Columbia Union Visitor--October 2005

Table of Contents

In Every Issue Editorial

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Newsline

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Resource Guide

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News & Features Adventists Remember the Journey to Christ

Healing Ministry

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It’s always gratifying to hear the testimonies of people who have been converted. In this feature, a department head at a Seventh-day Adventist college, a former Catholic from Ecuador, a wife and mother who led her husband and a son to Christ, and a former hippie share their journeys. Read the compelling stories about their lives before, during, and following their baptisms.

Newsletters 19 Allegheny East 21 Chesapeake 23 Columbia Union College 25 Mountain View 27 Mt. Vernon Academy 29 New Jersey 31 Ohio 33 Pennsylvania 35 Potomac 37 Takoma Academy

Bulletin Board

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Editorial Harold L. Lee Celeste Ryan ■ Editor LaVerne Henderson ■ Associate Editor for News & Features Kelly Butler Coe ■ Art Director Sandra Jones ■ Copy Editor & Bulletin Board Editor

When Were You Converted?

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ALLEGHENY WEST: James L. Lewis, President; 1339 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205. Tel. (614) 252-527 ■ www.awconf.org

Everyone has a conversion story. It doesn’t matter whether you were born into the Seventh-day Adventist Church or not. All of us can remember the exact moment we truly accepted Christ, and this message became very real and personal. Here’s my story: I was I was born in the small town of actually Wellsburg, W.Va. I’m a twin, and one of nine children born to Robert and converted Lillian Lee. After high school, I moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where my before the older sister Rosa lived, and joined the United States Air Force. After serving sermon began. in Tokyo, Japan, I returned to Cleveland and found that Rosa had become an Adventist. She invited me to an evangelism series at the nearby Glenville church, and even won a free Bible for bringing the most guests that evening. We were raised in a Christian home, so I was actually eager to learn more about the Adventist lifestyle and beliefs.

As we arrived at the meeting, the ambiance was overwhelming.

The music, singing, and powerful preaching of Pastor Walter M. Starks captured my attention. It made a deep impression on me and was a major turning point in my spiritual development. It was just what I was searching for, and I was actually converted before the sermon began.

The following Sabbath, I gave my heart to Christ and was baptized January 1959—along with 11 other family members. I was 22.

CHESAPEAKE: Neville Harcombe, President; Rob Vandeman, Visitor Correspondent; 6600 Martin Rd., Columbia, MD 21044.

Tel. (410) 995-1910

The Journey Continues

Monte Sahlin

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Publisher

PUBLISHING BOARD: Harold L. Lee (chair), Celeste Ryan (secretary), Raj Attiken, Charles Cheatham, Dowell Chow, LeRoy Finck, J. Neville Harcombe, Ray Hartwell, James L. Lewis, Edward Motschiedler, Monte Sahlin, Dave Weigley, Kingsley Whitsett MISSION STATEMENT The Visitor provides news and information, resources for effective ministry, and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help people celebrate God's transforming grace in preparation for His return.

COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS 5427 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, MD 21045 (301) 596-0800 or (888) 4-VISITOR http://www.columbiaunion.org Free to Columbia Union members. All others—$15 per year.

COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE President Harold L. Lee Edward Motschiedler Executive Secretary Treasurer Vice President/Education Hamlet Canosa Vice President/General Counsel Monte Sahlin Vice President/Creative Ministries Asst. to the President/Communication Celeste Ryan Harold Greene Information Technology Curtis Boore Plant Services Trust Services/PARL Peggy Lee Revolving Fund Carol Wright Undertreasurer CONFERENCES ALLEGHENY EAST: Charles L. Cheatham, President; Robert Booker, Visitor Correspondent; P.O. Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548.

Tel. (610) 326-4610 ■ www.myalleghenyeast.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Kingsley Whitsett, President; Brian Jones, Visitor Correspondent; 1400 Liberty St., Parkersburg, WV 26101.

Tel. (304) 422-4581 ■ www.mtviewconf.org NEW JERSEY: LeRoy Finck, President; Aura Garcia, Visitor Correspondent; 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton, NJ 08648.

Tel. (609) 392-7131 ■ www.njcsda.org OHIO: Raj Attiken, President; Bette Toscano, Visitor Correspondent; P.O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, OH 43050.

Tel. (740) 397-4665 ■ www.ohioadventist.org PENNSYLVANIA: Ray Hartwell, President; Tamyra Horst, Visitor Correspondent; 720 Museum Rd., Reading, PA 19611.

Tel. (610) 374-8331 ■ www.paconference.org POTOMAC: Dave Weigley, President; Janet Olsyne, Visitor Correspondent; 606 Greenville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401.

Tel. (540) 886-0771 ■ www.pcsda.org COLLEGES COLUMBIA UNION COLLEGE: Randal Wisbey, President; Scott Steward, Visitor Correspondent; 7600 Flower Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912. Tel. (301) 891-4000 ■ www.cuc.edu KETTERING COLLEGE OF MEDICAL ARTS: Charles Scriven, President; 3737 Southern Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429.

Tel. (937) 395-8601 ■ www.kcma.edu HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: William G. Robertson, President & CEO; Ray Tetz, Visitor Correspondent; 1801 Research Blvd., Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850. Tel. (301) 315-3030 www.adventisthealthcare.com KETTERING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: Frank Perez, President & CEO; Kenneth Chaij, Visitor Correspondent; 3965 Southern Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429. Tel. (937) 395-8167 www.kmcnetwork.org Published by the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Printed at the Review & Herald Publishing Association.

Volume 110 ■ Issue 11

My story doesn’t end with finding God’s remnant church and embracing its beliefs. And neither should yours. Conversion signals the commencement of a journey where the saved now set about helping others experience and celebrate God’s transforming grace.

My journey of service began at Oakwood College and Andrews University, where I matriculated with undergraduate and master’s degrees in ministry. After graduating, I pastored the Akron and Canton, Ohio, churches. My parents were so proud of my being a pastor that they began sharing my faith with others. In time, God blessed me with the privilege of baptizing my mother—the first black Adventist in Weirton, W.Va.—along with more of my siblings.

However, the joy of making disciples isn’t limited to pastors. We are all called to participate in the process of grace-orientation. We all have opportunities to share Christ with others. This issue of the Visitor takes a look at the conversion experiences of several individuals, led to Christ by friends, mothers, spouses, and others. As you read it, I challenge you to consider two things: First, think back to your conversion. Do you still have that passion and zeal to leave everything behind and follow Christ? And are you allowing it to shape your present and future priorities?

Second, by inviting me to church, my sister not only enjoyed her conversion experience, but also became an active participant in her new church’s mission. Have you taken the next step and become a disciple of Christ, working to bring others to Him? Think about it!

Harold L. Lee is president of the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, headquartered in Columbia, Md. OCTOBER 2005

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Newsline Columbia Union Treasurer Moves to Adventist World Radio Columbia Union Conference Treasurer Dowell Chow has accepted a call to serve as vice president for finance for Adventist World Radio. Chow, a pastor and administrator, has served the Seventh-day Adventist Church in many places around the world. For more than a dozen years he has worked in the Columbia Union territory, spending the last five as Union treasurer. According to Chow, he leaves the Union on “strong financial footing.”

“I have enjoyed my tenure here at the Union very much,” he says. “It was hard to consider breaking this great relationship with the staff and colleagues.”

Chow, who acknowledges that he has a “heart for people,” was also active in the Union’s Missions Abroad evangelism program. One highlight was taking several conference treasurers to South America to conduct a reaping series that yielded many baptisms.

“Spreading the influence of the Columbia Union in other countries has been a real blessing,” he states.

—LaVerne Henderson

Ohio Conference Appoints First Woman Treasurer The Ohio Conference Executive Committee recently voted to unanimously appoint Joanne Rude as Conference treasurer. Rude has served the Ohio Conference for over 10 years in various capacities, most recently as associate treasurer. She graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelor of Accounting degree and became a certified public accountant in 1995. “I am committed to the vision and mission of the Ohio Conference. My goal is to serve churches and assist them in advancing the gospel in their communities.”

Rude fills the vacancy recently created when Michael Wixwat accepted a call to serve as treasurer for the British Columbia Conference. “Joanne is a person of strong faith and spiritual maturity, who brings to this role a high level of competency, knowledge, and skills, along with excellent interpersonal skills,” says Conference President Raj Attiken.—LaVerne Henderson

Union President Authors New Book Columbia Union Conference President Harold Lee authored the recently released book Brad: Visionary Spiritual Leadership. “This book is not an attempt to define his times or his role in history as 4

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much as it is an effort to describe the man I came to admire, respect, and love,” says Lee. “It’s a moving story of visionary Christian servant-leadership manifested in a gifted personality, a Jesus-man.” In the 270-page book, Lee chronicles the story of Charles E. Bradford, the first president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America. Bradford served from 1979 to 1990 and produced ripples of change that continue to affect the Church in North America and beyond.

The North American Division’s history as a separate entity is told firsthand by Bradford, its first elected president. Also included are Bradford’s family history and personal story, as well as excerpts from sermons and published works over the years. Monte Sahlin, Columbia Union Vice President for Creative Ministries, assisted Lee with the book. It is available online at www.adventsource.org or by calling (800) 328-0525.—LaVerne Henderson

Annual ASI Offering Yields $2.3 Million, Benefits Local School Nearly 3,300 ASI (Adventist-laymen’s Services and Industries) members and guests gathered in Sacramento recently for the organization’s annual international convention. The theme was “Christ’s Power … Our Hands.”

More than $2.3 million was collected during the Sabbath offering. Targeted to help finance specific projects during the next year, it will be divided among 40 diverse, worldwide ministries and organizations. Among the recipients is Miracle Meadows School (MMS), located in Salem, W.Va. This Seventhday Adventist, Columbia Union boarding school will receive $35,000.

According to the school’s Web site, www.miraclemeadows.com, the institution serves boys and girls, ages 7 to 17, who are having difficulty relating in a positive way to family, school, church, or community.

MMS enrolls students who are experiencing defiance, dishonesty, school failure, trouble with the law, spiritual disinterest, poor social skills, and other behavior that is harmful to them and society. MMS operates 12 months a year and is one of the first Church institutions designed to accept such children. Recognized by the state of West Virginia as a school, Miracle Meadows is not a group home or youth facility.

Grant monies will be utilized to renovate the current facility, which is inadequate for staff and students.

The front of the building will be extended about 30 feet to allow for more classroom and office space.

ASI’s motto is “Sharing Christ in the Marketplace.”

The nearly 60-year-old organization has approximately

PHOTOGRAPHY: GERRY CHUDLEIGH

Newsline 1,000 members, consisting of Adventist business people and other individuals. Its mission is to inspire and train these professionals and private sector business owners to integrate their vocations with the gospel commission and ministry.

Convention attendees listened to testimonies and visited 295 promotional exhibits. The Member in Action segments, where personal stories are shared, is one of the most popular parts of the four-day event.

“Hearing all the diverse ways God is working through ordinary business people—well-diggers, artists, bankers, homemakers, educators, health professionals, car dealers, construction builders, media people—is truly inspirational,” says convention coordinator Sharon Robberson.

Young people also embrace the vision of integrating ministry and daily life. The ASI youth evangelism program, “Youth for Jesus,” mobilizes high school- and college-aged students during the month before the convention. This year, 40 youth went door-todoor giving Bible Virginia Meyer (far right), an ASI studies and invitvolunteer from Pennsboro, W.Va., ing people to tells a story in the Tiny Tots room evening evangelat the 2005 ASI Convention in istic meetings.

Sacramento, Calif.

The program culminated prior to the convention. There were 30 baptisms with more than 50 interests continuing to study.

“If you’re serious about your relationship with Christ and want to give life to the gospel commission, then connect with others that are living that passion, sharing Christ in their marketplace,” says ASI President Debbie Young. “Seeing the excitement people have about sharing Christ with others is my favorite part of the annual convention.” For more information about the other ASIfunded projects, or for information on membership, chapter meetings, and future conventions, visit www.asiministries.org.—Alicia J. Adams

Union Colleges See Increase in Enrollment The Columbia Union Conference’s two colleges— Columbia Union College (CUC) and Kettering College of Medical Arts (KCMA)—both saw an increase in enrollment for the 2005-06 academic year. CUC started the year with 750 students. This number includes 250 first-time enrollees. KCMA's figure is 813, versus last year's number of 734.

Union Communicators Invited to Annual Convention The Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) will hold its annual meeting October 20-23. Themed “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About,” this professional development weekend will take place at the Gladstone Park Conference Center in Gladstone, Ore. SAC is committed to networking Seventh-day Adventists in North America who work in the communication industry as writers, editors, videographers, web designers, broadcasters, and many other fields. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet other Christian communicators and participate in special interest groups that focus on print media, public relations, web design, electronic media, and journalism. “Special interest groups facilitate networking between communicators who specialize in various fields,” says Ryan Teller, SAC president and communication director for the Texas Conference. “In these groups, people share stories, compare problems, and find solutions together,” adds Teller, who has been president since 2003. For more information about SAC, or to register for the convention, please visit www.adventistcommunicator.org.

—George Johnson Jr.

Potomac Member Launches Web Site for Nurses Linda Royer, in association with a group of professional nurses, recently launched a new Web site designed to provide a link to Seventh-day Adventist nurses who are ministering to those in need in countries and cities around the world. It offers resources such as spiritual support, research findings, and opportunities to share stories.

“Not only will the site bring Adventist nurses together, it will profile what Adventist nurses believe,” said Royer, president of the 12-member Adventist Nursing Connection (ANC) board, project director, and nurse educator. Through shared sentiments, conversations, and long brainstorming sessions, Royer and board members developed this Internet community.

The primary purpose of ANC is to identify where Adventist nurses are located and provide them with online support. The second goal is to give them, and potential nursing students, a means of connecting with other professionals in the field. Information on workforce issues, career enhancements, and links to other professional nursing Web pages are provided.

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Newsline “It’s a good source for finding information and connecting nurses,” said Ronalee Netteburg, assistant professor of nursing at Columbia Union College.

The Web site offers visitors an opportunity to sign the guestbook and receive newsletters and announcements about the network. Royer hopes that frequent visitors will go one step further and become members. “We want people to do more than look around the site; we want them to interact,” she said.

To date, Adventist Nursing Connection has nearly 100 members and more than 200 people in the database. Membership is diverse, with nurses signing in from Australia, New South Wales, North America, and Africa. Board members hope that the site will also serve as an outreach ministry tool to nurses of other faiths.

ANC’s first major project was a seminar called “Disaster Response: Providing Spiritual Support to Victims and the Community.” In the future, ANC hopes to provide continuing education classes both online and face-to-face.

Assistance for the site came through a grant from the former Association of Seventh-day Adventist Nurses, donations from a leading Adventist healthcare corporation, and individual support. For more information, visit www.adventistnursingconnection.org.

—Tanisha Greenidge

Potomac Church Wins eChurch Award The Southern Asian Seventh-day Adventist Church in Silver Spring, Md., has been awarded the September eChurch of the Month Award. The site was deemed notable by award judges because “its information represented an active church with relevant and up-to-date content.” Visit the church’s Web site at www.sasdac.org.

