In this final issue of 2024, we have the privilege to celebrate the life and ministry of Nancy Buxton, long-time director of women’s ministries for the Mid-America Union, who is retiring at the end of the year. Nancy’s legacy of service spans across the terms of four MAUC presidents. During her two decades, Nancy has served the six conferences in Mid-America through helping coordinate countless retreats, trainings and other events and resources for women.
Nancy probably knows more women in our nine-state territory than anyone else ever has. And she certainly cares deeply about the wellbeing of each one of them—and most importantly about their relationship with Jesus. Nancy likes to say her work with women’s ministries started with “a party with a purpose.” (Watch her interview to learn what she means: youtube.com/ MidAmericaOutlook).
I hope Nancy’s story will inspire you as much as it has me to focus on the people around us each day and look for ways to encourage and empower them in their daily lives as Nancy has been doing these past 21 years.
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COVER READ OUTLOOK MAGAZINE ONLINE
Nancy Buxton is the longest serving departmental director in the MidAmerica Union.
UNIVERSITY Scott Cushman news@uau.edu 402.486.2600 x2275 uau.edu
BRENDA DICKERSON editor
of Professor Dr. Beatrice Neall Historical Study
By Lena Toews
Dr. Lena Toews, president of the Adventist Society for Religious Studies and religion teacher at Union Adventist University, presented a paper during the Women in History Conference organized by the North American Division last year. Following is a summary of her presentation, which explored the developing understanding of select issues and doctrines of long-time Union College (at that time) religion professor Dr. Beatrice Neall.
Beatrice (Short) Neall was an Adventist missionary, educator, editor and author. In 1980, while teaching at Union alongside her husband Dr. Ralph Neal, Beatrice Neall was invited to serve on the Sanctuary Review Committee, which consisted of 114 members, and met at Glacier View Ranch, Colorado, in response to the Desmond Ford controversy over the sanctuary doctrine. Dr. Neall was the only woman on the committee.
Neall took this assignment seriously and prepared well. She read over 2,000 pages on both sides of the argument. She was determined to study the sanctuary doctrine; she was dedicated to finding the truth. Beatrice did come to the conclusion, after 15 years of study, that Des Ford was not correct. She studied in depth and she stood her ground.
However, that was not the case with her studies of the materials on women’s ordination. Her views on women gradually changed in the process of her studying. In 1975 the Adventist Church voted to not ordain women to gospel ministry. At Union College, women who wanted to study theology were told by faculty to take a second major because chances they would get a job as a pastor were bleak. Beatrice realized young women were being lost to jobs outside the church, and were not teaching Bible at our academies. She believed that for practical reasons it is good to ordain women. “They are doing the job; we should pay them,” she said.
During the 1980s Union College struggled financially and was on the verge of closing. In addition to Beatrice, there were three men teaching religion, but due to finances it was Beatrice’s pay that was reduced to that of an adjunct/
part-time faculty even though her teaching load was not reduced. Despite the difficult circumstances this placed her in, she offered to teach some classes for free. She believed in the mission of Union College and she loved her students. Beatrice dedicated her talents and time to teaching students with minimal pay.
Open to new light
There is one pivotal article that Beatrice wrote that is crucial to mention when discussing her position on women in ministry. She was asked to write an article on the subject of women’s ordination. She started with one viewpoint, and in the course of her research, completely changed that view.
In the course of her studying, Beatrice looked at many difficult Old Testament and New Testament texts, including the passages in Titus 2, 1 Timothy 2 and 4, 1 Corinthians, Acts and many others. She analyzed the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy references on the role and status of women. She mostly relied on her knowledge of biblical languages. In her analysis of Scripture and hermeneutics, she used a variety of scholarly sources, Adventist and non-Adventist alike. In this article, she did a careful exegesis of both Old Testament and New Testament texts related to the role of women, determining the original intent of the writer and what he had intended to say to the original readers.
Beatrice knew there was no term such as “ordination” in the gospels. But the prophetic gift of Ellen White was the fulfillment of Acts 2:17: “Your sons and your
This portrait of Beatrice Neall was painted by her daughter Cheryl Johnson.
daughters shall prophesy.” Beatrice called it “a clear example of the New Testament empowering of women for the proclamation of the gospel.”
Peter believed on scriptural grounds that Jews should not associate with Gentiles. The Holy Spirit demolished his theology by acting contrary to his expectations. God was moving. And Peter had to move with Him.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church recognizes that God called a woman to be His messenger in these last days. God’s actions should be a check on our interpretation of Scripture.
Was Ellen White ordained? Beatrice asked, “How could human hands ordain her when God Himself had signally empowered her with the greatest of gifts?” White taught, helped with defining the church’s doctrines, exercised authority over men, and did the work of the prophet and the apostle.
How is God moving today?
Does He use women to teach, to lead, to exercise authority? Beatrice shared her discovery from Genesis 1:26, “he created him, male and female, He created them.” Therefore, together male and female would reflect His likeness. The persons of the Godhead work together, and so should men and women.
History and tradition have separated the roles of men and women. But human creativity and potential, derived from the image of God, are limitless and unpredictable. Gifts should not be suppressed, but valued and encouraged. God Himself is complex; so is humanity, since we are made in His image. Neither sex should seek to dominate the other. Power is not in short supply and must not be fought over.
In summary, when God works no human being can stop His work. Beatrice was an example of this work. She was not afraid to question and challenge her own or the church’s beliefs. She studied and she grew. She had an open mind and heart to the Spirit and its work in her understanding of Scripture. She took risks and was willing to take shots from all sides by embracing both traditional and feminist views in her articles on male-female roles.
Beatrice’s dedication as a woman professor and scholar still stands as an example of deep conviction, courage and lifelong learning.
What makes Beatrice unique is that she was committed to lifetime learning and was willing to put her beliefs and Bible knowledge to the test. She was not satisfied with the status quo.
And through that learning, she grew and changed and helped her students to grow in their understanding of Scripture, doctrines and personal beliefs.
Lena Toews teaches New Testament and Greek at Union Adventist University and currently serves as the president of the Adventist Society for Religious Studies, which fosters intellectual and social fellowship among its members while promoting scholarly pursuits across all religious disciplines. Lena holds a master’s degree in education and linguistics, as well as a PhD in New Testament interpretation, allowing her to bring a broad range of expertise to her work of passionately equipping young people for service in God’s kingdom. She is the senior editor of the forthcoming book Cosmic Conflict: Upto-Date or Out-of-Date? and is currently authoring a textbook that teaches biblical Greek through the gospel of John, using a second language acquisition approach.
