OUTLOOK - January 2024 by OUTLOOK magazine

MID-AMERICA SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST NEWS & INSPIRATION

JAN

2024

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SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING p. 8

MAGAZINE JAN 2024 18

PERSPECTIVES 4

STATE OF THE UNION —Gary Thurber

CHASING A LION ON A SNOWY DAY —Jeff Bovee

FEATURES 6

WHY I BELIEVE IN ADVENTIST EDUCATION

SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENTS

SUPPORT GROWS FOR SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

NEWS 9 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 29

MID-AMERICA UNION CENTRAL STATES DAKOTA IOWA-MISSOURI KANSAS-NEBRASKA MINNESOTA ROCKY MOUNTAIN UNION COLLEGE ADVENTHEALTH FAREWELL INFOMARKET

OUTLOOK (ISSN 0887-977X) January 2024, Volume 45, Number 1. OUTLOOK is published monthly (10 months per year) by the Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 8307 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516. Printed at Pacific Press Publishing Association, Periodical postage paid at Lincoln, NE and additional offices. USPS number 006-245. Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS. Free for Mid-America church members and $12 per year for subscribers. ©2024 Mid-America Union Conference of Seventhday Adventists. Unless otherwise credited, all images are iStock. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. CONTACT us by email: info@maucsda.org or phone: 402.484.3000.

“If a family chooses to enroll they’re not just sending their students to a school; they’re joining a community, a family.” —p. 6

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NEWS AND INSPIRATION

Excellence in Communication Ministry Award outlookmag.org/commaward-2023

MAUC Executive Committee Moves Mission Forward outlookmag.org/mauc-execcom-fall-2023

CONNECTING FOR GOD’S GLORY As we head into 2024 our OUTLOOK team is focusing on connections—in our schools, churches, ministries, families and among individual members. We know we are stronger together, and Jesus has asked us to care for and love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.

President Gary Thurber Secretary Hubert J. Morel Jr. Treasurer David VandeVere Church Ministries Tyrone Douglas Communication Brenda Dickerson Education LouAnn Howard Hispanic Ministries Roberto Correa Human Resources Raylene Jones Ministerial Craig Carr Religious Liberty Darrel Huenergardt Women’s Ministries Nancy Buxton

In this first issue of the year, our six conference presidents and our union president are each sharing updates on how we are connecting, gaining and growing stronger across the MidAmerica territory, despite the challenges many face today. We hope you will find their reports informative and inspiring.

midamericaadventist.org

In this issue you will also read stories about our youngest brothers and sisters—students in Adventist schools—and their various learning experiences. You will hear about a few miracles, along with a new initiative in social emotional learning.

DESIGN Exploring Creative, LLC exploringcreative.com

May we all work together in 2024 to strengthen each other, united by our desire for God’s glory to be displayed on this earth as we await His return.

ON THE COVER Vanessa Pujic is a teacher and the principal at Minnetonka Christian Academy in Minnesota. More on p. 6 Photo by Hugh Davis

BRENDA DICKERSON editor

READ OUTLOOK MAGAZINE ONLINE

OUTLOOK STAFF Editor: Brenda Dickerson Managing Editor: Barb Engquist Digital Media Manager: Hugh Davis outlookmag.org

CONFERENCE NEWS EDITORS Central States Cryston Josiah josiah.c@central-states.org 913.371.1071 central-states.org Dakota Jodi Dossenko j.dossenko@gmail.com 701.751.6177 dakotaadventist.org Iowa-Missouri Caleb Durant communication@imsda.org 515.223.1197 imsda.org Kansas-Nebraska Saul Dominguez sdominguez@ks-ne.org 785.478.4726 ks-ne.org Minnesota Savannah Carlson scarlson@mnsda.com 763.424.8923 mnsda.com Rocky Mountain Rajmund Dabrowski rayd@rmcsda.org 303.733.3771 rmcsda.org UNION COLLEGE Ryan Teller ryteller@ucollege.edu 402.486.2538 ucollege.edu

PERSPECTIVES

STATE OF THE UNION REPORT

t is hard to believe 2024 is here! Since the pandemic is mostly in our rearview mirror and there are no restrictions for travel or assembly, time seems to be flying by quickly again. It’s exciting for me to hear reports of our schools, and to a great extent our churches, filling back up to pre-COVID levels.

for nearly 66,000 church members in more than 500 churches or companies throughout our territory, as well as nearly 75 elementary and secondary schools, one college, nine summer camps and a number of other youth and young adult programs.

UPDATES ON HIGHER EDUCATION Union College continues to GROWTH CONTINUES amaze me. I wish you could Globally, the Seventh-day experience the tremendous Adventist Church continues spirit on the campus, from to grow. We now have more the enthusiasm of our stuthan 22 million members on dents to the care and experour books, with over 81,500 tise provided by our faculty churches. We have over and staff. It is truly one of the 8,000 schools, which is the best learning environments most by far of any Protestant you can find anywhere coureligion. There are also 180 pled with a strong missional hospitals around the world and spiritual focus. with many of them having If you haven’t heard, been started by medical Union College will soon missionaries who graduated be called Union Adventist from Loma Linda University. University. This name Here in the Mid-America change, which will take Union, we also continue to effect June 1, 2024 comes grow. Despite the departure with much excitement and from the Midwest of many support. Union College has people to the coasts, our actually been a university membership numbers are still for quite some time now, increasing. As you will read having offered a graduate in the conference presidents’ program for the last 15 years. reports, evangelism is alive With the addition of three and well with wonderful new graduate programs, reports coming from various the Board of Trustees, after parts of our territory. surveying many alumni and Conferences within the stakeholders, voted to make Mid-America Union prothe change. vide services and resources Another exciting update

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about Union College is that the new health and fitness center will be ready for the 2024-2025 school year. As I have watched the structure taking shape, I have been in awe of the generous alumni and other donors for this project. It will be a fantastic addition to the school and bless our students and community greatly. I truly hope Union College is on the heart of every young person contemplating where to attend college. The students who come to Union are highly sought after by employers and the learning environment lends itself beautifully to creating our next generation of leaders. In November, I had the opportunity to meet with the college’s religion faculty and the junior and senior students. I was so inspired by the faculty who are training our students to be pastors. And as I visited with the students, I was overwhelmed with the quality and dedication of these young people. THE APPLE OF HIS EYE So now, I will summarize what I believe to be the “state of the church.” I would say it is in great shape! Not because we have solved all our challenges and

fixed everything that needs mending. We still live in a broken world with an enemy who doesn’t like anything we are doing. We can expect trials until Jesus comes. I say we are doing well because we have a great God who is sovereign and who loves His church. As a matter of fact, the church is the apple of His eye! We are also blessed with the most generous and committed members who support this mission with all their heart and soul. And having witnessed mission-minded young people preparing to assume leadership, I can say God is at work and taking good care of His church. What a great time to be alive as we await the return of our Savior.

GARY THURBER is president of the Mid-America Union Conference.

Chasing a Lion on a Snowy Day

n 2 Samuel 23 we learn of a man called Benaiah who did many heroic deeds. One such deed was chasing a lion into a pit on a snowy day and killing it. Benaiah was a person of action who would do whatever he needed to get the job done. A myriad of stories in the Bible are of individuals who answered God’s call without thought of their personal safety, needs or comfort. The story of Benaiah is one of my favorites. Of course, one could point to David who took on the challenge of killing Goliath without concern for his own safety, or Esther who risked her life to save her people from extinction without concern for her own well-being. Daniel showed us how to live a godly life and do what is right even if it means being thrown into a lion’s den, while the woman at the well immediately started

telling everyone in town about Jesus and what He did for her. The Bible is replete with examples of fallen and flawed individuals who did the will of God even when they faced hardship and insurmountable odds.

The calling I want to invite you to consider what God is calling you to do. What is that still small voice requesting of you? It likely is not asking you to chase a lion into a pit, but it might be risky and require you to be totally committed to the mission like Paul or Esther. Why am I asking you to consider your calling? In Matt. 9:37 Jesus said to His disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few.” Right now there is a severe shortage of workers who are willing to answer God’s call to fields that are

ripe for the harvest. Adventist education is in jeopardy due to the shortage of teachers, administrators, staff members and volunteers in our schools. In the Kansas-Nebraska Conference we have schools that are growing, but will we be able to supply the “workers” Jesus mentioned to meet the demand of the harvest? I know dozens of teachers and administrators who have left the work because of the great demands. I hear a wide variety of reasons, and most center around pursuing an easier and more comfortable life. I believe we are living in the last days and Jesus is coming soon. It is essential that we focus on building for eternity and not for an easier and more comfortable life in the here and now. I urge you to listen and answer God’s call—whatever it is. If you feel called to the ministry of education and want to know what steps you would need to take to become a teacher, give me a call at 785.478.4726 or email me at jbovee@ks-ne.org. If you are a member of another conference, please call or email the education department at your conference. I am confident that for every vacant position in ministry, God has an ideal candidate in mind who has yet to answer the call. Please do not

PERSPECTIVES

let that be you. I pray that you will carefully consider what God is asking of you. One snowy day, Benaiah chased a lion into a pit and killed it. What will you do?

