October 2009 Outlook by Lindsay Peterson

Table of Contents Mid-America Union October 2009

Find individual conference reports on the following pages...

Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 "Double Life of a Leader" . . . . . 3 "The Story of Two Churches". . 4

On the Cover: Seth Pierce pastors in the Omaha area and is a popular blogger on midamericaadventist.org, as well as a talented Adventist author (four books available at adventistbookcenter.com) For Pastor Appreciation Month, he is pictured here with his wife, Angela, little Madeline, and their new puppy. Photo by Brett Knutson. OUTLOOK, (ISSN 0887-977X) October 2009, Volume 30, Number 10. 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. ©2009 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.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are stock photography. 2

October 2009

Mid-America Outlook

Iowa-Missouri Conference

"What Every Pastor Wishes His Parishoners Knew". . . . . . . 5

Conference Tributes to Exceptional Pastors. . . . 6 Mid-America Union Honors Our Pastors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 A Tribute to First Elders. . . . . . 13 Supporting Your Pastoral Spouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 A Farewell Salute to Van Hurst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Oshkosh Camporee—MidAmerica Report. . . . . . . . 18 Central States News . . . . . . . . . . 20 Dakota News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Iowa-Missouri News. . . . . . . . . . 24 Kansas-Nebraska News. . . . . . 26 Minnesota News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Rocky Mountain News . . . . . . . 30 Union College News . . . . . . . . . . 32 Adventist Health System. . . . . . 34 Letters to the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Farewell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Sunset Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Minnesota Conference

Dakota Conference

24 Central States 20 Conference

Rocky Mountain Conference

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

Union College 32 Kansas-Nebraska 26 Conference

In This Issue... Pastors are the heroes of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We depend upon them to dedicate us as babies and instruct us as youth, then later to baptize us, marry us, counsel us through the crises of life and finally bury us. Those of us who serve in local conference and regional union offices live off the tithe dollars that pastors earn, as provided by faithful members. Christ’s reward in heaven awaits our precious pastors, but meanwhile God’s family on

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: Heidi Shoemaker Iowa-Missouri: Michelle Miracle Kansas-Nebraska: John Treolo Minnesota: Claudio Consuegra Rocky Mountain: Karen Cress Union College: Jacque L. Smith

Mid-America Union Conference

gift of these marvelous men and women. In

President: Roscoe J. Howard III VP for Administration: Thomas L. Lemon VP for Finance: Elaine Hagele Associate VP for Finance: Walt Sparks

these pages you will read stories and testimo-

Local Conferences

nies about how Mid-America pastors—and

CENTRAL STATES: 3301 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66104; 913.371.1071 www.central-states.org

earth unites every October to celebrate His

their spouses who support them—are serving us unselfishly and joyously—despite the sorrows they must live with. Most touching to me is the testimony of Mrs. Steve Schwarz about her pastor/husband on page 30. Key to each pastor’s success is the support of a loyal and talented head elder. These volunteer men and women deserve the same gratitude our pastors do. You’ll find a tribute to them on page 13. Martin Weber, editor

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 Double Life of a Leader by Roscoe J. Howard III

lthough single-minded to the glory of God, all good leaders commit themselves to a double life of conviction and connectedness. Those two qualities do not often fit together in a typical personality, but they always do in an effective leader.

Balancing conviction and connectedness is a skill that can be learned. Let’s do that right now. First, we need to know what conviction and connectedness mean for a leader and why each quality must have the other co-operational.

Leaders who have connectedness without conviction are like Pontius Pilate. They take their cue from the crowd, apparently without a moral compass of their own. These so-called leaders are really followers of popular opinion. In private conversations they discern where people are coming from and reflect back whatever they hear, making it seem like they agree. When speaking to a public church assembly, they follow the mood of the day and promote it eloquently. They astutely discern the prevailing political winds and set their sail in that direction. Pontius Pilate leaders love to play favorites with members who are well-financed and influential. They find out which way the elephants are heading, jump out in front and “lead” that parade. They pander for the sake of political connections, even at the cost of their convictions. They may be so committed to having peace with the powerful that they eventually become suits without souls. By contrast, there are leaders of courageous conviction who speak truth to power, willing to stand alone. Like Martin Luther, their motto is “Here I stand; I can do no other. God help me.” And often it is only God who is willing to help them—but the Lord would prefer that they also connect with others of goodwill. Instead, these go-it-alone leaders value self-differentiation over any connectedness with the faith community. Often they feel self-righteous about their independence and isolation. Like Elijah out in the desert, they declare, “I alone am faithful.” That statement wasn’t impressive to God, and it wasn’t true, either. He told the desert prophet, “You’re not the only good guy! I have seven thousand on My side who haven’t bowed the knee to evil.” The challenge for extremely self-differentiated leaders like Elijah and Luther is to connect with others of goodwill and enlist them on their team—and then be willing to learn from them in the process. Truth is seldom the possession of one person. It may find birth in the conviction of one soul but will soon find ownership with other true believers. Leaders of conviction must recognize this and be willing to dialogue with their people—even those with whom they pointedly disagree. That’s how a shared vision is developed, and only a shared vision has power to change the church. Transformational vision is not about “me” but rather “we.” Otherwise leaders lose their influence and travel uselessly alone. Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher, is said to have warned, “A leader without followers is like a man walking in a park by himself.” He might enjoy talking to the squirrels, but nobody else is listening. And that’s a problem for anyone who hopes to generate change. Do you see why blending conviction and connectedness is vital for Christian leaders? We must be sufficiently visionary to declare “Here I stand” in one sentence, then ask in the next, “Now, where do you stand? Let’s talk about it.” From such conversation in the unity of the Spirit, a shared vision can emerge. As with everything else, Jesus is our example in balancing conviction with connectedness. He defined the truth about Himself without needlessly alienating His disciples by saying too much at once: “There is so much more I want to tell you, but you cannot bear it now” (John 16:12, NLT). He continually challenged them to take their next step forward on the discipleship journey, yet He communicated only what they could process day by day. The principles of conviction and connectedness go along with the principle of non-anxiety that we discussed last month. All three are presented in the landmark book Generation to Generation by the late Jewish author and systems therapist Edwin H. Friedman.1 To sum up what we’ve been talking about today: Good leaders transcend people-pleasing politics and take a stand, but they are never content to stand alone. They continually and creatively seek to connect with all their people, leading them onward in advancing God’s kingdom.

Roscoe J. Howard III, DMin (can), is president of the Mid-America Union. 1

Edwin H. Friedman, Generation to Generation: Family Process in Church and Synagogue (New York: Guilford Press, 1985).

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Editorial The Story of Two Churches by Martin Weber

hat’s the best thing we can do for our pastors during Pastoral Appreciation Month? Pray? Yes—and then help fulfill those prayers by supporting their leadership.

Let me tell you about two churches in one district where I was pastor. Neither had experienced growth for years. Church #1 embraced change, while church #2 resisted. Church #1 rallied to a shared vision under my leadership, while elders at the other one opposed change or simply held their peace. What happened? Church #1 began by making Sabbath services friendlier, less formalized. We did nothing radical—just made the service flow worshipfully like a river, singing simple but heartfelt praise songs. The effect was profound. Attendance grew. An assistant secretary of the U.S. Navy, moving to our city after retiring from the Pentagon, went church shopping and chose our congregation. He had known Adventist truth for years, but now his heart was fulfilled in Sabbath worship and fellowship. His presence gave an immediate and dramatic boost to our stature in the community. Local pastors invited me to pray with them Thursday mornings. They decided to include Seventh-day Adventists in the annual March for Jesus—even moving the event from Sabbath morning to afternoon to accommodate our participation. When an interdenominational praise band formed, I joined. We played for a Christian festival at the local high school, which then invited me to help student leaders and administrators plan the spiritual elements of graduation weekend. We also played for the annual community Easter celebration, where I gave the sermon. The city ministerial association elected me to become president. Twice I was called upon to mediate squabbles in non-Adventist churches. The pastor of the largest church, previously an enemy of Adventism, offered to sponsor me as a police chaplain. Through him I met the mayor, who invited me to her home for prayer, sought my spiritual counsel on a civic matter and presented me with a community service award. Although some pastors might not take the approach I did, all of this happened without compromising our Seventh-day Adventist message or mission. Two pastors became convinced of the Sabbath. One of them, with whom I had lunch every week, accompanied me to Toronto so he could attend my seminar presentation at the World Ministerial Convention that preceded the 2000 General Conference Session.

All this Spirit-filled transformation happened for church #1, which doubled in size. Church #2 witnessed that excitement with deep concern. They renewed their commitment to “historic Adventism,” faithful even unto death. For example: Someone objected to members greeting each other in their sanctuary, so church leaders spent thousands of potentially evangelistic dollars building a foyer—then announced that from henceforth the sanctuary must become silent. It did, rather like a graveyard. Soon after, the elder who led the battle for church reverence got into a physical altercation involving the police. (Really.) Community relations took another hit when another self-appointed terrorist of the Testimonies complained about the church’s food bank distributing canned soup with chicken. Lay leaders shut down the operation, quickly solving the problem (for the church—too bad for the neighbors, and never mind Christ’s inconvenient commandment to feed the hungry). All of this generated a different type of community publicity than church #1 enjoyed. While that congregation flourished, church #2 declined. Why? Both had the same pastor with the same vision. The main difference was local church leaders being willing to work with their pastor for change. Yes, opposition did arise in church #1, but elders there confronted it. When somebody complained about our praise singing (“Celebration music!”) or our participation in the city’s March for Jesus (“Collaborating with Babylon!”) or about my putting a simple wooden cross on the platform (“Catholicism!”), other leaders spoke up for me. They also defended me speaking at the community Easter celebration. (“Don’t worry—he’s not glorifying the Easter bunny.”) These courageous elders protected me like football linemen guarding their beloved quarterback. Leaders in church #1 provided protection to run a powerful offense against the devil. We moved the ball together, scoring early and often for God’s kingdom, whereas at church #2 I got sacked frequently, for a loss. Bottom line: If you want to do something nice during Pastoral Appreciation Month, then appreciate your pastors enough to support them when attacked. Even if you can’t agree with them in everything, you can pray for them—and then work together in positive new ways.

October 2009

Martin Weber, DMin, is editor of Outlook.

Mid-America Outlook

What Every Pastor Wishes Parishioners Knew

by Maurice R. Valentine II

astor, since you don’t have a job would you take care of this matter for me?” Pastor Ignacio Chaviano reflected, “I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.”

I once had a friend share a similar thought. “You pastors work a couple hours on Sabbath. What a job!” An incredulous smile crept across my face as I once again wondered why the time ministers devote to pastoral ministry is so misunderstood.

