January 2010 Outlook by Lindsay Peterson

Table of Contents Mid-America Union Ja n u a r y 2 0 1 0

Find individual conference reports on the following pages...

Minnesota Conference

Dakota Conference

From the President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Iowa-Missouri Conference

Top Model of Faithfulness . . . . 5 Standing on His Promises. . . . . 8 Central States News . . . . . . . . . . 10 Dakota News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Central States 10 Conference

Rocky Mountain Conference

Note: Central States is an ethnically diverse regional conference encompassing the entire Mid-America Union territory.

Union College 22 Kansas-Nebraska 16 Conference

Iowa-Missouri News. . . . . . . . . . 14 Kansas-Nebraska News. . . . . . 16 Minnesota News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rocky Mountain News . . . . . . . 20

In This Issue ... How would you like three million dollars if

Union College News . . . . . . . . . . 22

you would break the Sabbath? (Just one time,

Adventist Health System. . . . . . 24

maybe?)

Mid-America Blog Updates . . . 25

I’ve never had that decision to make, but when you turn the page you’ll read about someone

Letters to the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . 26

who did. Haitian immigrant Wissel Joseph was

Farewell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

offered a contract in Montreal to model business

Sunset Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

ument would have made him instantly rich. But

Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

suits in Europe. Just signing his name on the doche turned it down to experience greater value in keeping God’s Sabbath. The Lord rewarded him with a fine career in computer technology in

On the Cover:

Columbia, Missouri, where he volunteers at the

Meet the Wissel Joseph family, who immigrated from Haiti and have now found a home and church family in Mid-America. Wissel is pictured with his wife, Mehemie, and his two daughters, Wilhermie, 10, and Wischell, 7. Photo by Jessica Duhring.

church with his wife in music outreach.

OUTLOOK, (ISSN 0887-977X) January 2010, Volume 31, Number 1. Outlook is published monthly by the Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 8307 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516; Telephone: 402.484.3000; Fax: 402.483.4453; E-mail: info@maucsda.org. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Outlook, PO Box 6128, Lincoln, NE 68506. E-mail: outlook@maucsda.org. When possible clip name and address from a previous issue. Printed at Pacific Press Publishing Association, Standard postage paid at Nampa, ID. Free for Mid-America church members and $10 per year for non-Mid-America subscribers. ©2010 Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. All Rights Reserved. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Following December’s feature of Mid-American Adventists serving overseas, this month we are highlighting Adventists who immigrated to the United States and have found a home in our Mid-American churches for worship and ministry. In addition to the Josephs’ story, you’ll read the dramatic, faith-inspiring account of Kris Sisodia’s family, related by his daughter Misha. People all over the world prayed for them, and God answered. Enjoy their testimonies!

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are stock photography. 2

January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Martin Weber, editor

Outlook Staff Editor: Martin Weber Managing Editor/Ad Manager: Amy Prindle Layout Designer: Amy Prindle Classifieds/Subscriptions: Chris Smith Copy Editor: Chris Smith News Editors Central States: Kymone Hinds Dakota: Jacquie Biloff Iowa-Missouri: Michelle Miracle Kansas-Nebraska: John Treolo Minnesota: Claudio Consuegra Rocky Mountain: Karen Cress Union College: Ryan Teller

Mid-America Union Conference President: Roscoe J. Howard III VP for Administration: Thomas L. Lemon VP for Finance: Elaine Hagele Associate VP for Finance: Walt Sparks

Local Conferences CENTRAL STATES: 3301 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66104; 913.371.1071 www.central-states.org DAKOTA: P.O. Box 520, 217 North Grand Ave., Pierre, SD 57501; 605.224.8868 www.dakotaadventist.org IOWA-MISSOURI: P.O. Box 65665, 1005 Grand Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50265; 515.223.1197 www.imsda.org KANSAS-NEBRASKA: 3440 Urish Road, Topeka, KS 66614-4601; 785.478.4726 www.ks-ne.org MINNESOTA: 7384 Kirkwood Court, Maple Grove, MN 55369; 763.424.8923 www.mnsda.com ROCKY MOUNTAIN: 2520 S. Downing St., Denver, CO 80210; 303.733.3771 www.rmcsda.org

Editorial From the President:

Welcome to 2010

by Roscoe J. Howard III

ear Mid-America Church Family: Ready or not, another new year has come to our lives. What does 2010 have in store for you, your family and your church?

One thing is certain: Time brings change. That thought can be scary when we look around us and see the world spinning out of control. Positive thinking is irrational, from a human perspective. But when we, by faith, look above and beyond ourselves, we see God—not impassively preoccupied with celestial matters, disengaged from His children on earth. Instead, He is intimately interested in everything that concerns us. What is God thinking when He sees all the stuff we have to deal with? Is He despairing, helplessly wringing His hands and wondering, “Oh dear, what’s going to happen next to my beloved children!” Oh no. Everything that concerns our peace and wellbeing is under His control. “Above the distractions of the earth He sits enthroned; all things are open to His divine survey; and from His great and calm eternity He orders that which His providence sees best” (E. G. White, Ministry of Healing, 417).

Often we mindlessly pray, "God, bless what we are doing," without assessing whether we are doing what He is blessing!

So an all-powerful, totally loving God is in control of the world and of us all, individually and together as a church. I take comfort in that, don’t you? Having said that, let’s remember that our actions do profoundly affect the quality and fruitfulness of our lives and our congregations. Choices do matter, more than we may realize. We must choose to live in such a way that God can bless what we are doing. Unfortunately, too often we mindlessly pray, “God bless what we are doing”—without assessing whether we are doing what He is blessing! What type of activity can God bless? We don’t have to guess. I’ll sum it up in the motto that defines my leadership vision: selfless service for the Savior. My prayer is that we will all be a little kinder, a little sweeter and a lot more filled with the grace of God to one another. People are really what our lives are all about. Everything has a social context. A Swedish proverb says, “When the blind man carries the lame man, both go forward.”* Although we may be blind to whatever the new year has before us, God’s Spirit day by day reveals the next step on life’s journey. As we boldly press on toward the prize of His high calling, are we willing to tenderly carry with us those who have been wounded by life and are too lame to walk on their own? Let’s make this personal. Who are you willing to lift on your shoulders this next year? And what synergetic relationships will you forge in your service for the Savior? As a church, will we seek to restore some of the broken pieces of our past foibles? Is God working on some things that we haven’t given Him complete control over? Is there someone waiting to be blessed by our influence in the weeks and months ahead? Have we made our homes a safe place for all who inhabit its dwelling? Time kind of sneaks up on us one minute at a time, and before you know it, the kids are gone, the hair is gray, the dog is old, the health is waning and the memory is fading. Are we willing to wake up and say, “Lord, this is Your day. Thank You for letting me be a part of it. Help me fulfill Your purpose and experience Your glory these next 24 hours.” Isn’t that what Moses meant when he prayed, “So teach us to number our days, that we might gain a heart of wisdom”? (Psalm 90:12, NKJ). It really is the small things that transpire each day that impact eternity. Minute by minute, miracles happen. This new year, I want to grow by embracing all the change that needs to happen in my life. How about you? Then let us become fully engaged and engulfed in glorifying God by selflessly serving our Savior. And “may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” in 2010. (2 Corinthians 13:14, NIV).

Roscoe J. Howard III, DMin (can), is president of the Mid-America Union. *From the daily calendar published by The Foundation of Shawnee Mission Medical Center, Nov. 12, 2009.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Editorial All Included by Thomas L. Lemon

esus often began parables with “The kingdom of heaven is like…” or sometimes, “A certain man…” Bible scholars remind us not to make too much of minor details in a parable, perhaps then missing Christ’s main point. But these two phrases, used so frequently, tell us something of our Lord’s worldview.

The worldview of Jesus cannot easily be stereotyped—and it’s not like ours often is. Politically, Christ was not a great conservative in the minds of those around Him. After all, He healed Romans, Phoenicians and tax agent traitors (as well as Pharisees). Christ was no great liberal in their minds either, teaching about angels and resurrection and a real reading of Moses; something no liberal worthy of the name could accept. Only in Luke 10 does Jesus begin a parable with “A certain Jew.” And that story makes a hero out of an untouchable Samaritan, someone no one but Jesus would dare to compliment. Socially, He was not a defender of Jewish rights, nor was He a proponent of class distinctions. Rather, He reminded his hearers (and now His readers) that all humans are children of one Father.

Economically, Christ was as poor as poor could be, while winning both wealthy and working class friends. His message regarding money would best describe it as a tool for bettering human conditions and advancing God’s kingdom, not something to divide people and emphasize distinctions. And for Jesus, wealth was never a power mechanism. Christ’s worldview has to be understood in “kingdom of heaven” language. And the kingdom of heaven is a place where grace levels the playing field; all colors, all races, all ethnicities and both genders bring their faith to the common experience, thus enriching everyone. John the Revelator describes heaven as a place without a sea, which may reflect the isolating barrier the sea imposed upon him on the Island of Patmos. He pictures the Holy City as a bride dressed in splendor, which hugely contrasted with the banal grays of the prison camp he could not escape. John portrays streets of gold, gates of pearl, and foundations of rare gemstones glittering in light brighter than the sun. This may reflect on his being stuck in the perpetual ugliness and poverty of his prison situation. Eight centuries before John’s revelation, Isaiah observed Jerusalem in his day and sadly predicted its doom and demise. But then he looked beyond the rubble and saw the earth made new. Jesus does the same. But Christ, with at least some of His parables, seems to say that heaven’s kingdom is more than our beautiful home for eternity—it’s also much about relationships. These relationships begin in the present, right here and now in our cities, our towns, our villages, our families and yes, especially in our churches. Jesus would be at home with Hmong worshippers, Kenyan worshippers, Koreans, Chinese, American, Spanish, AfricanAmericans and everyone else in the human family He redeemed. He would not take away the wonderful distinctives that make each culture and each language unique. Rather He would work his creative power to make all cultures and both genders into a great masterpiece that could praise Him together so much better than if any one piece was left out. The one thing more than any other Jesus did that put Him on the cross was to cleanse the temple of its lucrative commercial traffic and then declare, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations” (Mark 11:17). Such a worldview made Jesus a marked man who had to be stopped; He had to be expelled from His own temple—which existed for His honor and worship. Christ had to die. How tragic and ironic! When God’s house is truly for all people, when worship occurs in any language and in any Biblically appropriate way in our churches, then truly the kingdom of heaven has begun. The immigrant populations that bless Mid-America Union territory from the Mississippi to the mountains, and from Canada to Kansas, have enriched my understanding of the kingdom of heaven. For this I am grateful. Even when I need an interpreter to speak or hear, my mind and my worship are expanded. So from whatever culture we come—we can be glad we are all of HIS family. “For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26).