“These were his instructions to them: ‘The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.’” —Luke 10:2

JEFF BOVEE is education superintendent for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

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Why I Believe in Adventist Education Interview with Vanessa Pujic

Minnetonka Christian Academy principal/teacher

uring the past five years student enrollment has more than doubled at Minnetonka Christian Academy in Minnesota, from 56 students to 118 for the 2023-24 school year. OUTLOOK magazine interviewed principal Vanessa Pujic to learn what’s at the core of this vibrant campus in the Twin Cities area. OUTLOOK: Vanessa, why do you believe in Adventist Christian education? Vanessa: I believe in Adventist education because it creates a community around our kids and their families and our teachers that can last a lifetime and make an eternal difference. I can invest in people in a way that is going to make the world a better place. What do you think has contributed to your growth at MCA? One of the things I think has made MCA special is we’ve had our campus church for the last 50 years. They have been

amazing champions for Adventist education. There’s never been a doubt from our church members who love MCA that this is what we’re supposed to be doing as a ministry. It’s been so important to helping us endure through the hard times we have experienced and it’s allowed us to come out the other side with a refined sense of purpose for why we exist. That’s allowed us to make some important hires in the past few years of people who have helped promote MCA. We now have a team of 12 staff members, and many of them have been at the school for at least five years. You can’t put a price on how important it is to have continuity and a community of people who have been supporting the school for the long haul and are committed to seeing MCA be successful for many years to come. What is being done to build connections between school and church? We’re really grateful for the support from several entities, most notably our fantastic school board. They’ve been extremely supportive, always willing to try new things and step out in faith. As a leader, it’s freeing to know the board believes in what we as a staff are doing. Additionally, our church pastor, Ray Valenzuela, plays a pivotal role. He’s often present in the building, consistently sharing about Adventist education. He highlights us in sermons and conversations, showcasing unwavering support. His personal connection—with his wife teaching here and his oldest child attending—adds a unique dimension to his dedication. Twice a year, Pastor Ray conducts special Bible studies, connecting with different segments of our school population. This includes after-school club studies with third through eighth graders and separate sessions with upper graders, covering topics like Bible study or baptismal classes. We also utilize various communication channels to keep our church informed. There’s a weekly update for school families, another in the church newsletter, a monthly digital newsletter, and a quarterly print newsletter crafted by our communication director, Andy Carlson. Social media is also a valuable tool, showcasing collaborative events between the church and school. What do you think has created that sense of community or connectedness?

Hugh Davis

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I believe one of the factors that has greatly contributed to our success is the stability provided by Andy Carlson, a former principal, who instilled a sense of positivity and peace. Following him, our next principal, Elaina Rivera, further enhanced this atmosphere by initiating exciting after-school clubs like swimming and ice skating. This injected a fun and lively spirit into the school. Importantly, both Andy and Elaina, along with many other staff members, have remained connected to the school even after moving on from their roles as principals. This commitment from staff has been crucial, with most of us staying for at least three years, and many for five or more. It’s created a staff community where people feel invested.

How can parents help their local school be successful? Two of the ways parents can really help—and that we’ve already seen great results from—is sharing their experience with people in their community, because that creates opportunities for other people to find out about our schools. And then our parent volunteers are awesome. We value them so much. They pour into our school. They love our school, and that speaks for itself when we have parents who are happy and willing to come spend their time in our building during the week. That’s an encouragement to us teachers that we have something special. How do you integrate the mission of MCA into everything you do? We’re always seeking to grow in it. We have a yearly theme that matches our mission statement of “Know Christ, Share Love, Serve Others.” We choose a verse for each year that encapsulates one portion of that theme, and then we have a theme song that goes with it. We memorize the Bible verse together as a school—do that every week at assembly on Wednesdays—and then during chapel on Fridays we sing our theme song. We refer back to the theme often, plan projects throughout the year and field trips that match with the specific focus for the year. Our theme for this year is serving others, and our verse is 1 Peter 4:10, talking about how God has given each of us gifts we can share with other people and that we don’t just keep them to ourselves. Could you share a memorable experience you have had with a student? Last school year I was sitting with two girls who were having a friendship issue. I sat and talked with them for about an hour and we prayed, and they just opened up to me. At the end one of the girls said, “Wow, I think that’s the longest conversation I’ve ever had with a teacher.” It meant so much to me that she was willing to take that kind of leap and sit and share her heart with me for as long as she did. What do you share with parents thinking about enrolling students in your school? If a family chooses to enroll they’re not just sending their students to a school; they’re joining a community. They’re joining a family. They’re partnering with teachers who will cheer for and invest in their children for many years, who will call them their kids and who will always be excited to see them.

Education Scholarships and Endowments in Mid-America Central States Conference

Traven Bryant—V. Lindsay Christian Education Fund: The Traven Bryant Scholarship Fund aims to support families with financial difficulties who wish to provide their children with a quality Adventist education at the V. Lindsay Seventh-day Adventist School in Kansas City. Donations may be made online at: adventistgiving.org/donate/ ANG444 or mailed to the Central States Conference at PO Box 4150, Kansas City, KS 66104. Please indicate that your donation is for the Traven Bryant—V. Lindsay Christian Education Fund.

Dakota Conference

The Dakota Conference offers a scholarship for any South Dakota member to help with attending Dakota Adventist Academy. We also have a scholarship for any Dakota student to assist with attending any Adventist college. Learn more at www.dakotaadventist.org. Donate at adventistgiving.org/donate/ANG666.

Kansas-Nebraska Conference

The conference offers two types of scholarships: Boarding School Scholarships The Woody Scholarship Learn about eligibility and requirements at www.ks-ne.org/ scholarships. Donate by going to adventistgiving.org/donate/ ANGFFF.

Iowa-Missouri Conference

The Student Financial Assistance Fund helps four out of five students who attend Sunnydale Adventist Academy. Donors are needed who are willing to give $50 to $100 or more monthly in order to continue to meet student needs. For more information visit imsda.org. Donate by going to adventistgiving.org/donate/ANGBB1.

Minnesota Conference

The conference offers two types of scholarships: Maplewood Academy Worthy Student Fund Daniel Honoré Education Endowment Learn more at mnsda.com and to donate go to adventistgiving.org/donate/ANGIII.

Rocky Mountain Conference

To learn about the education assistance fund contact the conference at www.rmcsda.org. To donate go to adventistgiving.org/donate/ANGMMM.

Read the full interview at outlookmag.org/vanessa-pujic. For more information visit MCA’s website, minnetonkachristian.com, or contact Vanessa: vpujic@ minnetonkachristian.com.

Support Grows

for social emotional learning

ccording to the Center for Disease Control, between 5.5 and 6 million children aged 3-17 years were diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety and/or behavior problems between 2016-2019. Often, these conditions occur together; for example, about one in three children with anxiety also had behavior problems, and one in three also had depression.* “The children’s mental health crisis is increasing by the day,” says Mindy Salyers, licensed school counselor and founder of Counseltation, a nonprofit combining school counseling with an on-demand consultation model. For eight years, starting in 2013, Salyers partnered with Versacare through La Sierra University Center for Conflict Resolution to bring counseling services to Adventist schools. In 2021 she founded Counseltation, and now partners with conferences across the North American Division to bring mental healthcare to schools. “We have partnered with 19 conferences so far,” Salyers shares. “Versacare, which has a history of being very supportive of Adventist education, has funded many of those.”

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Versacare grants are not a silver bullet; they are a starting place. The grants provide seed money, and each subsequent year for up to three years the schools are expected to provide an increasing amount of the necessary funds to utilize Counseltation’s services.

And the need for those services is great. “There’s not one school that doesn’t need support for social emotional learning, and that’s just 10 percent of it,” says Diane Harris, superintendent of education for Rocky Mountain Conference, and a licensed professional clinical counselor. “The rest is helping our students navigate and gain tools for how to deal with stress, anxiety, peer pressure and social media.” Counseltation provides services and resources for teachers, students and families. This includes not only regular newsletters with helpful tips and links related to mental and emotional well-being, but also one-on-one counseling with principals, teachers and students. In addition, Counseltation helps schools create academic accommodation plans, presents seminars and workshops and helps

presents an interactive topic and gets the students engaged so they can learn how to take care of themselves and how to help others.” A unique aspect of what Counseltation provides is a spreadsheet of social emotional learning scope and sequence, which ties the various worksheets and topics they provide to specific Bible verses, matching Bible It’s not just before and course units, and relevant during a crisis that educational requirements Counseltation helps from the NAD. teachers; they assist with “We’re helping kids gain the aftermath, as well. skills and gain understanding about their bodies and brains “Teachers often question and hearts,” Salyers says. themselves,” Salyers says. “They wonder if they did the “Being able to contextualize this in a biblical way is the right thing, if they did the student a disservice, and what fun part.” will happen to the student Becky St. Clair is a freelance if the teacher isn’t providing writer. stability for them. We help teachers process all those *https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmendoubts so they come to trust talhealth/data.html themselves more.” Read the full story at Through Counseltation, outlookmag.org/socialteachers have access to emotional-learning grade-specific classroom worksheets on topics such as blurting, tattling vs. reportFor more ing, managing feelings, information conflict vs. bullying, peer on how you can create pressure, social connection, a culture of mental consent and more. health and wellness “We’ve just started virtual for your own school, weekly social emotional learning lessons with Mindy,” contact Counseltation says Marsha Bartulec, princi- at mindysalyers@ pal of Vista Ridge Academy counseltation.com. in Erie, Colorado. “She teachers handle specific situations with greater understanding and skill. “It’s such a vast need to know how to manage crises,” Salyers says. “Everything from how to deal with panic attacks in kids, to kids who are a safety risk to themselves and others. You don’t get this in your elementary education degree.”

