Alberta Adventist News

Highlights

Bags of Love

Since its beginnings in 2009, Bags of Love has been a ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church that seeks to serve “where needed most.” Though the core purpose is, and has always been, to meet the immediate needs of displaced children, Bags of Love has grown to encompass this and so much more.

Alberta Adventist News is a print and digital media publication of the Alberta Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Editor Troy McQueen; Co-Editor Ruby Casipe; Graphic Design Mishell Raedeke/omnidesign.ca; Photo attribution: Alberta Adventist Communication unless otherwise noted. Submission Guidelines: albertaadventist.ca/aan; Submissions: aan@albertaadventist.ca

ELECTED OFFICIALS: President Jeff Potts; Executive Secretary/VP for Administration Melissa Cooke; Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer Keith Richter. DEPARTMENTAL DIRECTORS: Ministerial & Evangelism Tyler Rosengren; Human Resources Officer Jennifer Williams; Education Superintendent Gail R. Wilton; Planned Giving & Trust Services/Philanthropy Lynn McDowell; Foothills Camp Ken Harrington; Youth Roberson Dorelus; Communication/IT/Media Troy McQueen; Risk Management/ Project Development Llew Werner ALBERTA CONFERENCE OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: Address: 5816 Highway 2A, Lacombe, AB, T4L2G5. Office

Hours: Monday-Thur 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Phone: (403) 342-5044, Email: info@ albertaadventist. ca

SOCIAL MEDIA X: ABAdventist, Facebook: AlbertaAdventist, Instagram: ABAdventist, LinkedIn: ABAdventist, Website: albertaadventist.ca

WINTER 2024 EDITION

04Messagefrom thePresident

06Messagefrom theEditor

08HopeChannelCanada

12ADRACanada

14DepartmentNews

24YouthMinistry Overview

28AndFreedomforAll

33SunsetCalendar2025

38BagsofLove

40ChurchLife

52PhotoSubmissions

54AnAttitudeof Gratitudeat Christmas

56EducationNews

61MaskwacisNews

62InMemory

63Announcements

66Means&Meaning

18 Sherwood Care Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Facility

On the heels of its 55th anniversary, Sherwood Care, Alberta’s only Seventh-day Adventist owned long-term care facility, celebrated another historic milestone: the groundbreaking of its new, modern facility.

48 Sylvan Lake Church Turns Trash into Treasures

Running a successful Pathfinder club requires the Holy Spirit’s guidance, dedicated leadership, eager youth, skilled teachers, a suitable facility, a supportive sponsor church, and strong financial backing.

Top photo: Councillor Robert Parks speaking at the Growndbreaking Sherwood Care event.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Fond Memories of Christmas

Nancy and I have four wonderful daughters. They are all adults now. Two of them have children of their own. One of my favourite Christmas memories is about something we used to do when our children were young. We wanted Christmas to be about Jesus. Nancy and I decided a good way to do that would be to act out the Christmas Story. We did this each Christmas Eve.

The girls would decide who they wanted to be Mary, Joseph, a shepherd, a wiseman. I built a wooden manger, and we placed a doll in it to represent baby Jesus. Some Christmases we were with Nancy’s family. Sometimes we were with my family. Some Christmases we were home by ourselves. But regardless of where we were, we included everyone present in our small, family Christmas pageant. One year

“GodsolovedtheworldthatHegaveHisoneand onlySon,thatwhoeverbelievesinHimshallnot perishbuthaveeternallife.” John 3:16 NIV

we were home with my family. My two brothers and I were the 3 Magi that year —we wore bath robes and entered the living room singing, “We three Kings of Orient are, bearing gifts we traverse afar…” If I recall correctly, we carried different Tupperware containers to represent the gold, frankincense and myrrh which we presented to Jesus. Usually, one of our girls would play the part of Mary, the mother of Jesus. They would hide the doll under their robe. At the right time, they would produce baby Jesus and declare that He had been born. One year I was the donkey on which Mary rode into Bethlehem. I forget which of my daughters was Mary that year. Whoever it was, she rode on my back into the living room as Joseph went to the Inn to try and find lodging.

One year we were home alone with our children. There were no extra family members with us that year. Just Nancy and I and our girls. I don’t remember whose idea it was. But that year we draped a large sheet over our kitchen table, so that it extended down to the floor on all sides. We all pressed inside, under the table, and that became the stable where Jesus was born. I don’t remember why, but that year we all ate a meal under the table, sitting on the linoleum, in our makeshift stable. One of our girls was Joesph. Another was Mary. The rest of us were the animals —a cow, a sheep, and a donkey. Baby Jesus lay in the manger beside us.

Many of these memories are reinforced by the photos we took. When I look back through the photo albums, I smile. These pictures bring joy to my heart. Through this

simple family tradition, our daughters internalized the Christmas story. They will never forget this immortal truth —“God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 NIV)

My friend, I encourage you to build your own family memories around Christmas. Keep Jesus at the centre. May God richly bless you and your family, as you celebrate the greatest GIFT ever given!

Jeff Potts President Alberta Conference

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Practical Strategies for Effective Church Communication

Jesus was a master communicator, using language, parables, and personal connection to convey profound spiritual truths in ways that resonated with diverse audiences. His approach to communication was not only transformative in His time but serves as a powerful example for churches today seeking to enhance their outreach and internal communication.

One clear example of Jesus’ masterful communication

is found in the story of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). In this powerful teaching, Jesus used simple, relatable language to convey deep spiritual truths about the Kingdom of God, addressing issues like love, forgiveness, and righteousness. His use of metaphors like salt and light (Matthew 5:1316) made abstract concepts tangible, helping His listeners grasp the importance of living out their faith in daily life. Through clear messaging,

relatable storytelling, and a deep understanding of His audience, Jesus built bridges across social, cultural, and religious divides. For churches today, adopting similar strategies—focusing on clarity, empathy, and intentional engagement—can foster deeper connections within congregations and create a more effective and inclusive ministry.

Here are some practical tips to enhance communication within your church:

1. Utilize Multiple Channels of Communication:

No single method of communication works for everyone. Some members may prefer traditional means, like bulletins or verbal announcements, while others gravitate toward modern options like email, social media, or even church apps. By utilizing a mix of communication platforms, the church can reach a broader audience and ensure that no one feels disconnected.

2. Be Clear, Concise, and Inclusive: Church messages should be straightforward, using language that is both clear and inclusive. Avoid jargon or complex terms that may alienate some members of the congregation. Whether in a sermon, newsletter, or social media post, the message should be easy to understand while resonating with people from diverse backgrounds.

3. Foster Two-Way Communication:

Effective communication is not a one-way street. Encourage feedback through methods such as suggestion boxes, surveys, or personal conversations. This ensures that members feel their opinions are valued, while also providing church leaders with valuable insights into the congregation’s needs and perspectives.

4. Leverage Technology for Greater Reach:

Technology has become a vital tool for churches, particularly in keeping members connected when they cannot attend in person. From live-streaming services to maintaining an active presence on social media, churches can use technology to keep the congregation informed, inspired, and engaged.

Biblical Wisdom on Communication

The Bible provides a wealth of guidance on how we should communicate with one another. Here are two key scriptures that illuminate the power and significance of communication: Ephesians 4:29 (NIV): “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

This verse underscores the responsibility to ensure our words are edifying and constructive, contributing to the spiritual and emotional growth of others. Communication within the church should serve to uplift, inspire, and encourage all who hear.

Proverbs 15:1 (NIV): “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

This proverb highlights the importance of kind, measured communication. In moments of tension or conflict, choosing gentle words can defuse potential discord and foster peace and understanding within the congregation.

Troy McQueen Communications/IT Director Alberta Conference

HopeChannel

WELCOME TO HOPE CHANNEL CANADA, THE OFFICIAL TELEVISION OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN CANADA, WORKING TO LET CANADIANS KNOW THAT, IN JESUS, THERE'S MORE TO LIFE.

HOPE CHANNEL CANADA is a comprehensive media ministry, available on multiple platforms. Its programs are intended to benefit not only believers of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, but any individual.

HOPE CHANNEL CANADA strives to be the preferred television experience for viewers from every cross section of society looking for answers to questions about their faith, healthy lifestyle, relationships, and community. In line with biblical values, HOPE CHANNEL CANADA endeavours to be the media that brings viewers closer to God and helps them to obtain a better understanding of the Bible to find freedom, healing, and hope in Jesus.

HOPE CHANNEL CANADA IS AVAILABLE 24/7, AND CAN BE WATCHED:

& On the HopeTV.ca website & On the Hope Channel App, available on the

App Store, Google Play and the Amazon App Store & On the Roku app & On YouTube: youtube.com/@hopechannelcanada & On Cable Television:

• Channel 893 on Eastlink, Delta, and Coastal

• Channel 94 on Cit yWest

HERE'S A PREVIEW OF THE PROGRAMS LAUNCHING IN THE FALL OF 2024, AND THEIR WEEKLY SCHEDULE.

AGENTS OF HOPE, with Tiffany Campbell-Dailey and Eva/do Vicente. Stories of lives impacted by media ministry and news of what's happening at Hope Channel Canada. 7 Peter 1:13

MORE TO LIFE, with Robert Zama. Helping viewers discover God, addressing existential questions, and providing ways to encounter Him in various aspects o f life.

Romans 15:13

THE GREAT OUTDOORS, with Jeff Potts. Jeff invites you to explore Canada's natural beauty, and learn more about the God who created it all. Psalm 19:1-2

L ENSES OF LOVE, with S amuel Sinnanainar

Experience the power o f God's love, deepen your spiritual relationship with Him, and reflect that love in your life. 1 John 4:16

RAINMAKERS, with Paul Llewellyn. Interviews with people who make a difference in their comm unities, and help their neighbours experience God's love in practical ways.

Isaiah 52:7

THE GIFT, with Cyril Millett Ill. Sabbath is a gift of time for physical rest, spiritual renewal, and service to others, restoring relationships with God and among people.

Ma r k2:27

HOPE STUDY, with Paul Antunes

The Bible, revealing God's wisdom and love is still relevant and alive today. Hope Study answers viewers' questions from a biblical perspective. Isaiah 40:8

IT IS WRITTEN CANADA, with Mike and Rene Lemon.

A global media ministry highlighting stories of lives transformed by God, marriage and family seminars, and hea Ith retreats. Matthew 4:4

APPRENTICESHIP, with Douglas and Rebeca Pereira.

Taking viewers into a lifelong transformational journey as Jesus' apprentices, learning to love, serve and be like the Master. Luke 14:27

MESSENGER, with Adrianna Lewis.

The Messenger magazine is lifting off the pages and onto the screen. Watch in more detail the stories found in the Messenger. Mark 16:15

IL EST ECRIT, with Remy Ballais, Patrick Dupuis and Alberto Sosa.

