation from Jesus Christ. (See Galatians 1:11-12.) His calling was clear: preach Christ among
the Gentiles. Mission gives influence its direction. Without mission, influence becomes noise, but with mission, influence becomes a melody that points others to hope. God has a mission for you—whether in your home, workplace or community. It may not come in a Damascus Road moment, but it will come as you seek Him with an undivided heart.
Third, invest the time to establish credibility. Influence is never instant. Paul spent years preparing—three in Arabia, 14 more before being fully recognized by Jerusalem’s leaders. (See Galatians 2:1.)
In a culture obsessed with speed, we forget that spiritual authority grows slowly. It’s forged in faithfulness, tested in trials and proven over time. The most influential lives aren’t the loudest; they’re the most consistent.
So, what does this mean for us today? It means influence isn’t optional. Whether we admit it or not, someone is watching—our children, our neighbors, our colleagues. The question is not, “Will I influence?” but “How will I influence?” Will others praise God
because of us? Or will they ignore Him because of us? Our prayer should echo Paul’s legacy: that every word, every act, every decision would lead others to glorify God.
“Together as One,” let’s rise to this challenge: seek God’s approval, embrace His mission and invest for the long haul. Influence is not about being famous—it’s about being faithful. Who will praise God because of you?
By Elton DeMoraes, D.Min. President
Houston Central Church Celebrates 125th Anniversary
HOUSTON – Joyfully, the Houston Central Seventh-day Adventist Church commemorated a major milestone under the theme “Celebrating the Journey: 125 Years United in Christ.”
The church was established on July 7, 1900, and the congregation’s anniversary celebration took place Oct. 19–25, 2025, with powerful worship, musical praise, heartfelt reunions and a spirit of gratitude for God’s faithfulness.
To kick off its celebration, Senior Pastor Federico Revollo led a Pentecost 2025 evangelistic series, “Jesus is the Answer,” which was conducted virtually via YouTube and Facebook.
A musical celebration on Friday, Oct. 24, featured choirs and ensembles from many Seventh-day Adventist churches that trace their beginnings
to Houston Central church, including Bethel, Fondren Southwest, Houston Spanish Alief, Baytown LaPorte, Houston Spanish Robertson, Houston Spanish Northwest, Houston First Fil-Am, Houston Luso-Brazilian and Houston United African churches. The evening highlighted the diversity and unity of the greater Houston Adventist community, with musical groups ministering and sharing testimonies.
On Sabbath, a panel discussion moderated by Salomon Espinoza, former and current pastors (Sam Mercado, José Rojas, Leaquim Caitano and Matthew Makau) reflected on the church’s legacy and mission. The divine service featured music by the Houston Adventist Academy choir and by Joint Praise and Orchestra. Greetings and
video tributes poured in from former pastors and denominational leaders honoring Houston Central’s legacy of evangelism, education and community service. And new members joined hands with those who helped lay the church’s foundation. Elton DeMoraes, president of the Texas Conference, delivered an inspiring message on God’s providence, calling on the congregation to get “soaked by His power, soaked by His presence.”
To conclude the weekend, a gala featured music by the renowned Heritage Singers, filling the Family Life Center with praise and thanksgiving.
By Rebecca Bartholomew
Students Build School in Peru
PUCALLPA, PERU – During the summer of 2025, students from the West Houston Seventh-day Adventist Church built classrooms for the Institución Educativa Particular Maranatha School in Pucallpa, Peru. Maranatha Volunteers International, which built the school in 2005, organized this project. Volunteers from Houston comprised the bulk of the work crew, and several joined from other states.
The trip was divided into two sequential stages. Twenty high school students served the first week, followed by a group of 15 college students. The combined efforts of both groups produced stellar results as volunteers laid 60 feet of block walls for the 80-foot classroom suite, completing three of its four classrooms.
Project coordinator Greg Hatch believes mission trips like this one to Peru can make a permanent impact on volunteers. “We want to continue to give our young people an opportunity to begin or continue a life of service and to understand what it means to truly sacrifice yourself for God and to be able to see Him at work on these trips,” Hatch said.
Damian Huerta, a high school student, said he initially signed up for a previous mission trip for the chance to travel, but after that trip, he “got hooked on it.” Huerta wase baptized during his second project. “We consistently worship a lot, so it kind of helps bring me back to reading the Bible,” he explained. “These trips definitely help you connect and be spiritual in a
different way. There are no distractions. It’s just your colleagues and the Bible.” Hatch has rallied young people in Texas to serve for more than a decade. “We decided that we needed to create opportunities for our young people and teachers who couldn’t attend a mission trip other than during the summer,” he recalled. Donors help provide financial support so that students don’t have to bear the full financial burden of these trips, making it possible for the young people to serve year after year. This decision to begin doing summer mission trips was made in 2012, and, apart from a pause during the pandemic, Hatch has led young people on the trip every year since.