MID-AMERICA UNION NEWS

Courtesy Carisa Carr

Carisa Carr to Serve as MAUC Associate Director of Education

arisa Carr has accepted the invitation of the Mid-America Union Executive Committee to serve as associate director of education for the union, effective Jan. 1, 2024. Carr is filling the position previously held by Gerard Ban, who is retiring on Dec. 31, 2023. “We are thrilled to have Carisa join the education team,” said MAUC Office of Education director LouAnn Howard. “She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our union. We thank God that she has accepted

this invitation to minister in Mid-America.” Education, Experience, Accomplishments Carr brings experience as a preschool teacher, elementary school teacher and principal. In addition, she most recently served as associate director of Early Childhood Education for the North Pacific Union Conference since 2020. Carisa (Retzer) Carr graduated from Union College with a B.S. in psychology. She then earned a Master of Arts in

Early Childhood Education from East Tennessee State University. Carr is also a certified Academic Language Therapist and a Literacy Intervention specialist. She holds a Professional Teaching Certificate from the North American Division with multiple endorsements. Carr holds professional affiliations with the Academic Language Therapy Association, the Colorado Council of International Reading Association, and is a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. She has presented at both virtual and in-person conferences multiple times during the past few years, including the NAD Educators Convention in Phoenix in August 2023. Committees Carr has served on include the Georgia-Cumberland Conference Curriculum Instruction and Assessment Committee, the North Pacific Union Curriculum Committee, and the North American Division Early Childhood Education Summer Committee. “I am excited to be back home in MAUC where I have had the privilege to spend the majority of my own education experience from kindergarten through college,” said Carr. “God has placed the call on my heart

“We are thrilled to have Carisa join the education team. She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our union.” —LouAnn Howard, MAUC director of education

to serve and collaborate with our conference education leadership as they develop educators with a passion for excellence in education and share the love of Jesus each day with students.” Carisa and her husband, Craig, have two adult children. Their son, Christian, is in the Air Force and their daughter, Cassie, is married to Blake Unsell. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, music, reading and baking. Brenda Dickerson is communication director for the Mid-America Union Conference.

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NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY* All schools operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church admit students of any race to all the privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools, and makes no discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnic background, gender or country of origin in the administration of education policies, applications for admission, scholarship or loan programs, and extracurricular programs. Mid-America Union

Union College 3800 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE 68506 | 402.486.2600 www.ucollege.edu

Central States Conference

V. Lindsay Seventh-day Adventist School (PreK-8) 3310 Garfield Ave., Kansas City, KS 66104 | 913.342.4435 vlindsayschool.org vlindsay@vlindsayschool.org

Dakota Conference

Dakota Adventist Academy (9-12) 15905 Sheyenne Circle, Bismarck, ND 58503 701.258.9000 | mydaa.org info@mydaa.org Brentwood Adventist Christian School (K-8) 9111 Wentworth Dr., Bismarck, ND 58503 701.258.1579 | mybrentwood. org | brentwoodsdaschool@ gmail.com Hillcrest Adventist Elementary School (K-8) 116 15th Ave. NE, Jamestown, ND 58401 | 701.252.5409 hillcrestnd.org | info@ hillcrestnd.org Invitation Hill Adventist School (K-8) 10730 Hwy. 10, Dickinson, ND | 58601 701.483.2050 | dickinsonnd. adventistschoolconnect.org invitationhillschool@gmail.com Prairie Voyager Adventist School (1-8) 3610 Cherry St., Grand Forks, ND 58201 | 701.775.5936

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grandforkschurch.com/school pvoyager@yahoo.com

660.263.8600 | maranatha22. adventistschoolconnect.org

Rapid City Adventist Elementary School (K-8) 1636 Concourse Ct., Rapid City, SD 57703 605.343.2785 | rapidcitysd. adventistschoolconnect.org rcsdaschool@gmail.com

Muscatine Adventist Christian School (1-8) 2904 Mulberry Ave., Muscatine, IA 52761 563.263.3362 | muscatine22. adventistschoolconnect.org

Iowa-Missouri Conference

Sunnydale Adventist Academy (9-12) 6818 Audrain Rd. 9139, Centralia, MO 65240 573.682.2164 | sunnydale.org info@sunnydale.org J.N. Andrews Christian Academy (PreK-8) 2773 Edgewood Rd., Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 319.393.1664 | andrewsca.org k-8@andrewsca.org College Park Christian Academy (PreK-8) 1114 College Park Dr., Columbia, MO 65203 573.445.6315 | cpchristian. org | colsda@gmail.com Des Moines Adventist School (PreK-8) 2317 Watrous Ave., Des Moines, IA 50321 515.285.7729 | dmsdaschool.org Hillcrest Seventh-day Adventist School (K-9) 9777 Grandview Dr., Olivette, MO 63132 314.993.1807 | hillcrest23. adventistschoolconnect.org Maranatha Adventist School (K-8) 1400 E. McKinsey St., Moberly, MO 65270

Nevada Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School (K-8) 324 S. 6th St., Nevada, IA 50201 | nevada23. adventistschoolconnect.org 515.215.1092 | nevada23. adventistschoolconnect.org Prescott SDA School (1-8) 1405 Weisenborn Rd., St. Joseph, MO 64507 816.866.3041 | prescottstjoe.org Sedalia Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School (1-8) 29531 Hwy. 50, Sedalia, MO 65301 | 660.826.8951 sedaliasdachurchschool.org Springfield Seventh-day Adventist Junior Academy (PreK-8) 704 S. Belview, Springfield, MO 65802 417.862.0833 | springfield23 adventistschoolconnect.org Summit View Adventist School (PreK-8) 12503 S. State Route 7, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816.697.3443 | leessummitmo. adventistschoolconnect.org Sunnydale Adventist Elementary School (K-8) 6979 Audrain Rd. 9139, Centralia, MO 65240 573.682.2811 | centraliamo. adventistschoolconnect.org

Kansas-Nebraska Conference College View Academy (K-12) 5240 Calvert St., Lincoln, NE 68506 | 402.483.1181 cvak12.org

Midland Adventist Academy (K-12) 6915 Maurer Rd., Shawnee, KS 66217 | 913.268.7400 midlandacademy.org | maa@ midlandacademy.org George Stone School (K-8) 3800 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE 68506 402.486.2896 | george23. adventistschoolconnect.org Great Bend Adventist School (K-8) 7 SW 30th Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530 620.793.9247 | greatbend22. adentistschoolconect.org High Plains Christian School (K-8) 2710 N. Fleming St., Garden City, KS 67846 | 620.275.9356 high23.adventistschool connect.org Omaha Memorial Adventist School (K-8) 840 N. 72nd St., Omaha, NE 68114 | 402.397.4642 omahamemorialadventistschool.org Three Angels Adventist School (K-8) 4558 N. Hydraulic Ave., Wichita, KS 67219 316.832.1010 threeangelsschool.org Topeka Adventist Christian School (1-8) 2431 SW Wanamaker Rd., Topeka, KS 66614

785.272.9474 | topeka22. adventistschoolconnect.org Valley View Adventist School (1-8) 415 W. 31st St., Scottsbluff, NE 69361 | 308.632.8804 valleyview25.adventistschoolconnect.org Wichita Adventist Christian Academy (K-10) 2725 S. Osage Ave., Wichita, KS 67217 316.267.9472 | angf96. adventistschoolconnect.org wacaprincipal@yahoo.com

Minnesota Conference

Maplewood Academy (9-12) 700 Main St. N., Hutchinson, MN 55350 | 320.587.2830 maplewoodacademy.org info@maplewoodacademy.org Anoka Adventist Christian S chool (K-8) 1035 Lincoln St., Anoka, MN 55303 | 763.421.6710 anokaacs.org Blackberry SDA School (1-8) 25321 Dove Ln., Grand Rapids, MN 55744 | 218.326.2263 blackberryschool.org Capital City Adventist Christian School (PreK-8) 1220 S. McKnight Rd. S., St. Paul, MN 55119 | 651.739.7484 ccacschool.org Detroit Lakes Adventist Christian School (1-8) 404 Richwood Rd., Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 218.846.9764 | angil5. adventistschoolconnect.org Maranatha Adventist Christian School (K-8) 414 3rd Ave. SW, Dodge Center, MN 55927 507.374.6353 | angi65. adventistschoolconnect.org

Minnetonka Christian Academy (PreK-10) 3520 Williston Rd., Minnetonka, MN 55345 | 952.935.4497 minnetonkachristian.com Northwoods Elementary School (PreK-8) 95 Academy Ln. NW, Hutchinson, MN 55350 | 320.234.5994 northwoodselemetary.org Oak Street Christian School (1-8) 2910 Oak St., Brainerd, MN 56401 | 218.828.9660 oakstreetchristian.org Rochester Adventist Elementary (K-8) 1100 37th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901 507.289.2589 | rochestermn. adventistschoolconnect.org Southview Christian School (PreK-9) 15304 County Rd. 5, Burnsville, MN 55306 952.898.2727 | scsmn.org Stone Ridge SDA Christian School (1-8) 115 E. Orange St., Duluth, MN 55811 | 218.722.7535 christianschools.com/schools/ stone-ridge-christianschool-27012.htm