A doctoral student working on his dissertation may have uncovered part of the problem. A survey he conducted showed that there is very little understanding of what a pastor’s work week should look like. He asked church members to tell him how long a pastor should spend in prayer, study, visitation, meetings, sermon preparation, office hours, community involvement, etc. When he tallied the results, the church members submitted an average of more than 80 hours. The sad thing is many pastors do devote that much time to ministry and more. Somewhere between knowing we are living from God’s treasury, a penchant for perfectionism, a messiah complex (a misguided yet altruistic desire to save the world), some members who believe we are scrubbing bubbles, doing all the work (so they don’t have to), and the growing disintegration of family, society and civility, pastors can easily work every waking hour to the detriment of their own soul’s salvation, not to mention their families and the people they are attempting to win for Christ. Many hours of pastoral ministry are spent in a hodgepodge of activities, some of which must be done in strictest confidentiality. In the course of a regular week, pastors may do any or all of the following. They may perform the role of: Attendance Encourager, Board Chair, Conflict Manager, Devotion Presenter, Evangelist, Fiscal Administrator, Goal Setter, Hospitality Provider, Institutional Developer, Jesus Focuser, Kind to all at most times, Leader’s Leader, Missional Director, Night Driver, Opener (Building), Prayer Warrior, Quick Answerer, Realty Specialist, School Bus Driver, Teacher Visitationer, Work Bee Participant, Auxiliary Meeting Attender, Youth Booster, Zealous for All Things Good and Godly. The list goes on and could start all over again: ad infinitum, Agenda Developer, Bible Study Giver, Counselor … you get the picture. Oh, and of all things, I forgot to mention those two hours on Sabbath. “Worship Leader and Preacher.” Put simply, the work of a pastor is never done. Jesus said, let him who would be the greatest among you become your servant (Matt. 23:11). Pastors are simple selfless servants, yet in our attempt to be the perfect model of Christ-likeness, we often forget that Jesus did say “No,” as he did to brothers who wanted Him to be an arbitrator between them (Luke 12:13, 14). He said “Not now” to saving a good friend from the icy fingers of death (John 11:11), and “Not here” to a whole city who showed little appreciation for His ministry (Mark 6). Ten things you can do for your pastor.

1. Pray for him/her.

2. If your pastor says “No,” or “It will have to wait,” don’t take it personally.

3. Offer assistance whenever and wherever you can.

4. Live a focused life, realizing God has uniquely gifted you to do ministry.

5. Lead a church ministry or small group study.

6. Visit sick and shut-ins.

7. Cooperate in every way you conceivably can.

8. Rather than share the name of a person who needs a Bible study, conduct it. You’ll love it.

9. Don’t expect him/her at every meeting or each night the doors of the church are open.

10. Invite your pastoral family over for fun and fellowship.

One pastor shared an encouraging story. He mentioned that his elders continually surround him with support at every opportunity they can. Appreciating what their pastor does, the elders and their wives take their pastor’s two small children so he and his wife can go on a date. They protect him from well-meaning yet supercilious members who have axes to grind that would sap his time. By the way they treat him, you know they pray for him. Now you know what your pastor wished you knew but was too humble to tell you. This week, before you forget, pick a card, drop off a dish, pick up his/her children, let them know you love them (Heb 13:7, 17).

Maurice R. Valentine II is ministerial director for the Mid-America Union.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Conference Tributes to Nothing can stop Pastor Ephraim Pembleton by Kymone Hinds

s mone Hind tesy of Ky Photo cour

Nothing can slow down Pastor Ephraim Pembleton after 36 years of ministry—not even a fire that made his home uninhabitable all summer. Pastor Pembleton has been on fire himself, serving two Missouri churches in Villa Ridge and Springfield. Ten precious souls were baptized in August after a Revelation Seminar. Pastor Pembleton has led more than 14 churches in five states, with wife Charlene at his side. Countless members testify of their compassionate care and hospitality. They have opened their home as spiritual parents over the years, also raising four children who are now adults. Charlene also maintains a professional ministry of her own, teaching for Unified SDA School in St. Louis.

Saving One More for Jesus by Brodie Philpott Imagine being tasked with saving as many people as possible, with no full-time staff and almost entirely volunteer labor. Plus, almost everybody thinks they have a better way of performing your professional responsibilities than you do. Welcome to the world of pastors—most of whom love their work. They choose their career because it’s a Photo courtesy of Karen Cress calling from God. Pastor Bruce and Linda Aalborg have served tirelessly and selflessly for the past nine years at Colora- Linda Aalborg, do’s Littleton Adven- teaching children tist Church. Their constant goal is: Save one more for Jesus! Members appreciate the Aalborgs' dedication to continually improve their ministries and therefore Bruce Aalborg, the church. Littleton pastor Photo courtesy of Karen Cress

Keeping the Fire Going

Brodie Philpott is the board chair at Littleton Church.

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Photo courtesy of the Iowa-MIsouri Conference

Appreciating A Smart Pastor

by Michelle Miracle

Elder Jeremiah Smart began pastoral ministry in 2002 after graduating from Union College. He interned at Iowa’s Davenport Church under the direction of Elder Vic Van Schaik. While there, Smart and his wife, Wendi, committed themselves to community evangelism. During his time in seminary at Andrews University, Smart's family grew to four members, with the addition of Yanita and Kailianne. Smart has continued to pursue his passion for pastoral evangelism at the Knoxville, Marshalltown and Newton churches in Iowa. Evangelism has continued to be a key of Elder Smart's mission. After a successful "Revelation Reveals" series earlier this year in Newton, there have been several baptisms, as well as other new attendees continuing to participate in the church service. Robert Wagley, conference ministerial director says, "Jeremiah’s positive leadership and ministry perspective have been a tremendous blessing to his churches and to the Iowa-Missouri Conference.” Knoxville members David and Dianne Hiller add, Pastor Jeremiah Smart (center) his wife, Wendi, and their daughters “He and his family are a real inspiration to our district with their are welcomed by Iowa-Missouri President Dean Coridan. energy, trust and care for their churches.”

October 2009

Mid-America Outlook

Exceptional Pastors Pastor, Teacher, Coach, Example, Friend Pastor Wayne Morrison Connects at Maplewood by Claudio Consuegra

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

earching for Hutchinson Church’s new pastor, conference administration and church members wanted a person with specific experience, skills and personality traits. Hutchinson Church is also the Maplewood Academy church, which makes the spiritual well-being of the students, faculty and staff the responsibility of the pastor. From the beginning of the search, Wayne Morrison rose to the top as a candidate who would excel in this role. It was with great delight and enthusiasm that he was invited to join the ministerial team two years ago. Since then, there has been a dramatic improvement in both the church and the school. Steve Sherman, principal of Maplewood, writes, “Pastor Wayne Morrison interacts in a very positive manner with Maplewood students on many levels. Both in church and at school, he makes time to spend with

students. As pastor of the local church, students learn Bible truths and lessons from the sermons he presents each Sabbath. Pastor Morrison is also the girl’s varsity basketball coach. This year he will be teaching an evangelism class as a regular Bible class for credit. His life is a role model to all Maplewood students of what it means to live a life for Jesus.” The pastoral and educational ministries intersect daily at Maplewood and throughout the Minnesota Conference. Both pastors and teachers support and encourage each other as they labor together for the salvation of the youngest members of God’s family. Pastor Wayne Morrison is an example of that labor as he leads his congregation to reach to the community through programs like “Fireproofing Your Marriage,” while also showing the students, through word and example, how to work for the salvation of souls.

Denis Segebartt Leads with Love by Linda Benningfield-Hashman

At Chapel Haven and Fort Lupton churches in Colorado, we know this statement describes Pastor Denis Segebartt. He pastors both of these north Denver area churches and serves as chaplain for the Northglenn and Thornton police departments. Before becoming a pastor, Segebartt served in the military and worked as a logger and roofer. Now he serves God and his flock with unconditional love and seasoned wisdom. We know we can go to him with any need, and he carefully and prayerfully considers each one, never failing to offer practical advice and spiritual direction. Teri, his wife, and he are a blessing that never stops for anyone who knows them. He leads with love and faith, providing a wonderful example to everyone.

Linda Benningfield-Hashman is a member at Chapel Haven Church.

Photo courtesy of Karen Cress

“Loving is using your God-given power of choice to do that which is in the best interest of another person, regardless of your feelings, no matter who they are, or what they have done.” –Eduardo Schmidt

Pastor Denis and Teri Segebartt

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union Of S taff and officers of the Mid- America Union Conference share gratitude

He was slender and unassuming, yet a quiet confidence embraced his countenance. For two years I sat with eyes wide open and ears tuned to a master pastor. Interning under this consummate pastor of pastors was one of the greatest blessings in my life. He taught me not only about ministry but about being a man, a good husband and a father to my children. In my early ministry, before seminary training, we would debrief after every board meeting, and his indepth analysis about human beings exceeded any college professor I encountered. He would take me visiting to the saints’ houses and instruct me by example how to make appropriate, spiritually-significant visits. He was a man of integrity, principle and courage. The greatest attribute I found in this man was his sense of knowing who he was and not being threatened by others’ gifts and talents. He knew well the armor God had given him and maximized it to its fullest potential. An administrator, thinker, builder, pastor, counselor and solid preacher rounded out his portfolio. He made me want to be better each day in my ministry and to grow and make him proud of what God could do through me. Thank you, Elder Robert L. Whitaker! (Now retired in Northern California) –Roscoe J. Howard III, president Trembling, I hung up the phone with sobs racking me to the core of my being. It was

far and away the worst news I had ever received. My father had just passed away with no warning. Almost as troubling was the knowledge that my mother was there at the emergency room. Alone. Alone for the first time in 50 years. It would be 16 more hours before I could get a plane and travel the 1,500 miles to walk with her through what was her worst nightmare as well. I was not emotionally able to put together a coherent plan, but my wife called a friend, who called another friend, and within the hour, Elder Bobby Mcghee, showed up at the hospital and provided care and comfort for my mother until she could regather her faith and begin to move forward. While Elder Mcghee was known to me, we did not know each other well; he owed me no favors; and my parents were not members of his church. He did not have to go—but he did. Pastors do that sort of thing routinely—rarely stopping to think about themselves or their sleep. Bobby was an angel to my family that night. I will be eternally grateful. –Thomas L. Lemon, vice president for administration

When I think of Jesus teaching people beside the sea, I think also of Pastor Ron Halvors-

en Jr. making the concepts of the kingdom of heaven understandable to his hearers. When I think of Jesus healing the sick throughout the towns of Galilee, I think also of Pastor Cherie Smith lovingly nurturing the faith experience of all those she touches. When I think of Jesus sending out the disciples to proclaim the Good News, I think also of Pastor Rich Carlson empowering the Union College family for service. When I think of Jesus sorrowing with Mary and Martha, I think also of Pastor Terry Bock comforting those who mourn. He was the first to call me when word arrived that my mother died in an auto accident. When I think of Jesus inviting the children to come to Him, I think also of Pastor Shayne Daughenbaugh equipping the youth to direct their energies to serve the church and the community. When I think of the understanding Jesus showed to the mothers who brought their children to be blessed, I think also of Angel Bock creating a women’s community of caring. When I think of Jesus in conversation with those He met wherever He went, I think also of Pastor Buffy Halvorsen truly listening to everyone wherever she goes. –Elaine Hagele, vice president for finance

October 2009

Mid-America Outlook

ffice Honors Our Pastors and ex periences of pastors and church workers WHO impacted their lives.