Learn more about Adventist Women Leaders and find additional resources and community at adventistwomenleaders. com
Women’s Ministries
Learning, teaching, connecting Nancy Buxton and
Someone asked me what my dream is for women’s ministries, and it has given me something to really ponder. I do believe, and have said many times, that if we make a difference in a woman’s life we make a difference in her family, friends, church and community. We must grow in inclusiveness, knowing there is room for anyone who wants to be involved.
I dream that we will continue to equip women to mentor, teach and love each other, and learn that Jesus loves us and is willing to fight for each of us. I dream that women’s ministries will be seen as an important department at the different levels of the church.
Also, it is vital that we learn to communicate better with each other. At our women’s ministries website (www.nadwm. org) there is so much information and yet very few people know about it. Sermons complete with PowerPoint, children’s stories, bulletin announcements, information about college scholarships, a how-to for our devotional book—it’s all there plus more!
Over the years women’s ministries has had a large impact on my life. When my friend Angel Bock decided our College View Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, needed to have something for women I knew there was one thing I could do, and that was cook. Cooking was the best I had to offer and cook we did! Our small group of women soon grew to over 300. Women who were taking a break from church, women from the community, and church members all started showing up once a month for great food, some fun, a devotion and a planned program.
And then I found I could do other things besides cook. By being involved Jesus gave me the ability to do other things aligned with my love for women and cooking. Through this ministry I have learned the art of listening, loving, caring, speaking and realizing how much we need each other. I truly believe that Jesus will give us the ability to work and speak for Him—all we have to do is be willing and ask.
As I think back to 35 years ago when I first got involved with women’s ministries, a lot has changed. We have many more resources for women and we have women’s retreats in every conference each year. We have certainly become aware of the importance of young women and their views; we want them to be involved in leadership.
We crave and value diversity, inclusiveness, and there is value in a party with a purpose. We have always known how important the friendships of women are, but with so much social media it is rare to see a group of women together. We know more now than ever it is vital to get together whether it’s at church, at a restaurant, someone’s home or the park.
If you are not involved in ministry of some kind, get
Nancy Buxton is passionate about mentoring new leaders, including these Union Adventist University students.
involved! If you would like to see some changes in your church, get involved. If you want to tell others about Jesus, get involved.
If you are thinking about starting women’s ministries in your church I have a little advice for you:
1. Pray, pray, pray! And always include your pastor in your ideas for women’s ministries.
2. You must have a team! Even if you can only find one other person, have a team.
3. Do an assessment of your church to find out what women see as needs.
4. Get together with your team and decide what one thing from that list you want to do.
5. Put the idea together and make a budget.
6. Go to your pastor and discuss what you have in mind.
Finally, it is vital to prepare your core team to be friendly, welcoming and present. Let those who attend know they are valued. There are so many people who need to hear about Jesus and yet we are sometimes uncomfortable to tell others about Him.
I do believe, however, it’s important to establish a friendship before jumping into deep spiritual discussions. Having something going on at your church to invite community women and church members to is a great way to form friendships. It’s always more enjoyable if we can enjoy eating together. Whether it’s dessert, popcorn or a meal we all seem to enjoy fellowshipping over food.
I pray you will take that leap of faith and ask God where you should start. Every time you trust God and want to obey His call, God will get bigger, and your life will grow deeper, richer and stronger in Him.
Nancy Buxton, long-time director of women’s ministries for the Mid-America Union, is retiring at the end of 2024.
Hugh Davis
Leaders Express Appreciation to Buxton for 21 Years of Dedicated Service
Nancy Buxton, women’s ministries director for the Mid-America Union Conference, will retire on Dec. 31, 2024, after 21 years of service in this position.
Over 30 years ago, Nancy and Pastor Angel Bock of College View Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, began Women in Touch, which monthly drew in 300 women from both the church and the community. It was designed for women who were taking a break from church, looking for a safe place to invite their friends, or looking to make friendships with other women. Years later, Pastor Dennis Carlson invited Nancy to be the women’s ministries director for the Mid-America Union. After much prayer and contemplation, Nancy accepted the position.
DeeAnn Bragaw, women’s ministries director for the North American Division, attributes much of her growth and success to Nancy’s mentorship. “Nancy Buxton exemplifies godly leadership in action. A woman who deeply loves Jesus, Nancy listens, inspires and encourages other women. She attends every possible women’s ministries event across the Mid-America Union, connecting with women from all walks of life. At those leadership trainings, retreats, abuse awareness days, etc., Nancy looks for every opportunity to genuinely engage with women, hear their unique stories, and then connect them with helpful resources. She displays the beauty of a leader paving the way for other women to become leaders and models the necessity of continually growing both spiritually and professionally. Nancy knows the value and power of infusing hard work with joy!”
Bragaw added that mentoring conference leaders and other women leaders comes naturally to Nancy. She lives out what she advocates as she ministers to women in her own
NAD and union women’s ministries directors for 2024.
local church and community. “Not only has Nancy been an exemplary leader for the women of Mid-America, women across the North American Division have also been blessed by her wisdom and compassion,” says Bragaw. “We celebrate Nancy and thank God for the lives that have been touched and changed throughout her ministry. Thank you, Nancy, for giving us such a beautiful example of an outstanding leader, and thank you for mentoring me!”
Donna Brown, women’s ministries director for the Central States Conference, which covers the same states Nancy works in, stated that Nancy was a good example for her in the realm of balancing time. “She is so real. I appreciated when I accepted this position that she made a trip to Kansas City and we met at Panera Bread for lunch. We talked for about two hours. Her interest in my personal desires and aspirations was so important to her, and it made me feel like I could really do this ministry. The support of showing up for many events— including when I am preaching—shows the importance I was to her team. Thank you, Nancy, for your leadership and motherhood!”
The Mid-America Union would like to sincerely thank Nancy for her decades of service and wish her all the best in retirement.
Communication Department.
Evan Majors is a student intern with the Mid-America
Nancy Buxton receives a lifetime achievement award from former NAD women’s ministries director Carla Baker.
Photos Courtesy North American Division Women’s Ministries
Brenda Dickerson: I understand that women’s ministries for the North American Division actually started right here in Mid-America. Please tell us about its beginnings.