Introducing to French-speaking viewers the person of Jesus Christ, the only solid point of reference and the only true hope for our world. Luke 4:4

ESTA ESCRITO CANADA, with Douglas and Rebeca Pereira.

Throughout the years, Portuguese speakers of all faiths and beliefs, have been inspired through these C hrist-c entered presentations.

1 Peter 1 :25

HOPE CHANNEL CANADA WEEKLY SCHEDULE

(TIMES PRINTED IN BOLD REPRESENT THE DAY AND TIME A NEW WEEKLY EPISODE AIRS)

&AGENTS OF HOPE

(LAUNCHES THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2024)

THURSDAY 7:00 P.M. ET (THURSDAY 4:00 P.M. PT)

THURSDAY 10:00 P.M. ET (THURSDAY 7:00 P.M. PT)

SATURDAY 5:00 P.M. ET (SATURDAY 2:00 P.M. PT)

MONDAY 2:00 A.M. ET (SUNDAY 11:00 P.M. PT)

MONDAY 9:30 A.M. ET (MONDAY 6:30 A.M. PT)

TUESDAY 6:30 P.M. ET (TUESDAY 3:30 P.M. PT)

THURSDAY 2:30 A.M. ET (WEDNESDAYl 1:30 P.M. PT)

&IL EST l:CRIT

(LAUNCHES THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2024)

THURSDAY 10:30 P.M. ET (THURSDAY 7:30 P.M. PT)

FRIDAY 8:00 A.M. ET (FRIDAY 5:00 A.M. PT)

FRIDAY 11:30 A.M. ET (FRIDAY 8:30 A.M. PT)

SATURDAY 12:30 P.M. ET (SATURDAY 9:30 A.M. PT)

SUNDAY 9:30 A.M. ET (SUNDAY 6:30 A.M. PT)

THURSDAY 5:00 P.M. ET (THURSDAY 2:00 P.M. PT)

&THE GREAT OUTDOORS

(LAUNCHES SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2024)

SATURDAY 5:30 P.M. ET (SATURDAY 2:30 P.M. PT)

TUESDAY 5:00 P.M. ET (TUESDAY 2:00 P.M. PT)

&MORE TO LIFE

(LAUNCHES WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2024)

WEDNESDAY 7:00 P.M. ET (WEDNESDAY 4:00 P.M. PT)

WEDNESDAY 10:00 P.M. ET (WEDNESDAY 7:00 P.M. PT)

SATURDAY 2:00 A.M. ET (FRIDAY 11:00 P.M. PT)

SUNDAY 12:00 A.M. ET (SATURDAY 9:00 P.M. PT)

SUNDAY 3:00 A.M. ET (SUNDAY 12:00 A.M. PT)

MONDAY S:30 P.M. ET (MONDAY 2:30 P.M. PT)

WEDNESDAY 2:30 A.M. ET (TUESDAY 11:30 P.M. PT)

&THE GIFT

(LAUNCHES FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2024)

FRIDAY 7:00 P.M. ET (FRIDAY 4:00 P.M. PT)

FRIDAY 10:00 P.M. ET (FRIDAY 7:00 P.M. PT)

SATURDAY 9:00 A.M. ET (SATURDAY 6:00 A.M. PT)

&HOPE STUDY

(LAUNCHES MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024)

MONDAY 7:00 P.M. ET (MONDAY

MONDAY 10:00 P.M. ET (MONDAY

WEDNESDAY 12:00 A.M. ET (TUESDAY

THURSDAY 7:30 P.M. ET (THURSDAY

FRIDAY 5:00 A.M. ET (FRIDAY

SUNDAY 2:30 A.M. ET (SATURDAY

4:00 P.M. PT)

7:00 P.M. PT) 9:00 P.M. PT)

4:30 P.M. PT)

2:00 A.M. PT) 11:30 P.M. PT)

& MESSENGER

(LAUNCHES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2024)

SUNDAY 7:00 P.M. ET (SUNDAY 4:00 P.M. PT)

SUNDAY 10:00 P.M. ET (SUNDAY 7:00 P.M. PT)

SATURDAY 4:00 P.M. ET (SATURDAY 1:00 P.M. PT)

&ESTA ESCRITO CANADA

(LAUNCHES THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2024)

THURSDAYS:00 A.M. ET (THURSDAY 2:00 A.M. PT)

MONDAY 2:30 A.M. ET (SUNDAY 11:30 P.M. PT)

& APP RENTICESHIP

(LAUNCHES WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2024)

WEDNESDAY 10:30 P.M. ET (WEDNESDAY 7:30 P.M. PT)

SATURDAY 7:30 A.M. ET (SATURDAY 4:30 A.M. PT)

MONDAY S:00 A.M. ET (MONDAY 2:00 A.M. PT)

&RAINMAKERS

(LAUNCHES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2024)

SUNDAY 9:30 P.M. ET (SUNDAY 6:30 P.M. PT)

WEDNESDAY S:00 A.M. ET (WEDNESDAY 2:00 A.M. PT)

SATURDAY 9:30 A.M. ET (SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. PT)

&LENSES OF LOVE

(LAUNCHES TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2024)

TUESDAY 7:00 P.M. ET

TUESDAY 10:00 P.M. ET

FRIDAY 12:30 A.M. ET

SATURDAY 2:30 A.M. ET

SATURDAY 3:00 P.M. ET

SUNDAY 9:00 A.M. ET

TUESDAY 2:00 A.M. ET (TUESDAY (TUESDAY (THURSDAY (FRIDAY (SATURDAY (SUNDAY (MONDAY 4:00 P.M. PT) 7:00 P.M. PT) 9:30 P.M. PT) 11:30 P.M. PT) 12:00 P.M. PT) 6:00 A.M. PT) 11:00 P.M. PT)

&IT IS WRITTEN CANADA

MONDAY 11:30 P.M. ET

TUESDAY 8:00 A.M. ET

TUESDAY 11:00 A.M. ET

THURSDAY 2:00 A.M. ET

FRIDAY 6:00 P.M. ET

(THURSDAY 8:30 P.M. PT) (TUESDAY S:00 A.M. PT) (TUESDAY 8:00 A.M. PT) (WEDNESDAY 11:00 P.M. PT) (TUESDAY 3:00 P.M. PT)

The Year of the Backpack

This year (2024) has been The Year of the Backpack for ADRA Canada. Over the last twelve months, this simplest of tools has played a significant part in showing care and concern for people nationwide. In Ontario, donors, partner organizations, and church volunteers helped ADRA assemble care packages for migrant workers in Orono County. The backpacks contained basic hygiene and comfort essentials like deodorant, bodywash, warm socks, and more. While those items are certainly commonplace, they are also often inaccessible to migrant workers whose pay and living circumstances put them at a distinct disadvantage despite their vital role in Canada’s seasonal agricultural work.

In late June, ADRA staff and volunteers prepared similar backpack care packages

in Quebec. During a single strenuous day, dedicated and passionate church members helped pack 1000 backpacks – this time full of school supplies for children – to be distributed across 12 different locations in Montreal, Gatineau, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Laval and Saint-Hubert. The volunteers, including a few children, generally expressed positive sentiments about the exercise, saying that they hoped things like this could be done more frequently.

When the wildfires that affected so many in Jasper, Alberta began to make headlines, ADRA did not initially enter “backpack mode.” At the beginning of our campaign for those affected, our team anticipated that financial assistance and hygiene kits would be the most urgent needs on the ground for the roughly 25,000 people who had been forced to evacuate.

ADRA’s regional program manager Andrea Lavy (left) alongside Principal Eric Bouchard (center) of École Jasper Elementary School and Janeth Vasquez (right) Alberta Conference Club Ministries Director.

Backpacks ready to be delivered to students.

But human needs, much like a wildfire, can be unpredictable and change unexpectedly. While ADRA was preparing to deliver hygiene supplies and direct cash transfers, local voices spoke up and alerted us to their more deeply felt needs. ADRA pivoted accordingly. The money was rerouted to filling up backpacks with school supplies. These would support the ongoing educational journeys of 250 children whose lives had been so stunningly disrupted by the fires. After making that adjustment, ADRA began collaborating with the municipality of Jasper to arrange for direct financial assistance for 42 other affected community members.

What I have begun calling the “Year of the Backpack” has coincided with ADRA Canada’s emphasis on the themes of “Compassion in Action,” and “Faith Without Boundaries.” I think that our backpackrelated projects illustrate a truth embedded in both of those phrases: We must be flexible in how we respond to the real needs of real people. There are no boundaries or limits to how God will act out His compassion through us.

The famous “armour of God” described in Ephesians 6:1417 includes a belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, and sword. It seems to me that in 2024, the Holy Spirit added a backpack. May the backpack remind us of the message we carry and to always be prepared to share with those in need.

Maxwell Aka is a fundraising writer for ADRA Canada

Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada

Future Teacher Scholarship

Are you planning to pursue an education degree at an accredited Adventist College/university in Canada or the United States?

Apply TODAY for the opportunity to receive a 4-year scholarship up to $7000 CDN

Deadline to apply March 15

NEWS DEPARTMENT

Some participants of the first annual Alberta Conference Prayer Retreat, June 2024.

Going Deeper with Jesus

Iexperience, and I hear from many others, we are busy, constantly doing. Jesus saw the disciples trapped in the cycle of doing and called to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31 (NIV) Jesus gives us rest for our souls. We experience His power when we come away with Him, by ourselves, to a quiet place, and be with Him. We disengage from that which distracts from being with Him and we engage in that which opens space for us to go deeper with Him.

Many who call themselves Christian are ‘Cultural Christians,’ who go to church, like the values of Christianity, and hang out with other Christians. A ‘child of God’ has a profound experience of their sinfulness and absolute dependence on God. They are in awe of God’s grace and humbly submit to God’s call to emotional and spiritual health. Do you come away with Jesus, every day, to be with Him, to be in His presence, to listen to Him? Or do you do all the talking in your quiet times with God? We need to be fully devoted children of God focused on ‘being’ with Him so that our ‘doing’ flows from ‘being His beloved child.’

The Alberta Conference has a Strategic Priority of Going Deeper with Jesus. Our desire is that every person who calls themselves a child of God will

‘be’ a power filled representative of God, living His love and grace, rather than simply ‘doing’ all the cultural parts of Christianity. In 2024 we have had the following opportunities to go Deeper with Jesus: February —“The Name” online prayer 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily; March—Prayer Conference with Pastor Pavel Goia; April and September—online Half Night of Prayer “Deeper!” and “Closer” respectively; May—“Vision” a day of prayer for the vision of the Alberta Conference; June—“Habits of Presence” first annual prayer retreat for the Conference; October—a day of Prayer for students/education; “Arise and Shine” 6:00 a.m., and “In His Presence” 6:00 p.m. daily online prayer time all year round.