Rocky Mountain Conference

Adventist Christian School (K-8) 612 23rd Ave., Greeley, CO 80634 970.353.2770 | greeley22. adventistschoolconnect.org Brighton Adventist Academy (PreK-10) 820 S. 5th Ave., Brighton, CO 80601 | 303.659.1223 baaconnect.org | info@ baaconnect.org Cortez Seventh-day Adventist School (K-8) 540 W. 4th St., Cortez, CO 81321 970.565.8257 | cortez22. adventistschoolconnect.org Delta Seventh-day Adventist School (K-8) 762 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416 | PO Box 91, Delta, CO 81416 | 970.339.3232 | delta22. adventistschoolconnect.org Discover Christian School (K-8) 5509 Sagebrush St. Farmington, NM 87402 | 505.325.5875 discoverchristianschool.org Fort Collins Christian School (PreK-8) 2040 Nancy Gray Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80525 970.222.6437 fortcollinschristianschool.org admin@fcchristianschool.com

Campion Academy (9-12) 300 SW 42nd St. SW, Loveland, Fort Morgan Lighthouse SDA Christian School (1-8) CO 80537 970.667.5592 | campion.net info@campion.net PO Box 860, Fort Morgan, CO 80701 | 970.370.2275 lighthousesdaMile High Adventist christianschool.org | office@ Academy (PreK-12) lighthousesda.com 1733 Dad Clark Dr., Highlands Ranch, CO Four-Mile Adventist School (K-8) 80126 | 303.744.1069 milehighacademy.org | info@ 3180 E. Main St., Cañon City, CO 81212 | 719.275.6111 milehighacademy.org canonchristian.com

H.M.S. Richards Seventh-day Adventist School (K-8) 342 SW 42nd St., Loveland, CO 80537 | 970.667.2427 hmsrichards.org | info@ hmsrichards.com Intermountain Adventist Academy (K-10) 550 25½ Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505 | 970.242.5116 iaagj.com | grandjunction christianschool.com Mason Christian Academy (K-8) 723 Storey Blvd., Cheyenne, WY 82009 | 307.638.2457 lemca.org Mountain Road Christian Academy (K-8) 2657 Casper Mountain Rd., Casper, WY 82601 Mail: 2946 Prairie Ln., Bar Nunn, WY 82601 | 307.235.2859 mountainroadchristian academy.com SonShine Academy (K-8) 660 S. 17th St., Worland, WY 82401 | Mail: PO Box 433, Worland, WY 82401 | 307.800.1022 sonshinebrightly@gmail.com sonshine-academy.org Springs Adventist Academy (K-8) 5410 E. Palmer Park Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719.597.0155 | saak8info@ gmail.com | saak8.org Vista Ridge Academy (PreK-8) 3100 Ridgeview Dr., Erie, CO 80516 | 303.828.4944 vistaridge.org | hello@ vistaridge.org *Published annually in compliance with NAD policy

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CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE

Community Outreach Leads to Wedding

n Sabbath, Aug. 19, 2023 the New Community Church witnessed the marital union of Jessica Taylor and Rashid Muhammad, which was the result of outreach efforts led by outreach coordinator Elder Joe Smittick. Here is the story as told by Smittick: We started with the standard neighborhood survey. Surveys open the doors for conversation that help us get to know each household and their specific needs. Because New Community is a small church with limited resources, we have been able to lean on the city

Photos Courtesy Central States Conference

of Denver to find solutions for food, rent assistance and jobs. By providing information regarding availability of these resources, we have won friendships. After completing the survey, a couple asked what day we

go to church. Jessica immediately let us know she has been looking for a Saturday church. That following Saturday she and her children were in attendance. They also started the Amazing Facts Bible study. After a couple months of attendance, they let me and Brother Keith Reid know they were going to the Justice of the Peace to get married because of limited finances. We said they could be married at our church for free. After communicating with the head elder and other members of the church board, the church sprung into action

to make this event a memorable one. The New Community Church has been operating without a pastor, so Pastor E.C. Polite from the Parkhill Church was contacted to conduct the ceremony. He agreed, and the rest is history. Ian Francis is communication director for the New Community Church in Colorado.

Learn more about New Community Church at www. newcommunitysdachurch.org.

“When the Church Comes to Town” Promoting liberty, pursuing justice

ueled by the organizational mission “to transform communities surrounding local churches by ensuring freedom of justice and conscience,” the Conscience and Justice Council hosted their eighth annual convention Sept. 28-Oct. 1, 2023. “When the Church Comes to Town: Promoting Liberty, Pursuing Justice” was the theme. Held on the campus of the North American Division in Maryland, the convention was a gathering of social justice visionaries and thought leaders. The weekend included a synergy of activities for attendees whom Pastor Gary Wimbish, vice president of administration for the Allegheny East Conference, called “disciples of democracy.” Encouraging the work of the “disciples” was

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a soul-stirring sermon on Friday evening by Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches. Bishop McKenzie drew the attendees into her message with a thoughtful question: Do you understand your assignment? Anchoring her message in Luke 11:910, McKenzie called on the audience to do as the Lord requires to seek justice and defend the oppressed. “God’s Word is your assignment,” said McKenzie. You must “knock on the locked doors” of those who have the “means and

resources.” Helping those in need is an opportunity. McKenzie admonished the audience to persist. “The door of denial” can become a “door of breakthrough.” Sponsored by the Office for Regional Conference Ministry, the speaker for the Sabbath service was Dr. Paula Olivier, director of youth and young adult ministries for the Northeastern Conference. Encouraging the audience to testify of the “awesomeness of God,” Pastor Olivier encouraged an active Christian life. “Your authentic worship ... is measured by what happens

when you leave worship. Are you self-centered or Christcentered?” she asked. “There is no such thing as a Jesus without Justice.” It is important for church folk to be Christ-centered activists. One of the highlights of this powerful weekend was the Best Practices Tour, where attendees were able to visit Safe Streets Sandtown. This is one of Baltimore’s flagship gun violence reduction programs. Edward Woods III, CJC chairperson, said, “We praise God for the talented speakers and presenters who provided tools, resources and best practices for attendees to implement in their local community surrounding their church.” Dr. Ramona L. Hyman is a professor, writer and speaker living in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition, she serves as a Governor’s Appointee for the Alabama Arts Council.

Central States Conference: Review of 2023 and a look into 2024

s we stand on the brink of 2024, it fills us with gratitude to witness the continuous blessings bestowed upon us in the Central States Conference. Our churches are holding their own, and our financial standing is on an upward trajectory. As we step into the new year, our guiding theme is “COMMITTED!”—a testament to our unwavering dedication to God’s work in the Midwest and the establishment of healthy, Bible-based, multicultural communities of faith. Committed to operational excellence In the capable hands of Mrs. Kelley Paris, our Treasury Department has excelled in its responsibilities. Notable achievements include a year-to-date tithe increase of 3.47 percent through October 2023, and receiving an unmodified opinion from our 2022 audit (the best rating).

Undergoing a transformative phase, we are actively working on automating systems within the Treasury Department. Louinie Louissant, our business intern supported by North American Division, made a significant impact during her year with us before embarking on a new chapter in her life—marriage. Welcoming consultants Phyllis Ware-Lee, Elaine Hagele and the recent addition of Nancy Jones as an accounting consultant reflects our commitment to operational excellence. The engagement of Nelson Account for our church audits signifies a promising journey toward completion by mid-2024. Our aim is to enhance efficiency by transitioning to Automated Clearing House (electronic money transfers between banks) for 100 percent of funds and remittances.

Council Bluffs, Iowa. Pastor Tomas DeGyves, our multicultural director, has played a pivotal role in this success. Notably, the Claremont Adventist Church in Pueblo, Colorado, merged with the Palace of Peace Church in Colorado Springs, reflecting strategic decisions to further our mission. Elder G. Alexander Bryant, NAD president, graced our territory by conducting a successful evangelistic meeting in Springfield, Missouri, last fall. The Providence Church there experienced a revival, witnessing 21 individuals giving their hearts to Christ, resulting in 18 baptisms and three professions of faith.

fourth initiative, recognizing its significance in maximizing our impact for the Lord. 5. Lastly, healthy pastor families form the fifth initiative, acknowledging the profound impact of well-adjusted pastoral families on the church. We invite your prayers as we embark on our mission across the Midwest, and in turn we offer our prayers for the work across the MidAmerica territory. Together, let us commit to a year of steadfast dedication and growth. Roger A. Bernard is president of the Central States Conference.

Five key initiatives

Cryston Josiah is vice president of administration for the Central States Conference.

Looking ahead, we are driven by five key initiatives in the Central States Conference.

Kelley Paris is vice president of finance for the Central States Conference.

