Southwestern Union
November / December 2026
¡Artículos en español! Páginas 12–13 y 34–35
The Word That Changed Everything An Unexpected Discovery Challenges Beliefs 3 Create, Share, Connect
4 Three Missions
15 Building Healthy Habits
the rhythm of ministry
three unexpected gifts
and making them stick
Features November / December 2026
Vol. 125, No. 06
Publisher SOUTHWESTERN UNION OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS SWURECORD.ORG | RECORD@SWUC.ORG
Editorial EXECUTIVE EDITOR
GERSON PANCORBO | GPancorbo@swuc.org
Southwestern Union HEADQUARTERS
ELIZABETH CAMPS Elizabeth.Camps@adventhealth.com
P.O. BOX 4000, BURLESON, TX 76097 817.295.0476 | SouthwesternAdventist.org President Elton DeMoraes Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks Treasurer John Page Undertreasurer Bo Just VP Education Kisha Norris VP Ministral Tony Anobile Children’s Ministries Sonia Canó Church Ministries Sonia Canó Church Planting Robin Lopez Communication Gerson Pancorbo Community Services Bo Gendke Evangelism Stephen Brooks Human Resources Joel Wallace Men’s Ministries Helvis Moody Multicultural Ministries Tony Anobile Personal Ministries Stephen Brooks Prison Ministries Tyrone Boyd PARL Stephen Brooks Revolving Fund Joel Wallace Secondary Education Mike Furr Stewardship Helvis Moody Planned Giving/Trust Services Bo Just Women’s Ministries Letty Craig Young Adult/Youth Ministries Helvis Moody
Design
Conferences & Institutions
EDITOR
LORI FUTCHER | LFutcher@swuc.org
ASSISTANT EDITOR
TAMMY G. PRIETO | TPrieto@swuc.org
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Arkansas-Louisiana Conference
FRANCES ALCORN | News@arklac.org
Oklahoma Conference
TODD GESSELE | News@okla-adventist.org
Southwest Region Conference LESLIE SOUPET | News@swrgc.org
Texas Conference
TAMARA TERRY | News@txsda.org
Texico Conference
DEBBY MÁRQUEZ | News@texico.org
Southwestern Adventist University JOSAFAT ZEMLEDUCH Communication@swau.edu
AdventHealth
DESIGNER
TAMMY G. PRIETO
COVER STORY IMAGES TAMMY G. PRIETO
STOCK IMAGES GETTY IMAGES
Operations ADVERTISING
BRADLEY ECORD BEcord@swuc.org
CIRCULATION
TAMMY G. PRIETO Record@swuc.org
ADDRESS UPDATES
To change address, email your local conference editor listed above or Record@swuc.org.
SUBMISSIONS
News articles and obituary submissions should be emailed to your local conference editor listed above or Record@swuc.org.
Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Arklac.org | 318.631.6240 Oklahoma Conference OkAdventist.org | 405.721.6110 Southwest Region Conference SouthwestRegionSDA.org | 214.943.4491 Texas Conference TexasAdventist.org | 817.783.2223 Texico Conference Texico.org | 505. 244.1611 Southwestern Adventist University SWAU.edu | 817.645.9921 AdventHealth Central Texas AdventHealth.com/CentralTexas 254.526.7523 AdventHealth Rollins Brook AdventHealth.com/RollinsBrook 512.556.3682 Texas Health Hospital Mansfield (AdventHealth) TexasHealthMansfield.org | 682.341.5000 Texas Health Huguley Hospital (AdventHealth) TexasHealthHuguley.org | 817.293.9110
OUR MISSION
Equipping, inspiring, and sharing hope and wholeness in the Southwestern Union territory.
OFFICIAL
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. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists®.
2
RECORD MAGAZINE
4 8 12
Contents
Three Missions, Three Unexpected Gifts The Word That Changed Everything La fe que pasa de mano en mano
Columns 14 15 16 17 18 20
News 21 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38
Insight: A Mystery of Infinite Proportions Wholeness: Building Sustainable Healthy Habits Ministries: Your Samaria and Beyond Education: Rethinking Screen Time Kids’ Pages: Jonah and the Big Fish Next Gen: Youth Rush Blessings
Southwestern Union Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Oklahoma Conference Southwest Region Conference Texas Conference Texico Conference Noticias en Español Southwestern Adventist University AdventHealth
Back Pages 39 39
Classified Ads Obituaries
Haystacks “I’ll have dinner ready for you,” Anna Harms said as we planned a visit to her family’s home in a Mennonite community. (See page 8.) I alerted her that I was vegetarian, wondering if my dietary restriction would put too much of a burden on our hosts. Learning how to cook without pork had been one of the largest adaptations they’d made when joining the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Would pulling off a vegetarian dinner be too difficult for them? But as I took a seat at their table, my eyes lit up. “Oh, haystacks!” I exclaimed. It’s said that an important part of every culture is its foods, and for Adventists, haystacks are one of those unifying traditions we share like a treasured family secret. The rest of the world can have their taco salads, we’ll enjoy our haystacks, thank you very much. What I love most about haystacks is how accommodating they are. Each person builds their plate according to individual taste, appetite, and dietary needs. Haystacks remind us that we don’t have to be exactly the same to fellowship with one another. Unity doesn’t require uniformity. We can make room at the table for those who are different from us. Lori Futcher, Editor
ON THE RECORD
Create, Share, Connect By Ismael A. Castillo, Texas Conference President Across the Southwestern Union, we share one mission: to reveal Christ through lives of service, compassion, and authentic connection. Each conference and congregation carries out that mission in its own setting, but none of us carry it alone. In the Texas Conference, we have expressed this shared commitment through the theme “Together as One.” Its call to unity in purpose, clarity in mission, and collaboration across diverse communities extends far beyond any one conference. It aligns closely with the General Conference’s All Things New initiative and can be expressed through a simple and powerful cycle: create, share, connect. These three words describe a rhythm of ministry accessible to everyone. They also reflect Christ’s method as Ellen G. White describes in The Ministry of Healing: “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” Mingling sets the tone for authentic engagement. Jesus listened, cared, and built trust before He invited anyone to follow Him. We embrace that same posture. We need to mingle. Create With Purpose First we create, producing content that reflects our mission. Creating content is not evangelism by itself, but it is a vital way to present our message with clarity and hope. Our churches are already doing this by sharing videos, testimonies, sermon highlights, and more. By creating, we make the Gospel visible. Share What We Have The second part of the cycle is share. Our stories, sermons, ministries, and testimonies should not remain within the walls of our churches. They should be shared.
Forward a devotional, repost a church event, hand someone an invitation, or tell a friend about what inspired you. When we share, we multiply mission. We extend the reach of the Gospel far beyond our own circles. Connect With People We are living in a time when social media and artificial intelligence are contributing to increased isolation. People are more connected digitally but more disconnected emotionally. Loneliness is rising. The need for genuine human relationships is growing. This reality gives us a profound opportunity. Our friendships, whether one-on-one, in small groups, or in the life of the congregation, are becoming more essential than ever. When we connect, we meet people where they are. We listen. We care. We build relationships. And it is in those relationships that evangelism naturally takes place. Together as One The cycle is simple: create, share, connect. But its impact is deep. When we mingle, create, share, and connect, we embody the mission of Jesus. And when we do it “Together as One,” God uses our unity to make “All Things New.”
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
3
Three Missions, Three Unexpected Gifts By Darcy Force
Students set out on mission trips expecting to serve. They arrive ready to work, meet needs, and share the love of Jesus. But along the way, something unexpected often happens: The experience changes them, too. For three Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) students, recent mission trips brought different surprises, with each student returning home with an unexpected gift.
FEATURE
The Gift of CONNECTION When Xenia Kekae prayed that she would be a gift to someone during the Navajo mission trip, she had no idea a Navajo family would end up accidentally celebrating her birthday with her, and that wasn’t even the biggest surprise waiting for her on the reservation. Kekae first heard about SWAU’s annual Navajo mission trip in her first class on her first day as a freshman. Immediately after signing up, Kekae turned to a mission-trip tradition between her and God. Heavenly Father, she prayed, please prepare my heart for a divine appointment, and prepare at least one other heart—so that You can truly touch another soul through me. She also decided to bring a copy of Steps to Christ with her in case there was someone she was impressed to share it with. Kekae was assigned to work at the Senior Center with members of the Navajo Nation. On her first day, she met a Navajo husband and wife, Leonard and Cindy, and their 14-year-old son, Lenox. As part of the programming, Kekae gave a presentation on her home country of Papua New Guinea. After she finished, the family approached her and started asking her more questions. Leonard asked, “What kind of houses do you live in?” “In the villages, we live in hut houses,” Kekae responded. “That’s how we live here!” Leonard said, surprised. Kekae and Leonard sat down together and started talking about their cultures’ similarities, books they liked to
read, and the truths they were searching for. “I’m reading a lot, trying to learn more about God and how to live a Christian life,” he told her. Kekae remembered the book she’d brought to share. “I have just the book for you,” Kekae responded. “It’s called Steps to Christ, and I would love to share a copy with you.” Another one of the activities at the Senior Center was making cards for friends. Cindy made a birthday card for Kekae, telling her it was for whenever her birthday was. Kekae was thrilled. “How did you know?” she gasped. “My birthday is in just a few days!” Cindy beamed at Kekae. “I had no idea.” “You’re the first person to wish me a happy birthday,” Kekae said, giving the woman a hug. On Friday, Kekae’s birthday, she was struggling with some health issues. But she remembered that she had promised her new friends she would bring the book, and it was the last day she might see them. When she showed up at the Senior Center, she was shocked to see that Leonard, Cindy, and Lenox had brought cake, ice cream, and even some gifts. There were Navajo tacos for everyone, too. “You are a part of the Navajo tribe now,” Leonard told Kekae. Overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity, Kekae wanted more time with them. “Please come join us at church tomorrow,” she said. “I will be preaching, and I’d love to have you there.” Though the family usually went to a local Sunday-keeping church, they told Kekae, “For you, we will come tomorrow.” The family not only showed up, but they were there an hour-and-a-half early! Kekae preached on Genesis 12:1-3, about Abraham leaving his family and God’s promise to make him a great nation. Afterward, Leonard told Kekae, “That message was specifically for me. It was just what I needed to hear today. I left my former life with drugs and bad influences. This sermon was confirmation to me that God is taking care of me and that was the best decision I ever made.” Kekae introduced the family to the local pastor. In an update from the pastor three months later, he wrote that he was invited to Lenox’s graduation and graduation party. The family continues to attend study groups at the church. “I asked for one soul,” says Kekae, and God gave me three.”
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
5
FEATURE
The Gift of a THANK YOU
When Priscilla Verdugo left the island of Palau in 2025, she didn’t know when she would be able to go back. During her 10 months as a student missionary third-grade teacher at Palau Elementary School, Verdugo learned to love the local community. They were always so gracious and grateful. She found it hard to leave. So it was an unexpected blessing when she was able to join the mission trip to Palau during her senior year. Verdugo and her fellow students spent time renovating the dormitory at Palau Mission Academy and repainting the Airai Seventh-day Adventist Church. The church members were especially thankful and kind, cooking meals and treats daily for the students. “Seeing the faces light up when they saw the transformation of the buildings is something I will cherish forever,” Verdugo reflects. Verdugo’s favorite moment, though, was visiting the elementary school where she once taught. Her former students immediately ran to her, surrounding her with excited chatter. “We’ve missed you, Miss Verdugo!” “Welcome back, Miss V. I love you!” “I’m so happy to see all of you, and I love you, too,” Verdugo responded, pulling them all into a group hug. Verdugo introduced her former students to her fellow classmates. The mission trip participants handed out gifts to the students and shared about Jesus. Everyone sang and played together. Verdugo’s heart was warmed as she saw her classmates interacting with her former students. Afterward, one former student said something that especially stuck with Verdugo. “Thank you for teaching me about Jesus,” the little one said as she hugged Verdugo. “That touches my heart, that you remember that,” Verdugo told the little girl.
6
RECORD MAGAZINE
During the trip, the SWAU team was invited to enjoy the beauty of Palau. They had once-in-alifetime experiences such as snorkeling, seeing stingless jellyfish and reef sharks, and having dinner with Bilung, the queen of Palau. The president of Palau invited them to sing for his weekly prayer group in his office at the Palau National Capitol Building. Verdugo loved experiencing again the rich culture and beauty of Palau and sharing it with her classmates. But when asked what made the most impact on her, she said it was her interactions with the children. “The sweet gratitude from the kids reminded me of what it means to have childlike joy,” Verdugo says. “It reminded me again of what it means to be in service to others.”
Bilung, the queen of Palau, welcomed the volunteers to the island.
