September | October 2024

Our Core Beliefs

Editor’s Note

In 2024, the Record magazine is exploring six of the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The September/October issue examines the 20th fundamental belief, the Sabbath. This issue also features Lee-Roy Chacon, Texico Conference president, on the cover.

The Creator instituted the Sabbath as a memorial of creation and emphasized it in the fourth commandment. The Sabbath is a day of communion and a symbol of our redemption in Christ. Observance of this holy time is a celebration of God’s creative and redemptive acts. How does this weekly pause impact our relationship with God? Why is this doctrine so significant that it’s part of our denomination’s name?

Kristina P. Busch

Kristina P. Busch

Editorial

EDITOR

KRISTINA P. BUSCH | KBusch@swuc.org

MANAGING 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 News@okla-adventist.org

Southwest Region Conference LESLIE SOUPET | News@swrgc.org

Texas Conference

KENN DIXON | News@txsda.org

Texico Conference DEBBY MÁRQUEZ | News@texico.org

Southwestern Adventist University Communication@swau.edu

AdventHealth

ELIZABETH CAMPS Elizabeth.Camps@adventhealth.com

Design

DESIGNER

TAMMY G. PRIETO

COVER STORY IMAGES

STEVEN ST. JOHN STOCK IMAGES GETTY IMAGES

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ADVERTISING BRADLEY ECORD BEcord@swuc.org

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TAMMY G. PRIETO Record@swuc.org

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President Carlos Craig

Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks

Treasurer John Page

Undertreasurer Bo Just

VP Church Ministries Tony Anobile

VP Education Carol Campbell

VP Multicultural Ministries Osvaldo Rigacci

Children’s Ministries Sonia Canó

Church Planting Robin Lopez

Communication Kristina Busch

Community Services Bo Gendke

Evangelism English Stephen Brooks

Evangelism Spanish Osvaldo Rigacci

Family Ministries Letty Craig

Health Ministries Randy Phillips

Human Resources Joel Wallace

Men’s Ministries Tony Anobile

Ministerial Tony Anobile

Ministerial Spouses Letty Craig

Personal Ministries Stephen Brooks

Prayer Ministries Helvis Moody

Prison Ministries Tyrone Boyd

PARL Stephen Brooks

Revolving Fund Joel Wallace

Sabbath School Sonia Canó

Secondary Education Mike Furr

Stewardship Tony Anobile

Planned Giving/Trust Services Bo Just

Women’s Ministries Letty Craig Young Adult/Youth Ministries Helvis Moody

Conferences & Institutions

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

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Celebrating the Sabbath

The Sabbath. It’s embedded in our denominational identity, but do we really understand it? Celebrate it? Delight in it?

Growing up Adventist, Sabbath has always been a part of my life. I grew accustomed to a set of norms for this day. From sundown Friday to sundown Sabbath, I was taught to “guard the doors of the Sabbath.” There were acceptable activities my family participated in. We greeted the beginning of the Sabbath with worship, attended Sabbath school and church, participated in Sabbath afternoon activities and closed the day with prayer.

The activities were often common to my friends’ families, so a community evolved around this day. However, norms differed across families to some degree. I remember it was not acceptable for me to ride my bike on Sabbath, but a close friend was allowed to do so. As a result, the focus was often on how I was limited in my activities or what I was obligated to do or not do, without truly understanding the purpose of the special day.

Instead, we should consider the original intention for the Sabbath— rest, blessing and sanctification—and find ways to experience this on the

Sabbath. As the Encounter Bible Program for our K-12 students emphasizes, the Sabbath will last into eternity. It is more than a day; it is more than a memorial. The Sabbath is a gift, as well as a symbol of allegiance, acknowledging a covenant relationship between a loving God and His children.

Our response to this gift should be to remove the distractions so we can focus on the relationship. The boundaries tell us how important the Sabbath is to God; they protect the Sabbath from being invaded by other things that would distract us from building a relationship with God.

For a powerful example of how we’re to honor the Sabbath, let’s look at the experience of the Israelites in the desert. God gave them manna day after day, week after week, for 40 years—but never on the Sabbath. Instead, twice as much fell on Friday, and twice as much was to be gathered. The manna was a weekly reminder to honor the Sabbath day by intentionally preparing for it and protecting it from needless work so the Israelites could focus on their relationship with God.

Jesus also provided an example on how He honored the Sabbath. He used the Sabbath to bring joy and delight

into people’s lives. It is a day to do good to others, to bless others through our words and actions (Matthew 12:12). Celebrating the Sabbath as God intended blesses our lives and is a sign of our devotion to Him and His will for our lives. Isaiah 58:13-14 says, “If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord.” a

By Carol Campbell, Ph.D. Vice President for Education

The Great Reset: A Day of Rest and Gladness

One of the greatest realities that we experience as God’s human creation is our basic need to step away from the ever-increasing demands that we have placed on ourselves, and refocus our attention on experiencing our Creator’s plan for our best life in the here and now. Most of us jump into the proverbial rat race and do our best to get up to at least a minimal survival pace, when what we really need is to get out of that race periodically and experience some peace, joy and rest. And just how do you propose that we do that? you may ask. Most who

will read this have a pretty good idea of what is meant by this suggestion. Yet you may be someone who is barely holding on to the frayed ends of your overextended rope and could use some relief.

In the context of our lives, the demands that we experience from life in general have led us to a point of desperate fatigue. God knew that we would do this. He knew that we would take the intellect, the energy and the resources that He has given to us and drive ourselves to extreme measures in pursuit of personal accomplishments.

Pastors, medical practitioners, counselors, life coaches and a myriad of others have come to an increasing belief that humans need a break!

The solution to this need goes back to the evening of the very day that Adam and Eve were created. As that day was drawing to a close, we can imagine that God stepped back to survey all that He had created on His new planet, and He celebrated it in the context of rest. As Genesis 2:3 says, “Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that He had done.” This resting was not from weariness, but in relationship and joy. God planted our human family tree in a garden, declaring that—from that day onward—the seventh day would be a holy time that He prescribed to everyone for rest, renewal and a refocusing of our lives with a weekly reset. This special day would be a standing reminder that we should stop the madness of the schedules that drive us through the week and enter a haven of rest and a time for worshiping the One

Who made heaven and earth. God called this special weekly time Sabbath, and He invites us to step out of our crazy busy lives and stressful times into the holiness of His time.

I have long been drawn to the comments of author and rabbi Abraham Heschel, who describes Sabbath as “a cathedral in time.” This description calls us to understand that no matter where we are, or what surrounds us, this holy time has been given to us as a reminder that God is present in this time, that He desires—and deserves— our worship and that we will be the beneficiaries of entering into the rest that He promises.

It is interesting to note that, although Sabbath is often misunderstood today, throughout history there has been a rather broad understanding of the concept of, and need for, Sabbath. In fact, for nearly 200 of the world’s languages, the word for Saturday is a form of the word Sabbath.

And for Seventh-day Adventists, the seventh-day Sabbath represents one of two very important beliefs that are found in our name, due in large part to the influence of Joseph Bates, one of the our church’s co-founders.

The Sabbath is a gift of grace from God. It was important at the time of our Creation, it was important at the time of our redemption, and it will be important all the time leading up to (and and after) the long-promised return of Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. May we continue to experience the blessing of Sabbath as we enter into the rest that has been prescribed for us from the beginning of time for the care and keeping of everyone who will choose to experience the peace and joy that Sabbath can provide. a

By Phil Robertson. Robertson served as the Texico Conference executive secretary and treasurer until his retirement in August 2024. He lives with his wife, Kathie, in Burleson, Texas.

Faithful Foundations: Serving the Creator of the Sabbath

Note from the Editor: The following is the fifth in our 2024 series featuring a president from within the Southwestern Union territory as they explore one Adventist fundamental belief and how it has affected their life, faith and ministry.

Just before Lee-Roy Chacon was born, his parents, farmers who ran a country store in Canon Plaza, New Mexico, became Seventh-day Adventists. They were strong believers in the faith, which they demonstrated for their children in their keeping of the Sabbath, their faithfulness in tithing and their unwavering belief in the soon Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Chacon grew up with his three siblings in the small Northern New Mexican community of fewer than 100 people. They worked hard, waking early to take care of the crops and animals before the school bus came, and then taking care of more chores when they came home from school.

The community was made up of relatives—aunts, uncles and cousins— and those who weren’t Catholics were Seventh-day Adventists, who were notable in the community because of their Sabbath observance.

Chacon remembers his family’s weekend routine. “We would take our baths before the sun went down,” he says. “We made sure all the clothes were taken care of. The store had to be closed an hour before the Sabbath started, and we would not open the store until the Sabbath was over.”

It appears that Chacon’s family was blessed for their faithfulness. Throughout the years, several others tried to open similar stores in the area, but none had success; only his parents’ store remained.

As a teenager, Chacon decided to follow his parents’ example and keep the Sabbath as faithfully as he saw them do. An athletic kid, he played basketball at his high school, but was

met with the issue of playing with his team on the Sabbath. “I quit the game,” he says, “quit the team and decided to be faithful to the Lord and not play on the Sabbath.”

Chacon worried about his future as he was finishing high school. What should he do with his life? What were his next steps? He wrestled with the idea of becoming a pastor. This wasn’t something he wanted to do, but he felt he was being led that direction. After discussing it with his parents, he decided he would attend Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU).

Attending SWAU, he found himself drawn to the theology and religion classes. Still, after he graduated from the university, he had what he calls a “Jonah moment.” He moved to California, where he worked for a short time at a bank and also at the local Adventist Book Center, taking business courses at night and ignoring the call to become a pastor.

Then the local conference asked if he would serve as a youth pastor at a church in Los Angeles. He reluctantly accepted. In doing so, he accepted more than just the position, he also accepted the call to ministry. He went on to study at Andrews University for his master’s of divinity before returning to work as the youth pastor of the Los Angeles church.

It was then that he met Nelva, a dentist from Mexico, who was visiting to purchase medical equipment for her practice in Monterey. Chacon knew this was the woman God intended for him. The two dated for three months, and before she was scheduled to return to Mexico, he proposed. They had two weddings: one in the United States and one in Mexico. Then they settled into their lives as a new pastoral family. At that time, the Pacific Union Gleaner published a notice about Chacon’s ordination and return to the

Los Angeles area. The notice was read by the then-president of the Alaska Conference, James Stevens, who was looking to hire someone with a unique blend of skills and experiences. Chacon fulfilled all the requirements for a role Stevens was looking to fill. He had a pastoral background, was fluent in both English and Spanish, had strong administrative skills and had a sound understanding of financial management. Chacon was offered, and agreed to take, the position in the Alaska Conference.

Upon moving to Anchorage in 1992, Chacon embraced the wide range of responsibilities that utilized these skills. He started the first Spanish church in Anchorage while also taking on the role of associate treasurer for the conference, managing the local Adventist Book Center and acting as the treasurer for the local school. Throughout his years there, Chacon fulfilled the needs outlined by Stevens and also contributed to the growth of the Adventist Church in Alaska. Meanwhile, Chacon and his wife became parents of a daughter, Melissa.

Being in Alaska gave Chacon a new perspective on Sabbath keeping, with the sun rising and setting at very late or very early times. “It opened a new understanding of keeping the Sabbath. Not just about the day, but about the attitude and how you worship on that day,” he says. “Just the fact that we’re keeping the Sabbath doesn’t necessarily mean that we are actually automatically going to be saved. It is a relationship that we have with

the Creator that is built on a daily basis. The Sabbath is the culmination of the weekly relationship. It accumulates, and you then rejoice on the Sabbath when you can be there with your Creator and Redeemer, thanking Him for what He did the whole week.”

After Chacon had been in Alaska for five years, Stevens was elected president of the Texico Conference. It wasn’t long before he called on Chacon, knowing he was from the area, knew the culture well and understood the unique challenges facing ministry workers in the conference. Soon Chacon was elected as the conferences’ executive secretary, taking on the challenge of working in an expansive and rural geography where resources were spread thin. Chacon and the conference began to look at

In reflecting on his path through ministry, Chacon remembers his parents’ farm and store, their commitment to keeping the Sabbath, their commitment to the church and how much that influenced and blessed his own path.

In his limited spare time, Chacon enjoys gardening, which allows him to reflect on creation. “I always say, you can take the boy off the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the boy,” he says. His gardening now is more focused on peaceful reflection rather than subsistence, and he likens its effect and purpose to those of the Sabbath—a special space for giving thanks for what God has made and reflecting on His creation. a

By Jessica Lozano.

Lozano is a writer and freelancer based in Northwest Arkansas. Photos by Steven St. John Photography. Lee-Roy Chacon is the Texico Conference president. He lives in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, with his wife, Nelva. They are parents to one adult daughter, Melissa.

ways to work with what they had while expanding the ministry and reaching the territory for Christ. Some of their solutions included combining districts in efficient ways, providing incentives for evangelism efforts and supporting ministry workers who sometimes felt isolated or without resources.

In 2012, after Stevens’ retirement, Chacon was elected president of the Texico Conference, a role he’s held for the past 12 years. He has continued to cultivate a close-knit community and family atmosphere within the Texico Conference’s team of ministry leaders and pastors, offering support and opportunities that grow both their faith and their commitment to their calling.

A Non-Adventist Look at the Sabbath

“That’s what I need,” my classmate typed in response to an essay I'd written about the Sabbath, “a Sabbath rest.” I could sense her exhaustion in her statement. My classmate wasn’t Adventist, but she was feeling a longing to experience God's gift of rest.

This same longing is reflected in Martin Doblemeir’s latest PBS documentary, “Sabbath,” which opens with a montage reflecting the exhaustion of modern American life, including a notation from Norman Wirzba, professor of theology at Duke Divinity School, that the post-World War II era is sometimes referred to as “the great acceleration.”

For the rest of the documentary, the Sabbath is presented as a solution for what Randy Roberts, pastor of the Loma Linda University Church, describes as a “profoundly burned out” society.

Despite Roberts and several other Adventists being interviewed for this documentary, it’s not a denominationally produced film. Martin Doblemeir, president and founder of Journey Films, is not an Adventist. He is, however, quite familiar with our church, having produced the PBS films, “The Adventists” and “The Blueprint: The story of Adventist Education.”

In fact, it was during the production of these films that Doblemeir became interested in the concept of Sabbath.