Membership growth

1. The first is Christian education—aiming for increased As of now, our membership enrollment, preparing our stands at 9,318 distributed scholars not only for this across 55 congregations, 35 world, but for the world to churches and 20 companies. come. In 2023, we welcomed 213 2. The second, evangelism, new members, comprising 87 seeks to cultivate a culture baptisms, 73 professions of of winning souls for Jesus faith, 41 transfers in and 12 within our churches. membership adjustments. 3. The third initiative focuses The growth of our conon youth and young adult ference, particularly in the engagement, valuing their Hispanic work, is evident active involvement in the with two new congregations church. in Freemont, Nebraska, and 4. Debt elimination is our

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DAKOTA CONFERENCE

From Boring to Blessings Sabbath school with Miss Kim n 1993, Kim Boyko and her family returned to North Dakota and found a spiritual home in the Bismarck Adventist Church. However, the church’s combined cradle roll/ kindergarten program left Kim’s three-year-old daughter unimpressed, deeming Sabbath school “boring.” This prompted Kim to grapple with God’s call to teach for six months. In the end, she heeded the call and began to teach the cradle roll class for children ages 0-5. “Miss Kim”—as she’s affectionately known—has transformed the cradle roll classroom in the Bismarck Church into a bustling community of parents and kids. She rotates her classroom only three times a year because she knows how much kids at that age enjoy repetition. Just like they enjoy the routine of reading the same book every single night, they like to come into Sabbath school and know how the program will go. The kids come away singing catchy songs, learning how to pray and teaching their friends about what a tapir eats or that

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another name for an eggplant is an aubergine! Kim’s classroom is most noticeable because of the large tree that dominates half of her room. In 2000, Kim, along with the help of Jim and Richelle Rickard and Keith and Andrea Nelson, wrote her first Sabbath school program about the rainforest. Throughout the program, there are 10 original songs about all the wonderful creatures God created in the rainforest! The kids—and parents—learn about poison dart frogs, tapirs, crocodiles and so much more. Kim’s nature-focused programs help children learn about the wondrous world God has made while also learning about the character of Christ. Kim uses a variety of props, puppets and toys to make each of her programs come alive. She takes care to include even the smallest babies by handing out finger puppet bats or cardboard harps to the parents holding the youngest in attendance. Kim believes the smaller the child, the larger the props should be, which is why you can find a six-foot-tall giraffe,

Ashley Hansen

ants the size of a grown man’s foot, a mansion in heaven big enough for kids to walk through, and the legendary camel that each child gets a chance to ride on every year during the Christmas season. Lynsey Mize, mother of two, reflects, “My girls loved [Miss Kim]; she always gave them big hugs and talked to them about whatever they wanted to babble about. She made sure that no matter how many kids there were, everyone got to ride the camel or be baby Moses in the basket. I also made mom friendships through that Sabbath school that are still so meaningful to me. It was just such a wonderful time that she facilitated for us— kids and parents.” Kim has dedicated three

decades to creating a vibrant and inclusive learning community for the youngest members of the Bismarck Church. Her creativity, commitment and care have left an indelible mark on both parents and children. As she prepares to unveil a new program about the wildlife of Africa, she encourages anyone who sees a need within the church to reach out and fill it. Her story serves as a reminder that pursuing one’s passion and purpose can lead to a lifetime of profound impact and fulfillment. Ashley (Boyko) Hansen is a mother, wife, baker, small business owner, and a former three-year-old daughter who found Sabbath school boring.

Dakota Conference: God provides

lessings. Providence. Abundance. I believe each of us reading this would acknowledge that we believe God provides, at least in principle. Yet so often in our day-to-day reality, it is easy to live as if whatever is going to happen depends upon me. I must get up; I must go to work; I must do my job; I must pay my bills, and on and on. While I could speak into those assumptions (and please believe me when I say that in my own life, I am striving to be more conscious that it is God who wakens me day by day), it is God who has provided me with my work opportunities. It is God who has given me the skills and insights needed for my job. It is God who has entrusted to me resources that can be used to care for my financial necessities, and on and on. Perspective For me, perspective is vital. Everything I have is a gift from above. I must

remind myself of that regularly, and as I look back on my life and reflect on God’s provisions, all I can say is, “Thank you!” Yet there have been those times when God’s abundant provision just overwhelms. Overflows. Has been lavished out. One of the biggest needs within our churches is people. Not simply individuals who attend, but ones who are willing to be involved with ministry and lead out. In many churches, there is a shortage of people willing to say, “Here I am Lord, send me.” That same challenge exists when it comes to people responding to the call to pastoral or educational ministry. We have a growing need within our denomination for pastors and teachers. As I talk with other conference presidents, the number of open pastoral districts is significant. There are schools that could not open last fall because teachers could not be found. That is our reality. Yet in that scenario, God has provided. Abundantly. Over the past several months here in the Dakotas, we have seen this displayed. At Dakota Adventist Academy, God sent so many wonderful, dedicated people within just a couple of months. With our pastors, God has sent new pastors in the past 15 months, with four joining us last May. God has sent wonderful people our way.

Integrity, transparency, some of the fastest-growing accountability states in America—people moving in are seeking new As I reflect on this, I am opportunities. coming to certain convicThey are also people who tions. First, we must honor need to better understand God in all we do. That means both the love of Jesus and the integrity, transparency and hope we hold for eternity. We accountability must be obvi- want our youth and young ous in all that we do. adults to experience church Second, what is entrusted life in ways that are vital and to us we will use carefully and relevant to them. In too many faithfully. Our Dakota people places younger members are are some of the most genereither absent or uninvolved. ous in the country, and we Not here. In the Dakotas, will use those gifts to make a if you can drive a tractor as kingdom difference. a minor, you can serve in Third, when blessings significant ways in the church come, use them to bless as well. others. We have had several Stability and security financial windfalls, and this will help meet needs so that people can be blessed. In a world that so often Stories abound of God’s seems shaky and uncertain, provision here in the we have an opportunity to Dakotas. Looking forward, be a people of stability and we want to ensure that our security. We have the chance academy has a solid financial to be church families where foundation. As a conference, mission and ministry are the we allocate the highest perfocus, where service to others centage of our annual budget is the norm. compared to any other conWe want to be a people ference in North America to who extend the blessings, support our academy. the providence, the abunWe have generous alumni dance of God toward others but still need another revenue so that one day we will hear stream. We are focused on the words of our Savior say, growing our endowment “Well done! My good and fund. Since January 2023, faithful servants.” this fund has gone from Mark R. Weir is president of the just over $550,000 to almost Dakota Conference. $3,500,000. This is nothing other than God’s provision! We also want to intentionally focus on reaching people in our growing population areas, particularly Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Dakotas are

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IOWA-MISSOURI CONFERENCE

Des Moines Adventist School Celebrates Bus Miracle Courtesy Iowa-Missouri Conference

trips to transport students. We decided we needed a bus—something small and versatile and, above all, affordable! As many schools know, there is only a little extra money to squeeze out for a significant purchase like this. Through a very inspiring turn of events, we got this bus don’t know about you, but I you may see that God is still we needed at the right time! have always wondered why working today. I could go into a lengthy there were so many missionWe have seen a slow and theological discussion of ary stories of God working steady increase in students why God decided we needed miracles in faraway places attending our school over the this miracle now, but my key takeaway has been that “God long ago. I never seemed past few years, to the point to see God working them where we couldn’t get enough is good!” He wants us to pray! He wants to work with us! He in my school here at home. parent drivers to take all of However, I want to tell you our kids on a school field trip. wants us to align our plans of a miracle that happened Our last field trip of the 2022- with His. And He wants us to remember He is good. here at Des Moines Adventist 2023 school year saw one of “We have nothing to fear our teachers making multiple School this past summer so

for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history” (Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, p. 204). Those stories of miracles happening in far-off places and long-ago times aren’t meant to depress us about our current condition; they are meant to encourage us. They are intended to remind us that God is good. Be encouraged, continue praying and remember what God has done. Karli Kuehmichel is principal of the Des Moines Adventist School.

Sunnydale Adventist Elementary Students Experience Garden Life

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tudy in agricultural lines should be the A, B, and C of the education given in our schools” (Testimony Treasures Vol. 2, Ellen G. White). Sunnydale Adventist Elementary is using the resources available to create a regenerative agriculture program that helps students learn and apply skills in a unique and hands-on way. It started in 2020 when baby chicks were added to the lower-grade classroom. This led to adding garden space and learning

about raised bed gardens. A rotten tree provided the perfect opportunity to teach about hügelkultur and create an outdoor learning area. Seeds were planted, and little minds began to grow. The blessing of a rural setting has allowed SAE to grow more types of plants and stretch the program to other parts of campus. Sunnydale Academy’s support of this program has been a blessing as well. Personal investments from donors have enabled growth

Photos: Kirsten Mathis

from just a garden next to the school to a large section with over 300 berry plants, asparagus patches and the use of campus greenhouses to grow tomatoes and melons. As word spread, Elder Dean Coridan came to see what SAE was up to on campus and thus began another regenerative agriculture project: adding a campus orchard. Adding fruit trees meant the need for equipment to work the soil. Tractors are an investment, and our program is working on gathering funds to add the necessary equipment. In the meantime, Sydenstricker-Nobbe Partners was willing to provide loaned tractors for us to prepare the orchard areas. Kim Sydenstricker stated, “Agriculture is important for youth to be involved in because they learn where their

food comes from, how the planting and harvesting process works and how to care for the crops once they are in the ground. The hands-on experience helps them understand the importance of agriculture. Our hope is by providing them this opportunity, we will be cultivating future leaders in agriculture.” Kirsten Mathis teaches at Sunnydale Adventist Elementary in Missouri.

For more information or to contribute to this program, contact Kirsten Mathis at mrsmathis@ saelem.org or 817.789.8955.