We have begun a pilot project for a small group “Deep Calling” to go deeper with Jesus. Please plan to attend our second annual prayer retreat, May 30 - June 1, 2025. We have been and will continue to invite you to come be with Jesus. Go Deeper with Jesus than ever before.

Honey Todd

Alberta Conference Volunteer Prayer Ministries Coordinator and Nurture Pastor at College Heights Seventh-day Adventist Church

A Five-Step Stewardship Ministry Plan for Churches

According to some recent surveys, nearly half of Albertans are living in regret regarding the amount of debt they have taken on in life. Fully a third of Albertans report being $200 or less away from failing to meet their monthly financial obligations. Currently, more than one-fifth of Alberta residents are already insolvent and cannot pay their bills each month. (MNP Consumer Debt Index Report, reported April 8, 2024 at www.mnpdebt.ca, accessed on July 4, 2024).

It seems to me that the joyful experience of the Psalmist, as shared in Psalm 40:1-4 is missing for many of the residents of our province,

many Christian believers and members of our own churches in this conference.

The Psalmist declared "I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth— Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, And will trust in the LORD. Blessed is that man who makes the LORD his trust…” (Psalm 40:1-4 NKJV)

With so many people struggling financially these

days, what a blessing it could be if our churches were a place where the Psalm 40 testimony would ring out over and over again, and in particular, in relation to the financial struggles many of our members face. What a testimony it could be if we provided an environment for ministry where people found help to get out of the “horrible pit” (a.k.a. “the hole”), and stand upon a firm foundation!

So what can we do?

Here are five quick and simple points I believe can be helpful to our churches in the Alberta Conference as we seek to support our growing membership in the sensitive

Leadership Commitment. I believe that change can take place when pastors, elders and other church leaders make a commitment that the principles of wholistic Biblical stewardship will become a discipleship platform on which their congregations can grow. As spiritual leaders, we have a duty to guide the church culture to become one that incorporates the core value of Biblical stewardship and faithfully disciples our members.

1

Make a Plan. In the preaching, teaching, in-reach and outreach ministries of the church, we can make choices and plan a direction that always leads our people toward a full surrender and submission to the Lordship of Christ in every area of their lives. There are many ways to preach, teach, and live out the principles of wholistic Biblical stewardship in a variety of contexts. Church leaders and boards can plan for that intentionally.

2

Preach and Teach on Financial Faithfulness. Our churches should be a place where financial faithfulness and stewardship of possessions is spoken about without shame. Jesus taught about money and its impact on the believer’s life, so we can too. From the pulpit, in our classes, during seminars or small groups, we can teach that the acts of our financial stewardship are spiritual transactions instead of being just financial ones. We can uplift the principle that how we understand, and handle money will always impact our relationship with God.

3

Offer Practical Workshops. In our churches it should be a normal, next step in the discipleship process to include a strong stewardship training component for our new members (and any older members that need it, for that matter). So, get practical. We can offer classes and workshops supporting financial faithfulness and financial freedom that incorporate solid Biblical principles. As we do that, let’s remember not to do these classes, or make our appeals, in ways that are always focussed on what the church organization needs, but rather on what each individual believer needs to practice to grow spiritually.

4

Avail of Resources. There are resources that are available for supporting your church in teaching, preaching, doing workshops, and training your congregation’s members toward a life of deeper trust and faithfulness. Resources are available through the ABC, Advent Source, and of course, the Stewardship Departments of the Alberta Conference, the North American Division and the General Conference. One thing we rarely lack in our church is resources to support our ministry. However, often we lack in the utilization of those resources.

5

Money and finance are emotional topics, and generally people want to hide their financial struggles. They might want to avoid the topic of financial stewardship and personal money management for any number of reasons. However, the mature Christian leader recognizes that avoiding the topic of financial stewardship won’t be helpful to our members but can only work to deepen the growing problems that exist.

In the Alberta Conference, we are committed to preaching and teaching wholistic Biblical stewardship in such a way that supports our members,

and other Christian believers, to healthfully prioritize their personal life surrender to Christ, and address their questions of whole-life faithfulness. May God bless us in the year ahead as we seek to live our lives as dynamic and faithful disciples of Christ.

*If you would like to learn more about the goals and objectives of the Alberta Conference Stewardship Ministries department, or learn about resources available to help you or your church grow in faithfulness, please visit albertaadventist.ca/stewardship, or contact Pastor Jason Williams at stewardship@albertaadventist.ca

Pastor Jason Williams Volunteer Stewardship Coordinator, Alberta Conference

Sherwood Care Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Facility Following 55th Anniversary

On the heels of its 55th anniversary, Sherwood Care, Alberta’s only Seventhday Adventist owned longterm care facility, celebrated another historic milestone: the groundbreaking of its new, modern facility. This expansion will add 123 more beds—110 for long-term care and 13 for palliative care. The event symbolized not only growth for Sherwood Care but also its unwavering commitment to being the hands and feet of Jesus as it provides exceptional care to all its residents.

Hosted by CEO Kathy Fortunat, the event saw approximately 130 attendees, including special guests such

as Airlie Fowler, wife of the late Allan Fowler, Sherwood Care’s first CEO, and Elder Ed Teranski, a member of the original corporation who was present at the facility’s grand opening 55 years ago. The celebration began with a resounding trumpet call of praise to God, performed by Chaplain, Pastor David Benjamin, followed by a heartfelt prayer of thanksgiving and supplication led by Pastor Jeff Potts, President of the Alberta Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. These moments of worship set a reverent tone for the celebration of this significant milestone.

Kathy Fortunat then expressed her deep gratitude for the community’s ongoing support before introducing Alberta’s Minister of Health, Adriana LaGrange. Minister LaGrange highlighted the critical importance of expanding healthcare infrastructure to meet Alberta’s growing aging population. “Sherwood Care’s legacy of providing exceptional care is wellknown across the province. This expansion ensures that they will continue to serve with excellence, especially in the areas of long-term and palliative care,” she said.

“ For55years, SherwoodCarehas beenapillarofcare andcompassion inourcommunity. Thisnewfacilitywill allowittocontinue servingfuture generations,staying truetoitsmission ofholisticcare.”

Groundbreaking (from left to right) Minister Nate Glubish, Kathy Fortunat (CEO), Minister Adriana LaGrange, Councillor Robert Parks, Richard Wutzke (Board Chair).

Pastor David Benjamin —Chaplain— playing trumpet at opening.

Nate Glubish, Alberta’s Minister of Technology and Innovation, followed with remarks on the forwardthinking design of the new facility. “This project will integrate modern innovations to enhance both care delivery and operational efficiency, creating a better experience for residents and staff alike,” he stated.

Robert Parks, Councillor for Ward 1 of Strathcona County, also shared his thoughts on Sherwood Care’s enduring impact on the local community. “For 55 years,

Pastor Jeff Potts—President of Alberta Conference—leading prayer .

Sherwood Care has been a pillar of care and compassion in our community. This new facility will allow it to continue serving future generations, staying true to its mission of holistic care.”

The Chair of the Sherwood Care Board, Richard Wutzke, added further expressions of gratitude, emphasizing the teamwork and dedication involved in this monumental project.

At its core, Sherwood Care’s mission goes beyond simply meeting physical needs. It’s about being the hands and

feet of Jesus, offering love and dignity to all who walk through its doors. As the new facility takes shape, this expansion represents both an exciting new chapter and a continuation of the legacy that Sherwood Care has built over the past five decades.

Pastor David Benjamin dbenjamin@sherwoodcare.com

Kathy Fortunat—CEO.

The Impact of New Church Plants on Growth and Fellowship

There is something special that happens on the journey to becoming a fully-fledged church. Before a faith community is given the title “church,” there is a church organization service. This is a day full of testimonies, encouraging messages, well wishes from the Conference, and full member participation. There is a moment during the service where all founding members are called forward to sign their names. This document becomes a record of the individuals who had a God-sized dream to lay a foundation so that countless individuals may be influenced for the gospel in their neighbourhoods. I pray that every Seventhday Adventist in the Alberta Conference may experience this moment when God does a new thing.

There are some interesting facts about the makeup of new

church plants. Did you know that new church plants have a disproportionately large number of young adults? There are several reasons for this including open doors for leadership and voice, as well as the ability to experiment in methods that reach younger generations. New church plants are also comprised of many new residents or people who have recently relocated to the area. This may be due to the perception of a level playing field when it comes to member relationships, where everything is new and therefore there is no “newcomer.”

Finally, new people groups are more likely to be reached in church plants that can create cultural spaces for their flourishing. The seed for fellowship can be planted intentionally.

The most compelling aspect of new church plants is their evangelistic

potential. Missiologist Peter Wagner says, "Planting new churches is the most effective evangelistic methodology known under heaven.” The focus on outreach for a new church plant is not a philosophical exercise but rather an existential one. In order to keep their doors open every encounter must be considered an evangelistic opportunity. According to a survey conducted by The Leadership Network, new church plants grow 170% faster in their first five years than established churches.

If you wish to know more about the process or outcomes of our recently planted churches in the Alberta conference, I encourage you to attend our upcoming Seeds Church Planting Conference February 7-8, 2025 at the Garden Road Seventh-day Adventist Church in Calgary.

Moises Ruiz

Alberta Conference Volunteer Church Planting Coordinator and Red Deer Seventh-day Adventist Church Pastor

ROMANS & 1 CORINTHIANS

Unlock wisdom in Paul’s letters: explore justification, grace, and faith in Romans. Discover unity, love and spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians.

Mark your calendars for 2025:

How to Prepare:

Experience the powerful truths that will strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding.

• Area Level: February 1

• Alberta Conference Level: March 1

• Start with prayer and invite the Holy Spirit to guide you as you study.

• Break down each chapter, verse-by-verse, and discuss what it means to you.

• SDACC (Union) Level: March 22

• NAD Finals: April 25 - 26

• Practice together, quiz each other, and keep it fun!

Don’t miss out! Let’s come together, deepen our understanding of God’s Word and celebrate the joy of learning. Sign up today and be part of an experience that will inspire you and your team to live out the principles of faith, love, and unity!

Team Registration Deadline: December 28, 2024

SCAN ME

EVERY PENNY COUNTS

On the account of Gospel writer Luke in chapter 21:1-4, Jesus and His disciples were at the temple sitting near the offering boxes which were used by the people to put in their offering. This was the setting where Jesus spoke about the ultimate measure of generosity. Back then and even in our day and age, the culture still measures generosity by the size of the gift. This belief system has been the cause of painful emotion of shame as being perceived by others to be inferior or unworthy of respect. But the poor widow did an amazing courage to put in her two cents and Jesus did notice it. He then laid the foundations of the truth in verse 4, when He said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them, for they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given all that she has.” He placed the highest value in the inner motive and the faith of this woman through her generous act. The pen of inspiration adds that, “Its value was measured, not by the worth of the coin, but by the purity of the motive which prompted her” (Signs of the Times, January 21, 1886). The poor widow had showed sincere love, faith, and true benevolence as she gave all that she had, believing with all her heart to God’s care for her uncertain future. This exemplified courageous act of generosity and benevolence has been designed by God to keep and prevent our hearts from the great evil of covetousness (TC v3, p. 546). God desires us to experience

spiritual growth and begin cultivating a habit of giving when we have the eternal view and the true meaning of giving.