Nancy Buxton: In 1983 the NAD asked all the unions to have a representative for women. Evelyn Glass was MidAmerica’s and she organized a meeting at College View Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. A lot of women came and they just talked about things they wished would be different in our church. Elder George Timpson from Mid-America Union was there and he went back to Elder Joel Tompkins, who was our union president at the time, and told him that we needed to do something for women. Before long, the NAD called those representatives back together, and that’s how women’s ministries started.
BD: Very interesting. Nancy, how would you define women’s ministries now?
NB: Women’s ministries is designed to give women confidence, and to also help women have a better relationship—or begin a relationship—with Jesus. But it’s more than that. Friendship is so important to women. Some time ago, there was a study done in Minnesota called the Nurses Study. And it showed how important women’s friendships really are. Our friendships make a difference in both our mental health and our physical health. I’ve always thought if you can help a woman, you make a difference in a family, in a church, and in a community.
BD: What has kept you involved with women’s ministries for so long?
NB: Yes, 21 years is a long time, but you know what? It seems like yesterday that I began. When I go to a retreat or a training I see the difference it makes in women’s lives. One time I was in Minnesota and I watched two older women who, when they saw each other, were so delighted. They gave each other a big bear hug and they held each other for a length of time. It just thrills my heart to watch how women’s ministries brings women together.
BD: Can you share a specific story about a woman whose life was impacted by women’s ministries?
NB: Brenda, I could tell many stories. But I think especially of one person. She felt so unequipped to do anything. And when she was asked to work in the children’s division—now, we’re talking about two and three year olds—she was so nervous she could feel the hem of her dress hitting her leg as she stood up there because she was shaking so much. She got involved in women’s ministries and I watched her blossom. She turned into a dynamic leader, and it was really all thanks to women’s ministries. I heard her tell her story, and she has such a story to tell! It made a difference to the women when she told it, and it made a big difference to her.
BD: That’s really beautiful. In your opinion, Nancy, what is your greatest accomplishment in women’s ministries?
NB: I truly do not feel that I have done any great accomplishment. But we together, as women’s ministries people, have done a lot. I feel like my job has been to be the cheerleader for my team, the cheerleader for other women. When I think about women’s ministries I look at the “end it now” initiative and the importance of just bringing that forward so people realize love should not hurt. And abuse—physical abuse, spiritual abuse, sexual abuse—needs to end now. In addition, I think about all the wonderful resources we have developed. We have great resources. And I think all of those are huge accomplishments.
Watch the full video interview with Nancy Buxton at youtube.com/MidAmericaOutlook. For women’s ministries resources visit www.nadwm.org.
Roy Simpson Joins Mid-America Treasury Team
Roy Simpson, who most recently served as treasurer of the Ohio Conference, is now the undertreasurer for the MidAmerica Union Conference.
Simpson holds a bachelor’s in business administration with an emphasis in accounting and a master’s in business administration with emphasis in finance.
Simpson was born into a pastoral family with a missionary background. He has served the Seventh-day Adventist Church in different countries, including Honduras and Costa Rica, and diverse institutions, such as food companies and universities. He has a love and passion for soul winning, which he says makes him a financial leader with a singular perspective—channeling and structuring resources to fulfill the mission.
“I’m excited to have Roy join the treasury leadership here in the Mid America Union office,” said Dave VandeVere, MAUC vice president for finance. “His experience as a conference treasurer will be a great asset as he works with the various treasury teams within our territory. Most importantly, Roy’s commitment to spiritual leadership and a professional work ethic is outstanding.”
Experience plus dedication
Simpson joined the Ohio Conference in 2015 as an assistant treasurer. In 2019, the conference named him interim treasurer and a few months later officially
appointed him as treasurer. Simpson was instrumental in guiding the conference through various financial milestones, including the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic followed by a period of unprecedented tithe growth.
Simpson marked his tenure at the Ohio Conference with significant achievements in financial leadership, strengthening the foundation for continued success through his commitment and expertise. He developed a budget and a financial strategy that resulted in a financial turnover and produced a budget balanced entirely with tithe funds, over 170 percent working capital (7 months on new calculation) and 240 percent Total Net Assets increase. He further improved the financial health by maximizing regular sources of income and coordinating the process of obtaining extraordinary income such as PPP and ERC funds. In addition, he
managed expenses to create financially efficient programs, and reduced over-expense in areas such as camp and administration.
Furthermore, Simpson enhanced the efficiency of the Ohio Conference Treasury and HR activities by developing a solid team to better support churches, schools and employees. He established yearly trainings, school budgets reviews, and migrated to a completely electronic documents retention system. Simpson supervised and coordinated the day-to-day activities of many different areas such as Human Resources, Property and Liability Insurance, and the review and development of financial policies. He also led the Building Committee as chairman and supported the field by frequently visiting schools and churches.
Commenting on his new role at the Mid-America Union, Simpson said, “I am honored by the opportunity to serve at the Mid-America
Union, and looking forward to being part of a team with such passion for service and mission.”
Brenda Dickerson is communication director for the Mid-America Union Conference.
Roy Simpson with his wife, Melissa, and their daughter, Kayleen, and son, Kenneth.
Hugh Davis
Courtesy Simpson Family
MID-AMERICA UNION NEWS
2024 Conscience and Justice Council Convention Convenes in St. Louis
During a time of unrest in Ferguson, Pastor Claval Hunter found himself just three miles away, watching the situation unfold. He attended church, preached and prayed, but felt convicted that the church wasn’t doing enough for the people nearby. After three days, the Holy Spirit prompted him to act. Unsure at first, he simply bought cold water and brought it to those protesting. He invited a young church member and a fellow pastor to join him, and together they went to Ferguson, where they offered hope and support to people who felt their voices were lost.
This sense of responsibility was echoed at the recent Conscience and Justice Council (CJC) annual convention, held this year in St. Louis, Missouri, from Sept. 19-22. The convention’s theme, “10 Years After Ferguson: Walking or Talking?” commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Michael Brown incident in Ferguson. The convention focused on inspiring and empowering Christians to make a positive difference in their communities. As the Bible recounts in Matthew 25, when Jesus separates the
sheep from the goats, it won’t be based on theology alone but on how we responded to the least of these—whether we were merely talking or actually walking and living the gospel.