By Sidney Needles
‘Lock In’ to Learn More About Paul at Summer Camp
CLIFTON, TEX. – At Lake Whitney Ranch, summer camp more than just a fun week of activities. It’s a life-changing opportunity for young people to learn about Jesus and the mission all believers are called to. This year’s theme “Dear Believer, Lock In,” dives deep
into the story of Paul—his powerful conversion and timeless letters—showing campers how his journey and writings apply to their lives.
The 2026 summer camp season begins with Cub Camp (ages 7–10), June 7–14, then continues with Junior Camp (ages 10–12), June 14–21; Tween Camp (ages 12–14), June 21–28; Teen Camp (ages 14–17), June 28-July 5; and Young Adult Retreat (18+), July 8-12. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.
Please encourage the young people in your life to sign up for summer camp at Lake Whitney Ranch. If you
feel called to make camp possible for campers who otherwise would not be able to afford the experience, please consider becoming a sponsor. You can text LWRsummer to 41444 to access an online giving page for donating to Lake Whitney Ranch summer camp scholarships.
Thank you for joining us in prayer for this summer camp ministry. Visit YoungTexasAdventist.org/summercamp for more information.
By Olga Falakiseni Youth & Young Adult Ministries Associate Director
Photos by Greg Hatch
Texas Youth Serve in the Dominican Republic
MANA YAGUATE, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Over Thanksgiving break, 48 young people from the Texas Conference chose a different kind of holiday. They served communities in the Dominican Republic with practical help and Gospel-centered ministry. This team of youth, ages 16 and up, arrived with a clear purpose: to be the hands and feet of Jesus while meeting needs, building hope and sharing Christ through both action and message.
The primary project was to help build a church sanctuary for a rural congregation in Mana Yaguate, located in the mountains near San Cristóbal. For years, Adventist members have worshiped in a broken-down structure with holes in the ceiling and crumbling walls. Although it was their dream to build a safe sanctuary, they had little to no financial means to make it a reality.
The group’s objective was straightforward: to leave the congregation with a functional building in which to worship, protected from the elements. Through long days of work, the team helped bring that dream within reach. By the end of the trip, the congregation had a usable structure and was able to complete the remaining final touches and details.
The mission extended beyond construction. In the evenings, the team held an evangelistic meeting, seeing dozens make decisions for Christ. They also hosted a Vacation Bible School that served more than 200 children from the surrounding community. With Bible stories, music and activities, the group created a space for children to experience the love of Jesus.
The mission trip concluded with an unforgettable experience of fellowship
and ministry: The youth participated in the Central Dominican Conference Master Guide Camporee, joining 3,000 Master Guides in worship, learning and spiritual celebration.
At the Texas Conference, we believe we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our world today. We are passionate about our mission and evangelism, always seeking opportunities to serve and share the light of Christ with others. We are changing the world, one mission at a time.
By Christian Ponciano Youth & Young Adult Ministries Director
Mission Trip Takes Texas Youth to Tonga
FALELOA, HA’APAI – Eighteen individuals met at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on Nov. 20, 2025 to check in for their 13-hour flight to Nadi, Fiji. Their destination was the Kingdom of Tonga in the South Pacific, specifically the village of Faleloa, Ha’apai. This group’s mission was to build a parsonage home for the local church and to spread the word of God in message and song.
After an eight-hour wait in Fiji, the group finally reached Tongatapu via a two-hour flight, where they enjoyed a moment of Sabbath peace before beginning a 15-hour boat ride to Ha’apai after flights were canceled.
Sekope Finau, executive secretary of the Tongan Mission, arranged to greet the weary travelers with a meal featuring a wide variety of foods. He invited the Texas team to minister at the church he pastors in Vain. There, they
described their Faleloa mission trip and shared music as well as a message.
An incredible building team, which had been working tirelessly for weeks, greeted the Texas team upon their arrival at Ha’apai. Makasini Pahulu, the project lead, successfully procured a handful of professional contractors and several local volunteers to drive the building project to completion.
The schedule balanced demanding work—including manual labor, running a health clinic for the government primary school and conducting community medical checkups—with opportunities for a refreshing swim in Houmale’eia’s clear blue waters.
In the evenings, the Texas youth led out in worship at the local church by sharing Christcentered messages in word and song, followed by fellowship or welldeserved rest from the day’s tasks.
A significant aspect of the mission trip is that every team member took home personal lessons and spiritual edification after experiencing Jesus firsthand. The way God was working in each person was so evident. It is truly amazing to witness how intimately God knows each of us and can speak to us on a personal level while also connecting us, through service, as a unified team. On the final night in Ha’apai, participants shared how they had learned to trust the experiences He allows, confident that His intentions for them are always good.
By Olga Falakiseni Youth & Young Adult Ministries Associate Director
Hope That Waits: Faith in Unsettled Times
The world feels unsettled. Political unrest fills the air with tension. Natural disasters arrive with little warning. Acts of violence erupt in public spaces once considered safe. Families feel strained, and many parents grieve the distance growing between generations. For many, the question is no longer whether the world is changing, but how much more it can endure.