“One of the surprises that came up for me is this idea of Sabbath,” Doblemeir mentioned in an interview with “3ABN Today.” “Everywhere I’ve gone now ... I’ve been talking about the value of the Sabbath, really as a gem that’s been lost, and Adventists continue to honor that, and I think that’s so important.”

Now Doblemeir is bringing this gem to the forefront, not just from an Adventist perspective, but from the perspective of other Christians, Jews, Muslims and even secular people.

One comment from the documentary that really got me thinking was from Judith Schulevitz, author of The Sabbath World : “There’s a lot of talk about unplugging, and there’s an unplugging movement,” she says. “We need to be able to not answer emails. We need to be able to turn off our computers, and have time together, which I think is true. The thing that the unplugging movement misses is that we have to do this at the same time because if we don’t, we’re never really going to be able to relax, because we don’t trust that our co-worker is unplugging too.”

Watching this film gave me a renewed appreciation for how blessed we are to be part of a faith group that has continued to emphasize Sabbath rest. It also helped me understand how other faith groups view the Sabbath and see how well-intentioned people could make a push for the Sunday laws so that, as Schulevitz says, we can all unplug at the same time.

“Sabbath” can be viewed on the Journey Films YouTube channel. a

By Lori Futcher. Futcher is the managing editor of the Record

magazine.

We need to be able to not answer emails. We need to be able to turn off our computers, and have time together. — Judith Schulevitz “

10 Ways Rest Benefits Your Health

By AdventHealth

We were designed for rest. This aspect of our wellbeing was so important that God created a space in time for us to do just that, enjoy a Sabbath rest. Just as God rested from His creation, His intention was that we would take a weekly sabbatical from our work. As Hebrews 4:10 says, “for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their work, just as God did from His.”

Today we understand rest to be a vital part of maintaining physical and mental health. In fact, rest is the second component of AdventHealth’s CREATION Life model, a comprehensive wellness program that helps individuals achieve optimal well-being through a faithbased, wholistic approach.

Science shows us that God’s ways are best. Rest can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and provide even more health benefits to the body, mind and spirit that we are just beginning to discover through science. Here are 10 ways rest can benefit your health.

IMPROVE CONCENTRATION

1. 6.

If stress begins to overpower your ability to focus, it may be difficult to accomplish even simple tasks.

IMPROVE DIGESTION

According to digestive experts, relaxation seems to help those with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders to lesson pain and manage GI irritability.

INCREASE BLOOD FLOW

Relaxation can help your arteries widen slightly, increasing blood flow, which increases the amount of oxygen reaching your body tissues.

LESSEN ANGER AND FRUSTRATION

LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE

As your body relaxes, your breathing becomes slower and your body slows down other functions. As your heart rate decreases, your overall blood pressure lowers.

LOWER RISK OF STROKE

According to a recent study, people who coped best with stressful events had a 24 percent lower risk of stroke.

PROMOTE EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

Studies have linked chronic stress to brain health. When the stress hormone cortisol is elevated, serotonin and dopamine levels decrease, an effect that has been linked to depression.

9. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Do your muscles tense up when you become angry or frustrated? Muscle tension is a sign of stress; so when you feel your muscles tighten, it's time to relax.

REDUCE INFLAMMATION

Stress can impact your body's ability to fight off common illnesses, such as colds. Inflammation can build more quickly when you're stressed, which could, in turn, alter your body's immune response. With a weaker immune system and a higher level of inflammation, you're more likely to feel under the weather.

10. 7. 8.

REDUCE FATIGUE

Relaxation, when combined with consistent sleep schedules, can contribute to a better night's rest.

SLOW DOWN YOUR HEART RATE

Stress can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks and other heart issues. When your body relaxes, you're protecting your heart by slowing your heart rate.

Visit CREATIONLife.com to learn more about rest, and other CREATION principles that can help you live a whole life. a

What Adventists Believe About the Seventh-day Sabbath

By Southwestern Union Communication and Adventist.org

During the first six days of creation, God made everything necessary for humans to live and thrive. But He wasn’t quite finished with the whole creation process. On the seventh day, God created the Sabbath. His last act of creation was to sanctify this day and make it holy. Then He rested.

When God rested on the seventh day, He set an example for us. He gave the weekly Sabbath as a day of rest and worship for all of mankind. The Sabbath is a memorial, a day when we remember God’s creative power. Keeping the Sabbath allows us to rest our physical bodies. God doesn’t need to rest, but He knows human beings do. It’s important for our mental and physical health to take time to rest and refresh. Studies have shown that people who take time to rest from their labors are healthier and more productive. As Psalm 23:2,3 says, “He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul.”

When we rest, we put aside the cares of the world, which allows us to focus on our relationship with Jesus. Just like any meaningful relationship, it’s important to spend time together, talk together and get to know one another.

The Sabbath was made for mankind for our own good. God wants you to experience thankfulness and joy on the Sabbath day!

The Sabbath is the seventh day of the week. We can follow Jesus’ example by refraining from our regular daily work to focus on Him and His creation. Leviticus 23:3 tells us, “‘There are six days when you may work, but the

seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, a day of sacred assembly. You are not to do any work; wherever you live, it is a sabbath to the Lord.”

Adventists believe the Sabbath is a blessing for every created person, and

it reminds us that we each have a powerful Creator and a loving Savior.

We encourage you to take a closer look at this fundamental belief with your pastor, Bible study group or online at Adventist.org/the-sabbath. a

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

BELIEF #20: The Sabbath

The gracious Creator, after the six days of Creation, rested on the seventh day and instituted the Sabbath for all people as a memorial of Creation. The fourth commandment of God’s unchangeable law requires the observance of this seventh-day Sabbath as the day of rest, worship, and ministry in harmony with the teaching and practice of Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a day of delightful communion with God and one another. It is a symbol of our redemption in Christ, a sign of our sanctification, a token of our allegiance, and a foretaste of our eternal future in God’s kingdom. The Sabbath is God’s perpetual sign of His eternal covenant between Him and His people. Joyful observance of this holy time from evening to evening, sunset to sunset, is a celebration of God’s creative and redemptive acts.

(Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 20:8-11; 31:13-17; Leviticus 23:32; Deuteronomy 5:12-15; Isaiah 56:5, 6; 58:13, 14; Ezekial 20:12, 20; Matthew 12:1-12; Mark 1:32; Luke 4:16; Hebrews 4:1-11)

Adventist.org/the-sabbath

Sabbath School is Alive!

By Lori Futcher, Record Managing Editor

Only about 30 percent of Seventhday Adventists attend Sabbath School. You might think that statistics would discourage someone whose task it is to equip Sabbath School teachers, superintendents and secretaries. But you would be wrong.

“People keep saying that Sabbath School is dying,” says Sonia Canó, Southwestern Union’s Sabbath School director. “No, it’s not dying. It’s alive. It’s very alive. We study the Word of God, and the Word of God is life.”

In fact, Canó’s primary concern is that anyone not attending is missing out. “They’re missing this golden opportunity to grow as Christians,” she says, emphasizing that Sabbath School

is much more than the lesson. It’s also about mission and discipleship.

Ellen G. White says, “The Sabbath School should be one of the greatest instrumentalities, and the most effectual, in bringing souls to Christ.”

“Sabbath School is the Word of God in action,” says Canó, “because the Word of God produces something in your heart and your mind. Then, as a group, Sabbath School produces something in your class.” The fruit Sabbath School classes produce is seen in the money members raise for missions, outreach programs the group initiates and support members provide for each other. “In Sabbath School, we are a family,” says Canó. “We care for

each other. We pray for each other. We study together.”

Sabbath School plays an important role in Canó's family. Her husband is an adult Sabbath School teacher, and Canó has taught all levels from Beginner (formerly called Cradle Roll) through adult. The Canós have four adult children and one baby granddaughter. “I don’t care what her mama and papa say, she’s perfect!” Canó says. Canó’s granddaughter was born just in time to experience all of the levels of the new Alive in Jesus Sabbath School lessons, which will begin being introduced to Sabbath Schools in 2025. “The focus is more on family,” Canó says of the lessons produced by the General Conference, “how families together can study the lessons.”

The schedule for releasing lessons is as follows: 2025 Babies and Beginner; 2026 Kindergarten and Primary; 2027 Junior and Teen and 2028 Youth. To learn more, visit SabbathSchoolPersonalMinistries.org/AliveInJesus.

No matter what curriculum is being used, the key for success in any Sabbath School class is having teachers who have responded to God’s call to lead their class. Canó feels honored to be able to help these teachers reach their highest calling by working with conference Sabbath School directors in providing training and resources to help these teachers succeed in their mission. When Sabbath School leaders, superintendents and secretaries attend training events, they learn different ways to study the Bible in preparation for teaching, discover different tools for teaching, understand how adults learn and prepare to minister to Sabbath School class members.

“You represent the Good Shepherd,” Canó tells teachers, “because you’re the shepherd of the class.” a

Shaping Minds and Hearts in Texico

By Sandra Patterson, Superintendent of Education

In the Texico Conference, the landscape of our schools is evolving. With 44 percent of current students coming from Adventist homes and 56 percent from the community, our educational institutions are embracing a changing demographic. Yet, amidst these shifts, one truth remains clear—there is an opportunity and responsibility to share the Gospel message with young hearts, many of whom have never heard about Jesus. Here are just a few stories of families who have been affected by our mission.

Instilling Values

Parents like Isaiah Gyan, father of a community student at Crestview Seventh-day Adventist Academy, highlight the invaluable role of Adventist schools. “The decision to take both of our kids to a Christian school was a very easy decision,” says Gyan. “We wanted to make sure that the values that we are teaching them at home are the same values that are still instilled when they go to school. That is why we decided to send our boys to Crestview Seventh-day Adventist Academy.”

Gyan speaks not just of academic excellence but of the priceless gift of values alignment—a foundation built upon principles cherished both at home and in the classroom. The cost of private education pales in comparison to knowing that our children are receiving more than just knowledge; they are receiving an education of the heart.

Changing Lives

This commitment to holistic development is evident in the stories that unfold within the halls of our schools. Our teachers witness firsthand the transformative power of faith. There are countless stories of children who light up at the sound of biblical truths,

sparking a journey of discovery and spiritual growth.

Take Rocky Rivera, a Sandia View Academy graduate, whose experience reveals the difference Adventist education can make. “I feel like I came to Sandia View Academy because I was getting called to come here," says Rivera. "I was going down a very dark and narrow path and was surrounded by bad influences. In coming here, my life has just changed a complete 180. After coming to this school, I grew my understanding of Jesus and God a lot more.”

Living Our Faith

Sandia View Christian School (SVCS) Principal Melanie Cano shares a story illustrating how the school rallied around a grieving community family whose child attends SVCS. “We had students asking their parents, ‘Can I visit my friend to give him a note of encouragement and a hug?’” says Cano. “Teachers were also calling, sending notes and checking in on the family.” The school demonstrated their love for God in a way the grieving family noticed and appreciated.

Learning to Love Jesus

Administrators at Canyon Christian Academy (CCA) have stressed the impact their school has had on their diverse community, where students of various faiths and backgrounds have come together. “I have seen many students affected by their attendance here at the academy,” says Connie Coates, CCA, office administrator/ treasurer. “One little girl came to me one day and said, ‘Ms. Connie, before I came to Canyon Christian Academy, I

didn’t know who Jesus was, and now I know who Jesus is, and I’m so happy about that.’ I feel like we’re reaching students that might not otherwise have had an opportunity to learn the truth. We’re building foundations here while providing an excellent academic atmosphere. We’re also reaching the more important things—and that’s learning about Christ.”

In a world filled with distractions and uncertainties, the mission of Adventist education remains steadfast, rooted in a profound purpose. In Mind, Character, and Personality, Ellen G. White says, “The great object of education is to enable us to use the powers which we possess, that we may be a blessing to ourselves and to others, and to the glory of God.”

As we reflect on these stories from the Texico Conference, one truth becomes clear: Adventist education goes beyond classrooms and textbooks. It’s about nurturing hearts, shaping minds and guiding students toward a bright future. Texico is dedicated to the mission of Adventist education—making a difference one student at a time. a

Southwestern Happenings

September

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20-22

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

Adventurer Family Retreat

19-20

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Women’s Ministry Retreat Wewoka Woods Adventist Center OkAdventist.org

6-8

Lone Star Camp

SouthwestRegionSDA.org

27-29

SOUTHWESTERN UNION

Cowboy & Biker Camp

Children’s Ministries Spanish Training Capital Hill Church OKAdventist.org

18-19

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE

NW Arkansas Area Convocation LMelendez@arklac.org

7

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Lone Star Camp

SouthwesternAdventist.org

Central Area Evangelism Rally TexasAdventist.org

13-15

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Club Ministries Training Retreat Wewoka Woods Adventist Center OkAdventist.org

13-15

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Women’s Ministries Spanish Retreat Round Rock, Tex., TexasAdventist.org

13-15

TEXICO CONFERENCE

FESJA Texico

Inlow Baptist Camp, Texico.org

20-22

October 4-6

Oklahoma Youth Federation LMassiah@swrgc.org

25-26

TEXICO CONFERENCE

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Women’s Ministries Spanish Retreat Valley Area TexasAdventist.org

5-12

TEXAS CONFERENCE

MÁS Houston TexasAdventist.org

6-8

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

Ark-La-Tex Youth Federation LMassiah@swrgc.org

10-12

TEXICO CONFERENCE

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE

21

Women’s Ministries Retreat Lubbock, Tex., Texico.org

OAA 100 Year Celebration Ozark Adventist Academy RPatterson@ozarkacademy.org

TEXAS CONFERENCE

11-13

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Valley Area Evangelism Rally TexasAdventist.org

Young Adults Retreat Dallas Area, Youth@txsda.org

21

TEXAS CONFERENCE

17-19

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Prison Ministries Emphasis & Training Keene Area, TexasAdventist.org

2024 Texico Convocations

El Paso, Tex., Texico.org

26

TEXAS CONFERENCE

San Antonio Area Evangelism Rally TexasAdventist.org

27

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE

ARKLA Conference Constituency Texarkana Convention Center LDye@arklac.org

Hope24 Finale Houston Area, TexasAdventist.org

Prayer Conference: And When They Had Prayed

HOUSTON, TEX. – The “And When They Had Prayed” prayer conference, hosted by the Southwestern Union on June 28-29, 2024, was held at the Houston West Seventh-day Adventist Church. The prayer conference attracted a large number of attendees, drawn by the promises found in God’s Word, beautiful music, enriching fellowship and the opportunity to engage in diverse prayer themes.