The event featured dynamic speakers, preachers and presenters from across the country who shared their work in addressing pressing societal issues, including gun violence, police brutality, prostitution, voting rights, air quality in urban areas, and religious liberty. The diversity of speakers, ranging from attorneys to civic leaders to pastors, reflected the broad spectrum of expertise present.
The opening keynote speaker, Pastor Michael Pfleger from St. Sabina Catholic Church in Chicago, shared powerful stories of how his ministry shut down liquor stores selling alcohol to minors, rescued women from prostitution, and helped people find employment. His church has become a model for transformative community engagement.
Another significant presentation was by Dr. Kevin Burton from Andrews University, who spoke on “Civic Engagement in Adventist DNA.” He
emphasized how early Seventh-day Adventist pioneers were deeply involved in social justice issues, such as fighting for the abolition of slavery and supporting the Underground Railroad. They believed that unjust civil laws should be violated in the name of justice. Dr. Burton’s message reminded attendees that this passion for justice is a key part of the Adventist heritage, urging today’s Christians to carry on that legacy.
Attendee Ralph Metcalf, from Bethel Seventh-day Adventist Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, shared his takeaway from the convention: “It’s a firehose of information, but the most important thing I’ll take back is the ability to tailor community service work to the actual needs of the people, not just what we think they need.” His reflections echoed the central message of the convention—listening to communities and responding with actionable plans.
The convention’s sessions tackled a wide range of issues, including Project 2025 and its potential repercussions, presented by Bettina Krause, editor of Liberty Magazine, and other leaders in religious liberty. A session on “Generational Trauma: Slavery and Its Impact on Health,” led by Dr. Anthony Medley from the Allegheny East Conference and his wife, India Medley, the Chief Nursing Officer at Howard University Hospital, opened attendees’ eyes to how the legacy of slavery affects the
health of descendants today and what can be done to address those disparities. Throughout the weekend, the convention blended deep spiritual reflection with practical calls to action. Sabbath services featured powerful sermons from Dr. Marcus Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Pastor Furman Fordham from the South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and Pastor Tricia Wynn Payne from the Lake Region Conference. Their messages focused on the call from Micah 6:8, urging believers to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
The convention’s closing event, a celebration of best practices in community change, featured the Andrews University Center for Community Change. Three participants received $10,000 each to support ongoing community projects.
Edward Woods III, chairperson of the CJC and Public Affairs and Religious Liberty director for the Lake Region Conference, reminded everyone that the words of Ellen White still ring true: Christ’s method alone works best. By mingling with people, understanding their struggles, and meeting their needs, the church can truly be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Cryston Josiah is vice president of administration for the Central States Conference. Hugh Davis is associate communication director for the Mid-America Union Conference.
Hugh Davis
Mid-America Union Launches ACF Institute to Promote Growth
The Mid-America Union Conference hosted its inaugural Adventist Christian Fellowship Institute at the headquarters of the Central States Conference in Kansas City, Kansas, on Aug. 30-Sept. 1, 2024.
This landmark event brought together 43 passionate students representing seven university campuses from across the Mid-America Union. These universities included the University of Kansas, Missouri State University, Iowa State University, Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota, North Dakota State University, and the Missouri University of Science and Technology.
The theme for the weekend, “Grounded in Christ,” was inspired by Col. 2:6-7. The gathering was a spiritually enriching experience, characterized by vibrant and uplifting worship sessions led by the praise team from the New Beginnings Samoan-English Seventhday Adventist Church in Independence, Missouri. Attendees were blessed with inspirational devotional talks from Pastor Tyrone
Douglas, youth and young adult ministries director for the Mid-America Union, Pastor Darrel Lindensmith, sponsor of the North Dakota State University chapter, Chaplain Makenzy Jean from the University of Kansas, and Lane Elien, an elder at the Adventist church in Ames, Iowa. The institute also featured impactful seminars led by Esther Kim, a campus ministry leader at Iowa State University, Pastor Darrel Lindensmith and Pastor Daniel Jeon, associate pastor of the Collegedale Korean Seventhday Adventist Church in Ooltewah, Tennessee.
One of the primary reasons students are encouraged to get involved in an ACF chapter is for spiritual growth. College life, especially on public campuses, can present a multitude of challenges as students are often exposed to new ideas and lifestyles that may test their faith. ACF chapters provide a safe and supportive environment where students can explore their beliefs, ask probing questions, and deepen their understanding of the Bible. As students navigate the
complexities of college life, an active faith community serves as a crucial anchor, helping them maintain their Christian values and beliefs.
Esther Kim, a student leader in the ACF chapter at Iowa State University, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of these communities.
Beyond spiritual growth, ACF involvement also offers students opportunities to engage in meaningful outreach programs both on and off campus. During the MAUC ACF Institute, participants engaged in two service projects over the weekend. One group took part in a faith-sharing event at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where they hosted a tabling event and distributed books on apologetics. Another group volunteered at a food pantry operated by the New Haven Seventh-day Adventist Church in Overland Park, Kansas, providing muchneeded assistance to the local community.
Pastor Makenzy highlighted the growing number of young adults from Seventh-day Adventist
churches attending public universities and colleges. He emphasized, “As a church, we need to support them in meaningful ways. These young adults are poised to impact our church, community and world in unique and significant ways.” Pastor Lindensmith added, “There must be an organic connection between the local church and campus ministries. Churches and conferences should embrace campus ministry as integral to evangelism.”
Students who attended the ACF Institute expressed great enthusiasm about the prospect of future union-sponsored events that would allow all the chapters within the Mid-America Union to come together for fellowship, training and inspiration. The ACF advisory for the MidAmerica Union is committed to meeting regularly to expand the growth of ACF chapters throughout the region, ensuring that the impact of these ministries continues to flourish.
Information provided by Tyrone Douglas, church ministries director for the Mid-America Union Conference.
Darrel Lindensmith
Venus Douglas
‘Save Our Youth’ Distributes School Supplies in St. Louis
Backpack drive hosted at Tabernacle of Praise
Save Our Youth-St. Louis (SOY-STL), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underserved youth, is proud to announce the successful distribution of 654 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to deserving students across the St. Louis area. This initiative aims to equip students with the tools they need to succeed academically and ensure they started the school year with confidence and enthusiasm.