When Jesus pronounced blessings upon that sincere offering, it has given a vehicle to fulfill the great commission in accomplishing the desired outcomes.

“The widow’s mite has been a tiny stream flowing down through the ages, widening, and deepening in its course, and contributing in a thousand directions to the extension of the truth and the relief of the needy” (Reflecting Christ, p. 268). The Lord calls upon us to exercise the spirit of benevolence through the giving of our gifts and offerings. He has placed His riches in our hands to be wisely employed in sustaining the mission of the church in kingdom building. It is a sacred trust of placing our eternal investment to aid the opening of the gospel to those who are in the darkness and to aid the suffering world (Ibid). This story as recorded by Luke in the Gospel enabled countless men and women to hear it through centuries. Imagine the millions of people who have been blessed because the gift of generosity of this poor woman lives on.

A story is told of a young girl, Hattie May Wait, who lived in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania around the end of the 19th Century. She loved to go to a nearby church, but it was often so crowded that she could not find a seat. She decided to start saving her money to help build a bigger church. Her parents were very poor

and sadly she died about two years after she had started saving her pennies. When they were preparing her body for burial, they found beside her a little purse with fifty-seven cents inside and a note scribbled in her handwriting which signified to help build the little church bigger so more children can come to church. This has inspired the minister of the church that he started a fund-raising campaign that turned Hattie’s initial pennies into nearly a quarter of a million dollars to expand the church. God values and blesses every penny we give every Sabbath as He sees the intent, the purity of our motive and how we do it, that matters to Him. Genuine generosity is a tangible expression of gratitude and thankfulness that begins to flow from our lives.

“

Thewidow’smite hasbeenatiny stream flowing downthroughthe ages,widening, anddeepening initscourse,and contributingina thousanddirections totheextensionof thetruthandthe reliefoftheneedy.”

— Ellen G. White

Let me take you to the Pentecost experience of the apostles of Christ. It was the significant moment in Christian history that occurred after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The time was marked by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the followers of Jesus Christ before His ascension into heaven. One of the manifestations of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit was being generous (Acts 2:46, NLT). The Pentecost experience describes the result of God’s saving work. When people trust in Jesus and are filled with the Spirit, God forms the dynamic community that shares their lives together that no one will be lacking. It is of utmost importance to daily experience the baptism of the Holy Spirit to live a life of generosity as we understand how good and gracious God is and begin to live out our lives of gratitude.

On the final note, let us reflect how God has faithfully blessed the church congregations of the Alberta Conference year by year. He is

to be praised that according to the North American Division Tithe Remittance reports, Alberta Conference is the third highest tithes per capita in the region. However, the growth rate needs resources—financial and personnel to sustain in delivering the quality nurturing program as well as equipping the church leaders for church planting. Likewise, there is a continuing need of financial assistance and teaching personnel in our schools to increase the evangelistic capacity, in integrating faith and learning, delivering the quality and wholistic education to our growing young children and youth in our churches. One of the wholistic goals of our school system is “Maintaining a safe learning environment that reflects Adventist values, respects diversity, and promotes collaboration”, that they may be qualified as leaders of tomorrow to render useful service to God till eternity (CT, p. 495). It is a solemn responsibility to take the challenge and God’s invitation when He says, “Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it” Malachi 3:10 (NIV). King Solomon exhorts it in Proverbs 3:9-10, to honor God with our possessions and to bring Him the first fruits of our increase to demonstrate God is number one in our lives. The given promise that our barns will be filled to overflowing provision, provides the assurance of meeting our needs and sharing with others. God is preparing us as His chosen people to respond to the urgent call in Matthew 9:37-38, that the harvest is truly great and only few are willing to commit. He admonishes us to be on our knees and have consistent prayerful life that many will engage willfully in the business of saving souls.—Submitted by Solomon Agdon, Treasurer, Montana Conference

OVERVIEW YOUTH MINISTRY

2 0 2 5

Why We're Here:

This year, our primary focus is building stronger relationships with our youth and young adults, expanding leadership opportunities, and lifting Jesus higher in everything we do. We’re challenging you to think outside the box and dream those God-sized dreams. Be bold, get creative, and let’s collaborate to create something special!

What We're Doing:

As part of the Pentecost 2025 initiative, we’re inviting our youth and young adults to host 25 evangelistic events. Whether it’s a small group gathering, workshop, preaching series, outreach project, or a school week of prayer, there’s a place for everyone to make an impact.

In 2025, our prayer is that our churches and schools will be safe spaces where mentorship and leadership can thrive. Take a leap of faith this year listen more, pray harder, and love more deeply.

How We're Doing It:

The Alberta Conference Youth & Young Adult Department is here to equip you with training, resources, opportunities and ongoing support. We’re here to listen and to help you turn your vision into reality.

We’re committed to making “Growing Younger” more than just a slogan but a movement and a new approach to ministry in Alberta.

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

January 13-19

Kindness Challenge (*Virtual)

January 28

MANS Academy Tour

January 29

CAA Academy Tour

CLUB MINISTRIES

January 18

Master Guide Sabbath

SUMMER CAMP

Jan-Feb

Summer Camp Staff Hiring

ROADMAP YOUTH MINISTRY

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

February 4

PACeS Academy Tour

February 5

CWAA Academy Tour

February 10 PAA Academy Tour

February 1 PBE - Area Level

February 28 -March 2

Pathfinders Winter Camp

March 14-15

Global Youth Day (Alberta Wide)

MINISTRIES

March 1 PBE - Conference Level

March 8

Game. Area Level March 22

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

April 11-13

Ministries Convention

April 15

Youth & YA Debrief Call

CLUB MINISTRIES

April 25-26 PBE - NAD Level AUGUST

JULY

CLUB MINISTRIES

August 6-10

NAD Master Guide Camporee

SUMMER CAMP

August 3-9

Camp Session #4

August 10-16

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

July 18-26

Alberta Camp Meeting

CLUB MINISTRIES

July 11-13

Master Guide Camp

July 19

Club Ministries Parade

JUNE

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

June

Youth Mentorship Month

June 6-8

June 26-30

July 20

Pathfinder Tag Day

SUMMER CAMP

July 6-12

Camp Session #2

July 13-17

Camp Pitch/Pastors Camp

July 18-26

Camp Meeting

July 27-Aug 2

Camp Session #3

SEPTEMBER

CLUB MINISTRIES

September

Master Guide Outdoor Expedition

September 20

World Pathfinder Day

September 21

Pathfinder Fun Day

SUMMER CAMP

September 19-20

Young Adult Camp-Out

OCTOBER

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

October 13

2026 Calendar Release

CLUB MINISTRIES

October 5

Adventurer Family Fun Day

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

May 2-3

Adventurer Family Camp

Camp Session #5 MAY

Pathfinders Summer Camporee

CLUB MINISTRIES SUMMER CAMP

June 15-21

Leadership Orientation

June 22-28

Staff Orientation

June 29-July 5

Camp Session #1

NOVEMBER

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

November 14-16

ElevateX

Young Adults Retreat

Young Adult LIFE Tour (NAD) Tentatively May -June High School Graduations

CLUB MINISTRIES

May 10

Adventurer Bible Game Conf. Level

May 17

World Adventurer Day

DECEMBER

CALENDAR YOUTH MINISTRY

DATES YOUTH MINISTRY 2

0 2 5

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

January 13-19 - Kindness Challenge (*Virtual)

January 28 - MANS Academy Tour

January 29 - CAA Academy Tour

February 4 - PACeS Academy Tour

February 5 - CWAA Academy Tour

February 10 - PAA Academy Tour

March 14-15 - Global Youth Day (Alberta Wide)

April 11-13 - Ministries Convention

April 15 - Youth & YA Debrief Call

May 2-3 - Young Adult LIFE Tour (NAD) Tentatively

May - June - High School Graduations

June - Youth Mentorship Month

July 18-26 - Alberta Camp Meeting

October 13 - 2026 Calendar Release

November 14-16 - ElevateX Young Adults Retreat

CLUB MINISTRIES

January 18 - Master Guide Sabbath

February 1 - PBE - Area Level

February 28 -March 2 - Pathfinders Winter Camp

March 1 - PBE - Conference Level

March 8 - Adventurer Bible Game Area Level

March 22 - PBE - SDACC Level

April 25-26 - PBE - NAD Level

May 10 - Adventurer Bible Game Conf Level

May 17 - World Adventurer Day

June 6-8 - Adventurer Family Camp

June 26-30 - Pathfinders Summer Camporee

July 11-13 - Master Guide Camp

July 19 - Club Ministries Parade

July 20 - Pathfinder Tag Day

August 6 - 10 - NAD Master Guide Camporee

September - Master Guide Outdoor Expedition

September 20 - World Pathfinder Day

September 21 - Pathfinder Fun Day

October 5 - Adventurer Family Fun Day

SUMMER CAMP

Jan-Feb - Summer Camp Staff Hiring

June 15-21 - Leadership Orientation

June 22-28 - Staff Orientation

June 29-July 5 - Camp Session #1

July 6-12 - Camp Session #2

July 13-17 - Camp Pitch/Pastors Camp

July 18-26 - Camp Meeting

July 27-Aug 2 - Camp Session #3

August 3-9 - Camp Session #4

August 10-16 - Camp Session #5

September 19-20 - Young Adult Camp-Out

And Freedom for All: TheRoleoftheMaskwacisCree inDefendingReligiousLiberty

BY LYNN McDOWELL

A year ago, on Oct. 31, 2023, the North American Division (NAD) passed a statement on the Doctrine of Discovery—one of the calls to action requested of all churches by the Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The NAD’s Liberty magazine asked Lynn McDowell to write a feature story on the Doctrine of Discovery that appeared in its July- August issue (libertymagazine.org).

Indigenous leaders from Maskwacis, Alberta have played an important role in extending human rights and religious freedom at the United Nations level—one that benefits every individual regardless of origin. The following story demonstrates the strong commitment to religious liberty that the Adventist Church has in common with Indigenous Peoples, and the influence leaders in Maskwacis have in the Indigenous world. —Troy McQueen

Dr. Wilton Littlechild, Companion of the Order of Canada and member of the Alberta Order of Excellence.