FEATURE
The Gift of CLARITY Theology major Martin Aguirre didn’t expect his trip to the Amazon would give him a clearer sense of his calling. Before leaving, Aguirre was given a children’s Bible in Portuguese to take with him. Unsure who would eventually receive it, he prayed that God would lead him to the right child. After days of traveling along the Amazon River on boat, Aguirre and his fellow SWAU classmates arrived at their destination, where they worked hard on projects like digging a well for fresh water, holding daily health clinics and inspirational programs, and handing out 208 new dresses through a partnership with Dress a Girl Around the World, an organization of volunteer seamstresses. Through all the time spent with the villagers, there was one small girl who was especially involved with the SWAU team. Aguirre decided to give her the Bible. “I would like to give you this Bible to help you continue your friendship with Jesus,” he told the girl and her mother with the help of a translator. Turning to the girl, Aguirre reminded her to “be a good example to your little sister, put God first in all things, and keep dreaming big.” The girl beamed at him. The mother started to cry. “Obrigada, obrigada,” she said, smiling through her tears. On their last night in Brazil, Aguirre and his friends sat on the beach, reflecting on their experience. Aguirre told them about the little girl and her mother. He mentioned how impressed he was by the young pastor serving 17 churches by boat. The friends talked about the appreciation they had been shown, the way the staff on the boat were so kind and attentive, and all the amazing food the locals made for them. And they talked about what they wanted to do with their lives. “This trip has reaffirmed for me that mission service is my true passion,” Aguirre told the group. “Me too!” said one friend. “Same for me,” echoed another. Affirmations sounded around the circle. “The pastor asked me to come back as his Bible worker. So that’s my goal,” Aguirre continued. “That, and learning Portuguese!” Weeks after returning to the SWAU campus,
Aguirre received a photo of the little girl and her mother sitting on the riverbank, reading the Bible to a group of young kids. Thanks to Aguirre and his missionminded friends, there is already a little girl in a remote Amazonian village witnessing to her friends about the love Martin Aguirre gave a children's Bible to one girl who spent time with the student volunteers. of Jesus. “We always think we’re going to bless others, but we always are so blessed ourselves,” says Marcia Azevedo, D.N.P., SWAU nursing faculty and trip sponsor. “It is the little moments—the local youth playing games and singing songs late into the night with our students, our students dancing in the rain with the local kids, that conversation on the beach—that make it all worth it. Watching the students just glow with their sense of service was so special to see.”
FEATURE
The
Word that
Changed Everything By Lori Futcher, Editor
About a year ago, Abraham and Anna Harms committed what they had been warned was the unpardonable sin— and they have no regrets. The journey that brought them to this moment of no return began approximately 2½ years earlier during a regular day on the job. Abraham put in his earbuds, hit play on a YouTube documentary called “From Babylon to America: The Prophecy Movie” and began welding. As he listened, he heard a word that would dramatically change his life: Sabbath. “Christianity had even adopted the pagan worship of the sun,” the documentary narrator, Attila Kakarott declared, “on the day of the sun, or Sunday, instead of the Bible Sabbath.” Abraham’s interest was piqued. He had never heard the word Sabbath spoken out loud, though he had read it in his Bible and even in the Mennonite catechism. Until this moment, he’d never even considered that the word was referring to anything other than Sunday. “I was a very strong believer in the Mennonite faith,” says Abraham. “I thought we had the truth.” From the time he was a boy, when his parents would tell him stories about Jesus, Abraham had a strong desire to meet Jesus and go to heaven. This desire led him to study Scriptures more than many of his Mennonite neighbors, who were content to accept the teachings passed down through their church and families. “I’ve been judged for bringing a Bible into the church,” he says, explaining that preachers would be offended that he might fact check them. So when Abraham heard that unfamiliar word through his earbuds that day, he did what came naturally. He went looking for proof. He looked up texts, watched more documentaries, and did research to see if there were any Christians who kept the Sabbath.
One day at lunchtime, Abraham drove 20 minutes to return home, looking quite upset. Anna was surprised. “He never came home for lunch,” she remembers. He asked if she wanted to go out for lunch, then shared what was on his heart. “Anna, I saw something that’s really, really hurting me,” he said, “and it’s making me a little confused.” Anna sat shocked as he told her about the documentary and the Sabbath and his research. She pushed away any thoughts of change. “I don’t want to do that,” was her response, and she dropped the subject. But she couldn’t stop thinking about the conversation. One day while cleaning offices with her mother, Anna brought up the Sabbath. “How do we know Sunday is the right day?” she asked. “If it says in the Bible the seventh day is, why aren’t we keeping the seventh day?” Her mother wasn’t able to give an answer that satisfied Anna. It was the same with others they asked. Abraham and Anna were told the Mennonites worship on Sunday because of Christ’s resurrection. Sometimes their questions were ignored altogether. Meanwhile, these questions were straining relationships, and Anna felt stuck between love for her husband and devotion to her parents. “He’s wrong,” family members told her. “He’s trying to brainwash you.”
Dangerous Detours
Feeling the need to spend some time away to think clearly, Anna concocted a secret plan. While Abraham was at work, she would leave her daughter with her parents and disappear for a week or two. But her plan was interrupted when Abraham had an accident that morning, totaling one of their vehicles. He had to take their remaining pickup to work, leaving Anna without transportation.
FEATURE Not long afterward, Anna discovered she was pregnant. Looking back, she sees that as a reason God may have kept her from leaving. That afternoon brought more pressure. Anna’s mother came over to give her a lecture. “You see what happens when you do this nonsense?” she told her daughter, connecting the accident to their new beliefs. “God is punishing you.” Anna’s mother accused Abraham of trying to drag Anna away from her family and into a dark place. “If we had known this would happen,” she said, “We would never have given Abraham our blessing to marry you.” The words hurt. “I loved him and wanted to be with him,” Anna says, “and that hurt me.” The words hurt Abraham too. Abraham wanted to be a good husband, a good son-in-law. But the questions wouldn’t leave. “If we keep doing what our parents taught us, we will be saved,” others reassured him, but he didn’t see how he could put tradition above the Bible. “I never felt peace anymore,” he says. “I couldn’t handle it all.” One weekend, Abraham went team roping with friends. When they finished early, the horses were put away and the drinking began. It was common for him to drink with his friends, but he usually stopped before getting drunk. On this night, he didn’t. “I don’t even remember much of that night other than I came home drunk,” he says. Seeing her husband in that condition shifted something in Anna. Though still unconvinced about the Sabbath, she didn’t want to see her husband destroy himself over the inner turmoil he was facing. If I don’t try this out, I’m going to lose him, she thought. He’s going to start drinking. It’s going to go downhill. So Anna began doing what Abraham had already done. She studied. She watched documentaries that Abraham sent her. She did her own research. She read her Bible and prayed. And slowly, the conclusion she had resisted became harder to avoid.
10
RECORD MAGAZINE
Abraham Harms continues to live in the Mennonite community, where he hopes to share his new faith.
“There’s no way around it,” she says. For Abraham, the night he got drunk brought a decision of his own. “I saw the evil and I wanted the good,” he says. “That’s the night that changed everything.” He was done drinking. And he was ready to follow where he believed God was leading.
A Different Kind of Saturday
Before visiting an Adventist church, Abraham and Anna tried keeping their first Sabbath at home. They got up, made coffee, sat down with their Bibles, and studied. Then they went outside and spent time with their animals and in nature. For Abraham, the quiet day felt different. “That was the point where God was really leading,” he says. But Sabbath presented a problem. Saturdays were part of his work schedule. He told his manager he didn’t want to work on Sabbath and began praying that if what he had discovered was really truth, God would show him how to live it. Then work slowed down. Employees who normally worked until 6 p.m. were being sent home around 3 p.m. Abraham approached his manager with an idea: Why not work Monday through Friday and take Saturdays off? His manager agreed. Eventually the slowdown became severe enough that workers were laid off, and Abraham moved into construction, where he could work Monday through Friday. Later, when an employer offered him an extra $300 to work on Saturday, Abraham declined. Meanwhile, the couple began looking for a church. Their first stop was a
small Seventh-day Adventist congregation in Hobbs, N.M., about 30 minutes away. They appreciated the worship but, accustomed to a larger congregation, didn’t quite feel at home. Then they found the Lubbock Seventh-day Adventist Church, more than an hour from their home. They were nervous. Their first Sabbath, they stayed for the service and slipped out before people could talk with them. But not before they noticed something: People welcomed them. “They were so sweet,” Anna remembers. When Abraham and Anna returned to their vehicle, Abraham had something to say: “That’s the love of Jesus right there.” For a time, they continued attending both the Old Colony Mennonite church and the Adventist church, still trying to sort out what they believed. Abraham decided to conduct a little experiment. He would count how many times Scripture was referenced during each service. At the Mennonite church, he could keep track on one hand. At the Adventist church, he lost count. Anna noticed other differences. There were instruments—piano and violin—unlike the unaccompanied singing she had grown up with. Children were included in the worship service. And the family could sit together instead of men and women sitting on opposite sides of the church. By their second visit, Pastor Raul Alvarez caught them before they could slip away. The young couple wasn’t used to a pastor making a point of finding them just to talk. “When I first walked into that church, you could see the love of God in him,” Anna says of Alvarez.
FEATURE
At first Anna Harms wasn't sure about her husband's new ideas, but she joyfully joined him in baptism a couple years later.
They kept making the long drive back every Sabbath.
The Unpardonable Sin
Accepting the Sabbath was one thing, baptism was another. Abraham and Anna had already been baptized in the Mennonite church, where water had been poured over their heads in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. But as they studied Scripture, they became convinced that they should be baptized by immersion into the Seventh-day Adventist Church. There was one terrifying problem. They had been taught that being baptized again could close heaven’s door to them—that rebaptism was the unpardonable sin. The warning had been planted deeply enough that even after becoming convinced of what the Adventist Church teaches, they hesitated. “Give us some time,” the couple requested of Alvarez. Abraham was ready for baptism first, but he wanted to wait for Anna so they could be baptized together. They did decide, however, to dedicate their daughters in the Adventist church. The very same Sabbath their girls were dedicated, Abraham and Anna made the decision to get baptized. That’s when the vehicle problems began. Their pickup developed engine trouble. The diesel truck they used for the long drive to church suffered multiple tire blowouts, including one on a Sabbath morning. The repeated obstacles felt like more than just bad luck. During the week that they planned to be baptized, Anna’s family invited them over specifically to talk about rebaptism, even though they knew nothing of Abraham and Anna’s plans. It was the
unpardonable sin, they were reminded. Heaven’s door would be locked. That night, Abraham walked outside to the area where they kept their farm animals. He climbed onto the roof of a sheep shed and sat beneath the stars. He stayed there until midnight, praying. Are we wrong? he asked God. He wanted a sign. He wanted certainty. Instead, Bible verses about baptism began coming to mind. Abraham climbed down convinced that the obstacles weren’t warnings from God to stop. They were satanic attempts to keep Abraham and Anna from following what they had become convinced Scripture taught. The decision was made. They would be baptized.
A New Family
On baptism day, Alvarez told Abraham and Anna that their church would be their family. After the baptism, Alvarez invited church members to come to the baptistry to greet the couple. Nearly the entire church came forward, one by one. That day the fears Abraham had been battling were quieted. He often wondered what would happen if he died in an accident, knowing what God wanted him to do but refusing to do it. After baptism, that fear was gone. “I finally have that peace,” he says. Today, Abraham and Anna still live in the community that shaped them. Anna still wears the traditional head covering. Their rural home reflects other parts of their heritage they cherish— animals, a garden, and an appreciation for self-sufficiency. Abraham has since started his own construction business, helped by loans from his brother and father to buy
tools. Running his own company now gives him control over his schedule— and his Sabbaths. Their relationships with their families have also improved. That is significant to Abraham and Anna because leaving the Mennonite faith usually means leaving the community as well. In fact, many are reluctant to question traditional beliefs because they fear being denied or pushed away. Abraham and Anna chose a different path. After a period of tension, they made it clear that they wanted to remain connected with their families, but that connection would require acceptance on both sides. Eventually, they found a way forward. “Let’s make peace and hang out,” Anna said. Today, that’s what they do. They vacation with family, spend time with their parents and friends, and are raising their daughters to speak Pennsylvania Dutch so they can communicate with their grandparents. There are still subjects some relatives would rather not discuss—and an occasional side-eye, Anna admits—but they have remained part of the community. Abraham believes those relationships may someday give him an opportunity to reach people within the Mennonite community in a way that an outsider could not. He has even told Alvarez he wonders whether God may someday call him into ministry to the Mennonites. Alvarez believes this may very well be the young family’s calling “They still look Mennonite, but they have different beliefs now,” he says. “When they go back to their communities, they can share the truth with those who look like them.” For years, Abraham says, he had sensed something was missing from his faith, even though he couldn’t identify what it was. Not anymore. “I don’t feel like there’s anything missing,” he says. “I feel like we found that missing piece.”
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
11
La fe que pasa de mano en mano Por Priscila Pancorbo
Lissy Alvarado regresó a la iglesia de la mano de su hija. Edil Funes encontró una comunidad que lo hizo sentirse parte de ella. Antes de que ambos fueran bautizados, otras personas ya los acompañaban con sus oraciones. Lissy Alvarado creció asistiendo a la Iglesia Adventista desde muy pequeña en su país natal, Honduras. Sin embargo, su llegada a Estados Unidos marcó un antes y un después en su relación con la iglesia. “No es que quieras alejarte, pero atraviesas situaciones muy difíciles y, cuando no tienes estabilidad, a veces terminas trabajando los sábados”, reconoce Lissy. “Hubo un momento en que no tenía dinero ni para pagar la renta. Mi niña y yo acabamos durmiendo en un carro prestado”. Mientras Lissy trabajaba, su madre cuidaba de sus dos hijas y las llevaba a la iglesia los sábados. Con el tiempo, las niñas empezaron a cambiar: estaban más alegres, y una de ellas ya no sufría ataques de ansiedad y miedo.
12
RECORD MAGAZINE
La primera vez que Lissy vio a su hija pasar al frente para cantar, sintió una profunda nostalgia. Recordó lo que había significado para ella formar parte de una iglesia a esa edad y le hizo una promesa a Dios: si conseguía tener los sábados libres, regresaría y apoyaría a su hija en todo lo que quisiera hacer para continuar creciendo en la fe. A medida que pasaba el tiempo, Lissy se involucraba cada vez más y colaboraba en todo tipo de actividades, mientras su madre y su padrastro continuaban orando por ella. El pastor también la visitaba con frecuencia y la animaba, asegurándole que podría ser una gran líder en la iglesia. Cuando su hija mayor le confesó que quería bautizarse, Lissy decidió que ella también quería regresar
El pastor Nimrod Acosta entrega una Biblia a Lissy Alvarado y a su hija Yenedith el día de su bautismo.