The backpacks, which were distributed in July, included a comprehensive set of supplies such as notebooks, pencils, erasers, crayons and other materials crucial for a productive learning experience. This effort aligns with SOY-STL’s mission to provide critical support and resources to children who might otherwise struggle to obtain these necessary items.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many students,” said Lee Carrell, executive director of SOYSTL. “By providing these backpacks, we hope to alleviate some of the pressures faced by families and help every child start the school year prepared and excited.”
The distribution event was held at Tabernacle of Praise Seventh-day Adventist Church, where volunteers and staff members worked together to ensure each student received their backpack and a warm welcome. The backpacks were given to students from various schools within the St. Louis area, highlighting SOY-STL’s commitment to supporting the local community.
SOY-STL extends heartfelt thanks to the generous donors, volunteers and
community partners whose contributions made this initiative possible. Their support underscores the power of collective effort in creating positive change and enhancing educational opportunities for youth in need.
For additional information about SOY-STL and future initiatives, please visit saveouryouthstl. org or contact Lee Carrell, executive director, at 314.355.7228 or email carrell1@ swbell.net.
About SOY-STL
Save Our YouthSt. Louis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children through various programs and initiatives that focus on education, mental health and community support. Our mission is to empower youth to reach their full potential and succeed in their academic and personal lives.
Courtesy
Central States Conference
CSC to Host Leadership Conference in Omaha
Family Ministries Department invites all leaders, inspiring leaders, and interested members
The phone rings. It’s a member of the nominating committee asking you to take a new church ministry position.
• You feel the Lord’s calling, but you are unsure if you can do it!
• God has given you a passion for a ministry you would like to use in His service ... but how do you start?
• Perhaps you have served in this position for several years now, but the world and the church are
changing. How do you enhance your leadership skills for today’s world? These are some of the dilemmas that leaders and aspiring leaders face. Well, we are happy to announce that the Family Ministries Department of Central States Conference is hosting a Leadership Summit. It will be held in beautiful refashioned downtown Omaha, Nebraska, on Nov. 8-10. Pastor Phillip Baptiste, North American Division secretary/treasurer of Adventist-laymen’s
Services and Industries (ASI) will be your lead facilitator. He will be joined by empowered facilitators presenting a variety of leadership skill-building workshops. Leaders and aspiring leaders as well as interested members are invited to attend.
Stories on these pages are by Central States Conference News.
For additional information and registration visit central-states.org/ events/leadershipsummit.
Wasemiller Takes New Position
Kelli Wasemiller has resigned as the Dakota Conference elementary education superintendent to accept a new role—full-time mom. Despite stepping down, Kelli has graciously agreed to continue working for a few months on an hourly basis to ensure a smooth transition.
After marrying Stephen and returning to the Dakotas, Kelli began working on her master’s in leadership. In January 2022, just months before completing her degree, she was offered the position
of elementary superintendent. For the past two and a half years, Kelli has dedicated herself to our education system and elementary teachers. Her dedication and support have left a lasting impact on those with whom she worked.
Kelli and Stephen are expecting twins, a boy and a girl, in early December.
Dusty Ricketts, teacher at Hillcrest School in Jamestown, reflecting on her experience, shared, “Though I have only been with the Dakota Conference for one school year, that has been enough time to feel so appreciative of Kelli’s gentle nature and generous availability to answer questions. May this next aspect of her life be all the best in God’s blessings.”
Janna Wright, head teacher at Invitation Hill School in Dickinson, praised Kelli’s efforts, stating, “Kelli
has gone above and beyond in her role as superintendent. Any requests or suggestions given to her were quickly and thoroughly addressed. She advocated for us teachers, doing anything and everything she could to make our jobs easier. I will miss her ‘uncommon’ sense and support. She has done an amazing job in this role!”
Leanne Erickson, teacher at Prairie Voyager School in Grand Forks, echoed these sentiments, saying, “When thinking about Kelli’s impact on education in the Dakota Conference, I feel that the motto the 2024 Dakota Adventist Academy seniors chose exemplifies Kelli’s impact on education in the Dakotas: ‘Leadership is not a position or a title, it is action and example.’ Kelli didn’t lead from a title position but as a fellow teacher who had done the job we are currently
doing. She didn’t claim to have all the answers but worked with us to help find solutions. She empathized with the stress we felt and shared ways to deal with it. She listened to our requests and worked to meet them. It is clear she has a passion and calling for children, education and the teachers doing the work. I will miss her official title as superintendent, but I know her support is still for Dakota Adventist education. I wish her the very best as she and Stephen begin the most precious form of education—their own children.”
Kelli’s departure leaves a significant void, but her contributions will continue to inspire and guide the Dakota Conference. We wish her all the best in her new journey.
Jodi Dossenko is communication director for the Dakota Conference.
Thunder Island VBS: A Youth-Led Success
This year, a couple of friends and I found out that our longtime leader of Vacation Bible School was not going to proceed in leading out this summer. So, we decided to do it ourselves with the help and oversight of Teree Rittenbach. We knew that directing VBS would require an abundance of planning. Our youth leadership team included Abi Skaife, Alea Kahler,
Elizabeth Rittenbach, and myself (Anna Rittenbach).
Once we had our group, the work began. We figured out our theme and the decorations we needed. Then, we began asking individuals to help with music, crafts, snacks, the Bible story, decorating, games and a leader for the little ones. We quickly learned it takes many people to hold a successful VBS!
The four of us also wanted
to be Crew Leaders for our VBS, and I had a blast being a crew leader this year. The theme for this year’s VBS at Jamestown Church was Thunder Island. We transformed the church into an island scene, complete with water, fish, shells and more. The most important part of each day was the message for all the kids: Jesus Loves You, Jesus Values You, Jesus Accepts You, and Jesus
Forgives You.
In my crew, I had four boys, so I learned something about leadership, responsibility and patience. I had a lot of fun and would definitely lead out again next year.
Addendum by Teree Rittenbach
Using a youth team in a leadership role is a wonderful way to provide a safe, effective method for our youth
Tim Vigil
Jason Logan Appointed Vice President of Administration and Ministerial Director
Elder Jason Logan has been appointed the new vice president of administration and ministerial director for the Dakota Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Logan brings a rich background in ministry and leadership to his new role. For the past two years, he has served as the pastor of the Invitation Hill Seventhday Adventist Church in Dickinson, North Dakota. He and his wife, Grace, married since the summer of 1998, have three adult children: Abigail, an occupational
to be involved in planning, implementing and evaluating a church project. This model could work for smaller activities, like planning a church social or leading a Sabbath service for one of the divisions, or larger projects like VBS. If we do this again next year, we plan to add more aspects of planning, such as budgeting and ordering supplies.