Can centuries of legal precedent tainted by theology and human rights abuse be course-corrected? That possibility helped keep Ermineskin Cree Nation chief and lawyer Dr. Wilton Littlechild going for more than 45 years. Well-known internationally, Littlechild played a major role in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and in Pope Francis’ 2022 apology from Maskwacis for residential school abuses as well as the pope’s 2023 affirmation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

There were earlier milestones. Littlechild quietly rejoiced on June 21, 2021 in his Maskwacis, Alberta home when the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was given royal assent—legislative notice that going forward, the laws of Canada will be consistent with the declaration, and that the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of

Indigenous Peoples will be an important source for interpreting Canadian law. It had been 44 years since his first trip to the UN in 1977 to present human rights abuses— abuses rooted in the theology of the Doctrine of Discovery.

Littlechild’s conviction that every person should enjoy freedom of religion was instilled when he was a child by his traditional grandfather. His law studies at the University of Alberta reinforced freedom of religion as a human right—a satisfying affirmation as he focused on international law. It was the Elders of Maskwacis who started Littlechild on his human rights career.

“They told him to go to the UN and present First Nations grievances,” recalls Chief Randy Ermineskin, one of the four Maskwacis chiefs whose nations all helped finance Littlechild’s mission. “Dr. Littlechild was instrumental in drafting the United Nations Declaration on the

Read the July-August 2024 Liberty feature (p. 26-31) that provides context for the human rights and religious liberty work done by Dr. Wilton Littlechild and the Maskwacis community.

To receive a hard copy of the feature, contact the Alberta Conference office: (587) 815-8776. Scan QR code to read the Liberty article.

*“Bear Hills” in Cree.

Dr. Littlechild was accompanied on many of his missions and work at the UN by Chief Craig Makinaw, former Chief of Ermineskin Cree Nation, Treaty 6 Grand Chief and the AFN Regional Chief for Alberta.

Rights of Indigenous Peoples along with other Indigenous Peoples from around the world.”

Littlechild’s ability as an advocate and consensus builder was recognized immediately at the UN and by Indigenous leaders worldwide. The next year, 1978, Littlechild chaired the second UN World Conference on Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous Elders told Littlechild they wanted to open the session with prayer. “We don’t pray at the UN,” organizers told Littlechild; in response, he explained the significance of an invocation.

Chief Randy Ermineskin, who spoke at Alberta Camp Meeting, was prominent along with Dr. Wilton Littlechild at the pope’s historic 2022 apology that was broadcast from Maskwacis.

“Dr.Littlechild wasinstrumental indraftingthe UnitedNations Declarationon theRightsof IndigenousPeoples alongwithother IndigenousPeoples fromaround theworld.”

“Now every meeting of the UN opens with a prayer,” says Littlechild. “So the spiritual bundle of rights to the Human Family—the United Nations— was brought in by Elders.” It would be almost 30 years before the UN would adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a whole, but the right to practice religious beliefs as explained by Littlechild was immediately adopted by the UN in practice.

The wording of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples evolved slowly, with Littlechild playing a key role. The Organization of American States (OAS), comprised of Indigenous leaders across the Americas, passed the “Denver Text” at the 2006 OAS session chaired by Littlechild. This formed the basis for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adopted by the UN in 2007.

In 2009, Littlechild, a survivor of the largest residential school in western Canada— the Ermineskin Residential School in Maskwacis— accepted a leading role in Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. For six years, he listened to 7,000 residential school survivors whose pain was rooted in the intertwining of political-religious interests and disregard for a fundamental human right.

Littlechild concludes: “Having a spiritual base, along with the cultural, physical, and mental elements are very important.”

Chief Ermineskin photo by Trevor Boller; other contributed

Selected passages from Exodus Chapters 2-5 and 7-20

REGIONAL

LEVEL EVENT

March 8, 2025

(Northern, Central and Southern Regions)

Doors Open at 2:00 PM

Event Starts at 2:30 PM

CONFERENCE

LEVEL EVENT

May 10, 2025

(Burman University Gym)

Doors Open at 2:00 PM

Event Starts at 2:30 PM

Registration closes February 9, 2025

SCAN ME

The 2025 Offering Calendar (not available at time of printing the AAN) and Sunset Calendars are available online at qr.albertaadventist.ca/downloads

9:479:599:419:3411:29 9:429:549:369:2911:17 9:359:469:309:2311:02 9:269:379:229:1410:44 9:159:259:129:0410:24 9:029:139:008:5210:03

8:498:598:478:409:41 8:348:448:348:269:18 8:198:288:208:128:55 8:038:128:057:578:32

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SUNSET CALENDAR 2025

4:314:344:444:343:21 4:404:444:524:423:36 4:514:555:034:523:54 5:035:075:145:044:14 5:155:205:255:154:35 5:285:335:375:284:56 5:415:465:495:405:17

5:546:006:015:525:38 6:066:136:136:035:58

6:196:256:246:156:18

7:317:387:357:267:37 7:437:507:467:377:56

7:558:037:577:498:15 8:068:158:088:008:35 8:188:278:198:118:54 8:308:398:308:229:14 8:428:518:408:329:33 8:539:038:518:439:54

9:059:159:018:5410:14

9:159:269:119:0410:33 9:259:379:209:1310:52 9:349:469:289:2111:10 9:419:539:359:2811:24 9:469:589:409:3311:34 9:4910:019:429:3511:38 9:4910:019:439:3611:37 * Special Materials Provided + Special Project Development 8:54 The 2025 Offering Calendar (not available at time of printing the AAN) and Sunset Calendars are available online at qr.albertaadventist.ca/downloads

SUNSET CALENDAR 2025

Bags of Love

Since its beginnings in 2009, Bags of Love has been a ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church that seeks to serve “where needed most.” Though the core purpose is, and has always been, to meet the immediate needs of displaced children, Bags of Love has grown to encompass this and so much more.

Every year, over 800 bags are delivered into the hands of children who have been removed from their homes due to safety and wellbeing concerns. During this tumultuous time, a Bag of Love can serve as a grounding point, a small bright spot in a very dark time. As each child opens their own drawstring bag, inside they will find a beautiful homemade quilt, a teddy bear, books, toys, and personal items. These are theirs to keep, their very own belongings.

The success of this ministry is largely due to the partnership between Bags of Love and local Child and Family Services (CFS) offices, as well as immense community support, both within and outside Seventhday Adventist churches. This is where, in the last several years, Bags of Love has opened new doors of connection. This ministry is reaching not only

Ministry Evolving to Meet Community Needs

children, but others who have no other means of hearing how God is at work, in their very own community.

Many of the people volunteering with Bags of Love are not Seventh-day Adventist. They are people responding to a calling on their heart to serve others, not even aware it is the Holy Spirit guiding them. Bags of Love provides a non-invasive way to connect community members with our church, through a shared desire to alleviate the suffering in this world.

Recently, Bags of Love has partnered with the newly structured Eastern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society. With just one conversation with one contact who heard about this ministry, Bags of Love is now serving 24 of these offices, in addition to the 33 CFS offices already on board.

As inspiring as this growth is, God has even bigger plans, as He always does. One of the most exciting developments has been the connections made with several First Nations bands, including Siksika, Sunchild, Little Red River Cree and Montana Cree First Nations. Building these relationships has been

hugely rewarding on both sides, and we look forward to creating even stronger bonds as these relationships grow. Bags of Love was honoured to receive two hand painted eagle feathers as a gift, a thank you to this ministry and those who donate and volunteer their time.

As Bags of Love begins its 15th year in operation, there is both joy and anticipation to see how God will continue to bless and sustain the needs of this growing ministry. A ministry that not only is a blessing to the children it seeks to serve, but also every single person involved. This includes those who donate their toys, books, and other items, those who provide the necessary funds to operate, those who volunteer their time, skills, and talents to make the quilts and bags, and finally those who are the first responders to the children themselves.

If you want to know more, become involved or support Bags of Love, please visit bagsoflove-eca.ca, or find them on their very active Facebook page Bags of Love East-Central Alberta.

Leslee Desjardins leslee.jean@gmail.com

List of needs:

teen colouring books kids colouring books crayons journals

travel size deodorant for boys and girls

water bottles

baby bottles

sippy cups

travel size kleenex

travel size tooth paste tooth brushes

A Busy Year for the Association of African Adventists in Canada

The Association of African Adventists in Canada (AAAC) is a group of Adventists of African origin whose mission is to prepare its members for the soon coming of Jesus Christ and to spread the everlasting gospel to all nations.

From June 28-30, 2024, the AAAC Women’s Ministry department held their yearly retreat at the Canalta Hotel in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta with guest speakers Pastor Liz Pule from College Heights Church and Nicole ParadisSydenham, Volunteer Women’s Ministries Coordinator for the Alberta Conference. The ladies were blessed by the presentations and the chance to spend time together.

On August 24, 2024, the association held its annual camp meeting at Burman University with guest speaker Pastor Lloyd Wilson from the Ontario Conference. The theme for the weekend was, “Didn’t Our Hearts Burn Within Us?” Pastor Wilson reflected on Luke 24:32 which recounts the story of Jesus walking with his discouraged disciples on the road to Emmaus. Attendees were reminded about God’s ever abiding presence in the lives of His people even during

uncertain times. Pastor Wilson encouraged attendees to forge a closer walk with God and challenged attendees to recommit their lives fully to Him. At the end of his message, several individuals came forward in response to Pastor Wilson’s call for consecration.

The day concluded with a concert from musical ensemble Euphony who blessed the attendees with their soulful African harmonies.

We thank God for His leading in our Association throughout 2024 and look forward to hosting more activities in the coming year

To connect with AAAC, you can email africanadventistscanada@gmail.com

Submitted by Chifuka Chundu, AAAC Chair

Pastor Jeff Potts, President of the Alberta Conference, greets AAAC attendees.

Pastor Lloyd Wilson preaching on “The Road to Emmaus.”

BUILDING FAITH: HELP ALBERTA CHURCHES THRIVE

The Alberta Conference is excited to announce that it will allocate up to $250,000 (as funds are available) to help Alberta churches secure their own buildings, enriching spiritual growth and strengthening worship.

By giving to the Alberta Advance offering on December 28, 2024, you are contributing towards securing a building for a church family to call their own.

For more information, please contact Keith Richter,

Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer

krichter@albertaadventist.ca

ANNIVERSARY

Leduc Church Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Building

October 5th was a very special Sabbath for the Leduc Seventh-day Adventist Church. With a heart of thanksgiving to our Lord, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the church building, and the completion of major exterior renovations. While the Leduc church traces its roots back to 1898 when the local church was first organized,

in 1974 construction began on our current building. We are so thankful to celebrate not only an anniversary but also a new roof, new stucco, a new electronic sign and many other upgrades as part of the renovations. During the service we had an opportunity to thank the contractors and companies that were a part of our renovation and were

blessed with a message from Pastor Jeff Potts encouraging us to share Jesus authentically in the way that we have been gifted to do so. An amazing lunch followed as we carried the joy and thanksgiving of the service forward in fellowship. — Submitted by Ryan Reeves, Pastor, Leduc and Drayton Valley Seventh-day Adventist Churches

Leduc Seventh-day Adventist Church renovated building and new sign.