Lloyd Austin was my pastor as I grew up in La Junta, Colorado. He was certainly a doer. He would gather us up for Harvest Ingathering and off we would go night after night. He is the first person who even suggested I go to summer camp, and he is probably responsible for me going to Campion Academy. But, sad to say, I didn’t understand GRACE. When I was an adult with children, Morris Venden became our pastor at College View Church. He is the one who finally preached about GRACE in so many different ways that it began to dawn on me that salvation is a gift. So simple, but I just had never heard it like he could preach it. I am not sure I still fully understand it, the idea of getting something for nothing is a very foreign concept to most of us. Morris Venden, through his preaching and his books, finally helped me feel the freedom of assured salvation. What a load was lifted from my shoulders when I knew for certain I could not do enough of anything to be saved. It is a blessing to me, when asked the question, “Are you saved?” I can say, “Yes,” with confidence. –Nancy Buxton, women’s ministries director (a partial stipend position) I was 12, bright and bored. And now my folks had decided that we would leave the large (over 1,000 member) church that I had grown up in, to “swarm” and form a tiny (50 member) church out in the suburbs. Our little group started out as a branch Sabbath school that met in a public school auditorium on Sabbath afternoon—after a morning already spent in church. But our group had an amalgam pastor—the Raymonds—Raymond Moore (of home-schooling fame) and Raymond Cottrell (a Review and Herald associate editor), and the Raymonds were wise enough to recognize the need to include all ages in the life of the church. As our church grew from branch Sabbath school to company to church status, every member was totally involved—including one bored 12-year-old. Somehow the Raymonds conveyed that Wheaton Church would never prosper unless each member gave their all. And so I grew from an immature, expecting-to-be-entertained youngster to a vital church member, involved in leading out in the fledgling primary division, playing the pump organ, joining the church cleaning crew—involved in every aspect of church life. When family circumstances dictated that our family once again join the large church three blocks from our home, because of the leadership in the country church 15 miles away, I came back ready to take an active part in the larger church—ready to become involved in those areas that I could contribute to—all because of church leaders who knew the value of youth. –Evelyn Cornforth, accountant When I was a young girl attending church school in Faribault, Minnesota, Elder Boyd Olson

was conference youth director. He frequently visited our school, and when it was recess time, he gladly participated in whatever game we happened to be playing. I can still picture him playing Dare Man’s base and Pom-Pom Pull-Away in his suit and tie. Thinking back on those days, I enjoyed his visits not only because he participated in our games, but because he reflected a joyful, loving, Christian spirit and made me feel valued as a child of God. Another pastor who made a great impact on my life was Elder Richard Warner. He was a young pastor full of enthusiasm and joy in the Lord. One day while visiting church school, he called me aside to ask if I would like to study for baptism. The church didn’t have an office, and I can remember having at least one study session in his car. I can recall a sensing of the presence of the Holy Spirit in the “auto office,” when I committed my life to Jesus. On a cold October day in 1956, Elder Warner baptized me in Mankato, Minnesota. I must add that Shirley Warner was the nicest pastor’s wife I encountered in my youth. She had a warm smile and made everyone feel loved. –Karen Fandrich, receptionist (part time)

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

When I was 14, my family stopped by the youth camp in Indiana for a quick visit. The

camp was about to host a union-wide leadership training event. While visiting with the youth director and family friend, Elder Bill Geary, he invited me to stay for the training because there had been some cancellations. While I was going to be volunteering as a junior counselor at the camp that summer, I did not meet the qualifications for attending the event. Nevertheless, I readily accepted the invitation. This proved to be a life-changing event for me. During that week, there was a huge emphasis on one’s relationship with Jesus. I remember one evening when each person spent several hours of quiet time sitting alone by a campfire reflecting on Jesus and our relationship with Him. It was during that time that I determined to truly follow the Lord and fully accepted Him into my heart. I will always be grateful that “Uncle Bill” invited me to be a part of this week and thought of including someone who did not meet the criterion. –LouAnn Howard, associate director of the office of education

We were just 6th graders in the little Shattuck, Oklahoma Junior Academy in 1965. Pastor Gary Grimes and his wife came to our church and loved us. Often Pastor Grimes would come over to the school and play basketball with the students. With a big smile, he was happy and kind. We fell in love with Jesus through him. As the year progressed, he held a “week of prayer” and invited us to accept Jesus into our hearts and be baptized. I know that some adults thought we were too young, but we were sincere in our hearts. When flowers came out in the spring, our whole class of four was baptized, as I remember. Elder Grimes didn’t stop giving us attention. He continued to love and play with us as long as he was our pastor. Life is strange because we cannot replay the movie of our lives and try different paths. However, each choice we make ingrains the pathways of character into our minds and who we will be. Some youth remember their pastor as stern or too busy to care about the youth. Other youth reflect on their pastor as their friend and advocate. Who would you be drawn to? –Van Hurst, former church ministries and youth director, now Indiana Conference president The pastor who really influenced my life is the late Elder C.D. Henri of Atlanta’s

Berean Church. He was a compassionate man with a gentle and kind spirit. He encouraged me to be obedient to the Lord completely, be faithful in giving my gifts to the church and always be willing to help others. I often think of him, especially of when he would said to me, “Thompson, love Christ and see what great things He has in store for you.” Those words have stayed with me until this day. God has blessed me to be able to tutor children and adults with learning difference at TEAMS Educational Center. –Thompson U. Kay, volunteer coordinator of disability ministries

While a principal at Milo Adventist Academy, I had the privilege of working

side-by-side with the sock-footed pastor, Carl Wilkins. Whenever Pastor Carl would preach, it was without shoes. More than that, what he said came right from the heart. The occasional stories of his experiences as the only American to remain in Rwanda during the genocide were inspiring and challenging—as was his commitment to selfless service to Milo’s students and staff, and to Milo’s neighbors along the Umpqua River valley. When the nearby Sunday pastor left for a new parish, they pleaded with Carl to be their pastor and had difficulty understanding why he could not be both the Adventist pastor and their pastor on Sunday. While all these things were inspiring, my strongest memory will be of Pastor Carl spontaneously and frequently popping into my office with the words, “Let me pray with you.” There was seldom an agenda, just a prayer for me and for the Spirit’s leading in the decisions needing to be made in the daily operation of the school. Pastor Carl introduced me to spontaneous prayer for anybody in any place at any time. Thank you, Carl, for the gift of spontaneous prayer. –H. John Kriegelstein, director of the office of education

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Mid-America Outlook

I remember Pastor Adrian as strong in faith, solid in knowledge and balanced in approach. We met him during our search for a small, one-room rural school willing to accept our vegetarian lifestyle. A Lutheran friend pointed us to the Seventh-day Adventist school in Oakdale, Nebraska. Pastor Adrian promptly followed up with a visit to our farm home. Renee kept him busy for hours, asking never-ending questions and listening intently to his answers. When I came home from the fields, Pastor Adrian patiently answered all the same questions over again for me until late in the evening. Months of subsequent Bible studies brought many interesting events and challenges, but with wisdom, patience and good humor, Pastor Adrian brought us to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ and baptism by full submersion in 1982. Pastor Adrian also infused us with a faith and trust in Jesus that has endured through the years. We thank him and wish him God’s blessings. –Roy K. Schaecher, maintenance technician Dr. Charles Drake has been a pastor, friend and mentor when I needed one. He mentored me in Adventist Community Services, sharing wisdom and guidance when I had questions. He truly has a passion for serving people in need, and he helped cultivate that passion in me. Working for the underserved population sometimes can be a lonely road, but Dr. Drake’s encouragement always refreshed me and gave me the desire to carry on the commission that Jesus gave us in Matthew 25 (verses 35, 36). While my husband was sick and dying, Pastor Drake and his wife Chrystal were our pastor and friend. They stood by his bed and prayed with him and our family. At Bob’s memorial, Pastor Drake took our family on a journey through Bob’s Bible. As he read through Bob’s Bible, he saw a theme in Bob’s notes. He shared that theme and reminded us that this world is not our home. My family has grown through the powerful message he delivered. He touched many of our family members’ hearts. Thank you, Dr. Charles Drake for being the pastor and friend during a difficult time in my life. –Sheila Schlisner, volunteer coordinator of Adventist Community Services for MAUC When I think of pastors that have been meaningful in my life, I think of many, past and present. If I focus on a particular pastor, I always remember one who went the extra mile in ministering to our family during a very difficult time. It was the summer of 1982, when my son was in neurotrauma intensive care. He had experienced a life-threatening fall with associated closed head injuries. Since our son was in the hospital 50 miles from where we lived, our own pastor couldn’t visit often. Elder John Goley, pastor at Denver First Church, was not our pastor—yet he came almost daily during the month my son was in that hospital, just to pray with us, give us a word of encouragement and later lead out in an anointing service. I will always appreciate the care and concern shown by Elder Goley and his visits on a consistent basis, not because we were his church members, but just because he cared for individuals and had the heart of Jesus to reach out and bring comfort where he could. –Walt Sparks, associate vice president for finance The nicest thing a pastor ever did for me was to take me out of class and drive me

down to Garden State Plaza to buy some new shoes. I guess somebody had noticed the holes in my soles and worried that winter slush wasn’t doing any good for my 5th-grade feet. My mother, a German immigrant, was heroically working two jobs, but that wasn’t enough to provide for three fatherless boys. That’s where Pastor Ned Maletin stepped in, and I’ll always remember him for it. That summer he baptized my brothers and me at a secret afternoon service in Hackensack, New Jersey. Had my abusive father (now deceased), from whom we had run away with our mother, known that we were joining the Seventh-day Adventist Church, he would have forcefully prevented it. I also cherish Elder Maletin for being courageous enough to perform that baptismal ceremony and risk my father’s vengeance. –Martin Weber, director of communication

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Seth Pierce

Bloggers on Pastoral Spouses www.midamericaadventist.org

David & Marquita Klinedinst

Claudio Consuegra

Kymone Hinds

A Tribute to

First Elders

F O R pa s t or a l a p p r e c i at i o n m o n t h , w e s h a r e this tribute to local church first elders, MAN Y of w h o m a l s o s e r v e a s l ay pa s t or s .

by Anita L. Clay

he pastor won’t be in church this Sabbath. Maybe he is ill or out of town. The news spreads quickly. Some members visit other churches. Others sleep in. The rest show up hoping that at least they will get out early. Despite all that, somehow the church service doesn’t miss a beat. Prayers, music and sermon are all there. The church rolls on—thanks most often to the volunteer ministry of its first elder (also known as “head elder”). Sometimes the pastor is gone more than a week. Perhaps he’s been transferred, and the congregation is without a pastor for a while. Even so, church life goes on. The church board meets as usual. Members still get visited; funerals are officiated; complaints received. In a pastor’s absence the church is still open for business, under the leadership of the first elder. These unsung heroes step in, often with little notice, to carry on God’s program. As lay volunteers, they likely have full-time jobs as well as families. Some have little formal training in pastoral and ministerial duties beyond yearly officers’ workshops. However, these men and women have something special—the confidence and respect of the church body that has elected and ordained them. Typically being long-time members, they also know the

culture and personality of the church. They recognize and respect the spiritual gifts within the congregation. They get the questions people are afraid to ask pastors—and the complaints, too. On top of that, most first elders are pretty fair preachers. Members who don’t come miss out. Lay elders can present from experience the challenges of Christian living in the everyday “9 to 5” world. They can empathize with members struggling with getting and keeping a job, facing Sabbath problems, balancing family and church responsibilities. As time moves on, the happy day comes when the pastor returns or a new pastor arrives. Everybody is glad. The elder quietly moves back from leader to assistant. His ideas and plans are sometimes accepted, sometimes rejected. It doesn’t matter, because elders know that it was good to have been used in God’s service. Maybe this Sabbath your church won’t have a pastor present. But the local elder will be there to serve. He or she will invoke the Holy Spirit and do their best. We’ll all say “Amen” when we leave—and maybe we’ll remember to say “Thank You.”

These unsung heroes step in, often with little notice, to carry on God's program. As lay volunteers, they likely have full-time jobs as well as families.