These realities press heavily on our hearts. Faith does not require us to ignore them. Scripture never asks God’s people to deny the darkness, only to remember who remains sovereign within it.
Jesus Himself warned that the last days would be marked by fear, division and broken relationships. He spoke of violence, deception and hearts growing weary. These words were not meant to terrify His followers, but to steady them. Christ wanted His people to understand that even when the world feels unstable, God’s purposes remain secure.
It’s moments like these when the identity of God’s people becomes clear. We’re still a people of hope. Habakkuk once cried out in a time of violence and injustice, wondering how long God would remain silent. God’s
response wasn’t an immediate rescue, but a promise: “For the vision is yet for an appointed time … though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry,” Habakkuk 2:3 (KJV).
This has always been the posture of God’s faithful people, living between promise and fulfillment, trusting that delay does not mean abandonment.
For Seventh-day Adventists, hope is not tied to political systems or human solutions. It is anchored in the certainty that God is faithful and that history is moving toward restoration. This hope shapes how we live, how we love and how we endure.
Nowhere is this more visible than in the gift of the Sabbath. Each week, as the world continues to rush and react, God invites His people to stop. Sabbath becomes a quiet act of resistance against fear and despair. When we rest, worship and gather with family and community, we testify that the world does not rest on our strength, but on God’s faithfulness.
Sabbath reminds us that the same God who created the world will one day renew it. In a restless and anxious age, Sabbath stands as a sign that the promised future is still coming, though it tarries.
Our hope is further grounded in the promise of Christ’s return. This promise does not lead us to withdraw from the world, but to live faithfully within it. We do not ignore the signs of the times, but neither are we paralyzed by them.
These are heavy days, but they are not hopeless ones. God has not lost control of history, and He has not forgotten His people.
So we keep the Sabbath. We wait with faith. And we hold fast to the promise. Even now, especially now, we are still a people of hope.
By Antonio Cano Executive Secretary
David Merling Remembered for Faithful Ministry
CORRALES, N.M. – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” 2 Timothy 4:7.
Last fall, the Texico Conference mourned the loss of a beloved member of its conference family, David Merling, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and servant of God. Merling’s ministry, wisdom and gentle spirit touched countless lives across the churches where he served.
Merling began his ministry in the Texico Conference in 2007 and pastored for many years. Until his recent retirement, he served the Northwestern New Mexico district, which includes the churches in Gallup, Grants, Pie Town and Reserve. In earlier years, he also pastored at the Albuquerque Heights Seventh-day Adventist Church, as well as the Los Ranchos Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Corrales Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Beyond his district responsibilities, Merling actively participated in evangelistic meetings and special events throughout the Texico Conference, often serving as a guest speaker and sharing with others his deep biblical insight and passion for teaching. Throughout his ministry, he was known for his calm presence, thoughtful preaching and genuine compassion for his church families.
Before joining the Texico Conference, Merling served in several other conferences, including the Illinois Conference, the Alabama-Mississippi Conference, the Georgia-Cumberland Conference and the Texas Conference. His ministry across these regions reflected his lifelong commitment to teaching truth, nurturing faith and leading others to a closer relationship with Christ.
In addition, Merling had a distinguished academic career as a professor of archaeology and history of antiquity at Andrews University, where he served for 21 years. He was the curator of the Horn Archaeological Museum and co-director of the Tell Jalul excavations in Jordan. His passion for biblical archaeology led him to teach and travel throughout the Middle East and beyond, inspiring many to see the Bible come alive through historical discovery.
Merling will always be remembered for his warmth, kindness and steadfast faith. He carried a quiet strength that made others feel at ease and was deeply devoted to both his family and his ministry.
Many of you were members of the congregations he pastored, or have church members who were blessed by his ministry. Others had the privilege of serving alongside him as colleagues
and friends. You know firsthand what a kind, wise and gracious person he was. Merling’s gentle spirit, compassion and genuine care for others touched many lives and will be remembered with deep affection.
He is survived by his loving wife of more than 50 years, Stephanie Merling; his sons, David Merling Jr. and Jeremy Merling; his daughters-inlaw; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His love for his family was unwavering, and he often spoke with gratitude for the blessings they brought into his life.
Merling’s life reflected faith, scholarship and service, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
May we honor his legacy by continuing to walk in faith, share Christ’s love and live with the same grace and devotion he so beautifully exemplified.
Mortgage Burning Ceremony in the Española Valley
CORRALES, N.M. – Nestled in the historic Española Valley, just a few miles from Los Alamos, the Española Valley Bilingual Seventh-day Adventist Church stands in a region steeped in culture and faith. The valley’s story stretches back to 1598, when Spanish conquistador Juan de Oñate crossed the Rio Grande with settlers, soldiers and Franciscan friars, pausing at the Pueblo village of Ohkay Owingeh to celebrate a day of thanksgiving. From this meeting of Indigenous and Spanish cultures arose the Indo-Hispano people, whose deep spiritual heritage continues to shape the community today.