Leduc Seventh-day Adventist Church choir.

Leduc Seventh-day Adventist Church congregation.

Beiseker Level-Land Church Celebrates Baptisms in September

On September 7, 2024, under Alberta’s clear skies, Len and Doreen were baptised by Pastor Rod Davis. The warmth of the 30-degree day made any worries about a chilly dip vanish as friends and family gathered to witness a new chapter of faith.

Members of the Beiseker Level-Land Seventhday Adventist Church set out from the church hall, navigating the rural roads, briefly lost but quickly finding their way thanks to Pastor Rod Davis. A dust cloud trailed behind as they reached the welcoming farm of Rod and Pat Grabo. With care, they traversed the rugged pasture to a peaceful spot by the water.

For Len and Doreen, this baptism marked a return to their roots (Len growing up in Olds and Doreen from Beiseker). Raised in a large farming family, Doreen reflected on the challenging journey from growing up as the youngest in a big family to finding new purpose through faith. The journey was not without its trials, but this day brought them full circle—back to Alberta, with renewed strength in faith and commitment. Doreen stated, “It has been a healing journey getting back to my roots, now older and wiser.”

The couple’s path to this day included years of faith exploration, beginning with watching a series on prophecy that clearly explained biblical truths, to studying with a pastor in BC for six months that deepening their understanding of the Sabbath and other scriptural teachings.

In the presence of several family members and Beiseker Level-Land Church members, Len and Doreen stepped into the water together. Pastor Rod Davis shared some words of encouragement, emphasizing that heaven rejoiced with them on this day. Written by by Doreen Zyderveld-Hagel. Submitted by Rod Davis, Pastor, Airdrie/ Beiseker Seventh-day Adventist Churches.

Scan QR code or go to qr.albertaadventist.ca/devotionals2025

These intro prices are the best you’ll see, and they won’t last long.

Spanish and French titles available, too!

Doreen Zyderveld-Hagel and Len Zyderveld (centre) with Pastor Rod Davis (right) and Rod Grabo in blue shirt (left)

Chestermere church congregation on October 26, 2024.

Chestermere Seventh- day Adventist Church Organizational Meeting

It was a historic and memorable day for the members and attendees of the Chestermere Seventh-day Adventist company as they were organized as a full-fledged church on October 26, 2024. This church plant started six years ago when approximately ten members of the Calgary Fil-Can Church, under the leadership of Pastor Dave Sulite, a lay leader in the Filipino Adventist work in Calgary, albeit an ordained pastor from the Philippines, felt a strong desire to start a new mission group in the then unentered Chestermere area at the eastern border of the city of Calgary. Armed with faith that this desire is from the Lord, they set out to get the mother’s church

support to proceed with this plan to start a mission group in the city of Chestermere.

The Calgary Fil-Can Church extended their support to this church planting initiative and by God’s providence, the core group was led to the location of the Chestermere Christian Fellowship which became home to their weekly Sabbath services up until today.

This mission group which started with ten members has now grown to around 65 charter members, with an additional 20 other regular attendees whose membership is being processed for transfer by letter or Profession of

Faith. Over the last two years, there have been at least 20 baptisms which is a direct result of the strong friendship evangelistic commitment of this congregation and through their active participation in major city evangelistic thrusts; in 2023 the VOP led Revelation Speaks Peace series and this year 2024, the Footprints of Hope campaign.

At a duly called business meeting on October 12, the congregation made an action to drop “Fil-Can” as part of their name and they are now known officially as the Chestermere Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The organizational service was presided by Conference

President elder Jeff Potts and Ministerial and Evangelism Director elder Tyler Rosengren.

The mother church, Calgary Fil-Can closed their church on that Sabbath and attended the service at Chestermere. Their elder, sis. Mila Cabrera was among the three who extended their greetings and felicitations to the newly organized church. The other two greeters were Pastor Reynold Ferary on behalf of the Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Departments of the Conference and Pr. Reuel Manlongat, elder of the Gladys church and President of the lay-led Filipino Adventist Churches of Alberta.

The Chestermere Seventh-day Adventist Church gives glory and praise to God for His abundant grace that has led them to make more disciples for His kingdom and they are committed to continue to “live and love like Jesus” so that by His grace, they can prepare more people for His soon return! —Pastor Jesse Anunciacion, Calgary Fil-Can/ Chestermere Adventist Churches

Parkland Church Sets New Vision for the Future

Parkland Church, in Spruce Grove, was planted in 2003 as a daughter of the Onoway Church, about a half-hour to the northwest.

A number of pastors have served at Parkland, starting with Kevin Chung, Bob Condron, Melbourne Turgott, Ian Bramble, and, most recently, Jinwook Lee.

Parkland’s attendance has historically been variable, usually ranging between 20 to 50 and sometimes higher.

After Pastor Bramble moved on in 2023, Pastor Volodymyr Melys served as an interim pastor until he was assigned to the Fort Saskatchewan, Smoky Lake, and Boyle Churches.

The Alberta Conference asked Pastor Lee, from the Parkdale and Gladys churches, to shepherd Parkland. He arrived in February 2024 and set about organizing and providing direction to the church. He made a point of getting to know every member and family; conducted a survey of each person’s strengths, talents, and areas of interest; and held a series of

business and board meetings to give guidance for the future.

Parkland recently elected a new board, and, in September 2024, the board officially aligned the church’s vision with that of the Alberta Conference Strategic Plan for 2023-2028, i.e., To Live and Love like Jesus, with the priorities of going deeper with Jesus, going wider with discipleship and outreach, and going younger with a focus on children, youth, and young adults.

Parkland has been blessed in recent months with many visitors, some of whom have transferred, or will soon be transferring, their memberships to Parkland. The church is optimistic that the near future will not be just another rebuilding period, but finally bolstered and encouraged by renewed energy, devotion to God, and commitment to His work the beginning of sustained growth and increasing influence in Spruce Grove and the surrounding area.

Submitted by Rick Bowden, Parkland Church Clerk

Chestermere church.

Baptisms at Gladys Church

Gladys Seventh-day Adventist Church was joyful when five individuals were added to the church through baptism. Doc Rovick Jean Alojipan and sister Jocelyn Angeles were baptized on August 24 during the 2024 Filipino Canadian Camp Meeting at Foothills Camp. Brother

Genesis Cape, Brother Michael and Sister Marietta Beltran were baptized on September 28, 2024, in the church backyard. Pastor Sam Cadiz had the privilege of baptizing them.

Praise the Lord for the mighty work and the power of the

—Submitted by Sally del Socorro, Treasurer & Communication

Holy Spirit. We are thankful for Pastor Reuel, Elder Nimrod, and the team for giving those Bible studies. The church rejoices to celebrate with each of these persons who have chosen to accept Jesus as their Lord and be a part of Gladys Church family!

Doc Rovick Alojipan baptism during the 2024 FilCan Camp Meeting.

Jocelyn Angeles baptism at Foothills Camp on August 24, 2024.

Marietta Beltran baptism in the church backyard.

Michael Beltran baptized by Pastor Sam on Sept. 28, 2024

Genesis Cape baptized by Pastor Sam.

Visioning Weekend for both Gladys and Calgary Metro Churches

On September 6-8, 2024, both Gladys and Calgary Metro Seventh-day Adventist Churches had the privilege of attending the NCD workshop held at Gladys Church. Pastor Charles Aguillar, president of the Manitoba-Saskatchewan Conference and his team were so kind to come and help us with our three-year strategic planning. The workshop was attended by the leaders of both churches as well as some church members.

On Friday night, both groups reflected on the question, “What impact will your church have on the lives of those you are reaching?”

The pastor quoted Nehemiah 6:15, “So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days.” This verse was a reminder that, in spite of all the trials and hardships the Israelites faced as they rebuilt the

wall, God showed himself faithful in the end.

Pastor Charles spoke during the worship hour and left this thought-provoking question: “How do you design your service that the mission is accomplished, the community is engaged, and the discipleship is happening?”

On Sabbath afternoon, both Gladys and Calgary Metro found it necessary to formulate or revisit the vision and mission of their churches. After hours of brainstorming and lengthy discussions, Calgary Metro decided to focus on young people leading the church in both outreach and inreach, while Gladys Church decided to focus on ministry efforts in Foothills County. It was indeed a very productive weekend for both churches! Submitted by Sally del Socorro, Treasurer & Communication

Celebrating Baby Christian’s Dedication at Edmonton Central Church

On August 3, 2024, Pastor Beyene Atara officially welcomed Christian in an official dedication ceremony at Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church. Christian Baye is the son of Tslyon Barasa and Tadele Baye Tassa, and a grandson of Pastor Beyene. He was born on July 26, 2023. Many family members and friends attended the dedication ceremony. The Edmonton Church family wishes God’s guidance and protection for Christian and his family throughout their parental journey. —Submitted by Ina Martin, Edmonton Central Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Elder Nimrod, Pastor Charles and his team during the NCD workshop.

Gladys leaders during the NCD workshop.

Visioning Weekend atendees.

Sylvan Lake Church Turns Trash into Treasure

Running a successful Pathfinder club is a complex endeavour that requires the guiding hand of the Holy Spirit, dedicated leadership, willing young people, knowledgeable teachers, a proper facility, a supportive sponsor church, and solid financial supports. The Sylvan Lake Lighthouse Pathfinder Club has long benefited from the above blessings. But three years ago, two significant extra expenses loomed large on our club’s horizon. Our tents and camping equipment needed a serious upgrade and the 2024 Gilette, Wyoming International Pathfinder Camporee was fast approaching. The logistics and expense involved in making this once in a lifetime experience available to as many pathfinders as possible was daunting, to say the least. But this is where, we believe, the guiding hand of the Holy Spirit was revealed.

At this time, three and a half years ago, the writer of this article (and grandfather of a new pathfinder) had a completely random, — no, providential — conversation with an Alberta Parks employee. Somehow the conversation landed on the subject of fundraising and the upcoming needs of our local pathfinders. This very friendly public servant then revealed to me that all recyclables collected in Alberta Provincial parks were distributed — free of charge — to qualifying Alberta non- profit organizations and that our group sounded like a perfect fit. Wow!

$14,117.90

TOTAL EARNED IN THREE YEARS

The green light to explore this fund raising option was given by the local pathfinder leadership and after several months of back and forth with Alberta forests and parks we were awarded the contract to collect recyclables from Red Lodge Provincial Park for the 2022 season. This partnership went very

well and the contract for Jarvis Bay Provincial Park was added for 2023. As of this writing, we have just concluded our pickups for the 2024 season and in total have earned $14,117.90 in three years. Our pathfinders also had another contract to vendor food and beverages on Sunday afternoon at camp meeting and over the past three years raised an additional $4,469.16. Thank you to all readers who supported us by eating our “tacos in a bag” at camp meeting!