Iowa-Missouri Conference: Singing praises to God “Our God is a Miracle Worker! Our God is a Promise Keeper! Our God is a Light in the Darkness!” involved in the schools and preparing for these muchloved events. In addition, we are grateful for the efforts to bring children from both church fter several recent and home schools to the opportunities to be academy for the beautiful in year-end meetings with Music Fest weekend. Sing fellow workers and to hear praises to God even now for their reports, I have been this incredible privilege! strengthened and encourBy God’s grace, we are aged. I hope you are blessed operating a full-to-theand God is glorified as brim secondary boarding we start a new year praisschool, Sunnydale Adventist ing Him for His goodness Academy. We can all praise and faithfulness to and God that He is present there. through the Iowa-Missouri We can all praise God that He Conference. is creating a family atmosphere with students who Brothers and sisters, speak no less than 24 different our God is a Way languages. We can all praise Maker! Jesus that angels are helping We are blessed this year to guide 175 youths whom God have 25 teachers and nearly has directed to this refuge to 300 students at 13 elementary find something better than a church schools throughout non-biblical worldview. our conference. Not only We can all praise Him for can we offer quality, Christthe mission-mindedness that centered education inside prevails and the gratitude in these classrooms, but we hearts planted, watered and are also blessed to provide increased by love. God made our children with instruca way to keep this boarding tion through many outdoor school open when there opportunities. seemed to be no way. The Outdoor School for We appreciate the 28 fifth and sixth-grade students staff members who partner in the fall and Junior High tirelessly with Him and all Bible School for seventh who are helping to supand eighth-grade students port Christian education at in the spring are incredibly this conference. We are all impactful. We appreciate the bettered by participating daily (and extra) work of all with God in educating His

children and youth. Our God is a Miracle Worker! We are praising Him for the successful summer camp program at Camp Heritage that had more than 400 children in attendance. Jesus was lifted high by much-appreciated staff, and decisions for Christ were manifested in decisions for baptism, enrollment in church schools and decisions for other powerful steps in discipleship. As Pathfinders everywhere prepare for the International Camporee in August of 2024, we encourage you to keep looking to God and trusting in His miracle-working power. Our God is a Promise Keeper! He not only seeks for and directs His sheep, but He feeds us. We can all praise God for the increased number of Bible workers, the stable number of pastors and elders, the adventurous magabook workers and VBS leaders, the faithful Sabbath school teachers, communication leaders, women’s and men’s ministries leaders, stewardship and trust leaders and prayer partners among us. We can all pray for more laborers for the harvest,

even as we praise the Lord of harvest for providing these much-appreciated workers. Our God is a Light in the Darkness! Two new workers in the conference’s Treasury Department tell us that our constituency is taking tithing more and more seriously, and we praise God for that faithfulness! We can continue employing workers for our conference and to help the light of the gospel spread around the world! As cherished employees have transitioned from working here, God has brought new valuable workers into our midst, and we are grateful for each one. Thank you, Jesus! “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and to him who orders his conduct aright, I will show the salvation of God” (Ps. 50:23). Today is the day of salvation. Praise the Lord! Dean Coridan is president of the Iowa-Missouri Conference.

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KANSAS-NEBRASKA CONFERENCE

Photos Courtesy Amy Finch

CVA’s Read-a-thon Meets a Need Fire Relief Fund.” To kick off the read-a-thon day, Principal Casey Prindle had worship with the students. He read from a book that taught that one of the best gifts we can give to Jesus is our time. Then, for the next several hours that’s exactly what the students did. Weeks earlier students had gone around asking friends, family and acquaintances to sponsor their participation in the read-a-thon. Each student was given a “Reading Passport.” On the passport were a number of activities randma, Grandpa, I they were to accomplish have something really throughout the morning. important that I need to ask Some of the activities you.” The door to Grandma included the following: read and Grandpa’s house had with a flashlight, read outside, been opened by a very sincere and serious six-year-old read with a stuffed animal. boy. “Will you please sponsor The day also included several me so I can help the people in guest readers, buddy reading, Hawaii who were in the fire?” YouTube stories and reading You can be sure Grandma stories on tablets. The money collected and Grandpa were more than willing to help the little was sent to the Hawaii Conference of Seventh-day guy out! The teachers at Adventists. The students College View Academy are and teachers are gratetrying to focus their stuful they were able to help dents’ attention on helping provide funds to ease some others, just like Jesus did. of the suffering. It was so Last October grades K-5 participated in a read-a-thon exciting when the students to raise money for the “Maui used Zoom to talk to Erik

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VanDenburgh, Hawaii Conference president. His eyes got really big, and everyone erupted with joy and astonishment when Mrs. Finch, the second grade teacher, announced that over $7,840 had been raised. Pastor VanDenburgh showed the students pictures of the destruction throughout the area. All were amazed when they saw a picture of a whole neighborhood burned to the ground except one building—the Adventist church. It had been spared with little to no damage. Even the interior was free from the smell of smoke. Families have found refuge

in this miracle church. The money raised will be used to help support the children of these families in order to attend the Adventist school in the area. The students and teachers at College View Academy know that Jesus is pleased they gave of their time in helping others. Kirk Powell is a retired CVA teacher and current volunteer outreach coordinator for CVA’s K-5 team.

Students at College View Academy in Lincoln, Nebraska, raised nearly $8,000 to help support the education of children in Hawaii following the tragic wildfires. Courtesy Amy Finch

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Kansas-Nebraska Conference: Accomplishing mission requested by local congregations and are used in so many creative ways to reach those around them. Events include traditional evangelistic meetings, community events and Bible study materials.

t is with gratitude and humility that we look at God’s amazing blessings across our territory during this past year. The deep dedication of our pastors and teachers along with the faithful members across our two states has enabled God to advance the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Evangelism The ultimate reason we exist is to share the love of Jesus with whomever God brings into our path, whether inside the church or in our communities. This remains our top priority. Nearly 300 individuals joined our congregations by baptism or profession of faith during 2023. Each one is a child of God who has found love and grace. These are the results of committed Adventists sharing their faith. The conference commits over $200,000 each year to evangelism. These funds are

the roof! Our Pathfinder and Adventurer clubs continue to grow. The hard work of the local leaders is driven by their love for the youth, and it’s paying off. Hundreds of our Pathfinders will be in Adventist education Gillette, Wyoming, in August 2024 to join over 50,000 We are thrilled to watch our enrollment increase again other Pathfinders from around the world. this year with 533 young In addition, attendance at people receiving an Adventist our youth and young adult education in one of our 10 rallies has skyrocketed this conference schools. The year! At these events they dedication of each teacher is meet other Adventist young changing the lives of these people from across the conchildren and youth. ference and are challenged Adventist education may seem expensive, but the eter- and inspired with messages and dialogue relevant to nal benefits are beyond any their lives. earthly value. The teachers at our Garden City (Kansas) Children’s ministries school worked so intentionAs important as our adult ally this year with their stumembers are, we are comdents that 12 were baptized mitted to providing Christon the same Sabbath. The education each student centered experiences for receives is excellent, but the our children. New materials have been made available to spiritual experiences they our Sabbath schools. More receive are priceless. churches are conducting Youth ministries Vacation Bible Schools each summer. Dedicated parents The young people across are doing whatever they can our conference are one of to be certain their children our greatest assets. Because understand the love of Jesus. of that, every investment we make in them is worth it. Faithful stewardship This year there were nearly When one considers that 200 decisions for Christ made the millions of dollars it takes at summer camp at Broken Arrow Ranch. Studies clearly to fund all these things comes reveal that when young peo- voluntarily from the 12,000 plus members in our conferple choose Jesus before the age of 16, the chances of them ence, it is truly a miracle. It is estimated that during staying true to that decision 2023 our members gave over as a young adult go through

$20 million through tithes, local church giving, world missions, etc. because they believe in the mission of the Adventist Church. The tithe, which supports our pastors, teachers and evangelism in our conference as well as around the world, continues to go up each year. The conference, as well as each local church and school board, carefully, prayerfully and strategically decide how to use these funds to their greatest kingdom potential. The future As we move into another year, our mission has not changed. We will pray for the continued presence of God’s Holy Spirit so we are able to work within His will and plans. As our pastors, teachers and church members rally around this mission and press together as a united body, God will be able to accomplish His will in Kansas-Nebraska. Ron Carlson is president of the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

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MINNESOTA CONFERENCE

How I Became an Adventist Teacher

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big plans for myself and confidence in my future. In high school, I studied in a top-notch school in Manila. Competition was tough, as every year the school only accepted 150 students out of over 2,000 applicants. Students had to continuously defend their spot by passing the school’s rigid retention policy. In 2013, a year before I graduated from high school, my classmates and I would go “university hopping” to help us decide the direction of our college career. I remember my eyes were set on only one school—the University of the Philippines (like Harvard). I excitedly filled out the application, indicating my top two preferred programs: Accountancy or Broadcast Journalism. I chose these because I wanted to have a lot of money and I love communication. I prayed to God that if I passed the UPCAT (University of the Philippines College

Herssel Shaira A. Capobres recently moved from the Philippines to Dodge Center, Minnesota— and loves teaching!

Admission Test), I’d be a teacher someday. I just wanted to earn a lot of money first by being an accountant or a journalist! God probably found my prayer hilarious. As the Bible says, “Many are the plans in the man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” (Prov. 19:21). I was like Jonah, who was called to Nineveh but wanted to go to Tarshish instead. God had to lead me back to where He wanted me to be. Yes, I failed the UPCAT.

I was devasted, but not for long. God had to cancel my other options so He could show me clearly the path He wanted me to take. The rest is history! Herssel Shaira A. Capobres is sixth-eighth grade teacher at Maranatha Adventist School in Dodge Center, Minnesota.