Anita L. Clay writes from Robertsville, Missouri.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Supporting Your Pastoral Spouse by Michael W. Campbell

hen I first asked my wife on a date in college, she politely told me she didn’t want to date a theology major. I could tell she wanted to brush me aside. So I told her that I played the piano and that she wouldn’t have to. She laughed and went on a date with me anyway. Fortunately for me, she continued to spend time with me as we fell in love. I knew she was someone who passionately loved Jesus, but at the same time, she knew even better than I did how difficult ministry could be, because she came from a family of pastors and church employees. Despite this fact, I discovered that my spouse had a sense of calling to ministry and a passion to share Jesus, too. Although most pastoral spouses are not paid for their ministry, their ministry is not only essential to that of their pastoral wife or husband, but they contribute in their own way to making a difference for Christ’s Kingdom. I have had many people ask me how long I plan to stay in my pastoral district. I’ve always said that the decision would not be up to me. What surprises me is that most church members think of my spouse as simply the “pastor’s wife,” not realizing that she has her own career, education and other life goals apart from my ministerial identity. So I’ve always said that we will know it is time to move on when my wife says it is time to go. With that being said, in the past two years I’ve been surprised with some of the very nice gestures, as well as some of the rude things, that my spouse has had to put up with. I’d like to highlight both. When I asked my wife what was the way she could feel best supported, she quickly replied, “Be nice.” Whether it is people calling in the middle of the night because they discovered an Ellen White quote that just couldn’t wait until the morning or yelling at her for the way her husband voted at a board meeting, she doesn’t need to be the verbal punching bag. On the other hand, we’ve had a church member who has regularly called my wife to take our two-year-old daughter on play dates, which has given her much needed opportunities for rest. So, with some guidance from my wife and sev-

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Mid-America Outlook

eral dozen other pastoral spouses from across Mid-America and beyond, here is a list of things pastoral spouses shared with me that they would like church members to know: 1. If the pastoral couple has young children, do offer to babysit; don’t offer parenting advice. The pastor’s children (aka “PKs”) should not be held to a higher standard than anyone else’s children. Please allow the parents to make parenting decisions based upon what is best for their children—rather than on what others think is best for the church. 2. Offer the pastoral family a network of support. Regardless of whether the pastoral couple has children, encourage your pastoral couple to take off at least one evening a week for a date night. Based on personal experience, one of the number one reasons why pastors quit the ministry is because their marriage falls apart. So do everything you can to help support their marriage. Also, if the pastoral family lives far away from family, encourage them to visit their relatives, especially around major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. 3. Treat the pastoral spouse as a brother or sister in Christ; please be careful not to pigeon hole the person based on

the gifts of the previous pastoral spouse. The new person most likely does not have the same gifts and talents. 4. Send notes of encouragement and ask if they have prayer needs; avoid cornering the pastoral spouse into taking sides about a “political” issue at church. Be especially careful not to badmouth other church members, and definitely not her husband (or his wife)! Avoid asking the pastoral spouse to pass on messages—they may forget some after the first ten! 5. Send your pastor away on a romantic getaway weekend or fantasy vacation, but most pastoral spouses told me they would just be happy if church members were simply nice all the time. 6. Respect their privacy. Don’t drop by the pastor’s house uninvited and expect to be entertained. (At the very least, call ahead!) Avoid calling at unearthly hours or calling back repeatedly—unless it truly is an emergency. The pastoral family may be having worship, eating a meal or dealing with a crisis of their own. 7. Discover how each pastoral spouse has a different “love language,” and since he or she is unique, learn how that person best feels affirmed—that may be through quality time, a gift or something else. Notice what he or she has done and let them know that you appreciate what they do in their own unique way. 8. Be nice to the pastor. Few people better understand just how hard the pastor works than the pastoral spouse, who

experiences alongside them the long and late hours. The pastor’s wife or husband is involved in ministry if for no other reason than that they make it possible for the pastor to do his or her job.

Michael W. Campbell, PhD, pastors Montrose Church in Colorado.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

A Farewell Salute to Van Hurst V by Martin Weber

an G. Hurst, church ministries and youth director of the Mid-America Union for the past four years, has left to become president of the Indiana Conference. Elder Hurst, who previously had been president of the Dakota Conference, is one of MidAmerica’s most beloved and trusted leaders. Supremely versatile as well, Van could perform musically as well as he could preach. Departmental assistant Adela Martinez, who worked with him the most closely, testifies, “Van is the most cheerful person I’ve ever met. He sings, hums and whistles in his office. I watched him give a Bible study to a young child, who just thought the world of him. I also admire Van for his leadership qualities. When he has a goal, he gives it his all. He is a leader and people just love him.” Our communication department is just down the hall from where Van worked. Associate director Amy Prindle recalls, “Van Hurst brightens every corner of the office. But even aside from his cheery disposition, he is a brilliant organizer with passion, balance, wisdom and follow-through. Those are God-given qualities of a leader. And he’s so approachable, talkative and just plain reasonable—traits anyone would wish for in a colleague. The Mid-America Union office won’t be quite the same without him, but I know that the Indiana Conference will most definitely benefit from his leadership and enjoy the man that is Van.” As communication director, I often dropped by Van’s office for prayer, sometimes with a work-related dilemma, other times for the sake of a loved one. Van would reach across his desk and grasp my hand as we shared a few minutes of intercession. Once he even offered to come to my home and pray all night with my wife and me in concern for a family member. One night a neighboring house caught fire, down the street from our headquarters office. The next morning Van and I visited to see if the family needed help. As workers carried smoke-damaged furniture out of the house, I paused to politely ring the front doorbell. Van just barged inside as if he owned the place. By the time I ventured in, Van was already chatting with the homeowner, hand on his shoulder. Two minutes later Van was praying with the man as if they were longtime friends. Indeed the man did become a friend of Adventists that morning, thanks to Van. “Van Hurst has been a great treasure on our staff,” adds Roscoe J. Howard III, Mid-America Union president. “We will greatly miss him. We are certain God will richly bless him and Janell as he takes up new leadership responsibilities.”

Van Hurst leading the Mid-America delegation at the recent Pathfinder camporee

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Photo by Tammy Fisher

This sign welcomes all to the Mid-America Union campsite at the International Camporee in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Camporee Inspires Pathfinders with

“Courage to Stand” by Diane Thurber

he strength of the Seventh-day Adventist international Pathfinder organization was evident as loaded cars, vans and buses streamed through the gates of the EAA AirVenture Campgrounds in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. More than 36,000 young people journeyed to the August camporee, themed “Courage to Stand.” Travel was not easy for some, like the club from Montrose, Colorado, whose rental van was stolen the day before their departure for Wisconsin. Participants included 1,975 international guests from 10 Seventh-day Adventist divisions. More than 130 North American clubs hosted 1,500 international Pathfinders and youth leaders, and the remainder camped indePhoto by Rich Herard pendently or stayed in nearby hotels. Excitement flashed across the Pathfinders’ faces as they anticipated a fun-filled, spiritually inspiring experience. For the past five years, many had been planning and preparing. The grand event featured a plethora of recreational choices. Available activities included ice skating, sailing, golfing, Frisbee golf, inflatables, archery, a petting

zoo and a full-size model of the ancient Jewish sanctuary. Airline hangars at nearby Wittman Regional Airport were filled to capacity each day as Pathfinders converged to complete activities from more than 120 honors offered and collect honor patches to fill their sashes. One camporee highlight was pin trading, which provided opportunities to interact with numerous other youth from around the world. Even Don Schneider, president of the North American Division, got involved. He offered a specially crafted prayer pin to any Pathfinder willing to pray with someone they didn’t know. He gave out 2,500 of those pins at the camporee. At the opening night of the camporee a search began to locate the oldest Pathfinder present. Soon Donna Hooper, a 91-year-old Master Guide from Calhoun, Georgia was spotted riding around the campgrounds on her motorized scooter, offering to trade pins with the young people. She still enjoys teaching honors, too. Many Pathfinders reported being inspired by her life of service. Sabbath afternoon, 1,500 Pathfinders boarded buses for downtown Oshkosh, where they marched in dress uniform through the streets to Menominee Park on Lake Winnebago. Townspeople gathered to see the young people, who had

TLT Christopher Rosado of Capecubs Pathfinders from Cape Girardeau, Missouri sets up boxes to collect Bibles during the Bible for bucks initiative.

The Imani Soldiers, from the Central States Conference, hail from Northside Church in St. Louis, Missouri.

believe God is going to use many of you to do things that have never been done before…your time is now.” All week, Pathfinders contemplated the life of Esther, an ancient Jewish young woman placed in the palace of Persia to accomplish God’s purpose for His people. As the sun set before the closing night’s program, whispers and gasps were heard throughout the assembly field as many pointed to a remarkable cloud formation in the sky. An airplane had intersected a vertical cloud formation, and the plane’s exhaust created the shape of a cross prominently displayed in the sky. Many saw it as a token of God’s presence at the event. The next camporee in North America is scheduled for August 12-16, 2014, in Oshkosh. Pathfinders may learn more about it by visiting www.adventistyouth.com.

Photo by Tammy Fisher

caused a stir in their town since their arrival earlier that week. Many Pathfinders had faithfully witnessed throughout the week as they met strangers in stores, restaurants and at outreach sites. Sierra Watson waits for her Goals for the camporee inclub, the Greeley Frontiersmen, cluded encouraging the Pathto be ready for church. finders to look outward, and they responded by participating in more than 20 offsite community service projects. Throughout the campgrounds as well, they expressed acts of kindness. Whether assisting a friend carrying a heavy load, picking up debris from the assembly field (each Pathfinder was challenged to pick up ten pieces of litter a day) or sharing food or camping supplies when needed, many young people demonstrated the familiar Pathfinder spirit of caring for others. James Black, youth director for the SDA Church in North America, spoke Sabbath morning and challenged Pathfinders to have purpose, determination and focus (PDF) as they stand for the Lord in their communities. He exhorted them: “The devil is trying to convince you that all your efforts for God are useless. But don’t you believe it for a minute. … I

Photo by Patrick Graham

Photo by Chris Drake

Both Linda Purdy, (Jamestown, North Dakota) and Ruth Chase (Mandan, North Dakota) prepared meals for 150 people each day in the Dakota Conference.

Clayton Mills (left) from the Praise Tabernacle Tigers in Whiteville, North Carolina, considers trading Pathfinder pins with Christopher Amick, of the Brainerd Firebirds.

Photo by Kanique Mighty-Nugent

Photo by Gerry Chudleigh

Diane Thurber is associate director of communication for the Lake Union Conference.

From having their van stolen the day before their trip to a near front-end collision with another vehicle, the Montrose Club saw God’s loving care and protection.