Thomas Lemon is vice president for administration of the Mid-America Union. All Scriptures are from the New Living Translation.

January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

topmodel

of faithfulness

Haitian immigrant Wissel Joseph turned down a three million dollar modeling contract in Canada to keep the Sabbath holy. In exchange for that life of glitz and glamour, God provided Wissel with a career in computer science and a loving church home for his family of four in Columbia, Missouri. Here is his thrilling, faith-inspiring story.

was born in the Caribbean island of Haiti in 1971, hours, four afternoons a week. By the end of the course, and my family immigrated 20 years later to Montreal, few of us remained. My specialty was modeling business Canada. I’m the youngest in a family of five living chil- clothes. Prospects for a new and exciting career looked dren from my mother’s side, with other siblings from my promising. The Top Model agency even set up an itinfather’s side. Without Mother’s intercession as a prayer erary for a European tour—England, France, Germany, warrior, the outcome of this story might be quite different. Italy! Growing up, I served in most departments of the When I told the agency I couldn’t travel because I had church. My family is musical; I believe that a good choir a new family, they promised to take care of my family. can uplift God’s people as much as a good sermon. I first If I wanted them with me on my travels, no problem. I spotted my future wife, Mehemie, as wouldn’t have to worry about my Prospects for a new she sang in a Montreal church. When apartment either; they would get me and exciting career I walked through the door and saw a house to go with the limousine they her, my first reaction was “Wow, that looked promising. The already had assigned me. woman is the most beautiful one in Top Model agency even Things were looking better and set up an itinerary for better for me. I heard a professional the choir.” a European tour. After we dated for a while, we designer who came to take my measpent a month in prayer to decide whether to get mar- surements tell someone on the phone about how I was ried. Mother prayed with us. After that time of dedicating going to be a force in the industry. She talked about getourselves to God, we knew He approved our relation- ting me an agent to manage all my assets and my schedship. God has blessed our marriage of 11 years with two ule. daughters, Wilhermie and Wischell. Sometimes the devil Then the world began to show its ugly face. One day has tried to break us apart; but by God’s grace, we have the recruiter informed me that I really didn’t need my been victorious. family traveling with me; there would be plenty of womAfter the birth of our first child, my wife took mater- en available for my pleasure. That statement raised a red nity leave. Life became tough financially, and I searched flag about why my boss was treating me so favorably. for a way to earn extra money. One day on lunch break, I She scheduled my first show for a Saturday night. I was spotted a magazine ad inviting applications for the “Top supposed to have my last practice on Friday. I thought Model” business. People always compliment my style, so rehearsals were always during daytime, but for some reaI decided to give it a try and see what would happen. son, this time it was set for the evening—after sundown. It was a winter afternoon when I walked through that I didn’t know this until my boss called, all excited. door; I found myself in a room full of young men and “I’ve got good news for you! But I can’t tell you over the women, girls and boys, waiting for tryouts. The recruiter phone.” walked straight over to me and said, “Wow, you are all When I hurried over to her office, she smiled and had right!” me sit down and relax. “Wissel,” she said, “I have your She assigned me to a Top Model class that met for two new contract, and you’re going to be very happy about it.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

You are about to have a new beginning. Your life will be changed instantly.” I asked, “What’s this all about?” She summoned her assistant, who handed me a folder. My eyes could hardly believe what I saw. They were offering me a contract for three million dollars. As I stared at all the numbers, my boss outlined her plans: “Friday night, before the show, I have some people from Europe who are coming to see you and start working with you for your next trip.” “Friday night? But, madam, I don’t work or do business from sunset on Friday night until sunset on Saturday. I am a Seventh-day Adventist. During those hours, I spend time with my family, and give God my time. This is His time.” She turned red in the face and demanded to know how I could let a religious matter get to me like that. “Couldn’t you attend church another day, or get your pastor’s permission to make an exception?” I told her, “This isn’t a matter of some other day on which to worship. Each day has its purpose. God created six days to do all other labors, but He had blessed the seventh day and made it holy so we can worship Him.” At this point, my boss issued a warning followed by a promise. “This is your one opportunity! You will never have to worry about money. Your family and children will have anything they want. You can even help your family back in Haiti.” I told her I understood all that, and I appreciated her help and enthusiasm. “But isn’t there a way to have the practice at a different time?” She refused, telling me that it wasn’t my business to decide when to have shows or when to practice. If I only left things in her hands, she would make it all work for me. She already had lined up a lot of people to see me. I told her, “I am flattered, but I’m also very sorry. There is no way that I will work during my Sabbath.” My expression of faith did not persuade her. Instead, she threatened, “Without this, you will never be anything in your life. This is your only opportunity—and if you don’t sign this contract, right now, you will never be able to get back in the business. Ever!” As politely as possible, I refused, “I’m sorry. There is no way I will violate my spiritual beliefs.” At that, she screamed, “Then get out of my face!” I quietly gathered my belongings and left. As I walked out the door and was about to exit the building, the assistant recruiter caught up to me. “If you ever change your mind, call us back because we don’t want to lose you!”

January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

I thanked her, but emphasized that my decision was final. I would not be changing my mind. Upon arriving home, I explained everything to my faithful wife. Mehemie took the news in complete serenity, assuring me everything was going to be fine. “You did the right thing, and God will reward you. No matter what, He will never let us down.” That night, I went to Mother’s place and told her what I had been up to. She was surprised, and proud of me for doing the right thing. “It was a test,” she declared. “There is nothing to feel bad about. God is good and He is alive.” She prayed with me, and I went home. Although I had peace in my heart for doing the right thing, I didn’t seem to have God’s blessing on my fi-

"Without this, you will never be anything in your life," my boss warned.

"This is your only opportunity." nances. If anything, they had worsened. In desperation, I caught myself daydreaming sometimes about where I would be or what I would be doing if I had those three million dollars. I am naturally a calm person; I don’t let things get to me too easily. God has given me a brain and I have to use it. With His help I can get through anything—ultimately, only He has the power to change things. All that being true, however, next month I couldn’t even pay my rent. With Mehemie still on maternity leave, we really missed her paycheck. I had to ask Mother for financial help. Life went on. We just kept praying and asking God for strength. One day at work, my phone rang. A man who introduced himself as Dave McGovern asked me one question, simple and wonderful: “Would you like to work in the United States?” “Yes!” Mr. McGovern said he’d get back to me. Two days later, he called back with a list of five companies interested in me. He already had lined up phone interviews with all of them, one for each day in the upcoming week. I

couldn’t move both me and my family. Only one option was left: Columbia, Missouri. So it was that in God’s providence, we immigrated to the United States on July 14, 2000. I began my work as a computer programmer/ systems analyst. Today, we are still in Columbia and I still work with the same company. Our family has become increasingly involved in our local Adventist congregation. We are active in music ministry—but God’s blessings upon us aren’t confined within the church building. We started a community outreach with our choir. Praise be to God! We are serving Him in our church and our community. With a lot of prayer and advice from good friends, we Wissel Joseph with his wife, Mehemie (right), and daughters, Wilhermie have survived in America, our new country, as (left) and Wischell (center). members of the Seventh-day Adventist world remember rushing out of work during my lunch hours to family. We have many more challenges ahead of us in the make each of the phone interviews. By the weekend, Dave global family of God, but as we serve together toward the called back with great news: “I informed the companies same goal, we can press forthat there are other employers comward. Let us also pray for each Praise be to God! peting for your services.” other as we work and wait for I didn’t know what to think or do. We have survived in America, the second coming of Jesus to Finally, I took a day off to spend in our new country, as members put an end to all our worries. of the Seventh-day Adventist prayer, seeking God’s guidance. I may not know you who just world family. That same day, Dave paged me read my testimony, and you may four times. I went to a supermarket not know me. But we are all bepay phone to call him back. He said that four of the com- lievers in the same living God—the One who always has panies had to back out of offering me a job because they the last word in every situation.

Spiritual Advice from Wissel Joseph There is a saying back home in Haiti: “You may be about to fall, but you have not fallen yet.” God never lets his children down. You may be going through something very bad right now; you may not see any hope. You may even be considering suicide. I am here to tell you that no matter what you have done, no matter what you are going through, it is never harder than the sacrifice that God made in sending His only begotten Son to die for us. Jesus left His heavenly throne to come down and live with us in this world of sin and pain. If you have not experienced a true and direct relationship with our Creator, now is the time to open yourself up and surrender to Him. You may not see Him and His angels, but they are always near you. God Himself is here, next to you. Ask for His guidance and He will let you hear His voice whispering to your heart. Believe me, it works! Don’t fight; just surrender yourself to Him. He is alive! He’s coming back soon. Meanwhile, never feel bad about standing up for God—His reward will always be better than anything the world can offer.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Standing On His Promises by Misha Sisodia

Anyone born and raised in this country has no idea how precious is the American dream to immigrants who come from around the world to this land of the free. Here is the story of Misha Sisodia, a Union College student of Indian/Malaysian descent who moved with her family to Lincoln, Nebraska when her father became head of the local branch of General Conference Auditing Service. Suddenly the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) informed the Sisodias that they must leave the United States. Misha recounts how God dramatically reversed that decision.

ife was good the summer of 2008. Having finally graduated from high school, I looked forward to my first year at Union College. My years ahead were already planned out, with no room for changes. So I imagined my future, blissfully ignorant of the shock that shook our family’s world that summer. July 9, 2008 will forever be remembered in our home. Our visas expired that day, a dead end of what had seemed a successful journey toward permanent resident status. Suddenly the decree came that we must leave the country; meanwhile, my dad was not permitted to go to the office and work anymore! In the days that followed, our family kept hoping, praying that suddenly, miraculously, whatever needed to happen would happen. Life went on like that for the rest of July. I wasn’t thinking much about the situation. As a teenager, who was I to worry about my parents’ problem? Things would work out in the end. They always did. But when August came, I got a little worried. College classes began within three weeks. Could I still go to school? What about those plans of mine—my future? Finally realizing the full import of our situation, I began reading my Bible in earnest every morning. I drew hope from God’s word and my small devotional book, Sons and Daughters of God, by Mrs. E. G. White. One day I happened upon Isaiah 41. God’s words there made me want to jump up and down; they seemed to have been written just for us. I ran to share them with my parents: “You descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and

have not rejected you” (verses 8, 9).* How those words encouraged me! God had taken us from the small towns of Asia and brought us here. He reminded me that I was chosen—and He has not rejected or forgotten me. But Isaiah doesn’t stop there; he goes on saying: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (verse 10). As I pondered those promises, my fears began to leave. I was strengthened by the reminder that God is here; He does care for me. He is helping, though I may not see it. The burden on my heart lifted in the light of His love for me. Yet the Lord still had more to say as I kept reading: “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you . . . for I myself will help you, declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel” (verses 11–14). So God is not only my God; He is my Father! Many times in my life I’ve held on to my own daddy’s hand as we go out; his hand has always been there for me through both the good and hard times. Most of all, his hands have been caring for me. God now reminded me of the same thing about Himself: He will help me; His hand is holding me. As the Lord, my Redeemer, the Holy One, He is all capable! How amazing to realize that the God of the universe— the God who brought all things into existence, all the stars, planets, those massive creations that we are just now beginning to see—this God is holding out His hand saying,

After months of praying for guidance, they would need to decide the very next day how to facilitate departure from this country.