On Nov. 8, 2025, the Española Valley Bilingual church celebrated a
mortgage note-burning ceremony that reflected decades of faithful stewardship and God’s provision. The event took place during Sabbath morning services and was a joyous occasion for the congregation, symbolizing both financial freedom and the faithful dedication of church members.
The church’s journey has been one of perseverance, growth and community impact. From the early colporteurs who first shared Adventist literature in 1913 to the official organization of the church in 1978 with 32 charter members, the congregation has steadily grown in faith and mission. Over the decades, the church purchased land, built new facilities and strengthened
ministries under the guidance of pastors such as Raul Gonzalez, Jose Luque, Ricardo Castro and, most recently, Aaron Díaz. In June 2025, the church made its final loan payment, a milestone made possible in part through the sale of its former El Llano Road property.
The note-burning celebration was more than a financial achievement; it was a reflection of God’s faithfulness, the congregation’s commitment and the enduring support of the Texico Conference. Church members gathered to give thanks, reflect on their journey and look forward to the future with hope and purpose.
From the footsteps of conquistadors to colporteurs, from rented halls to a dedicated church on Bond Street, the story of the Española Valley church is one of resilience, faith and God’s guiding hand. As the congregation continues to serve the community, they remain a beacon of Christ’s love in the culturally rich Española Valley.
Texico Welcomes New Associate Treasurer
CORRALES, N.M. – Betsabe Joseph is the new associate treasurer at the Texico Conference, bringing nearly 20 years of leadership experience to our team. With extensive experience serving in various roles across the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Joseph brings a strong background in finance, administration and ministry support.
She has worked in several conferences, contributing to healthy organizational systems and strengthening the financial and operational foundations where she has served. Known for her professionalism, dedication and warm spirit, she is regarded for her ability to collaborate and support teams with clarity.
Joseph is a graduate of Southwestern Adventist University, where she earned both her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and her Master of Business Administration in finance. Her education, combined with extensive field experience, has equipped her with the leadership and insight needed to serve effectively within the Texico Conference.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, she has been a blessing to diverse communities, offering support with a compassionate and service-oriented approach. Colleagues consistently describe her as dependable, knowledgeable and committed to continuous growth.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Joseph enjoys meaningful time with family, learning new skills and staying engaged in her community.
We are grateful to welcome her and invite you to keep her in your prayers as she begins this new chapter of service.
By Debby Marquez Communication Director
Texico Women’s Ministries Unites in Faith and Health
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – “Soy hija del Rey, no soy cualquier mujer, soy escogida, amada, perdonada y llamada. Recibo esta corona como símbolo de mi identidad en Cristo. Caminaré con fe, valentía y propósito. ¡Viviré en victoria, porque Cristo ya venció!” (“I am a daughter of the King; I am not just any woman. I am chosen, loved, forgiven, and called. I receive this crown as a symbol of my identity in Christ. I will walk with faith, courage and purpose. I will live in victory because Christ has already overcome!”)
These powerful words echoed throughout the hall as women from across the Texico Conference came together for a weekend of spiritual renewal, healing and celebration at the 2025 Texico Women’s Retreat, held Oct. 24-26, in Albuquerque, N.M.
This year’s event marked the first conference-wide retreat for Spanish-speaking women under the leadership of Maria Teresa Flores, Texico Women’s Ministries director. With a new format, the Texico Conference will now alternate retreats annually between Spanish and English audiences, allowing for greater participation and cultural connection across the territory.
Themed “Vive en Victoria, Cristo ha Vencido” (“Live in Victory, Christ Has Overcome”), the weekend was filled with activities focused on strengthening the women’s spiritual, mental
and physical well-being. Early morning walks, interactive sessions and inspiring messages helped participants refocus on living victorious lives through Christ.
The retreat featured guest speakers, including Marjorie Peláez de Rodríguez, psychologist, and Sofía Delima, general director of the online radio program Corazones en Sintonía (Hearts in Tune). Their sessions centered on mental health, emotional healing and the theological foundation for living victoriously through God’s grace.
As part of this year’s outreach activity focused on heart health, participants attended sessions led by Josué Yin, who shared valuable insights on caring for the heart and overall well-being. Local women’s ministries departments from various churches also brought handmade heart-shaped pillows that will be donated to local hospitals and patients recovering from surgery, extending compassion and encouragement to the community. On Sabbath afternoon, attendees dressed in red to symbolize heart health and unity, reinforcing the importance of caring for both body and spirit.