Mid-America Union News Central States News A Taste of Africa by Anita Collins

Photos courtesy of the Central States Conference

Lightning and thunder in Davenport, Iowa could not interrupt Calvary Church’s first ever male-operated benefit banquet. It happened one June Sabbath when more than 80 church members and their families, friends and community guests congregated together for “A Taste of Africa.” The event raised funds for a local youth leadership camp. It was sponsored by “Men’s Corner Center of Empowerment,” a ministry of Calvary Church in which men of the congregation share a bi-monthly breakfast with men of the community. Attend-

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Mid-America Outlook

Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

West Africa. The men themselves not only planned the event but decorated the hall and prepared all the food. “I loved the fact that all the men were in the kitchen and that they promoted the different dishes they had made,” said BJ Peck, Calvary Church member and Taste of Africa participants businesswoman. The banquet was more than just capabilities are.” a good time and good food. “Men “There’s not a lot of men in working in harmony like this had church, so I wanted this to be a never happened before showcase about how God is changin our church. Having ing and strengthening them,” said a goal for the fun day Zachary Hardy, men’s ministries and getting the kids in- leader. “We’re in an age when men volved—that was re- are supposed to be in touch with warding,” said Bernice their feelings, and the devil can misJones, Calvary member. use that. The function showcased “Since I’ve been to Af- the different strengths they had. The rica, I can relate to what men became more touchable and they had for food. But approachable.” I was particularly imMaufous Hounsa from Togo, West pressed that they came Africa observed: “The dancing and ees have roots as far together in unity and cooking were different, but the peoaway as China and purpose, raising money ple were similar. We can do things Africa. for the community.” together.” A Taste of Africa “It was cool that the The program served as a learnguests enjoyed the men cooked the food,” ing opportunity as well. Lindsay Authentic clothing added to sights, smells and said 11-year-old Lester remarked, “I wanted the people the festivities sounds of African Collins III. “It was nice to know they can do something to culture just as high winds and heavy taking part serving it. I feel like I benefit others and have a good time rains passed overhead. Special mu- stepped out of my comfort zone. It without alcohol or drugs.” sic included the Imani Dancers, helps me to be humble.” Money raised from the banquet who performed African-American “The Spirit of God was there,” said will fund “Four Flags,” a one-day and traditional African folk celebra- Paul Lindsay, event coordinator and leadership camp with games, prizes, tions. Willing participants learned a church member. “I wanted the men activities and free food for the neighwelcome dance. to challenge themselves and not be borhood. The camp will teach trouThe banquet featured American afraid to make mistakes. If you don’t bled youth responsibility, on-the-job and African dishes such as shish-ka- get out of your box and comfort training and a chance to discover bobs, vegetable soup and riz-aus- zone, you won’t learn how to do dif- their talents. grace, a chicken and rice dish from ferent things for God and what your

Central States News Five Churches Unite to Impact One City “Experience the Hope,” a summer community Bible conference, brought 71 new members to five St. Louis-area churches: Northside, Berean, Agape, Tabernacle of Praise and The Lighthouse. The first-time collaborative effort among the congregations began with registration on July 5. Area pastors provided the preaching, drawing a nightly attendance of 350. Church praise teams and choirs led the music, with occasional solos and duets. For the first and last weekends, St. Louis Adventist Ministries (SLAM) Choir provided music. Crucial to the main Bible crusade was the children’s ministry component, offering much more than simple childcare. The younger kids formed a class that creatively examined the Fruit of the Spirit, aided by a life “guide puppy.” Older children in another class studied doctrinal truths at an age-appropriate level. Ten of them made decisions for baptism.

Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

by Ivona Bernard

Experience the Hope crusade concludes in joyful celebration.

monial service. Attendees expressed being blessed by the spirit of love and unity as churches came together for outreach and worship.

The final day of the Bible conference climaxed the memorable spiritual experience, with a touching and powerful “Prayer and Praise” testi-

Conference Calendar Oct. 17 Eastern Adventist Youth Federation Contact Dondi Smith, dondi.smith@yahoo.com Photo courtesy of the Central States Conference

Oct. 18 Eastern Community Services Federation Oct. 24 Pastors' Appreciation Day Oct. 24 Pathfinders' Day Pastors Mann and Bernard join in baptizing a new member.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union News Photo courtesy of Nathan Roe

Dakota's Oshkosh Experiences by Heidi Shoemaker Editor’s Note: All too often we report on events from an adult perspective. The 2009 Courage to Stand Camporee in Oshkosh, Wisconsin impacted the lives of thousands of young people—more than 70 from the Dakotas. Here are observations and reflections of seven Dakota Pathfinders. “Pathfinders were there from all over the world!” said Alan Bonde of the Spearfish Wolverines. For many from small Dakota communities, this was their first experience being around such a sheer volume of people. “The first thing you notice is all the people, thousands of them, and then you realize just about every one of them believes the same way you

do,” said Nathan Roe of the Sioux Falls Falcons. Justice Erickson of the Grand Forks Bison echoed Roe’s thoughts, “My favorite part of the Camporee was to meet people from different places from around the world and see how they are different from me, but also how they are all the same inside.” One of the most anticipated events during a Camporee is pin trading. Be-

Photo courtesy of Charles O’Hare

The Dakota Conference Pathfinder delegation

22 October 2009

Mid-America Outlook

ing a smaller conference, Dakota has one of the more sought-after pins. Self-proclaimed pin-trading expert Mary Rubbert of Bison Church said, “I went right up to other Pathfinder groups and initiated the pin trading.” According to Roe, “You didn’t even have to speak the same language to trade pins. One person from the Dominican Republic knew the words ‘trade’ and ‘thank you’ in English, and that was enough.” He went on to describe another man with a vest so covered in pins that it looked like he was wearing chainmail. Camporee is a great time to earn various honors. “I liked doing the home nursing and edible wild plants honors,” said Cassie Haveman of the Dakota Meadow Larks. Anne Wham, Dakota Pathfinder director, reported that more than 600 youth went through the grasses honor, presented by herself and Dakota Teen Leaders in Training. Apparently youth and adults alike were amazed how much of the food we eat is grass in seed form (like corn). “My fondest memory,” said Taylor Temple of the Meadow Larks, “was meeting ‘Uncle’ David Gates (the

mission pilot). I was able to talk with him about my aspirations of becoming a mission pilot, and I earned my mission pilot honor!” Inflatable bungee runs, making new and seeing old friends, experiencing music and theatrical performances—all were among favorite highlights listed by Pathfinders in surveys. But it wasn’t just the fun and games that impacted these youth. “It helped me grow closer to God... The theme was inspiring and helped me

spiritually!” reflected Maddie Temple of the Meadow Larks. Temple wasn’t alone, as two Dakota youth (Morgan Ward and Arlana Pisciotta) were baptized by Pastor Darren Purdy, formerly of Spearfish. Both Bonde and Roe felt the best part of the event occurred Sabbath evening while attending the performance. “We looked up to see the clouds in the shape of a cross (in the sky),” said Roe. “It was so beautiful,” said Bonde, “It was as if God was re-

Photo courtesy of Valerie Haveman

Dakota News

Cassie Haveman on the rope bridge

ally there. I can’t wait for Oshkosh Camporee 2014 to start!”

Dakota Youth Enter Heavenly Kingdom by Heidi Shoemaker and Loren Nelson III showing them how to survive in the wilderness. Camp counselors challenged these young men to become men of God. “The passage of a young man into manhood is something worth making a big deal over,” said Nelson. This year they “knighted” six young men and four staff members. They expanded the Teen Boys program and encouraged local churches to introduce the young men who have completed the program as men of the church. The Teen Girls' Retreat brought together young women from across the Dakotas and Minnesota to embark on their own journey, discovering a forever friendship with Jesus, the “ultimate friend.” Outreach projects included baking and decorating cookies, which were then distributed to area residents, along with Photo courtesy of the Dakota Conference the girls’ offer to pray for their specific requests. According to Dakota Women’s Ministry Director Anne Wham, the camp’s prayer room was the highlight of the week. As the confer-

Photo by Sue Nelson

Knights and maidens, castles with princes and princesses, plays including stories of purity and right doing—all exemplified the Dakota Adventist Camps' Photo by Loren Nelson III summer theme, “Lords and Ladies of the Heavenly Kingdom.” Despite difficult economic times and with 2009 being a camporee year, more than 90 young people attended three summer camps and two specialty camps at Extreme mountain Flag Mountain biking Camp, South Dakota and Northern Lights Camp, North Dakota. In addition to regular camping activities, the teens enjoyed “periodpiece” activities, which included crafts of leather, ceramics, tile and the timeconsuming chain-mail. According to Dakota Camps Director Loren Nelson III, Teen Boys' Adventure Camp modified their program this year with a twist: taking young men and doing extreme sports, Bible studies and

“Friends 4 Ever” at the Teen Girls' Retreat

Loren Nelson III “knighting” one of his young men at Teen Boys' Adventure Camp

ence continues to expand its summer programs, families can look forward to additions of Family Camp and Tween Camp to the lineup next summer.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union News Iowa-Missouri News You Don’t KnowWhat You’ve Been Missing Testimony of a Summer Camp Nurse

departments, and run them well. You sign up for your activities the night before and hit the deck running in the morning. Our family enjoyed meals together that I did not prepare (Hooray!) then morning worship, five full-period activities in any order you choose (as available, though availability is great). There is boating, lake-skiing, knee-boarding, wakeboarding, canoeing, swimming, archery, gymnastics, skateboarding (I saw moms on skateboards!), rock climbing, horseback riding, ceramics, crafts, photography, and I’m probably forgetting things. You sign up, you show up, and you provide your whole family with unlimited activities that would never be afforded you elsewhere for the price of Family Camp. After the last activities and supper, it’s Group Games. My husband loved this and is still talking about

Photo by Rachel Lassel

This summer found me the lucky volunteer nurse for Family Camp week at Camp Heritage. Volunteering at camp is a new favorite opportunity I’ve enjoyed the past two summers. I covered Cub Camp in 2008, and this past summer I was needed for Tween Camp—and Family Camp. My intentions were initially to volunteer when my kids, or just kids in general, were going to be campers to (a) ease my overbearing mom nerves and (b) get me back to Camp Heritage because it’s my favorite place. Years ago when I was a young camper, and later a staff member, Jesus became so real to me there. I love when my assumptions are wrong and an experience is greater than my anticipation. Every activity that youth enjoy at Camp Heritage is in full swing for adults as well at Family Camp—as parents, as a couple or as a single. The camp staff run their

Ila Lassel intently focusing on painting her ceramic pitcher

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Mid-America Outlook

Photo by Rachel Lassel

by Rachel Lassel

Dave Lassel hangs out on the dock, waiting for a paddle surf ride.

it. We also teach PE at Summit View Elementary School in Lee’s Summit, Missouri and are proudly using “Oh, Captain, My Captain” and “Fox and Hound” in our games this year. From games, you hit the trail for Campfire, and it’s everything you remember from your childhood years at camp, only more. Pastor Josue Feliciano, conference youth/camp director, has an art for assembling a staff that knows how to mentor young and old in worship. The experience is life changing and faith renewing. I am so proud of those young people serving as staff for Camp Heritage. Pray for them, please, as they are back to work and school. They are missionaries to our families and children. They are such special impor-

Iowa-Missouri News pheritage.com. You get meals, lodging, entertainment, recreation, the great outdoors and a spiritual environment that is a real treat and true reTREAT for the soul. We plan to be there next sum-

mer. We hope to see you there, too! Tell them Nurse Rachel sent you.

Photo by David Freeman

Rachel Lassel is church communication leader at Lee’s Summit Church.

tant young people. What an outreach for our families and young people. Thanks, Pastor Josue and staff. For further information on camping at Camp Heritage, visit www.cam-

Photo by Rachel Lassel

Rachel the camp nurse takes aim with her sons, Maxwell (closest to camera) and Dave at the archery range.

Part of the Lassel family heading out for paddle surfing

Teachers Explore Different Learning Styles by Joseph R. Allison Analytic learners absorb knowledge by thinking through ideas, asking, “What?” The teachers expressed appreciation for the planning done by Doug Hayes, interim superintendent, with

assistance from Lynda Duncan, education department secretary. Joseph R. Allison, EdD, is the education superintendent for the Iowa-Missouri Conference.

Photo by Lynda Duncan

Iowa-Missouri Conference teachers enjoyed a productive convention tucked away in the coves of Lake of the Ozark at Tan-Tar-A Resort. Along with the normal beginning of the year information and updates, educators received lessons on how to teach to meet the different learning styles of students. Michelle Nash, a learning specialist from Lincoln, Nebraska, shared with teachers how to reach dynamic, imaginative, common sense and analytic learners. Dynamic learners absorb knowledge through trial and error, asking, “What can this become?” Imaginative learners absorb knowledge by listening and sharing ideas, asking, “Why or why not?” Common Sense learners absorb knowledge by testing theories in ways that seem sensible, asking, “How does this work?”