Every hour was dedicated to a prayer theme, providing a unique, structured approach to spiritual reflection and communal prayer. Southwestern Union conference presidents delivered powerful messages, emphasizing the unifying power of prayer. The inspiring messages showcased the unity and shared vision within the Southwestern

Union territory. The prayer conference also featured North America Division representatives and conference prayer coordinators from across the Southwestern Union.

One of the most notable aspects of the prayer conference was that prayer services were available in English and Spanish, in addition to live broadcasts on several media platforms.

The prayer conference included several outreach events such as praying with local police departments and fire departments and conducting a drive-through prayer initiative. At the drive-through prayer event, leaders reached out to everyone who drove by, offering prayers for any needs they might have. Signs read, “Honk if you love Jesus” and “Honk for prayer.”

The “And When They Had Prayed” prayer conference was a testament to the power of prayer and the strength of unity within the Adventist community. The combination of inspiring messages and beautiful music and the inclusive approach to prayer services created an atmosphere of spiritual renewal and communal bonding. The success of the ministry was a collaborative effort, with significant contributions from various leaders and the support of the Southwestern Union. This prayer conference not only provided spiritual nourishment, but also demonstrated the Adventist commitment to inclusivity and community outreach.

By Milissia John-Baptiste

BURLESON, TEX. – Educational leadership in the Southwestern Union is focused on building collaborative school cultures. This focus requires a critical skill set to create the conditions for meaningful collaboration. Empathy often tops the list of skills that leaders need in order to build positive cultures. Forbes states that leaders who empathize are those who demonstrate the ability to identify and share in the feelings that others experience. In terms of a collaborative culture,

Southwestern Union Education Superintendents’ Retreat Southwestern Union Elementary Math Institute

DALLAS – On July 16-18, around 100 educators participated in the Southwestern Union Elementary Math Institute at North Dallas Adventist Academy. The focus was on creating a vision for mathematics within the context of the Education by Design Framework. John Almarode, Ph.D., a bestselling author and an associate professor of education at James Madison University, kicked off the Institute on day one. He laid the foundation for implementing what works best in the mathematics classroom. Almarode’s engaging presentation style and wealth of knowledge kept pre-kindergarten through eighthgrade educators’ interest.

A backward design process framed the activities on the second and third days. Educators dived deeper into three components of standards-based learning applied to mathematics: 1. Identify

empathetic leadership sees and supports the individual within the group.

Each spring the Southwestern Union Office of Education organizes a superintendents’ retreat. Typically, the locations for the retreats rotate among the conferences. However, this year the group met in Altamonte Springs, Fla., in order to have access to the professional development services made available on the AdventHealth corporate campus.

One day of the retreat was spent in empathetic training by the AdventHealth Leadership Institute and the Design Center. The Leadership Institute provided an overview of the training they offer AdventHealth employees, focused on identifying, nurturing and developing leaders for AdventHealth. One session was focused on “Emotional Intelligence for Leaders,” during which

superintendents developed the skill of reading body language in order to be more understanding and empathetic of those they serve.

The Design Center applies the concept of design thinking to the development and implementation of collaborative, solutions-oriented approaches to complex problems. Design thinking also incorporates empathy research to better understand and improve the consumer/ patient experience. Superintendents were involved in an empathy exercise in which teams donned glasses that simulated visual loss before sorting a variety of pills into corresponding containers.

Everyone left with a more empathetic mindset to add to their leadership toolbox of skills.

By Carol Campbell, Ph.D. Vice President for Education

desired results. (What do I want students to know and be able to do?), 2. Determine assessment evidence. (How do I check what they have learned?) and 3. Plan learning experiences and instruction. (Which activities will lead students to the desired results?)

Helvis Moody, Southwestern Union young adult/youth ministries director, set the tone each morning with an inspiring devotional. He challenged each educator to be the best they can be as they prepare learners for eternity.

An eight-hour challenge on days two and three further engaged the group as they worked to earn Wheel of Fortune spins by completing a variety of activities from vocabulary games to collaborative projects.

At the beginning of day two, educators were ushered into the meeting room through a cloud of smoke while the theme from Rocky blared.

Subsequently, everyone joined in, playing a song on their kazoos as they began the eight-hour challenge.

The office of education is focused on creating school cultures that are visiondriven and collaborative in nature, with integrated systems of curriculum, instruction and assessment.

By Carol Campbell, Ph.D. Vice President for Education

Union Churches Host VOP Mental Health Series

BURLESON,

TEX. – Seeking to reach people outside their walls, more than 200 Seventh-day Adventist churches across North America, including 14 in the Southwestern Union, hosted a short mental health series called MindFit this past spring. The Voice of Prophecy (VOP) produced the event to empower churches to be practical and spiritual resources to help communities battle a continent-wide mental health crisis.

“On a global scale, one in eight people struggle daily with mental illness—one in five in North America,” said Alex Rodriguez, VOP associate speaker. “The implication is clear: it is nearly impossible to live on this earth and not be affected by mental illness.”

Each session of MindFit, a four-part event, commenced with audiences watching a 30-minute episode of a docuseries hosted by Rodriguez, who traveled across North America to speak with mental health professionals and patients. The series sheds light on the history and prevalence of mental health challenges. It emphasizes that effective treatments are available and amplified by biblical principles. After each episode, a local church leader guided the audience through a provided study and discussion.

Andres Canizalez, pastor of the Clovis Seventh-day Adventist Church in Clovis, N.M., was impressed by MindFit’s ability to generate community engagement. “Our city has a huge need for mental health awareness; some use drugs and alcohol as antidepressants,” Canizalez emphasized.

“The MindFit videos were very informative and helped us understand mental health struggles. Attendees also testified how they had personally faced these struggles and sought help to overcome drugs and alcohol.”

Local mental health providers and government officials lent resources to the Clovis church to hand out at each MindFit session. Following the event, Canizalez kept in touch with several community attendees to encourage them and connect them with professionals. Canizalez plans to host the series again.

“Our church struggled getting information to our city,” he said. “Thanks to MindFit, we were able to let people know that the Adventist Church cares about them.”

The Fredericksburg Seventh-day Adventist Church in Fredericksburg, Tex., is also planning to host MindFit for a second time. The church’s excitement for the event surprised head deacon Don Krimmer, a retired substance abuse counselor who, before leading the local study in the spring, was concerned about the stigma attached to mental health issues.

“As Adventists, we don’t often admit that we have problems,” explained Krimmer. “We like to think that we have it all together.” As Krimmer watched his audience open up during the discussion portion of each MindFit session, his worries dissipated. Many individuals shared how their lives had been touched by mental illness. Krimmer is excited by the possibility of

drawing in even more people from the community when Fredericksburg hosts MindFit again in October.

“MindFit offers present truth,” Krimmer said. “In the fall, we’re going to put more effort in getting our community to attend. Of course, we encourage people to invite friends to all our meetings, but this is a mental health event. That invitation is very nonthreatening.”

For churches interested in hosting MindFit and receiving an advertising boost to draw in more community members, VOP will conduct continent-wide MindFit campaigns on Sept. 19-21 and Jan. 2-4. In the weeks leading up to these dates, host churches will benefit from a mass social media campaign promoting the series.

“With approximately 6,500 Adventist churches dotting the landscape of North America, our denomination is uniquely positioned to be a center of healing for those who are struggling,” Rodriguez said. “We filmed MindFit to place churches at the forefront of the mental health conversation. May the love of Jesus be reflected through us as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit in bringing physical and spiritual healing to a world perishing in hopelessness.”

To join those serving their communities through this unique evangelistic event, visit MindFitEvent.com/Host.

By Amanda Blake Voice of Prophecy Writer

For Just a Moment, Consider

Consider the seventh-day Sabbath for just a moment. What a beautiful creation of God! When God created this world, He wanted to be with His creation. To show them how much, He created a space in time to be with them. They would learn of Him, walk with Him and worship Him.

I suppose in one sense it’s like a wedding anniversary. You’ve made a commitment to one another, but it’s good to be reminded of it, to have a special time with your soulmate to renew and refresh your commitment.

As Jesus says in Mark 2:27-28, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” God realized that man needed a weekly anniversary, if you please, to walk with God and worship God, to build a lasting relationship. Throughout history, God has always come back to the Sabbath as a means to help us understand His desire to be with humanity and to build those bonds with His creation.

For example, when Israel came out of bondage, God used the experience of manna to help Israel to learn of God as a God who supplies our needs and who is worthy of our worship.

Isaiah 58 reminds us that our relationship with God is more important

than our own pleasure when it comes to being with Him on the Sabbath.

But probably the best example of Sabbath rest is Jesus Himself. Not only did Jesus worship in the synagogue from Sabbath to Sabbath, but I believe Jesus gave His best example during His death, burial and resurrection. Jesus died and was buried on Friday afternoon before the Sabbath began. Luke says that Jesus arose on the first day of the week very early in the morning. But He spent all of Sabbath resting in the tomb. What a testament to the day He created to be with mankind. Jesus, you might say, celebrated the Sabbath even in death. It was that important to Him. He could have easily been raised not long after He died, but He didn’t in order to give us a lasting example. God made the day holy, and Jesus observed it.

The reason I take time with this is simply because I am concerned that too many believers are treating time with God as only a way of culture or preference instead of a relationship.

Our time with God is what’s important on Sabbath. It’s our weekly anniversary with Him, a must for our relationship. We love Him. We adore Him. Therefore, we can’t wait to be

with Him and worship Him on Sabbath. During this time, we rest with Him away from all our cares and labors during. We grow and become more deeply committed to Him because of the time we spend with Him. That is the joy of a relationship!

It’s no wonder Hebrews 4:9 says, “Therefore, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.”

You can’t build a relationship without time, and our God has given us that time. It’s called the Sabbath. Let’s make the most of our time with our Creator, Redeemer and Friend!

By Richard C. Dye Sr. President

No Buy, No Sell Wilderness Training

CLINTON, ARK. – The Clinton Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted a “No Buy, No Sell Wilderness Training” event in Van Buren County, Ark. this summer. Thirty-one attendees from three local Adventist churches participated in hands-on learning sessions. Participants learned how to identify and forage for wild edible plants, grow their own food, propagate plants,

purify water, kindle and keep a fire going, cook on a campfire, set up a camp, establish cover, take care of hygiene and trash needs and survive hot and cold environments.

Training coordinator Jerry Hampton said, “As I read the book of Revelation, I see many signs that the second coming of Jesus is very close. I am reminded of Revelation 13:17. … Our goal in this

ARKLA Master Guides

HAMMOND, LA. – The Arkansas-Louisiana (ARKLA) Conference’s third Master Guide Camporee recently occurred in Hammond, La. The event’s theme, “Finishing the Work,” was a powerful call to our youth leaders to embrace Jesus as their primary source of leadership, underscoring the importance of our youth’s role in carrying forward the work of Jesus. The camporee began on Thursday evening with a warm welcome and message from Josue Feliciano, youth pastor, and Brenda Perez, ARKLA Master Guide director. Over the weekend, presenters delivered messages of encouragement, faith and hope, all aimed at empowering the attendees to fulfill the call. The event also received significant support from pastors of Arkansas and Louisiana who came to support their clubs. Friday was packed with activities from tournaments to running and jumping and building a tower. The competitions, from relay races to fire building, drilling and marching all took

training is to prepare our brothers and sisters for what the prophets have warned will come to fruition.”

Ellen G. White notes in Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, “The time is not far distant when, like early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. … the decree enforcing the papal Sabbath, will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains.” In an age of high-speed technology and every imaginable creature-comfort and convenience, humans are ill-prepared, even illtrained, to survive in the wilderness ahead of our Savior’s Second Coming.

By Lisa Hostetler

place in a peaceful environment with great weather. The day concluded with a beautiful Sabbath reception surrounded by nature, and we were inspired by the message, which left us with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

On Sabbath, the Spirit of the Lord filled all the activities, starting with a nice parade, a great message, honors and the investiture of two new Master Guides. Several contests were held in the afternoon, and in the evening after worship, we all enjoyed a potluck-style supper. Our hearts were full of blessings as we enjoyed good

food and games. During this camporee, we were grateful to have the valuable assistance of nine students from Papua New Guinea and two from Puerto Rico.

It was hard to say goodbye as we left the beautiful place on Sunday. However, we found comfort in the hope of reuniting for the next camporee. In the meantime, we are ready to continue our work, looking forward to the day when we can be with our ultimate Master Guide, Jesus Christ.

By Brenda C. Perez

Evangelism in Action Through Community Service

BENTONVILLE, ARK. – A clothing giveaway held at the Bentonville Seventh-day Adventist Church this spring served 208 families, giving away 6,448 articles of clothing and 2,352 pieces of literature. In addition, 112 prayer requests were collected, six intercessory prayers were offered and 101 children were ministered to.

”It was great to be working with members of other Adventist churches,” said volunteer Donna Nagle.

Volunteer Lois Robinson added, “We put every muscle to the test, ate together, and most of all, praised God for leading and guiding us.”

“I was blessed by the people who showed up and volunteered to do this giveaway,” said Sherri Easter, community service leader at Rogers Seventh-day Adventist Church. “I loved the camaraderie and the fellowship with people who have the same ministry goals.”

Almus Melton, a member of Bentonville’s prayer ministry team, witnessed the transformative power of prayer in a mother’s life as she found solace and hope amidst adversity. “One lady requested prayer for her upcoming surgery,” he recounted. “She shared with me that her daughter had fallen

Country Church Thriving

YELLVILLE, ARK. – Contrary to the trend of rural churches shrinking, Yellville, Ark., a town with a population of about 1,200 people, is seeing church attendance increasing! From a congregation of about 15 people on a “busy” Sabbath, the Yellville Seventh-day Adventist Church has now grown to about 50-60 people on any given week.

Not only have new people moved to the area within the last five years, drawing local non-Adventists to visit, worship and study together, but parents are also coming to raise their families. Just this past year, we have welcomed three new births, and all three infants have either been dedicated or will be this year. Elroy Tesch,

pastor of Yellville church, has presided over these public affirmations, reminding parents of the biblical precedents of child dedication, their responsibility for their child’s spiritual growth and their commitment and example in leading their children to a personal relationship with Jesus.

On Nov. 11, 2023, Levi and Jonathan Paton were dedicated to God. Present were parents, Joshua and Brittany; grandparents Scott and Linda Learned and Barry and Connie Paton; great-grandparents Leroy and Evelyn Kuhn; and siblings, Seth and Rose.