REPORTAJE oficialmente a la iglesia. Sin embargo, necesitaba tiempo: antes de bautizarse junto a su hija, debía casarse con el padre de sus hijas. El tiempo pasaba y nada cambiaba. Lissy recuerda cómo su hija oraba y lloraba, recordándole que aún esperaba que pudieran dar ese paso juntas. Un día, el padrastro de Lissy le contó que había llegado un pedido de batas bautismales y que una de ellas estaba destinada a su hija. Lissy respondió que faltaba otra, revelando así una decisión que aún no había compartido: ella también quería bautizarse. “No, la tuya ya la tenemos. La guardamos desde hace mucho tiempo”, le aseguró el pastor. Sus palabras sorprendieron a Lissy, quien hasta ese momento solo sabía que estaban orando por ella. Finalmente, en noviembre de 2024, Lissy y su hija fueron bautizadas juntas. “Fue algo muy bonito: la emoción de ver a mi hija bautizarse, entregar su vida a Dios y, detrás de ella, me tocó a mí. Fue algo muy especial”, recuerda. “Volví a la iglesia gracias a mi hija. Ella me llevó de regreso al lugar al que siempre pertenecí”, reconoce Lissy con orgullo.
Una comunidad de fe
A Edil Funes lo invitaron a asistir a una campaña evangelística en la Iglesia Adventista Hispana de Baton Rouge. Su historia podría haber sido muy distinta si los miembros de la iglesia no hubieran tomado la iniciativa de acercarse a él. Poco a poco, comenzaron a integrarlo y a confiarle responsabilidades. Eso marcó la diferencia, recuerda Edil. “Empezaron a tenerme en cuenta. Me invitaron a servir como diácono, a ayudar en la iglesia y contaban conmigo. Me fueron enseñando y, poco a poco, me encariñé con la gente”. Para Edil, formar parte de una iglesia no era nada nuevo, pues anteriormente había sido miembro de otras denominaciones, pero esta vez, algo era diferente. Lo atrajeron no solo la calidez humana de sus miembros, sino también la sensación de estar aprendiendo constantemente.
Izquierda: El pastor Nimrod Acosta, a la izquierda, acompaña a Edil Funes durante su bautismo. Arriba a la Derecha: El Dr. Leonardo Meléndez, director de ministerios de iglesia de la Asociación de Arkansas-Luisiana, muestra una de las “túnicas de fe”. Abajo a la Derecha: Varios miembros de iglesia reciben las túnicas que entregarán a quienes inviten.
Hace casi dos años, Edil decidió bautizarse. Afirma que lo que más influyó en su decisión fue descubrir una enseñanza en cada predicación, aprender más de la Biblia y afianzar su compromiso con la iglesia. Recuerda aquel 9 de noviembre como un día “muy bonito”. “Sabía lo que estaba haciendo”, asegura.
Orar, acompañar y compartir
Pero lo que quizá Edil desconocía era que alguien había estado orando por él mucho antes de que comenzara a estudiar la Biblia y decidiera bautizarse. Así funciona Túnicas de Fe, una iniciativa de la Conferencia de Arkansas-Luisiana que busca movilizar a los miembros de iglesia para ser y hacer discípulos. El proceso comienza eligiendo a una persona por quien orar. Después, se le ofrecen estudios bíblicos y, cuando está lista para bautizarse, se le entrega una “túnica de fe”. A diferencia de lo que ocurre con las batas bautismales tradicionales, estas no permanecen en la iglesia, sino que pasan de una persona a otra. Una misma túnica puede formar parte de muchos testimonios. Para dejar constancia de ese recorrido, algunas iglesias han comenzado a escribir en la parte posterior los nombres de
quienes se han bautizado con ella. La iniciativa, que comenzó en las iglesias hispanas y posteriormente se extendió a las iglesias de habla inglesa, ha tenido una gran acogida. “A veces no tengo suficientes túnicas y debo pedir más para enviarlas a las iglesias. Los miembros se comprometen porque sienten que finalmente tienen una razón para servir”, afirma Leonardo Meléndez, director de ministerios de iglesia en la conferencia de Arkansas-Luisiana. Edil todavía conserva la túnica de fe con la que se bautizó; asegura que por ahora no se ha dado la oportunidad de entregarla a otra persona, pero no pierde la esperanza; sabe que el día llegará. Lejos de desanimarse, continúa estudiando la Biblia para sentirse más preparado y seguro al compartir la Palabra de Dios con otros. Lissy y su hija también conservan sus túnicas, esperando el momento de entregárselas a otras personas. Al mirar atrás, Lissy reconoce que solo Dios sabe por qué suceden las cosas y asegura que ha regresado a la iglesia más motivada que nunca. Allí puede dejar a un lado las dificultades y concentrarse “en aprender, servir a Dios y ayudar a más personas a conocerlo”.
NOVIEMBRE/DICIEMBRE 2026
13
INSIGHT
A Mystery of Infinite Proportions By Endi Stojanovic, Assistant Professor, Department of Religion, Southwestern Adventist University This means that having a relationship For all we’ve learned about the uniwith God will always involve some mysverse, some of its biggest mysteries tery. The more we walk with Him, learn remain unsolved. How did our moon of Him and understand Him, the closer form? Where did the water on Mars our relationship will become. But this go? What exactly are dark matter and does not mean we will ever be able to dark energy? say we know Him fully. After all, knowThese are just some of the mystering God is at the heart of eternal life. ies Astronomy magazine editor David (See John 17:3.) Eicher explored in his 2024 article “10 We can confidently accept what Modern Mysteries of the Universe.” God has revealed about Himself, but And no doubt, as research provides we must be careful not to make answers to some of these questions, dogma out of things He has not those answers will raise a host of new revealed. questions along the way. Scripture describes God Life is full of mysScan the QR code to as a plurality. This notion tery. The more we watch a video. is revealed in the understand, the more Old Testament and we realize how little becomes even more we know. explicit in the New This illustrates an Testament. important principle: I The Bible teaches don’t have to underthat the Father, the stand something fully Son (Jesus Christ), in order to appreciate it or even use it. and the Holy Spirit For example, I understand, in a genare God. Thus, eral sense, how my vacuum cleaner there are three disworks, but I'm not familiar with every tinct, self-sufficient, component. Even if I were, I might not coequal, fully divine understand what each component Persons who make up does. But this doesn’t mean I can't plug the one God (the tri-unity). it in and use it effectively to make my Scripture also does not life a little cleaner. teach that there are degrees In a similar way, when it comes to of divinity. There is no greater understanding God, we should recogGod or lesser God. There is only nize that we will never fully understand one God, and this God is three who He is. But that doesn't mean Persons. we cannot engage in a The difficulty for us is meaningful and real that we often equate relationship with Him. The Being one being with one In fact, we should person because expect that the who created all we intuitively think Being who created things would about human all things, including be far more beings. Perhaps the still-mysterious the best biblical complexities of the complex than His example for helping human mind and creatures. us understand how body, would be far something can be both more complex than His one and more than one is creatures.
14
RECORD MAGAZINE
marriage. Genesis tells us that the two “become one flesh,” Genesis 2:24. Two distinct individuals can, in a different sense, become one. The doctrine of the Trinity is not logically contradictory, but exactly how God can be both one and three remains a mystery.
Thankfully, I don’t have to understand exactly how God is one and three to have a relationship with Him. Just as mysteries in the universe do not prevent us from exploring and appreciating it, the mystery of God does not prevent us from knowing, trusting, and loving Him.
WHOLENESS
Building Sustainable Healthy Habits By AdventHealth Creating lasting health changes requires building habits that support a person through every season of life. While many people start new routines with the best intentions, it can feel discouraging when motivation fades or life gets in the way. Sustainable habits aren’t built on willpower alone; they’re shaped by our environments, our emotions, and the small, consistent choices we make each day. “The biggest misconception is that habits are built through motivation, when, in reality, they’re built through repetition in a consistent environment,” says Emily Goldenberg, behavioral health therapist at AdventHealth. “Research shows that habits form when a behavior is repeated in a stable context until it becomes automatic.” This process can take a person anywhere from two to five months to complete, depending on complexity and environment. Most people realize that the more complex a behavior (or action) is, the longer it can take for a habit to form. But what some people don’t realize is that the consistency of their environment matters just as much. “Much of daily behavior is automatic and triggered by cues like time of day, location, or emotional state,” says Goldenberg. “When people try to build habits without adjusting their environment, they rely on willpower alone—and willpower is an unreliable fuel source. Relying on a supportive environment can help when motivation isn’t there.” Most routines fail because they are built on motivational surges, rather than sustainable systems. Motivation is a spark, not a complete strategy. It fluctuates with stress, sleep, mood, and life demands. That initial enthusiasm can feel like a great way to get started, but it can lead to choosing routines that require too much effort, time, or mental energy. If something is too intense, too time-consuming, or too restrictive, once the novelty wears off, many people will find it to be a burden rather than a sustainable habit.
Why Healthy Habits Fail The first few weeks are the fragile phase of habit formation. Without environmental support and small, repeatable actions, most routines collapse. Common reasons a habit may fail: All-or-nothing thinking: One missed workout becomes, “I messed up, so why bother.” Instead, give yourself grace, practice self-compassion, and start again. Not enough repetition: Habits need time and consistency before they become automatic. Rigid rules: It’s too easy to break these rules when life gets busy. Too much change at once: Large changes that require a lot of effort are unsustainable.
habits are simple, flexible, and connected to everyday Designing a Habit That Survives Resilient routines. Here are four steps to support new habits long-term.
1
Make the habit small:
Small habits will eventually stack up over time, leading to change.
2
Anchor your habit to a universal cue:
Tie it to something that happens every day regardless of location.
3
Create environmental backups:
Travel kits, pre-packed snacks, and digital reminders can help maintain a routine.
4
Plan for worst-case scenarios:
Make your busiest or most stressful day the baseline when planning a new habit.
Remember: lasting change doesn't come from being perfect. It comes from showing up consistently, even in small ways.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
15
MINISTRIES
Your Samaria and Beyond By Tony Anobile, Southwestern Union Vice President for Ministerial and Multicultural Ministries The students had spent their days praying for the people attending their meetings, studying their sermons, and practicing them. Many began the experience afraid of preaching and unsure of what would happen. Then, Glassford said, they discovered that God was ready to use them. And people responded. At one site, a Catholic priest who had studied at the Vatican chose to follow the biblical truths he was learning, despite knowing the decision could cost him his job and reputation. At other sites, people thanked the students for traveling so far to tell them about a God who loved Our ministry doesn’t end at the church doors.
As we’ve been studying Acts 1:8, I’ve suggested that Jerusalem can represent our homes and Judea our churches. Now let’s look at Samaria, which to me represents the community at large. What are we doing as individual members to reach the communities where we live, work, and go to school? I’ve heard numerous reasons why we should be low-key in how we approach witnessing. “I don’t want to be labeled a fanatic,” is a popular one. Or, “I’m not sure how my co-worker will take it if I share the Gospel.” But what if we could look into the future and see all the opportunities we’ve missed? I seriously wonder how many opportunities I have missed because I was in a rush, thought it would be awkward, or simply let the moment pass. I don’t believe we have time to worry about it being awkward! The time to share the Gospel is now, and the evangelists are you and me. In Jesus’ day, Samaria wasn’t the place most people would have chosen to evangelize, but that is exactly where Jesus told His followers they needed to go. It wasn’t going to be easy or
16
RECORD MAGAZINE
popular, but the Gospel needed to be shared with everyone. It may not be easy today either, but it is still our task as Christ’s disciples. We must use our God-given gifts and talents to further God’s kingdom. That’s evangelism. But Jesus didn’t stop there. He sent His followers “to the ends of the earth.” I’m proud to be part of a worldwide church. I’m a fifth-generation Seventh-day Adventist because a missionary was willing to travel halfway around the world to share the Gospel. Several years ago, my friend Karen Glassford, now global director of Adventist World Radio’s Centers of Digital Evangelism, shared with me some of her experiThe time to ences coordinating ShareHim share the mission trips. She described Gospel is them and had a plan taking groups of young peofor their lives. ple to places such as Panama, now! The places we’re the Dominican Republic, and called to witness to may Venezuela to share Jesus. look different from those On one trip, Glassford watched of the disciples, but the mission is the students giving their lives to Jesus same. So is the motivation. in a new and deeper way. One stuWhat inspired the disciples 2,000 dent exclaimed, “I have never been so years ago? They wanted to see Jesus happy in all my life! Jesus is awesome!” again. I want the same thing. Let’s partOthers nodded, some with tears runner together and get it done! ning down their cheeks.
EDUCATION
Rethinking Screen Time By Aaron Long, Burton Adventist Academy Vice Principal Picture the lunchroom at your school. Imagine a teacher standing over the tables with a stopwatch announcing, "Fifteen minutes, everybody. You have had more than enough food. Stop eating." It sounds absurd. That is not the question we ask at lunch. We ask what is on the plate. Is it nourishing? Is it helping these kids grow? Yet when it comes to screens, minutes are often the only measure we use. The worry so many of us carry is real. Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation put words to what we have felt for years: Childhood has migrated onto phones, and anxiety has followed close behind. Healthy boundaries matter, and some limits are simply wise.