Learning Specialist Michelle Nash (far right) speaking to Iowa-Missouri teachers at their August convention

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union News Kansas-Nebraska News Pathfinders Find Inspiration in Oshkosh

Kansas-Nebraska Pathfinders prepare to march in the parade.

Ashley Hamling, 13, of the Columbus Pathfinder Club, spent a day getting her hair cut. But not just any hair cut. It was for Locks of Love, which provides hair for cancer survivors. “It’s been an awesome experience,” Ashley beams. “I’m cutting my hair so someone else can have hair, too.” Behind every Pathfinder is a faithful leader or volunteer who devotes time, energy and resources to serv-

ing these future leaders of our church. Shauna Kutschara, director of the fourmember Chadron Ridge Runners, has made this her outreach mission. With a smaller group, she has recruited community young people to join their club. “Six years ago I looked for people to join our club and come to camporee with us. Four community members joined, and they had a good time. Then they moved to Colorado. We ran into each other again here at Oshkosh. Two had joined the church, and the others are studying to become members. So camporee can be a great witness.”

Photo by John Treolo

Pathfinders throughout Kansas-Nebraska joined thousands of others from around the world at the International Pathfinder Camporee. Travis Sager, conference youth director, reports that 13 area clubs, with nearly 400 Pathfinders and leaders, made their way to Wisconsin. They earned honors, participated in community service projects, associated with fellow Pathfinders and—most importantly—drew closer to their Master Guide, Jesus Christ. “To come to some place like this with more than 30,000 Pathfinders is so meaningful, because it helps them understand the enormity of what they’re a part of,” Sager says. “These international camporees help our young people understand just how big the Seventhday Adventist Church is.” Kansas-Nebraska Pathfinders mostly report that having fun and fellowship were their primary reasons for attending. “You make a lot of friends— and you get closer to God,” says Brett Menard, 12, from the Wichita South Lightbearers. “I’ve learned that you have to stand up for God even if you don’t want to.”

Photo by John Treolo

by John Treolo

Offsite community service projects were a highlight for many Pathfinders attending the Oshkosh Camporee. This group helps remodel Little Oshkosh Park.

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Mid-America Outlook

The College View Trailblazers earn a third place honor in the marching and drill competition.

Kansas-Nebraska News

Photo by John Treolo

Five Commissioned for Teaching Ministry

During a special service at Chapel Oaks Church in Shawnee, Kansas, five educators are commissioned to the ministry of teaching: Gary Kruger, education superintendent for Kansas-Nebraska Conference; and four from Midland Adventist Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Marilyn Murphy, 3rd and 4th grades; Daniel Perry, 7th and 8th grades; Trudy Hoffman, principal; and Keith Vollmer, English and history. Participating during the commissioning service are Ron Carlson, conference president (far left), and John Kriegelstein, Mid-America Union education superintendent (far right).

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union News Minnesota News Stone Ridge Students Illustrate Boo Boo Bear’s Mission by Lisa Beatrez and Rudy Carlson beloved bear’s adventures in Iraq. The stuffed bear was sent in a care package to a Minnesota guardsman deployed in Iraq, a gift from his daughter. A Duluth church member worked with the book’s author in having children illustrate the story. Various area schools were invited to participate, among them our Adventist church school. Author Mary Linda Sather came to Stone Ridge Christian School to read the book to the students and answer their questions. The kids then selected scenes from the book and drew their interpretations. An independent panel of judges then selected which illustrations to use— including those of eight Stone Ridge students. All the Adventist students were mentioned in the book, along

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

Students from Stone Ridge Christian School in Duluth had the honor of helping illustrate a new book, Boo Boo Bear’s Mission, which chronicles a

Boo Boo Bear's Mission, by Mary Linda Sather, and partially illustrated by students from Stone Ridge Christian School in Duluth, MN

with teacher Rudy Carlson and the name of the school. This project was especially meaningful at Stone Ridge Christian School, since two of the students have fathers previously deployed in Iraq, currently serving in Afghanistan. Publication of the book not only provides a tribute to the sacrifice of all our military members and their families, but it also has been a wonderful witnessing tool in the Duluth community. An interesting side note is that the author, Mary Linda Sather, attended Maplewood Academy years ago. For more information or to order Boo Boo Bear’s Mission, visit http:// marylindasather.net/book-reviews. html.

Minnesota Ministers’ Retreat by Claudio Consuegra

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Mid-America Outlook

ernment-required annual training in blood-borne pathogens, taught by Carol Ellstrom, Maplewood Academy nurse. The entire Minnesota worker team also met for prayer. Led by Ed Barnett, conference president, the pastors surrounded the teach-

ers and prayed for them. Then the groups switched places, the teachers encircling the pastors and praying for them. Claudio Consuegra is vice president for administration for the Minnesota Conference.

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

Minnesota’s educators and pastors, all ministers in their own right, met together for three days of training, recreation and fellowship at North Star Camp in Brainerd. Pastors studied the covenants in the Bible, led by Skip MacCarty, associate pastor of Andrews University’s Pioneer Memorial Church. They explored the impact of the new covenant on our doctrines, particularly the Sabbath. The conference ministerial department gave each pastor a copy of Dr. MacCarty’s book, In Granite or Ingrained, as preparation for the retreat. The teachers received training in implementing multi-sensory strategies when teaching reading. These techniques will be incorporated into the existing language arts curriculum. Monday evening, pastors and teachers paired for a round of miniature golf. On Tuesday they took gov-

Minnesota teachers surround the pastors as they pray for them.

Minnesota News Teachers Train in Orton-Gillingham Method by Pamela Consuegra Dr. Joan Stoner was the presenter for the recent Minnesota Conference educators’ meeting. The teachers participated in a 10-hour Orton-Gillingham training seminar. This hands-on program, based on reliable research and best practices, provided teachers with the necessary tools to implement multi-sensory strategies of teaching

encoding and decoding •Multi-sensory techniques for sight words •Current research •Classroom adaptations •Implementation of these multisensory techniques into current language arts curricula

reading into the existing language arts curriculum, which gives educators the knowledge and skills they need to help every student succeed. The training equipped educators with understanding of the following concepts: •Multi-sensory, sequential, cumulative instruction of phonemic

Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference

Training was tailored to ensure that any teacher can immediately integrate this program with their whole group of students, a small group or in one-on-one language instructional time. Up to this time, only one person in the entire state of Minnesota had obtained this level of certification. Now, 22 Minnesota Conference Adventist educators can be added to the list. Pamela Consuegra is education director for the Minnesota Conference.

Dr. Joan Stoner presents the Orton-Gillingham method to Minnesota teachers.

Janet Page from the Central California Conference will speak to us on how to Experience God’s Power and Joy in our lives and how to hear God’s voice. There will also be great breakaway sessions, great fellowship, and great food. The retreat will be held at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota the weekend of Oct. 30 -Nov. 1. The meetings begin at 7:00 PM on Friday. You won’t want to miss out! You can download a registration form by going to www.mnsda.com, click on Ministries, then Women’s Ministries and scroll to the bottom of the page. Come and “Experience God” with us!

Mid-America Outlook

| October 2009

Mid-America Union News Rocky Mountain News I Honor My Husband, Pastor Steve Schwarz

Photo courtesy of Judy Schwarz

For 33 years, I have stated “Steve is God’s best gift to me.” He has been an amazing head of our family with his unshakable dedication to God, focus on prayer, love, gentleness, grace and acceptance of me, his children, family and communities we have served. Now I say my gift is doubly precious because of the path we have taken though the valley of death. In August 2007, Steve was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. Immediately we placed Steve’s life in

God’s hands. Rounds of treatments designed to heal were painful, nauseating, life threatening—debilitated Steve to the point that at times, he was not able to think or pray. Repeatedly, I placed Steve in God’s arms and prayed for healing and grace. Steve’s witness to God came with his unfailing thankfulness for all care, enduring faith in God’s omnipotence and unwillingness to give in to Satan’s attacks. Two years, 77 days in hospitals, five chemo treatments, one stem-cell transplant, 10 bone-marrow tests and hundreds of thousands of global prayers later, Steve is given a clean bill of health. Steve has changed through this experience. His faith in God is more invincible. His confidence is stronger. He is more articulate. His ability to proclaim Biblical principals in teaching and sermons September 2007: In the valley of the shadow of death is clearer than ever before.

Photo courtesy of Judy Schwarz

A Pastoral Wife’s Touching Tribute to Her Man of God by Judy Schwarz

Two years later: Pastor Steve Schwarz is back in business, leukemia free.

We have learned that our children are towers of strength. We have learned to rest in prayer. God is enough! Praises for His goodness! Life together is precious, wonderful, welcome! Always, we give God honor and glory—whatever comes. Steve and his family want to thank family, the Rocky Mountain Conference churches and those around the world who held him up before our Healer God. Unimaginable strength came from your prayers.

Rocky Mountain Conference Recognizes its Pastors Peter Drucker, the late leadership guru, once remarked that the four hardest jobs in America are (not necessarily in order):

· President of the United States · University president · Hospital CEO · Pastor

According to a survey of pastors by California’s Fuller Institute of Church Growth: · 90 percent of pastors work more than 46 hours a week. · 80 percent believe ministry negatively affects their families. 30 October 2009

Mid-America Outlook

· 75 percent report a significant stress-related crisis at least once in their ministry. · 50 percent feel themselves unable to meet the needs of the job. · 90 percent feel inadequately trained to meet ministry demands. · 40 percent report serious conflict with a church member at least once a month. · 37 percent confess to inappropriate sexual behavior with a church member. ·70 percent report not having a close friend.

Pete Menendez (Marion Baptist Association) identifies five top burnout triggers for pastors: · Moving to a new location · Building a larger facility · Illness or death in the family · Personal illness · Lack of time with family The Rocky Mountain Conference recognizes the difficult task of being a pastor and wishes to affirm the selfless service for the Savior that all the RMC pastors contribute on a 24/7 basis. Thank you, and keep up the good work.

Rocky Mountain News Kids’Tribute to Their Pastors To help us thank our pastors, some church school teachers asked their students about their pastors. As you read their remarks, think of your pastor and ways you can express thanks and appreciation for all they do for your congregation and community. (The pastor spoken of is listed in parenthesis.) Maison, 4th grade, (Linda and Bruce Aalborg) "Both pastors have many activities such as back-to-school bash, water balloon toss and a variety of games. They make me want to go to church, and Pastor Bruce is a very good preacher." Mikalay, 3rd grade, (Rex Bell) "He teaches me well, tells good stories, comes to visit the classroom, takes us to pizza, sings songs and is kind. He likes kids and makes me feel welcome at the church school. " Haley, 2nd grade, (Rex Bell) "I want Pastor Bell to baptize me as soon as possible. He cleans and paints the church, and he is smart and nice and tells me about God." Bryce, 2nd grade, (Rex Bell) "He likes to fish. He is a really really good pastor!" Andres, 7th grade, (Peter Braman) "He is awesome and a great pastor. He should preach more often 'cuz we like him!

Thanks for baptizing me at Oshkosh."

"He is very nice, likes to play with kids and makes them laugh. His church has very good potlucks. I think the pastor likes the kids more than the adults, and his sermons are understandable."

Teddy, 1st grade, (Craig Carr) "He comes and visits my house and brings Christian movies—you know, the ones that talk about God. I like and understand his sermons. Someday I might be a pastor and if so, I would like to be like Pastor Carr."