On May 4, Byron Isaac Saethre was dedicated in the presence of his parents, Mark and Tsai Saethre; paternal

into the lesbian lifestyle, but after much prayer, she returned to her old self. God is still answering prayers!”

Community service is not just an act of charity—it is a powerful form of evangelism that has the potential to touch hearts, change lives and spread the message of God’s love to all corners of the earth.

This event was supported by donors and volunteers from the Bentonville, Rogers, Fayetteville, Huntsville, Sulphur Springs and Rogers Nuevo Renacer Spanish Adventist churches.

By Michele Stamps Pritchett Community Service Director

grandparents, Tom and Mindy Saethre; maternal grandfather, Jung Bi Hua; and proud big brother, Hiram Saethre.

We are thrilled to welcome these new and precious lives into our church family and look forward to being a part of their journey as they are raised in the admonition and nurture of the Lord.

As our small country church grows, the demands also grow! New classrooms are being built, new ministries have emerged and new challenges present themselves. Yet, as a family in Christ, we trust His faithfulness to unite us in His Spirit, walking forward by His grace, as one body until He comes again.

By Cincy Petersen

OAA Students Build Church in Peru

GENTRY, ARK. – Student volunteers from Ozark Adventist Academy (OAA) went on a mission trip with Maranatha Volunteers International during spring break this year. The team laid the block walls of a church building for the Maravillas congregation in Juliaca, Peru.

A congregation of roughly 50 faithful worshipers was meeting in a cramped building with major cracks in its walls. To make matters worse, the local government announced plans to build a road right where their old structure rested. But Maranatha International agreed to build Maravillas a new church structure.

This was OAA’s first mission trip since the COVID-19 pandemic, and there was an air of excitement among student volunteers. They were thrilled to experience a different part of the world and bring about change for the Maravillas church. Project Coordinator Marklynn Bazzy shared her students’ enthusiasm, but she and the other

adult sponsors secretly wondered if they would be able to meet their construction goal. “That was one of our biggest fears,” she recalled, “that we would not finish the walls within the time we had. But God blessed the volunteers with willing spirits, enabling them to complete their task. “In the week that we were there—along with help from some of the Marantha workers—we managed to complete the walls all the way to the top,” said Bazzy. “And it looked really nice. They did a great job.”

In addition to building a church structure, Ozark volunteers led a fiveday Vacation Bible School program for children in the local community. The students from OAA and the children from the local community bonded while singing songs, doing crafts and learning about Jesus. “I think that when they look back on this, they are going to have some really good memories,” remarked Bazzy.

Juliaca’s altitude is more than 12,500 feet above sea level—a bit of a jump from Arkansas’ mere 650 feet. This elevation, combined with days full of manual labor, caused a few problems, and two of our Ozark students wound up in a local clinic with elevation sickness. But by God’s grace, they were soon cleared to return to work. Bazzy believes that even the trip’s trials contributed to a beautifully impactful experience. “The experience, no matter good or bad, is always worth it,” she says. “All my short-term mission trips have all been worth it; it really does broaden your horizons.”

Maranatha mobilizes volunteers to build churches, schools, water wells and other urgently needed structures around the world. Since 1969, Maranatha has constructed more than 14,000 structures and more than 3,000 water wells in nearly 90 countries.

By Sidney Needles

Veterans Celebrated on Memorial Day

SEARCY, ARK. – The Searcy Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated Memorial Day with a potluck luncheon. Becky Evans and Debbie Miller decorated tables with patriotic tablecloths, hats, flags and flower arrangements. There were four individuals representing the military: Jim Miller, a retired staff sergeant, served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force; Abie Nembhardt and Ismael Castaneda are currently

OFFICIAL NOTICES

serving in the U.S. Air Force, with their base located in Jacksonville, Ark.; Herman Clements served in the U.S. Air Force on the island of Okinawa during the Korean War. He was a personnel officer managing the activity of servicemen flying bombers in and out of Korea, a job that required a top-secret government clearance and organizational skills.

By Jane Huff

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS

Notice is hereby given that the 36th Regular Session of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists will be held Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, at Texarkana Convention Center, 2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Tex. 75503. The meeting will convene at 9 a.m. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. This constituency session is being held for the purpose of receiving reports for the past quadrennium, the election of officers, departmental directors and executive committee; and the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the delegates, including proposed amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws. Each church/company is entitled to one delegate for the organization. The remaining delegates shall be apportioned based on the percentage of church membership to the total conference membership as of June 30 of the year preceding the session.

Richard C. Dye, Sr., President; Jeff Villegas, Executive Secretary

THE ARKANSAS CONFERENCE ASSOCIATION OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Arkansas Conference Association of Seventh-day Adventists will be held in connection with the 36th Regular Constituency Quadrennial Session of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, at Texarkana Convention Center, 2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Tex. 75503. The first meeting will convene at 9 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to elect a board of trustees and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Delegates to the 36th session of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists are delegates of the Arkansas Conference Association of Seventh-day Adventists.

Richard C. Dye, Sr., President; Marjorie Downs, Association Secretary

THE LOUISIANA CONFERENCE ASSOCIATION OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Louisiana Conference Association of Seventh-day Adventists will be held in connection with the 36th Regular Constituency Quadrennial Session of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, at Texarkana Convention Center, 2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Tex. 75503. The first meeting will convene at 9 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to elect a board of trustees and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Delegates to the 36th session of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists are delegates of the Louisiana Conference Association of Seventh-day Adventists.

Richard C. Dye, Sr., President; Marjorie Downs, Association Secretary

Gift of Grace

The seventh-day Sabbath is a great gift of grace from God. It was given to us by God because He knew that we needed it.

It reminds us of who we are and whose we are. We are sons and daughters of God by creation. As 1 John 3:1 says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”

The Sabbath reminds us that God is our creator and we belong to Him. We, therefore, have an identity and a relationship by creation and design. It may take many years for us to realize that, but the Sabbath is meant to be a weekly reminder. Relationships are built on time spent together. The Sabbath allows us to put everything else aside and make time for God and our relationship with Him.

Not only does the Sabbath remind us that we are created and made by and for God, but it also reminds us that we were redeemed by Him.

The fourth commandment listed in Exodus 20 focuses on God as creator, but in Deuteronomy we are told to “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.” Deuteronomy 5:15.

God’s deliverance of His people from Egypt is often used in the Bible as an example of Jesus delivering us from sin by His sacrifice on Calvary and ushering us into the rest of salvation. Therefore, the Sabbath is an amazing reminder of our identity as children of God who belong to Him and have been redeemed from sin to join in a covenant relationship with Him.

The Sabbath is about nurturing our relationship with God and keeping our focus on Him. The Sabbath was established in Eden as man’s first full day of life and will be renewed in the new

heaven and new earth as a perpetual reminder of who we are and whose we are.

Our God is a relational God and the Sabbath is like a palace in time to continually strengthen our relationship with Him.

By James Shires President

Oklahoma Conference Responds to Tornado Disaster

SULPHUR, OKLA. – On April 27, 2024, a tornado with EF3 strength moved through Sulphur, Okla. This tornado caused great devastation in the downtown area. Many buildings were heavily damaged and destroyed, including homes, businesses, historic buildings and other property. Some buildings even collapsed. Many families with children lost everything and had to be placed in shelters. I can imagine one who went through it at that time may have thought, “I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm” Psalm 55:8. Many survived, but one person died. “This is why I weep and my eyes overflow with tears. No one is near to comfort me, no one to restore my spirit. My children are destitute because the enemy has prevailed” Lamentations 1:16.

Did the enemy prevail? Did God hear a cry such as this? “But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay” Psalm 40:17. The Lord heard and sent many to help. He sent the Red Cross. He sent residents from the city of Sulphur. He sent government workers. He sent

church organizations. And He also sent His remnant church.

The call went out to the members of the Oklahoma Conference, and they responded to the call of the Lord God. Donna Hill, Disaster Response Leader of the Arbuckle Seventh-day Adventist Church, led the way as she is well experienced and also has close connections with the Red Cross. She is a knowledgeable and poised leader who knew what needed to be done: she needed care packages containing items such as towels, toothpaste, toothbrushes, washcloths, deodorant, combs, razors and shampoo. As messages were sent out to the membership of the Oklahoma Conference, donated items and monetary donations poured in. The love for people, the willingness to help people in need and the swiftness to the battle were tremendously demonstrated by the members of the Oklahoma Conference. Some of our churches organized packages to be sent, as did some of our schools—including the students. Some individuals also organized packages, while others gave monetarily to help. About 600 care packages, which

included Adventist literature, were sent to help. Though the need had been met, our members, empowered by the Holy Spirit, wanted to send more. It reminded me of this text: “Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: “No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” And so the people were restrained from bringing more” Exodus 36:6.

The Southwestern Union also helped in a powerful way by providing the people of Sulphur with 300 Adventist Community Service (ACS) Disaster Relief buckets filled with items for emergency use. Our union ACS Directors, Bo and Deborah Gendke, are patient leaders who are willing to teach and provide what we need to be successful in the Oklahoma Conference. May the Lord use all of us in a magnified way, knowing we are told that disasters will continue in these last days just before the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. By Marlowe and Melshara Parks ACS Directors

The Sanctuary Comes to Life in Broken Arrow

BROKEN ARROW, OKLA. – A replica of the sanctuary from ancient Bible times, Messiah’s Mansion, came to life at the Broken Arrow Seventh-day Adventist Church, April 6-14, 2024, and what a magnificent sight it was.

Messiah’s Mansion Directors Clayton and Carolyn Leinneweber, based in Harrah, Okla., along with their nephew and traveling cook, Travis Hunt, Deb Olson and staff and students from Tulsa Adventist Academy, arrived to begin setting up on the evening of April 2. History was repeating itself from 21 years earlier when Messiah’s Mansion graced the same ground at the Broken Arrow church.

Many volunteers were on hand to help with setup, including members from the Broken Arrow church and our sister church in Claremore. In addition, former Broken Arrow pastor Nathan Shires and his wife, Gurpreet, returned from California to help.

This event took a year to plan and many prayers were offered up during this process. Meetings were held to

work out logistics for traffic flow, parking and serving meals to the staff/tour guides/volunteers and to set up schedules for volunteers to assist in the many areas needed to bring this to reality.

Tours were offered to the public from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily, with sign-up available online or on a walk-in basis. Broken Arrow church members were very involved the entire time, as it was felt that God could greatly use this as a witnessing opportunity to the surrounding community and the greater Tulsa area as a whole. A total of 1,600 people toured Messiah’s Mansion and many individuals indicated an interest

Celebrating Baptisms in Stillwater

STILLWATER, OKLA. – It was the Stillwater Seventh-day Adventist Church’s privilege to accept nine new members— seven in the Spanish church and two in the English congregation—on May 25. It all started on Feb. 11, when the Stillwa-

ter church board met, creating a strategy that would span three months, called “The Plan of Rescue.”

Our idea was simple. We agreed to reach out and bring souls to Jesus for three months. We also agreed that at

in Bible studies. Broken Arrow church members are now following through with visiting these contacts to make arrangements for Bible study.

The enemy worked tirelessly to prevent this event from occurring, but in the end, God prevailed, as He always does. Messiah’s Mansion was a great blessing to many, and church members hope that the seeds sown will reap a harvest of untold proportions that will last into eternity.

By Judy Tyree

the end of the three months we would hold an evangelistic campaign, led by Jorge Alfredo Manchego. During the evangelism effort, we saw the fruit of our efforts, led by God, when nine people decided to give their hearts to Jesus through baptism.

But the work isn’t over! We still have others being prepared for baptism. God is doing something great in Stillwater, and we praise Him for that. Please keep in prayer the nine precious souls who gave their lives to Jesus, and those who are to be baptized before the end of this year. All glory to God!

By Luis Luciano Pastor

A Journey of Resilience and Faith

MOORE, OKLA. – At the age of 3, Brad McKay and his sister, Kevin, age 4½, lost both their parents in a fatal car accident involving a drunk driver. Thankfully, their loving aunt and uncle, whom they call Momalo and Daddy Bill, stepped in as their legal guardians and gave the McKay children a loving home, which included an amazing older sister, Dana. Momalo and Daddy Bill loved and raised them as their own.

Fast forward 20 years. McKay was attending Oklahoma Christian College, relying on his trusty 1980 Yamaha 650 Special to get him from place to place. One Wednesday evening, McKay had taken a girl on a motorcycle ride and ended up at a prayer meeting. That night, his motorcycle was stolen from the church parking lot. Shocked that someone would steal from the church parking lot, McKay filed a report with the police. He didn’t have theft insurance to cover the bike, so it was a total and devastating loss.

After grappling with this unexpected loss, McKay decided that he would just hitchhike or walk wherever he needed to go, both could end up being a grand adventure! Not too long after his bike was stolen, McKay met an unexpected angel by the name of Dale Lofton. True to his nature, Lofton offered McKay a lifeline—a car in exchange for help on his property, including installing a lawn and sprinkler system. McKay was grateful to have transportation again. After he finished the work on Lofton’s property, McKay began working as a construction framer. Working 12-hour days, he saved almost enough money to replace his stolen motorcycle by the end of the summer. Considering his options, he called Kevin, who was living in California at the time. The conversation they had was one that would leave anyone in shock! His sister offered to give him one of her prized possessions, a Triumph Tiger 650 motorcycle, and insisted he keep it as his own.

It didn’t take McKay long to catch

a flight out there to pick up his “new” Triumph. The trip back to Oklahoma was full of challenges and adventures, including a breakdown in the scorching heat of the Mojave Desert and seeking shelter from a raging storm in a dry creek bed. Yet, through it all, he stayed the course and made it safely back to Oklahoma City in four days.

As McKay reflected on his journey, he was grateful for the people God placed in his life to support him through the tough times. Losing one’s parents at such a young age would leave most people understandably bitter, but not McKay. He says that experience gave him “a strong sense of fair play in future dealings.”

Some would say that he was dealt a bad hand, but when McKay talks about his upbringing, he is full of gratitude. “Momalo and Daddy Bill always said ‘Give to others and expect nothing in return because it’s the right thing to do.’ God wants us to give to others as freely as He gave His son to us!”