January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

“My child, I am here; just hold my hand.” Such words from heaven to our family could not fail. As the weeks crept by, our family held on to the promises God gave us. In daily family worship, each of us contributed something from our own personal devotions. Promises like these became our theme: “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know” (Jeremiah 33:3, NKJ). “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord” (Psalms 31:24, KJV). “But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold” (Job 23:10). Those promises, and many more, refreshed us with hope, strength, courage and faith. And we were not the only ones drawing on God’s assurances. Friends in our home church and in previous churches, both in the States and abroad, were praying for us. It’s amazing to realize there are so many others praying with you—indeed, hundreds of prayers are ascending to God on your behalf. My mother wrote one day, “Prayers have been the anchor that bound us together, keeping us strong through this time of uncertainty that has shaken and rocked our smooth sailing life in Lincoln.” As we talked with friends and family, we shared not only our struggles but how God was sustaining us day by day, assuring: “I will never leave you nor forsake you” and I “will fight for you, and you will hold your peace.” Heaven’s promises were always there for us when we needed them most. In late August, something happened. Through an “accident” by the INS, my dad was allowed to go back to work and I began college—only a week late. And yet the deadline of January 2009 still loomed as the time we had to leave the country. As autumn arrived, we kept praying and trusting more and more promises God was always giving us, like Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither

are your ways my ways, says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” As we prayed and hoped for the best, we also packed in preparation for the seemingly inevitable move. How hard it was not to think of all the things we would leave behind—not material things but the friends and lives we had made for ourselves. As we looked at options before us, we realized that none of them would be anything like the comfy lives we had been living since moving to the States. With the clock running out, my parents decided on October 8 that they could wait no longer for anything to happen that would keep us in the United States. After months of praying for guidance, they would need to decide the very next day, Thursday, how to facilitate departure from this country. All Wednesday long, my mom seemed to hear a quiet voice urging her to check the INS website again. But after being let down so many times, she felt no need to be disappointed again. Yet the voice kept prodding until, at bedtime, she logged onto the website. After typing in the long stretch of numbers that represented who we were to the INS, she stared at the computer, anticipating more rejection. This time something was different! The screen flashed “Approved.” She yelled for my dad and they both read the new message. Was it true? We could hardly wait until the next day to call our lawyer and find out. She was away for the weekend, so we had to wait. After several days in the limbo of hopeful uncertainty, the lawyer called back with the wonderful news. It was true! The INS had made a 180-degree turn and was now processing our permanent residency. On the next day, October 14, all requirements were fulfilled and we received our green cards. A miracle! There was no other way to see it. God’s promises were challenging us, even as we trusted them. We had been “tested . . . and come forth as gold.” Our hearts were “strengthened, . . . we who hope in the Lord.” Indeed we were seeing “great and mighty things, which we did not know.” In all these things we had conquered, by the grace of the God who held our hands and carried us through. Now, looking back, those words of God still bring me hope and joy. I would not be where I am today without them— overseas, not by a deportation decree from the INS but by God’s call upon my life as a student missionary. The promises I carried in my heart to keep me at Union College also gave me strength to leave my studies for a year and travel to a far off country by myself. And here in Malaysia, they give me strength as I go through each day of new adventure. Every time I encounter a trial, every time something seems impossible for me, God reminds me that He is holding my hand and guiding my life.

Misha Sisodia (right) with her family. Parents (left to right) JoAnn and Kris, and sister, Soulin.

Misha Sisodia, a junior at Union College, currently serves as a student missionary in Sabah, Malaysia. * Unless noted, all Scriptures are from the New International Version.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Mid-America Union News Central States News Youth Lock-In/Food Drive Project by Le’Ana Crittenden

Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

Food items from the youth provided part of their entrance fee for the lock-in.

Northside’s Fast and Prayer Day

of Praise. The lock-in began at 8 p.m. with “open mic” time in the gym, hosted by iGen members sharing their God-given talents. Then everyone enjoyed music together in the sanctuary. Afterward, some hung out in upstairs rooms for other activities, such as watching movies or group discussions. Finally, everyone came together to share their testimo- Partcipants in the iGen food drive nies, their fears and their desires for a closer relationship asked if another iGen event could with God. Some iGen youth presented happen soon. The community bensermonettes for their peers. Adult chap- efited as well from the evening’s yield erons offered insight and encourage- of 350 canned goods. Northside members are proud of their ment. The lock-in ended with prayer youth, who have stepped up and choand breakfast. Much positive feedback came from sen to serve God. He is working through young participants, many of whom them to make a difference in their world. Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

Impact Generation (iGen) is a teen leadership academy sponsored by Central States Conference. The group trains youth to impact their church and community. One recent project was organizing a food drive that also raised awareness of homeless families in the neighborhood. The Oct. 31 event began at Northside Church with a “lock-in,” providing youth an alternative to partying on Halloween. Entrance fee was $5 plus five canned goods or dry food items. Those who showed up without a food donation had to pay $10. Young people attended from many St. Louis-area churches, including Agape, Lighthouse and Tabernacle

Job Fair Earns Community Appreciation by Lee Carrell

by Lee Carrell Elders of Northside Church in St. Louis recently held their annual Fast and Prayer Day. Each elder spoke on one of the gifts of the Spirit, along with sermonettes on the fruit of the Spirit. They welcomed testimonies and special prayer. Pastor Bryan Mann blessed the church with a word from the Lord. Then members walked through the neighborhood for an hour and offered to have prayer with anyone they met—a ministry clearly enjoyed by neighbors. Although the program lasted six hours, no one left early. The day concluded with a feast of fruit and fellowship.

10 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Northside Church created its own economic stimulus plan by hosting a community job fair open to anyone in St. Louis. More than 250 attendees came from all areas of the city and every walk of life. The church stewardship team presented workshops on proper dress and interview tips. Pastor Bryan Mann offered special prayer for the applicants. Attendees mingled with 45 vendors representing various occupations and industries. Many applicants received jobs on the spot. Vendors expressed appreciation that they did not have to pay a fee to par-

ticipate; instead, they were treated to a catered breakfast, lunch and healthy snacks. Some seemed surprised that the church was providing the job fair as a free community service. Many vendors said they loved the fair and declared it to be one of the best they’ve attended. The stewardship team of Northside Church has many more outreach activities planned for 2010.

Central States News The Philadelphia Church community services department, directed by Belle Taylor, sponsored a giveaway of clothing, toys and household items on Sunday, Oct. 11. Many neighbors came and gathered what they needed for their families. While fellowshipping with members, the guests enjoyed a free lunch of soup, vegetarian chili, a beverage, cookies and chips. Sister Taylor is now collecting winter coats for free distribution. Through the generosity of Panera Bread in West Des Moines, she also provides bagels, whole-grain loaves, pastries, rolls and other baked foods to the needy in the church and community. Sharon Tate is communication secretary at Philadelphia Church.

Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

Neighborhood Clothing Giveaway by Sharon Tate

Neighbors enjoying Philadelphia Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s generosity

Philadelphia Church Celebrates Baptism Conference Calendar Jan. 16 Denver Literature Evangelists Training Jan. 23 Eastern Area Convocation Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

Jan. 29-31 Sabbath School Leadership Weekend Feb. 12-13 Pastors' Wives Meeting Feb. 14-17 Workers' Meeting

After attending Philadelphia Church in Des Moines for two years, Ashlei Kennerly took her vows and was baptized last October by Pastor Marlon T. Perkins. She brings her children, C.J. and Brooklyn, to church and assists her mother, Julia, in teaching the cradle roll class. Here, Pastor Perkins reads the baptismal vows to Kennerly.

www.central-states.org

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Mid-America Union News Dakota News Ronald E. Wham, longtime pastor and administrator before taking a medical retirement, passed away in November near Pierre, South Dakota. Elder Wham is survived by his wife, Anne, with whom he had been friends for a lifetime after they met as children in Farmington, New Mexico. Ron graduated from Union College in 1966 with a degree in theology. He married Anne, and they began ministry in St. Louis, Missouri, where Ron interned under future NAD president Al McClure. The Whams’ first district consisted of Neosho, Cassville and Southwest City. Other Missouri districts included Clinton, Sedalia, Nevada, Grandview and Independence. During an evangelistic meeting in Kansas City, Ron assisted as both a singer and speaker. From Missouri, the Whams moved across Mid-America to a pastorate in Casper, Wyoming. Ron enjoyed cattle drives with church members, feeling so much at home in the saddle that he considered himself a cowboy. After pastoring in Aurora, Colorado, Ron served several years as an evangelist for Rocky Mountain Con-

ference. Warmer climates then called the Whams to California, where Ron was associate pastor at Paradise Valley Church, chaplain at Loma Linda Foods and then an evangelist. Returning to Mid-America, Ron pastored in Greeley, Colorado. After a stint in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Whams moved to Bismarck. While in Dakota Conference, Ron served as ministerial secretary, church ministries director, education superintendent and vice president of administration. He found time for an evangelistic trip to the Ukraine with Don Shelton. Ron’s medical retirement in March 1998 forced him to forgo many cherished activities, including flights as a pilot. Through it all, Ron maintained his positive attitude. He assisted Anne with her ministries and also provided technical support for anyone who needed his expertise. Even more than for his talents and skills, Ron is remembered for his personality and quality of character. Besides Anne, who is a Dakota Conference departmental director, Ron leaves behind his son and daughterin-law, Brian Wham and Jodi Quat-

Photo courtesy of the Wham family

Remembering Ronald Wham by Jacquie Biloff

Ron Wham, a beloved member of the Dakota Conference, passed away in November.

mann; his daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Drew Hickman; four grandchildren: Logan Wham, Cheyla Johnston, Drew Hickman II, Daniel Hickman; and sister, Lea Joergenson.