Previous Columbia Union winners include the Emmanuel church in Brinklow, Md.; the Dupont Park church in Washington, D.C., the North Philadelphia church, the New Hope church in Burtonsville, Md., and the Miracle Temple church in Baltimore. For more information, please visit www.plusline.org and click on eChurch award.

—George Johnson Jr./Celeste Ryan 6

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Kettering to Host Annual Mission Conference Kettering Adventist HealthCare (KAH) will hold its annual mission conference November 3-5 at the Moraine Country Club and the Kettering Adventist church. Joel Ettinger and Dwight Nelson will be the keynote speakers. “Our goal is to enhance the collective understanding of the mission and strategic imperatives of Kettering Medical Center Network for board members, senior leaders, and medical executives,” says Joseph Nicosia, chief learning officer at Kettering Medical Center Network.

—LaVerne Henderson

Adventist HealthCare to Host Thanksgiving Concert Adventist HealthCare will hold its annual Celebration of Thanksgiving November 17 at The Music Center at Strathmore, in North Bethesda, Md. This year's event features a concert by the group Take 6 (see ad on page 18). This event provides an opportunity for the community to celebrate and give thanks for God's blessings. All proceeds will benefit community cancer screening.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 301-581-5100.—LaVerne Henderson

Project: Steps to Christ Infiltrates the Columbia Union Project: Steps to Christ is a Seventh-day Adventist laymen’s ministry instituted and designed to provide the opportunity for every home in America to have the gospel message delivered to their front door. “For over 32 years we have been working with churches and members to saturate various areas with mass mailings of the Ellen G. White book Steps to Christ, and other truth filled literature,” says Evangelism Coordinator Steve Peden.

From October 2004 to the present, more than 481,621 homes in the greater Washington, D.C., area received copies of the book—each carrying a Bible study enrollment card.

Of that number, 1,440 interest cards were returned with requests for Bible studies or additional information.

Project: Steps to Christ partners with Amazing Facts, whose Bible workers personally followed up on each card and began in-home Bible studies where requested.

Unlike other forms of Bible study enrollment material, the Steps to Christ cards have a longer “shelf life,” as people hold on to the books for an extended period of time and come back to them later.

“To date we have reached over 15 million homes,” Peden states. “We have seen tens of thousands

Newsline respond to the free offers of additional books or Bible studies.” Mailings are made possible through generous, nationwide donations.

“Thousands more seeds have been planted, awaiting the outpouring of God’s Spirit and the bringing in of the final harvest,” adds Peden. “Our goal is to reach the entire United States within the next 10 years in order to hasten the soon return of Jesus.”

For additional information, call (800) 728-6872 or visit www.projectstc.org—LaVerne Henderson

Seventh-day Adventists Believe Revised Following GC Session Six weeks after world Church leaders voted a new fundamental belief statement, members now have an updated reference tool. The 446-page, paperbound volume is entitled Seventh-day Adventists Believe: An Exposition of the Fundamental Beliefs of the Seventhday Adventist Church. Printed by the Pacific Press Publishing Association, it offers a deeper explanation of what Adventist Christians believe, and why.

The book includes a new chapter on “Growing in Christ,” the fundamental belief statement voted by delegates to the Church’s 58th General Conference Session. The chapter explains the rationale for the belief, as well as its expression in the life of the believer. Although only belief statements are officially voted expressions of Adventist doctrine, the included

expositions can be used to amplify and deepen one’s understandings of those beliefs.

This is the first rewrite since the original Seventhday Adventists Believe appeared in 1988. That volume went through many printings, with nearly 1 million copies in circulation. The new volume was revised and edited by John M. Fowler, an associate in the world Church’s Education Department. Fowler also wrote the new chapter “Growing in Christ.”

Seventh-day Adventists Believe features a wide range of sources used in explaining and expanding on Adventist beliefs. More than 30 authors and speakers are quoted or referenced in the chapters, accompanying and explaining each belief statement.

Currently published in English, editions in Spanish, Portuguese, and French are expected to be available by the end of the year, according to Pastor James M. Cress, world Church ministerial secretary.

“This single volume shows in detail how each belief is grounded in the Bible and focused on Jesus Christ,” he says. “Members can use this book to dig deeper into the roots of their faith, to rediscover the details of truth that excited them when they first found the joy of salvation.”

The English edition of Seventh-day Adventists Believe will soon be available through the local Adventist Book Center at www.adventistbookcenter.com, or the Ministerial Association at www.ministerialassociation.com.—Mark A. Kellner

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ADVENTISTS REMEMBER THE

JOURNEY CHRIST TO

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t’s always gratifying to hear the testimonies of people who have been converted. These new creatures in Christ have compelling stories about their lives before, during, and following their baptisms. In this feature, a department head at a Seventh-day Adventist college, a former Catholic from Ecuador, a wife and mother who led her husband and a son to Christ, and a former hippie share their journeys. Our prayer is that upon reading these stories of conversion, you will remember and celebrate God’s transforming grace in your life.

Larry Beneke The Still Small Voice arry Beneke can actually say that his rebirth is the result of a series of subtle, yet powerful messages over the past 30 years. The most recent came from Barry Black, chaplain of the United States Senate.

Beneke heard Black speak recently at the Kettering Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ohio. Suddenly all of the previous messages made sense. That’s when Beneke, director of Radiological Sciences and Imaging at Kettering College of Medical Arts, knew that he wanted to be baptized.

Although he had been baptized as a child in the United Church of Christ, Beneke understood the significance of being rebaptized. He literally viewed his submersion as a rebirth. “Pastor Black’s words overwhelmed me,” he remembers. “He told the congregation not to wait but to make a commitment to the Lord

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Larry Beneke (center), pictured with his wife Diane and Pastor David VanDenburgh, has worked 30 years in the Kettering Adventist HealthCare system. Beneke’s spiritual journey culminated in baptism after hearing Barry Black speak at the Kettering church.

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now.” Those words haunted Beneke for several days; then he called the church pastor, David VanDenburgh.

Journey Home Beneke’s journey to Kettering began after he completed x-ray technology training in California. Having been raised in Southwest Ohio, he yearned to return home to begin his new career. So during the fall of 1974, he interviewed with all of the hospital radiology departments in the Dayton area. During one interview, Beneke was told not to expect any response from Kettering because he was not an Adventist.

What happened? Kettering Memorial Hospital was the only one to offer him a position. This was the beginning of the subtle messages.

After transferring from Kettering’s radiology department to Kettering College of Medical Arts in the late 1980s, Beneke found himself struggling with his personal life. Then he met his future wife Diane, who worked in the college president’s office. “I can’t explain it, but when I met Diane everything instantly fell into place. We were so compatible; we fit perfectly.” Another subtle message.

Beneke married Diane in 1991 and began attending the Kettering church with his new, Adventist bride. “I always felt comfortable there, and the people were always so welcoming.” The messages continued.

A Time of Testing Then, a year ago, the couple was blindsided by the horrible news that Diane had stage-three lung cancer. Thanks to the support of family and friends at church and work, they are doing remarkably well. Diane, unfortunately, had a setback when she learned the cancer had metastasized to her brain.

She endured more chemo and radiation therapies.

Her most recent tests conveyed good news about the brain tumors.

When relaying his love and admiration for his wife, Beneke’s eyes well up with tears. “During a time like this everything affects you, whether it’s the music at church or encouraging words from a co-worker,” he states. “We have never once questioned God’s part in all this. We are looking to Him to get us through.” Yet another message.

After 30 years of working within the Kettering network, Beneke has grown and embraced its faith.

“They have shown me a culture of faith that I would like to emulate,” he says.

So, on that Sabbath in May, as Chaplain Black presented his sermon to the congregation, the messages came together and Beneke decided to heed the call.

He recommitted his life to Jesus Christ and was baptized on June 18. “This is much more than becoming a member of the church, this is a rebirth,” he says. “I finally listened to ‘the still small voice’ sending me those messages all these years. I have rekindled my commitment to follow Christ’s teachings as my guiding principles.”—Ken Chaij

The Bertinis A “Sign” of Conversion uan Carlos Bertini and his wife Johanna were driving along when they spotted a highway sign advertising the Richland Seventh-day Adventist Church. Juan, a former Catholic, and Johanna, a former Adventist (who saw the sign first), decided to visit the Pennsylvania Conference church.

Entering the threemonth-old, mint-green sanctuary in 2003, the Ecuadorian couple was greeted by Lay Pastor Brandon White and Johanna Bertini, a former Adventist, members. The congrerededicated her life to Christ and gation flocked to them, joined her husband in baptism. pouring out words of encouragement, genuine smiles, welcomes, and hugs. “We stressed that when you come to Richland once you’re a visitor, but after that, it’s your home,” White says. The Bertinis absorbed

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I wanted a change in my life; to start from scratch as an Adventist family and to be an example for my little boys, Francesco and Stephano.—Johanna Bertini I’ve learned and ingested so much about the Bible, that my eyes are opened and I no longer strive to be part of this world.—Juan Carlos Bertini OCTOBER 2005

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Richland’s caring, friendly atmosphere and quickly warmed to the congregation.

Johanna testified that it was Richland’s friendly spirit that kept them coming to the church. “They made us feel like we were family, and we became very attached since we have no family in America.”

Juan really appreciated the “small, loving congregation,” versus his former large, yet lessfriendly one.

It was during a potluck that Juan finally got some answers to his questions about the Book of Revelation.

This led to Bible Juan Carlos Bertini (right) prepares to be studies from baptized by Lay Pastor Brandon White.

Travis Dean, an elder who faithfully spent three to four hours per week, for one year, at the Bertini’s home.

Johanna decided to join her husband during the study. Though she was baptized into the Adventist Church in Ecuador at age 10, the influence of friends who were not a part of the Church caused her to drift away. “I wanted a change in my life; to start from scratch as an Adventist family and to be an example for my little boys, Francesco and Stephano.”

Juan Carlos Bertini, a former Catholic, The couple and his wife Johanna, a former Adventist, studied hard became members of the Richland church and asked lots through baptism. of questions.

“I’ve learned and ingested so much about the Bible,” says Juan, “that my eyes are opened and I no longer strive to be part of this world.” Following the Daniel and Revelation study, Dean and Pastor White took the Bertinis through a separate study of the church fundamental beliefs.* Juan and Johanna agreed that their most challenging and interesting learning experience was about the Trinity. However, the couple agrees that 10

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the pastor and elder explained it very well, using three-in-one parallels.

“I learned a lot about religion and how to become a good Christian through them,” says Johanna. Once the studies were completed, Juan made the decision to be baptized and Johanna, to renew and rededicate herself to Christ.

On August 14, 2004, Juan and Johanna were baptized. “I was excited about being baptized into the Adventist Church,” explained Juan. “I saw it as a way to reinforce my new beliefs and to make sure that I was committed to Christ.”

Following the ceremony, the church presented the family with thumbprint Bibles, baby clothes, cards, and a Veggie Tales video. The small congregation then celebrated the baptism with another potluck and cake.

“I know that I’ve accomplished something important for my soul salvation,” said the former Catholic, who smiled as he came out of the water. “I am still amazed at the excellent sermons the Holy Spirit provides for me through the pastor and elders,” says Juan.—Sheena White *THERE ARE NOW 28 FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS AS VOTED AT THE RECENT GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION.

Andrew Clark (second from right), pastor and Executive Director of the Bridgeville Adventist Community Center, basks in the "Sonshine" with his dad Tom, wife Mayda, and mother Bernadette.

My life was out of control; I didn’t care if I lived or died. That’s when I went to my mom and told her that I had tried everything and nothing worked. I told her that I was ready to try religion because of the change in her life.—Andrew Clark

The Clarks A Family Affair ndrew Clark, a recent graduate of Columbia Union College (CUC), is a Pennsylvania Conference pastor. Through the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Initiative, he also serves as executive director of the Bridgeville Adventist Community Services Center (ACS). This young pastor’s conversion is the result of a domino-affect started by his mother Bernadette. His is the second of three Clark family conversions since 1997.

Bernadette was always a religious woman. As a result of her deep relationship with God, she joined a convent right out of high school. But that didn’t pan out, and she found herself “back in the world.” Years went by, and she again yearned for that closeness. In August 1997 Bernadette attended a Revelation seminar at an Adventist church near her home in Indiana.

By December she was baptized.

“I found a way to be in the world, but not part of it,” she explains. “That’s why I joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church. My husband was very leery,” she continues. “Even Andrew asked me, ‘What are you doing? You’ve been a Catholic all of your life.’”

Speaking for his two older siblings, Andrew says, “We thought she was turning into a religious nut, but it was obvious that she was really happy.” Then Bernadette insisted that Andrew attend a church function. “They had a lot of weird food,” he remembers, “but they were incredibly happy, and that stuck in my mind.”

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A Mother’s Prayer One night soon afterward, Andrew passed his mother’s room and overheard her tearfully praying for God’s will to be done in his life. It made an impression. But Andrew had to hit rock bottom first.

“I was doing a lot of drugs,” he recalls. “My life was out of control; I didn’t care if I lived or died,” he explains. “That’s when I went to my mom and told her that I had tried everything and nothing worked. I told her that I was ready to try religion because of the change in her life.”

Bernadette’s pastor, who happened to be a former alcoholic, instantly related to Andrew and helped him get clean. Then, while temporarily living with his parents in Georgia, Andrew discovered that Adventist Christians were active in outreach.

Andrew Clark (center), celebrates his graduation from Columbia Union College with his dad Tom and mother Bernadette.

Next, a young man named Jonathon introduced him to Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tenn. Andrew was intrigued about a Christian education, but school was starting in a week. So Jonathon used his connections to get his friend enrolled. Then a school counselor advised Andrew to become a theology major. “I didn’t even know what that was until the middle of the semester,” he laughs.

Andrew was baptized in December 1999 and remained there for a year. He took a hiatus and worked at Project Patch, a camp for troubled youth in Idaho. Before returning to Southern, Andrew attended his mother’s new church in Wilmington, Del. There he saw a promotional video for CUC highlighting its campus ministries program.

Intrigued again, Andrew stopped by CUC on his way to Southern. “My car was packed,” he says, “but I wanted to see another Adventist college campus.”

There he was directed to Gaspar Colón, a theology OCTOBER 2005

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department professor and director of the metropolitan ministries program. Andrew enrolled at CUC and was soon working for Monte Sahlin, Columbia Union Conference Vice President for Creative Ministries.

The Union, CUC, and Andrews University established this outreach ministries to help those affected by the September 11 attack.

“After that, I got really excited about the metropolitan outreach program and started working with Gaspar and Monte to establish CUC’s Center for Metropolitan Ministry,” says Andrew.

A Son Leads the Way During his sophomore year at college, Andrew helped establish an Adventist Community Services center at his mother’s Delaware church called ACORN (Adventist Community Organization Network). Tom, Andrew’s father, noticed that his son

was now drug free and involved in the community. It inspired Tom to begin studying the Bible and to find a job that didn’t require him to work on Sabbath.

“God had a plan,” he says of his conversion.

“I’ve always told Andy, if you have to change something, it’s better to change it from the inside. I saw Adventism as a chance to do the right thing—to help people.” Tom was baptized in September 2004.

Pastor Clark is still busy with his outreach efforts through the ACS Center recently established in Pittsburgh. The only difference is that nowadays his wife Mayda joins him. The couple first met at CUC. After Andrew’s graduation, Mayda became a taskforce worker for the ACS Center in Pittsburgh.