McKay was baptized by Wes Via at the Hope Adventist Fellowship Church in April 2022 after 30 years of church hopping. Today, he is a father of three boys, an expert houseplant keeper and a licensed family/marriage therapist who finds most his joy in helping others who have been through tragic loss and are facing depression or uncertainty. Working for the Oklahoma County Detention Center, he has the daily privilege of remembering those in prison as if he was their fellow prisoner (Hebrews 3:13). When not working, McKay enjoys spending time in nature, fishing, hiking, socializing and riding his 2016 Triumph Tiger 800.

Brad’s story is still being written, and to see how he has let God transform his seasons of adversity into seasons of beauty is a little piece of heaven.

By Ashley Alipoon Communication Administrative Assistant

Food Drive Benefits Norman ACS

NORMAN, OKLA. – Stamp Out Hunger ®, the country’s largest single-day food drive, provides residents with an easy way to donate food to community members in need. While delivering mail on May 11, the nation’s 175,000 letter carriers collected non-perishable food donations left by residents near their mailboxes.

As they do every year, the Norman Adventist Community Services (ACS) volunteers met at the post office’s loading dock that afternoon to assist postal employees and other local charities with receiving and weighing food from the incoming postal trucks. Once food was weighed and loaded onto private trucks belonging to local charities, ACS volunteers hauled food to the Norman Seventh-day Adventist Church, where volunteers spent several hours sorting and boxing it. Receiving this annual infusion of food helps

reduce the amount of food that must be purchased during the year. Donning the recognizable ACS T-shirts, our volunteers have built a positive working relationship with the postal service and other organizations in the community.

The Norman ACS outreach distributes food, clothing and personal care items to neighbors in need on the third, fourth and fifth Tuesdays of each month from 9 a.m. until noon. Individuals may use these services three times per year. Local ACS Director Carol Buckmaster, Carolyn Longhofer and other volunteers also provide sheets, blankets, quilts, pillows, towels and cleaning supplies to families.

A few years ago, the ACS ministry purchased a retired classroom building and converted it to a dedicated space of service to the community. In addition to basic services, the ACS

volunteers make sure each client receives encouraging written material they can read later. Many times, the volunteers offer kind words of wisdom and prayer for struggling clients when they come in for help.

Among families in crisis that ACS helped was a family of five living in their car who came to the pantry and clothes closet after having been evicted from their apartment when they complained about mold. They had no place to cook, so ACS let them go through the pantry and select items that had pop-top cans containing fruits, soups and vegetables. Buckmaster says, “They were very appreciative that we had made their circumstances more livable.”

By Mark A. Pelfrey

Choctaw Members Learn Bible Study Techniques

CHOCTAW,

OKLA. – On March 2, 2024, the Choctaw Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed those interested in expanding their methods of Bible study to a special class called WORDShop II. This class was promoted by Kimberly White, personal ministries leader, to encourage in-reach evangelism and strengthen individual spiritual lives. Over the course of six Sabbath afternoons, students developed skills for doing textual and topical Bible studies. Doug Baker, an educator

and pastor, was the class teacher. He brought encouragement while also challenging the class.

Baker included basic understandings of Bible versions and various steps one should take to progress through the process, making sure there was proper spiritual preparation before beginning to study. He also shared useful online search options and demonstrated when and how to use them.

Assignments helped students apply the knowledge they were learning. These assignments included a textual study of Colossians 2:14 and a topical study of The Book of Life mentioned in the Bible. By recognizing the Bible as their anchor and making the decision to be truth seekers, students walked through these assignments, seeing the full meaning in each Bible study.

Students were reminded that context is vitally important in determining the correct answer, as well as looking

for God’s character of love and justice. Over the six weeks, students shared their findings and asked questions, leading to fun discussions.

During the course, Baker announced to the class that he had just begun his own YouTube channel called “The Bible Detective.”

Fifteen students took part in the class from two area churches. On April 27, certificates were given to students who regularly attended and completed the homework.

The students enjoyed the class so much that when they were asked if they would be interested in doing additional class studies in the future, there was overall enthusiasm. May we all desire to deepen our knowledge of scripture and grow in the knowledge of God, that we may take His gospel to the world, hastening His return.

By Kimberly White

My Date with God!

I remember vividly when I was a student at Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) courting my nowwife, Danielle. While riding in my car on a date, like many others, Danielle asked, “Where are we going?”

I replied, “The golden arches.”

She then responded, “McDonalds?”

I said, “Oh, yes, baby, and you can ‘supersize’ your order!” She just looked at me and laughed!

After getting over the comedic reality that McDonald’s would be the selected restaurant for our evening’s time together, I escorted Danielle into the “golden arches.” We ordered and then sat down to talk and eat. While at McDonald’s on our date, my thoughts were focused solely on Danielle as I was looking intently at her and giving her my full attention. I wasn’t looking at others, talking to others or giving my attention to others. I was focused on my time with Danielle! Not only that, I looked my best and smelled my best because I wanted to be my best for my date with Danielle!

Each and every Sabbath, I have a date with my God! I talk with Him, listen to Him, spend time with Him, give my attention to Him and focus on Him as I seek to be my best for my date with God! Unlike my date with Danielle, my date with God is not in a restaurant or a place of amusement, but it’s in His house, His church, where I seek

to look and smell my best and worship and praise Him in His sanctuary (Luke 4:16-20, Psalm 150), along with fellowshipping with others who seek to do the same (Hebrews 10:25).

Although a portion of my date with God is in His house, my date is not limited to a two- or three-hour period in a church building, but it encompasses a 24-hour day, beginning at sunset Friday and ending at sunset Saturday, when I rest from the “hustle and bustle” of life and reflect on God’s goodness and marvel at His nature. In fact, each Sabbath during our date, I’m reminded of God’s artistic, inventive and matchless power as reflected in His creation: the sun, moon, stars, rivers, lakes, trees, grass, mountains—and I could go on and on!

What a joy it is for me to be on a date with God as I’m reminded of who He is and whose I am! I love to see our date begin, and I hate to see it end! In harmony with Isaiah 58:13, the Sabbath is “a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and I [shalt] honor Him, not doing my own ways, nor finding my own pleasure, nor speaking my own words” (KJV). And the good news about my date with God is that it will never end! My weekly date currently takes place here on earth, but it will continue when I get to heaven! “For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before Me, saith the

Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before Me, saith the Lord” (Isaiah 66:22-23, KJV).

God, our Creator, knew that we would need time to commune and fellowship with Him. He was keenly aware that I would need respite from the cares of life, and exercise the privilege of celebrating Him in worship and praise! I praise and thank God for my weekly date with Him! I’m happy to be a Seventh-day Adventist Christian! I reserve my weekly date, the seventh-day Sabbath, on the calendar, and I’m looking forward to His soon advent to redeem me!

By Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min. President

Impact: Camp Meeting 2024

ATHENS, TEX. – Southwest Region Conference Camp Meeting was held at Lone Star Camp, July 12-15, 2024. We are still praising God for the four spirit-filled days! Together, we celebrated 25 baptisms and a great attendance with over 3,000 people on Sabbath! Camp meeting included powerful preaching, inspirational singing, informative workshops, heartfelt fellowship and powerful prayer services.

We had the grand opening of the new 400-seat chapel, as well as the grand opening of the Cedar MiniLodge with 10 hotel-style rooms. Over $100,000 was raised for the Sabbath’s offering for the “Moving Southwest ‘4’ Ward initiative! There was an exciting Pathfinder parade and exhilarating recreation through horseback riding,

basketball, volleyball, rock climbing, swimming, jet-skiing and boat riding! We also had a culminating fireworks display in celebration of 45 years of owning Lone Star Camp!

This year’s camp meeting theme was “Impact—Churches, Community and Culture,” and attendees were encouraged to make a positive impact with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ! Recognizing that we often have motion but limited movement in our ministries, leaders encouraged church members to return to their respective communities and make an impact. Specifically, attendees were motivated to do greater work for the Lord in 2024 through ministry and evangelism efforts with collective sights on the North American Division’s initiative,

“Pentecost 2025,” where the goal is for every church in the Southwest Region Conference to conduct a public evangelistic campaign in 2025.

The Southwest Region conference is already looking forward to Camp Meeting 2025, which will be held at Lone Star Camp, June 11-14. Before this spiritual convocation commences, however, continued physical plant development will take place at the campground, along with major evangelism taking place throughout the conference territory. At Camp Meeting 2025, we look forward to hearing the miraculous testimonies from individuals whose lives were blessed because of the impacting ministry of God’s people!

Metropolitan Church Begins New Sanctuary Construction

MISSOURI CITY, TEX. – Sure enough, there is a great reward to those who hold steadfast in their faith. The Metropolitan Seventh-day Adventist Church prayed fervently for more than three decades for a new sanctuary.

For such an extensive delay, it cannot be helped that some brethren grew anxious, some weary and some even lost hope. But alas! Most were still faithful in showing God their complete trust in His will and embracing God’s purpose through their patience and perseverance.

The Metropolitan church started with just a few families who had come together with the determination of worshiping God. Over the years, the church saw miraculous numbers of churchgoers. The quaint and tiny church grew tremendously, no longer able to accommodate the crowd who gathered to worship each Sabbath day.

The church prayed even more to God. Prayer warriors prayed day and

night without ceasing. The brethren prayed wholeheartedly and zealously for God to allow the sanctuary to grow large enough to host, not only the church family, but all those who come and thirst for the Word of God.

Not so long after, the Metropolitan church heard God’s answer through Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min., Southwest Region Conference president, who delivered the good news. What an answered prayer! The church, through the support of the conference, has now been approved to construct a larger sanctuary. Truly, there is power in prayer! Truly, God’s answer is always at the right time!

On the afternoon of May 18, 2024, Byrd graced the Metropolitan church by facilitating the groundbreaking ceremony, signaling the beginning of the new sanctuary construction. Present was our beloved pastor, Rolando Baysa, along with the assembly of brethren, from the very first church

families to the many who now consider Metropolitan church their church family. A thunderous applause echoed through the crowd as the groundbreaking ceremony took place. The intensity of joy and happiness was so profound that everyone present could not contain it.

Thank you, Lord God, for this great and wonderful blessing! The Metropolitan church will continue to move forward not only as a steward to His sanctuary but as a servant and worker in the vineyard to continue to bring souls and grow the church until the Second Coming.

As Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

By

Anna Nabas and Rolando Baysa, Pastor

by Hearty Christian Sarsoza

Photos

Community Service Event Held in Louisiana

NEW IBERIA, LA. – On March 2, 2024, Helvis C. Moody, Southwestern Union young adult and youth ministries director; Gregory Hines, pastor of the Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Church in New Iberia; Bo and Deborah Gendke, Southwestern Union Adventist Community Services (ACS) directors; Darriel Hoy, Southwest Region Conference community service director; and Angela Horn, president of South Louisiana Youth Federation (SLYF) hosted a remarkable community event at the Martin Luther King Center in New Iberia, La.

Over 150 congregants gathered for a memorable worship service that uplifted hearts and souls. Anointed Vessels led the congregation in heartfelt worship, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching experience. The music, accompanied by soul-stirring vocals from SLYF, stirred emotions and deepened the connection with the divine. Moody delivered a powerful message, titled “Pay It Forward,” urging people to have compassion in their daily lives.

Following the worship service, congregants were treated to a delicious lunch provided by SLYF, fostering fellowship among attendees. The shared meal served as a reminder of the importance of community and the bonds that unite individuals in their journey of faith. Next, a vibrant parade through the streets of New Iberia featured over 20 vehicles, as well as Pathfinders from Louisiana and Texas who marched proudly as ambassadors of the Gospel. With banners waving and voices raised in song, the procession carried the message of compassion, hope, love and salvation to the hearts of onlookers, spreading the light of faith throughout the community. The parade served as a visible expression of the church’s commitment to outreach and evangelism, inviting all to experience the transformative power of God’s love.

The highlight of the day was the contribution made by Southwestern Union Adventist Community Services (ACS), whose substantial donation of thousands of essential items to the New Iberia community proved instrumental in meeting the immediate needs of the community. From cleaning kits to kitchen necessities, masks, blankets, pillows, shoes and toys, the generous gifts from the Southwestern Union ACS helped alleviate burdens faced by many families.

The event, which drew attendees from various walks of life, showcased the strength of unity within the community as volunteers and organizers worked tirelessly to ensure its success. Volunteers included Bo and Deborah Gendke, directors of the Southwestern Union ACS team; Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist Church Pathfinders (Covington, La.); Darriel Hoy and the Faith Seventh-day Adventist Church 1,000th Challenge Mission team (Baton Rouge, La.); Baytown United Seventh-day Adventist Church Pathfinders (Baytown, Tex.); Gregory Hines and members of Shiloh Adventist Church (New Iberia, La.); and hosts of SLYF members. All lent their hands in distributing the donated items, fostering

a sense of compassion and kindness that resonated throughout the event. From organizing to coordinating with the Southwestern Union and SLYF, every aspect of the event was meticulously planned to maximize its reach and efficacy.

Hines expressed gratitude for the support from both volunteers and donors, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in creating lasting change. “Today’s event is a testament to the resilience of our community and the compassion that binds us together,” remarked Hines. “Through collective efforts, we have shown that we are here for the New Iberia community.” Residents echoed similar sentiments, expressing appreciation for the assistance received and the sense of unity fostered by the event. For many, the community gathering served as a source of hope and inspiration, reaffirming their belief in the inherent goodness of humanity. In the end, the success of the event was not measured solely by the number of items distributed, but by the collective effort and solidarity displayed by all involved. It served as a reminder to live with more compassion.

By Milissia JohnBaptiste-Cole

Second Annual Youth Speech Contest

FOREST HILL, TEX. – Public speaking, like riding a bicycle, is a skill that is best acquired through practice. As you can imagine, the benefits of public speaking are numerous and advantageous for academics, social life and personal growth for our youth. By providing opportunities and activities for our youth to engage in, we can help them improve this valuable skill.

On March 23, 2024, the second annual Youth Speech Contest was held at Forest Hill Seventh-day Adventist Church. Jamal Williams, youth director at Canyon Creek Project Seventh-day Adventist Church, shared this idea last year, and I felt impressed to have our AY department host such an event. After a successful first competition, we decided to make this an annual event.

The speech contest was divided into two divisions: a junior division, and a

senior division. The awards included a first ($200), second ($100) and third ($50) place prize per age division, along with trophies and medallions. Participants had to choose from a list of topics established by the judges LaTavya Foster, Lawanna McCoy, Johnny Mckenzie, Jonathan Knoll and Alison Hill, and write an original speech applying the topic to biblical principles. The topics included time management, friendship and change.