A Recovering Life by Jacquie Biloff “Always remember that God is crazy about you!” So declared Cheri Peters of True Step Ministries to attendees of her addiction recovery weekend in Harvey, North Dakota. She conducted the event upon invitation from local Adventist dentist Marlin Meharry and his wife, Jan. With the support of Pastor Wayne Easley, the Harvey/Manfred/Goodrich district sponsored the community outreach after hearing from local law enforcement and public health officials that abuse and trafficking of methamphtemines are

12 November 2009

Mid-America Outlook

primary social concerns. Peters, who emerged triumphant from a background of abuse, homelessness and drugs, encourages audiences to celebrate life in recovery. When she wrapped up her talk to juniors and seniors at Harvey High School on Friday, Nov. 6, the principal whispered, “Please continue!” Her testimony was more valuable than time in the classroom. Pastor Easley remarked about Peters: “If anyone can reach these kids, she can.” That evening she spoke at St. Al-

oisius Medical Center. Hospital staff hoped for an audience of 50, but more than 100 attended. Some high school kids showed up to hear Peters speak again. After the meeting, someone asked her to speak to a family member who was working at a local bar. “Tell me where it is, and I will be there,” Peters said. She didn’t get much sleep Friday night, but fortunately, Peters has lots of energy. Next morning at Manfred Church, she remarked with a smile: “If you saw me coming out of the bar late

Dakota News

Photo by Marie Pflugrad

ing drunk or on drugs. Peters reported that in her youth, she visited churches but found no one willing to help her. “I smelled like drugs and smoke. I knew I couldn’t smoke in church, so I smoked as much as I could before going into church.” She reminisces that she must have smelled terrible. Nevertheless, an Adventist woman welcomed her into her home. She fed her good food, took her on long hikes, talked to her and rubbed her feet. Peters had never before been touched in a loving way. She had always felt like an outcast. Sabbath afternoon, Peters spoke again. Interest was so great that the meeting continued until 5:00. Nine students from the high school contacted her that day, wanting help. Several remain in touch with her via e-mail and Facebook.com.

Cheri Peters shares her own recovery story at St. Aloisius Medical Center in Harvey, ND.

last night, you shouldn’t have been out at that hour. But if you were, I wasn’t in there drinking!” She then

related her story of life on the streets of Los Angeles, without love or care. She only remembers her mother be-

Astronomy Space Show at Wahpeton Church by Dragos Profir scopes for NASA’s “Mars Science Lab.” Last year alone, Burr conducted 140 lectures while hosting a daily telecast on Loma Linda Broadcasting Network. “Our goal is to help people recognize the awesomeness of the vast uni-

verse,” said Pastor Dragos Profir. “It is our prayer that those who attended will continue searching and learning more about the loving God who created this amazing universe with all its splendor and beauty.”

Photo by Altha Krassin

In October, Wahpeton Church hosted Jim Burr, nationally known lecturer and inventor. At North Dakota State College of Science, more than 200 attended his astronomy space show featuring rare photography of the solar system. Burr’s three-night series highlighted photographs from Hubble Space Telescope. He discussed the connection between astronomy and the Bible, exposing inadequacies of the Big Bang theory of origins. His goal was to provide a biblical Christian perspective on science and astronomy to the general public and educational community. On the last night, three astronomy enthusiasts received telescopes and accessory kits. Burr, 72, is the founder of JMI Telescopes. He has been recognized around the world for achievements in telescope design, having manufactured two tele-

Pastor Dragos Profir (left) and Jim Burr (in white) with telescope winners

Mid-America Outlook

November 2009

Mid-America Union News Iowa-Missouri News

Kimberling City members finish off a quilt together: (left to right) Shirley Banfe, Renee Pendley, Kenneth Lake and Hetty Johnson.

of their material is donated, or purchased at reduced cost. The process starts with Myrna Kahler bringing home yards and scraps of cloth, then designing a pattern for a bag and coordinating quilt. Next, the team of church members gets to work. Between five and 17 children are rescued into child custody from area homes each year. To help meet their

needs, Diane Brown has been working with the CPS in Taney and Stone counties. “The employees are really impressed with the bags and were hoping we could provide bags for all of the children taken from homes. That would be about 150 a year,” said Brown. Anyone interested in this ministry may contact Diane Brown at waltdiane63@yahoo.com.

Photo by Michelle Miracle

Photo by Diane Brown

Imagine you are a child and police come to your home, arresting your parents for making drugs. Then you also are taken away, into the custody of Child Protective Services (CPS). You are not allowed to keep any belongings—not even your toothbrush—since the chemicals used for making drugs have contaminated everything in the house. That scenario is on the rise, and members of Missouri’s Kimberling City and Branson East churches have started a ministry to ease the trauma of children involved. Diane Brown—former conference women’s ministries director and wife of Elder Walter Brown, former conference president and now local church pastor—launched a chapter of “It’s My Very Own.” The ministry provides comforting quilts and matching bags filled with care items and a stuffed animal for children taken into CPS custody. Church volunteers come together to cut cloth, sew squares, tie off quilts, handwrite notes of encouragement and enjoy fellowship. Much

Photo by Michelle Miracle

Comforting Traumatized Children by Michelle Miracle

Elder Walter Brown (left) helps Kimberling City member Emil Kahler cut material for a quilt.

14 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Barbara Hoskinson, Branson East member, presenting several dozen Bags of Love to social workers Cleo and Karen (left to right)

Iowa-Missouri News Junior High Bible Camp by Josue Feliciano Junior High Bible Camp brought together 50 7th and 8th graders from around the conference. They came to Camp Heritage to learn about “Putting [Christianity] into Practice.” Sunnydale Adventist Academy students led through music, preaching and small group discussions. They also managed audio and video. Special guest Ralph Schnell, an Adventist high school guidance counselor from Lincoln, Nebraska, taught team building and les-

Stan Cadwallader shows Dick Duerksen (left) the project chart for the One-Day churches. Each dot represents $25 in donations.

sons from the natural surroundings. Jolene Johnson of Moberly, Missouri said, “The program was well done, and the spiritual emphasis was such a blessing. Those in charge are right on to what needs to be happening with the youth. I could see positive results while there and when we got home.” Hopes are for the 2010 Junior High Bible Camp, “Learn to Live,” to have 100 7th and 8th graders come to Camp Heritage, Oct. 8-10.

Mission-minded Members by Michelle Miracle Members of Cedar Rapids Church, Iowa have raised $7,500 to build five One-Day churches for Maranatha Volunteers International. Stan Cadwallader, church investment leader, invited Dick Duerksen from Maranatha to speak at the church this past fall. Duerksen shared about the work Maranatha does in building churches, schools and medical clinics around the world for Adventist organizations in need. Members are now focused on raising money to send a group of volunteers from Cedar Rapids on a One-Day Church mission trip.

Enjoying worship at Junior High Bible Camp

Photo by Jody Detweiler

“I’m happy to be home,” said Jordan Conrad as he joined Three Angels Church in Saint Joseph, Missouri. Con-

Kylee Kovac (left) and Hannah Saxton, cousins of Jordan Conrad, present special music before his baptism.

rad's November baptism was the first associated with the Discover Prophecy Seminar presented by David Klinedinst of Christian Record Services for the Blind. Conrad had been studying the Bible for the past several years with his uncle, Matt Kovac. When Klinedinst made an altar call during his presentation, Conrad decided it was time for him to be baptized. Now as a member of Three Angels Church, Conrad keeps up his Bible studies once a week with Keith Detweiler, an elder of the congregation.

Photo by Jody Detweiler

Happy to be Home by Jody Detweiler

David Klinedinst (left) baptizes Jordan Conrad after evangelistic meetings in St. Joseph.

Jody Detweiler is public relations officer for Three Angels Church in St. Joseph.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Mid-America Union News Kansas-Nebraska News “Lord, save my family!”—a heartfelt cry, also was the title of an October family life seminar at Wichita West Spanish Church. Guest speaker Roger Hernandez, from Oregon, emphasized the foundation of a Christian home. He explained how family members can develop a closer relationship with God and one another. Attendees received the book, Siete Enemigos de la Familia y Como Vencerlos (Seven Enemies of the Family and How to Conquer Them). One session discussed miscommunication in couples and incorrect attempts to resolve conflicts. For example, the ostrich approach: putting one’s head in the ground and pretending like nothing is happening. Another failed effort is to become

an archeologist and dig up the past. Hernandez also described how jealousy degrades an individual mentally, physically and in relationships. Summarizing family problems and their resolution, he declared that “And they lived happily ever after” is true only in fairy tales. In marriage, the process of blending two lives into one is neither quick nor simple. Pastor Hernandez’s humor was part of the blessing attendees enjoyed as they gained new insight into home relationships. Sponsors of the family life seminar were the Wichita West, Wichita East, Arkansas City and Hutchinson Spanish congregations.

Visiting speaker Roger Hernandez presents family life wisdom to Wichitaarea Hispanics.

Hugo Tovar attends Wichita West Spanish Church.

Breast Cancer Awareness Tea by John Treolo “We’re just a group of church ladies,” Ray said. “I’m a very shy person, and so is Audrey Paulson, so it was the Holy Spirit that helped us to get up front of this big group and speak. It’s scary up there, so the Holy Spirit had to be there to help us.” Attendees enjoyed a light meal, tasteful decorations, helpful information and door prizes.

Website Training Session

Photo by John Treolo

In a continuing effort to reach their community, members of Northside Church in Lincoln, Nebraska sponsored their second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea. More than 125 women attended, including 100 guests—and 48 cancer survivors. Jeanne Ray, herself a cancer survivor, helped coordinate the event. Keynote speaker was her own oncologist, Dr. Joni Tilford.

Photo courtesy of the Kansas-Nebraska Conference

Lord, Save My Family! by Hugo Tovar

Dr. Joni Tilford shares helpful information about breast cancer at Northside Church’s Breast Cancer Awareness Tea.

16 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Lindsay Peterson, help desk technician for Adventist Church Connect and Adventist School Connect, led a website training session in Topeka. Assisting was Lonny Nelson, who also serves at AdventSource. Three conferences were represented: Kansas-Nebraska, Central States and Iowa-Missouri.