So, you ask, what does a “nourishing” screen look like? In the classroom, technology at its best gives teachers real-time clarity into each student’s learning and understanding. A teacher can see, in the moment, who has mastered a concept and who is quietly lost, and When it comes to screen time, quantity isn’t the only thing to consider. respond that day means more than the pursuit of a rather than at the unit test. Adaptive certain course of study. ... It is the harplatforms take it further, delivmonious development of the physical, ering content at a student’s the mental, and the spiritual powers” real learning level rather (Education, p. 13). The great object of than what the pacing guide education is restoring in our students assumes. When students use the image of their Maker. That is the screens for creating instead measure we hold every screen against. of merely consuming, conWe can ask ourselves: Does this technecting instead of comparing, nology help reveal how a child learns? and helping instead of harmDoes it point the child toward what is ing, the screen stops being true, lovely, and praiseworthy? When a babysitter and becomes a the answer is yes, technology is not tool for growth. a threat to our mission. It’s one more At home, the same questable where we get to serve what is tion applies. Parents, you don’t need good and healthy, to be tech experts, but your children Scan the QR code to one more place do need you engaged and aware. Ask watch the podcast. where children can what a screen is serving in your child's taste hope and life, then set boundaries around that wholeness. This is answer. And teachers, one of the most work worth doing practical ministries we can offer is together, in classhelping families do this better. On our rooms and around podcast, EdTech Unpacked, Desmond kitchen tables. Suarez and I devoted a full episode to May we be the kind of educators and equipping parents with the concepts parents who keep asking the better and resources to get a handle on famquestion, filling every plate and every ily technology. Scan the QR code to the screen with what is true, lovely, and right to watch the podcast. life-giving, and allowing our students Here is why this matters for us eduand children to more fully reflect the cators and parents. We were never in image of their Maker. the minute-counting business. As Ellen G. White reminds us, “True education
The great object of education is restoring in our students the image of their Maker. But boundaries alone are not a plan. Sitting in this summer’s ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference, hosted by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTEL) and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), I listened as education leaders, including Chief Executive Officer Richard Culatta, author of Digital for Good, pressed past minute counting toward a better question: Not just how long are our students on screens, but what are they consuming? Quality over quantity. Scripture gives us this same standard in Philippians 4:8. Paul was not counting minutes. He was examining the diet.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
17
KIDS’ PAGES
Jonah and the Big Fish By Gerson Pancorbo, Communication Director Hey! You're never gonna believe the story I heard about this guy named Jonah who actually got swallowed by a fish Not like a goldfish, but a humongous fish. Let me tell you all about it. So God told Jonah, "Go to this place called Nineveh and tell the people they're being super naughty and need to stop right now." But Jonah was like, "No way! I don't wanna!" Can you believe he said no to God? That's like when my mom tells me to clean my room, and I hide under my bed. Instead of listening, Jonah ran away. He got on this big boat going the opposite direction. He thought he could hide from God! Silly Jonah. You can't hide from God! That's like trying to hide behind a tiny tree when you're playing hide-and-seek. Then something crazy happened! God sent this megahuge storm. The waves were ginormous, and the boat was going up and down and up and down. Everyone was super scared and throwing up everywhere! Gross. The sailors were freaking out and praying to their gods, but nothing helped. They found Jonah sleeping. Can you believe he was sleeping in a storm like that? I couldn't sleep through that! Jonah told them, "It's my fault! I'm running away from God. Just throw me into the water and the storm will stop." At first they didn't want to, but the storm got even worse! So they picked up Jonah and—splash—threw him right into the ocean.
18
RECORD MAGAZINE
As soon as Jonah hit the water—whoosh—this enormous fish came and—gulp—swallowed him right up. The whole Jonah! Not just his toe or something. Jonah was inside that fish's tummy for three whole days. That's like being stuck in your room all weekend with no TV! It was dark and stinky and slimy in there. Ewwww! While he was in the fish's belly, Jonah prayed to God and said, "I'm super sorry! I'll do what you asked me to do. Please let me out of here!" And guess what? God made the fish go “bleeehhhh” and spit Jonah out, right onto the beach. Can you imagine being barfed out by a fish? That must've been the grossest thing ever! This time, Jonah listened to God and went to Nineveh. He told everyone, "God says you gotta stop being bad or else!" And you know what? The people actually listened. Even the king! They all said sorry to God, and God forgave them. But then Jonah got all grumpy because he kinda wanted to see God punish those people. He sat under a plant to sulk, and God made the plant die. Jonah got super mad about his dead plant, and God was like, "You care about a silly plant but not all those people? That doesn't make sense, dude!" I think the story teaches us that we should listen to God the first time and not be stubborn like Jonah. And when people say sorry, we should be happy not grumpy! Also, when God asks us to do something important, we shouldn't try to run away because He'll always find us.
KIDS’ PAGES
EASY OR EXCELLENT? The easy way rarely has excellent outcomes.
Emma, Emily, and Ethan are being tempted to take the easy way out in this word maze that is in the shape of the letter “E.” Help them make the right choices by picking answer “A” or “B” and then finding each letter from the answer sentence in the maze by going up, down, forward, or backward until you reach the emoji that indicates which choice was good or bad. Note: Some of the letters will be used more than once.
EMMA HAS A BIG TEST IN HER HARDEST SUBJECT. SHOULD SHE: Sneak a cheat sheet into the classroom.
Emma Start here
OR
B Emily Start here
Study the material as best she can.
EMILY KNOWS SHE’S TOO OUT OF SHAPE TO KEEP UP WITH THE PATHFINDERS ON A BACKPACKING TRIP. SHOULD SHE: Practice by going on increasingly longer walks.
Ethan Start here
OR to be sick on the first B Pretend day of the trip.
SHOULD HE: Get the video game and pay his tithe with next month’s pay.
OR his tithe and wait until next B Give month to buy the video game.
See answers on page 40.
NEXT GENERATION
Youth Rush BLESSINGS By Lucy Ara, age 16
Something unexpected happened that pushed me out of my comfort zone this summer. I decided to join the literature evangelism program Youth Rush, something I had never really imagined myself doing. Youth Rush took place in southern California, with the first half in Riverside County and the second half in adjacent Orange County. I joined Youth Rush along with some school friends because I wanted to get closer to God, and I have always been interested in missionary work. Youth Rush took me to Southern California, where I was expected to canvass in random places like parking lots, neighborhoods, businesses, and even gas stations. At first, I didn’t know what to expect, because I’m uncomfortable talking to strangers, making this especially challenging. I prayed that God would remind me of my purpose in canvassing as I stretched myself to do the work I had signed up for. One day, I was dropped off at an apartment complex and met a woman who said she was an Adventist. After a short conversation, she told me about her life experiences, sharing how she grew up Adventist but left the faith and now wanted to return. I gave her a “dump” bag which contains all of the books literature evangelists carry, including
Peace Above the Storm, The Great Controversy, Superheroes, Answer, and Habitos que sanan. I was also able to pray for her. Later the same day, I was dropped off at a Walmart parking lot. I was nervous to go up to the next person, but I kept pushing myself. The next person I spoke to was interested in the books, but she didn’t have enough money to purchase one. Since someone had given me a donation, I asked her which book she liked most. She chose Peace Above the Storm because her mom had recently died. She was in tears, and I was able to pray for her as well. That’s when I realized God answered my prayer. And not only did He show me my purpose in canvassing once, but twice! When canvassing, I was planting seeds of God’s love in people’s hearts with the books I sold or gave away. I was helping people get closer to God, one of the most meaningful blessings I could share. This was the first time I truly felt heard by God, and I felt pure joy being used by God to help other people get to know His love. This experience opened my mind in different ways, and now I feel closer to God. I encourage you that if you ever feel afraid of getting out of your comfort zone while doing something you're not used to, remember that God can bless you in ways you can't imagine.
When canvassing, I was planting seeds of God’s love in people's hearts with the books I sold or gave away. Photo by Romel Fabriga.
20
RECORD MAGAZINE
Southwestern Union News
Retreat Celebrates God’s Work in Women’s Lives By Lori Futcher, editor One group left the weekend considering a new chapter for their own congregation. Patricia Mbola of Huntsville Seventh-day Adventist Church had been involved in Women’s Ministries in the past, but the Huntsville church didn't have an active Women’s Ministries program. After seeing a flier for the event, Mbola gathered a group of women from The Women’s Ministries retreat was a time for connection between various generations of women from throughout the Southwestern the church to attend. By the end of the weekend, they were planning to start a Women’s Ministries program at their church. Some 1,200 women filled the Frisco Conference Center Sept. For the 1,200 women who gathered in Frisco, the week18–20. The theme for the weekend was “God is in My Story.” end offered a chance to look back at the chapters God had The keynote speaker for the English sessions was Desiree already written in their lives and return home ready to see Bryant, associate director for ministerial spouses at the North how He would work in the chapters still to come. American Division (NAD) and also wife of Alex Bryant, president. Bryant shared several stories from her life including when her youngest was shot while away at school. Despite severe injuries, he survived. The surgeon commented, “I don’t know whether to call it a miracle or not.” “Well, I know what to call it,” Bryant said. “This is a miracle.” The keynote speaker for the Spanish sessions was Nessy P. Grieve, associate speaker/director of La Voz de la Esperanza. “God sees your tears, but He can turn those dark pages into something bright and wonderful,” Grieve said. “And when He takes up the pen, no deep pain can end your story.” Breakout sessions, or “chapters,” focused on key moments in our stories. Chapter 1 was presented by Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Women’s Ministries Director Marjorie Bélizaire (English) and Yesenia Schupnik from the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference (Spanish). Chapter 2 was presented by Texas Conference Women’s Ministries Director Sandralee Mars (English) and Texas Conference Spanish Women’s Ministries Coordinator Nilda Diep (Spanish). Chapter 3 was presented by Southwest Region Conference Women’s Ministries Director Anysia Archibald (English) and Oklahoma Conference Women’s Ministries Assistant Damaris Prieto (Spanish). Chapter 4 was presented by Oklahoma Conference Women’s Ministries Director Cindy Mercer (English) and Aracelys Astudillo of the Texas Conference (Spanish). Chapter 5 was presented by Nelva Chacon of the Texico Conference (English) and Sandy Home Week Reyes of the Texas Conference (Spanish). At registration each woman received a passport to fill with During the first week of September, Southwestern stickers as they attended the various sessions and visited key Union employees participated in the office's annual stations. Once completed, they received a special commemHome Week, a time when travel ceases and the family of orative scarf highlighting Proverbs 31. employees gather under one roof to worship, plan, and Saturday evening brought fun and fellowship and a fashion connect as a team moving together toward one calling. show featuring outfits made from recycled materials. As the women prepared to leave, many of them expressed that this weekend was a turning point in their own chapter.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
21
Southwestern Union News
New Studio Helps Southwestern Union Reach a Broader Audience The apostle Paul went where people gathered: the synagogue and the marketplace. In 1849, James White did the same with a printing press, sending Present Truth into homes no preacher could reach. Today, the marketplace fits in a pocket, and the church needs to be on people's screens. The Southwestern Union has built a space to help it get there. "The studio is intended to help the conferences communicate both with their constituents and with audiences outside the church," says Gerson Pancorbo, the union's communication director. The main set stands before a large LED wall that can display custom photos or video, placing a speaker in front of a desert sunrise, a city skyline, or a distant mission field without leaving the room.
22
A podcast area provides a place for guests to speak openly and naturally while the main set’s digital wall provides endles opportunities for different displays.
Nearby, a relaxed podcast area helps guests speak openly and naturally. The studio got busy fast. In its first week, the Oklahoma and Southwest Region conferences, the Presidential and Pathfinder ministries, and the North American Division all used the space.
"It's a new opportunity," Pancorbo said, "to reach some people we were not reaching before." Paul had the marketplace. The Adventist pioneers had the printing press. This generation has the screen. The message hasn't changed.
Executive Committee
Moody Connects With Bikers
Members of the newly elected Southwestern Union Executive Committee gathered at the union office on Sept. 9 for the first meeting of the new quinquennium. The session began with a worship given by Southwestern Adventist University's new president Nelu Nedelea.
At the 49th National Bikers Roundup in Little Rock, Ark., Helvis Moody, Southwestern Union Men’s Ministries director, along with other members of the Southwestern Union, prayed with riders, listening to their stories and sharing literature.
RECORD MAGAZINE
Southwestern Union News
Samuel L. Green Leaves Legacy of Service
Samuel L. Green’s life of service will leave a lasting legacy across the Southwestern Union.
For decades, Samuel L. Green served the Seventh-day Adventist Church as an educator, literature evangelist, pastor, and administrator. The Southwestern Union Conference mourns his passing and remembers his leadership, commitment to the Church’s mission, and lasting influence across the Southwest. Long before Green became a church leader, an unlikely messenger helped shape his path. During his youth, a man known as the town drunk stopped him. “Sam, you have a good head,” the man told him. “Don’t let alcohol mess up your life as it messed mine up.” Green’s journey into the Adventist Church began in 1972, when he attended three meetings in an evangelistic series conducted by Kenneth Cox. Although Green did not attend the remainder of the series, he continued studying Cox’s sermons and was later baptized by Dan Neergard. A native of Stroud, Okla., Green earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Oklahoma State University. After completing his degree, however, he felt drawn toward ministry. He enrolled at Southwestern Union College, now Southwestern Adventist University, and earned a bachelor’s degree in theology. He later attended the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. While attending Southwestern, Green lived in a small off-campus house and worked two jobs, but his needs
often exceeded the money he had available. One day, he returned home between work shifts to prepare his last TV dinner—his only remaining food. To his dismay, he discovered that it contained lard. After wrestling over what to do, Green threw the meal away. When he returned home that night, he found two homemade pizzas on his doorstep. A classmate’s wife had made too much dough and, unaware of Green’s circumstances, gave him the extras. The unexpected provision strengthened Green’s trust in God’s faithfulness. After graduation, Green accepted a teaching position at the Berean Seventh-day Adventist School in Baton Rouge, La. His connection to the area also became personal through his wife, Mary Alice, a Baton Rouge native and fellow Southwestern graduate. Green eventually decided to leave teaching and enter literature ministry in an area with little Adventist presence. His success as a literature evangelist led to a call to pastor the Albuquerque and Roswell churches in New Mexico. Over the next several years, Green continued serving the Southwest Region Conference as a pastor, stewardship director, conference secretary, and treasurer. His final position before joining the Southwestern Union was pastor of Dallas Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church. In 1990, Green had the joy of seeing his mother, Gladys Gordon, embrace the Adventist faith after she attended the General Conference Session in Indianapolis, Ind. She was so impressed by the messages and the Christian demeanor of those in attendance that she joined Oklahoma City Tenth Street Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she faithfully served until her passing in 1994. Green described her baptism as the high point of his ministry. After 18 years of service in the Southwest Region Conference, Green was elected executive secretary of the Southwestern Union in 1993.