Twenty-two of our pathfinders and staff attended the Gillette Pathfinder Camporee this past August and had an amazing experience. Thanks to God’s leading in this and so many other ways. P.S. By the way, did you know Alberta leads all other provinces in Canada by recycling 83% of all bottles and cans sold each year? Go Alberta! — Submitted by Dale Jacobson, Pathfinder Parent

Dale Jacobson standing beside large stack of bottles for recycling.

December 18, 2024 • 6:30 PM

Bonnyville Church Grows Vibrant Vegetable Garden

Since September 2021, Bonnyville Seventhday Adventist Church relocated to their current address along 61009 Range Road 454. The church is located on a 7.3 acre plot of land. A portion of this land is used by members for planting and growing vegetables. Anyone who is interested is given a portion of the cultivated land to grow as much vegetables as they like. Among the many vegetables grown during the

summer of 2024 included onions, potatoes, eggplant, beetroot, tomatoes, corn, carrots, cumcumber and even beautiful sun flowers.

Pictured below is a glimpse of what the garden looked like, as well as a few happy church members who harvested the produce of their hard work during the summer.

Submitted by Grant Lottering, Pastor, Bonnyville/Lloydminster Churches

Renew Your Strength

@ RED DEER SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

18 JAN 2025

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.

—Isaiah 40:31

Whether you’re a Master Guide or simply seeking spiritual renewal, this event promises uplifting worship, powerful messages, and a chance to reconnect with God and each other as we start the new year!

Bring your favourite dish and enjoy a potluck lunch with us as we share good food and fellowship. Don’t miss this opportunity to refresh your spirit and reconnect with your church family—mark your calendar and join us!

SCAN ME

For

your beautiful photo submissions! THANK YOU

These photo submissions capture the beauty of God’s creation and places rich with memories, inspiration, and peace. While we couldn’t display every entry due to space, we’re grateful to everyone who has shared their photos and warmly encourage future contributions.—The Editorial team

Photo by Rod Schafer taken at Centennial Centre, Ponoka, Alberta, June 24.

Photo by Cheralee Filion taken in Lacombe, Alberta.

Northern Lights by Steve Gabris taken at CHCS, Lacombe, Alberta, October 7, 2024.

Brown bear by David Benjamin taken at Peace River, Alberta.

Silent memories of the past are all that remains by Dennis Braun, Wetaskiwin, Alberta, October 2024.

Whoo goes there? by Cheralee Filion, taken on the trails, Lacombe, Alberta.

An Attitude of Gratitude at Christmas

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Philippians 4:11

As Christmas approaches, we often find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle—shopping for gifts, decorating, and planning festive gatherings. But in the midst of all the excitement, it’s important to pause and reflect on the true reason for the season: the birth of Jesus, the greatest gift ever given. There’s a story that beautifully illustrates the power of perspective. It’s about a young boy who would gaze across the valley every morning and see a house on a distant mountainside with windows that seemed to shine like gold in the sunlight. One

day, filled with curiosity, he decided to find this magical house. He searched all day but couldn’t find it. As evening came, he asked a girl if she knew where the house with the golden windows was. She smiled and pointed across the valley—to his own home, now glowing in the radiance of the setting sun. The treasure he had been searching for was right in front of him all along. This story reminds us of Christmas in a profound way. So often, we search for joy and fulfillment in external things—presents, and decorations. But the true beauty of Christmas, the real treasure, is found in Jesus.

Just like the boy in the story, we sometimes miss the blessings that are right before our eyes. Christmas is a time to embrace a heart of thankfulness, reflecting on all that God has done for us through Jesus. It’s an attitude that Paul modeled so well. Despite facing hardship after hardship— being beaten, imprisoned, and shipwrecked—Paul didn’t focus on his suffering. Instead, he said, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation... I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:12-13).

At Christmas, we remember that Jesus is the source of our strength and our joy. No matter what challenges or uncertainties we may face, we can rest in the knowledge that His presence is with us, offering peace and hope. Consider the story of Matthew Henry, a preacher who once experienced a robbery. Afterward, instead of dwelling on what he lost, he found reasons to be thankful:

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He was grateful that he had never been robbed before.

He was thankful that the robber took only his money and not his life.

He was glad that he didn’t have much money for the robber to steal.

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that a thankful heart isn’t dependent on what we have or don’t have. It’s about recognizing the incredible gift of Jesus—God’s love made flesh, dwelling among us. His birth is the reason we can find peace in the midst of chaos, joy in the face of trials, and hope for the future. —The Editorial team 1 2 3 4

And finally, he was thankful that he wasn’t the one who felt so desperate as to rob someone else.

Interns

Wanted!

Eligibility:

• Enrolment in a teacher education program at an accredited Adventist university

• Recommendation from the school of education faculty

• Member of an Adventist church in Canada

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident in Canada

Speak to your Conference Education Superintendent Deadline to apply is February 1, 2025

Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada

The Impact of a STEM Specialist in the Alberta Conference K-12 Schools

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education cannot be overstated. Within the Alberta Conference of Seventh-day Adventist K-12 schools, a STEM specialist can play a transformative role, impacting curriculum development, teacher training, student engagement, and academic excellence. Moreover, their presence serves as a powerful motivator for both educators and students. We are blessed this year with the expertise of Colton Greenlaw as the S.T.E.M. specialist.

Curriculum Development

A STEM specialist brings expertise in creating and enhancing curricula that are not only relevant but also aligned with Alberta educational standards. By integrating hands-on, inquiry-based learning into the curriculum, the specialist ensures that students experience STEM subjects in meaningful ways. This approach encourages curiosity and fosters a deeper understanding of complex concepts. When curricula are engaging and challenging, students are more likely to invest time and effort in their studies, leading to improved academic outcomes.

Teacher Training

Equipping teachers with the right tools and techniques is crucial for effective STEM education. A STEM specialist can provide professional development workshops, coaching, and resources tailored to the needs of educators in the schools.

Through this training, teachers gain confidence in delivering STEM content and are motivated to explore innovative teaching methods. As they witness their students' excitement and progress, educators often feel reinvigorated in their teaching practices, leading to a more dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Student Engagement

One of the most significant impacts of a STEM specialist is the enhancement of student engagement. By introducing interactive projects, competitions, and real-world problemsolving scenarios, the specialist captivates students' interest in STEM fields. Such initiatives not only make learning fun but also help students see the relevance of their studies

Colton Greenlaw STEM Learning Specialist Alberta Conference

to everyday life and future careers. When students feel connected to the material, their motivation to learn increases, fostering a culture of curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM subjects.

Academic Excellence

The collective efforts of a STEM specialist engaged teachers, and motivated students culminate in improved academic performance. As students become more involved in their learning, they develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problemsolving skills. These competencies are essential

for success in STEM-related fields and contribute to overall academic excellence. Additionally, positive reinforcement from teachers and peers encourages a growth mindset, where students view challenges as opportunities for learning rather than obstacles.

Motivation for Teachers and Students

The ripple effect of a STEM specialist’s influence is profound. Teachers who receive ongoing support and training feel more empowered and enthusiastic about their teaching. They are

motivated to innovate, experiment, and share successful practices with colleagues, creating a collaborative environment that benefits the entire school community.

For students, the presence of a STEM specialist can ignite a passion for discovery. When they engage in meaningful, hands-on activities, they are more likely to develop a lifelong love for learning. Furthermore, as they see the direct impact of their work and creativity, their confidence grows, motivating them to pursue advanced studies and careers in STEM fields.

The integration of a STEM specialist within the Alberta Conference K-12 schools can lead to transformative changes that positively impact curriculum development, teacher training, student engagement, and academic excellence. By fostering a supportive environment where educators and students alike are motivated to excel, the specialist helps cultivate the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders. In an era where STEM skills are increasingly vital, this investment in education can prepare students to thrive in a competitive and rapidly changing world.

Submitted by Brent van Rensburg, Associate Director for Education, Alberta Conference

ALBERTA CONFERENCE PRESENTS: CHURCH MINISTRIES CONVENTION

Empowered for Mission

April 11-13, 2025 Edmonton, Alberta

For more information contact pastor Reynold Ferary, Sabbath School/ Personal Ministries Director rferary@albertaadventist.ca

Chinook Winds Adventist Academy’s Greenhouse Project

With another winter fast approaching, the grade five class through the direction and effort of their teacher Mr. David Barritt at Chinook Winds Adventist Academy have continued to raise funds through their snack shop to construct the greenhouse pictured below. In an effort to be a more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) based institution of learning, and to answer the call to not only be a place of evangelism, but also of agriculture, this greenhouse was constructed with the children in mind. The intention is that it will be a space where students can get hands on experience with botany in cultivating both medicinal plant species and those that offer an edible harvest.

Over the past couple of weeks, adult volunteers, teachers, and grade five students have come together to assemble a frame that will house future projects. Chinook Winds Adventist Academy wants to recognize the time and money that was donated to this project by Pablo Palacios who is the owner of Southside Customs; a company which provides quality automotive maintenance and repairs, including tire services, wheels, and accessories located at 11450 29 Street SE, Calgary Unit 11. He and his helper (Vadim Tepfer) aided in the design and even fabricated an entire wall to support the lean-to-greenhouse, which is located at the far south end of the

stage.

elementary wing. Along with Mr. Palacios, Mr. Daniel Trconic was also instrumental to this project, bringing a lot of wisdom and manpower to help it come to fruition.

Grade five will be setting up this project as a multi-group experiment with the thermal capabilities being tested for this first winter by selecting three different material options for grow beds, to see which retains heat the best. One group will be working with wood

Greenhouse in building

chips as an insulator, one will be working with water barrels as thermal batteries, and another will be using straw bales or synthetic insulator panels. Temperature readings will be taken over the course of the winter season to see which material is best suited for future agricultural undertakings. We are excited to test these possibilities and make the greenhouse setup itself a scientific method in action! The principal, Dr. Aldo Buccoleri has high hopes to create a bridge campaign with MRU to grow medicinal florals and Mr. Barritt (the grade five teacher), hopes to have enough thermal insulation to possibly grow oranges (which usually produce in November).

We also wish to thank countless other anonymous donors for their generous donations to help fund such an undertaking. Without the support from parents and volunteers, we would still be at square one. The final dimensions of the space will be 30 feet long by 10 feet wide, with a peak ceiling height of 12 feet and will be utilized by all invested grades at CWAA for research and cultivation. If you wish to support this campaign, or future endeavours related to optimizing our Science programming, you can make financial donations at the office, specifying that it is for the Eco-Science Fund. A tax-deductible receipt can also be provided upon request. Submitted by Ashia Lennon, School Pastor, Chinook Winds Adventist Academy

Mamawi Atosketan One of Alberta’s

BIG THREE SCHOOLS 252

Students at MANS

2024 Junior Pow Wow Princess Daenerys Buffalo (Samson Cree Nation) is part of MANS’ record-setting student body. With a record 252 students K-12, MANS is three students less than Chinook Winds Academy and two students less than PACES, the Conference’s online school. PACES include students from across Canada.