They were married last month. Together, the Clark family will continue the circle of outreach started

by Bernadette, picked up by Andrew, and continued

by Tom. This is indeed a family affair, and they are determined to make a difference.—Beth Michaels

Mark and Diana Mirek and Ken Knoechel Two Hippies and an Adventist Find Christ ark Mirek’s conversion is really the story of three people—Mirek, his wife Diana, and their friend Ken Knoechel. As children of the 1960s, they were avowed hippies—committed to partying, drinking, and doing drugs. None believed in a loving God who died to save them. Now, 30 years later, their lives are dramatically different.

What happened?

Mirek was educated in a conservative Protestant Christian academy in Chicago, Ill. Though they studied the Bible daily, it didn’t mean much to him.

“It wasn’t central to my life,” he said. “The notion of a devil was a big joke. And if there was no devil, then God was responsible for everything that was happening in the world,” he says. “I knew I could do a better job than Him in running the universe,”

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Mark and Diana Mirek were avowed hippies in the 60s when a former Adventist introduced them to Christ.

The three are still faithful members.

The notion of a devil was a big joke. And if there was no devil, then God was responsible for everything that was happening in the world. I knew I could do a better job than Him in running the universe.—Mark Mirek

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he laughed. These thoughts led Mirek to become an atheist and deny God’s existence.

While living in Chicago after college, Mirek met Diana, his future wife. Raised a Catholic, Diana didn’t have much interest in God. She was attending college in Cincinnati, so Mirek moved there to be with her.

The couple often double-dated with Diana’s roommate and her Adventist boyfriend, Knoechel.

Divorced and discouraged, Knoechel struggled with God. “My life wasn’t working out according to the script, so I chose a hedonistic life. I decided that if there was a God, He knew how to reach me.”

On September 20, 1973, the three found themselves discussing the fate of the world. “I asked Ken why he was so interested in money and the future,” says Mirek. “With nuclear war, the environment, and a poor economy, the world couldn’t last more than five or 10 years.”

“If there’s an answer to what’s going to happen to this world, it’s in the Bible,” Knoechel replied. “I’ll tell you what I know.” He spent the rest of the night revealing the plan of salvation—from Genesis, to the cross, to the final crisis.

My life wasn’t working out according to the script, so I chose a hedonistic life.

I decided that if there was a God, He knew how to reach me.

Searching the Scriptures

—Ken Knoechel

“When he was done, our hearts were won,” said Mirek. “When Ken shared the gospel with us, it was the first time I’d ever heard the story from the beginning to end,” says Diana. “I’d heard bits and pieces, but never from the fall of Lucifer to the coming of Christ—and everything in-between.

When he got to the part about the cross, I saw Jesus hanging there and, for the first time, knew in my heart that if I was the only human being on earth He had to save, He would have gone through it all just for me,” she says of the life-transforming experience. “I knew that I couldn’t just go to church one day and put my religion on the shelf for the rest of the week; there was going to be drastic changes in all of my activities.”

However he and Diana, avowed skeptics, still had questions. In an effort to prove their friend wrong, they bought Bibles and began studying. Mirek kept a notebook of questions and wrote down the answers as they were revealed. Everything made sense. He realizes now that his notebook had the basic fundamental beliefs of the Adventist Church.

Knoechel was studying too. “As we talked about the plan of salvation, I began to see it for myself,” he states. “For months I knew something was horribly wrong in my life. My experience with Mark and Diana led me to Christ.”

Knoechel gave the couple copies of several books, including Uriah Smith’s Daniel and Revelation and Ellen G. White’s The Great Controversy. “When I read Ellen White’s book, I was hearing the same voice I heard when reading the Bible,” said Mirek. “She spoke with

the same degree of inspiration as Paul or Ezekiel.” Mirek and Diana began keeping the Sabbath in their own way while searching for a church. They visited numerous churches but none emphasized the return of Jesus.

That’s when Knoechel invited them to visit the Germantown (Ohio) church, led by Lay Pastor Walter Wright. “We went there looking like the Mod Squad—with long hair, pants with patches, and baggy shirts,” laughed Mark. “But we were welcomed with open arms.” Music was a big part of their lives, and he says the music at Germantown was fabulous. Best of all, the congregation talked about Jesus and His coming again. The three friends were baptized on December 31, 1973—four months after meeting Jesus for the first time in a Cincinnati living room. “Even though it’s been over 30 years, we’re still excited about Jesus,” he says.

“Knowing that salvation is only through Christ’s righteousness still inspires me today,” Mirek says.

Now a teacher at the Piqua Seventh-day Adventist School, he has taught for 30 years. Diana, once a stay-at-home mom, works as a speech pathologist in the public school system.

“If I hadn’t met [Christ], I question whether I’d be alive, contributing to society, and raising a family,” Mirek says. “This message has given real meaning and purpose to our lives. We can’t imagine life without Him.”—Sherry English

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Resource Guide Norma Sahlin

Witnessing and Nurturing Resources T

he news is full of tragic and discouraging events. The next time someone comments on the lack of good news, be prepared to talk about the Good News of the gospel and to introduce them to your best friend,

Jesus Christ. Time is too short and life is too complicated for everyone not to know Him. The following resources will show you how to witness to others in a winsome way and then nurture them as new members:

One-Minute Witness Author: Monte Sahlin Source: Center for Creative Ministry at (800) 272-4664 or www.creativeministry.org Price: $1.49 Simple steps win a hearing for the gospel. This pocket-sized booklet details how to live your faith and witness naturally.

You Can Witness Author: Bob Johnson Source: AdventSource at (800) 3280525 or www.adventsource.org Price: $8.95 Discover the three R’s of witnessing and why people respond differently.

Learn from the Master Soul winner and share God’s love happily and effectively.

Friend 2 Friend Authors: Monte Sahlin and Curtis Rittenour Source: Center for Creative Ministry at (800) 272-4664 or www.creativeministry.org Price: $85 This six-part workshop resource offers a fresh approach to evangelism that is sure to appeal to every church member. The format allows for presentation during a weekend or over multiple weeks, to groups of any size. Materials include a Leader’s Guide, Participant’s Guide, Video Vignettes for teaching, and PowerPoint presentations. The kit also includes six 20-minute video presentations by Monte Sahlin.

Discipling New Members Author: General Conference Department of Women’s Ministries Source: AdventSource at (800) 3280525 or www.adventsource.org Price: $2.95 14

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With discussion topics such as lifestyle, Bible study, and the Spirit of Prophecy, this resource shows you how to disciple new members.

41 Bible Studies—Witnessing Author: Cindy Tutsch Source: AdventSource at (800) 328-0525 or www.adventsource.org Price: $2.95 for a pack of 10 Learn to witness from Scripture with this 41st Bible study brochure, the last in this series, for teens.

HeartCall—Come Alive with Jesus Author: North American Division Department of Women’s Ministries Source: AdventSource at (800) 328-0525 or www.adventsource.org Price: $2.95 These seven encouraging Bible lessons focus on dynamic Christian living and are especially appropriate for new or reconnecting members.

Power Witnessing Author: David A. Farmer Source: AdventSource at (800) 3280525 or www.adventsource.org Price: $9.95 A refreshing change from one-size-fits-all cookie-cutter witnessing, this book explains how to tailor one’s witness to individual personalities and appeal to their unique worldview. It offers a clear understanding of temperament theory, with special tips for witnessing to the sanguine, phlegmatic, choleric, or melancholy personality. You will learn and understand how they think before introducing the most important subject in the world.

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Can You Hear Me Now? William G. “Bill” Robertson

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ave you noticed the cell phone commercial where the slightly annoying guy keeps saying, “Can you hear me now?” He never has anything else to say; he simply wants to be heard.

His question is often reflected in some of the cell phone calls I overhear in public places. You know, the ones that go something like this: “Hey. I’m on the metro. Where are you?” That’s how it starts. They just want to be heard, to know that someone else knows they are alive on the planet. They just want to connect.

I know how they feel.

The gift of speech is perhaps the most common and familiar. It’s used for interaction and acknowledgement of others and is the primary means to make ourselves known. Conversations that begin with, “Can you hear me now?” can actually be the foundation of our discovery of one another. I like getting phone calls from the people I love, even when those calls have no other purpose than to connect, to be heard, to reaffirm our relationship. I love hearing from a friend, or running into an acquaintance, and taking a few minutes to hear how things are going. I love hearing a familiar voice on the answering machine, even if it only leaves a number where I can call to establish contact. And I’m not alone in this, not at all.

Hear God Speak Throughout the Old Testament, speech is the primary medium of God’s disclosure to His people.

“Hear, O Israel … ” is the command in Deuteronomy 6:4. The essential attitude of the person of faith is to listen—to hear: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.” In Isaiah 50:4, the prophet proclaims that God is the one who “ … wakens my ear to listen” (NIV).

“Can you hear me now?” God seems to be asking us. He, too, wants to be heard. He wants us to know that Someone is there. But unlike the Verizon ad, God has plenty to say.

The psalmist says, “Oh, that today you would hearken to God’s voice! Do not harden your hearts, as your forbearers did in the wilderness” (Psalm 95:7-8,

Don’t you want to be familiar with the voice of the One who speaks about things that really matter and touch your heart?

paraphrase). It is a calling and a warning. We are called to hear God in our everyday lives. We are warned about what will happen if we resist or tune out His voice.

In Isaiah 55:3, the calling is an invitation and a promise. “Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, that you may live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, according to the faithful mercies shown to David” (NASB). Don’t you want to be familiar with the voice of the One who speaks about things that really matter and touch your heart?

The wise man said, “If you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God” (Prov. 2:1-5, NIV).

Wow! What a message for God to leave on the answering machines of our hearts and minds.

And it’s far better than, “Can you hear me now?”

William G. “Bill” Robertson is president and CEO of Adventist HealthCare.

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HEALING MINISTRY—NEWS Potomac Ridge Receives $25,000 Donation

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otomac Ridge Behavioral Health Foundation recently received a $25,000 check following the third annual Capitol Children’s Foundation Golf Classic. Dan Plante, president and co-founder of Capitol Drywall, Inc., and his business partner Karl Celtnieks, of the Capitol Children’s Foundation, presented the gift.

In recognition of this extraordinarily generous donation, one of two family therapy rooms at the new Children’s Unit will be named the Capitol Children’s Foundation Family Therapy Room. Including the $25,000 donation, over $1 million has been raised toward this initiative.

“We are touched beyond words by this remarkable act of kindness and generosity,” says Pat Petralia, vice president and chief operating officer of Potomac Ridge. “What makes the gift extra special is that Dan is a member of the Potomac Ridge Behavioral Health Foundation Board.”

“When I was invited to join the Foundation Board last fall, my decision was an unwavering yes,” Plante explains. “Mental illness is a cause that I care about deeply. When I learned about plans for the new Children’s Unit, it was an easy decision to get involved. When it involves children, particularly those who are in such emotional pain that they believe suicide is an option, I cannot stand by and do nothing,” he states.

Holding a mock check for $25,000 are (left to right) Alan Ezagui, Jill Sorensen, and Potomac Ridge Foundation Board Member Dan Plante.

Glade Valley Volunteer Receives Governor’s Award

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ohn Burke, an 84-year-old retiree and volunteer at Adventist HealthCare’s Glade Valley Nursing and Rehabilitative Center, received the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for outstanding service in 2004.

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Burke has been volunteering a little over a year at the Walkersville, Md., facility.

He has made quite an impact, coming in weekly to play the piano and sing for resiGlade Valley volunteer John Burke dents who receives the Governor’s Volunteer are in the Service Award from Maryland’s First early stages of Alzheimer’s Lady Kendel Ehrlich. or dementia.

According to Juliana Skerrett, Glade Valley’s activities assistant, residents who will not otherwise come out of their rooms will venture out when they hear Burke start to play. And those who do not normally interact will smile at one another, sing, or hold hands. Even residents who are wheelchair bound or have lost the cognitive ability to carry on conversations respond to Burke’s music by tapping their foot or swaying to the music.

While some residents will hover over Burke’s shoulder and hit a few keys, he finds them to be a great audience. “I enjoy playing for people who enjoy nostalgic music,” he says. Having grown up in Wildwood, N.J., a regular spot for big bands of long ago, Burke and Glade Valley residents share a common love for music of the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. He enjoys evoking fond memories of a past era.

A recent newlywed, Burke’s faithfulness is impressive. He now lives with his new bride Jenny in Fairfield, Pa., which is some distance from Walkersville. However, he is still willing to make the commute once a week to play for residents and staff.

It’s easy to see why he was recognized for outstanding volunteer service, meaningful commitment, positive influence, generosity, and kindness.

Hackettstown Opens Joan Knechel Cancer Center

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ackettstown Regional Medical Center president and CEO Gene C. Milton recently announced the opening of the Joan Knechel Cancer Center to serve northwest New Jersey residents. The Medical Center’s Foundation initiated a capital campaign two years ago to raise the $7 million to build the center.

“The cancer center is named after Joan Knechel, my valued colleague and a beloved nurse at our hospital for over 20 years,” says Milton. “This fulfills Joan’s dream to offer the most advanced diagnostic and treat-

HEALING MINISTRY—NEWS ment options to cancer patients.” Specific items include a Varian Dual Energy Linear Accelerator and a GE Discovery Quad PET/CT Scanner.

Regarding the memorial to his late wife, Tom Knechel states, “The center is beautiful. From its calm, soothing atmosphere to the unbelievable stateof-the-art technology—it’s all very impressive. Joan would have been proud.”

ing in Montgomery County. The Colorectal Screening Program offers colorectal education and screenings to low-income residents. In addition to these programs, both hospitals host an annual Cancer Screenings Days with free screenings for bladder, skin, oral, colorectal, and prostate cancers. In 2004 WAH administered over 530 cancer screenings and SGAH performed 660.

These programs are greatly appreciated throughout the community. The Health and Wellness Department, which organizes the programs, has received numerous positive comments. One participant described the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program as “a gift from heaven.”

In the competitive market of healthcare, most hospitals desire only to become the provider of choice—so that those in need will seek their services. But WAH and SGAH incorporate a ministry of healing that compels them to go out and seek those in need and provide for their physical, mental, and spiritual well being.

NBC-TV Features Shady Grove Physicians Cancer center directors Nancy Low and Robert Braun (right) pose with staff members near the new linear accelerator.

WAH’s Cancer Screening Saves Lives

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n 2003, Matt, a 56-year-old husband and father of three, made one of the most important decisions of his life when he decided to participate in Washington Adventist Hospital’s (WAH) Cancer Screening Days.

He signed up for a free take-home colorectal screening kit and discovered within a few weeks that he was positive and need further testing. Uninsured and unable to pay a $1,000 colonoscopy bill, he received financial aid through the hospital’s partnership with the Montgomery County Cancer Crusade. Further testing revealed that the cancer was confined to the tumor and only required surgery.

Statistics illustrate the importance of early detection and the need for oncology outreach. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Maryland, after heart disease, and one in four deaths are due to cancer. Many of these deaths are among minorities, immigrants, and the uninsured who, because of the high cost of health care and a lack of health knowledge, do not seek potentially lifesaving treatments like cancer screening.