One amazing outcome of using this approach was
therapy assistant residing in Lincoln, Nebraska, with her husband Drew; Gideon, a pre-med and International Rescue and Relief student at Union Adventist University; and Afton, an archeology major at Southern Adventist University.
Born in New Port Richey, Florida, Elder Logan was the fourth of six children. His family moved to Newcastle, Wyoming, within a year of his birth, where he grew up and met his high school sweetheart, Grace. Shortly after their marriage, he enrolled in the Black Hills Mission College of Evangelism, completing both the evangelism and pastoral programs. It was during his pastoral training that the Revelation Promises Hope evangelistic team was formed, with Elder Logan serving in full-time evangelism for three years across large cities in the United States.
After their first child,
that we actually had church members volunteering for leadership roles in VBS after the girls provided an information session during our church announcement time. They used the Thunder Island information video to generate excitement about this year’s theme and then highlighted some of the VBS roles that still needed to be filled. These teens were even able to recruit help from Nebraska, Florida and from
Abigail, was born, the Logans settled in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for Bible work, where their son, Gideon, was born. Elder Logan then took a position as a western sales and service representative for Messersmith Manufacturing Inc., working there for 10 years and returning the family to Wyoming.
In Wyoming, he co-laypastored the Sundance Adventist Church where their third child, Afton, was born. Later the family moved and lay-pastored the Newcastle Adventist Church.
Shortly after moving back to Newcastle, at the age of 27, Logan was diagnosed with cancer. During this time, he stepped down from church leadership but later became the head elder of the Newcastle Church. This role led to an opportunity to become the part-time pastoral assistant.
Logan’s pastoral calling,
others who had never helped with VBS before!
Annabelle Rittenbach is a member of the Jamestown Adventist Church and eighth grader at
present since his childhood, took a non-traditional route. After becoming a pastoral assistant, he was called by the Rocky Mountain Conference to serve as the pastor of the southwest district of Wyoming, overseeing five churches. Following his ministry in Wyoming, Logan pastored the Greeley and Elm Haven churches in Colorado for approximately five years before his most recent role in Dickinson, North Dakota.
Elder Logan considers it a great privilege and honor to minister to God’s children. He seeks daily guidance and wisdom to effectively serve on his Savior’s behalf. He and his family look forward to God’s continued leading in their future and are committed to contributing to the growth of God’s kingdom in the Dakotas.
Jodi Dossenko is communication director for the Dakota Conference.
Brentwood Adventist Christian School. Teree Rittenbach is a member of the Jamestown Church and Anna’s grandmother.
Joseph Lee
Children Breathe New Life into Kimberling City Church
The Kimberling City Church in Missouri is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to the vibrant energy of its youngest members. Recent events highlight the church’s commitment to intergenerational worship and community engagement.
Cherub choir
An aging church has been revitalized with six little “cherubs,” ages nine months to nine years, attending most Sabbaths. The children, wearing their little handmade robes by church member
Judy Shafer, debuted on Sabbath, Aug. 3. They sang, “God Is so Good.”
Christian gospel concert
The Kimberling City Church invited local Branson artist Sue Ann O’Neal Clark, gospel country singer and songwriter, to present a concert. Besides Branson, Sue Ann has appeared all over the United States, traveled to Canada, and once toured for the United Services Organization to Panama, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and other
military installations.
During her concert in the Kimberling City Church on April 28, she invited two little boys to come up and help her sing “This Little Light of Mine.” The boys and their mom, our pastor’s wife and sons, joined her with little battery-operated candles.
Children’s story
No one is too young or too old to participate in the Kimberling City Church. Eighty-eight-year-old Patricia Hanson told the children’s story for the church
service on July 13. It was about Adam and Eve and the “apple.” Props included:
• Apples
• A church elder with a fake snake wrapped around his neck
• Two other men serving as trees
When the serpent spoke to the eight and nine-year-old girls, offering them an apple to eat, they refused! (It seems they have heard this story before and are living with the results!)
Members say, “We may be small, but we’re growing.” “Our doors are always open to visitors.” And, “We’re proud to be known as the ‘Little Church with a Big Heart.’”
Carolyn Sowards is a member of the Kimberling Church in Missouri.
God’s Love Echoes Through Poplar Bluff’s Thunder Island VBS Adventure
Last July the Poplar Bluff Church held its Thunder Island Vacation Bible School, providing a week of spiritual
education and fun activities for local children.
The Thunder Island theme focused on how God speaks
to us, emphasizing His love. The program included a variety of engaging activities for the young participants:
• Bible stories
• Bounce house
• Water fun
• Crafts and games
Throughout the week, 12 young people attended on various nights, allowing for flexible participation to accommodate different family schedules.
Terrah Shepard served as the VBS director, organizing
the event with the help of several dedicated church members. Their combined efforts ensured a successful program for all participants.
In addition to the children’s activities, Pastor Robert Stockford led a group of adults in the sanctuary each evening. This parallel program, titled “Victory in Jesus,” offered Bible-based messages for the grown-ups.
Catherine Dollins is comunication leader for the Poplar Bluff Church in Missouri.
Photos:
Judy Garcia
Catherine Dollins
College Park Church Celebrates Grand Reopening with Expanded Facility and New Name
The College Park Seventhday Adventist Church, formerly Columbia Seventhday Adventist Church, officially opened its newly expanded and remodeled facility on June 22. This event marks the completion of a building project that temporarily relocated services but has now significantly enhanced the church’s capacity.
Highlights of the reopening celebration included:
• A joyous procession from the College Park Christian Academy gymnasium to the new church entrance, led by the Adventurer and Pathfinder clubs
• Responsive reading of Psalm 95:1-7
• Ceremonial key presentation by general contractor Marc Bales to head elder Joe Parmele
• Unlocking of the new doors by Elder Parmele, accompanied by Pastor Hiram Rester, local elder Aggrey Wanyonji, and Marc Bales
• A spirit-filled worship service featuring special musical performances, including a choir number and a solo by local elder Sonita Simelus
• An inspiring message from Pastor Rester, reviewing the church’s journey since 2021 and looking toward the future
• An evening vespers
service titled “Holy Spirit, Come,” followed by a prayer walk, dessert and fellowship time.