Saúl Flores, pastor of Albuquerque North Valley Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church and Albuquerque La Roca Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, led a workshop from Adventist World Radio on evangelism through cell phones, showing participants
how to share the Gospel digitally by sending inspirational messages, leading Bible studies through apps like WhatsApp and connecting with others for prayer and spiritual conversations.
Throughout the weekend, laughter and fellowship filled the air. Women enjoyed a joyful social night that strengthened bonds and created lasting memories.
The retreat concluded with a moving consecration ceremony on Sunday morning. Dressed in white, symbolizing purity and the hope of heaven, women were reminded that they will one day receive a new name and crown. The ceremony served as a moment of reflection and empowerment, affirming each woman’s identity as a daughter of the King, chosen, loved and forgiven.
As the weekend came to a close, participants left renewed and inspired to live victoriously, embracing the truth that “Cristo ya venció” (“Christ has already overcome”).
Under Flores’ leadership, the Texico Women’s Ministries Department continues to grow, uniting women from across New Mexico and West Texas to seek healing, faith and strength in Christ. The new alternating retreat format promises to expand the ministry’s reach, providing meaningful opportunities for all women in the conference to connect and grow together.
By Debby Marquez Communication Director
El Paso Church Shares Hope Through Service
EL PASO, TEX. – Throughout 2025, the El Paso Montana Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church focused on making a meaningful impact in El Paso. Through prayer, service and outreach, the church members brought encouragement, faith and hope to the community in practical, Christ-centered ways.
One way this was done was through frequent nursing homes visits across El Paso. During these visits, members shared small gifts, sang and prayed,
offering messages of encouragement, faith and hope.
A major highlight of the year was a medical outreach crusade that served approximately 110 community members. Services included haircuts, body and facial massages, nutrition consultations, exercise routines, dental care and health screenings. In addition, church members distributed around 500 copies of Steps to Chris t and The Great Controversy
Rio Rancho Church Evangelism Efforts
RIO RANCHO, N.M. – In late 2024 and early 2025, Rio Rancho Seventh-day Adventist Church reached more than 1,200 homes throughout the local area through quick, respectful literature drops, placing the literature on driveways and door pouches. These simple, intentional methods allowed the message to reach homes efficiently.
In December, church members prepared outreach packages that included the books Thrive and The Great Controversy, the tract Love Letter from Jesus and a card linking recipients to prophecy resources.
The church also expanded its digital reach, offering The Great Controversy and Bible studies and inviting the Rio Rancho community to watch Amazing Facts Prophecy Odyssey. More than 1,300 individuals clicked the link and were directed to the prophecy seminar. The church has also maintained a strong and visible presence within the broader community. For the past five
years, members have participated in the Mayor’s Sunday Is Funday event, Rio Rancho’s largest annual gathering held at Haynes Park. Each year, approximately 6,000 people attend the event. This outreach has provided meaningful opportunities to connect with families by distributing health and religious literature and offering children’s outreach activities.
Kristy LaFrance and church elder Elgin Jenkins led these coordinated efforts. Many others faithfully contributed their time, energy and prayers, adding to the overall success of these witnessing initiatives.
Prior to an evangelistic campaign led by Arturo Quintero, the church distributed 600 copies of these books during Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). Children participated, dressed as angels, along with several youth holding signs that shared the message of Christ’s soon coming.
At Fox Plaza, a local tianguis (traditional open-air market), children re-enacted Jesus’ birth, a musical group sang and speakers shared a Christ-centered message focused on love, faith and hope. The church raffled off food baskets and toys and distributed 500 copies of Steps to Christ
Throughout every outreach and event, God’s protection and blessings were evident.
By Francisco Grijalva Pastor
Looking ahead, the church is confident that the coming year will be just as impactful as they continue to see God working in and through His people. Time is short, and the church is committed to acting with purpose and urgency. Experience has shown that simple methods, when well planned and supported by constant prayer, work best. The Rio Rancho church praises the Lord for the opportunity to share the Three Angels’ Message with their dear family, friends and neighbors.
By Robert Gardner
SWAU President Ana Patterson Announces Departure
KEENE, TEX. – Southwestern Adventist University President Ana Patterson recently shared her plans to complete her service as president, effective July 1, 2026, following five years of leadership.
“Serving as president of Southwestern Adventist University has been one of the great honors of my life,” said Patterson. “I am deeply grateful to our students, faculty and staff who live out the mission of ‘Knowledge, Faith and Service’ each and every day. I leave proud of what we have built together and confident in the future God has for this institution.”
During Patterson’s tenure, the university strengthened campus infrastructure and expanded academic programs. Key initiatives included building the Hanson Research Station in Wyoming, renovation of Moran Hall and other key facilities, expansion of the Office of Student Success, development of a Master of Science in Nursing program, re-establishing English as a Second Language and
implementing the Southwestern Union Theology Scholarship and Teacher-Student Loan Forgiveness Program. Above all, Patterson’s leadership has been defined by her commitment to support a student-centered, Christ-forward campus community.