In an effort to reduce cancer mortality rates, the government provides funds to hospitals specifically for oncology outreach. With these funds, Washington Adventist and Shady Grove Adventist hospitals have established a variety of community screening programs. The Breast Cancer Screening Program provides patient education, self-examination instructions, and access to treatment to low-income women over 40 liv-

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ave you ever wondered about the best way to treat a bee sting? When is it appropriate to seek medical treatment for severe sunburn in a child? Shady Grove Adventist Hospital (SGAH) pediatricians recently answered these and other health-related questions for viewers of WRC-TV (NBC, Channel 4). The station’s health producer, Michelle Michaels, visited Shady Grove’s Pediatric Emergency Department to interview medical staff member Sandy Takai and Emergency Room pediatrician Annie Soriano for the special segment. Physicians Soriano and Takai discussed answers to common first aid questions that arise for parents during the summer, including: What is the best way to treat sunburn in children?

What are the signs of dehydration in children?

■ What is the safest way to get water out of a child’s ears?

■ What is the best way to remove a splinter?

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An NBC-TV camera man prepares to interview Drs. Annie Soriano and Sandy Takaist.

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Fitness Camp 2005—All This and Paris Too! he certificates may not have come from Yale University, Harvard, or the University of Pennsylvania, but you couldn’t tell that to the 57 persons who made up the Fit 4 You Camp class of 2005. Their summer graduation exercises and class gala culminated two weeks of intensives and fun. The class, which included a pastor and a state senator, was the 27th graduating class since the camp’s beginning in 1978 under the leadership of Gwen Foster, who then served as the Health Ministries director for Allegheny East Conference (AEC).

(She now serves as health czar for the city Fit 4 You Camp Executive of Philadelphia.)

Director Andrea Leah Scott Andrea Leah Scott is the present Health Ministries director and executive director of Fit 4 You Camp. “The class of 2005 went far beyond my expectations. They were so energetic and ready for every challenge we threw at them,” said Scott, an experienced health professional and lifestyle coach.

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After two weeks, these campers proudly demonstrate their newfound ability to do pushups.

The Fit 4 You Camp class of 2005 poses with their counselors and staff. About 57 participants—most of whom are not Adventist members—participated in this year’s program.

Fit 4 You Camp is a health conditioning camp sponsored annually by AEC. Its mission is to teach individuals seeking a lifestyle change the processes whereby they can achieve it. Over a two-week period, the campers go through a rigorous schedule that begins with individual health assessments of blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and physical fitness. Each day they engage in a 6 a.m. walk, followed by a rich, hearty breakfast. Classes throughout the day are mixed with more healthy meals, physical activity, and a wealth of knowledge about wholistic health—the mental, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of life. In no time, there’s a new lifestyle in the making and new, healthy habits form. The two-week experience ends with another individual health assessment by the camp’s medical staff. Then, after all the hard work, there’s the big moment—graduation!

How did this year’s class do? Pennsylvania Senator Tony Williams, who lost 11 pounds, reduced his blood sugar level, cholesterol level, and blood pressure. “It was one of the greatest and most rewarding experiences of my life,” he said. “I will be back!”

AEC Pastor S. Peter Campbell, who was doubtful upon his arrival as to the camp’s ability to aid in his desire for a lifestyle change, left a changed man. As a matter of fact, he has an entirely different attitude about lifestyle. “I look better and feel better,” Campbell (continued on next page) OCTOBER 2005

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Fitness Camp, cont. said. “At fitness camp I learned that one should be focused, not fanatical. I want to live to see my granddaughter grow up. We have a responsibility to God to take care of our bodies.”

A gentleman from New Jersey testified, “My wife is the happiest she has been in years. I’ve taken her on cruises and to the Bahamas and Bermuda, and none of those trips did for her what one week at this camp did.”

Probably the most notable graduate was the lady who arrived at camp with a walker. She was only able to move a few feet at a time before stopping to rest.

Prior to attending camp, she had not been out of her house for three months. She graduated in absentia, due to the fact that her brother died two days before graduation. But, before she left, she was determined to walk without the aid of her walker. So, in the presence of many witnesses, she pushed it aside and walked the entire length of the 40-foot seminar room.

Fit 4 You Camp— 2005 Statistics General Statistics Total Campers: 57 Total Weight Lost: 342 lbs. (about the weight of an NFL linebacker)

Change in Cholesterol Levels Levels are categorized as follows: Ideal: less than 160; Desirable: 160-199; Borderline High: 200-239; High Risk: 240+ Average cholesterol of campers on July 18 (first day of camp): 205 Average two weeks later on July 29: 176

Blood Pressure Diastolic Change Levels are categorized as follows: Desirable: less than 80; Above Recommended: 80-89; High: 90+ Average diastolic pressure of campers on July 18: 80

Daily exercise is part of the fitness camp regimen. After their 6 a.m. walk of one, two, or 2.5 miles, these campers stroll to the cafeteria for breakfast.

The two-week experience ended with a well-planned gala. For 2005, it was a trip to Paris—a make-believe trip to Paris. Each attendee was given a French tam and a ticket to catch the 8:37 p.m. flight to Paris. Once there, they enjoyed delicious vegan French cuisine, music, and the company of friends, classmates, and family members around café tables within view of the “Eiffel Tower” and fountains.

The next morning, after hugs, well wishes, and brunch, the class of 2005 packed and headed home. The memories of camp and Paris will be shortlived. Fortunately, the joys of their new life—and a new lifestyle—are permanent and will continue.—Robert L. Booker

Average on July 29: 75

Blood Pressure Systolic Change Levels are categorized as follows: Desirable: less than 120; Above Recommended: 120-139; High: 140+

Allegheny East Conference PO Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548 ■ Phone: (610) 326-4610 www.myalleghenyeast.com ■ President, Charles L. Cheatham Communication Director, Robert Booker

Average systolic pressure of campers on July 18: 136

Pine Forge Academy (800) 390-9529 ■ www.pineforgeacademy.org e-mail: pfa@pineforgeacademy.org Headmaster, Cynthia Poole-Gibson

Average on July 29: 130

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Honor Your Pastor! astors and their families live under incredible pressures. Their lives are played out in a fishbowl, with the entire congregation watching their every move. They are expected to have ideal families, be perfect people, always be available, never be down, and have all the answers we need to keep our own lives stable and moving forward.

Those are unrealistic expectations to place on anyone, yet most of us are disappointed when a pastor becomes overwhelmed, seems discouraged, lets us down, or completely burns out.

The good news is that we can make a difference! We can help counter the negative erosion in the lives of our spiritual leaders with a little positive affirmation. Some congregations I know set aside a special time to honor their pastors and pastoral families for the hard work, sacrificial dedication, and multiple blessings they provide.

Many churches honor their pastor during October, which is known as “Pastor Appreciation Month.” Some congregations do it in a rather low-key manner by simply encouraging members to send a card or thank-you note to their pastoral family. Other congregations plan a more formal occasion to show their appreciation. The nature of the service provided by pastors and their families is unique. They carry tremendous responsibilities for the spiritual welfare of their members. I challenge you to make a difference in the life of your pastoral family. Let them Neville Harcombe President know they are appreciated!

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NEWS Eastern Shore Convocation Planned The annual convocation at Eastern Shore Junior Academy (ESJA) in Sudlersville, Md., will be held October 15 with Randy Murphy, former president of Mountain View Conference, as the featured speaker.

Charlotte McClure, an associate pastor of the Spencerville church in Silver Spring, Md., will present the general lesson study. Students from ESJA and Highland View Academy will provide music. A highlight of the day is the potluck dinner that showcases the culinary skills of the cooks from that area.

sacrificial spirit. Having completed the first phase of their dream, members now gather to worship in a lovely space that is one day to become additional Sabbath School classrooms. The second phase will be the construction of a sanctuary. In the meantime, the sacrificial spirit will continue and the mortgage will eventually be amortized. With God’s help this eager and energetic congregation will write a new chapter on effective ministry to Maryland’s capital city.

Annapolis Moves Into New Facility For the past three months, the Annapolis (Md.) congregation has been conducting services in their new facility at 1996 Generals Highway. This is the fulfillment of their long-time dream to have a permanent place of worship in the state’s capital city. Since the congregation broke ground for their new church home in 1999, there have been numerous times when they wondered if their dream would ever become reality. Doing much of the construction themselves— a few members at a time on a cash-and-carry basis—for the first few years, this small congregation is to be commended for their perseverance and

Annapolis (Md.) church

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Summer Camp 2005—A Review hat do you have if you take 520 young people, place them in a beautiful natural setting, add in three healthy meals a day, blend in a good dose of fun-filled activities, mix in a strong spiritual atmosphere and 60 highly committed staff members, and bake them in sun-warmed cabins? You have Chesapeake Conference Summer Camp 2005 at Mt. Aetna Camp!

As always, a wide variety of classes were available for the campers, including swimming, water skiing, canoeing, crafts, mountain biking and boarding, tennis, golf, rock climbing, the challenge ropes course, wilderness survival, horsemanship, and go-carts.

But summer camp is more than fun and games.

From the very first week of Adventure Camp, the Holy Spirit was very evident on the campgrounds.

During song services—led by Jeremy Robinson, Nate Gemmell, and Jon Stewart—singing praise songs took on a deeper, fuller meaning. Each visiting pastor highlighted the theme “Faith on Fire,” and each Friday night, the camp staff made a specific call to commitment.

Bible studies led by the cabin counselors each day supported the theme presented in morning camp council and evening worship. Even parents were

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blessed when they visited on Sabbath, some attending an Adventist worship service for the first time.

The most consistent response staff members received about the 2005 program was, “I loved Mt. Aetna Camp!”

Jesse Leone, assistant director of the camp, summed up the summer this way: “When you have a group of 60 staff from different backgrounds, and they come together to achieve one goal—fostering the spiritual well-being of campers—it becomes an amazing thing to behold. We can always strive to do more, but looking back over the summer and listening to the responses of the campers, I [believe] we were successful in reaching that goal.” Leone was right; they reached the goal. The 2005 camping season proved to be fun, inspirational, and life changing.

And it left campers and staff eager for the 2006 season to begin. For more information about Mt. Aetna Camp, call Nancy Thomas at (410) 374-6529.—Candy DeVore

The Challenge is published in the Visitor by the Chesapeake Conference ■ 6600 Martin Road, Columbia, MD 21044 Phone: (410) 995-1910 ■ Editor, Rob Vandeman Editorial Assistant, Barbara-Lee Boyd

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Wisbey Opens School Year With Call to Service olumbia Union College (CUC) began the academic year with an opening convocation—a spiritual starting point for the campus community—pledging support for continued spiritual and academic growth, and enrichment for all students, faculty, and staff.

Held at the college’s Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, the event featured CUC President Randal Wisbey, D.Min., as the main speaker. His presentation, “The Grand Adventure,” set the spiritual, academic, and social tone for the campus for the 2005-06 academic year.

Wisbey cited the example of how one young person, Francis of Assisi, changed the course of the world and inspired many of the great leaders of service to humanity—from Gandhi to Mother Teresa to Martin Luther King, Jr.—to follow the example of Jesus to love others. He then challenged the campus community to do the same.

“If you have hands and a heart, you can—you must— serve others; and open your eyes to see and serve those whom we sometimes don’t want to see,” Wisbey said.

“Service fulfills God’s plan for your life. We have a variety of communities around us, just miles from the

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750 Enroll for Fall Semester s of the opening convocation, more than 750 students—including 250 enthusiastic new ones—were enrolled in CUC for the fall semester.

The figures were not complete at press time and did not include students in the college’s Adult Evening or MBA programs. However, the early figures show growth and vibrancy—an overall trend of the last five years that school officials are confident will continue.

This year’s student body represents 44 countries and includes students from 40 U.S. states and territories.

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CUC President Randal Wisbey, D.Min.

power and wealth of Capitol Hill, who need you,” Wisbey told the assembly. “Let us be known—on and off campus—for our commitment to love and respect.”

Wisbey concluded that the CUC community must embrace life as a grand adventure, to grow in faith and love, and experience the peace of God. Also during the convocation, David Barnes, senior class president, gave an address. On behalf of the students, he asked the administration and faculty for four things: to guide the students’ academic programs, encourage their spiritual life, support their social growth, and inspire their professional aspirations. He reminded fellow students that though they may resemble their mothers or fathers, even more so should they aspire to resemble their heavenly Father. Citing John 1:1 and Genesis 1:1, Barnes also told the students that even their words are powerful enough to affect change and create the climate they want at CUC. CUC holds a worship service at Sligo church each Wednesday at 11:15 a.m. During this time, to provide a campus-wide, midweek spiritual oasis, offices are closed and there are no scheduled classes.

Convocation services—with their variety of music, presenters, and range of relevant sermon topics—are central to the college’s identity as a community of faith.

Programs embrace the Seventh-day Adventist heritage and reach out to—and address the spiritual needs of— all people, regardless of denominational background.

The services are intended to point students and faculty to Jesus, challenging all to search God’s Word and be open to His transforming grace and call to service.

OCTOBER 2005

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Freshmen Receive Tips for Success irst Year Experience (FYE) at CUC is a mentoring program designed for incoming freshmen that will guide them on the path toward success and excellence. The program begins their first day on campus and continues throughout their college career.

Its purpose is to provide students with a smooth transition from high school to college.

“We want to help students make connections with CUC so they will feel like they belong,” said Tammi Shipowick Hoyt, assistant professor of communication and journalism and director of the FYE program. “[Many] times, students don’t feel successful because the transition between high school and college is so drastic.”

More than 15 student leaders— mostly juniors and seniors, as well as some graduates of last year’s program—will assist a dozen instructors in classroom activities and even teach some of the classroom sessions during the semester.

These student leaders act as mentors to the first-year students.

This year as preparation, CUC’s FYE instructors received a full day of training from Catherine Andersen,

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a nationally recognized expert who directs a similar program at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. The success of this year’s program will be measured through the responses of freshmen students as they continue to meet each week during the fall semester. Weekly classes include group discussions on the challenges, fears, and successes they may encounter during their first semester at CUC. The classes also take students to social and cultural events in the Washington metropolitan area.

Textbooks for the class include Education by Ellen G. White. This book will help students explore their faith and Adventist culture, and help them understand the principles of education.

Throughout the semester, students tackle several projects such as writing and designing a brochure about their major. They also interview their instructors, professionals working in their desired field, and fellow students in their major.

A few of the highlights from this year’s FYE have included: a day of trust-building exercises at a YMCA

camp on the Chesapeake Bay; tours of the D.C. area; and freshman class organization meetings and elections.

Many of the students currently participating in FYE also participated in Freshman Preview, a five-day introduction to CUC. The student leaders are central to the success of both programs.

During Freshman Preview they led campus tours, shepherded new students through the registration process, answered questions, gave advice, and gave presentations to help freshmen think about all aspects of college life.

“The student leaders are an invaluable part of the program because they can get to places with new students that the instructors can’t,” said Shipowick Hoyt.

For more information on the program, call the Office of Student Life at (301) 891-4110 or the Center for Learning Resources at (301) 891-4106.

CALENDAR

October 2

Student Association Carnival

5

Service Day

17-19 Midterm Exams 20

Student Association Tour The White House

20-23 Midterm Break 30Writers Conference Nov. 1

November 7-11

Health and Wellness Emphasis Week

11-13 Parent Weekend

The First Year Experience mentoring program is designed to provide freshman with a smooth transition from high school to college.