Courtesy Minnesota Conference

eacher Lang? (Just a teacher?)” That is how my friends commonly reacted whenever we talked about our college plans. “Why do you want to be ‘just’ a teacher?” they would ask with astonishment mixed with dismay. I come from a family of teachers. My mom, two aunts and three uncles are teachers. Growing up, our family deeply instilled in us the value of education. I have always loved learning and sharing what I know with others. But being a teacher is very undervalued back home in the Philippines. People perceive it as an unlucrative job which requires long hours and hard labor. Well, they aren’t wrong. However, God has an interesting way of calling people to ministry. I remember when I was a little girl, I loved playing teacher with my dolls, and when I was nine years old the Branch Sabbath school leader asked me if I would tell a story to the kids in the community. Oh, how I was so thrilled to say “Yes!” I grew up being involved in the children’s ministry of our church. My mom, the coordinator, brought me to her conferences where I heard more about programs and improving the ministry. Despite all my experience with children, I had

Minnesota Conference: Looking toward the future in general terms here is what it would look like. Considering the increasing shortage of Adventist pastors and teachers in North America, Minnesota plans to begin an intentional emphasis on producing quality pastors, teachers, missionaries and tentmakers. In terms of mission, there is something for everyone, including those willing to intentionally use he state of the Minnesota their careers for ministry, Conference in terms of whatever their work may be. numbers shows: The idea is to gear our activities, institutions, • a net increase of 43 memchurches, schools, camp bers in 2023 for a total of meetings and everything else 11,334; toward involving Adventists • 289 people baptized in Minnesota in mission. according to the eAdventist That means: dashboard; • a slight increase in student • for children, by planting enrollment at our schools the seeds of mission and for a total of about 400; ministry in their minds • a significant increase in from the earliest ages; campers for summer camp • for students, by sponsoring, over previous summers; mentoring and encourag• a tithe increase of 10.7 ing them to take up studies percent; and activities that can lead • and financial stability for to a lifetime of ministry; the conference as a whole. • and for adults, by promoting, training and celebratWe have much to be grateing those who transform ful for in Minnesota. their work into a primary The conference Board of mission. Trustees recently voted a Achievable goals focus for the next few years that we hope will capture the A visioning and planning imaginations of Adventists taskforce is working through in Minnesota and stimulate specific ideas. To give ourus to emphasize mission in selves some benchmarks and ways we can see and celebrate goals to work toward and celin real time. Many details ebrate, here are some ideas:. remain to be worked out, but

• What if we set a goal of sending at least 10 students to Union College as theology or education majors before our next constituency session? • What if we send at least 10 students from Minnesota as student missionaries? • What if we send at least 100 people from Minnesota on short-term mission trips in the next couple of years? • What if we send at least one family from Minnesota overseas as cross-cultural missionaries? • What if we invent a tentmaker program and enroll at least 100 people employed in secular work who want to be more intentional about making their career ministry-focused? Conference administration Such goals affect the way every aspect of the church operates. Topping the agenda for conference leaders would have to be focusing, communicating, inspiring, training, mentoring and finding funding to achieve the objectives. Churches Churches in Minnesota need to creatively broaden the standard definition of evangelism beyond just public meetings. Creativity in evangelism must become much more flexible and personal.

Schools Minnesota schools need to become laser focused on inspiring and training students to prioritize mission. Every teacher, no matter what they teach, can plan how to instill in students the reality that God calls them first and foremost to ministry, whatever their career. Families Adventist families in Minnesota are as easily caught up in secular thinking as anyone else. With such goals, families too would be inspired and taught how to become intentional ministers in their circles, and how to instill in their children from the earliest years the values and priority of ministry-centered lives. These plans distill to one word: discipleship. This was Jesus’ primary focus with His disciples as He instilled, trained, mentored and engaged them in the mission summarized in Matt. 28:19-20. We are not starting anything new in Minnesota. We are only hoping to breathe new life into God’s longterm mission by giving ourselves tangible short-term goals, which will allow us to observe and celebrate realtime progress. Jeff Scoggins is president of the Minnesota Conference.

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ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE

RMC Hosts First Outdoor School

he Rocky Mountain Conference youth ministries and education departments conducted their first joint Outdoor School event last September involving students and teachers from nine Adventist schools in its territory. “In the time I’ve been part of the RMC, we’ve never done a conference-wide Outdoor School,” stated Diane Harris, RMC education director. Glacier View Ranch in Ward, Colorado, welcomed nearly 180 students, teachers and chaperones. Excitement and laughter was heard among the 117 students in grades 5-7, and 45 students in grade 8. Harris remarked on the collaboration with Brandon Westgate, RMC youth director, and his team: “Brandon came with experience. The collaboration between both departments has been amazing and provided for an excellent

Rajmund Dabrowski

Brandon Westgate, RMC youth director, speaks with students at outdoor school. experience for our students.” Harris identified the “CHERISH” theme of RMC education as a focus for all activities at Outdoor School. Event organizers said the activities were a “witness to students who may not understand our Adventist culture.” As camp chaplain, Westgate affirmed that “God wants to have a relationship with us ... and desires to give you an opportunity to be close to Him.” Participants at both the grade 5-7 camp and the grade 8 camp who slept in tents enjoyed a variety of activities including orienteering, survival skills, fire starting, model rockets, bird and tree identification

and more. Elisa, an eighth-grade participant, commented on what she liked about camp: “I like hiking. And I like learning how to survive since I’ve never done this before. I’ve only stayed in a camper.” Zoey, another eighth-grade participant, remarked: “You’re able to make new friends and have new connections. The sponsors here are really nice, and you just have a lot of freedom here [to explore].” She added that her favorite activity was identifying plants “because you never know if there could be poison ivy or poison oak or

if you can eat that berry or not.” Benjamin, also an eighthgrade participant, said: “It’s fun to hang out with your friends in the tents. It’s a bonding experience. And it was fun to do the fire-starting activity.” Paul Negrete, RMC associate superintendent for education, reflected, “It was fun to see our students collaborate, persevere through challenges, and have deep conversations about faith and God. I’m excited to see what God will do in the lives of these extraordinary individuals.” RMCNews

Fourth Grader Is Principal for a Morning at MHA

ile High Academy saw its youngest principal yet when Ruby, a bright and enthusiastic fourth-grade student, took charge for a

Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

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memorable morning on Sept. 14, 2023. The unique opportunity was purchased by her grandmother during MHA’s Eat, Mingle & Give annual live auction event and allowed Ruby to enjoy an eventful morning in the shoes of MHA principal Andrew Carpenter. Ruby’s morning kicked off with getting her Junior Principal name badge before heading to the lower school chapel where she joined her fellow students by singing songs and listening to a worship thought by Pastor Hugo Guillen. Right after chapel, and one of the highlights of

her principal duties, she was allowed to pull the fire alarm for the school’s monthly drill. “It was fun and loud,” Ruby said and quickly added she will never pull it again unless she is asked. The adventure continued as Ruby visited the kindergarten music class then moved into the preschool/ pre-kindergarten art class. From art class, she proceeded to the cafeteria where she listened in on the upper school chapel. “I liked the upper school chapel, but I didn’t know the words to their songs,” she said. Throughout the morning,

Ruby spread joy by waving to her fellow students as she walked around campus with Mr. Carpenter. Carpenter offered his praise for Ruby’s accomplishments, stating, “Ruby fulfilled her role as junior principal exceptionally well. She thoughtfully expressed her gratitude to several of our teachers through thank you notes and warmly greeted her fellow students... Congratulations, Ruby, on a job well done.” Karrie Meyers is marketing and development coordinator at Mile High Academy.

Rocky Mountain Conference: Challenges propel us to move forward students in our 17 schools. • Filling most of the pastoral openings around the conference, which was complicated in recent years by large spikes in housing costs, especially in our Front Range. • An active conference departmental staff providing ministerial support, trust and wills services free for our constituhe Rocky Mountain ents, health and wellness Conference enters 2024 programs, communication with much for which to be workshops and assistance, thankful, even in the face women’s retreats, prayer of some real challenges that retreats, support for our face both our conference, the Spanish language work, wider church and society. assistance for local clerks Here’s some of what we are and treasurers, IT support grateful for in 2023: for our conference office and schools, religious lib• Strong academy graduaterty support, and Human ing classes totaling 52 new Resources support. alumni from Campion and • A training weekend Mile High. for new church officers • Our dedicated educators organized by Aurora working hard to implement First Church pastor Jose NAD-supported Standards Alarcon, to which all Based Learning under the Denver area churches were direction of our education invited. Our departmental leadership team. staff and numerous area • Wonderful summer camp pastors were asked to parprograms headed by our ticipate in the training. youth department leaders, • 202 new church memwhich provided not only bers joined our churches great camping experiences by mid-September 2023, for 343 young people but and as of this writing our also led to 40 baptisms. membership is 17,171, with • Churches and pastors more expected by the end investing in evangelism of 2023. again now that COVID is • For these and other behind us. blessings, we are extremely • 56 pastors leading 125 grateful for the Lord’s kindchurches and companies, ness to us! and 62 teachers leading 776

We have our struggles, too. Much discussed in recent times is the growing need for pastors and teachers as the number of ministerial and education students in our colleges has seriously dwindled. There are more openings in both ministry and education than we have available people to fill them. How will we respond? On the horizon is another significant issue to be faced. With many church leaders and financial supporters growing older, will the younger generations step in to provide the leadership and financial support the church will need to continue its work? How can we best continue to support and build up our schools? How can we help more parents see the value of a Christian education? How can we better covenant together to make our mission to the world around us our top priority in both our churches and schools? Responding to the challenges takes everyone. While we have many reasons for praise and thanksgiving, ours is a work that requires constant devotion until Jesus breaks through the clouds. There are things we can do together. For example, what if each of us kept a watchful eye out for a young person or

two in our church or school who shows early signs of a spiritual tenderness that God could one day tap to be a teacher or pastor? Why not take time to talk with them, and let them know they’d make a fine pastor or teacher one day? If there are young adults and youth in your church, why not invite them to participate in church leadership? What if each of us decided we want to make sure our churches matter to our communities? How might that impact how we spend our time, attention and resources? And finally, I’d like to ask that we all commit to making Jesus the center of all we are and do. We might disagree about one thing or another, but if we can rally together around Jesus, 2024 will bring greater blessings and growth for His kingdom. Let’s work together to make 2024 the best year yet for the Lord’s kingdom in Rocky Mountain Conference. Mic Thurber is president of the Rocky Mountain Conference.