The Board of Trustees will ensure leadership continuity during the transition period and will share next steps regarding the presidential search process in the coming months.
“It has been a joy to serve with President Ana Patterson,” said Carlos Craig, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her passion, commitment, and tireless service to the Lord and His people have been an honor to witness.”
SWAU Extends Longstanding Support of ECCC
CLEBURNE, TEX. – In 2018, the East Cleburne Community Center (ECCC), recognized Bill Kilgore, a religion professor at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU), at their annual Barrett Awards Banquet with a Lifetime Service Award. He was again recognized in 2012.
Kilgore was given these awards because he had established a tradition of bringing SWAU international students to visit children at the ECCC every week to talk about their home cultures. Each week Kilgore and one or two international students would prepare a 15-minute slide show presentation about what it’s like to live in their home country. The students would often wear traditional clothes and bring things from their country for the children to see. Afterward, the children would have the opportunity to ask questions. The feature program was a huge hit with the ECCC children.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Ignite Service community at SWAU is taking
up the mantle to continue support of ECCC during their Kid’s Night Out initiative. The first Monday of every month, Ignite hosts the program and the meal at ECCC. When Pablo González, SWAU math and physical science professor, heard about the new opportunity to serve, he told Ignite Service coordinator Susan Grady that he wanted to lead out in planning the programming for each month. Grady arranges the meal, including soliciting food donations from other local programs.
A recent program set the bar high for the future. Twenty SWAU students, plus faculty, attended the program. Select members of the SWAU Orchestra, led by Rogério Nunes, performed several Christmas songs. Five education majors did a caroling sing-a-long with the children. Three nursing students helped Grady serve the food.
Houston nonprofit El Salvador Foundation, at the request of Gonzalez, provided a present for each child.
Building on a legacy that began decades ago, the partnership between Southwestern Adventist University and the East Cleburne Community Center continues to connect students, faculty and children through meaningful service. What started with one professor’s weekly visits has grown into a collaborative effort that blends education, culture and compassion—ensuring that the mission envisioned by D. L. Barrett and carried forward by Bill Kilgore remains a living, active presence in the Cleburne community.
Southwestern Adventist University
SWAU Responds to Workforce Demands
KEENE, TEX. – At a time when colleges and universities are facing sharp declines in college-bound students, driven largely by lower birth rates following the 2008 recession, Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) is positioning itself for growth and relevance.
Academic Vice President William Smith challenged each department to identify one high-impact initiative that will strengthen curriculum, recruitment
or experiential learning.
This effort, known as the Pick One Initiative, ensures new academic offerings align with workforce needs and student demand. As a result, five new academic programs will launch in fall 2026, with an additional three programs scheduled for fall 2027.
Among the first programs launching in 2026 are two initiatives that reflect SWAU’s commitment to innovation, workforce readiness and applied learning: an AI prompt engineering certificate and a mock security operations center.
The AI prompt engineering certificate introduces students to the emerging field of artificial intelligence, equipping them with skills to design and evaluate effective prompts while
applying ethical frameworks. Texas has one of the largest technology workforces in the nation, and the growing adoption of AI is increasing demand for graduates with AI training. By embedding ethics into its AI education, SWAU offers a distinctive approach.
The mock security operations center provides an immersive training environment that mirrors real-world cybersecurity operations. Students will respond to simulated incidents, gaining practical experience aligned with employer expectations. Texas projects significant growth in cybersecurity roles, and employers continue to report a shortage of hands-on talent.
Learn more at SWAU.edu/news.
New Transition Pathway for Mexican-licensed Nurses
KEENE, TEX. – Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU), in collaboration with AdventHealth Southwest Region, is launching a new pathway designed to help address the national nursing shortage by preparing Mexican-licensed nurses to transition into the U.S. healthcare workforce.
The two-phase program begins with a 13-week online course followed by a three-week in-person clinical and cultural immersion experience in Texas. Designed specifically for internationally educated nurses, the pathway prepares participants to enter the U.S. nursing profession.
The program equips qualified nurses to transition into the U.S. workforce by preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam, building English communication skills, enhancing cultural competence and offering pre-employment training and licensing support.
“I am thrilled we can offer this program for a number of reasons,” said Kerrie Kimbrow, chair of the nursing
department. “I believe there is added value in sharing cultural perspectives. I want to add international components to our programs whenever possible to enrich the learning experience for all our students.”
In addition to coursework and the immersion experience, the university will provide housing, meals and airport transportation. Successful candidates who complete the program and pass the NCLEX will be offered employment by AdventHealth, receive full visa sponsorship and be supported through the relocation process to the United States.
“This is a partnership with AdventHealth,” Kimbrow said. “They’ve helped us so much with our nursing program in the past; here is an opportunity in which we can help them respond to the current nursing shortage. Plus, this allows us to use our spaces to their full potential. The clinical simulation areas largely go unused during the summer, and now they will
be used to support additional students and further enhance our program during the summer months.”