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Gateway is published in the Visitor by the Columbia Union College 7600 Flower Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 Phone: (800) 835-4212 ■ www.cuc.edu Randal Wisbey, President ■ PR Director, Scott Steward

OCTOBER 2005

Intentional Living just take one day at a time and hope for the best.” That may be a way to face a crisis and endeavor to cope, but it’s not a very productive way to spend your life. Recently, I came across a book with an intriguing title: Don’t Waste Your Life. Could it be that we are going through life, merely taking one day at a time, without any real direction for accomplishing something significant?

“What on earth am I here for?” That’s a good question to ask ourselves. Moments turn into minutes, minutes into hours, hours into days, and days into weeks, months, and years. As time relentlessly slips by, what are you accomplishing really worthwhile in life? What does God want you to achieve in life? Here are some simple steps to follow in planning your life’s direction:

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1. Study God’s Word and pray for Him to reveal what He wants to accomplish with your life.

2. Write a mission statement on the purpose of your life—keeping in mind where God has placed you, your sphere of influence, and your unique spiritual gifts. (“My mission in life here is to … ”) 3. Consider what needs to be done to accomplish that mission, such as getting the proper education, changing your schedule and priorities, devoting time and effort necessary, etc.

4. Write a plan on how you will accomplish God’s will for your life. Include what must be done now, in the coming months, and in future years to make it happen.

5. Surrender your life completely to Jesus and claim the promise that He will strengthen and enable you—through His Spirit—to accomplish the mission and ministry of your life.

We can either coast through life and take whatever comes next, or we can choose to intentionally live each day to accomplish His call and purpose for us. Lord, help me to “press Kingsley Whitsett toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!” (Phil. 3:14) President

Pace-Setting Youth Ministries Convention Planned youth and children’s ministries convention will be held at Valley Vista Adventist Campground October 22-24. This convention has the combined purpose of training leaders in the local churches to make disciples of young people and providing leaders with necessary resources and support.

Children’s and youth ministries leaders, VBS, Adventurer Clubs and Pathfinder directors, young people’s Sabbath School teachers, pastors, and all others who are involved in work for the young in the Columbia Union are welcome to attend.

The trainers who will conduct the seminars at this convention are specialists in their fields. Seminars will be given for each branch of ministry, and every local ministry director will Philip Samaan receive a syllabus containing

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resources that can be used throughout the year. The overarching emphasis will be on sharpening evangelistic skills and providing spiritual nurture. “Our aim is to help leaders for our youth and children become successful mentors of the young,” says Abelardo Rivas, Mountain View Conference Director of Youth Ministries and the organizer of this convention. “This involves fostering a Christian experience and showing the young people how to be soul-winners, not just in the arena of public evangelism, but in their daily contact with people. We all know that primarily young people launched the Advent movement. We want to faithfully do our part to see that they have no lesser role in finishing God’s work.”

In keeping with this approach, Philip Samaan, a theology teacher at Southern Adventist University, will give four presentations on how to help young people become disciples of Jesus. Samaan will open the convention Friday evening with a message on Christ’s way of making disciples. His wife, Sherilyn Samaan, will play her harp during four worship services planned. (continued on next page)

OCTOBER 2005

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Pastors Attend Leadership Development Retreat t a recent family retreat, Mountain View Conference pastors were interested to hear that the four characteristics most admired in leaders are integrity/honesty, forward-looking vision, competence, and inspiration. The information was presented at the launch of a four-year, leadership development program directed by Pastor Skip Bell of Andrews University, in Berrien Springs, Mich. This program is designed to enhance the servant/leadership skills of pastors and make them more effective examples to leaders in local churches.

The curriculum involves a guided reading program; the formation of work groups that meet three times a year; a mentoring/coaching process; and the use of assessment tools, reflective writing, and other disciplines.

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Tri-State Youth to “Radiate” in Wheeling he Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Mountain View conferences have joined to sponsor “Radiate—Be Something More” a youth congress that will convene at the Ramada Inn in Wheeling, W.Va., Nov. 4-6.

“This event is designed to touch, teach, transform, and train young people in becoming full-fledged Christians,” says youth director and coordinator Abelardo Rivas. “We have designated this convention to remind each participant that, as Christ’s followers, we are the light of the world. In the Spirit of Prophecy we read, ‘He has chosen the youth to aid in the advancement of His cause. To plan with clear mind and execute with courageous hand demands fresh, uncrippled energies.

Young men and women are invited to give God the strength of their youth, that through the exercise of their powers, through keen thought and vigorous action, they may bring glory to Him and salvation to their fellow men. There is need of young men and women who will not be swayed

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by circumstances, who walk with God, who pray much, and who put forth earnest efforts to gather all the light they can’” (Evangelism, p. 478).

Leaders and presenters at the “Radiate” congress will model the way to revive Adventist Youth Society, which became nearly extinct in North America in the 1980s. The aim of these revived societies is to mobilize youth in local churches to operate as an evangelistic corps and encourage one another in the Christian life.

This intensive weekend event will include seminars and practical ministries, like street witnessing in Wheeling and hospital visits on Sabbath. Sunday morning will be devoted to a community service project in Steubenville, Ohio. Radiate will end Sunday evening with a worship service led by songwriter Rod Snyder. During the weekend, Mike Stevenson, Ohio Conference Youth Director, will be the keynote speaker.

A number of ministries, including Adventist Community Services and

Youth Ministries, cont.

On Sunday morning, Rivas will conduct an organizational meeting with leaders to plan future meetings and youth congresses. They’ll also lay groundwork for an evangelism effort in Venezuela in 2008 that will be led by youth and adults.

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The $49 registration fee covers meals, lodging, and printed resource materials. You will receive a complimentary copy of Samaan’s book, Christ’s Way of Praying. Call (304) 422-4581 or e-mail Pastor Rivas at arivas7@verizon.net.

Amazing Facts, will be represented by exhibits, staffed by personnel prepared to discuss service and educational opportunities with young people.

Radiate is open to all Adventist young people and leaders, in the North American Division, who are interested in youth-led ministries.

For more information, contact Pastor Rivas at (304) 422-4581 or arivas7@verizon.net.

Mountain View

EVENTS October 7-9

Women’s Retreat Valley Vista

16

New Ministers Workshop

21-23 Children/Youth Leadership Training Valley Vista

November 4-6

Youth Congress Wheeling

6

Ministers Meeting

8

Departmental Council

Mountain Viewpoint is published in the Visitor by the Mountain View Conference 1400 Liberty Street, Parkersburg, WV 26101 ■ Phone: (304) 422-4581 President, Kingsley Whitsett Editor, Brian Jones ■ www.mtviewconf.org

SpiriT MOUNT VERNON ACADEMY OCTOBER 2005

Lifestyle Evangelism—Not an Occasional Incident s I observed our students during registration, I was initially excited that the Lord provided 156 students to start the school year—a significantly larger number than we had anticipated in the spring. My thoughts soon shifted, however, to something our Chaplain Tim Soper shared with me: “Regardless of our students’ career interests, we want them to leave Mount Vernon Academy (MVA) with an ability to evangelize as lay people,” he said.

“Witnessing should become a lifestyle, not an occasional incident.”

With the overwhelming financial support of our local church community, we set out to purchase Mark Finley’s book, Studying Together, to equip each of our students with a tool for evangelism. I continue to be amazed at how the Lord uses our local church community to support MVA. Thanks to their generosity, the impact our students will be able to make in their own communities will also help strengthen their relationships with Christ.

As our students “Discover Christ and Discover Themselves” here at MVA, it is our David Daniels Principal desire that evangelism does indeed become a lifestyle and not an occasional incident.

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Staff Challenged to Re-Examine Beliefs he start of the school year brings about a feeling of excitement and anticipation about what the Lord has in store. The commission that the Lord has given us to work with his young people is one that should not be taken lightly. In an effort to unify the staff and their commitment to their call in Adventist education, MVA recently held a staff weekend retreat.

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In his Sabbath sermon, Lou Toscano, Ohio Conference Trust Services Director, challenged MVA’s staff to re-examine their beliefs.

During the retreat, Lou Toscano, Ohio Conference Trust Services Director, officiated a communion service, evening vespers, and Sabbath worship experience.

Before the ordinance of humility, he challenged attendees to be bold like Mary Magdelene as she approached the Lord and washed His feet with her perfume. As he went on to describe the scene that took place at the last supper, one could not help but imagine the emotion and devotion the disciples must have felt as the Lord washed their feet. This message definitely set the tone for the staff, who share with one another and labor together at Mount Vernon Academy.

Faith directly influences beliefs. What are you doing right now that is a direct result of your beliefs? This question was firmly planted in the minds of staff during Sabbath’s divine worship service. Toscano’s message helped us focus on our relationship with Christ and how that relationship transcends to our students. He challenged us to examine our hearts and make sure our lives are modeled after the life of Christ.

Adventist educators have a specific calling to prepare students for the Lord’s second coming. The services shared by staff were designed to unify and challenge us to be bold and faithful servants in Christ.

Accepting this challenge is the only way to help students embrace their beliefs and our number one objective at Mount Vernon Academy—spirituality.

OCTOBER 2005

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SpiriT MVA Family Grows he 2005-06 registration brought 156 returning and new students to MVA. That’s an eight percent growth over last year’s enrollment. The photos below feature some of the students who will be attending MVA this year. Our mission is that they will discover Christ and themselves while they receive a quality education.

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New sophomore Heather Hays with her mom Returning junior Kendree Magana with her parents

Junior Tristan Shaw and senior Alicia Castillo welcoming students at the Student Association table.

New sophomore Amber Opdyke with her dad

Freshman Stephanie Hughes with her mother

Returning sophomore Jonathan Schuen with his father and brother

Returning senior Nozipho Ncube

Parents, Mrs. DeBardeleben and Mrs. McCall, enjoy lunch during registration.

calendar of

events

October 13-16 18-20 24-28 27-29

Home Leave Midterm Exams OGT Testing Hand Bell Festival

November 4-6

Parent Weekend Parent/Teacher Conferences

11-13 22-27

Loren Duke, Class of 2003, and returning sophomore Lindsay Messick help MVA staff register the incoming students.

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Prayer Conference (closed weekend) Thanksgiving Break

Spirit is published in the Visitor by Mount Vernon Academy 525 Wooster Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 ■ Phone: (740) 397-5411 ■ Principal, David Daniels ■ www.mvacademy.org

OCTOBER 2005

For God’s Sake ot too long ago, I read the results of a poll asking university students if they believed in God. I was pleased to see the greater majority did. However, the results of the second question were very disturbing: Although most believe in God, they did not believe in Satan. The consequences of believing in God, but not Satan, lead to a devastating image of Him. All the painful things that happen to us come from the only possible source—God. I thought about this, recently, as I caught a glimpse of one of those TV “reality” shows. The scene broke my heart—for God’s sake.

On the screen, there was a very disturbed teen who had been sent to a rehabilitation-type boot camp. There was extreme winter weather, and she sat curled in a little ball, buried beneath layers of coats, gloves, and a hat.

She rocked back and forth, sobbing inconsolably. Her face was wet with tears, and her gloved hands partially covered her mouth as if she were afraid what might leap from her tortured soul. Her muffled words spilled across the bottom of the screen for all to read: “I hate this time of year; my father died on Christmas Eve.” And then came words that stung my heart: “Why did God have to take him?!”

Why did God have to take him! I couldn’t help but feel the sorrow those words placed in God’s heart and the painful void she felt. Her weeping grew more intense as she whispered, “Daddy, can you hear me? Daddy, I need you. Daddy, please help me. ... ” Her pleading to the dad beyond the grave went on; I can’t remember the words exactly, just the pain and urgency.

I thought about the university poll: If there is no devil, then God has to be blamed. And I thought about God: What an image this world has created of Him. How confusing to those in need. We take our innocent children and place them in public schools where they form an image of God as influenced by those around them: God hurts you by taking away someone you love. And another victim of a tainted image of God is born.

Yet I know my God heard this little heart. She may have cried out to her daddy, but it was her heavenly Father who stood by her side. I also thought about the difficulties with which we have bound God. How would He come to her aid without strengthening her belief that her daddy had heard her, that it was her daddy’s hands holding her up, or that her daddy was helping her from the spirit world? If only she could have realized—and been taught—that there is a Satan, and it is because of him— not God—that she was hurting. Then she would have cried out to an eager Father with healing in His hands. And how much sweeter it would it have been for God to be able to stand at her side, knowing the brightness and peace He was about to bring to her waiting soul.

LeRoy Finck President Please, no more innocent victims—for God’s sake.

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Jersey City Members Encouraged to Eat and be Healthy ecently, the Jersey City Heights English church in Jersey City, N.J., conducted a one-day vegan health seminar. Valerie Lisboa presented the health lecture and taught attendees what they should eat according to the Bible and E.G. White’s Councils on Diet and Foods.

Attendees to the lecture were shown how to prepare and cook a variety of meals such as a healthy tofu pizza, a natural cucumber salad dressing, tabuli (salad), and ice cream made from cashews.

The day ended with a presentation by literature evangelist Rogelio Sewell who featured health books and vegetarian recipes. In preparation for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, attendees were encouraged to live by the Literature evangelist Rogelio Sewell Word as commanded in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whether therefore ye eat or presents printed materials featuring delicious vegetarian recipes. drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”—Carolyn Oliveras

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OCTOBER 2005

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300 Attend Women’s Ministries Retreat t is a fantastic experience when we as believers get a bird’s-eye view of the Holy Spirit working on our behalf. How else can one explain the 40 percent increase in attendance at this year’s Women’s Ministries Annual Spring Spiritual Retreat?

It was incredible! Nearly 300 women attended seminars throughout the weekend. Nancy Van Pelt and Sara Orfilia de Bullon blessed the women with scriptural and practical insight on becoming and remaining a woman of excellence. How to remain in Christ Jesus; devotional time; lasting relationships, making Sabbath special; and getting organized were a few of the topics presented. Prayer, fellowship, and music added to the spiritual blessing.

What’s in store for next year? The weekend will feature health topics.

Plan now to be there.—Roseann Metrinko

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Nearly 300 women from across New Jersey, attended and enjoyed this year’s retreat with speakers Nancy Van Pelt and Sara Orfilia de Bullon.

Luzo-Brazilian Church Hosts Screening to S.A.V.E. Lives he Women’s, Health, and Social Services ministries of the LuzoBrazilian Seventh-day Adventist Church, located in Newark, N.J., recently sponsored Cancer Prevention Screening Day. Out of concern for people at risk—who do not have medical insurance—the church opened its doors to welcome staff from S.A.V.E. (Screening Access of Value to Essex Women and Men), a lead agency of the Cancer Education and Early Detection program at Newark’s University Hospital. Along with medical professionals and staff from the mobile mammography

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van, S.A.V.E. visited the church to offer the members and their neighbors several, free preventive health services. These included clinical breast exams; screening mammograms; pap smears; pelvic and rectal exams; and mail-in, fecal occult blood tests. They also provided education about cancer, preventing illness, and healthful living.

The largest number of participants were women—age 40 and above, from low-income households, with no medical insurance— who did not qualify for state health insurance programs. Unfortunately, this group of women is at risk for late-stage disease, and if they do not get screened early enough, they will probably not find effective treatment later.