Kansas-Nebraska News 2010 Conference Calendar July

January 15–16: Lincoln Area Youth Rally

16-18: Man Alive! Advance

1-4: Family Camp

10-12: Ministers’ Meeting

23-24: Wichita Area Youth Rally

4-11: Junior Camp

23-25: Marriage Encounter

11-18: Tween Camp

23-24: PVA Alumni Weekend 24: Kansas City 1-day Women’s Event

16-18: Camp Arrowhead Convocation 18-25: Teen Camp

Speaker: Michael Ryan 16: Pathfinder Area Bible Bowls 22-23: Wichita Area Spiritual Convocation

30-May 2 : Hispanic Women’s Retreat

30: Conference Bible Bowl

30-May 2: Compassion for Hurting People

Great Plains Academy 31: Pathfinder Honors Fest

30-May 2: Pathfinder Camporee

Great Plains Academy

August 1-3: Teachers’ Convention 5-8: ASI Convention 6-8: Pathfinder Leadership Training

May

8-10: Ministers’ Convention

1: Area Elders' Training

15: Great Plains Academy Registration

12-13: Midland Alumni Weekend

7-9: Union College Graduation

16: School Begins

20: Union Pathfinder Bible Bowl

7-9: Hispanic Youth Festival

February

September

Lincoln, Nebraska

14-16: Women’s Leadership Training

26-27: Engaged Encounter Lincoln, Nebraska

21-23: College View, Great Plains, Midland academies Graduation

3-6: Family Labor Day Retreat 3-6: Hispanic Camp Meeting

28-31: Nebraska Hispanic

10-12: Life 101 Teen Girls' Retreat

March

Camp Meeting

5-6: Kansas City Area Spiritual Convocation

20-23: Environmental School 24-25: Panhandle Camp Meeting

June October

Speaker: Roscoe J. Howard III;

4-6: Camp Meeting

Concert: Echoes of Mercy

13-18: Arrowhead Science Camp

1-3: Hispanic Men’s Retreat

17-20: Single Moms' & Kids' Retreat

1-3: Area Pathfinder Camporees

18-19: Cowboy Camp Meeting

8-10: CVA Alumni Weekend

20-27: Adventurer Camp

8-10: Christian Women’s Retreat

26-27: Conference Music Festival Great Plains Academy

25-July 3: General Conference

April 1-4: Union College Alumni Wknd 9-11: Pastors’ Wives' Retreat 9-10: Enterprise/GPA Alumni Wknd

Session 27-July 1: Basketball/Horsemanship/Aquatics Camp

22-24: Marriage Encounter November 12-13: Kansas City Area Youth Rally 20: Shawnee Mission Medical Ctr Celebration of Thanksgiving

(To keep updated, go to www.ks-ne.org; click on “Calendar.” If you did not receive a Conference Calendar in the mail, contact John Treolo at jtreolo@ks-ne.org.)

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Mid-America Union News Minnesota News Maplewood students took part in the second annual Rake ‘n’ Run to bless their neighbors in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Students ventured into the community with faculty and church members in hopes of surprising some people and showing God’s love through the gift of service. Despite the cool breeze and wet ground, spirits were high as vans full of youth unloaded at their first stop. Surprised homeowners looked out their windows to see 20 teenagers scattering across their yard with rakes in hand. Some stops had been pre-arranged, including three homes of local church members who needed help with this year’s raking. What a joy it was for these members to see the fu-

ture of their church at work through fun community service! Two other houses were randomly visited. One couple offered payment in return for the favor, which was politely refused. Another house had no one home. Later in the week, church member Sheri Vliet was at work. A co-worker mentioned that when she had gotten home on Sunday, she saw that someone had raked her yard, and she was ecstatic. Vleit was proud to say, “I know who it was!” Students worked hard for two hours, but also had a good time jumping in leaf piles and riding in the leaf-packed trailer. Sophomore Tessa Garmaker said she liked seeing leaves on the ground in all the pretty colors. Why rake them up when they looked so nice in the

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

“Rake ‘n’ Run” Leaves Gift of Service by Kelli Vigil

Maplewood students serving their community

yard? But in the end, the leaves did get raked up and made a perfect pile to jump into. Rake ‘n’ Run was a great outreach for Maplewood and a fun experience for students.

Kelli Vigil is a senior at Maplewood Academy.

Hispanics Earn Bible Worker Certificate by Claudio Consuegra

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

Hispanic laypeople throughout Minnesota participated in the Bible Worker Certificate program from Andrews University. Of the more than 40 who attended the 10-day course, 31 completed all requirements and received two college credit hours with their certificate. Richfield Hispanic Church hosted their graduation, supervised by program director Ricardo Norton and Claudio Consuegra of the Minnesota Conference. Also present were pastors Yulian Tinoco, Samuel Bustamante and Eric Juarez. Dr. Norton announced a new certificate in family ministries offered by Andrews University. Many recent graduates of the Bible worker program are among those lining up to register. For information, e-mail Pastor Consuegra: cconsuegra@mnsda.com.

Minnesota graduates of the Bible Worker Certificate program from Andrews University

18 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Claudio Consuegra, vice president for administration, is also ethnic ministries director for the Minnesota Conference.

Minnesota News Cans of Compassion One evening in late October, students of Maplewood Academy and Hutchinson Pathfinders joined other volunteers in a compassion ministry to their community. They went doorto-door seeking donated items to stock the local Food Shelf and fill Thanksgiving baskets for social services. Church members and faculty drove groups of students along a pre-planned route. Many residents were expecting the visit and had items sitting by the door. Others raided their pantries. The collection center was Northwoods Elementary School, where boxes were weighed and stacked. Church members provided hot drinks and cookies for volunteers, with warm words of appreciation. “Knowing you have to give something is a hard thing, but knowing how you’ll feel afterwards is a whole other story,” remarked a Maplewood junior. “It was fun to see how giving people are.”

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

by Angie Shebo

Processing donations for Thanksgiving baskets

A Light to See By sabbath schools hospitals church plants summer camps academies small group ministries revivals retreats places of business community service weeks of prayer congregational worship

Church can happen anywhere.

Mid-America Outlook

| January 2010

Mid-America Union News Rocky Mountain News Friendship Evangelism: A Personal Testimony About a year ago, I was driving to Loveland, Colorado and saw a lady walking along the side of the road. I picked her up, and she told me her name was Violet. Her car had broken down and she needed a ride. After talking for a while, I found out that Violet had recently moved back to Colorado and was looking for a church, so I invited her to my church at Campion Academy. Both of us are single moms, so we got along great, becoming good friends. When I became a single mom, so many people were willing to help me get on my feet and become independent. I wanted to return the favor and help Violet in any way I could. I told Thelma Hufman about Violet’s need for a job, and I believe God opened a job through one of Thelma’s work contacts. Violet has been working for an elderly couple for a year and loves her job.

Photo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Conference

by Tina Bankhead

From left to right: Cathy Collins, Thelma Hufman, Tina Bankhead, Violet Dowty and Pastor Barry Taylor

Violet also became friends with Cathy Collins, who had Bible studies in her home every Thursday evening. Just recently, Violet completed a Bible Prophecy Seminar that we had at our church in October. And now she is baptized.

God’s leading and timing is perfect! I praise Him for the privilege to be used by Him to reach others. Tina Bankhead attends Campion Academy Church.

Kevin Bowen Ordained to Gospel Ministry Honored for Comby Eric Nelson munity Service

Kristen, Jaxson and newly ordained pastor Kevin Bowen

Eric Nelson is vice president for administration for the Rocky Mountain Conference.

20 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

by Gil Jorgensen Photo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Conference

“Youth 2 Youth” program at Glacier View Ranch. The event transformed Kevin’s conception of what it means to follow Christ. For the first time, he knew God had a special purpose for his life: to serve Him. He dedicated himself to that goal. In college Kevin met his wife, Kristen. After graduating, he began ministry as an associate pastor in Killeen, Texas. It became clear to him that God had entrusted him with a heart for young people. In summer 2009, Kevin took the opportunity to return home to Colorado as youth and young adult pastor at Boulder Seventh-day Adventist Church. Kevin and Kristen are celebrating the birth of their first child, Jaxson Everett.

Photo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Conference

Pastor Kevin Bowen, now ordained to gospel ministry, was third of four children in an Adventist family. He developed a boisterous spirit that earned him a fair amount of trouble at home and in school. Then in his teens he attended a

Dr. James Dunn, longtime member of Grand Junction Church, was honored for service to his community by Loma Linda School of Medicine during its 100th anniver- Dr. James and Mary Lou Dunn sary weekend. Twice a month for 30 years, Dr. Dunn flew his airplane to LaVida Mission in New Mexico to provide medical services. He was one of three selected for their years of humble service to their communities and churches. Gil Jorgensen attends Grand Junction Church.

Rocky Mountain News Out of the Darkness by Mariah Edwards the third highest among teens and young adults. An estimated 800,000 from among all races, ages and living situations attempt to end their lives

each year. The youth of Colorado Springs Central Church have committed themselves to do something about it. In partnership with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, they sponsored an “Out of the Darkness Walk” to raise money for education, research, awareness and programs to support survivors of suicide attempts. The event at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs drew more than 50 community participants, who joined the Adventist youth on a three-mile walk around Prospect Lake. The event doubled its goal by raising nearly $6,000.

Photo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Conference

Difficult times often get worse during the holidays, as reflected in the rising rate of suicides—now America’s 11th leading cause of death and

Mariah Edwards is a member of Colorado Springs Central Church.

Youth of Colorado Springs Central Church raise community awareness and funding for suicide prevention with their “Out of the Darkness Walk.”

Photo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Conference

Learn to Share Jesus in Bible Studies

Winterfest 2010

Several years ago, Beverly Kamerzell felt depressed and helpless. Her brother Paul, an Adventist, knew she needed the Lord. Beverly reluctantly agreed to his suggestion of Bible studies. Peace and joy soon replaced anxiety, and she was baptized. Seeing the difference in Beverly’s life, her family has begun Bible studies in preparation for baptism. Pictured (center) is Karen Lewis of Rocky Mountain Conference, surrounded (left to right) by Beverly’s husband, Mike; son, Michael; and daughter-in-law Alisha.

Rocky Mountain Conference and Adventist Health Systems invite you to attend a spiritual, funpacked weekend. When: March 5-6, 2010 Where: Summit High School, Frisco, CO Time: Friday 7 p.m.–9:30p.m. Sabbath 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

To learn how to share Jesus in an easy, non-threatening way, plan to attend a free 16-week workshop for lay Bible worker training. Held at Chapel Haven Church in Northglenn, Colorado, it begins Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. Each class thereafter meets on Wednesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. You will receive a free training manual, as well as comprehensive step-by-step training for the tools and confidence needed to share Jesus in a winsome, practical way. “Lifting up Jesus” study guides will be used. Class presenter is Karen Lewis, director of lay Bible worker training for Rocky Mountain Conference. She has facilitated training on behalf of It is Written telecast, the North American Division and at various camp meetings. For more information, contact Karen at 303.282.3620 or Chapel Haven Church at 303.451.1800. To access relational Bible studies for adults and children, visit www.liftingupjesus.net.

Cost: Entirely FREE For Whom: Youth, Young Adults and those Young at Heart! Free Food / Basketball 1 on 1 / Dodgeball

For discount lift tickets, rentals, lodging and programming information visit www.adventistwinterfest.org or call RMC Youth Ministries at 303.282.3660.