The program is currently open only to Mexican-licensed nurses. The university is exploring opportunities to expand the program to nurses from other countries, pending visa requirements.
The online portion of the program will begin Feb. 2, 2026, with the in-person experience scheduled to begin in July 2026.
By Darcy Force
Texas Health Huguley to Open Spine Center
BURLESON, TEX. – Texas Health Huguley Hospital, in partnership with Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, announced the groundbreaking of a spine and orthopaedic center. This new patient-focused facility on the hospital’s campus has been designed to expand access to high-quality spine and orthopaedic care for the growing communities it serves.
The new center will significantly enhance the hospital’s ability to care for more patients, reduce wait times and bring advanced capabilities closer to home.
With dedicated clinical spaces, expanded imaging and industryleading treatment areas, the new facility will allow care teams to diagnose and treat conditions with greater precision, efficiency and comfort for patients.
“Patients will find expert care, advanced treatment options and a team who sees each individual as more than a diagnosis,” said Penny Johnson, president and CEO of Texas Health Huguley Hospital. “They’ll be welcomed into an environment designed to support healing of the body, mind and spirit—a reflection of Texas Health
Huguley’s mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ.”
The 71,000-square-foot building will include a floor with imaging; surgical pre-testing; and a therapy clinic offering physical therapy, occupational therapy and sports rehabilitation. A second floor will house the Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists practice, and a third floor will house the Ambulatory Surgery Center dedicated to orthopaedic and spine surgery.
“This building will empower Lone Star Orthopaedics to deliver exceptional, high-quality care right here at home,” said Gurpreet Bajaj, MD, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists. “With advanced technology and a unified team under one roof, this facility will create an orthopaedic center of excellence that stands among the region’s leading destinations for orthopaedic care.”
The new building is scheduled to open in 2027, marking another milestone in expanding health access and specialized care across North Texas.
Texas Health Mansfield Adds Hybrid Operating Room
MANSFIELD, TEX. – Texas Health
Hospital
Mansfield recently marked the completion of its new hybrid operating room (OR), expanding the hospital’s surgical capabilities and access to advanced care for the Mansfield community.
The hybrid OR combines advanced imaging technology with a fully equipped operating room in a single integrated space. This design allows physicians to perform both traditional open surgeries and minimally invasive interventional procedures without transferring patients between rooms, improving efficiency, precision and collaboration among care teams.
Designed to support complex specialties (including cardiovascular care, neurosurgery, orthopedics and trauma), the hybrid OR increases surgical capacity while allowing providers to
deliver specialized care close to home. The space reflects an emphasis on patient safety and thoughtful design, with technology and workflows aligned to support optimal patient outcomes.
Hospital leaders and clinical teams celebrated the opening with project partners and staff who helped bring the project to completion. The new hybrid OR represents a step forward in meeting the evolving needs of the community and reflects Texas Health Hospital Mansfield’s continued investment in advanced medical services.
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EMPLOYMENT
Andrews University is seeking qualified Seventh-day Adventists to fill open roles in fulfilling our mission to "Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith, and Change the World." If this is of interest to you, please check out our current openings at Andrews.edu/admres/jobs.
Gospel Outreach is seeking qualified Adventist volunteers to support its mission of sharing the Gospel with unreached people in the 10/40 Window. If you are interested in a volunteer position, please check out our job openings at GoAim.org/jobs
Southern Adventist University continuously seeks qualified candidates to fill various positions around campus, including faculty, salaried staff and hourly staff. If you're interested in working at Southern, view the positions that are open at SAU.catsone. com/careers and apply as God leads. To view current open educational positions Pre-K through college across the North American Division, visit Jobs.adventisteducation.org
Union Adventist University is searching for a director of human resources. This is a full-time, exempt position with excellent benefits. This position plans, leads, develops, coordinates and implements policies, processes and initiatives to support the university’s human resource compliance and strategy needs. View full description and apply at UAU.edu/employment
Union Adventist University is seeking applicants for two positions in the student success department. The first position is for a student success career development program manager to oversee career development services, including coaching and advising students in calling/ vocational exploration and other related duties. The second position is for a life coach to implement strategic indicatives related to student retention, engagement and graduation. Both are full-time positions with a full benefits package, including tuition assistance to dependents. See job descriptions and apply at UAU.edu/employment
Union Adventist University seeks applicants for religion program director and professor to begin teaching fall 2026. Candidate must be ordained or commissioned to the ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church or on an ordination/commissioning track. Responsibilities include serving as program director for the religion program, oversight of the SALT program and teaching classes. Please see the job description and apply at UAU.edu/employment
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Wings of Life: Follow the journey of frontline missions in Central America as we plant churches, conduct health outreaches and more. Read the exciting stories, pray for the work and consider volunteering on a short-term trip. Follow, engage and partner with us in our mission of saving lives. Visit WingsOfLife.net.