Our junior division contestants included Isaac Murray (first place) and Abigael Mokua (second place); our senior division contestants included Debra Mokua (first place), Gabrielle Ekwue (second place), Reagan Wilson (third place) and Caleb Lewis.

Though the contestants were nervous, they shined, and we learned many facts from their speeches.

I pray that this event will continue to grow each year, motivating young people to continue to polish their public speaking abilities, challenge themselves, recognize their potential and build their confidence. But most importantly, they will be able to apply God’s Word to the knowledge they obtain and share with others, spreading the gospel as God has commanded us to do.

Please look for information to come regarding the third annual speech contest. My hope is that this event be not only for a specific church or conference, but a union and maybe eventually a General Conference event for all our youth. Dream big!

By Linda Murray

Sabbath: A Sign of Fidelity to God

The Sabbath reminds us that God is our Creator. The first book of the Bible shares, “Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made” Genesis 2:1-3 (NKJV).

By keeping the Sabbath, we honor our Creator God, showing the world whom we believe in. We use this special day to admire His achievements in creating and saving human beings, understanding that we are not in this world by chance.

Each weekend, we can enjoy this extra fellowship with the Savior, God the Father and the Holy Spirit. It’s a day we can reconnect with family and the people we love following a busy week.

The Sabbath is also a sign of fidelity—obedience and loyalty—to God. Revelation describes last-day events as a battle between good and evil, a battle that worship plays a big role in. God calls us in Revelation 14:7 to “worship Him who made the heavens, the earth,

the sea and the springs of water.” We demonstrate that we are worshiping the Creator when we keep the Sabbath that He established at creation.

When we compare Revelation 14:7 to the fourth commandment, we gain a deeper understanding of the message. “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it” Exodus 20:11 (NKJV).

The verse in Exodus invites us to worship God on the seventh day, Saturday, the Sabbath. Yet Revelation 14 stresses the urgency of this message, adding, “for the hour of His judgment has come.” Worship has always been and always will be (until Jesus returns) the point of controversy between good and evil.

The greatest motivation for keeping the Sabbath should be our love for the Lord Jesus Christ. “If you love Me, keep My commandments” John 14:15 (NKJV). This love is developed through communion with Him. That’s why Seventh-day Adventists keep the Sabbath. It is an eternal memorial of the Creator and Redeemer.

The Sabbath is also a seal of God that must be in our minds. For this seal to be in us, we must keep the Sabbath. Honoring the seventh day will be the point that distinguishes between those who serve God and those who do not. Therefore, we can conclude that we must all keep the Sabbath, as each one needs to obey God. It is important for any human being to remember God as the Creator, receiving the divine seal. May this seal be placed on your heart.

By Elton DeMoraes, D.Min. President

Texas Conference Executive Secretary Retires

ALVARADO, TEX. – Texas Conference Executive Secretary David Montoya retired after more than 33 years of service with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, effective June 30, 2024. Montoya announced his early retirement plans during the Texas Conference Executive Committee on May 30, 2024, sharing that his family needs to take precedence at this time.

“It was a somber time during the meeting when committee members learned of Montoya’s early retirement plans,” shared Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes. “They were then quick to affirm his years of service, all spent here in the Texas Conference.”

“Elder Montoya is a faithful follower of God and takes his responsibilities to God’s church and his family seriously,” added Texas Conference Treasurer Randy Terry. “I know he has been

praying about this decision, asking God to help him know what to do. It has been a privilege to work with him these past five years.”

Montoya’s journey with the Texas Conference began as a stipend pastor in June 1990 after graduating from Southwestern Adventist College (now Southwestern Adventist University) in Keene, Tex., with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theology. The following year, the Texas Conference sponsored him to complete his Master of Divinity from the theological seminary at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich.

With the degree complete, he returned in December 1993 to serve as a pastor within the Texas Conference. He served in various congregations, including Alice Spanish and Falfurrias Spanish; Houston Spanish Heights and Houston Spanish Bellaire district; Waco Spanish, Killeen Spanish and Temple English district; San Antonio Spanish Durango and San Antonio Spanish East Gate district; Austin Spanish First; Austin Spanish Oltorf, Austin Pan-American Spanish, Austin Spanish East district; and the Eagle Pass Spanish, Del Rio Main Spanish, Del Rio/San Felipe Spanish, Uvalde English district.

Montoya was ordained at Nameless Valley Ranch in Leander, Tex., during the Hispanic camp meeting in 1997. He assumed his role as Texas Conference

An Afternoon of Health and Wellness

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEX. – Corpus Christi Seventh-day Adventist Church members hosted a community health fair on April 28, 2024, on the Cole Park Amphitheater property, less than 10 miles from the church. Coastal Bend Blood Center brought their mobile blood drive bus, and other businesses and organizations joined the event. The fair was designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle and prevent and

manage diseases as we connected attendees with resources and health assessments. It was a blessing to see the way the church members united. We had a good number of visitors.

Three local news stations covered the event, including a Spanish channel. To learn more about the Corpus Christi church’s community events, please visit Facebook.com/CorpusChristiSDA.

By Lucia Arguello

Executive Secretary in 2019.

“I am so grateful to God for the amazing gift of serving Him for a little over three decades as a pastor and executive secretary for the Texas Conference,” Montoya shared with committee members. “Although I feel I have the vigor and stamina in the Lord to continue to serve Him for many more years in this administrative ministry, after several months of observing my elderly parents’ declining health and after much prayer and reflection, I feel impressed that caring for my mother and father and spending more time with them needs to be my new ministry. For this reason, I chose to retire early. I ended my employment with a heart full of thanksgiving to God and to His saints in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.”

“It has been a pleasure to work with Elder Montoya as pastors in the field, serving on many committees together and then as fellow officers,” DeMoraes added. “He is a blessing to this conference. His cheerful demeanor will certainly be missed.” Please join us in praying for David and Mary Ann Montoya and their families as they enter this new chapter.

By Tamara Michalenko Terry Communication & Public Relations Associate Director

Evangelism: Great Controversy Style

PARIS, TEX. – Paris Seventh-day Adventist Church members joined the 2024 Texas Conference Great Controversy initiative and handed out more than 400 books to community members during the month of April. The following Sabbath, Joshua Reyna, literature ministries director for the Texas

Conference, joined a special service focused on mission work.

In early 2023, the Paris church purchased 2,000 copies of The Great Controvers y in conjunction with the Texas Conference and the Streams of Light Ministries’ initiative to get the books into every household in Texas.

Since then, Paris church members have distributed the book around the Paris area as much as possible.

In late October 2023, the Paris church manned a booth at the Red River Valley Fair, where more books were handed out. As part of a continual evangelism culture to reach more people for the kingdom, members plan to have another booth this fall to share copies of the book and distribute flyers inviting community friends to watch an online 16-part evangelism series hosted by Amazing Facts.

Mark 16:15 encourages everyone to “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.” We’re doing our part to share it in the Paris community.

By Darla Collins

Executive Committee Votes Risk Management Department

ALVARADO, TEX. – Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ Executive Committee members voted to create a risk management department during its Thursday, May 30, 2024, meetings. They also voted José M. Rojas as its first director beginning July 1, 2024. Rojas was previously the lead pastor of the Houston Central Seventh-day Adventist Church.

“Creating this department is something we have been looking at for quite some time,” shared Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes. “With 354 congregations, 21 schools and around 1,000 employees, risk factors are something we are discussing all the time.”

“We needed personnel specialized and focused on safety to minimize risks within the conference and its entities,” added Texas Conference Treasurer Randy Terry. “As insurance costs continue to rise, having a department devoted to risk assessments will hopefully alleviate unnecessary claims.”

The Risk Management department will oversee verified volunteers; insurance renewals; safety officers; and insurance coverages for buildings and church, school and conference vehicles, among other areas.

“It is important that we all do our part,” DeMoraes continued. “From children’s Sabbath School divisions to club ministries to school trips and more, employees and volunteers are engaged in many activities that have the potential for risk. That’s just life. One department cannot be everywhere. When we see something, we need to say something.”

Rojas is bilingual in English and Spanish and joined the Texas Conference as a pastor in 2010. Before that, he held finance positions at Merrill Lynch, beginning in 1999. He has a bachelor’s degree in theology with a minor in biblical languages and a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in leadership, both

from Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Tex. He and his wife, Geisi, have two adult children, Tati and Elijah, and a 3-year-old, Gabriella.

By Tamara Michalenko Terry Communication & Public Relations Associate Director

AdventHealth Interns Experience Ministry Engagement

ARLINGTON, TEX. – Younger Generation (YG) Church, the young adult ministry of the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, collaborated with AdventHealth to offer healthcare leadership interns a discipleship component to their Summer internship.

“Exposing our future leaders to ministry service in the local church context provides these young adults with a game-changing experience,” shared President and CEO of AdventHealth’s Southwest Region Penny Johnson.

In the summer of 2023, YG Church launched the first pilot collaboration with AdventHealth, which integrated discipleship-focused opportunities for leadership interns from Texas Health Huguley Hospital.

The first interns in the program

Women Ignited for God’s Purpose

COLLEGE STATION, TEX. – The “Ignite” Women’s Conference was held on March 23, 2024, at the College Station Seventh-day Adventist Church for women ready to fulfill their God-given purpose. The event ignited the participants’ faith, empowered their spirit and connected them with believers.

The conference featured an impressive lineup of presenters, including Miriam Feese, Kennetia Brooks, Audra Holt and Texas Conference English women’s coordinator Sandralee Mars.

Through a series of keynotes and interactive workshops, attendees explored topics ranging from mental health to leadership and improving their prayer life. Participants could feel the collective determination to engage in meaningful introspection. The speakers shared vulnerable stories and practical advice that motivated the ladies to be ready to take on new challenges with the Lord’s guidance.

The conference provided ample opportunities for community building.

Participants connected with other women, exchanged testimonies and formed meaningful relationships. Their final charge involved personalizing Luke 9:24, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”

Events like Ignite create a safe space for women to learn, release and commit. This life-changing juncture, for most of the ladies, was where their insight met their God-given passions and gave birth to new commitments to God. It surely helped to have an authentic and supportive environment where all the women were unified in surrendering their lives to find the life Christ has for them.

When asked about takeaways from the event, some attendees shared:

“We received power and authority to do God’s work.”

“I am inspired to be more connected daily with God.”

“I am inspired to align myself to God’s purpose for my life.”

were Brenden Watson, Daniela PatiñoSalguero and Holly Janzen.

The interns were very engaged throughout the summer, asking questions that revealed their heart for mission work. The hope is that these integrated internship experiences will remind the students throughout their future careers of the value of their local church involvement.

“I applaud Texas Health Huguley Hospital and Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church,” said Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes, “for partnering to provide mentorship and internship opportunities to develop future full-time employees and engaged church leaders.”

By A. Allan Martin, Ph.D. Pastor

By the grace of God, Ignite organizers have already begun planning for another conference to continue providing experiences that help women embrace their calling because their light is needed in this dark world.

By Shevonne Dyer-Phillips

Church Members Invited To Join 145 Days Of Focused Prayer

ALVARADO, TEX. – “The Texas Conference has been celebrating 145 years of ministry in the great state of Texas,” Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes shared. “Christian brothers and sisters before us worked tirelessly to share the gospel within their circle of influence.”

“Because we believe in the power of prayer and want to honor our heritage, on Monday, May 27, 2024, we began 145 days of prayer,” added Texas Conference Prayer Ministries Coordinator Roderic Bishop. Every day at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., you are encouraged to pray for the Texas Conference family and new believers to experience God’s power, presence, passion, provision, protection, strength and love.

In addition to daily prayer, every congregation is encouraged to hold a series of meetings in their area during October 2024, designed to share God’s love with their community. To unite this movement, congregations are encouraged to use the word HOPE in their meeting name. A finale HOPE24 series with world-renowned speaker Mark Finley is planned for Oct. 17-19, 2024. Those meetings will

be held in person in Houston as well as virtually so all congregations can watch from their home churches.

“Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see 1,450 new believers joining us in October to watch the finale series?” DeMoraes asked. “Join us as we pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the many who are hurting.”

HOPE24 is designed to share the everlasting hope that can only be found in Jesus. “Ephesians 3 reminds us that God can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we may ask or think,” DeMoraes added. “Together as one, let’s pray for HOPE24 to be a life-changing experience, for opportunities to share God’s hope and love with others and for a renewal in our own lives.”

Make plans to join the HOPE24 finale in person or online, Oct. 17-19, 2024, and pray daily wherever you are at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Together as one, let’s give hope to each Texas community.

By Tamara Michalenko Terry Communication & Public Relations Associate Director

Schools Receive First Endowment Scholarships

ALVARADO, TEX. – The first Texas Conference Endowment funds have been sent to all 21 Texas Conference schools to provide financial assistance for the 2024-2025 school year. We appreciate the strong commitment to Adventist education from the Texas Conference constituents, board of education, finance and executive committees to help fund the Texas Conference Endowment. This fund will continue to provide annual financial resources to Texas Conference schools.

“We need to unite to help our young people afford a Christian education at a Texas Conference school,” shared

Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes. “It is so important for our churches and schools to work together for the good of our children.”

“The Texas Conference Endowment can be increased as donations come in,” added Texas Conference Treasurer Randy Terry. The income from the endowment will be divided three ways: 45 percent to Educate for Eternity for new students attending a Texas Conference school, 45 percent to all Texas Conference schools to increase their worthy student funding and 10 percent added to the principal of the endowment fund to ensure its funding.

Want to be part of those miracle stories enabling young people to attend a Texas Conference school when they didn’t think it was financially possible? Contribute to the endowment by marking a tithe envelope or giving online through AdventistGiving.org.

It takes a village to raise up the next generation. We need your help and prayers as we work to provide the greatest evangelistic opportunity through our schools.

To learn more about legacy giving, visit TexasGiving.org.

By Kisha R. Norris, Ed.D. Vice President for Education

A Test of Our Loyalty to God

The Sabbath is a memorial of creation, as we see in both Genesis and the fourth commandment. By sanctifing the seventh day, God gave us a weekly reminder of His creative work, His love for humanity and His desire for our well-being.

Genesis 2:1-3 tells of the Sabbath’s role as the cumiliation of creation: “Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that He had done.”

The Sabbath isn’t a human invention. It’s a divine institution. God set it apart from the other days of the week when He blessed and sanctified it.

In Exodus 20:8-10 we read: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” This commandment is a test of our faith in God’s Word and our willingness to obey.