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Mid-America Union News Union College Home Away from Home: Finding a Family at Union College

22 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

“God,” she prayed. “Whoever responds first, that’s where I’ll go to school.” She completed the application and sent all the appropriate paperwork to both schools. At the same time, her continued email correspondence with Pastor Rich led her to a financial counselor at Union. Within one week, Union responded to her application and began the enrollment process. “Every week they emailed me,” she remembered. “I got an email from Dr. Smith [president of Union College]. I received phone calls and emails from different people on campus. I got the feeling that they really wanted me to come to Union.” Liza’s parents, both graduates of foreign universities in the United Kingdom and the United States had never seen a college respond in this way. “You are going to Union,” her father said.

Counting the Costs International students like Liza often find the answer to their prayers in the form of institutional policies that treat them equally, regardless of their residence or citizenship. As a foreign citizen, Liza is not eligible to apply for the grants and loans available to U.S. students, often the only financial assistance offered by public universities. Not only is financial aid unavailable, they also pay non-resident tuition. Without state-subsidized rates, most public universities are more expensive than Union, and out of the reach of students from developing nations. Union College’s finanPhoto courtesy of Union College

Liza Ngenya has set lofty goals for herself. After the sophomore communication major graduates from Union, she plans to attend law school in a British Commonwealth member state, such as Australia or Canada, and then return to her native Kenya. Liza hopes to someday represent the people of her country who have been oppressed by corruption. “I can go back and be a voice for people who don’t have a voice,” she said. For Liza, Union isn’t just a steppingstone in her life plan, it’s a model for a career of service. “God has given me this experience at Union as a gift,” she said. “I don’t want to just go on with my life.” Like so many students, Liza’s choice of Union College was a matter of prayer. The answer came in the form of affordable tuition, strong academic programs, a spiritually nurturing environment and timely e-mails. “My mother really wanted me to go to an Adventist university,” said Liza, who spent her formative years at private schools operated by American and the British organizations. “I wanted to go to a public university because I felt I had missed out on something.” Finally they reached a compromise. Liza could go to any Adventist college for one year. If she didn’t like it, her parents would allow her to attend any school she chose. While she narrowed the field of options, Union College rose to the top of the list because of two visits to Kenya by Pastor Rich Carlson, vice president for spiritual life at Union. “He was friendly, open and nonjudgmental,” she remembered. “He was the face of Union for me.” Eventually her decision came down to Union and one other Adventist college in the U.S., because they offered similar financial assistance packages.

Liza Ngenya, sophomore communication major from Kenya, found Union College more affordable than most public universities in the U.S.

cial assistance is available to all students, regardless of citizenship and residency. Students can qualify for scholarships of up to $10,000 the first year and up to $5,000 in subsequent years based on academic performance. These scholarships, coupled with lower tuition than many public universities, make Union a viable option for international students. Liza qualified for a $7,000 scholarship her freshman year because of her grade point average, making her tuition about $9,000 less than if she attended the University of Nebraska. Liza also found the cost of living to be higher at many public universities, something she said financial aid counselors often don’t take into account. “At Union, they put it all together and developed a financial aid package that makes sense,” she explained. “I think it’s a better deal.” According to Pastor Carlson, Union’s openness to international students is part of the school’s mission. “We are part of Mid-America, but we serve a

Union College global church,” he said. “During my years at Union, I’ve seen so many students come here and develop as Christcentered leaders, and those are the sort of people needed in every country.” Even though Liza fulfilled her promise to try an Adventist school, the topic of switching to another college didn’t come up during the summer following her first year. “We never discussed it,” Liza said. “I know Union is where I want to be.”

pus family has influenced her spiritual growth. “When the campus ministries programs are run by students, it is more comfortable to take a spiritual journey together,” she said. Because of her experience at Union, Liza plans to go with God wherever her goals take her. “I made the choice to grow closer to God,” she said. “That’s why I’m a Seventh-day Adventist today. Union has helped me make that decision.”

Union’s Tuition Lower Than Public Universities In October, the New York Times detailed the decrease in state funding to public colleges and the resulting tuition increases. According to their data, Union’s tuition rates are lower than the non-resident rates of many public universities. In addition to lower tuition rates, Union offers merit scholarships that are available to all students and may significantly lower costs.

Why Stay At Union? “It’s the sense of family and belonging,” Liza explained. “I’m an only child. My parents were concerned about sending me so far away with no family to look after me.” She soon found family in her teachers and classmates at Union. “Everyone has been like my brothers and sisters,” Liza said. “My teachers are always there for me. They are constantly checking on me and making sure I’m learning and growing, both academically and spiritually. I’ve never had that in my whole education experience.” In addition to providing academic and social opportunities, Liza’s cam-

Campus Calendar

Tuition Rates for 2009-2010 These rates represent non-resident tuition at universities within the Mid-America Union and do not include books or living expenses.

Jan. 28–30

Preview Days

Feb. 26–28

Engaged Encounter

University of Wyoming (Laramie) $11,646

March. 4–6

Preview Days

March 25–27

University of North Dakota (Grand Forks) $15,845

April 1–4

Union College $16,930

Preview Days

Homecoming Weekend

University of Nebraska (Lincoln) $17,988 University of Kansas (Lawrence) $18,097

D ea dl Ap in e: plic Fe at br ion ua ry Sponsored by Union College Campus Ministries 19

University of Missouri (Columbia) $20,532

Engaged Encounter

University of Iowa (Iowa City) $22,198

Feb. 26-28, 2010

Engaged couples are invited to spend a weekend developing communication skills in the context of a Christ-centered relationship. For information contact Stan and Angie Hardt at 402.423.2896 or anhardt@ucollege.edu.

University of Minnesota (Twin Cities) $22,647

Held at Mid-America Union office building: 8307 Pine Lake Rd. Lincoln, Nebraska

University of Colorado (Boulder) $28,168 Fain, Paul (2009, October 26). At Public Universities: Less for More [Electronic Version] New York Times.

Mid-America Outlook

| January 2010

Adventist Health System

A Partnership for Peru

Church

Joins

Hospitals

Medical

Mission

Effort

24 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

Photo courtesy of CMBell Company

embers of a Denver-area Seventh-Day Adventist church felt the call of God to make an impact far outside their comfort zone. Healthcare volunteers from Colorado’s four Adventist hospitals sought to extend the ministry of Christ on a global scale. How both groups joined together to offer hope and healing in the Peruvian rainforest is an inspiring story of partnership and commitment. The scene is Iquitos, Peru, a bustling city of almost 400,000 located about 1,800 miles up the Amazon River. You can’t get there by road—only boats and planes connect it to the outside world. But despite its inaccessibility, volunteer medical teams from Porter, Parker, Avista and Littleton Adventist hospitals have been going there since 2006 as part of their International Medical Mission program. Using Iquitos as a base, the hospital outreach teams offer healthcare within the city and to villages located up and down the Amazon. Through its long-term commitment to the region, the program has made a significant impact, but until 2009 had been primarily medical in focus. That was before Greg Hodgson, director of Global Health Initiatives for Colorado’s Adventist hospitals, received a phone call. It was Dave Kennedy on the line, lead pastor of Newday Christian SDA Church, with locations in Parker and Franktown, Colorado. Through serving as chaplain on earlier hospital trips to Iquitos, he had seen the needs firsthand. Now he thought the city might be the perfect destination for a volunteer church group he was putting together. For Hodgson, it didn’t take much convincing. “On a hospital-sponsored trip, we focus on providing excellent medical care to as many as possible,” he says. “To have a church offer to come alongside as a spiritual partner sounded like a fantastic opportunity.” When Kennedy presented the concept to his church members, he was surprised by the response. “People were so excited to go. It was amazing,” he recalls. He divided the participants into four groups—a medical team, a well-drilling team, a team to work with children and a preaching team. After landing in Iquitos, the group of 57 pulled their equipment and luggage down a muddy jungle path to primitive lodging in a camp outside the city. Though the hospital and church trips didn’t coincide, Kennedy’s church group was able to build on the healthcare ministry that had preceded their visit. By the end of the two-week visit, about 800 patients had been seen, three wells started and hundreds of people in-

Near Iquitos, Peru, mission trip volunteers from Colorado board the boat that will take them to their primitive campsite three hours down the Amazon River.

troduced to Jesus. Looking back, the highlight for Kennedy came when a young Colorado woman asked to be baptized in a nearby lagoon. “She wanted God to use her public commitment to speak to others, and He did—17 people from villages we had served were baptized along with her,” the pastor says. Since the group’s return home, it’s been one of the stories told and retold to rapt church audiences. Kennedy expects the ripple effect of the trip to create new opportunities for similar ventures. “People are still talking about it, and none of this would have been possible without the hospital partnership,” he says. A trip is already being planned for Rwanda in 2010 and another back to Peru in 2011. For Hodgson, future hospital/church collaborations are an exciting prospect, and another Denver church has already asked to participate. “Together, not only are we offering health and healing, but we’re leading people to Christ,” he says. “It’s a life-changing experience for everyone involved.” This article was submitted by Stephen King, senior vice president for mission and ministry for Colorado’s Adventist hospitals, and written by CMBell Company.

Claudio Consuegra

Amy Prindle

What Our Bloggers are Saying

www.midamericaadventist.org

Jim Moon

Seth Pierce

Jeff Wines

Correspondence

Letters to the

Editor

Due to an abundance of news and feature stories, compounded by limitations on number of pages (rising costs; frozen budget), we haven’t published letters to the editor for a couple of months. During that time we received several letters concerning the theme of jewelry, expressing similar sentiments in one way or another to letters we’ve already published.

I appreciate the new candor in Outlook and the emphasis on searching out reasons why Adventists leave the church, as well as other issues of importance. –Mark S. Roalson E-mailed We should not support or promote pagan holidays. It is sad to see the majority of Adventists, including the Outlook editor, not want to let go of traditional fun-filled pagan holidays like Easter, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and—sorry to say—many of them flirt with Halloween. Christ told us in Rev. 18:4 to “come out of Babylon, My people, that we partake not of her sins.” God’s children are not allowed to make compromises. How do you think God would react if He were to come amongst us and had to compete with all this idolatry? –Waldemar Leonhardt St. Paul, MN Editor’s note: You and I certainly agree that God’s people must not tolerate idolatry of any kind. And He shouldn’t have to compete for our attention during the holiday season, or any other time of the year. As for the pagan origin of holidays, let’s remember that Christ overcame the world, the flesh and the devil. That victory happened on the cross—which actually had been the ultimate cursed pagan symbol. Yet He turned that pagan cross into the symbol of our salvation, so that we read in the Bible: “God forbid that I should glory, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” So let the world carry on with its “fun-filled pagan holidays” and their abominations; we will glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amazing grace that triumphs over evil! God exercises His sovereign right of eminent domain, displacing the

26 January 2010

Mid-America Outlook

devil from pagan symbols and holidays and transforming them into memorials of His salvation. For all who are willing to turn away from the world (e.g., Santa Claus selfishness and Easter bunny follies) and seek the Lord’s presence, they will discover His influence everywhere. Despite the fact that “the whole world lies in wickedness,” it’s still true that “the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” Where sin abounds, grace much more abounds. No wonder then that the most beautiful Christian music ever written is said to be Christmas music. Please also remember that unsaved neighbors are more willing to attend church and come to Christ during the holidays than at any other time of the year. To connect with them, we need to be in touch with cultural traditions—without being compromised—and show how Jesus is Lord of all, including our holidays. By the way, Waldemar, this morning I got your new book from Pacific Press: The War Within (available at www.adventistbookcenter.com), with your story of deliverance from Nazi Germany and pilgrimage to America. We are delighted to have you in our Mid-America Adventist family. Although you and I disagree on some things, we are united in our passion and purpose to see the cause of God prevail and evil of all kinds defeated.