Thankfully, S.A.V.E not only offers screenings, but follows up with all patients diagnosed with a condition.

The Luzo-Brazilian church located in Newark, N.J.

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They also make sure all women found with breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer—who aren’t eligible for Medicaid benefits—get assistance in applying for hospital aid.

—Zelia DeSouza

October 2

ABC Open, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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ABC Open, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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Pastors Meeting

12

Directors Advisory

15

Jr. High School/ Collegiate Youth Rally

15-22 Voice of Youth Week of Prayer

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Association Board Conference Executive Committee

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English Festival of the Laity-North

New Jersey News is published in the Visitor by the New Jersey Conference 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 392-7131 ■ President, LeRoy Finck ■ Editor, Aura Garcia ■ www.njcsda.org

OCTOBER 2005

Clifton Church Sponsors Lunchtime Ministry for Kids or 10 days last summer, the Clifton Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cincinnati hosted a Free Kids Meal program for inner city kids. The program, in conjunction with Hunger Alliance of Ohio, is designed and funded by the city of Cincinnati to provide free, nutritious meals—and a safe place—for kids during the summer. It is available in many parts of the city where there are kids in need.

The program is usually hosted in public schools, recreation centers, and parks. But recently, the state and city decided to expand their canvassing to area churches. The Clifton church was one of two churches in the Greater Cincinnati area to get involved.

Every morning, the kids were provided breakfast and recreation at the Last summer, Cincinnati’s Clifton church hosted dozens of kids, providing lunch, Clifton public school, about a quarter mile from the church. At 11:30 a.m., 32 games, and a safe haven for a few hours kids—sometimes more—would flood through the doors of Cincinnati Junior Academy to play basketball and ping pong, jump rope, and engage in treasure each day. hunts, etc. Lunch was served at 12:20 p.m., and the kids could watch Veggie Tales videos or enjoy lots of conversation. Afterward, it was back to the gym for more fun and unlimited lemonade.

Most kids left shortly after 1 p.m., but others hung around a little longer. On the last day of the program, each of the kids took home a bag filled with snacks, gifts, and a note extending a welcome invitation to the kids in the community to visit Cincinnati Junior Academy each Sunday afternoon for games. Praise God for this opportunity to minister to our neighborhood kids!

For more information, visit www.cincinnatiadventist.org (picture gallery coming soon).—Sharon Cunningham

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Cincinnati Village Church to Pilot Community Action Ministry he Cincinnati Village church in Mason, Ohio, recently welcomed Gianluca Bruno as pastor and director of a new community action ministry to be established in downtown Mason. Pastor Bruno is a recent theology graduate of Columbia Union College, where he specialized in Metropolitan Ministry. For the past two years, he has been involved in a community action ministry in the New York/New Jersey area.

When a pastoral vacancy occurred at the Gianluca Bruno, a recent Cincinnati Village church, graduate of Columbia Union the congregation reviewed College, has joined the its mission and vision. At Cincinnati Village church in the request of the church Mason, Ohio, as a pastor and the Ohio Conference and community action ministry director. leadership, Monte Sahlin,

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vice president for Creative Ministries for the Columbia Union Conference, conducted an extensive, community assessment of the city of Mason, Deerfield Township, and the adjoining areas. It was discovered that 1.2 million people live within a 15-mile radius of the Village church. The assessment provided the congregation with information on the basic needs in their community, values held by residents, their hopes and dreams, and other demographic information (such as median household income, age, ethnicity, etc). Based on this information, the Church studied several ministry options aimed at serving the community. Establishing a bookstore/care ministry in downtown Mason, with additional services for families and parents, was seen as a ministry that would adequately represent the church’s vision and mission.

In partnership with the Ohio Conference and the Columbia Union Conference, the Cincinnati Village church is optimistic that this new focus on ministry, outside its church walls, will create a vital bridge in communicating the gospel to residents in that part of Cincinnati.

OCTOBER 2005

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Warren Church Hosts Community VBS and Picnic can’t wait to come back for Vacation Bible School (VBS) next year!” Leslie was the first of many children to make this statement at the close of the 2005 VBS program. This was the Warren (Ohio) church’s first attempt to host the summer ministry program. It was exciting for the church to know that this new ministry had been successful, and God had moved in the lives of the 35 children who attended. But there was sadness mixed with the joy. Most of the kids are not attending church regularly. The prayer and question on our lips was, “Lord, how will they maintain a growing relationship with You until next summer?”

God’s answer to us lies in His building blocks of church ministry. One of our ministries is a small food pantry in the church that supplies goods to people in need in our local community. This food pantry has become a main “building block” of outreach and love.

From this building block, the church is building additional ministries.

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Kids engage in water games at the Warren (Ohio) church’s VBS and community picnic.

Last year, church members sponsored a special Christmas luncheon with the food pantry families as guests of honor. Over 100 people attended. When it came time to plan and prepare for our first VBS, these food pantry families—along with the community as a whole—became our target audience. It was decided that VBS would be offered every day, all day—from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.—for one week. It would be a free program with the church supplying lunch and snacks for the 32

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kids, as well as three field trips.

Every morning, the kids had fun learning about God and, in the afternoon, they played at the park or went At the Warren church community picnic— swimming at one of the many ministries targeting the the YWCA. At community—people visit, eat, and enjoy a the end of each variety of activities. day, the kids got together in the church sanctuary to sing and review what they had learned about God. On the last day (because the VBS theme was “African Safari”) they went to an animal park where they actually got to go on an African safari ride and feed the wild animals God created.

The week culminated with our annual church/community picnic. At this event, families, friends, and especially the church’s neighbors, are invited to a big cookout on the church lawn. This year, there was a big, inflatable jumper for the kids and a tank where they could throw balls and dunk their VBS leaders under water. After prayer and games, there was a special service in the sanctuary where the kids showed their families what they had learned during the week at VBS. Vacation Bible School and the community picnic are each building blocks of ministry. But there’s still the question of how these new friends will maintain a growing relationship with Christ until next summer.

God’s answer lies in His building blocks of ministry.

The Warren church family has been building on our relationships with the kids through cards and phone calls. Members are now preparing a “get-togetheragain pizza party.”

Our efforts have not gone unnoticed. During the week of VBS, a parent signing her children up, commented, “Wow, this must be a really rich church to provide this program for free.”

“No,” she was told. “We are a small church without a lot of money. We just focus on a few ministries and give our all to them.”—Kellie Killian

Mission Ohio is published in the Visitor by the Ohio Conference ■ P. O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 Phone: (740) 397-4665 ■ President, Raj Attiken Editor, Bette Toscano ■ www.ohioadventist.org

OCTOBER 2005

Involving Youth in Youth Ministry he challenge to treat Pennsylvania as a mission field means that sometimes we need to re-think and re-direct how we conduct and lead ministry. (See Welfare Ministry, p. 96.)

After careful prayer and study, we have been led to re-design how we lead youth ministry in the Pennsylvania Conference. We have invited Kris Eckenroth, our new conference youth ministries leader, to specifically lead churches in developing local youth ministry. We’ve also asked him to take a leading role in developing ways for youth from across our conference to take a “hands-on” approach to ministry. He will work to accomplish this through various conference and local church initiatives.

One day last June, Eckenroth and I traveled to five churches to meet with pastors and youth leaders. Our purpose was to learn about youth ministry needs and share visions for the future. By next summer, we hope to see teams of youth participating in various ministry activities, such as literature evangelism, summer day-camps in local churches, and outreach and community service projects.

Wendy Eberhardt is serving as our camp ministries director at Laurel Lake Camp, and as our conference Pathfinder coordinator. Under her leadership, we believe the camp ministry and Pathfinders will have a more intentional focus. Both Kris and Wendy bring great passion and dedication to their roles. As we go forward, we ask for your prayer support for youth in ministry.

If you would like a youth ministry team to be involved with your church in the future, contact Kris Eckenroth at (610) 374-8331. To volunteer at camp all through the year, contact Wendy Ray Hartwell President Eberhardt at (814) 938-9300.

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Bridgeville ACS Center Gets Face Lift taff and volunteers from the Bridgeville Adventist Community Services Center (ACS) recently teamed up with homeowners, local churches, and Christian Endeavor (a national, multi-denominational organization that coordinates work camps and mission trips for youth groups) to help rebuild homes impacted by last year’s Hurricane Ivan. Over 320 young people, from youth groups across Pennsylvania, scraped mold and walls, removed mud from basements, replaced drywall, built decks, poured cement patios, did electrical work, and replaced roofs for 75 homes in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Skilled laborers worked alongside the young people, teaching them valuable skills needed for the jobs. The volunteers also spent time painting the Bridgeville center, replacing over 400 light bulbs, and putting new power outlets in a room that will be used for PowerPoint presentations and—eventually—worship services. Christian Endeavor was so impressed with the ACS center—which serves the largest number of clients in the area, and is the only one still aiding flood survivors from the hurricane—that they asked the executive director and pastor, Andrew Clark, if he had additional needs. Clark shared his wish for a bathroom and changing room where homeless clients could shower and don new clothes before receiving a meal and volunteering for a few hours.

Before they left, the group had fulfilled this dream.

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Youth from across Pennsylvania spent two weeks of their summer vacation painting the Bridgeville ACS Center (and themselves), as well as repairing 75 homes affected

by Hurricane Ivan.

OCTOBER 2005

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Seneca Church Opens Café in Oil City il City’s newest eatery is The Lunch Box and Book Bag, a vegetarian café and family bookstore established and operated by the Seneca (Pa.) Seventh-day Adventist Church. The café opened in time for the northwest Pennsylvania town’s annual Oil Heritage Week and has already attracted several “regulars,” including one man who prayed that God would help him become a vegetarian. The café opened the next day.

He’s been stopping by for lunch ever since and is reading a book about becoming a vegetarian that he bought on his first visit.

Church members have worked hard to get The Lunch Box and Book Bag ready for business.

Cabinets were built. Walls were painted. Curtains and aprons were hand sewn. Wood was stained.

Bookshelves were purchased.

Books were ordered. And finally, the menu was planned. The Department of Agriculture inspector, who gave the café a nearly perfect inspection score, said it is the only place of its kind in the entire region.

Kimberly Bennett is the café manager, and there’s a volunteer

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staff of seven to eight church members. Originally from Oil City, Bennett left the area to pursue a career in advertising and marketing.

After 14 years, she wanted something more fulfilling and returned to school to study diet and nutrition.

She’s excited about offering the community a fresh, healthy alternative. Open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., the menu features sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. As the weather grows colder, soups and herbal teas have been added to the selection. In addition, as they try new recipes and ideas, Bennett plans to feature a new sandwich or menu item as the special of the week.

Pastor Alan Dean wants the café to be known as a place for families.

Dean serves on the Oil City Task Force that looks at marriages and how to make them stronger. This inspired him to want to create a resource for families. The café has a classroom, in the back, where the church will offer classes on family topics, health seminars, cooking, “Mommy and Me,” and other topics. They’ve also filled their shelves with books and videos about health

The Seneca (Pa.) church is reaching out to the community through The Lunch Box and Book Bag, which features a family bookstore.

and family, as well as fun books and videos for children.

The café is located at 228 Seneca Street in Oil City, Pa., north of Pittsburgh and south of Erie. Call (814) 676-6567 for more information.

October 2

ACS Tutoring and Mentoring Seminar Harrisburg First church

7-9

BMA Leadership

7-10

Pathfinder Fall Camporee Laurel Lake Camp

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East Side Youth Leadership Sabbath, BMA

November 11-13 West Side Youth Leadership Weekend Laurel Lake Camp 18-20 NCD Implementation Team Retreat, Mt. Aetna Camp

Café manager Kimberly Bennett (left) is excited to offer the community healthy alternatives for lunch. The menu includes wraps, sandwiches, salads, smoothies, soups, and hot teas.

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VISITOR

Pennsylvania Pen is published in the Visitor by the Pennsylvania Conference 720 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 Phone: (610) 374-8331, ext. 210 President, Ray Hartwell ■ Editor, Tamyra Horst ■ Secretary, Daisy Lopez www.paconference.org

OCTOBER 2005

Three Join New Market Church Through Baptism uring the summer, New Market (Va.) church members rejoiced when Associate Pastor Van Sailo baptized three individuals in the cool waters of the Shenandoah River. Roger Philbrook studied with Pastor Sailo for several months before making his decision.

Seth and Leah Guldin also made their decision and joined Philbrook in the watery grave.—Janet Olsyne

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After their baptism, Seth and Leah Guldin (left) watch as New Market (Va.) Associate Pastor Van Sailo prepares to baptize Roger Philbrook.

Kilmarnock Church Holds Outdoor Baptism ver the summer, there was a beautiful baptism for Richard Blackwell and Chris Westberg on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay near Deltaville, Va. About 25 family, friends, and church members, who anxiously awaited

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After the baptism in the Chesapeake Bay, the candidates, pastors, and evangelist—joined by a young member—pause for a photo. Left to right: Elder Woody Pangborn, new member Chris Westberg, Pastor Clinton Adams, new member Richard Blackwell, and evangelist Ron Rogers.

this special occasion, were on hand to witness it.

In 2004, while attending a prophecy seminar conducted by Potomac Conference Pastor Clinton Adams prepares to baptize Pastor and Richard Blackwell.

Evangelist Ron Rogers, Blackwell accepted the third angel’s message. In order to be baptized, he has endured many difficulties, but accepted Christ as his personal Savior and decided to “serve God rather than man.” He was baptized by Clinton Adams, pastor of the Kilmarnock church.

As a young child, Westberg followed Jesus.

However, Satan took hold of him and caused him to go astray from God’s teachings. When he heard the Lord calling, he rededicated his life to God through baptism.—Cheryl Rogers

OCTOBER 2005

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2005 Camp Meeting Highlights f you attended the Potomac Conference Camp Meeting this year, I am sure you would agree that we received showers of blessings—no rain— just blessings! The Lord was good to us by providing great speakers, great seminars, lovely music, and a spirit-filled week. Here are a few comments we heard:

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“Seminars were very good and uplifting.”

“The children’s programs were excellent.”

“Awesome! I was so blessed by all the music.”

“Very inspiring!”

“My heart was touched.”

“Excellent speakers.”

Won’t you plan to join us next year?—Roger Weiss

Potomac People is published in the Visitor by the Potomac Conference ■ 606 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401 Phone: (540) 886-0771 ■ www.pcsda.org ■ President, Dave Weigley ■ Editor, Janet Olsyne

36

VISITOR

05 20 R BE TO OC

Public vs. Christian Education: There is a Difference et all share the expense. Let the church see that those who ought to receive its benefits are attending the school. Poor families should be assisted. We cannot call ourselves true missionaries if we neglect those at our very doors, who are at the most critical age, and who need our aid to secure knowledge and experience that will fit them for the service of God. The Lord would have painstaking efforts made in the education of our children” (Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 217).

How I wish we could go back to the model of Christian education and support that Ellen White espoused. In that model, each individual church was to provide for the Christian education and support of every child within their congregation. Those members who no longer had children of school age would put money into the education fund for the children of others to attend the school.

Unfortunately, Christian education has become expensive, and I believe there isn’t the support from church families to want to send their children to a Christian school. Many times the question is raised, “Why should we send our children to a Seventh-day Adventist school when all we’d be paying for is Bible class?” For many, that is the only difference. I think that is sad; and yet, Seventh-day Adventist schools should make sure that Bible class is not the only difference between us and public school.