When God provided manna to the children of Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 16), He gave specific instructions about collecting it. They were told to gather only enough for each day, except for on Friday, when they were to gather twice as much to last

through the Sabbath. But some disobeyed, trying to save their daily allotment of manna for the next day, which then spoiled. Others, having not gathered extra manna on Friday, went out to gather on the Sabbath and found none. God asked Moses, “How long will you refuse to keep my commandments and my instructions?” (Exodus 16:28). God wanted the Israelites to trust in His provision and care, even when it seemed inconvenient.

God expects the same for us. The Sabbath is a sign of our devotion to God. When we keep this day holy, we show our commitment to God’s law, showing that He is Lord of our lives.

Our observance of the Sabbath is a reflection of the quality of our relationship with God. It’s a day set aside for deepening our communion with Him. It’s a day to stop working and engage in activities that refresh our relationship with God, while also refreshing our body and mind. When we fail to observe the Sabbath, this reveals the low priority we’ve given to our connection with God.

God meant for the Sabbath to be a day of joy and celebration. It’s a time to appreciate creation’s beauty and give thanks for God’s blessings. This joyful observance of this Sabbath give us a glimpse of the eternal rest and communion believers will have with God in heaven and on the new earth.

In a world driven by constant activity, Sabbath observance becomes a bold declaration of our faith. When we keep the Sabbath, we demonstrate our willingness to rest in God’s promises. Our Sabbath observance shows our lasting loyalty to God’s commandments.

But it’s more than just a test. Keeping the Sabbath also enriches our spiritual journey, fostering a deeper, more intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father.

Hold on to the sacred Sabbath blessings God has for you. As you find refreshment and strength on this sacred day, you are also and standing as faithful witnesses of the enduring truth of God’s word.

By Lee-Roy Chacon President

Texico Conference Elects New Executive Secretary

CORRALES, N.M. – This past summer, the Texico Conference announced that its executive committee voted to elect Antonio Cano as the new executive secretary, effective July 1. Cano brings with him over 20 years of pastoral experience, having led several churches in central California, served as an evangelist for the Central California Conference and worked with multiple Adventist schools and academies.

Cano’s appointment follows the

retirement of Phil Robertson, who served in the role for over a decade. Currently serving as ministerial director of the Texico Conference, Cano will continue in his ministerial duties.

“I am grateful that others have seen an ability in me to serve in this capacity and to continue the impactful ministry of Robertson,” said Cano. “It is an honor I don’t take lightly. While this is a role I never sought, I accept it prayerfully, acknowledging that it is God who paves the path before me.”

Having relocated with his family to Albuquerque in January 2020, Cano is familiar with New Mexico, having grown up in southern New Mexico, where his father pastored several Texico church districts. His wife, Melanie, is currently the principal at Sandia View Christian School and is very supportive of his ministry.

Cano is deeply committed to fostering an intimate personal relationship with Christ and addressing the needs

of others through discipleship. His vision for the future aims to build upon the legacy established before him— inspiring, encouraging and mentoring our constituents.

“We are enthusiastic about the fresh perspective Cano brings to ministry and mission in Texico,” said Lee-Roy Chacon, Texico Conference president. “As he continues to get acquainted with our members across the conference, we eagerly welcome him to his new role.”

The Texico Conference anticipates God’s blessings upon Cano as he applies his experience, passion and leadership gifts to advance its mission of sharing the Good News about Jesus. Please join the conference in prayer for the Cano family as they embark on this new chapter of service.

By Debby Márquez Communication Director

Texico Conference Hires New Associate Superintendent

CORRALES, N.M. – Rosy Arizaga is Texico Conference’s new associate superintendent of education. She has over 25 years of experience in both public and Adventist education, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Texico’s educational community. Of these 25 years, 13 have been in school administration, where Arizaga has shaped and enhanced educational experiences for both students and teachers.

Arizaga earned her bachelor’s degree in education at Southwestern Adventist University and her Master of Education degree from the University of Nevada.

A visionary leader who is deeply committed to fostering excellence in teaching and learning, Arizaga has a proven track record. She has encouraged positive school cultures,

implemented educational standards and developed strategies to support educators and institutions. She has also contributed to curriculum development committees and played a pivotal role in piloting new educational programs and systems. Outside of the classroom, she has served on various accreditation committees within the North American Division.

The daughter of a minister and wife of an educator, Arizaga’s connection to Adventist education runs deep, and she’s proud to be a part of Texas Conference’s educational community. Her daughter, Lily, shares her parents’ passion for education and is a teacher within the conference.

When not working, Arizaga enjoys reading, traveling, the creative arts and the art of organization.

As Arizaga begins her new role, the Texico Conference is excited about the positive impact she will have on its students and teachers.

By Debby Márquez Communication Director

A Lifelong Commitment to Outreach

ODESSA, TEX. – When I was 12 years old, while I was praying in my room, I felt an unmistakable presence and heard a gentle whisper in my heart: “Serve the least of these.” From that moment on, I knew God was calling me to minister to those in need. This calling required courage, trust and humility. Through the years, I’ve seen lives transformed, including my own.

When I was in my early 20s and preaching in prisons, my pastor’s encouragement and support helped my spiritual growth. It was during this time, as my trust in God deepened, that I learned the importance of outreach ministry and witnessing to those who need to hear about God’s love and mercy.

Later, when I was asked to lead a small Bible study group, I began the “Guerreros de Dios” (Warriors for God) outreach ministry, visiting nursing homes, serving at food banks and organizing community events.

The ministry flourished with the support of my husband and several members of the Odessa Seventh-day Adventist Church. Our ministry team began witnessing to residents of local nursing homes, including the Deering Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

This lead to one of the most joyous moments in our ministry when, on April 13, Abner Razon, pastor of the Odessa English Seventh-day Adventist Church, baptized three residents of Deering Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Although their physical disabilities hindered them from entering a baptistry, the pastor washed their feet, symbolizing the powerful and reminiscent act of humility and service performed by Jesus. It was inspiring to see these residents embrace Jesus and commit to Him despite their physical limitations.

I’ve had challenges and moments of doubt during this journey. Becoming a ministry leader came with great

responsibility. There were times the enemy was not pleased with the great blessings and spiritual growth taking place in the ministry, and I was attacked spiritually. My faith faltered, and I considered giving up. Yet, I’ve been constantly reminded by the Holy Spirit that God has a greater purpose for my life. My simple act of obedience at the age of 12 has become a lifelong commitment to outreach ministry.

I encourage others to heed God’s call in their own lives. Despite facing difficulties and opposition, it’s crucial to listen to God’s guidance and fearlessly venture into new unfamiliar territories. True faith doesn’t ignore our circumstances; it’s trusting God through them, allowing His divine plan to unfold. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

By Julissa Rios

Field School of Evangelism 2024

CORRALES,

N.M. – On June 15, the Texico Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Church, alongside 10 local congregations from across Albuquerque, concluded a successful evangelistic effort. Participating host churches included the following Seventh-day Adventist churches: Albuquerque Central, Los Lunas, Temple Three Angels, Rio Rancho, Valencia, Albuquerque Rio Grande Spanish, Albuquerque North Valley Spanish, Albuquerque La Roca Spanish, Albuquerque Metropolitan Spanish and Albuquerque Heights.

These evangelistic efforts coincided with the annual “Field School of Evangelism” class hosted by Southwestern Adventist University’s (SWAU) religion department. Every year for six weeks, upper-division theology majors travel to a city within the union and participate in class lectures on modern evangelism dynamics, sermon development and practical skills for ministry in diverse settings. The students also learn about evangelistic strategies, finances, management, team development and more. The SWAU course includes classroom instruction and practical involvement in an evangelistic series. This year, we traveled to Albuquerque, where I assisted in teaching the course along with seasoned evangelist Stephen Brooks, Southwestern Union executive secretary.

Participating students (Samantha Lee Perez Mitchell, Martin Aaron Haro, Daniel Herrera, Alan Diaz, Josue Martinez, Marc McAllister, Jose Vargas,

Rukundo Nsengiyumva and Desi Gomez) went to Albuquerque for this intensive six-week course. The students ranged in age and in both preaching and life experiences.

Brooks conducted the first evangelistic series at the Albuquerque Heights Church with the church’s pastor, Jerry Pinzon, from May 11 to 25. This gave the students the opportunity to participate in various evangelistic roles and activities, ranging from transporting people, greeting, registering participants, conducting children’s programming, providing audio-visual support and translating. The highlight for the students was learning firsthand from Brooks and witnessing the Holy Spirit work through baptisms and spiritual decisions among attendees.

Following Brooks’ series, students conducted their own two-week evangelistic series at local churches. Topics ranged from “How Can You Know the Future?” to “The Return and Second Coming of Jesus.” Sabbaths were marked with impactful preaching followed by nightly messages. The students had two days off, which they used for community engagement, including family visits and fellowship with church members. Throughout, the students received unwavering support and mentorship from the members of the congregations.

But life for these students extended beyond ministry. There was plenty of time for fellowship. The students agreed that the best fellowship was

during special meals with various pastors and other leaders from the Southwestern Union and Texico Conference. Each leader offered wisdom, prayer, guidance and affirmation to the students. Additionally, the area pastors—John Abbot, Ricardo Castro, Heraclio Robles, Saul Flores, Leo Cummins, Rodel Liwanag and Joslen Lache—supported and encouraged the students in their appointed roles.

Southwestern Adventist University was not alone in this evangelism effort. The success of this endeavor was bolstered by support from the Southwestern Union, Texico Conference and Seminars Unlimited, who assisted with logistical and promotional support. I extend my gratitude to all who helped with this ministry endeavor, especially Stephen Brooks, Lee-Roy Chacon and the pastors and congregations who opened their doors and hearts.

In reflection, this summer was not merely an academic exercise but a profound spiritual journey, fulfilling Habakkuk 1:5, “Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Many souls were baptized, and lives were transformed, demonstrating God’s faithful promise and the power of His gospel.

By Gabriel Perea SWAU Associate Professor of Theology and Religion

Clovis Church Choir Expands Musical Ministry

CLOVIS, N.M. – The Clovis Seventh-day Adventist Church choir is delighted to announce an exciting new chapter in its ministry. This year, the choir embarked on a journey of sharing the gift of music with other churches within

the Texico Conference, spreading joy and inspiration through song.

On March 30, the choir had the privilege of performing several uplifting songs at the Lubbock Seventh-day Adventist Church. The reception they

received was heartwarming, with the congregation extending a cordial and sincere welcome.

This moment was a blessing for both the choir members and the listeners, and it reaffirmed the choir’s love for spreading God’s message through the powerful means of music.

Encouraged by the performance in Lubbock, the choir is eagerly looking ahead to future opportunities. Plans are in place for upcoming performances at Adventist churches in Roswell and Amarillo.

As the Clovis church choir continues to spread God’s message of love and hope through their music, they do so with hearts full of gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead.

By Genique Elliott

Rio Rancho Participates in Bible Study Training

RIO

N.M. – Recently, members of the Rio Rancho Seventh-day Adventist Church engaged in a study program aimed at preparing them to fulfill the gospel commission to teach and preach the word of God without hesitation or doubt.

Participants studied Kurt Johnson’s “How to Give a Bible Study” booklet. In addition to this book, attendees were given a comprehensive packet of supplementary resources.

Each session featured dynamic presentations emphasizing the essential need for the Holy Spirit, prayer and personal commitment. Practical aspects of the training covered topics such as lesson preparation through diligent study, the significance of pairing with a partner, initiating the first visit, establishing friendships and the importance of assessing household needs before beginning study sessions. Participants were also guided through the process of conducting the study itself,

navigating decision-making moments and addressing objections with skill and confidence.

To reinforce their learning, participants engaged in interactive role-playing exercises during practice visits, adding an element of enjoyment, inspiration and profound educational value to the training. As the program concluded, attendees emerged

equipped with enhanced capabilities and invigorated by the camaraderie and shared commitment to their mission. The Rio Rancho church looks forward to the outcomes this valuable training may yield in the future.

By Robert Gardner

RANCHO,

Huguley Chaplain Drawn to Ministry

BURLESON, TEX. – Born and raised in Augusta, Ga., Stephanie WhitleyFerguson started her professional journey in dental hygiene, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from the Medical College of Georgia. But her path took an unexpected turn when she felt a distinct calling to ministry.

Growing up, Whitley-Ferguson didn’t often see women working in ministry, but her affinity for it could not be ignored. She participated in various

forms of ministry throughout her life, from serving as an usher in church to to providing leadership for Sabbath School programs. Eventually, she realized her passion was in chaplaincy, a role that allowed her to help people in a practical and meaningful way.

After completing her Master of Divinity degree from Andrews University in 2015, Whitley-Ferguson started her chaplaincy journey. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant

challenges, leaving her without a job for nearly a year. Still she persevered and found her calling at Texas Health Huguley Hospital.

“I feel like God led me here,” she said. “It was an opportunity that came at a time when I needed it. Just by interviewing with the team and seeing the facility, I could feel how familyoriented and supportive it was. I felt like I could be myself.”

One of Whitley-Ferguson’s most impactful experiences occurred during a conversation with a patient. After the patient received distressing news from the medical team, Whitley-Ferguson went into the room to offer support. In that moment, the patient felt safe to express her fears and concerns without judgment. Whitley-Ferguson’s empathy and heartfelt prayer provided comfort and reassurance, leaving a lasting impact on the patient’s journey.

By Jasmine Zamora-Garcia Communications Specialist

Mansfield Chaplain Finds Purpose Amidst Loss

MANSFIELD, TEX. – Born to Italian immigrants and raised in New York, Sonia Vergel married and had two boys before moving to Texas when Vergel’s husband received a job offer from Southwestern Adventist University.

Then, around eight years ago, the Vergel family’s lives drastically changed. Their oldest son, age 9, was diagnosed with leukemia. He was hospitalized for five months and never came home, passing away in Jan. 2016. Nine months into their healing journey, Sonia’s husband received a cancer diagnosis of his own. He battled cancer for nearly two years before passing away in March 2018, leaving Vergel and her youngest son behind.

“I remember praying, ‘Lord, I don’t

know what You are going to do with all of this, but all I know is that I want to serve and be a source of comfort to someone,” said Vergel.