Thank you, Martin for your insightful and thoughtprovoking editorials. I look forward with great anticipation to reading each one and passing them on for others to think about. Also your responses to letters of concern and differences of opinion are so kind and well spoken while getting your point across. And your website www. sdaforme.org is presented in a way that represents the loving attitude of Christ. Thank you so much for what you do. –Ron Johnson Grand Junction, CO

We invite your written reflections, both positive and negative. E-mail: martin@midamericaoutlook.org, or write to: Editor of Outlook, c/o Mid-America Union Office, P.O. Box 6128, Lincoln, NE 68506

Information Information Farewell Obituaries may be submitted via your conference communication director. To submit directly to Outlook, e-mail outlook@ maucsda.org or send to Outlook, PO Box 6128, Lincoln, NE 68506. All obituary submissions must be typewritten to ensure clarity and accuracy.

Chipman, Harold G., b. April 16, 1912, in Belden, NE, d. Jan. 12, 2009, in Garden City KS. Longtime member and elder of Burlington Church. Survived by daughters, Clarian G. Chipman-Green, Karen L. Chipman-Peterson, and Jackie A. Chipman; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Axelson, Conrad (Connie), b.

dren; and two great-grandchildren.

Hallifax, Robert Jeffrey, b. July

Compton-Hansen, Maryann, b.

26, 1926, in Takoma Park, MD, d. Oct. 20, 2009, in Shawnee, KS. Worked in the Adventist Health System and retired from Shawnee Mission Medical Center. Member of New Haven Church. Survived by daughter, Denise Beatty; son, Rob; and four grandchildren.

Aug. 4, 1935, in Lincoln, NE, d. Oct. 23, 2009, in Kearney, NE. Served as a Literature Evangelist and as a representative for Christian Record Services. Member of Grand Island Church. Survived by wife, Mary; daughter, Connie Johnson; sons, Kenneth and Kevin; five grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Dec. 4, 1955, d. March 6, 2009. Member of Springfield Church. Survived by mother, Eva Compton; husband, Peter Hansen; son, Neil Sade; daughter, Emily Smith; step-children, Nathan Hansen and Sierra Hansen; brother, Gary Compton; sisters, Loretta Compton, Katherine Young and Joetta Jones; and two grandchildren.

Hoffman, Arnold, b. March 9, 1917, in Carrington, ND, d. Aug. 6, 2009, near Stewardson, IL. Member of Mattoon Church. Survived by wife of 64 years, Mabel; daughter, Barbara Figgins; sons, Norman and Kimber Hoffman; sister, Emma Hegney; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Buechner, Charles J., b. March.

Geerts, Wayne Kenneth, b. Sept.

14, 1911, in Topeka, KS, d. Oct. 22, 2009, in Topeka. Member of Wanamaker Church. Survived by daughter, Sharon Oster; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

18, 1934, d. Nov. 1, 2009, in Davenport, IA. Member of Davenport Church. Survived by wife, Diane; daughter, Linda Jacobs; son, Wayne Jr.; brother, James; three grandchil-

Lauritzen, Barry Jon, b. July 24, 1958, in Minneapolis, MN, d. Oct. 23, 2009, in St. Louis Park, MN.

Member of Minnetonka Church. Preceded in death by father, Adrian Lauritzen. Survived by mother, Evelyn; and brother, Jeffrey and his family.

McCartney, Julie L (van Vleet), b. April 22, 1961, in Lawton, OK, d. Oct. 16, 2009, in Pueblo, CO. Member of Sterling Church. Survived by husband, Dave A.; daughter, Sarah; son, David E.; Sister, Valerie Tibbetts; brother, Jeff Keyes; mother, Carolyn Morser; and one grandchild.

Wham, Ronald E., b. July 6, 1944, d. Nov. 2009, near Pierre, SD. Member of Pierre Church and employed by the church for a number of years. (See page 14 for more info.) Survived by wife, Anne; son, Brian; daughter, Lisa Hickman; four grandchildren; and sister, Lea Joergenson.

Colorado Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Sunset Calendar Denver 6:00 4:52 4:46

Colorado Grand Junction Pueblo Denver Grand Iowa Junction Pueblo Davenport Iowa Des Moines Sioux City Davenport Des Moines Kansas Sioux DodgeCity City Kansas Goodland Topeka City Dodge Wichita Goodland Topeka Minnesota Wichita Duluth Minnesota International Falls Minneapolis Duluth International Falls Missouri Minneapolis Columbia Missouri Kansas City Columbia Springfield Kansas City St. Louis Springfield Nebraska St. Louis Grand Island Nebraska Lincoln Grand North Island Platte Lincoln Scottsbluff North North Platte Dakota Scottsbluff Bismarck North Fargo Dakota Bismarck Williston Fargo South Dakota Williston Pierre South RapidDakota City Pierre Sioux Falls Rapid City Wyoming Sioux Falls Casper Wyoming Cheyenne Casper Sheridan Cheyenne Sheridan

Jan. 1 6:15 6:01 4:46 5:03 4:49 5:59 6:11 6:21 4:43 4:55 5:03 6:43 5:48 6:24 5:32 6:33 4:34 5:11 5:22 5:55 5:57 6:04 4:31 4:29 4:42 6:10 6:19 4:57 6:17 5:07 6:03 5:07 4:51 6:31 6:25 5:16 6:41 5:10 5:51 5:25 4:34 6:30 6:14 5:06 6:38 4:49 5:12 6:33 5:45 5:13 6:20 4:25 5:01 6:00 5:57 4:42 5:59 4:41 4:38

Jan. 8 5:08 4:54 4:53 5:09 4:55 4:51 5:03 5:12 4:50 5:02 5:10 5:36 4:40 5:16 5:38 5:25 4:41 5:17 5:28 4:45 4:46 4:54 4:38 4:37 4:50 5:03 5:12 5:04 5:10 5:13 4:55 5:13 4:57 5:23 5:17 5:23 5:33 5:16 4:43 5:32 4:41 5:20 5:04 5:13 5:28 4:57 5:19 5:24 4:36 5:20 5:11 4:32 5:08 4:50 4:49 4:49 4:49 4:48 4:45

Jan.5:01 15 4:47 5:00 5:16 5:02 4:44 4:56 5:05 4:57 5:09 5:18 5:30 4:33 5:10 5:45 5:19 4:48 5:25 5:35 4:36 4:36 4:36 4:47 4:46 4:58 4:56 5:05 5:11 5:04 5:20 4:49 5:20 5:04 5:16 5:10 5:30 5:26 5:24 4:35 5:39 4:49 5:11 4:55 5:22 5:18 5:06 5:28 5:16 4:28 5:28 5:04 4:41 5:16 4:44 4:42 4:57 4:41 4:55 4:55

Nov. 20 4:41 Jan.4:56 22 4:43 5:08 5:24 5:10 4:38 4:50 4:59 5:06 5:18 5:27 5:25 4:28 5:05 5:53 5:15 4:56 5:32 5:42 4:29 4:28 4:40 4:57 4:56 5:07 4:51 5:00 5:19 5:00 5:28 4:44 5:27 5:12 5:11 5:05 5:38 5:20 5:32 4:30 5:48 4:57 5:04 4:48 5:32 5:11 5:15 5:39 5:10 4:22 5:37 4:57 4:50 5:25 4:38 4:36 5:05 4:35 5:04 5:02

Mid-America Outlook

Nov. 27 4:37 Jan.4:53 29 4:40 5:16 5:32 5:18 4:35 4:47 4:55 5:14 5:27 5:36 5:22 4:25 5:02 6:00 5:12 5:04 5:40 5:50 4:24 4:23 4:35 5:07 5:07 5:17 4:48 4:57 5:27 4:57 5:36 4:41 5:35 5:20 5:07 5:01 5:47 5:16 5:40 4:26 5:56 5:06 4:59 4:42 5:42 5:05 5:26 5:50 5:05 4:17 5:47 4:53 4:59 5:34 4:34 4:32 5:14 4:30 5:12 5:12

January 2010

Information Classifieds Advertising Policy Classiﬁed ads must be submitted with approval from your local conference or pastor. Ads may be e-mailed, faxed or typewritten. Outlook does not accept responsibility for categorical or typographical errors. Display ad information available at www.midamericaadventist.org or 402.484.3028. Pricing: Inside Mid-America $25 for first 50 words, 35¢ each additional word. Outside Mid-America

$35 for first 50 words, 85¢ each additional word. A box can be added around an ad for $5. Notices or Announcements Notices of events, alumni weekends, camp meetings, etc., can be printed at no charge if no product or service is involved and no price is listed. Placement is not guaranteed, however, unless the notice is purchased.

Services Adventist Coin Dealer: Silver .900 fine American coins (“Constitutional Currency”) by the roll in denominations from Barber dimes through Morgan Dollars and all 90% silver in between. Pre1933 American gold coins. Choice world coins, medals and tokens. Free appraisal of individual coin or entire collection. Phone, write or e-mail. Dr. Lawrence J. Lee, World Coins & Medals. 402.488.2646, P.O. Box 6194, Lincoln, NE 68506. lee@ numuserv.com.

w w w. a d v e n t i s t c o n t a c t . c o m Successfully Matching Single Adventists Since 1974. Adventist Contact is the original dating ministry for Adventists. We endeavor to be the very BEST! Will YOU be our next success story? Still alone? WHY? Join NOW! See what’s FREE! Tell your friends. Married through Contact? Send your story to: success@adventistcontact.com.