Yes, public school can provide a good education; however, we are educating our children for eternity. It has been proven that when our children go to non-Adventist schools, we find them leaving the church more quickly than if they attend an Adventist school. Is Takoma Academy (TA) perfect? Absolutely not. As long as we are on this earth, there will never be perfection. However, I assure you that educating our children for eternity is the most important education we push at Takoma Academy. Our teachers are dedicated to excellence, and most importantly, to preparing students to meet our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pray for Christian education everywhere because Satan is attacking the church through the family, and thus, our young people. In addition, we need to support our schools where C. Dunbar Henri Principal eternity is the most important “class” they need to pass.

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TA Welcomes Bible Teacher/Campus Chaplain akoma Academy is pleased to welcome Pastor Melvyn Hayden, III, (class of 1989) back to campus. A seasoned, ordained minister, Hayden has a comprehensive background of hands-on evangelistic

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work with youth-centered ministries. His professional leadership skills have enabled him to begin new churches as well as to “grow” small worship groups into established congregations. Pastor Hayden comes to us from a senior pastorate position in Lexington, Ky. (South Central Conference). He is a very dynamic preacher, interesting seminar presenter, accomplished musical director, and writer of dramatic presentations. In addition to teaching freshman and sophomore Bible, he will serve as campus chaplain.

“My goal is to re-introduce our students to a personal, loving God, and re-ignite a passion within them for the mission of the Adventist Church,” Hayden says. “I look forward to helping TA’s students get excited about Christ and how He can change lives.”

Hayden and his wife Donna (class of 1989) have four lovely children: Melvyn IV, Adrianna (standing), Cianna, and Brianna. Contact him via e-mail at mhayden@ta.edu.

OCTOBER 2005

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TA Students Take Community Service Overseas ast summer found sophomore Khalea Lester-Wimbish, senior Wayne Taylor, and 2005 graduate Chris Henri working with their hands and hearts in Tanzania, East Africa. Principal Dunbar Henri was also a participant in this mission trip, sponsored by Global Vessels, a charitable organization operated by Frazier Mathis, and his wife Virginia, who teaches TA’s Business Education class. Along with members from the EmmanuelBrinklow, Capitol Hill and Takoma Park churches, our students chose to give up part of their summer vacation to build an orphanage for children who have been affected by AIDS. The entire building could not be completed in two short weeks, but the foundation was dug and laid, and the outer walls were built. This month, another group of dedicated volunteers will travel to Tanzania to finish the job. It was very hard work, under difficult conditions, but what a wonderful experience for everyone involved! We’re proud of the work of our students and faculty.

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TA Sophomore Khalea Lester-Wimbish comforts an orphan.

The group in Ngorongoro Crater Game Park

TA Events October 1-3

CUC College Days

10

Columbus Day school closed

11

Teacher In-Service school closed

20-21

Noon Dismissal end of first quarter

27

Academy Day

Don’t Miss

30

Fall Festival

Student Council Fall Festival

31-Nov. 4 Week of Prayer

TA’s Student Council invites you and your entire family to Fall

November

The foundation and walls for a new orphanage were in place by the end of the mission trip.

Festival,

Sunday, October 30, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This fund-raising event includes games, face painting, a dunking booth, plenty of delicious food, and fun for children of all ages.

There will be a minimal charge for tickets to buy various items supplied by each class. For more information, call (301) 434-4700.

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VISITOR

Damas Manderson, speaker

18

Noon Dismissal

19-28

Thanksgiving Break

TA Today is published in the Visitor

by Takoma Academy ■ 8120 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 ■ Phone: (301) 434-4700 ■ Principal, C. Dunbar Henri ■ www.ta.edu

OCTOBER 2005

43

BULLETIN BOARD Advertising Guidelines and Rates The Columbia Union Visitor accepts classified advertising as a service to its members. Announcements such as church-sponsored events, legal notices, obituaries, and retirements of church workers will be printed without charge on a space-available basis. The Visitor reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or announcement and does not guarantee the integrity of any product or service advertised.

First-time advertisers who are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church must submit a letter of recommendation from their pastor or conference leadership. First-time advertisers who are not members of the Adventist church must submit letters of recommendation from business members of their community or credit bureaus.

Payment must accompany all advertisement(s). We do not bill for classified or display advertising and tear sheets are not provided unless prior arrangements are made. Checks and money orders are accepted. Make checks payable to Columbia Union Visitor and mail together with classified advertisement and recommendations (if applicable) to: Sandra Jones, Columbia Union Visitor, 5427 Twin Knolls Rd., Columbia, MD 21045 and display advertising to Celeste Ryan at the same address.

Rates for classified advertising are calculated on a per insertion basis in our 12 issues. Minimum charge is $38 for 50 words or less for ads originating within the Columbia Union Conference, and $48 for all others. Additional words: 60 cents each inside the Union and 75 cents each outside the Union. A 20 percent discount is given for 12 consecutive insertions (12 mos.), and a 10 percent discount for six insertions. A column ad (classified ad in a box) is $80/$100 for 80 words or less. Ads must be placed a minimum of four weeks before the issue date, the first of every month.

Word count is based upon the spaces between words in normal usage.

Display Advertising: For rates and information, go to www.columbiaunion.org or call (888) 4-VISITOR and ask for Celeste Ryan at ext. 220.

EMPLOYMENT SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks French language professor to begin June 2006. Master's degree required, doctorate preferred. Native or near-native fluency in French, teaching experience at college level, and skilled in technology and current language theory. Preference given to applicants also qualified to teach Italian, or any other modern language. Send letter of interest and curriculum vitae to: Dr. Carlos Parra, Chair, Modern Languages Department, Southern Adventist University, Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370 or cparra@southern.edu.

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, an Adventist Health System 63bed acute care facility located in beautiful Southeastern Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forrest, has various openings for mission-minded healthcare professionals. For current postings, visit ww.manchestermemorial.org and click on Employment or contact the job line at (800) 8728616. Resumes and applications may be faxed to (606) 599-2506.

Contact Joe Skula, human resources director, at (606) 5984510 or joe.skula@ahss.org for further information.

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VISITOR

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS NEEDED Shawnee Mission Medical Center (SMMC), a Seventh-day Adventist community service, has a variety of openings for healthcare professionals interested in immediate placement. SMMC is a 383bed, acute care facility located in beautiful Johnson County, Kansas. This family-friendly community offers a safe and relaxed atmosphere, high quality schools, and easy access to museums, cultural arts, and professional sports teams.

Please contact the job line: (800) 845-6212 or click on Employment: www.shawneemission.org for a listing of open positions.

ADVENTIST JOBNET is the source for finding jobs or finding employees. Designed for Adventist businesses and professionals, we offer a hiring bonus of up to $500 to applicants hired through us. Geared for all professionals-teachers, lawyers, doctors, nurses, etc. New jobs listed daily.

Visit us today at www.AdventistJobNet.com.

LIFESTYLE CENTER OF AMERICA, a premier diabetes medical resort with mission to restore health through lifestyle intervention, has the following job opportunities: CFO, physician, nurse, and sous chef. Submit resume to: Lifestyle Center of America, Route 1, Box 4001, Sulphur, OK 73086.

Attention: Diana Wildermuth; dwildermuth@lifestylecenter.org.

ELTERNHAUS INC. ASSISTED LIVING near Columbia Md., needs a kind, adaptable Adventist personal care giver. Must read, understand, and follow instructions to provide resident assistance with ADL's, cooking, housekeeping, care of plants, and aesthetic decorating.

Position is hourly. Bedroom/bathroom or apartment possible for right person. Call (410) 707-7071 for information.

OPPORTUNITY FOR ENERGETIC GO-GETTER with regional bakery, to sell croissants and sweet goods to markets on the eastern seaboard. Primary duties will include prospecting for new business and developing some existing accounts. Must be willing to travel. Experience is preferred, but will consider solid training. Submit resumes along with salary history to: Human Resources Director, Hadley Farms, Inc., P. O. Box 1000, Smithsburg, MD 21783.

JOIN THE OREGON CONFERENCE FAMILY! Campground Manager and Assistant Campground Manager for Food Service needed at Gladstone Park Conference Center.

Positions require solid related experience. Excellent benefits include medical, retirement, and on-campus housing. Full details, requirements, and application for each position available in employment section at www.OregonConference.org.

MISCELLANEOUS For more information contact: Brad Hoffman Administrative Director of Human Resources (913) 676-2020 Resumes may be faxed to: (913) 676-2019

IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT CHURCH BUILDING or expansion, and want your "sweat" equity to multiply, BARDEN can provide a quality product in a less expensive way. Check out www.bardencbs.com. Contact: Ken Varga (609) 618-8714 or (609) 693-1685.

BOOKS—BUY, SELL, OR PUBLISH We print, buy, and sell Adventist books. Find out-of-print titles fast.

Get your book printed quickly. We do it all. Call (800) 732-2664 for information, or visit our internet site at www.infbooks.com.

FREE INSPIRATIONAL TAPE of Bible speaking and piano playing. (Same tape as offered in previous months). To request a copy, send your name and address to: Moments of Meditation, P. O. Box 1059, Chicago, IL 60690.

CHRISTMAS SALE now in progress! Features big discounts on children’s books, cookbooks, health books, and two new witnessing magazines. Whispers of His Love presents the sanctuary message in a relationship with Jesus, the Lamb of God and our great High Priest. Messengers of Light features the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14.

Beautifully illustrated, free samples.

Ask about quantity discounts.

Call (800) 777-2848.

PREPAID PHONE CARDS Multiple types and rates for the Continental United States and international countries. Multiple types ranging from one cent to 1.5 cents per minute (no connection fee). Consider using these for your missionary endeavors, gifts for students, or travel. Call LJ PLUS (770) 4416022 or toll-free (888) 441-7688.

CONDUCT HEALTH OUTREACH in your church and throughout your community with scientifically sound educational resources by LifeLong Health, a division of Wellsource, Inc. Evaluate heart health, nutrition, health age, and stress with our easy-to-use and cost-effective assessments for fairs. Follow with Eight Weeks to Wellness or another lifestyleenhancement program. Visit www.lifelonghealth.us and sign up for our free Making Health Choices newsletter. E-mail info@lifelonghealth.us or call (800) 862-4395 for more information.

COMPARE PRICES! FLORIDA LIVING RETIREMENT, an active senior community near Orlando, rolling hills and stately trees, now accepting names for one- and two-bedroom apartments. Dining room with vegetarian meals, activities, heated pool, church on grounds, near camp meeting.

Transportation, meals, and housekeeping available.

Conference owned. For information call Sharon or Areta, (407) 862-2646 or (800) 729-8017.

BULLETIN BOARD GOD'S HERBS support the immune system so the body can heal itself of disease.

"When we do all we can on our part to have health, then may we expect that the blessed results will follow ... (CDF, p. 26).

Contact Joyce Trout, herblady@tnaccess.com.

EVANGELISM PRIORITY #1 "If there is one work more important than another, it is that of getting our publications before the public, thus leading them to search the Scriptures." (4T, p.

390). Get equipped for the job!

Call PROJECT: Steps to Christ at (800) 728-6872 to learn how. info@projectstc.org, www.projectstc.org.

'05REVIVE! Join us for spiritual renewal November 4-12. Author and evangelist Doug Batchelor of Amazing Facts, will present 10 powerful messages designed to reach church members and former members alike. Meetings will be broadcast live via 3ABN and ACN/HopeTV. Register now at www.05Revive.com or call (916) 434-3880 for more details.

FIGHT HIGH GAS PRICES!!

New patented fuel catalyst.

Guaranteed to increase gas mileage up to 35%. Increase power and extend engine life.

Nine years of research and testing. For each $1 you spend on EnviroMax Plus, you'll save $2 in fuel mileage. Visit www.koliadko. myextremeresearch.com, ID: 3309701; or e-mail koliadko@telpage.net; or call Dan Koliadko, (800) 691-4503.

BECKER SUBARU has special pricing for members on new Subaru vehicles and used cars. Choose from 300 new Subarus or 150 used cars. Drop shipment available on ordered new cars anywhere in the United States. Call Becker Subaru (800) 671-3636. Ask for "member sales."

ELDERLY ADVENTIST LADY seeking Adventist home in Baltimore-Washington area, as she no longer wants to live alone.

If you have room available, please call (301) 384-8417.

REAL ESTATE PHYLLIS NEWMAN SELLS MARYLAND REAL ESTATE for both buyers and sellers. Call (800) 586-4669 Re/Max Realty Center, Inc. See our Web site at: www.homesdatabase.com/ realestate. This site gives you MLS access by state, county, zip code, price range bedrooms/bathrooms, etc. Call me or e-mail phyllisnewman@realtor.com.

BUYING OR SELLING IN MARYLAND OR D.C.?

A home is your most important financial decision. To obtain the best results in this complex, dynamic market requires a knowledgeable and dependable agent. Clyde and Phyllis Kinder/Weichert Realtors offer expertise, knowledge, and experience. FREE Market Analysis. For information without obligation, call (301) 776-3380; e-mail jckinder@mris.com.

LOOKING FOR AN ADVENTIST REALTOR IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY? I am an '82 graduate of Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) and a 28-year resident of the valley. I will do what I can to make your move here an easy one! I will also donate $250 to SVA if you buy through me or refer a client to me. Call me, Brad Martin, at (540) 476-4503 for any of your real estate needs.

HAGERSTOWN/WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND Relocate to a quality life-style.

Experience country living, beautiful homes and cities, great golfing and skiing.

Convenient to Washington, D.C. Home to the Review & Herald Publishing Association; Highland View Academy, Mt. Aetna Youth Camp and Adventist churches. Visit www.DraperRealtyGroup.com or call Mike Draper / Century 21 MG Realty / (800) 733-2121, ext. 129.

SERVICES

BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC COLONIAL near Ocean City, Md., on 1.5 acres overlooking a creek in Allen, Md. 4 BR, 2BA, 3 fireplaces, 2-car garage and carriage house. $399,000.

Call Charles J. Griffin at (410) 995-1910, ext. 46, for details.

THE CARRENO CONNECTION Mel & Lisa Carreno, experienced real estate agents with Keller Williams Realty, would be honored to help you buy or sell a home in Maryland, D.C., or Virginia.

What is your home worth?

Are you ready for a move?

Weighing your options?

Whether you are thinking of selling, buying, or investing, contact us for a no-obligation consultation.

You can also visit our Web site to search properties or to get free home seller or buyer reports at www.carrenoconnection.com

Mel: (301) 237-1650 Lisa: (410) 905-8282 Office: (800) 757-6199 melandlisa@comcast.net Se habla Espa単ol

MARYLAND ADVENTIST PODIATRIST Dr. Scott Nutter, highly trained, experienced, and board certified, is available in several locations to help your foot/ankle problems, including arthritis, heel pain, spurs, diabetes, callouses, ingrown nails, sprains, fractures, warts, bunions, etc. Surgery, if it is needed, at Adventist hospitals.

Laurel (301) 317-6800; Greenbelt (301) 345-5200; or Columbia (410) 531-6350.

SINGLE AND OVER 50?