Brandon, 3rd grade, (John Cress) "I like that he is short and kinda bald. He is

very funny and sometimes he yells during his sermon, but it is good yelling. "

Mike, 6th grade, (Peter Casillas) "He’s fun to play and dance with. He’s the best pastor."

Maxwell, 8th grade, (John Cress) "I like the stories and things I can relate to but he goes on for a while."

Tony, 5th grade, (Peter Casillas) "He is very nice. He is a hard worker. Sometimes he jogs and prays at the same time. He is a good example."

Jeff, 3rd grade, (Robert Knaubert) "He is fun, does games, tells funny stories and keeps his sermons short."

India, 3rd grade, (Nick Clark) "He is very friendly and likes children. He talks a lot about Jesus and is very nice."

Kasie, 3rd grade, (Pastor Lopez) "Great preacher—talks about God— He never says any cuss words."

Tim, 7th grade, (Nick Clark) "He is good at doing a sermon because I can understand what he is saying."

Abby, 3rd grade, (Jason Seiber) "He preaches really good. He tells funny stories. Sometimes he joins us in Sabbath school and talkes about Jesus A LOT. I just love my Pastor."

Hector, 4th grade, (Roberto Coronado)

Photo by Michael Campbell

Mid-America Office Hosts Montrose Pathfinders Heading home from the International Pathfinder Camporee in Wisconsin, the Montrose (Colorado) Mountain Lions Pathfinder club camped overnight at MidAmerica Union headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska. Office staff treated them to breakfast. The day before departing on their journey, the 12-passenger rental van they had reserved was stolen, and another would not be available until too late for them to keep their travel schedule. Then a discounted 15-passenger van became unexpectedly available. The Pathfinders consider it an answered prayer.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Mid-America Union News Union College Union Students Stand Out at Oshkosh Camporee

The health-related teaching team from Union borrow the basketball team’s trailer to haul equipment to the Oshkosh Pathfinder Camporee in August.

their classes was in a nearby airplane hanger. Packed and noisy, the hanger reverberated with the kids’

Photo by Kian Conopio

Amid the masses of people at the recent International Pathfinder Camporee, Union College stood out by offering skills to the young participants in healthcare topics. “We took two faculty, one graduate and nine nursing, physician assistant and international rescue and relief (IRR) students to teach Pathfinder honors,” said Jeff Joiner, chair of the division of Emergency Management and Exercise Science. “To our surprise, all of the classes were full. The waiting lists were filled with eager Pathfinders.” Each class only planned for 24 kids, but with the long waiting lists, the classes ranged from about 28 to 30. The group from Union worked eight to nine hours a day trying to teach everyone who wanted to learn. Since the campgrounds were overflowing with people, the only place for Union’s team to teach

Photo by Kian Conopio

by Kelly Phipps

Leslie de Fluiter graduated from Union College with three degrees in 2007 and has returned to serve as a faculty member in the international rescue and relief program. She teaches Pathfinders in the noisy airplane hangar.

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Mid-America Outlook

enthusiasm. “The acoustics were so bad that every time we yelled, it just carried our voices straight up the ceiling,” Joiner said. “But our students just kept on teaching. They would do four or five classes in a row, yelling the entire time just to be heard.” The group from Union taught three health-related honors: home nursing, basic rescue, and bones, muscle and movement. In the home nursing class, Pathfinders learned how to check for a fever, check respiration rate, feed a patient in bed and give medications. During the basic rescue class, Pathfinders learned how to save a person from various situations, attract a rescue aircraft, use a stretcher and tie knots. The bones, muscles and movement class taught Pathfinders the functions of the skeletal system, different bones and joints, and how to identify a broken bone. “This camporee was a growing

Union College Besides losing their voices, Union students faced another challenge all too familiar to teachers and parents. “Overall, Oshkosh was a very rewarding experience. Sometimes it was frustrating to see a few of the Pathfinders not staying focused,” said Doline Omirera, physician assistant graduate student. “But all we could do was smile and keep on Union College international rescue and relief students, being good role models.” Garrett and Katrina McClarty, demonstrate how to care Through helping others for a patient. and showing a friendly Union College spirit towards all, the ceived,” Joiner said, “We could have camporee was one that won’t be eas- done 10 times the amount of classes ily forgotten. “We were very well re- and still filled up every one of them.” Photo by Kian Conopio

experience for me because I had to teach something I’ve known for years on a level that kids can understand,” said Kian Conopio, junior IRR major. “All of us got a chance to use what we’ve been learning in the classroom and teach it to others.” Union students had the opportunity to reach out in a unique way and make connections. “Out of all the Adventist colleges we saw there, I saw only one other teaching classes,” Joiner said. “We also met a lot of alumni and parents with new students attending Union. The volunteering we did was great because others could see what our programs are doing in the Adventist church.”

Lincoln Students Benefit From TLC Grant by Hannah Adams A grant recently awarded to Union College’s Teaching Learning Center (TLC) will benefit the local Lincoln community by empowering students faced with learning and development disabilities such as ADD. TLC, Union’s academic support and disability service provider, received $84,510 in funding from Woods Charitatble Foundation, disbursed over the next three years. With this grant, the center plans to implement a program designed to aid high school seniors with learning disabilities transition into college life, and likewise, help 8th graders transition into high school life. The two nine-week pilot classes scheduled to run during the 2009-2010 school year will focus on self-advocating and financial aid. “This new program was created in order to open educational doors for students with disabilities who otherwise wouldn’t recognize education as an option,” said Debbie Forshee-Sweeney, TLC director. “Many students with learning disabilities and ADD go through high school with the false belief that higher education is not in their reach.” “The grant enables Union College’s Teaching Learning Center to provide more support to students with disabilities and ADHD, while at the same time allowing them to serve the community,” said Kyle Martsching, grant coordinator. Martsching, in conjunction with a Lincoln Public School system teacher, will present the curriculum during the Transition Summit hosted by Nebraska Department of Education in November.

“We hope this curriculum can be flexible enough for any other college and high school to implement,” ForsheeSweeney said. “Union College truly defines service learning, and this program is a prime example of that.”

Campus Calendar Oct. 1-3 Fall Preview Days Oct. 9 FFH (Far From Home) Christian Concert Nov. 1-3 College Days for Academies in Mid-America Nov. 22-29 Thanksgiving Vacation For news updates and campus information, visit Union College's website: w w w.ucollege.edu

Mid-America Outlook

| October 2009

Adventist Health System

Picture Perfect Comforted by a Painting, a Parker Adventist Hospital Patient Multiplies the Blessing

he’s in constant pain. She’s had one major surgery and faces another. She wages daily battle against a rare disease. But Heidi Gunn is grateful. And she thanks God, Parker Adventist Hospital—and yes, even transverse myelitus—for turning her life around. For this Aurora, Colorado mother and grandmother, it all started with neck pain that wouldn’t go away. A day later, she couldn’t feel her legs. When her physician insisted on immediate hospitalization, Heidi chose Parker Adventist. “I used to be a Seventh-day Adventist,” she says, “and it made me feel warm somehow to be there.” With the diagnosis came the start of a journey into the unknown. Heidi had transverse myelitus—a serious and often incapacitating form of spinal cord inflammation from which many don’t fully recover. She would need aggressive treatment, including back surgery. Overwhelmed and frightened, Heidi reflected on her life. “I had been a major alcoholic for 20 years,” she says, “I even drank in front of my grandchildren and was mean to

people.” She had tried to stop many times, without success. “But there in the hospital, it hit me like lighting what my life needed to be.” She shared her struggle and fears with Mike Hansen, Parker Adventist chaplain. After praying with her, he said, “I think I have something that might help,” and returned with a well-known artist’s depiction of Jesus steadying the hands of a surgeon. As Heidi looked at the print, she felt His calming presence, and when she was wheeled to the operating room, the picture went with her. The surgery was successful, and Heidi soon returned home—still moved by the painting and eager to share it. She went straight to her computer and ordered 20 postcard-size versions, then made a special trip back to the hospital and asked Mike to distribute them as he saw fit. “I wanted others to experience the blessing I had received,” she says. Today, though the road to recovery has been slow, Heidi remains buoyant and unfazed. “I hurt every day, but I live a good life,” she says. She returns to Parker Adventist frequently, sometimes just to visit the chapel, where she always sits in her favorite chair—front row, on the right hand side. “I grab some tissues and pray alone,” she says. “It gives me strength for whatever is ahead.” On one such visit, Mike met her at the door. “I need to show you what you did,” he said and led a puzzled Heidi to the second floor lobby. There above the surgery reception desk hung a wall-size version of the same painting, positioned so patients could see it just before surgery. A nearby table held a stack of postcard prints, and the picture was now on the wall of each pre-op room. “My eyes welled up when I saw it,” she recalls. “I knew God had brought me to this hospital for a reason.” Things are different for Heidi now—she feels like a new person. While her strength and vitality have slowly returned, the desire for alcohol never has. It’s been almost two years since her last drink, and she hasn’t had a single craving—a fact she finds miraculous. “Without this disease and Parker Adventist, I would either have died or killed someone with my drinking,” she says. “I’m very thankful.” This article was submitted by Stephen King, senior vice president for mission and ministry for Colorado’s Adventist hospitals, and written by CMBell Company.

Nathan Greene's painting was central to Heidi Gunn's lifechanging stay at Parker Adventist Hospital. 34

Information Correspondence

Letters to the

Editor

Hi Martin. Realizing that some folks may label me a legalist, I still need to voice a concern about the Adventist on the front page of the Sept. Outlook. How does her necklace correlate with the statement in the 2005 SDA Church Manual: “To dress plainly, abstaining from display of jewelry and ornaments of every kind, is in keeping with our faith” (Testimonies vol. 3, p. 366). It is clearly taught in the Scriptures that the wearing of jewelry is contrary to the will of God: “. . . Not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array" is the admonition of the apostle Paul (1 Tim.2:9). The wearing of ornaments of jewelry is a bid for attention which is not in keeping with Christian principles. I believe that we are overdue for “a revival of true godliness” that EGW called for. –Don Casebolt, Farmington, New Mexico Editor’s note: Don, I know you as a deeply sincere man and I affirm your passion for simplicity regarding adornment— but who gets to define exactly what that means? Is this God’s work or something we take upon ourselves in judging somebody else? And what exactly is adornment? I don’t hear concerns about a man’s gold cufflinks. Suppose you take those cufflinks and put them through a teenager’s pierced ears. Then suddenly a politically correct adornment supposedly qualifies for divine condemnation. To resolve such inconsistency, we could denounce all adornment—which logically would include gold dress pins and tie chains. And to be consistent, we shouldn’t stop there. Let’s visit everybody’s house and condemn any furnishing or knick-knack that some concerned member might judge as artistically excessive. After purging the living room, let’s go to the kitchen and cleanse the fridge of any food too adorned with sugar or fat. I believe that God has a better idea. Christian unity involves “one Lord, one faith, one baptism,” but not uniformity in personal conscience issues, about which the Bible says, “Let each be fully convinced in His own mind” (Romans 14:5). We are not all at the same stage of faith development, and it’s God’s job to impress each conscience what needs to go and what is OK. Meanwhile, “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Cor. 3:17). Please remember that the woman on our cover, under scrutiny in this letter, is God’s ambassador who won two precious souls to our church. If God saw fit to use her, who are we to call her into question? (By the way, she cheerfully approved

our publishing this letter about her.) Perhaps when we all stop worrying about what people are wearing and care more about their souls, we might see that “revival of primitive godliness.” (And I’m not referring to you here, Don, whom I have experienced as a friendly, caring person.) As God’s Spirit moves throughout a loving, prayerful church, true believers will be convicted about excessive adornment regarding their persons, vehicles, houses and bank accounts. And just for the record (full disclosure here), I don’t own any earrings—or cufflinks!