As secretary, Green helped guide the union’s administrative work and compiled annual reports tracking membership, tithe and offerings, publishing, and other measures of growth across its five-state territory. His administrative experience also benefited conferences throughout the North American Division. Green chaired the Conference Secretaries Handbook Ad Hoc Committee and served as general editor of A Handbook for the Local Conference Secretariat, which provides practical guidance for conference secretaries on strategic planning, policy, membership records, statistics, records preservation, committee business, and constituency sessions. In 2011, Green was elected president of the Southwest Region Conference. “As a conference president, Elder Green was a kindhearted man who strongly supported the pastors by giving them what they needed to be successful in their assignment,” says Stephen Brooks, Southwestern Union executive secretary. When he returned to Berean school shortly afterward, Green spoke about the Christian education that had helped shape his life. “The most precious thing God has given us is our children,” Green told the congregation. In 2016, Green returned to the Southwestern Union, serving in Stewardship and Public Affairs and Religious Liberty. Green is survived by his wife, Mary Alice, and their sons, Shelton and Cameron. The Southwestern Union family joins them in mourning while simultaneously holding on to the hope of the resurrection.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
23
Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News
Free Clinic Brings Care to Springdale By Marjorie Bélizaire, M.D., Health Ministries/Health Evangelism Director At 5:45 a.m. on Aug. 29, the sun had barely begun to rise over Springdale, Ark., but the parking lot at the Jones Center was already filled with people waiting for care. More than 150 patients were in line for dental services alone, although the clinic would not open until 9 a.m. From Aug. 28 to 30, the ArkansasLouisiana Conference Health Ministries/Health Evangelism Department and Adventist Medical Evangelism Network (AMEN) offered a free medical, dental, and vision clinic for the Northwest Arkansas community. More than 260 volunteers, including students from Ozark Adventist Academy, made the clinic possible. Physicians, dentists, hygienists, nurses, optometrists, interpreters, pastors, and others worked alongside registration, hospitality, security, and social services teams. Some volunteers were highly trained health care professionals. Others simply came because they had a heart to serve. Everyone had a role, and one question characterized the weekend: “What can I do to help?” Patients received dental cleanings, extractions, fillings, eye care, prescription glasses, medical care, women’s health services, psychiatric services,
Hundreds of Springdale community members received free dental care.
Hundreds of volunteers helped operate the free clinic.
lifestyle consultations, and assistance connecting with community resources. Cosmetology volunteers also provided haircuts. For some, the clinic ended dental pain that had lasted for years. For others, prescription glasses helped them see clearly again. Still others needed someone to listen and assure them, “You matter.” Pastors prayed with patients, provided counseling, answered Bible questions, and listened to their stories. “I felt the Holy Spirit in this place the moment I arrived in the line,” one patient said. Another patient had lost his mother the day before the clinic. He said the clinic experience changed his mental and emotional state. Other patients said, “Thank you for making me feel human again,” and “I felt so loved and seen in this place.”
On Sabbath morning, volunteers, patients, and community members attended a bilingual worship service led by Marjorie Bélizaire, M.D., Health Ministries/Health Evangelism director and Fernando Villegas, a Northwest Arkansas pastor. As patients left, each received a Health Ministries bag containing health resources, a Bible, Steps to Christ, local church information, and details about upcoming evangelistic and health programs. For one weekend, the Jones Center had become a place where compassion had a face, service had hands, and healing pointed people toward Jesus.
Faith Sunday Baptized at Beach By Judith Newton
Pastor Laurie Dewitt baptized Faith Sunday at the beach with parents, grandparents, and church members present.
24
RECORD MAGAZINE
The Heber Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church had a very special afternoon Aug. 15 amid the blue waters of Greers Ferry Lake in Heber Springs. Pastor Laurie DeWitt baptized Faith Sunday. He had been studying with this young woman for several weeks. The church met at the beach in Heber and prayed and shared tears of joy to watch this precious young woman give
her heart to her God. The setting was picture perfect, and the water was blue and welcoming. Sunday’s parents and grandparents were there for this very special day. The church welcomed this new member into their flock with joy and laughter.
Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News
Bonnerdale Celebrates 120 Years of Community By Dennis Nooner Jr. and Frances Alcorn, Communication Director
Two generations gathered in the same Bonnerdale location approximately 70 years apart. Those in the later group gathered at the church on Sept. 5 to celebrate its 120th anniversary.
More than 120 individuals gathered at the Bonnerdale Seventh-day Adventist Church on Sept. 5 to celebrate its 120th anniversary. Returning Pastor Ryan Long and current Pastor Sergio Festa spoke about the importance of connection, with Long’s message focused on koinonia, something the church has experienced for generations. The congregation was organized in 1906, approximately 20 miles west of Hot Springs. The church grew quickly. A school opened only a year later, and by 1910, with a membership of 55, the church was the second-largest congregation in the conference. The school became an important part of the community's identity and continues today as Florence Ewing Junior Academy. Former Teacher Larry Burton presented the school's history at the anniversary event, sharing what he had learned through hours of research. At one time, the school, which connected the community , served approximately 100 children. William N. Ewing and Thomas “Babe” Lambert were among the congregation's original founders. Other longtime families connected to the congregation include the Dillards, Peckhams, Mooneys, and Weatherfords. Current church members Denny Nooner Jr. and Tim Bainum are descendants of both the Lambert and Ewing families through their grandmother, a
Lambert who married into the Ewing family. Nooner’s great-great-grandmother Ewing also came from the Dillard family, which was represented among the church’s charter members. Bainum's daughter and granddaughter represented the sixth and seventh generations descended from the original Lambert and Ewing families to attend the church, and another member of the Dillard family is an eighth-generation descendant to have attended the school. During a Bonnerdale homecoming and reunion event in the early 1990s, approximately 300 people returned to the small rural church and school, a remarkable number for a community of such small size. The physical church itself provides another notable link between generations. The current building is the fourth structure, but the congregation has never moved from its original location. The front door of today's building is within 50 feet of where the original church building stood. The cemetery, containing nearly 200 plots, provides another visible reminder of that history. What began as a family cemetery expanded as the community grew. On Sabbath afternoon, 72 people gathered for a photograph in the same location where an earlier generation had posed approximately 70 years ago. Placed side by side, the photographs tell a story that words alone cannot.
The earlier photograph shows a rural community gathered together in another era. The 2026 photograph contains a much larger gathering representing multiple generations and people whose lives now extend far beyond Bonnerdale. The photo is a visible reminder that history is not preserved merely in old photographs and records, but is carried by people. One church member, Don Dumler, is pictured in both the earlier photograph and the 2026 photograph. The anniversary prompted a larger question: What made this community endure for 120 years? Faith is certainly part of the answer. But there is another part of the story. There is connection. The church and school are places where relationships can flourish and be strengthened. The Bonnerdale experience suggests that strong institutions may be built upon people who are connected enough to care about one another and about the place they share. The 120th anniversary was ultimately not only a celebration of what Bonnerdale was. It was a reminder of what it can continue to be. The hope expressed at the conclusion of the celebration was that the community would continue to grow in the practice of koinonia. After 120 years, the buildings have changed, families have moved away, and the world surrounding Bonnerdale is very different from the world of 1906. Yet the congregation remains in the same place, and the descendants of its founders are still connected.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
25
Oklahoma Conference News
Sallisaw Church Honors Tom Neal as Member of the Year
Church clerk Gretchen Dobbs and church treasurer Doris Trotter expressed appreciation for Tom Neal’s service for the church.
The Sallisaw Seventh‑day Adventist Church recently celebrated one of its most dedicated members, recognizing
Tom Neal as the congregation’s 2026 Member of the Year. According to church treasurer Doris Trotter, every church needs Jesus—and every church also needs a “Superman.” For Sallisaw, that hero is Neal. Neal was honored during the worship service on Sept. 19, where he received a Braum’s gift certificate as a small token of appreciation for his love, kindness, and unwavering service to the church family and the wider community. Trotter shared how Neal regularly brings flowers and potted plants to widows in the congregation and how he frequently surprises the
ladies who prepare meals for special events and potlucks with fresh flowers as well. His ministry of encouragement has become a cherished blessing. As head deacon, Neal’s service extends beyond acts of kindness. Church clerk Gretchen Dobbs noted, “Tom shows the love of God. He knows the Bible and can quote Scripture and verse.” Both Dobbs and Trotter expressed deep gratitude for Neal’s faithfulness, humility, and Christlike example. His quiet acts of compassion have strengthened the Sallisaw church family and inspired others to serve with joy.
Tulsa Adventist Academy Students Build Bonds By Caroline A. Fisher, teacher Thirty-one Tulsa Adventist Academy (TAA) high school students spent five days camping at Beavers Bend State Park during the school’s annual High School Challenge in late August, giving students the opportunity to build new friendships. “The best part is getting to know each other better,” one sophomore said. Despite hot, muggy weather and daily temperatures reaching 100 degrees, the Mountain Fork River provided a tranquil setting with a smooth river reflecting the full moon beside the school’s tents. The campout featured hiking, swimming, canoeing, paddle boating, kayaking, tubing, horseback riding, and an ice cream outing in Broken Bow. Students were good sports despite the heat, gushing that “horseback riding was fun,” “kayaking was the best,” and “making meals together made me happy.” The group also visited the state park’s nature center and took a guided tour of the park’s museum. The planned community service project was clearing hiking trails,
26
RECORD MAGAZINE
Students joyfully helped with kitchen duty and had time to get to know each other better during TAA’s annual High School Challenge.
but the work was cut short when the trails closed because too many hikers required rescue for heat-related injuries. Instead, students picked up trash from a large campsite. TAA’s first chaplain, Gabriel Hernandez, led worship around the school theme, “Rooted.” Students participated through prayer, music, and impromptu testimonies about times they had felt God’s presence, even in the depths of despair. On Sabbath morning, the group worshipped with the Antlers Seventh-day Adventist Church, where TAA students led the entire service. Hernandez spoke about Job, and the congregation pro-
vided a homemade lunch after the service. Ultimately, a successful campout means students are inspired by each other, creation, their teachers, and, most of all, by spending time without electronics and more time with God. The campout reflects TAA’s core beliefs that we are family and disciples of Christ. The experience also fulfills our mission to prepare students for heaven and earth as we work through social, emotional, spiritual, and team-building issues away from the daily routine.
Oklahoma Conference News
Oklahoma Reconnect Seeks to Reengage Members More than half of Oklahoma Conference members have disengaged from regular church life. In response, the conference has launched Oklahoma Reconnect, an initiative focused on rebuilding relationships with those who have stopped attending. The hope is that the initiative will change how congregations respond when members drift away. “The aim or vision statement is to realign church culture with heaven’s culture,” says Nathan Shires, executive secretary of the Oklahoma Conference. President Daniel Ortega says Reconnect is intended to move churches beyond discussing the issue and toward action. “We don’t want to just talk about the problem,” he says. “We want to do something about it.” Local churches are invited to mobilize pastors, elders, and members to pray for and visit those who have disengaged and create opportunities for them to reconnect with the church community. The first training event was Sept. 29 at the Midwest City Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church. Nearly 200 people attended. A second training, which focused on
Guest speaker Grant Agadjanian trained attendees on how to reconnect with disillusioned or disconnected young people.
reconnecting with young people, was held Oct. 9–10. At the second event, Grant Agadjanian, president of creative media ministries, discussed approaches to helping young people rediscover their relationships with Jesus, understand the Gospel, and reconnect. “We really want everybody to know our conference cares about young people,” says Shires. "Churches that have begun applying Reconnect principles have reported that former members are returning and relationships are being restored.”
“We heard amazing testimonies of how God is working through churches that are being intentional,” Ortega says. “Now we look forward to hearing more stories about our young people coming back to the church.” Through Oklahoma Reconnect training, conference leaders hope to help congregations restore relationships and attract former members back into fellowship and strengthen connections with the next generation.
Tulsa Series Leads 10 Back to Christ By Leo Castillo, pastor
Ten individuals chose to be baptized after the Regreso a Casa series.
The Tulsa Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church recently concluded a weeklong evangelistic series as part of Oklahoma Conference’s Reconnect
initiative. The series was titled “Regreso a Casa” or “Return Home.” Guest speaker Eben Rosario presented heartfelt messages Aug. 22–29, calling listeners to renew their faith and experience God’s transforming grace. Each evening, worship was enriched by the music of singer Michelle Matius, whose ministry through song prepared hearts for God’s Word. By the close of the series, 10 individuals had decided to give their lives to God and become members of His kingdom. The congregation celebrated these commitments with gratitude.
The “Return Home” series reminded those in attendance that God continues to welcome His children back with open arms.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
27
Southwest Region Conference News
Grace Temple’s Sneaker Ball Creates Connection, Community, and Spiritual Growth By Tamara Turner and Mike Hannah
From games and photo ops to a sneaker-themed prayer wall, Grace Temple church’s Sneaker Ball helped young people connect in a creative and relevant Christ-centered way.