The new facilities expansion project includes:
• A new foyer
• New kitchen
• Additional rooms
• An enlarged, remodeled sanctuary.
These improvements provide much-needed space for fellowship, community outreach and spiritual growth.
During construction, the church voted to change its name to College Park Seventh-day Adventist Church to align the church’s name more closely with its affiliated school, College Park Christian Academy.
The College Park Seventhday Adventist Church invites all to worship with them and experience the beauty of the remodeled and enlarged facility. It is home to a warm,
Pathfinders and Adventurers participated in the procession during the reopening ceremony.
loving and diverse congregation longing to experience Jesus more and more.
Dora Hallock is communication leader for the College Park Church in Columbia, Missouri.
Photos Courtesy College Park Church
Restoration and Renewal: How Prayer Sparked Revival in the Haitian Adventist Community
Last August the Haitian Seventh-day Adventist group in Garden City, Kansas, held a life-changing evangelistic campaign titled “L’espoir pour ceux qui ont le cœurs brisés” (Hope for the Broken Hearts). Under the leadership of Pastor Brayan Maldonado, this two-week program brought a message of hope, restoration and spiritual renewal. The guest speaker, Pastor Rothschird Dangervil from Andrews University, delivered powerful and inspiring messages that left a lasting impression of Christ’s love and transformative power on those who attended.
Preparation for this evangelistic effort began with a week of prayer and reconsecration led by the Haitian group director. This week of spiritual renewal was a time of deep reflection and revival for the church members, laying a solid foundation for what would become a life-changing experience. The week of prayer concluded with a midnight vigil, where
members sought God’s presence and prayed for the Holy Spirit to guide each step of the evangelistic series.
During the week of prayer leading up to and throughout the evangelistic campaign, church members actively visited homes, reached out to the community, and invited people to attend the series. These personal visits were an essential part of the campaign, as they allowed church members to connect directly with the community and extend personal invitations.
One of the most notable moments of the outreach came during these home
visits, when church members encountered former Adventists who had been disconnected from the faith for some time. These individuals were surprised to learn that there was a Haitian Adventist group in Garden City, and they were warmly welcomed back into the community. The experience of reuniting with these former members was both joyful and inspiring, as they not only attended the meetings but also recommitted their lives to Christ and rejoined the Adventist faith community.
Beginning on August 4, the church opened its doors to visitors and members, offering Bible studies every evening at 6 pm before the start of the program for those interested in deepening their knowledge of Scripture and preparing for baptism. These studies created a space for people to ask questions and grow in their faith, with participants expressing a renewed desire to follow Christ.
The campaign culminated on August 17 with a powerful and joyful celebration of
three people who decided to give their lives to Jesus through baptism. These baptisms were a testimony to the work of the Holy Spirit during the two weeks of evangelization. The closing ceremony was further enriched by a vibrant music concert where church members shared their musical talents to glorify God. This concert was not only an expression of gratitude but also a reflection of the unity and spiritual revival that had taken place within the congregation during the campaign.
For the Haitian group, the campaign not only strengthened their bonds of fellowship and reaffirmed their commitment to spreading the gospel, but also reinforced their vision of becoming a strong, evangelizing church in the future.
Information provided by Brayan Maldonado, who pastors the Garden City Hispanic, Garden City Haitian and Liberal Hispanic churches in Kansas.
College View Church Teens Serve with Maranatha in the Dominican Republic
Agroup of 36 volunteers from the College View Church community in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently completed a project in the Dominican Republic with Maranatha Volunteers International, a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. In just 10 days, this hard-working group—which was mostly teenagers—laid the block walls of a church building for the El Rosal II congregation in the capital city of Santo Domingo. “[Volunteers] really tried their best and put in their best effort, and I know that was God working through them,” said the project’s coordinator, Renae Cross
The El Rosal II congregation met in a small house for 10 years. After this decade of patient prayers, worshipers were ecstatic to see College View volunteers working on their new building. They couldn’t help but get involved. “I’ve never seen church members help out in the process of building a church as much as this church did,” said Cross. “People came and helped shovel dirt and haul blocks … It really felt like we were working with the church, which was awesome.”
In addition to construction work, College View teens led Vacation Bible School programs for the kids in the community. “We were really intentional about having the [volunteer] kids go up there and be involved in leadership,” recalled Cross. For five
In just 10 days, this hard working group laid the block walls of a church building in the capitol city of Santo Domingo.
nights, they led song service, starred in puppet shows and told Bible stories. All these activities taught a lesson about Jesus to an audience of more than 30 local children.
“I’d say that it’s really important to have that impact on a community that’s long lasting beyond when you’re there,” Cross remarked. “I think that with Maranatha that impact is more long-lasting because you get to leave
something there. I hope this building that we built will provide this church a better opportunity to reach out to the community.”
Cross believes the trip will also have a long-lasting impact on volunteers. “It opens up their worldview and what the church looks like outside of Lincoln, Nebraska.
And I hope that the physical act of service drives them to consider doing more.”
Maranatha Volunteers International mobilizes volunteers to build churches, schools, water wells and other urgently needed structures around the world. Since 1969, Maranatha has constructed more than 14,000 structures and more than 3,000 water wells in nearly 90 countries.
Sidney Needles is a member of the Sunnydale Church in Missouri.
Photos: Renae Cross
From Loss to Life Through Student Missions
esse Leavelle had experienced so much loss. As a sophomore in high school his best friend ended his life. Due to COVID-19 he lost the end of his senior year and graduation, and then was unable to attend the college he wanted to in person. He had a difficult break-up with his girlfriend, and after finding his way to La Sierra he ended up with three more losses of close friends, including his roommate. He wanted to feel better and was smoking to cope with his feelings.
After attending a Loma Linda University depression and anxiety treatment program and getting sober, a trusted mentor encouraged him to serve as a student missionary. “I won’t be doing it for the kids, I’d be doing it for me,” Leavelle said. His mentor encouraged him that this might be enough.
A year later, after serving as a missionary in Guam teaching P.E. to grades pre-K through 10, Leavelle states that he has found healing, friends, a dog and growth in his relationship with God. “I’ve known God, but I’ve never walked with God,” he reflected. As he worked with the kids and started praying more, he found his relationship with God deepening. Leavelle has found a new way of living, taking life with God instead of worrying and micromanaging. He also found lifelong friendships and direction for the next steps forward for his own career
path and educational journey.