Note: the final several letters came in response to the new website www.sdaforme.org, set up to provide a positive defense of SDA fundamental beliefs:

Thanks for your effort on a website that is long overdue. I have some experience with a former minister who has left the [Adventist] Church. He is a fellow traveler with many of the leaders of the “former Adventist” movement. Our church has been a blessing to me. I realize that it will not save me—and never have I been told that it will. But the love shown to me at every step makes the claims of these naysayers seem foreign. –Brant Westbrook, Wichita, Kansas Just received the latest issue of Outlook and read about your new website. I immediately logged on. I am thrilled that God has used you and your friends to defend the faith and allow those with sincere question a place to find BIBLICAL answers. After all we are people of “the Book.” I have already linked this to my Facebook and sent it to all in my address book. I pray God will spread this news like fire throughout the world. –Posted on www.sdaforme.com.

Until recently I thought I had proven Adventism mistaken and Ellen White a false prophet. … I just wanted to thank you for this web page and let you know that God has used you to make a difference in my life and in my search. - [Name withheld], Canada 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

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

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.

Baker, Florence D., b. Aug. 17, 1929, in Fredonia, ND, d. Aug. 18, 2009, in Jamestown, ND. Member and served as Sabbath school secretary and various class teacher, deaconess, and other positions in Jamestown Church. Preceded in death by parents; and two brothers. Survived by husband, Wilbert; two brothers; sons, Wayne and Rydell; daughters, Myrna Harris and Lynette Didier; 13 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Balint, George V., b. April 23, 1925, in Aurora, IL, d. Aug. 19, 2009, in Clinton, IA. Member of Clinton Church. Served in the Navy during WWII. Survived by wife, Mary Ann; daughters, Donna Randis, Sharon Buquoi and Kimberly Balint; stepchildren, Michael Kuk, Mary Ann Kaffenberger, Catherine Kuk; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and two stepgreat-grandchildren.

Case, Larry, b. April 19, 1942, in Independence, MO, d. Feb. 11, 2009. Member of Canon City Church. Survived by wife, Vi; sons, Michael, David, Joel and Rick; and eight grandchildren.

Hallifax, Gladys Edith Oatman, b. June 21, 1925, in Syracuse, NY, d. Aug. 17, 2009, in Shawnee, KS. Member of New Haven Church. Survived by husband, Robert; son, Rob; daughter, Denise Beatty; four grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren.

Harold, Ruth Kibler, b. March 17, 1913, in Denver, CO, d. August 11, 2008, in Olathe, CO. Member of Grand Junction Church. Preceded in death by husband, John. Survived by daughter Pat Scott; sons, John and Charles; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. Klamut, Marie Jay, b. Oct. 15, 1913, in Saskatchewan, Canada, d. Aug. 14, 2009, in Clearwater, FL. Member of College View Church. Survived by sons, Ralph and Julian Dwornik; brother, Paul Babiuk; six grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

Peters, Lanette, b. Sept. 23, 1945, in Muscatine, IA, d. June 20, 2009, in Letts, IA. Member of Muscatine Church. Survived by husband, John; sons, John and Michael; daughter, Larissa Peters-Erickson; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Vickie Colburn, Colleen O’Conner and Jackie Peck.

Brenneise, Reva Maas, b. Nov. 15, 1939, in Custer, SD, d. Aug. 28, 2008, in Rapid City, SD. Member of Hot Springs Church. Preceded in death by parents, Floyd and Pearl Hendricks. Survived by husband, Ken; step-daughters, Kelly Commet, Daena McKenzie, Carol Harrington, Heather Andrews, Robin and Holly Brenneise; son, Peter, Lauw, and Barry Maas; twin-sister Rilda Ketchum; brother, Audley Hendrix; three grandchildren; and eight step-grandchildren.

d. June 20, 2009, in Wichita, KS. Member of Wichita South Church. Survived by daughter, Jackie; sons, Lucius and Tony; sisters, Linda Dirksen, Jeannie Murphy and Marcia Gillespie; brothers, Michael, Don, David and Chris; and mother, Louise.

Buechner, Constance E., b. Oct. 12, 1912, in Topeka, KS, d. July 3, 2009, in Topeka. Member of Wanamaker Church. Survived by husband, Charles; daughter, Sharon Oster; sister, Mary Bogle; brother, Harry Clark; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Sabin, Dean “Dino” A., b. April 18, 1941, in New Auburn, WI, d. July 10, 2009, in St. Paul, MN. Member of St. Paul First SDA Church. Preceded in death by wife, Pamie; parents, Elmer and Bertha; stepfather, Red; two sisters; and one brother. Survived by daughter, Bekah Jane;

Ray, Patrick Dale, b. Dec. 30, 1942,

36 October 2009 | Mid-America Outlook

granddaughter, Angelic; twin brother, Dale; brothers, Calvin and Lawrence; sister-in-law Henri Reed; and other family and friends.

lan; son, Jeffrey Harris; sister, Ruth; brothers David and Bradley; mother, Doris; and three grandchildren.

Tilley, Emmett F., b. Aug. 21, 1929, in Kissee Mills, MO, d. May 31, 2009, in Springfield, MO. Member of Branson East Church. Survived by wife, Ethel; son, Larry; daughters, Gail Madonna and Carol Tilley; brother, Etzel; sister, Opal; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Welch, Shirley Anne Bruton-Ferguson, b. July 3, 1939, in Rogersville, MO, d. Sept. 9, 2007 in Springfield, MO. Member of Oak Grove Heights Church. [No other information provided.]

Whitesell, Vicky Lynn, b. Sept. 26, 1953, d. Aug. 11, 2009, in Davenport, IA. Member of Davenport Church. Survived by daughter, Julie No-

Sunset Calendar Colorado Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Denver 6:40 6:29 6:19 6:09 Grand Junction 6:55 6:44 6:34 6:24 Pueblo 6:39 6:29 6:19 6:09 Iowa Davenport 6:42 6:30 6:19 6:09 Des Moines 6:54 6:43 6:31 6:21 Sioux City 7:05 6:53 6:41 6:31 Kansas Dodge City 7:21 7:11 7:01 6:52 Goodland 6:27 6:16 6:06 5:56 Topeka 7:03 6:53 6:42 6:33 Wichita 7:11 7:00 6:50 6:41 Minnesota Duluth 6:46 6:32 6:19 6:07 International Falls 6:50 6:36 6:22 6:09 Minneapolis 6:51 6:38 6:26 6:14 Missouri Columbia 6:50 6:39 6:29 6:19 Kansas City 6:59 6:48 6:38 6:28 Springfield 6:5 6:44 6:35 6:26 St. Louis 6:42 6:31 6:21 6:12 Nebraska Grand Island 7:13 7:02 6:51 6:41 Lincoln 7:07 6:55 6:44 6:34 North Platte 7:23 7:11 7:00 6:50 Scottsbluff 6:34 6:22 6:11 6:01 North Dakota Bismarck 7:20 7:07 6:54 6:41 Fargo 7:04 6:51 6:38 6:25 Williston 7:31 7:17 7:03 6:50 South Dakota Pierre 7:20 7:07 6:55 6:44 Rapid City 6:31 6:19 6:07 5:56 Sioux Falls 7:06 6:53 6:42 6:30 Wyoming Casper 6:44 6:32 6:21 6:10 Cheyenne 6:39 6:27 6:17 6:06 Sheridan 6:46 6:33 6:21 6:09

Oct. 30 6:00 6:15 6:01 5:59 6:11 6:21 6:43 5:48 6:24 6:33 5:55 5:57 6:04 6:10 6:19 6:17 6:03 6:31 6:25 6:41 5:51 6:30 6:14 6:38 6:33 5:45 6:20 6:00 5:57 5:59

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Move With an Award-winning Agency. Apex Moving & Storage

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.

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/.

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 email. Dr. Lawrence J. Lee, World Coins & Medals. 402.488.2646, P.O. Box 6194, Lincoln, NE 68506. lee@ numuserv.com.

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

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.

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

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.

Phonecardland.com 10% Discount. Home of the pinless/rechargeable True Minutes phonecard. True Minutes long distance service is 1.9c/minute including UK and Canada. No tax, no fees, no expiration. Visit www.phonecardland.com and choose the best plan for all your phone calls around the world. User-friendly, secure. Email: sales@phonecardland.com. Call 863.216.0160.

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 1-888-933-9300 or email. Lee’s RV Oklahoma City. Visit our website www.leesrv.com or e-mail lee@ leesrv.com.

Purchase Online at www.internationalbibles.com, a secure, fully functioning online Christian bookstore available 24/7 for your convenience; providing church supplies,

Announcing A Reason For® Scripture-based Homeschool curriculum with Handwriting, Guided Reading, Spelling and Science modules. Same curriculum used by more than 1,000 Christian schools across the United States. Now available at your local Adventist Book Center, online at www. adventistbookcenter.com, or by calling 800.765.6955.

Mid-America Outlook

October 2009

Information members and album. For information, send large, self-addressed, stamped envelope to ASO 40; 2747 Nonpareil; Sutherlin, OR 97479.

Wellness Secrets in NW Arkansas, 5 Day Live-in Health Program, $395 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.anewstartnow.com

Wildwood Medical Missionary Training: Intensive 26-day course combining Bible and Health Classes. Dates: Oct. 27-Nov. 22, 2009. Site: Wildwood Health Retreat, Iron City, TN. Tuition, room, and board: $825. For more information: Lew Keith 931.724.6706, lykeith@gmail.com Web: www.wildwoodhealthretreat.org.

Rentals/Travel 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.

Ogden Adventist Tours—Springtime in the Netherlands, Belgium and France, April 18-May 6, 2010. Includes tuliptime in Holland; historic Brugge, Belgium; the French Normandy Coast, Mont-St-Michel, and Paris. Contact Merlene Ogden, 269.471.3781, ogden@ andrews.edu or Judy Zimmerman 269.471.7004, zim41634@aol.com.

Retire in Western Colorado. Located above Cedaredge, CO, on Old Grand Mesa Road. Gorgeous views. 2,028 sq ft home on 3.69 acres w/stream and waterfall running through property, 3 bed/2 bath, large room w/windows galore! 2 car garage, laundry, office and den area. Possible Owner financing. $269,000.00. Call 310.422.1738.

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. 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. 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 1.800.393.4040 or e-mail 38 October 2009 | Mid-America Outlook

mhedger@travelleaders.com.

For Sale Threat to Religious Liberty? CD: “Islam, Catholicism, and Religious Freedom”, $23, (English or Spanish); DVD’s: “Comparaciones de Libertad Religiosa en los E.E.U.U., Espana, y Mexico”, $35; “Exodus of Revelation”, Rev. 12-16 from Church-State perspective, 22 hours material, $45; prepared by ordained SDA pastor with Ph.D. in ChurchState Studies. 256.454.3840.

Events Evangelism

Council

2009—

Three days of training for evangelists, pastor evangelists, and lay evangelists. Inspiring keynote presentations by James Cress, Ron Clouzet, and Ron Halverson. Uplifting music provided by the members of Message of Mercy. Nov. 30 – Dec. 3 in Daytona Beach, FL. For more information, call 407.257.6847 or e-mail suevangelism@yahoo.com.

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Mid-America Outlook

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