On July 18, the Grace Temple Seventh-day Adventist Church Youth Ministries Department hosted a dynamic Sneaker Ball to celebrate, inspire, and connect young people in a relevant, Christ-centered way. Instead of a traditional banquet, the event embraced youth culture and created a welcoming space where attendees could invite friends and build new relationships. Youth leadership was central to the event’s success. Young people helped develop marketing, create social media content, and lead portions of the program. Outreach efforts drew youth from churches across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including community congregations and friends invited from school. A powerful message, “Dirty Sneakers Can Be Cleaned,” reminded attendees that God’s grace offers restoration and renewal regardless of past mistakes. The Sneaker Ball Prayer Wall invited youth to share requests on paper sneakers and pray together, creating a meaningful worship experience. “I really loved playing all of the fun games at the Sneaker Ball,” says attendee Alexia Simone Hannah. “It was honestly a great experience that I’m so happy I got to share with many of my close friends.” Wilda Black, a youth leader from the Grace Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church in Lucas, Tex., traveled more than an hour to attend with her youth. “The youth really enjoyed the Sneaker Event and have continued talking about it,” she says. “It was a wonderful event that brought everyone together in a fun and meaningful way.” She and her youth are already looking forward to the next event. In the months leading up to the Sneaker Ball, leaders observed renewed enthusiasm for ministry, worship, and fellowship among youth and young adults. This momentum aligns with the 2026 theme, “Ready for War,” encouraging young people to be spiritually prepared and deepen their walk with Christ.
28
RECORD MAGAZINE
The Sneaker Ball showed that creative programming rooted in Christ can foster fellowship, outreach, and spiritual growth while helping young people feel seen, valued, and connected to Jesus and one another.
9/11 Remembrance On Sept. 11, Martin Luther King Jr. Christian Academy participated in “High Five A Hero,” honoring local firefighters at Station 4 and representatives from Baton Rouge City Council District 7 for their service to the community. In partnership with Adventist Disaster Response, students also assembled Disaster Relief Comfort Kits designed to support children displaced by fires, natural disasters, and other crises.
Southwest Region Conference News
Shiloh Church Focuses on Youth By Lawanna McCoy, Ed.D., Children’s Ministries Director
Entire families were blessed by the “What About the Children” emphasis throughout August at the Shiloh church.
Throughout August, the Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Church in Little Rock, Ark., placed special emphasis on the spiritual growth, development, and involvement of its children and youth. As part of the month’s activities, Patricia Goffe, Children’s Ministries director for the Southeastern Conference, was invited to share her ministry with the Shiloh church family. Her visit provided a meaningful weekend filled with prayer, teaching, fellowship, and opportunities for children and adults to grow together spiritually. The weekend began Friday afternoon with a book signing, where Goffe shared several of her published works. Special emphasis was placed on her book, Prayer Board, the foundation for the weekend’s spiritual activities. Sabbath morning began with a combined Sabbath School, bringing children and adults together for an interactive lesson centered on prayer. Goffe divided participants into four groups and invited them to rotate through four prayer stations: confession, gratitude, dedication, and supplication. At each station, participants were encouraged to think more deeply about what it means to communicate with God and to develop a meaningful prayer life. One of the most memorable reminders from the Sabbath School experience was that, in a great big world filled with billions of people, God still knows our individual voices. When we pray, God hears us. Following Sabbath School, the congregation transitioned into the worship service, where Goffe delivered
a message titled “A Life That Brings Glory to God.” Her message served as a continuation of the morning’s Sabbath School experience. Through the lives of ordinary people, we discovered extraordinary spiritual lessons. A shepherd boy named David taught us about gratitude. The prophet Isaiah taught us what it means to dedicate our lives to God. David, later in his life, showed us the importance of confession and coming before God with a repentant heart. And Hannah, a praying mother who poured out her heart before the Lord, taught us the power of supplication. While each biblical character offered an important lesson, Goffe reminded us that, ultimately, every lesson leads us to Jesus. Without Jesus, gratitude has no Savior to thank. Without Jesus, dedication has no King to follow. Without Jesus, confession has no forgiveness. Without Jesus, supplication has no throne of grace to approach. Jesus is at the center of it all, and He is still calling children, youth, and adults to follow Him. The weekend concluded with families creating their own prayer boards to take home—a tangible reminder to make prayer an intentional part of everyday family life. The month-long emphasis on children and youth reminded the Shiloh church family that young people should not simply be viewed as the church of tomorrow. They are an important part of the church today. When we intentionally teach them, listen to them, pray with them, include them, and point them toward Jesus, we help establish a spiritual foundation that can last a lifetime. As we continue to ask the question “What About the Children?” may our answer be demonstrated through our commitment to lead them to Christ, nurture their gifts, strengthen their faith, and give them opportunities to actively participate in church life.
Health Fair Serves 300 By Daniel Perez, pastor
Pathfinder participation in the Health Fair got community children excited about joining the club.
The vision for the Mount of Blessings Seventh-day Adventist Church’s community health fair was to let our community know we’re here for them. Following Christ's method of ministry, we wanted to meet people where they are. Nearly 300 people, including many children, came through our doors. About half of our guests spoke primarily Spanish, and my wife spent the day welcoming them, guiding them through each station, answering questions, and ensuring they felt seen and cared for. We gave out backpacks and school supplies, and the gratitude on people's faces said more than words ever could. Alongside meeting physical needs, we also shared Bible study invitations and literature. Seven children expressed interest in joining our Pathfinder Club. Our plan is to follow up personally with everyone who attended. This event was only the beginning. It was a doorway. And we're praying it leads many into a lasting relationship with this church and, most importantly, with Christ.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
29
Texas Conference News
Oscar Rodríguez Elected Vice President for Hispanic Ministries and Spanish Evangelism By Tamara Michalenko Terry, Public Relations Director Oscar Rodríguez is the new vice president for Hispanic Ministries and Spanish Evangelism at the Texas Conference. In his new role, Rodríguez will provide leadership and support for Hispanic ministries across the Texas Conference, working closely with pastors and congregations to advance evangelism, discipleship, leadership development, and church growth. Rodríguez brings 15 years of experience within the Texas and New Jersey conferences. Before joining the Texas Conference, Rodríguez served for more than seven years in the New Jersey Conference, where he led multicultural district ministries that included both Spanish- and English-speaking congregations.
30
Oscar Rodríguez will provide leadership and support for Hispanic ministries across the Texas Conference.
In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Rodríguez has served on the Texas Conference Board of Education since 2023, advocating for strong partnerships among churches, schools, and families while supporting the mission of Adventist education.
Rodríguez was ordained to the Gospel ministry by the New Jersey Conference on Sept. 16, 2017. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in theology from Southern Adventist University in 2011. “Throughout his ministry, Oscar has demonstrated a collaborative leadership style and commitment to strengthening churches through evangelism, pastoral support, communication, and mission-focused initiatives,” says Ismael A. Castillo, Ph.D., president of the Texas Conference. “His extensive experience working with Hispanic, bilingual, and multicultural congregations has prepared him well for his new role serving the growing Hispanic membership of the Texas Conference.”
Community Leaders Welcomed
Basketball Champions
On July 4, the Lyford Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed Lyford Mayor Pablo Morales and members of the Lyford City Council for a special service of appreciation and prayer. The occasion provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with community leaders, share biblical principles, and express gratitude.
The basketball team from the United African Seventh-day Adventist Church in Houston, Tex., was crowned 2026 Season Champion. Throughout the season, basketball provided more than just a chance to compete; it served as a platform for ministry, bringing young people together, strengthening friendships, and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
RECORD MAGAZINE
Texas Conference News
Héctor I. Pérez Remembered By Tamara Michalenko Terry, Director for Public Relations
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Leadership Training (TLT) Retreat November 6-8 Lake Whitney Ranch
Pastoral Ordination November 7 Keene
Lake Whitney Ranch Experience November 13–15 Lake Whitney Ranch
Héctor I. Pérez served for more than three decades at Adventist camps.
“He was so excited when the open-air Héctor I. Pérez, director of Lake Whitpavilion was complete. I think he sent ney Ranch, passed away on Aug. 14, pictures to everyone. We were really following complications from openblessed to have Héctor and Anabel heart surgery. He spent a lifetime join our team. I am thankful that Anabel serving others through ministry, hospican continue her ministry work at Lake tality, and leadership. Whitney Ranch.” “Héctor and Anabel were an incredPérez had a degree in computer ible addition to the Texas Conference science from Antillean University in family,” says Ismael A. Castillo, Ph.D., Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. Before enterpresident of the Texas Conference. ing full-time camp ministry, he held “Héctor’s passion for camp ministries management positions in other induswas undeniable. It has been amazing to tries. His education and skill set made see the progress made at Lake Whitney him a one-of-a-kind camp director. Ranch in the past seven years. I pray we Pérez was actively involved with the can continue his work at Lake Whitney Association of Adventist Camp ProfesRanch to develop it into the retreat censionals and contributed to the broader ter he envisioned, where people of all camping ministry through leadership ages could come to relax, enjoy, and and service. His influence touched the encounter Jesus.” lives of countless campers, staff memPérez devoted much of his profesbers, church members, and guests. sional life to camping ministry within Pérez will be remembered for his the Seventh-day Adventist Church, dedication, his generosity, with his career including leadhis love for people, and his ership roles at Pine Springs Scan the QR code to watch unwavering commitment to Ranch, Camp Berkshire, and recording of service. providing places where othLone Star Camp, as well as ers could encounter faith, Lake Whitney Ranch. fellowship, and the beauty of “It was such a pleasure to God's creation. work with Héctor,” says Randy Terry, Lake Whitney Ranch Operating Committee chair
Camp Meeting Sabbath November 14 Lake Whitney Ranch
Texas Youth Mission Trip
November 19–29
Adventurer Bible Game December 5
Conectados December 6–11 Virtual event
Engage Conference December 11–13
Ignite Youth Sabbath School Training December 12
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
31
Texico Conference News
Remembering Pastor Tobin Savage Texico Conference Pastor Tobin Savage’s life and ministry took him down some unexpected paths. From his childhood near La Vida Mission in northwestern New Mexico to careers in ministry, education, and technical work, Savage followed his varied interests while looking for ways to use his gifts in service to God and others. On Aug. 15, Savage passed away, leaving behind his wife, Rebekah; their children, Andrew and Krissy; and a legacy of ministry that stretched across several states and communities. Born into a fifth-generation Seventh-day Adventist family in Loma Linda, Calif., Savage grew up surrounded by faith and service. His parents were youth leaders at Azure Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church, but when he was in the fourth grade, his family made a move that would help shape much of his life. They relocated to La Vida Mission in northwestern New Mexico. His parents opened a trading post near La Vida, and after attending the mission school for one year, Savage was homeschooled for the remainder of his elementary education. Life outside the traditional classroom offered lessons of its own. He helped his parents in the store and learned mechanics from his father, developing the curiosity and technical ability that would remain with him throughout his life. Savage later attended Campion Academy and Thunderbird Adventist Academy. He developed a love of flying, but it was during a student Week of Prayer that the direction of his life began to change. While giving a Week of Prayer presentation, Savage first sensed that God might be calling him to ministry. After academy, Savage enrolled at La Sierra University as a physics major. As the call to ministry became clearer through prayer and counsel, he changed his major to religion. At La Sierra, he also met Rebekah, whom he married and with whom
32
RECORD MAGAZINE
he would share the many transitions of family life, career, and ministry. Rebekah built a career in special education, and together they raised Andrew and Krissy. Following graduation, Savage began serving at Holbrook Indian School, where his interests in education and ministry came together as he taught and served as an associate pastor. Yet the young man who had learned mechanics alongside his father had never lost his interest in technical work. Savage went on to earn a degree in instrumentation and controls and became a journeyman electrician. Those skills would become another part of the unusual path through which he served. An opportunity for full-time pastoral ministry eventually took Savage to Dubuque, Iowa. Later, he and his family returned to the West and settled in Rangely, Colo. There, Savage entered a season of bivocational ministry, working for Chevron Oil Company while pastoring the Craig and Steamboat Springs Seventh-day Adventist churches. Savage moved easily between technical work and pastoral ministry, the practical and the theological. Whether his work involved tools, instrumentation, teaching, or preaching, service remained at its center. Years later, a longtime dream drew Savage back toward the region that had shaped his childhood. He had always wanted to build a cabin in the mountains, and when the opportunity came, he made that dream a reality. He and Rebekah moved to Ramah, N.M. The move brought his story full circle. The boy who had grown up near La Vida Mission in northwestern New Mexico was once again making his home in the region. In 2022, Savage was invited to return to full-time pastoral ministry, this time with the Texico Conference. He accepted the call and began serving the Gallup, Grants, Pie Town, Reserve, and Crownpoint District.
Texico Conference Pastor Tobin Savage served others through pastoral ministry, teaching, and technical work.
His experiences as a teacher, tradesman, electrician, oil industry worker, builder, and pastor all informed his ministry. He understood both the pulpit and the workplace and had spent much of his life navigating many of the same responsibilities and challenges experienced by the people sitting in the pews. Savage served the district until early 2026. His life is difficult to summarize by listing the churches he pastored or the positions he held. Its richness is found in the journey between them, the different abilities he cultivated, the places he called home, the people he served, and his willingness to follow God’s leading through changing seasons. For the Texico Conference family, his passing brings sorrow, particularly for those who worshipped with him, worked beside him, and experienced his ministry personally. Yet his story also leaves a reminder that a call to serve God does not always unfold in predictable ways. For Savage, that call led from a childhood trading post to a classroom, from physics to theology, from technical work to pastoral ministry, and eventually back to the New Mexico landscape he had loved since childhood. Through each change, he continued to find ways to serve. The Texico Conference continues to hold Rebekah, Andrew, Krissy, and the entire Savage family in prayer, looking with them toward the hope of the resurrection and the day when Christ will make all things new.