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Biblical Study Tour of Greece. Follow the footsteps of apostles Paul and John in Greece, June 24–July 6, 2026, in a biblical journey through Philippi, Amphipolis, Thessalonica, Vergina, Berea, Meteora, Delphi, Athens and Corinth. Enjoy a cruise to Patmos, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Ephesus. Experience Greek culture and food. Visit BiblicalTouring.com or call George Dialectakis at 860.402.2247
Join Streams of Light International for life-changing mission trips! Share hope, spread truth and experience the joy of service. Be part of something eternal— transform lives for Christ and grow your own faith. Ready to serve? Visit StreamsOfLight.net .
Hone your fundraising skills at the 2026 Missional Philanthropy Conference at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tenn., July 14-16. Learn from nationally recognized experts in education, healthcare,
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MILESTONES
Gladys Old, a member of the Heber Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church, celebrated her 100th birthday on Nov. 15, 2025. She is from Tumbling Shoals, Ark., though she prefers to spend winters in Florida. Gladys has always been a refreshing presence who refuses to be inactive. She particularly enjoys painting and did a series based on Peter walking on the water, Peter sinking, Peter being rescued by Jesus and Peter and Jesus getting into the boat. She donated these paintings to the Heber Springs church, where they are prominently displayed.
OBITUARIES
Argotti, Leonard, born Oct. 24, 1932, Corpus Christi, Tex.; died at age 93. He was influential in several Arkansas Seventh-day Adventist churches: Clinton, Conway, Batesville and Heber Springs. Preceded in death by parents, Leonard V. and Juanita Zapata Argotti; step-mother, Edna Landers Argotti; half-brothers,
Ruben Flores and George Salyer; half-sister, Linda Salinas; step-brother, Donald Landers; step-sister, Shirley Sivell; and sons, Leonard William Argotti and Donald Dean Argotti. Survivors: wife, Donna Marie Argotti; sisters, Mabel Migura (Dave) of Del City, Okla.; Irma Argotti of Cleveland, Tenn.; Laverne Landers of Batesville, Ark.; daughter, Juanita Argotti Stocke (Roy) of Reno, Nev.; granddaughter, Heather Griffin (Jeremy); greatgranddaughter, Emily Rodriguez; and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.
Bieber, Doris Mae, born Sept. 12, 1935, Burke, S.D.; died Nov. 13, 2025. Church membership: Gentry Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, John and Catherine (Hull) Stroup; brother, Kenneth Stroup; and sister, Betty Veit. Survivors: husband of 68 years, Jim R. Bieber of Gentry, Ark.; sons, Jim L. Bieber (Lanette) of Gentry, Ark., and Ken Bieber (Tami) of Maple Grove, Minn.; grandchildren, Nic Cook (Megan) of Springdale, Ark.; Emily Madden (Adam) of Gentry, Ark.; Dakota Bieber (Jennifer) of Hot Springs, Ark.; Katrina Bieber of Siloam Springs, Ark.; Brooklyn Bieber of Maple Grove, Minn. and Bailey Bieber of Maple Grove, Minn.; as well as seven great-grandchildren.
Eidson, Maurice A., born Feb. 12, 1934 in Longview, Tex.; died Nov. 22, 2025 in Benton, Ark. Preceded in death by parents, Myrel and Gladys Eidson; sister, Myrleen Eidson; two grandsons; and a great-grandson. Survivors:
wife, Shirley Beam Eidson; sister, Linda Browne (Jim); three children, Julie Richards (Rick), Lisa Reed (Michael) and Tranae Brockhouse (Tim); five grandsons; and one great-grandson.
Goins, Dollie “MaMae,” born July 18, 1932, Crowley, La.; died Dec. 12, 2025, Camp Springs, Md. She held dual residency in Camp Springs, Md., and Baton Rouge, La. Church membership: Baton Rouge Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents; husband, Leroy Goins, Sr.; daughter, Cheryl Payne; and siblings. Survivors: four children, Marlyn Goins-McCants of Camp Springs, Md.; Charlotte Goins, Leroy Goins and Vanessa Goins of Baton Rouge, La.; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.
Hensley, Carolyn Strahan, born June 24, 1941, Texarkana, Ark.; died Nov. 26, 2025, Claremore, Okla. Preceded in death by parents, Joseph and Ella; brothers, Joe, Jr. and sister, Jackie. Survivors: children, Cathey, Deana, John, JoElla and Michele; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Submissions
Back Pages: Submit announcements, milestones, obituaries and address changes to Record@SWUC.org or visit SWURecord.org.
Advertising: Cost information and deadlines: Bradley Ecord at BEcord@swuc.org.
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The Journey builds on the rich legacy of the Seventh-day Adventist approach to health, which affirms and nurtures the deep connection between body, mind and spirit. Now presented as an engaging and accessible online experience, it offers a fresh way to explore the timeless principles of CREATION Life, thoughtfully applied to your life today.
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