MAMAWI ATOSKETAN NATIVE SCHOOL

Photos by Trevor Boller

Detail of Princess Daenerys’ beaded crown featuring the Union Jack flag motif.

ALBERTA CONFERENCE

EDUCATOR’S CONVENTION

ALBERTA CONFERENCE

EDUCATOR’S CONVENTION

Eight Newly-baptized Members

Welcomed into Maskwacis

Congregation

with Blanket Ceremony

The Blanket Ceremony is an important part of Cree tradition. It honours the recipient of the blanket and carries important meaning, including acceptance and appreciation. Recently-baptized members were welcomed into fellowship with a Blanket Ceremony on July, 27 2024.

Two MANS Students Welcomed into Maskwacis Church Family

Two Mamawi Atosketan students were part of the Inspire Mamawi Leadership— Summer program when they first set foot on Foothills Camp this July. Because of their experience at camp meeting and the support of Pastor Tsholo, their teacher Jonathan Belinsky and his wife Annelise, along with Trevor and Tracey Boller, pastors they met and others, the friends made the decision to be baptized.

Tashay Headman was baptized July 20 near Foothills Camp, and Faye DeMontigny-Johnson was baptized on July 27 at Mamawi Atosketan Native School where the congregation currently meets.

A High Day in Maskwacis. Recently baptised members (from left to right) Aiyana Potts, Bella Potts, Kamuel Sebetlela, Jonthan Belinsky and two MANS high school students who were part of the Inspire Mamawi Summer team, Faye DeMontignyJohnson, and Tashay Headman.

Inspire Mamawi Leadership Expands Outdoor Classroom,

Inspires Joy

Janice Clark, MANS’ Native Cultural Studies teacher, shares a moment of Fall Magic with her students in the outdoor classroom envision by the first Inspire Mamawi group of students.

The 2024 Inspire Mamawi LeadershipSummer team —MANS’ first summer team— helped expand and give shape to the original vision by constucting the gazebo.

It was the last of the summer team’s projects.

— By Lynn McDowell, Alberta Conference Director of Planned Giving/Philanthropy

Blanket photo by Tsholo Sebetlela; other photos by Trevor Boller

Tashay (left) and Faye (right).

IN MEMORY

Priscilla Kwamboka Tirimba

Priscilla Kwamboka Tirimba was born on February 28, 1950 in Kyagiki Village, Kenya to the late Hezron Ototo Okindo and Bathseba Kemunto O’Kerubo Ototo. She attended Hyagiki Primary school and later Kererl girl’s high school for her secondary education and then proceeded to teachers training college.

Priscilla was brought up in a Seventh-day Adventist home, baptised, and remained a faithful member throughout her life. She was a member of the Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church. A few of the departments she served in included youth mentoring programs, church choir, as well as women and children’s ministries. Priscilla was an amazing children’s storyteller, one who could captivate and engage the attention of her audience.

Priscilla is survived by her husband Elizaphan, son Hezekiah and Kevin. Daughter Wilkister, and eleven grandchildren. She was a devoted mother to her children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Priscilla laid down to sleep and peacefully passed away on May 26, 2024. It’s our hope to unite with Priscilla in the earth made new when Jesus comes again. — Submitted by Ina Martin, Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church

February 28, 1950 ~ May 26, 2024 ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mary Synowec of Bonnyville turns 100

Mary Synowec of Bonnyville celebrated her 100th birthday on September 21, 2024. She immigrated to Canada from Ukraine as a young girl. Her family were among the first families who came to live in north eastern Canada in the area of Bonnyville. Back then, all of northern Alberta was uninhabited and covered with forests. The first families to settle there cleared away the forests and formed communities.

She married Louis Synowec, who was the son of Matthew Synowec, one of the founding pioneers of the Bonnyville Seventhday Adventist Church.

The extended families of Louis Synowec and his older brother Bill Synowec, continue to be stalwarts of Seventhday Adventism in the community of Bonnyville.

Mary Synowec of Bonnyville Celebrates 100 years.

Both aunty Mary’s daughters, Elizabeth and Jane, still attend the Bonnyville Seventhday Adventist Church.

Her birthday celebrations started off on the Friday when she received a visit from the Honorable Mayor of the Town of Bonnyville, Mayor Elisa Brosseau, who wished her a happy birthday and presented her with a token of

acknowledgement for celebrating a century of life. On the day of her birthday, she continued to receive visits from several of her family, friends and neighbours. The day after her birthday, the members from the Bonnyville Church gathered at her home to serenade her with words of appreciation, songs, gifts, flowers and delicious treats. She was overjoyed at the out pouring of love which she received. We thank God for His love and faithfulness to aunty Mary and are happy to have her as a living example to many of what faithfulness to God results in. At 100 years old, Aunty Mary still enjoys such good health that she can live alone and take care of herself. Aunty Mary has two daughters, four grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren. — Submitted by Pastor Grant Lottering

Alberta Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

CLUB MINISTRIES

2025 ANNUAL DATE SCHEDULES

MASTER GUIDES

EVENT NAME

Master Guide Sabbath

Master Guide Camp

Master Guide Ministry Parade

NAD Master Guide Camporee (Summit Bechtel Reserve - West Virginia)

Master Guide Outdoor Expedition (Mt. Assiniboine)

January 18, 2025

July 11 - 13, 2025

July 19, 2025

August 6 - 10, 2025

Beginning of Sept - Exact date TBD

ADVENTURERS

Adventurer Bible Game, Regional Level

Adventurer Bible Game, Conference Level

World Adventurer Day

Adventurers Family Camp

Adventurers Ministry Parade

PATHFINDERS

March 8, 2025

May 10, 2025

May 17, 2025

June 6 - 8, 2025

July 19, 2025

Pathfinder Bible Experience, Area Level February 1, 2025

Pathfinder Winter Camp February 28 - March 2, 2025

Pathfinder Bible Experience, Conference March 1, 2025

Pathfinder Bible Experience, SDACC March 22, 2025

Pathfinder Bible Experience, NAD April 25 - 26, 2025

Pathfinders Summer Camporee June 26 - 30, 2025

Regional Canada Day Parade TBD

Pathfinders Ministry Parade July 19, 2025

Pathfinders Tag Day July 20, 2025

For more information about the schedule and upcoming events contact Janeth L Vasquez at jvasquez@albertaadventist.ca or visit clubministries.albertaadventist.ca

ATTENTION CHILDREN SABBATH SCHOOL LEADERS!

ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEW SABBATH SCHOOL CURRICULUM?

Our worldwide Seventh- day Adventist church has been developing a new Sabbath School curriculum called ALIVE IN JESUS.

This is a beautiful Biblebased curriculum that will enable you to lead your children and their families to Jesus. This curriculum will start to phase in from January 2025 and will replace

the GraceLink curriculum. Phase-in timing:

Babies and Beginner Q1 2025

Kindergarten and Primary Q1 2026

Junior and Teen, Q1 2027

Youth Q1 2028

To stay updated, receive training, and prepare for the launch, please fill out the contact form below.

LET’S GET READY TO BRING THIS FRESH CHRISTCENTERED PROGRAM TO LIFE!

ITidings of Comfort & Joy

Good News about the Federal Budget and Giving Shares

BY LYNN McDOWELL

t’s not often that good news comes in the form of the Federal Budget.

Not surprisingly, there was a lot of hand-wringing about the change in the taxing of capital gains, which went from being 50% taxable to being 66 2/3% taxable. Charities across Canada were alarmed.

Why would charities be concerned? Because a charitable tax receipt helps many people afford to give or to give more. Donating shares in kind (giving the shares in a company rather than cashing them in and giving the proceeds) is one of the most tax-efficient ways to give to charity. It’s a rare Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) nod to the big contribution charities like the Alberta Conference make in improving the lives of Canadians.

The good news is that the new change in capital gains taxation DOESN’T change that big tax benefit for donating share/ marketable securities rather than selling them personally. It works like this:

Shares in Company:

Acquired in 1998 @ $5 per share

Current value @ $25 per share

Capital Gain: $20 per share

CRA now taxes 66 2/3% of gain, so about 2/3 of the share gain is taxable, about 1/3 is not taxed.

A 38% personal tax rate would mean that when an individual cashes in $10,000 of these shares, the total paid to CRA would be about $1,600.

The good news is that if

The Conference has received more than $500,000 through donations of inkind shares over the past seven years. In-kind share donations have helped fund church homes for more than one congregation.

you contact the Conference and get the information needed to donate the shares rather than cash them in and give the remaining money, you can give the CRA’s portion to the Conference for your church’s project or another ministry or an unrestricted use gift to God’s work! By donating shares in kind, you may be able to give a significantly bigger gift than if you sell the shares and donate cash. You get three benefits:

1. You pay no capital gain tax

2. A charitable tax receipt for the full present value of the shares, which you can use against future capital gains (sale of any capital property such as real estate), and

3. The Church/project receives the full present value of the shares (none goes to CRA).

Don and Leslie Price talk about why they used shares Don received from his employer to help fund the recently-opened Whitecourt church in the video “Making the Most of Your Gift.” Go to the Securities & Shares link on the Planned Giving page at albertaadventist. ca or scan the QR code.

Make CRA Act like Santa

In the above example, an individual would have $8,400 after tax if shares are personally cashed. Since a gift of shares in kind creates a $5,000 tax benefit (charitable tax receipt of $10,000), the difference between pocketing the cash or giving $10,000 through gift of shares in-kind is only $3,400. The bonus: CRA has lost $6,600 in tax revenue from the donor.

In pictures, it looks like this:

Like many good things, the in-kind process takes time—often two to four weeks between when a donor instructs their broker to transfer and when the Conference receives the shares. Upon receiving the shares, the Conference issues the charitable receipt. So this season, as you practice Goodwill toward all, you can include the CRA and the continuing opportunity to give more to God through a gift of shares “in kind.”

Lynn McDowell, JD, CSPG Director of Planned Giving | Philanthropy

Alberta Conference (403) 342-5044 Direct Line (587) 815-8785

MANS’s 2024

Enrolment is up —  at an All-time

High!

The kids in the Carpentry Dual Credit program jumped into the new Inspire Mamawi Leadership-Summer program.

With new skills and confidence that exceeded everyone’s expectations, they’re ready for a big building challenge.

Keep Kids and the Carpentry Program on Track: Two Vital Components

Help add an education assistant. Ensure the personal touch that sets MANS education apart and opens opportunities.

Help MANS carpentry students get the materials they need to build their first Tiny House on wheels. Proceeds from the sale of the home will fund the production of the next Tiny House.