Texico Conference News
Texico Student Leaders Step Up at Leadership Camp By Christian Tarbox, Pastor Student leaders from Sandia View Academy (SVA) and El Paso Adventist Junior Academy (EPAJA) helped lead worship at Leadership Camp, held Sept. 10–13 at Lone Star Camp. EPAJA students joined musicians from other schools during several worship services, while SVA students brought energy and a sense of togetherness from the start. More than 150 Student Association and class officers from 14 schools attended the camp, hosted by the Southwestern Union in partnership with Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) and its Student Association. Throughout the weekend, leaders called out, “Whose way?” and participants answered together, “His way!” The theme, “His Way,” drew from Isaiah 30:21: “Whether you turn to the
right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Keynote speaker Cory Douglas, a pastor from Alabama, encouraged students to trust God as they lead. “We don’t need to know everything, but we need to know and trust the One who does,” he told them. He also reminded them that “if we are going to be good leaders, we must be good followers of Jesus.” Through breakout sessions with SWAU student leaders, the academy students learned practical ideas and received encouragement. The weekend also included student-led worship, group challenges, and time to build friendships with students from other schools. At the “Leadership Café,” each
El Paso Academy students Eliana Flores and Daniel Kyalo were among those who participated in the Southwestern Union Leadership Camp.
school had up to seven minutes to share its gifts through music, a skit, or another creative presentation. One adult leader in the audience called the performances “off the chain.” For the Texico Conference students, the weekend offered a chance to use their gifts now while growing into the leaders God is calling them to become.
Pie Town Church Hosts Health Fair and Community 5K By Vanessa Taylor In Quemado, N.M., a community with a population of just 163, the Pie Town High Country Seventh-day Adventist Church connected with the community through two special events: a health fair and a 5K race. On June 5, the church held its second health fair at Quemado High School. About 30 people attended. The health fair offered blood pressure and glucose checks, medical examinations, haircuts, and massages, along with donated clothing and a meal. The church also shared information about the eight natural remedies and distributed literature to those who attended. Joyce Stigge, M.D., was in charge of the medical examinations, and church members felt especially blessed to have her serving that day. Then, on Aug. 28, the church held its second annual Run for Catron County
Racers from across Catron County participated in the Pie Town High Country church’s Run for Catron County 5K.
5K race. The race began early and received an encouraging response from the community. Quemado Schools partnered with the church by inviting students and their families to participate. Each runner's packet included a copy of The Ministry of Healing, while children received books with Bible stories.
The funds collected from the race were used to help families in need, local food pantries, the small community clinic, and the school's cross-country team. Whether providing health services, sharing helpful literature, creating opportunities for families to come together, or helping meet needs in the community, Pie Town High Country church members are finding meaningful ways to show God's love.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
33
Noticias en Español
Oscar Rodríguez, elegido vicepresidente de Ministerios Hispanos y Evangelización en Español Por Tamara Michalenko Terry, directora de Relaciones Públicas Oscar Rodríguez es el nuevo vicepresidente de Ministerios Hispanos y Evangelización en Español de la Asociación de Texas. En su nuevo cargo, Rodríguez dirigirá y apoyará los ministerios hispanos de toda la Asociación de Texas, trabajando estrechamente con pastores y congregaciones para impulsar el evangelismo, el discipulado, la formación de líderes y el crecimiento de las iglesias. Rodríguez cuenta con 15 años de experiencia en las asociaciones de Texas y Nueva Jersey. Antes de incorporarse a la Asociación de Texas, Rodríguez sirvió durante más de siete años en la Asociación de Nueva Jersey, donde dirigió la labor ministerial en distritos multiculturales que incluían iglesias de habla hispana e inglesa.
Oscar Rodríguez dirigirá y apoyará los ministerios hispanos de toda la Asociación de Texas.
Además de sus responsabilidades pastorales, Rodríguez ha formado parte de la Junta de Educación de la Asociación de Texas desde 2023, fomentando una estrecha colaboración entre iglesias, escuelas y familias, y apoyando la misión de la educación adventista. Rodríguez fue ordenado al ministerio
pastoral por la Asociación de Nueva Jersey el 16 de septiembre de 2017. Obtuvo su licenciatura en teología en la Universidad Adventista de Southern en 2011. “A lo largo de su ministerio, Oscar ha demostrado un estilo de liderazgo colaborativo y un compromiso con fortalecer las iglesias mediante el evangelismo, el apoyo pastoral, la comunicación y las iniciativas centradas en la misión”, afirma Ismael A. Castillo, Ph.D., presidente de la Asociación de Texas. “Su amplia experiencia trabajando con congregaciones hispanas, bilingües y multiculturales lo ha preparado bien para su nuevo cargo al servicio de una comunidad hispana cada vez más numerosa en la Asociación de Texas”.
Retiro muestra cómo Dios obra en la Campaña vida de cada mujer evangelística en Tulsa Por Lori Futcher, editora y Priscila Pancorbo
Un grupo de mujeres comparte un momento de oración.
Alrededor de 1,200 mujeres llenaron el Centro de Conferencias de Frisco del 18 al 20 de septiembre. El lema del encuentro fue “Dios está en mi historia”. La oradora principal en español fue Nessy P. Grieve, directora asociada de
34
RECORD MAGAZINE
La Voz de la Esperanza, quien compartió testimonios que ilustran cómo Dios permanece fiel. “Dios ve tus lágrimas, pero él puede transformar esas páginas oscuras en algo luminoso y maravilloso. Y cuando él toma la pluma, ningún dolor profundo puede terminar tu historia”, afirmó Grieve. Los seminarios, denominados “capítulos”, abordaron momentos clave de la vida. La noche del sábado incluyó un desfile de moda con atuendos confeccionados con materiales reciclados. Para muchas mujeres, este retiro fue una oportunidad de mirar los capítulos que Dios ya había escrito en sus vidas y regresar a casa dispuestas a descubrir cómo obraría en los que están por venir.
Por Leo Castillo, pastor La Iglesia Adventista del Séptimo Día Hispana de Tulsa celebró del 22 al 29 de agosto la campaña evangelística “Regreso a Casa” como parte de la iniciativa Oklahoma Reconnect. El orador invitado Eben Rosario animó a los asistentes a renovar su fe y experimentar la gracia transformadora de Dios. La cantante Michelle Matius acompañó con su música los momentos de adoración. Al concluir la campaña, 10 personas decidieron entregar su vida a Cristo. “Regreso a Casa” recordó a los presentes que Dios continúa recibiendo a sus hijos con los brazos abiertos.
Noticias en Español
Fe, esperanza y reavivamiento en la Convención de Texico Por Debby Marquez, directora de Comunicación
Jóvenes de la Asociación de Texico participan en un momento de oración.
Mark Tamalea se dirige a un grupo de jóvenes durante su presentación.
Mil personas se reunieron en el campus de Sandia View, en Corrales, Nuevo México, el 28 y 29 de agosto para la Convención 2026 de la Asociación de Texico. El fin de semana estuvo dedicado a la adoración, el compañerismo y la renovación espiritual bajo el lema “En su presencia: un caminar personal que transforma”. Los comentarios recibidos tras el evento fueron sumamente positivos. Los asistentes destacaron especialmente los oradores y la música como
algunos de los aspectos más significativos. Richie Halversen, director de Crecimiento y Revitalización de Iglesias de la Unión del Sur, fue el orador en inglés, mientras que Elvis Díaz, promotor y evangelista de El Centinela en la División Norteamericana, presentó los mensajes en español. Ambos desafiaron a los asistentes a profundizar su relación con Cristo. Mark Tamaleaa, orador juvenil y defensor de la salud mental, logró conectar con los jóvenes
a través de mensajes de fe, resiliencia y esperanza. La música fue otro de los aspectos destacados del fin de semana. Jackie & Friends y Arise Ministry contribuyeron a crear un ambiente inspirador de adoración. Una de las novedades de este año fue el programa para jóvenes adultos dirigido por Greg Taylor, director de Jóvenes y Jóvenes Adultos de la Unión del Sur, y su esposa, Kim Taylor. Allí los jóvenes pudieron adorar, abordar preguntas difíciles y conversar abiertamente sobre fe, relaciones y las realidades que enfrentan en la actualidad. “Fue maravilloso ver cómo el Espíritu Santo iba uniendo todo”, expresó Christian Tarbox, quien colaboró con la cobertura en redes sociales. “Sin que hubiera coordinación entre los oradores, desde los más jóvenes hasta los mayores, Dios estaba obrando para tocar nuestros corazones y recordarnos que todo lo bueno y todo lo que anhelamos se encuentra en su presencia”.
Feria de salud en la Iglesia Mount of Blessings Por Daniel Perez, pastor Cuando la Iglesia Mount of Blessings organizó una feria de salud, queríamos que la comunidad supiera que estamos aquí para servirla. Siguiendo el método de Cristo, queríamos acercarnos a las personas, mostrarles compasión, atender sus necesidades y, solo entonces, invitarlas a seguirlo. Participaron casi 300 personas, entre ellas muchos niños. Aproximadamente la mitad hablaba español, y mi esposa pasó el día dándoles la bienvenida, guiándolos por cada estación, asegurándose de que se sintieran escuchados y atendidos.
asistentes para invitarlos a otros eventos y recordarles que pueden contar con nuestro apoyo. Oramos para que muchas personas establezcan una relación duradera con esta iglesia y, sobre todo, con Cristo. Niños posan con las mochilas que recibieron en la feria de salud.
Entregamos mochilas y materiales escolares. Compartimos invitaciones para estudiar la Biblia y publicaciones. Siete niños expresaron interés en unirse al Club de Conquistadores. Planeamos comunicarnos con los
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
35
Southwestern Adventist University News
Southwestern Adventist University and Weatherford College Announce Nursing Transfer Partnership Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) and Weatherford College have announced a new academic partnership designed to create a streamlined pathway for Weatherford College nursing students to continue their education at SWAU. Representatives from both institutions signed the agreement on Sept. 3, which took effect immediately. The partnership provides eligible Weatherford College students with a clear pathway to continue their nursing education at SWAU, including opportunities to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and subsequently advance into SWAU’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Under the agreement, eligible Weatherford College students are guaranteed admission to SWAU upon meeting established requirements, including completion of the application process, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, a current and unencumbered U.S. registered nursing license, and good academic
and professional standing at the time of graduation. As part of the partnership, SWAU will also provide Weatherford College students with access to graduate advising, financial aid guidance, and academic planning resources prior to enrollment, helping students prepare for a successful transition into the next stage of their nursing education. “We are thrilled to begin this new partnership with Weatherford College,” says Kerrie Kimbrow, D.N.P., chair of the Nursing Department at SWAU. “This agreement creates a clear pathway for exceptional students to continue their education through our MSN program. We look forward to preparing these students to become the next generation of nurse educators.” “We are very excited to have this opportunity for our students, whom we believe are well prepared to succeed in a graduate program,” says Tod Farmer, Ed.D., president of Weatherford College. “We have a culture of caring based on
our core values of faith, hope, and love. This partnership with a Christian university is a natural progression for our students as they transition to the graduate level, continue to grow professionally, and embrace new academic challenges.” Nelu Nedelea, Ph.D., president of SWAU, emphasized the broader significance of the partnership and the institutions’ shared commitment to developing future leaders. “May this be the beginning of a strong and long-lasting partnership,” Nedelea said. “Throughout our 133-year history, our commitment has been to contribute to the excellence our partners are already providing to their students and to work alongside them in preparing the next generation of leaders—healthcare professionals, servants, church leaders, and so many others who will make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. It is truly an honor for us to be part of this journey and to build the future together.”
Representatives from Weatherford College and Southwestern Adventist University signed a partnership agreement in September, streamlining a pathway for Weatherford nursing students to continue their nursing education at SWAU.
36
RECORD MAGAZINE
Southwestern Adventist University News
2026 Nursing Class Achieves 100% Pass Rate
Congratulations to all 21 nursing students from the May 2026 graduating class. Every single one of them passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
One hundred percent of Southwestern Adventist University’s (SWAU) May 2026 nursing graduates have passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). “This outstanding accomplishment for the class of 2026 is a direct result of their dedication, perseverance, and hard work,” says Kerrie Kimbrow, D.N.P., chair of SWAU’s Nursing Department. “It also reflects the commitment of our nursing faculty, who invest in our students every day, from their first fundamentals course to their final capstone experience, ensuring they are well prepared for the NCLEX and for meaningful careers in nursing.” Beyond preparing students for licensure, SWAU’s Nursing Department places a strong emphasis on student retention, academic support, and individual success. Since 2020, the department has maintained annual student retention rates above 90%.
“We are grateful for our outstanding clinical partners,” says Kimbrow. “We also have a supportive university and local community, and a strong network of individuals who contribute to our students’ success throughout their educational journey. It is truly a team effort to graduate nurses of this caliber.” The achievement comes during a period of continued growth for nursing education at SWAU. The university has expanded opportunities for nurses at multiple stages of their careers through its Master of Science in Nursing Education program, Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate, and the SWAU– AdventHealth Southwest Region International English Language Learner Nursing Pathway Program. The department has also invested in hands-on learning environments, including a renovated pediatric simulation suite, made possible through the generous support of the Powell family.
For SWAU nursing alumna and current Master of Science in Nursing student Laura Gallardo, the support students receive extends beyond preparation for a single examination. “I wholeheartedly recommend this program to other students,” says Gallardo. “The faculty set you up for success.” The 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to preparing knowledgeable, compassionate, and highly skilled nursing professionals who are equipped to serve patients, families, and communities with excellence.