The only interracial group exclusively for all singles over 50. Stay home and meet new friends in the United States with a Pen Pal monthly newsletter of members and album. For information, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to ASO50 or EBONY CHOICE ASO50, 2747 Nonpareil, Sutherlin, OR 97479.

ARE YOU MOVING SOON? Before you rent a U-Haul and do it yourself, check our price and save yourself the hassle.

Plan ahead now and reserve a time slot. Fast, direct, and economical. Contact Gary Erhard, Erhard Furniture, 6681 U.S. 31, Berrien Springs, MI; phone (269) 471-7366 evenings from 8-11 p.m., E.T. ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN WHO'S BEING PRICED OUT OF HEALTH INSURANCE? Cut your healthcare expenses in half. Join 55,000+ Christians who share one another's medical bills.

Choose any doctor, any hospital, anywhere in the world. Check out this nonprofit program. For a free guidelines booklet, call (888) 346-7895 or visit www.healthcaregodsway.com.

SINGLES Introducing Adventists discreetly and confidentially since 1987. We have a magazine format with personal ads, plus enlightening and uplifting articles. For information on obtaining friendship, fellowship, or companionship, mail a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: DISCOVER, 15550 Burnt Store Road, #153, Punta Gorda, FL 33955 or e-mail petmoren@cs.com.

FOOT AND ANKLE MEDICAL OFFICE Premier Podiatry Services is eager to help you get "back on your feet." Dr. Rhonda Nelson, an Adventist podiatrist seeks to provide you with exceptional podiatric care while relieving your foot and ankle discomfort. Flexible office hours are available. Office location: Largo, Md.; (301) 773-1199.

WELCOME TO DENTAL EXCELLENCE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH at 831 University Blvd., East, Suite 36B, Silver Spring, MD 20903. Discount program: 10% for singles; 15% for family.

Telephone: (301) 431-1660.

MOVING? Special Adventist rates and guarantees! Air Van northAmerican is a nationwide mover. Whether you're moving a few items or a truckload, don't move before calling Air Van. It will assure peace of mind and a cost-effective move.

Please call (800) 525-1177 to speak with a representative.

ANGELS-AT-HOME CARE Offers our Adventist community home care for recuperating and elderly clients. Our services include bathing/dressing assistance, personal care and hygiene, LHK, laundry, meds reminders, preparation of daily meals, range of motion exercises, and escort service, etc. For further information, call (301) 933-1534 or www.tagnet.org/angelsathomecare.

MOVE with an award-winning agency.

Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Call us for your relocation needs. Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Call Marcy Dante' at (800) 766-1902 for a free estimate. Visit us at www.apexmoving.com/adventist/.

CONSIDERING HOMESCHOOLING? Home Study International is the only Christian-accredited course provider for preschool through college. All courses can be taken individually or as a total curriculum.

Earn a high school diploma or finish a college degree. Home Study International, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600; (800) 782-4769; www.hsi.edu.

Successful Computer Dating Exclusively for Adventists Since 1974

ADVENTIST CONTACT P.O. Box 5419 Takoma Park, MD 20913 (301) 589-4440

OCTOBER 2005

45

BULLETIN BOARD MARYLAND ADVENTIST DENTIST David Lee, D.D.S., PA, has a comprehensive dental office in Silver Spring and in Ellicott City, Maryland. He is excellent with children and adults, and is highly trained in Cosmetic Dentistry and Implants. For appointments call: Silver Spring (301) 649-5001; Ellicott City (410) 461-6655.

Mention this ad and receive 10% discount on all services (excludes third party payers). Our office is a participating provider with Adventist Risk Management.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHRISTIANSINGLESDATING. COM Free 14-day trial! Join thousands and thousands of active Adventist singles online. Free chat, search, detailed profiles, and match notifications! Date chat, two-way compatibility match, 10 photos, and confidential online mail.

Witnessing opportunities to the world through articles, friendships, chat, and forums. Since 1993.

Adventist owners. Thousands of successful matches. Top ranked.

ADVENTIST RECORDING ARTIST JOE PEARLES will be in concert in October at the following churches in Ohio: 10/8-Toledo First Adventist Church @ 11 a.m., 4909 Sylvania Ave., Toledo, Ohio; 10/8-Bucyrus Adventist Church at 7 p.m., 1980 Stetzer Rd., Bucyrus, Ohio; and 10/28, 29, 30 at the Ken Cox Crusade in Lancaster, Ohio.

TRAVEL/VACATION RV'S!!

Adventist owned and operated RV dealership has been helping Adventists for over 30 years. Huge inventory. Courtesy airport pickup and on-site hookups. Satisfied Adventist customer list available.

Call toll-free (888) 933-9300. Lee's RV City, Oklahoma City. Visit our Web site www.leesrv.com or email LeesRVs@aol.com.

HERITAGE SINGERS 35-YEAR CELEBRATION CRUISE— March 19-26, 2006. Join us for a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise featuring special Through the Years concerts and Christian Comedian, former Heritage Singer Pete McLeod. Call Inspiration Cruises today and join the Heritage Singers 35th Anniversary Celebration, (800) 247-1899.

JOIN OUR HAWAIIAN ISLANDS seven-day cruise on Norwegian Aloha April 23-30, 2006. Ports: Honolulu, Kauai, Hilo, Kona, Maui, Honolulu. Early sign up suggested for better airfare. Quality time each port. Folls Tours, (863) 453-7196, 1739 Orangewood Place, Avon Park, FL 33825-7899. E-mail bobkatfoll@tnni.net.

GRANGER (WASH.) SEVENTHDAY ADVENTIST CHURCH is celebrating its 100th Anniversary July 28 and 29, 2006, at Yakima Valley Academy, and a Granger Junior Academy Reunion will be held in conjunction. For information, go to our Web site www.grangersda.com or e-mail patchild@aol.com. Church address: Granger Adventist Church, P.O. Box 460, Granger, WA 98932; phone (509) 854-1132 or (509) 837-4092.

VISITOR

Baltimore

7:35

7:24

7:13

7:02

6:50

Cincinnati

8:07

7:56

7:44

7:33

7:22

Cleveland

7:58

7:46

7:34

7:22

7:10

Columbus

8:01

7:50

7:39

7:27

7:16

Jersey City

7:27

7:15

7:03

6:51

6:40

Norfolk

7:32

7:21

7:11

7:00

6:50

Parkersburg

7:55

7:44

7:33

7:21

7:10

Philadelphia

7:30

7:19

7:07

6:56

6:44

Pittsburgh

7:50

7:38

7:27

7:15

7:03

Reading

7:34

7:22

7:11

6:59

6:47

Richmond

7:37

7:27

7:16

7:05

6:54

Roanoke

7:47

7:36

7:26

7:15

7:04

Toledo

8:05

7:54

7:42

7:29

7:17

Trenton

7:29

7:17

7:06

6:54

6:43

Wash., D.C.

7:37

7:26

7:14

7:03

6:52

OBITUARIES CREAMER, Virginia R., born February 9, 1921, in Philadelphia, Pa.; died June 19, 2005, in Roslyn, Pa. She was a member of the Chestnut Hill church most of her life. She taught Primary Sabbath School for 50 years, loved children, and was very special to all her nieces and nephews. Survivors: two brothers, Lawrence A. Creamer of Warrington, Pa., and Robert M. Creamer of Warminster, Pa.; and a sister Betty Caroline Jones of Palmer, Pa. DRAY, Freeda F., born Sept. 1, 1941, of Haviland, Ohio; died June 20, 2005, in Delphus, Ohio.

She was a member of the Van Wert church. Surviving are her husband James Dray; daughter Cheryl Collert; and sons, David and Terry Dray.

ISHKANIAN, Donald, born February 7, 1913, in Boston, Mass.; died May 5, 2005, in Martinsburg, W.Va. He was a member of the Takoma Park (Md.) church and then Seabrook, where his membership remained until his passing. He served in the U.S. Navy during W.W.II., and was an accomplished carpenter at the University of Maryland until he retired in 1983.

He served as a deacon and head deacon for his church. He is survived by four nephews: Ed Wheeler, Robert Ishkanian, Richard and Wayne Elliott; and his niece Charlotte Ishkanian.

OBITUARY SUBMISSION For information on placing an obituary in the Visitor, please call Sandra Jones at (888) 4-VISITOR or e-mail sjones@columbiaunion.net.

Obituaries are placed in the order they are received, on a space-available basis.

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Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30

SUNSET CALENDAR KREIGER, Shirley, born July 7, 1924; died February 16, 2005, in New Market, Md. She was a member of the Seabrook (Md.) church. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, Sr., and two sons, Joe, Jr., and Michael, all of whom had a hand in building the Seabrook Seventhday Adventist Church. Shirley is survived by son Kevin Kreiger of New Market, Md., and daughter Karen Graham, of Berrien Springs, Mich.

KRIIGEL, Leila, A., born July 2, 1917, in York, Pa.; died May 18, 2005, in Bethesda, Md. She was a member of the Spencerville (Md.) church. She graduated from nursing school (now New England Memorial Hospital) in 1941, and married Don Kriigel the same year. Leila taught nursing at Columbia Union College and was also assistant director of nurses at Washington Adventist Hosp.

She worked as an Adventist nurse for over 30 years and retired from New England Memorial Hosp. where she was director of nurses. She is survived by son Larry Kriigel of Quinlan, Texas, and daughter Becky Koeppen of Burtonsville, Md.; granddaughters, Stephanie Koeppen, Dawn Johns of Austin, Texas, and Kristi Cooke of Colo.; and four great-grandchildren.

MCCREARY, Mary Jane, born Feb. 2, 1913, in Windber, Pa; died April 6, 2005, in Johnstown, Pa. She was a member of the Johnstown (Pa.) church. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Ruth and Bill Moore of Salix, Pa.; grandson and wife Thomas R. and Deborah Grove of Williamsport, Pa.; grandson James K. Grove of Salix, Pa., and step-grandson and wife Edward J. and Kathy Moore of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and three great-grandchildren, Summer and Kevin Grove of Salix, Pa., Mark Grove of Williamsport, Pa., and James Moore of Pittsburgh, Pa.

CALLING ALL ILLUSTRATORS and PHOTOGRAPHERS If you are interested in freelance assignments for the Visitor, please submit portfolio samples to: Kelly Butler Coe kcoe@columbiaunion.net Columbia Union Conference 5427 Twin Knolls Rd. Columbia, MD 21045

BULLETIN BOARD MYERS, Dorman "Don" Lowell, born June 11, 1924, in Jackson County, Ind.; died June 26, 2005, in Chambersburg, Pa. He was a member of the Chambersburg (Pa.) church.

Don served six and-a-half years in the Army during W.W. II. He was a self-employed paint contractor, working for 51 years in the Franklin Co. area. He served his church as an elder and lay pastor, preaching in numerous states and churches, as well as being an active member of the Chambersburg church.

He enjoyed singing, witnessing for the Lord and loved people and never “met a stranger.” Don is survived by his wife Dorothy J. (Coffman) Myers, daughters, Karen Link of Dover, Pa., Paula Hasselbring of Miami, Fla., Renee LockBaum of Chambersburg, Pa.; a son, Michael Myers; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by 10 brothers and sisters.

REUTER, Julia S., born May 21, 1911, at Hazelton, Pa.; died January 31, 2005, in New Market, Va. She was a member of the New Market church. She was a retired bookkeeper for Hadley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. She was predeased by her husband, Joseph Reuter. Survivors: sisters Violet Hunt and Madeline Petrakis; brothers Louis Amorosi and Vincent Amorosi; nieces and nephews.

ROBBINS, Helen E., born June 18, 1932; died February 17, 2005. She was a member of the Berwick (Pa.) church. She is survived by her husband William G. Robbins of Berwick, Pa.; two sons—William G. Robbins of Glen Lyon, Pa., and Stanley M. Robbins of Philadelphia, Pa.; five daughters—Jennie Bower of Shickshinny, Pa., Karen (wife of Charles Stimeling-Taylor) of Berwick, Pa., Susan Marie (wife of Jeff Marshall) of Linden, Pa., Sally Ann (wife of Chuck Evans) of Roanoke, Va., and Rebecca Sue Vosburg of Berwick, Pa.; two sisters—Marie Autosh of Mountain Top, Pa., Frances Sopko of Berwick, Pa., and Ruth Killian of Healy, Pa.; 26 grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren.

ROBERTSON, Aubrey H., born February 3, 1919, in Newport News, Va.; died February 24, 2005, in Harrisonburg, Va. He was a member of the Harrisonburg (Va.) church. Aubrey is survived by his wife Judy and son Danny.

SCHULTZ, Harold E., born February 25, 1937, in Ritzville, Wash.; died March 13, 2005, in Richmond, Va. He was a member of the Galax (Va.) church. From 1964-65 he was principal at the Midland Seventh-day Adventist School in Midland, Texas, and from 1968-1974 principal at the Cedarvale Seventh-day Adventist School in Raytown, Mo. Harold E. Schultz, D.O., was a family physician and practiced in St. Petersburg, Fla., for 18 years before moving to Galax. Harold is survived by his wife Kathleen K. Schultz of Galax, Va.; his daughter and son-in-law Janice and Ron Beck of Richmond, Va.; and four grandchildren, Katherine, Laurissa, and Brittany Beck, and Thomas Harrison, all of Richmond, Va.

VISITOR JOB OPENING The Columbia Union Conference is seeking applicants for a position in Communication Services and the Visitor magazine. Qualified applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in communication or a related field of study and 3-4 years’ experience in print communication, public relations, and/or marketing. The applicant must also be able to speak, write, and edit in English and Spanish.

Interested persons should send a resumé and two published writing samples to:

SPIESS, Lola Annamay, born January 29, 1913, in Napoleon, Ohio; died June 18, 2005, in Toledo, Ohio. In 1931 she married J. Clyde "Obie" Spiess, who died in 1990. She was a member of the Defiance (Ohio) church. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Albert (Louise) Vandenberghe of Napoleon, Ohio; a son Terry (Darrell) of Foster, Ky.; 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

Also preceding her in death were a son, Milton; a brother, Carl Davis; three sisters, Pear Massey, Millie Butts, and Lula Shock; and two grandsons.

Ministry Care Line A toll-free phone, denominational employee assistance program for subscribing pastors, teachers, and staff—plus their family members. Confidential dialogue with Christian professionals.

Call: (800) 767-8837 Monday-Friday, 2-5 p.m.

Monday-Thursday, 8-11 p.m.

A service of the Kettering Counseling Care Center of Kettering Medical Center

For breaking news— Get on the Columbia Union Visitor News Bulletin mailing list.

E-mail: cryan@columbiaunion.net

Columbia Union Conference Human Resources Director 5427 Twin Knolls Road Columbia, MD 21045

Visitor Subscription Information Would you like to receive the Visitor, or are you on the mailing list but have an address change?

Please e-mail: visitorlist@columbiaunion.net or phone toll-free: (888) 4-VISITOR or mail to: Columbia Union Visitor Subscription Services 5427 Twin Knolls Road Columbia, MD 21045 Please include the name of the conference where your membership is held and your telephone number. If an address change, also send your previous address as listed on the magazine label.

If you live outside the Columbia Union Conference territory, a year’s subscription (12 issues) is $15.

Please make your check payable to: Columbia Union Visitor and mail to the above address.

OCTOBER 2005

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