AdventistSingles.org Free 14-day Trial! Join thousands of Adventist singles online. Free chat, search, profiles, match notifications! Adventist owners since 1993. Visit www. elliotdylan.com for the Undercover

28 January 2010 | Mid-America Outlook

Angels series of novels for Christian teens that build on Biblical principles and reinforce integrity. Great for Sabbath reading, church and home schools, and gifts!

Gateway to Elmshaven! Affordable Napa Valley lodging at Vineyard Vista Inn at St. Helena Hospital, part of Adventist Health. Just five minutes to Elmshaven, Pacific Union College and other attractions. Our hotel-style rooms feature double beds, private bathrooms and balconies that provide sweeping views of the beautiful Napa Valley. Guests have convenient access to the hospital cafeteria, gift shop and all the Napa Valley has to offer. Visit www.sthelenahospital.org/vineyardvista/ or call 707.963.6365 for information and reservations.

Move With an Award-winning Agency. Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Call us for all your relocations needs! Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Contact Marcy Dante' at 800.766.1902 for a free estimate. Visit us at www.apexmoving. com/Adventist/.

Need help? Try Griffen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. SDA family owned and operated, w/SDA Chaplain. Opening for male, female, or couple. Rates from $110. Skilled care facility w/95 beds. Quality 24-hour nursing care. Odor-free environment. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Medicare and Medicaid approved. 641.842.2187—Knoxville, Iowa. Online at: www.griffinnrc. com.

Planning an Evangelistic Series or Health Seminar? Have questions? Need affordable, professionally prepared handbills, brochures, signs, banners and mailing services? Call free, 800.274.0016 and ask for HOPE Customer Service or visit www.hopesource.com. You deserve the best with confidence and peace of mind. Your friends at Hamblin's HOPE deliver on-time.

Purchase online at www.internationalbibles.com, a secure, fully functioning online Christian bookstore available 24/7 for your convenience; providing church supplies, Bible reference books and foreign language Bibles. We also offer SDA publications, SS quarterlies, study guides, the latest in Gospel music and much more. You may also order by phone 1.402.502.0883.

RVs! RVs! Motorhomes and trailers! Adventist owned and operated RV dealership has been helping SDAs for nearly 40 years. Huge inventory, courtesy airport pickup and on-site hookups. Call Lee Litchfield toll-free 888.933.9300 or e-mail. Lee’s RV Oklahoma City. Visit our website www. leesrv.com or e-mail lee@leesrv.com.

Single and Over 40? The only interracial group for Adventist singles over 40. Stay home and meet new friends in the USA with a Pen Pal monthly newsletter of members and album. For information, send large, self-addressed, stamped envelope to ASO 40; 2747 Nonpareil; Sutherlin, OR 97479.

Information Information Sponsor a Child! $30.00 a month can send a child in India to an SDA school. It pays for tuition, housing, food, clothes and medical. Adventist Child India is an official project of Southern Asia Division of SDAs. Call: 308.530.6655 or check online: www.adventistchildindia.org or email: childcare@sud-adventist.org.

Wellness Secrets in NW Arkansas, 5 Day Live-in Health Program, $495 special. A power-packed program that will change your life physically, mentally and spiritually. Also health seminars at your church. Call 479.752.8555; wellness.secrets@yahoo.com; www. wellnesssecrets4U.com

Employment Andrews University, an international Seventh-day Adventist Christian University with over 3,500 enrolled domestically and over 4,000 enrolled offsite, is seeking a new Provost. The Provost reports to the President of the University and is responsible for all the academic pro-

grams, educational services, quality/program review, student success, teaching and learning resources, faculty development, outcome assessment, university accreditation and providing Christian leadership to the seventh most diverse campus in the nation. The preferred candidate should hold an earned doctoral degree and have experience in mobilizing and leading a diverse structure to demonstrated levels of achievement. The successful candidate will have significant academic/management experience in diverse institutions of higher learning. This candidate will also possess academic vision, problem solving skills, collaborative style, strong interpersonal skills, and an ability to champion positive change. Andrews University encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds to apply at: www.andrews.edu/hr/ emp_jobs_salaried.cgi

Andrews University has a unique job opportunity for an Aviation Airframe & Powerplant Instructor. Duties include teaching/develop-

ing curricula, materials, projects and instructional aids for an FAA approved Part 147, Aircraft Maintenance Technician Program. Interested candidates apply at: www.andrews.edu/HR/emp_jobs_faculty.cgi

Andrews University is seeking an Associate Director of Clinical Services for the University Counseling & Testing Center. For more details and to apply please visit: www.andrews. edu/HR/emp_jobs_salaried.cgi.

Andrews University is seeking a Graduate Dean for the School of Graduate Studies and Research. An earned doctoral degree is required. For more information and to apply please go to: www.andrews.edu/ HR/emp_jobs_salaried.cgi.

Needed: A committed Seventh-Day Adventist missionary-minded, agricultural manager to grow a small school program into a full-sized industry. Needs experience with crops and working with students. Rural living, 100+ acres, tractor bldg. More info: www.riverview22.

adventistschoolconnect.org, or call 207.696.3257.

Rural Dental Practice in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge-one hour east of Portland, OR. Busy, quality practice; great lifestyle; churches and school nearby. Seeking dedicated SDA to continue our ministry. Seller to stay on to insure a smooth transition. Call 509.493.1463. http://w3.gorge.net/ mathisen/index.html

School of Education and Psychology at Sothern Adventist University seeks full-time faculty in areas of Early Childhood Education and Developmental Psychology. Graduate degree required (doctorate preferred). Experience in administration and teaching in early childhood education programs beneficial. Position requires that the applicant be a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, in good and regular standing. Please submit a resume and letter of application to John Wesley Taylor, Dean (e-mail: sep@ southern.edu; fax: 423.236.1765;

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Information mailing address: P.O. Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370

Southern Adventist

University

seeks an instructor in the School of Journalism and Communication to teach public relations, advertising or new media. Candidates must have at least a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree, and preferably a doctorate, in the field, as well as professional work experience. They must be a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in good and regular standing. Send CV to Dr. Greg Rumsey, rumsey@ southern.edu, PO Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315.

Walla Walla University School of Education & Psychology seeks applicants for a full-time tenure track position in Education. An earned doctorate in Education is preferred, with a specialty in math or science education or curriculum and instruction. Experience teaching at the secondary level is essential. Visit our website at: jobs.wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University School of Social Work seeks applicants for

30 January 2010 | Mid-America Outlook

(2) tenure track positions. MSW degree and minimum of 2 years postMSW practice experience required. Ph.D. in social work or related field and five or more years of successful teaching/administrative practice preferred. To learn more, visit our website at: jobs.wallawalla.edu

Travel/Rentals Steamboat Springs, CO: Exhilarating year-round vacation spot. Worldclass skiing, summer fishing, hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, rafting. Kids under 12 ski free. Large condo, sleeps 9-11. Two bedroom loft/ two bath. Fully furnished, fireplace, hot tubs, pool. Call 763.506.0436. Email: rdleach@aol.com.

Vacations! Looking for the best value and places for your vacation? Specializing in cruises, beach vacations, wedding destinations and honeymoons. Also, knowledgeable in Europe, domestic and mission trips. Let a travel professional take the worry out of your vacation. Call Mary at 800.393.4040 or e-mail mhedger@travelleaders.com.

Information Information

Vacation on Kauai, Hawaii—“The Garden Island”—Kahili Mountain Park is a scenic mountain getaway located at the base of Kahili Ridge. Just minutes from popular Kauai attractions, the park has an assortment of 1-4 room cabins with sleeping for 2-6 persons. See pictures and rates at www.kahilipark. org. Info: info@kahilipark.org or 808.742.9921.

For Sale A Reason For Science® Scripturebased homeschool curriculum is based on the premise that learning is an active process. Hands-on and “minds-on” activities pique interest and develop higher-level cognitive skills. Now available at your local Adventist Book Center, online at www.adventistbookcenter.com, or by calling 1.800.765.6955.

Gluten Free Cookbook: The tastiest dishes without wheat, local and exotic flavors from around the world abound in this amazing cookbook, “Pure and Simple, Delicious Whole Natural Foods Cookbook, Vegan,

MSG Free and Gluten Free”. By Adventist vegetarian celiacs. Don't let your celiac friends steal it! Get two. www.foodasgrown.com

that were radical in His day and still are now. Available at your ABC, at www.AdventistBookCenter.com, or by calling 1.800.765.6955.

Immune Ammunition: Five herbs blended to help fight virus, bacteria, fungus and inflammation. It's the right thing to try first with any infection. Buy online www.bonherbals. com. Also Vegan Vitamin D and other Vegan supplements. Or call Bonnie Mattheus 423.238.7467; Email: bonnie@bonherbals.com; Bon Herbals, PO Box 1038 Collegedale, TN 37315.

Wanted

“The China Study” Author on Video. CHIP program features this research. Get the most complete video series of Dr. T. Colin Campbell found anywhere. What causes CANCER and HEART DISEASE? Find out in this 3-DVD set. www. foodasgrown.com

SAVE 25% January 1-31, 2009! ABC Book of the Month: The Radical Teachings of Jesus, by Derek Morris. Regularly $10.99, SALE $8.24. Discover Jesus’ teachings

Cargo Trailer or Flat Trailer Needed for fund raising for Christian Education. Your donated trailer will assist many, many students finance their education. For more information, please contact Rex Bell 303.659.1999 or 303.886.3099.

Events Midland Adventist Academy invites you to celebrate our "12X12" with us—our 12th Alumni Weekend as a 12-grade academy the weekend of February 12- 14, 2010. This marks the class of 2000's 10 year anniversary and 2005's five year, and we invite everyone to share in the memories. Chalonda Webb from the class of 2000 will be our church speaker. Vespers, Friday at 7:30, Sabbath school begins at 9:30 a.m., with church following at 11. Basketball games start after sundown at

6:45 p.m. "We'll see you at Midland!" Email life updates and address changes to midlandalumni@gmail. com and check out our webpage at www.midlandacademy.org in the community tab for photos of last alumni weekend.

Third Annual Adventist Health System CEO Reunion. Jan. 29, 30, 2010, Avon Park, Florida. For information, contact Bill Sager, 863.452.2593, e-mail wcsager@tnni. net, or Tom Amos, 863.452.1979, email dtamos@gmail.com, or Jim Culpepper, 615.415.1925.

Uchee Pines New Lifestyle Center dedication/40th Anniversary is being held on January 21-24 of 2010 in Seale, Alabama. To RSVP please contact Tari Jenkins at: 334.855.4781. For more information visit the website: ucheepines.org Keep up with your union! www.midamericaadventist.org News updates, Outlook online, blogs and more!

Mid-America Outlook

January 2010

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PO Box 6128 Lincoln, NE 68506-0128 Change Service Requested

PAID

Nampa, ID Permit No. 66