Scan for more news! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
37
AdventHealth News
Two New Food Pantries Serve Lampasas Community By AdventHealth AdventHealth has opened two food pantries in Lampasas, Tex.: The Jackie Baltrun and Rexann Johnson Pantry on Third Street and The Kaylee Austin Pantry: Untamed Mane on FirstStreet One of the pantries was created through a partnership between AdventHealth Rollins Brook and Girl Scouts Troop 6007. The Girl Scouts and AdventHealth Rollins Brook’s Radiology Department will keep the pantry clean and stocked. Cookie-sale proceeds and community donations will help provide food and other essentials, including
Hospital team members partnered with Girl Scouts to open a food pantry in Lampasas, Tex. Photo by AdventHealth Rollins Brook.
backpacks, lunch boxes, and hygiene products. AdventHealth team members also plan to host food drives throughout
the year to help ensure the pantry remains a reliable resource for the community for years to come. A motion-sensor solar light will illuminate the pantry after dark to help visitors feel safe. “Lampasas is a very tight-knit community and they take care of one another,” says Tanner Carlson, marketing manager at AdventHealth Central Texas, so it doesn’t surprise me when I see team members at AdventHealth Rollins Brook go above and beyond in working with the local Girl Scout Troop to create this food pantry for the community.”
Texas Health Huguley Earns National Recognition By Texas Health Huguley Texas Health Huguley Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2026-27 Best Hospital, reflecting the hospital’s focus on providing high-quality, whole-person care to the communities it serves. Ranking No. 7 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and No. 21 in Texas, the hospital was one of 505 organizations nationwide recognized as a Best Regional Hospital for demonstrating strong patient outcomes. U.S. News evaluated nearly 4,500 hospitals across 14 adult specialties and 23 procedures and conditions. Only 16 percent of evaluated hospitals earned a Best Hospitals designation. “A hospital named among the U.S. News Best Hospitals has demonstrated its commitment to high-quality care,
Scan for more news! 38
RECORD MAGAZINE
especially in achieving successful outcomes for patients,” says Ben Harder, managing editor and chief of health analysis at U.S. News. “A Best Hospitals recognition reflects consistent top-tier medical care to its community.” Texas Health Huguley also earned High Performing ratings in eight procedures and conditions: Hip Fracture; Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma; Heart Failure; COPD; Diabetes; Kidney Failure; Pneumonia; and Heart Arrhythmia. “This recognition is the work and dedication of our physicians, nurses, and team members who show up each day to provide safe, high-quality care centered on the needs of every patient,” says Penny L. Johnson, president and CEO of Texas Health Huguley Hospital. “We are honored to be recognized among the best hospitals in our region and state, and we remain focused on helping our patients achieve better health and feel supported throughout every step of their care journey.” U.S. News developed the rankings to help patients and families make informed decisions about where to
U.S. News & World Report named Texas Health Huguley Hospital among the Best Hospitals. Photo by Texas Health Huguley.
receive care. Patients should also consult with their personal physicians when making health care decisions based on their individual needs. To determine the Best Hospitals, U.S. News analyzed each hospital’s performance based on objective measures such as risk-adjusted mortality rates, preventable complications, and patient experience. The Best Hospitals Specialty Rankings methodology and Procedures and Conditions Ratings methodology measure patient outcomes using data from more than 800 million records of patient care. For more information, visit Health.USNews. com/Best-Hospitals/Rankings.
Back Pages
Classified Ads EMPLOYMENT Andrews University is seeking qualified Seventh-day Adventists who may 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. Southern Adventist University continuously seeks qualified candidates to fill various positions around campus, including faculty, salaried staff, and hourly staff positions. If you are interested in working at Southern, we encourage you to view the positions that are currently open at SAU.catsone. com/careers and apply as God leads. To view current openings Pre-K through college educational positions across the North American Division, please visit Jobs.adventisteducation.org.
REAL ESTATE Summit Ridge Retirement Village offers peaceful rural living near Oklahoma City. We are a close-knit community featuring homes and apartments and an on-site church. Enjoy engaging community activities, reliable transportation, and scenic walking. Wolfe Living Center provides full-care nursing and rehabilitation services. Contact Bill Norman for a private tour: 405.208.1289 or SummitridgeRetirementVillage.org.
MISCELLANEOUS Holiday Programs. Fill your life and home with a Christian spirit of Christmas. LifeTalk Radio plays Christmas music all through December with special concerts nightly at 9 p.m. ET, from Dec. 6 through 25. Enjoy Christmas music 24/7 at LifeTalkKids.net. Authors, transform your manuscript into a globally distributed book. Get a free evaluation from a trusted Seventh-day
Daniel R. Jensen of Claremore, Okla., was born March 27, 1935, in Taylor, Tex,. and passed away Aug. 4, 2026, in Tulsa, Okla., following a short battle with colon cancer. Dan served as a minister in Oklahoma from 1977 through 2000, pastoring in the Sallisaw, Enid, Okeene, and Claremore districts. He married the love of his life, Jonelle Bean Jensen, on November 11, 1967, in Houston, Tex. Together, they shared 53 wonderful years. Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Jonelle; his parents, H. C. and Vivian Jensen; his brother, Pat Jensen; and his son-in-law, Travis Tyre. He is survived by his children, Elizabeth Tyre of Mansfield, Tex., and Jennifer Dohlman and her husband, Matt, of Tulsa, Okla; and his four grandchildren. Dan will be remembered for his faithful service, devotion to his family, and the many lives he touched throughout his years of ministry. His service was held on Aug. 11, 2026, at his home church, First Seventh-day Adventist Church of Tulsa.
Alice Trujillo Lucero, was born Dec. 26, 1938, in Corrales, N.M., where her family had lived for generations. She peacefully fell asleep at home on Sept. 7, 2026. After Alice’s parents accepted the Adventist faith, she attended Sandia View Christian School and later Sandia View Academy. Her love for the Lord remained central to her life, and she faithfully served Him through ministry to children and her church family. Even as dementia eventually made regular attendance difficult, her family lovingly kept her connected to her church by bringing her to special events and gatherings. Alice’s quiet faith, gentle spirit, and years of service left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved her. Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Elias and Sarah Trujillo, and her younger sister, Terri Trujillo Zorrilla. She is survived by her husband, Bernie Lucero; daughters Lydia Lucero Montes de Oca (Al), Anna Maria Lucero Cordova (Leroy), and Ellen Lucero Franco (Armando); 18 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
Adventist publisher that’s been around 42 years. If accepted, we edit, design, layout, market, and distribute worldwide. Submit today at TeachServices.com. Look
for red “Submit Manuscript” button at the top of the homepage. We buy/sell used Adventist books: LNFbooks.com or 706.504.9192.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
39
Back Pages Move with an award-winning agency. Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Call us for all your relocation needs! Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Contact Marcy Dante’ at 800.766.1902 for a free estimate. ApexMoving.com/adventist Join a life-changing mission trip with Build and Restore International—serve communities, build churches and schools, and grow spiritually. We also design customized mission trips for your church or school, fully organized and impactful. Make a difference locally or globally. Learn more or contact us at BuildAndRestore.org or 916.316.8972. 14-Day Great Controversy Tour. Visit four countries (Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and France) and 60 cities. For more information, email GCTours@naver.com or call 202.714.8751. Ready to ditch big-city hustle and bustle for quiet country living? The Mount Pleasant Seventh-day Adventist Church
invites you to East Texas! Experience a lower cost of living, wide open spaces, local state parks, and, best of all, our friendly congregation! Our English services meet Sabbath mornings and Spanish in the afternoons. Bring a dish and enjoy fellowship lunch each week. Lend a hand in our community outreach projects. Get involved in a ministry. Come worship with us. We’d love to meet you!
PUZZLE ANSWERS FROM PAGE 19
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. News and Articles: Send church or school news, with high-resolution photos, to Record@swuc.org.
ANYONE
She's a Teacher. She's a neighbor. She's a volunteer. She's ACS.
40
RECORD MAGAZINE
CAN BE
Back Pages
The North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists Nondiscrimination Policy Statement For Adventist Schools
The Seventh-day Adventist Church, in all of its church schools, admits students of any race to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools, and makes no discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnic background, country of origin, or gender in the administration of education policies, applications for admission, scholarship or loan programs, and extracurricular programs. Southwestern Union academies, and elementary/junior academies for the 2026-2027 school year are listed below. ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE
TEXAS CONFERENCE
Bentonville SDA School.................................2522 SE 14th St., Bentonville, AR 72712
Advent Ridge Academy......................1523 Old Ranch Rd. 12, San Marcos, TX 78666
Ewing Adventist Jr. Academy...... 709 Adventist Church Rd., Bonnerdale, AR 71933
Burleson Adventist School...................................1635 Fox Lane, Burleson, TX 76028
Greater New Orleans Christian Academy......... 5220 Irving St., Metairie, LA 70006
Burton Adventist Academy...................... 4611 Kelly-Elliott Rd., Arlington, TX 76017
Harrison SDA School.................................. 4877 Hwy. 392 West, Harrison, AR 72601
Chisholm Trail Academy...............................................P.O. Box 717, Keene, TX 76059
Hot Springs Adventist School.......................401 Weston Rd., Hot Springs, AR 71913
Cleburne Adventist Christian School.......111 Meadowview Dr., Cleburne, TX 76033
Little Rock Adventist Academy............ 8708 Rodney Parham, Little Rock, AR 72205
Coggin Memorial School....................... 6645 Downing St., Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Ozark Adventist Academy....................20997 Dawn Hill East Rd., Gentry, AR 72734
Conroe Adventist Academy.......................... 3601 S. Loop 336 E., Conroe, TX 77301
Ozark Adventist School......................... 21150 Dawn Hill East Rd., Gentry, AR 72734
Cypress Bend Adventist Elementary School....... 2997 FM 728, Jefferson, TX 75657
Shreveport Adventist Christian School.... 7023 Greenwood Rd., Shreveport, LA 71119
Dallas Christian Academy................. 4025 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75204 Ft. Worth Adventist Jr. Academy....3040 Sycamore School Rd., Ft Worth, TX 76133
OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE Bristow Adventist School........................................P.O. Box 1074, Bristow, OK 74010 Grand Lake Christian School.................................35369 S. Hwy 82, Vinita, OK 74301 Heritage Adventist School..............20555 S. 4170 Rd. Unit B, Claremore, OK 74017 Muskogee SDA Christian Academy.....6106 W. Okmulgee Ave, Muskogee, OK 74401 Parkview Adventist Academy.....4201 Martin Luther King, Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Pioneer Adventist Christian School......................P.O. Box 1245, Guymon, OK 73942 Tulsa Adventist Academy.....................................900 S. New Haven, Tulsa, OK 74112
SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE
Garland Christian Adventist School...... 1702 E. Centerville Rd., Garland, TX 75041 Houston Adventist Academy..............................11735 Grant Rd., Cypress, TX 77429 Joshua Adventist Multigrade School.............. 1912 Conveyor Dr., Joshua, TX 76058 Katy Adventist Christian School................................ 1913 East Ave., Katy, TX 77493 Keene Adventist Elementary School.........................302 Pecan St., Keene, TX 76059 Killeen Adventist Jr. Academy................................. 3412 Lake Rd., Killeen, TX 76543 North Dallas Adventist Academy............2800 Custer Pkwy., Richardson, TX 75080 Scenic Hills Christian Academy............... 11223 Bandera Rd., San Antonio, TX 78250 South Texas Christian Academy..................... 7001 N. Ware Rd., McAllen, TX 78504 Stonehill Christian Academy......................... 4301 Kelly Lane, Pflugerville, TX 78660 Tyler Adventist School.............................. 2931 South S.E. Loop 323, Tyler, TX 75701
Applegate Adventist Christian Academy.........P.O. Box 729, Round Rock, TX 78680 Bethel Adventist Church School.......................... P.O. Box 660, Texarkana, TX 75504 Emmanuel Adventist School........................ 702 N. Cherry St., Hammond, LA 70401 Excel Adventist Academy..............................P.O. Box 2240, Missouri City, TX 77459 MLK Christian Academy......................4295 Prescott Court, Baton Rouge, LA 70805 New Orleans Adventist Academy............ 4500 Gawain Dr., New Orleans, LA 70127 Shiloh Excel Christian School...................... 2420 S. Maple St., Little Rock, AR 72204 Southwest Christian Academy................ 611 N. Cedar Ridge, Duncanville, TX 75116
TEXICO CONFERENCE Canyon Christian Academy..................1000 S. Canyon Rd., Alamogordo, NM 88310 Crestview SDA Academy...................6000 Ouray Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120 El Paso Adventist Jr. Academy............... 3510 George Dieter Dr., El Paso, TX 79936 Lubbock Jr. Academy.........................................5302 Elgin Ave., Lubbock, TX 79413 Roswell Adventist Elementary School......... 2915 S. Union Ave., Roswell, NM 88203 Sandia View Academy................................. 65 Sandia View Ln., Corrales, NM 87048 Sandia View Christian School........................... 24 Academy Dr., Corrales, NM 87048
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
41
Back Pages
A flexible, online program built for working nurses. Advance your career beyond the bedside and discover new educational and leadership opportunities.
Enriching - Practical - Life-Changing
Master of Science in Nursing Education 100% ONLINE COURSES • COMPLETE YOUR CLINICALS CLOSE TO HOME FINISH IN AS LITTLE AS 2 YEARS • START FALL OR SPRING 817.202.6794 | enroll@swau.edu | @southwesternau
42
RECORD MAGAZINE
APPLY TODAY!
Back Pages
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
43
6-CORP-4541966836
Non-Profit Org US POSTAGE
PAID
Southwestern Union of Seventh-day Adventists PO Box 4000, Burleson, TX 76097
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Be the reason hope grows stronger.
Join Our Team: Scan to learn more.
Permit No. 1255 Liberty, MO