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Why Earn a Master of Public Health at Union College?

Joseph Lee/Union College

Josh Reyes-Meiring broadens his skill set to work in developing nations

“I

never felt alive until I started working in healthcare,” said 2022 international rescue and relief graduate Josh Reyes-Meiring. Reyes-Meiring was interested in science and medicine, but until he started in the IRR program, he had no idea how exciting they could be. Now, he’s back at Union— this time as a member of the first cohort earning a Master of Public Health degree. “I chose IRR to learn the things I needed to learn without always being in a classroom staring at whiteboards and presentations,” he said. “I got genuine opportunities to help people and experiences I never would have otherwise. Public health gives me an avenue to further the skills I learned

Courtesy Union College

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and more opportunities to help my community.” Union’s new Master of Public Health degree is a two-year program designed to prepare students to improve the health of people and their communities. “Public health is about solving problems,” said Reyes-Meiring. “It’s about preparing for serious issues that are going to massively impact communities and developing solutions to them.” In the final semester of the MPH program, students complete an applied practice experience: a practicum in a public health setting designed to teach practical skills and benefit the community. ReyesMeiring has a head start on gathering practical experiences; he used the skills he learned in the IRR program

Learn more about earning a Master of Public Health at Union College, and how students can combine it with biomedical science or international rescue and relief undergraduate degrees, or a physician assistant master’s degree, and finish one year faster. Visit ucollege.edu/publichealth.

to serve his hometown of Cheyenne, Wyoming, during the biggest public health crisis of the last century. “After I got my EMT license, I got to work in an emergency room during COVID in a state that didn’t really care about the virus,” he said. “As you can imagine, there was quite the public information campaign happening, and I saw firsthand how it was implemented and how the hospital treated misinformation.” After graduating, ReyesJosh Reyes-Meiring Meiring returned to Cheyenne hopes to combine the to work as a phlebotomist. technical skills of his Because he had learned many international rescue of the skills needed during his and relief degree with time at Union, his supervisors had him hit the ground the broader scope of running. “I got to see all a master's in public different kinds of people while health to do disaster I was working there. I learned response work in hands-on how medical prodeveloping nations. fessionals work with patients He is a part of the of various backgrounds and first cohort in Union about health issues that affect College's new Master entire communities.” of Public Health degree His experiences as a phlebotomist fueled Reyesprogram. Meiring’s desire to continue

developing his career in healthcare. “I had one lady I drew blood from give me a nice card because she said it was the most painless blood draw she’d ever had,” he said. “I’ve been able to be with families in their darkest, most vulnerable moments and show them Christian kindness. I helped save children’s lives after a bus crash, worked with a baby bitten by a rattlesnake and just talked with a child in the psych ward all night. The best part of working in healthcare is knowing you’ve made small but meaningful impacts on people’s lives.” When Reyes-Meiring told the clinic where he worked that he was returning to Union, his decision received a great deal of support. He said, “I had multiple doctors there come up to me and tell me, ‘I wish I had gotten an MPH degree before I went to medical school.’” A master of public health can lead to many careers, including epidemiologist, health services manager and

UNION COLLEGE

Cracking the Code to Real-world Experience

hen you think of a computer scientist, you might envision someone coding alone in a dark room. But Michael Mecklenburg, a junior information technology and business administration major at Union College, proves that’s not the case. “Both IT and business are fast-paced and always changing,” he said. “You have to constantly get out there and learn about new things, which for me is very exciting.”

Mecklenburg is a recipient of the Nebraska Career Scholarship. Created by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, this program is designed to provide scholarships to college students pursuing high-demand careers. To receive the scholarship, students must live in Nebraska while in college and participate in a Nebraska-based career-related work experience. Mecklenburg has gone above

Scott Cushman/Union College

Michael Mecklenburg has discovered the value of pursuing as many internships as possible.

biostatistician. Reyes-Meiring is exploring what a future in public health will mean for him. “I’d like to do something where I can go overseas or work in disaster response,” he said. “This degree is for people who enjoy the idea of impacting the communities they serve. It has a broader focus than just one patient and allows the full impact of

providers to be seen throughout their work. It’s perfect for the problem solvers who wish to prevent incidents from occurring instead of picking up the pieces afterward. I can’t wait to see how this program grows,” added Reyes-Meiring. Stories on these pages were written by Annika Cambigue, a senior communication and English major at Union College.

and beyond, landing not just one, but two internships at local businesses. “The summer before my sophomore year, I worked at Sandhills Global as a help desk support and corporate IT guy. Then last summer, I worked for First National Bank of Omaha. That was a huge opportunity for me since only three intern applicants out of over 100 were accepted. I got to do a lot of things there, like system administration. “I’ve learned a lot at my internships. I can apply the things I learn in my classes, and then I get more out of the experience. And vice versa: when I come back to classes after my internships, I have a deeper understanding of why we’re learning what we’re learning. Internships are the best thing in the world and I think that everyone should try to have as many as possible.” Brent Page, director of the Computer Science Program, encourages students to get as much relevant work experience as they can. “I like to remind students that we’re going to work with real people,” Page said. “We’re not a group that gets the luxury of hiding in a dark room and not having to talk with anyone. Being able to interact with people and figure out what solutions are able to fit their needs can be very rewarding.” Often college students studying computer science

don’t complete an internship until the summer between junior and senior year, but Union does things differently. “We’re designing the program in a way so that students are ready to start internships between their freshman and sophomore year,” Page said. “Michael is a good example of a student who’s taken advantage of multiple internship opportunities to make what he learns in class more relevant.” Union’s computer science and information technology majors spend a lot of their time creating models and assessing situations they might actually see in the workplace. “I really appreciate that we’re not just sitting in lectures and watching PowerPoints; instead we’re actually practicing for the real world,” said Mecklenburg. Not only is Mecklenburg already thinking about where he’ll intern next summer, but he’s also planning for after college. “When I graduate, I want to work for a managed service provider, which is an organization that provides IT support to multiple companies. After a few years, I’d like to start my own business—an MSP of my own, or a consulting firm. I’ve even thrown around the idea of becoming a sales engineer. I feel prepared for any job I would want to take on.”

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ADVENTHEALTH

CMI Specialists: A Community of

hile the heart of AdventHealth’s mission—Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ—revolves around the care we provide our patients, the heartbeat of this organization is the community of caregivers. Team members across all disciplines and in every role are connected by a commitment to whole-person care. The Clinical Mission Integration specialists are just one team that is living out this mission in the work they accomplish.

Clinical Mission Integration is designed to address the spiritual needs of team members. Through regular visits, the CMI specialists work tirelessly to build confidential, compassionate relationships with team members in the outpatient setting. The specialists provide encouragement, conversation and prayer, in addition to sharing information on key resources such as Finding Meaning in Medicine, Mission Fit,

CREATION Life, Blessing of the Hands and much more. The profound impact of the CMI team is perhaps best encapsulated in what AdventHealth refers to as “Mission Moments.” These are instances when the partnership between a specialist and a team member blossoms into something truly transformative. Beyond being a support system, the specialist becomes a safe harbor for processing emotions and, ultimately, standing in prayer together. It’s a testament to the sacred privilege of walking alongside individuals during their most vulnerable moments. Ryan Ramsey, CMI specialist, shares a story of one such moment. A deeper connection “A team member reached out to me, and I could tell it was serious,” said Ramsey. “Usually, he was the person who looked out for all his coworkers and let me know when someone needed support. This time it was for him. He struggled to articulate the news.” This team member had

just been diagnosed with a very serious brain tumor and would need to undergo a high-risk surgery very soon. His long-term prognosis was uncertain. “He was trying to accept the news and asked me to help him face this reality and help him think about how to process this with his family. He said he hadn’t allowed himself to cry or show emotion in front of the family yet.” They talked about how including his family in this emotional journey would foster a deeper connection with them in this difficult time. They prayed together too. Ramsey did his best to create a safe space for him. He said: “Not everything we encounter in our work [as specialists] is a crisis, but when moments like this arise, I remember how sacred a privilege it is to sit in meaningful moments with one another.” Blessed to support The role of a CMI specialist is more than a job; it’s a calling that encapsulates the essence of whole-person care.

The Clinical Mission Specialist team for AdventHealth in the Rocky Mountain Region: (l-r) Eric Shadle, Cynthia Stark, Amy Carveth and Ryan Ramsey. Sidney Folkenberg

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