As she reflected and wrestled with the pain, she found herself thinking about her son’s chaplain. She was moved by the chaplain’s ministry and remembers thinking, “That’s what I want to be.” It was then that she decided to enroll in chaplaincy studies. After completing part of her chaplaincy internship with Texas Health Hospital Mansfield, Vergel was invited to become a permanent team member. Vergel’s story influences the way she serves and provides care for her patients and colleagues.

When the person she is serving

demonstrates vulnerability, Vergel feels like she is making a difference.

By Lizbeth Rodriguez-Diep Administrative Intern

Southwestern Adventist University

A New Era for SWAU Dinosaur Research Project

NEW CASTLE, WYO. – On June 3, 2024, Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) celebrated the grand opening of a new research facility at the Hanson Research Station in Wyoming, marking a significant milestone for the renowned Dinosaur Research Project. The event drew a large crowd, including speakers; notable attendees; major donors and the Hanson family; whose ranch hosts this groundbreaking research facility.

The need for a larger facility that could adequately support the demands of the growing project became critical in 2018 when a storm destroyed the original research settlement, which consisted of one small modular building. In the aftermath, plans for a robust rebuild took shape, with partnerships formed between SWAU, Maranatha Volunteers International and key donors.

Today, the state-of-the-art facility provides researchers with protection from the harsh environment and offers numerous amenities, including a high-capacity kitchen, an adequate number of bathrooms and showers, a garage for vehicle and fossil storage, an IT room that provides the station with high-speed Wi-Fi and GPS equipment and a visitor center with a showroom detailing the project’s history. A large meeting space serves multiple purposes, from meals and lectures to group worship sessions. This comprehensive upgrade aims to support ongoing research.

The Dinosaur Research Project, a cornerstone of SWAU’s scientific endeavors, has been active for over 26 years. Significant discoveries include Triceratops skulls and a rare Nano-tyrannosaur jawbone (there are only three known specimens worldwide). Each year, SWAU faculty, staff and students, along with enthusiastic researchers and citizen scientists from all over the world, participate in the excavation process, fostering a unique

educational experience.

The ceremony featured speeches from influential figures such as property owner Carolyn Hanson; project founder Arthur Chadwick, Ph.D.; Jared Wood, Ph.D., a key developer of the Dinosaur Dig Research Project; and SWAU President Ana Patterson. Also present were representatives from Maranatha, including Kyle Fiess and Don Noble, as well as major donor Ed Zinke. The presence of architects, builders and distinguished guests added to the event’s significance.

During the ceremony, Patterson recognized the Hanson family, Maranatha’s partnership and key donors like Ed Zinke and Rusty McKee. Following the ribbon cutting, attendees enjoyed a celebratory lunch and mingled, discussing the building’s significance. David Woods, the station’s builder, led a tour of the new facilities, followed by guided visits to the bone beds, where guests learned about SWAU’s taphonomy research process.

“Not every university would put this kind of thing on its campus, and Southwestern has certainly been a strong supporter of this program,” Zinke said. “I was surprised one day when I was here walking around

looking at people who were excavating bones, when there I saw the vice president for education of the Southern African division. I thought to myself, that’s exactly what this place is about—impacting the entire church, not just Southwestern. We appreciate what’s happening.”

Patterson concluded with inspiring words: “A quote came to my mind from a book familiar to many of you, Steps to Christ , which says, ‘Many are the ways in which God is seeking to make Himself known to us and to bring us into communion with Him. Nature speaks to our senses without ceasing.’ I think it is incredible how in a place like this, nature can speak to us communally about God, but also individually. May this be a place where God continues to speak to each one of us.”

The Hanson Research Station is now open for visitors and welcomed over 2,000 guests this past August from the International Pathfinder Camporee. Looking ahead, the research station plans to expand its operations and enhance efficiency, seeking more Christian researchers and partners worldwide to further its mission.

By Coby Federowski Digital Marketing Manager

Professors’ Words to Their Younger Selves

KEENE, TEX. – Entering college is a pivotal moment, filled with excitement, uncertainty and endless possibilities. It's a time to lay the foundation for future careers and personal growth. To guide those embarking on this journey, our professors shared advice they would give their younger selves just starting out. Their reflections offer valuable insights for students setting out on their own academic and professional paths.

For Simangele Tshuma, D.N.P., associate professor of nursing, perseverance and resilience were crucial. Arriving in Texas from Zimbabwe, she faced significant challenges, including the devastating loss of her father, who had always emphasized education as the cornerstone of her future. "Through these hardships, my faith in God and family provided the greatest support, guiding and giving me strength," she recalled.

Tshuma’s advice to current students is to embrace every challenge and stay dedicated to their goals. "Education is your greatest tool, and hard work—combined with smart strategies—will set you apart. Seek support when needed, and always believe in

yourself. Each step you take, no matter how difficult, brings you closer to your dreams. Remember, your efforts today will shape your future success."

Lindsey Gendke, Ph.D., department chair and associate professor of English, struggled with depression during high school and expected college to be a magical solution. However, the reality was different. "Despite being a straight-A high school student, I quickly learned I was not emotionally equipped for college. I dropped out before completing my first semester," she admitted.

Gendke emphasized the importance of emotional health over academics. "Today, I would tell my 18-year-old self that there is no perfect or painless path to a degree—just like there is no quick fix for healing. Emotional health has to come before academics. Over the past 20 years, I have learned firsthand that God wants to grant the desires of your (broken) heart—and He wants to heal your heart, too. Trust Him. Wait on His perfect timing, and He will do all this and more!"

Pablo Gonzalaz, Ph.D., associate professor of mathematics and physical sciences, advises new students to

seek guidance and manage their time wisely. Reflecting on his own journey, he encourages his younger self to rely on God for direction. "You are going to need guidance,” he said, “and who better than the one who designed this pathway for you: God. You may need to wait patiently for His answer, but He is going to show up in His perfect time; keep trusting."

Gonzalaz also highlighted the importance of time management in college. "You will find yourself with a lot of free time,” he said. “Your schedule is no longer from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Be wise in the way you use your time."

He stressed the value of building a network. "Look for students who have crossed the path that you will start soon,” he advised. “Talk to them. Ask for advice about the best professor for a specific course or if you should combine certain classes during a semester. Knowledge will open doors and help you network, which is the key to your success in college."

Lastly, Gonzalaz reminded students to stay resilient in the face of failure. "We all fail certain classes, tests or research, but never give up. Life is about challenges and how you will react to them. If you fail, get back on your feet and try it again and again."

As these professors reflected on their journeys, their advice underscored the importance of perseverance, emotional health and wise time management. For students entering college, these words of wisdom offer a roadmap to navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead. Embrace the journey, learn from every experience and trust in the guidance you receive along the way.

By Coby Federowski Digital Marketing Manager

Classified Ads

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Southern Adventist University seeks a full-time teaching faculty member in the department of applied technology, specifically in the area of construction management. Master’s degree in construction management related field is required. The successful candidate will demonstrate competency in the varied trade areas relevant to course content and, ideally, have experience in commercial construction. Candidate must be capable of mentoring university students and have a strong commitment to Christ. For more information, please visit Southern.edu/jobs

Southern Adventist University seeks a full-time engineer teaching faculty member for the school of engineering and physics in the areas of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering. The ideal candidate will be proficient in developing and teaching undergraduate engineering courses, including both lecture and laboratory components. Master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, computer engineering or related area required. Doctorate preferred. Prior higher education teaching experience and/ or relevant industry experience preferred. For a full

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Southern Adventist University seeks a full-time faculty in the area of counseling for school of education/psychology. A doctoral degree in counselor education from a CACREP-accredited program is required. Doctoral degrees in clinical or counseling psychology from APA-accredited program could be considered if applicant has been employed as full-time faculty member in a counselor education program for a minimum of one full academic year before July 1, 2013. For a full job description and desired qualifications please visit Southern.edu/jobs

Southern Adventist University seeks a full-time program director to launch a new doctor of physical therapy degree program. The ideal candidate will be proficient in managing the CAPTE accreditation process and new program development and teaching graduate physical therapy courses, as well as clinical practice. In addition, the successful candidate will be committed to mentoring advisees, nurturing student learning in and out of the classroom and disciplining students in Jesus Christ. For a full job description and desired qualifications please visit Southern.edu/jobs

Southern Adventist University seeks qualified candidates for the following staff salaried positions: director of marketing and enrollment management for graduate and professional studies; systems analyst for information technology; DHSI retention and resilience coordinator

for academic support and retention services (reopened) and associate chaplain for the office of ministry and missions. For more information, go to Southern.edu/jobs

Southern Adventist University seeks qualified candidates for the following staff hourly positions: office manager for the chemistry department; S.A.L.T. outreach coordinator for the school of religion; cashier/ customer service clerk for the Village Market; automotive technician for applied technology/Southern Auto Care and deli manager for the Village Market. For more information, please visit Southern.edu/jobs

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There are several churches in area to choose from. References required, thank you. Please call Lisa 317.459.1060 or email LisaSummersTinsley@gmail.com

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TEACH Services Helping Authors:

Publish your book, including editing, design, marketing and worldwide distribution. Visit TEACHServices.com to submit your manuscript for a free evaluation or call 800.367.1844 Shop for new/used Adventist books at TEACHServices.com or at your local ABC.

Free App: Discover faith-building, Bible-based and Christ-centered radio programs for all ages. LifeTalk Radio streams all music at LifeTalkMusic.net and awesome kids programs at LifeTalkKids. net . Or listen to talk radio at LifeTalk.net . Download our app at LifeTalk.net

Do you have some health and wellness challenges? Located in Northwest Arkansas, Wellness Secrets can help! Whether it’s cooking classes, natural

treatments, a delicious meal at our plant-based restaurant or a free health consultation, we are here to help! Check out our website for a list of our services and programs today! Phone: 479.752.8555 Web: Wellness-Secrets.com Email: Contact@wellness-secrets.com

Partner with ASAP Ministries in serving the marginalized and reaching the unreached in Southeast Asia with the wholistic gospel. What you do today can change a life for eternity! To learn more, pleasae visit AsapMinistries.org Subscribe to our weekly Mission Matters videos. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube: AsapMinistries

OBITUARIES

Johnson, Edith M., born Jan. 30, 1937; died June 11, 2024, Baton Rouge, La. Church membership: Baton Rouge Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by her children, Angela and Vickie Johnson. Survivors: children, Lyndon B. Johnson and Deborah Johnson; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Luton, Mary Jo, born Feb. 7, 1949; died June 13, 2024, Nowata, Okla. Church membership: Nowata Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: children, Traci Triplett (Kenny), Stanley Williams II, Scott Williams (Jennifer), Frank Williams (Saundra) and Billy Williams (Angie); siblings, Allen Albert, Sherry Laughlin, Sandy Bucheck and Larry Albert (Ginger); 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

McElroy Jones, Donna Beth, born Aug. 24,1958, North Little Rock, Ark.; died April 17, 2024. Church membership: Sherwood Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, DeWitt and Ruby McElroy; brothers, James and Gary McElroy. Survivors: husband, David Jones; stepdaughters, Brandy and Ali; a sister-in-law and a nephew.

Sheppler, Juanita, born Sept. 2, 1945; died April 10, 2024, Nowata, Okla. Church membership: Nowata Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: husband, Larrie Sheppler; sisters, Wanda Sheppler and Marla Norton; brothers, Bill Nash and Lyndon Nash; children, David (Brenda) Sheppler and Christy Sheppler; four grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Stewart, Bertha S., born Dec. 23, 1936, Lexington, Miss.; died June 25, 2024, Zachary, La. Church membership: Baton Rouge Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by husband, Sherman Stewart Sr.; sons, Frank Scott and Sherman Stewart Jr.; parents, Wilburn and Alice Scott. Survivors: son, Curtis Scott Sr.; daughters, Genette (Harry) Smith and Debra Jones; nine grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Wallen, Helen Marie, born Nov. 16, 1930; died June 1, 2024, Bartlesville, Okla. Church Membership: Bartlesville Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by husband, Douglas; parents, Robert and Edna,

Florence B. Harris-Parker was born on May 27, 1931, in Byers, Colo., and died Dec. 13, 2023, in Albuquerque, N. M. The sixth child born to Effie Rose Weaver Lohman and Daniel Grover Lohman, Florence grew up on a ranch near Meeker, Colo. For the past 50 years, she lived in Ruidoso Downs, N.M., and was a charter member of the Ruidoso Downs Bilingual Seventh-day Adventist Church, having served there since the church was organized. She was also a charter member of the Ruidoso Downs Ladies Auxiliary. Florence was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Everett, Manford and Bill; three sisters, Lavonna, Betty and Dorothy; first husband, Johnny W. Anderson; second husband, Jesse C. Harris; and two step-daughters, Nancy Harris and Carol Ann Harris Pior. She is survived by her husband of 19 years, Billy Parker, of Tijeras, N. M.; her daughter, Tracie Leighton (Tom) of Tijeras, N. M.; a sister, Janet White; three grandchildren, Felicia N. Graf (Alexis), Edward T. Leighton III (Amy) and Ashley A. Sandoval (Dennis); six step-children and their families; and many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly. She was a prayer warrior and loved and helped everyone around her.

and sister, Jane DeRosa. Survivors: sons, Gary and John; daughter, Karen; and grandson.

Webb, Edith “Edie” Rae, born Sept. 19, 1943, Monticello, Ark.; died June 20, 2024, Siloam Springs, Ark. Church membership: Springtown Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, John Bishop Beard and Carrie Bea (Clemons) Beard; husband, Ray Webb; son, Doug Webb; two brothers, Clyde Beard and Ronny Beard. Survivors: daughter, D’Rae Leigh Krein (Tom); sons, David Michael Webb (Tammy) and Danny Scott Webb (Gina);

daughter-in-law, Jennifer Webb; sister Martha Ryburn (Robert); seven grandsons; four granddaughters; one great-grandson and one great-granddaughter.

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.

September 27-29, 2024 SOUTHWESTERN UNION COWBOY & BIKER CAMP

Lone Star Camp

Athens, Texas

Short-Term Medical and Evangelistic Mission Trips

Whether you’re interested in becoming an international evangelist and preaching a series of meetings, or would like to serve through an AWR360° Health medical clinic as a medical professional or non-medical volunteer, we have various opportunities throughout the year.

Start planning now:

Visit: awr.org/missiontrips | Deadline to help with the evangelism program: Oct. 28

COMMUNITY

SABBATH

BIBLE

COMMUNITY

AMERICA

SUPREME

ADVENTISM

PARL

RELEVANT

ENGAGING

GOVERNMENT