The decision to be a missionary ended up being a good thing for kids, too. “I was able to share my testimony at the school with the kids,” Leavelle says. “While they didn’t go through all the same things, some kids were struggling with loss and depression. It got real and I had some amazing connections with them.”
It is clear that Jesse has loved taking time to be a student missionary. He says he brought his love of hockey with him, teaching the kids to play in the gym and handing out a few jerseys to the students who seemed the most eager to learn. While
the days were long and tough, it is something he is very glad he did. Through this experience he has a testimony about God’s guidance in his life as he feels he might not have remained clean and sober if he had not chosen to go. God knew what He was doing and what direction He wanted to take Leavelle’s life. Since Leavelle chose to answer the call and follow in faith, he reaped the rewards God had in store for him.
Does God have a blessing for you—one that you would not get if you did not answer His call on your life? If you are thinking about becoming a missionary, Leavelle says, “Pray about it, 100 percent,
but at the same time, do it. It will be the hardest and the best experience. So much growth will come out of it. The connection and community you will have will stay with you for a long time. To be able to show these kids who God is, is so special. Even though I was never the ideal missionary and have my imperfections, my relationship with God was still strong and I’ve been able to share God and His righteousness by faith.”
After Leavelle wrapped up the school year he was able to take a few quick trips to Japan and then Australia on his way back home. He saw the world, met people, shared the gospel and continued drawing nearer to God while becoming the healthy son of God he has desired to be.
May you also be someone who answers the call and discovers what God has in store for you.
Holly Lastine is married to Pastor Leif Lastine and lives in Duluth, Minnesota.
Learning from the Maasai
By Jeff Scoggins
As I write this article, I am doing a series of meetings deep in Maasai territory in Kenya. When it was first suggested that the Minnesota Conference participate in a mission emphasis in Kenya, I was a little hesitant because the Adventist Church is stronger in Kenya than just about anywhere else in the world. Having worked for Global Mission for many years, it’s in my blood that we badly need to concentrate on the many non-Christian people groups that remain largely untouched by the gospel. Therefore, when I agreed to travel to Kenya, I asked to work among an unreached group, so I was assigned to the Maasai tribe.
There are some Maasai who are Adventists, and even some who are elders and pastors, but not many. The Maasai cling tightly to their traditions and their peaceful rural lifestyle, and they are not easily convinced to enter the flow of mainstream Kenyan trends that conflict with their culture, including Christianity.
I had no idea how I should approach a series of meetings among the Maasai, and when I asked for advice from other Kenyans they didn’t really know either. They assumed I would do a traditional evangelistic series. But if the people are mostly biblically illiterate, I reasoned, using a standard Adventist evangelistic series just didn’t make sense.
Perhaps, I thought to myself, just telling stories would be the best way to begin.
When I finally arrived in Maasai Land, as it is called, I finally found the opportunity to talk to some Maasai Seventh-day Adventists. I asked their advice for what they thought I should present, and they too shrugged, assuming I would do a standard evangelistic series. When I floated the idea of just telling Bible stories, suddenly I observed a light flicker in their eyes.
“Yes,” they said enthusiastically, “we like that idea!”
We talked it through more and decided that this evangelistic series would be the story of redemption from beginning to end, presented not as thematic theological sermons, but simply as stories—true stories from the Bible.
The first night of the meetings I was driven up into the hills around the city of Kilgoris in western Kenya. The village is called Oldonyo Rasha. The road to the site where I am preaching is more of a footpath, and
the scene at the top of the mountain is idyllic. Unlike the city at the base of the mountain, which is dirty and crowded, the mountaintop is kept in pristine condition as the Maasai live in a close relationship with the nature they love. Their neatly built mud or concrete homes are roofed with tin or grass in the traditional style. Their animals are kept in pastures of intricately woven wood, plants and briars to keep them safe from predators.
To welcome my arrival, the brightly dressed group escorted me to the site with a choreographed march and singing. They “covered” me with a shukah (the traditional Maasai blanket) and gave me a Maasai name that means rain. Then we walked across to the opposite hill where they hope one day to construct a church. There, as the sun set, they gave me an olive tree seedling, which I planted to mark the event.
The next night I started the meetings telling the story of when sin entered heaven, and then night by night I worked through the highlights of the
and so on. A week into the meetings, which was halfway through the two-week series, I started telling stories of Jesus ...
Read the rest of this story at outlookmag.org/ learning-from-themaasai
Old Testament stories: creation, flood, Babel, Abraham
Jeff Scoggins is president of the Minnesota Conference.
Photos: Courtesy Jeff Scoggins
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE
Exemplifying a Life Lived Faithful to the Call
Agape Hammond
If you have been to Newday Adventist Church in Parker, Colorado, you have probably met lead pastor Lisa Cardinal. Full of smiles and energy, she tries to welcome each new face that comes through the door. This is part of her ministry, and she believes it starts with that initial step of saying “Hi.”
Cardinal has spent 17 years navigating the highs and lows of ministry with an unwavering commitment to her calling. As lead pastor, she ensures that Newday Church remains focused on its mission: Developing passionate Christ followers who love God and serve people But Cardinal’s journey to ministry began long before her current role.
Over 25 years ago, she was part of a church plant that drew deeply from the
spirit of the early church in Acts. Together with others, she prayed, read Scripture and invited people into this community. They shared life, challenged each other and grew together. This experience changed Cardinal’s life and solidified her calling to ministry and, ultimately, shaped how she approaches leadership today.
As a woman in ministry, Cardinal understands that her effectiveness stems from God’s blessing. She reflects, “I believe strengths in leadership and ministry are gifts given by the Holy Spirit to people.” When faced with challenges, Cardinal turns to God directly and regularly spends time alone in nature—following the practices of Jesus. She finds that looking back on lives touched through ministry
Pastor Lisa Cardinal opens worship with a warm welcome.
brings clarity in navigating difficult times.
Mentoring others is also key to her leadership. Cardinal believes that empowering people happens through relationships—by spending time with them and offering opportunities to use their gifts. When it comes to mentoring women specifically, Cardinal advises young women who feel called to ministry to know themselves—their strengths, weaknesses and gifts—and above all, to know God’s voice and say “yes” when He calls. For Cardinal, ministry is not about gender but about responding to God’s call
with faith and confidence.
“Ministry is calling,” she says, “being clear and confident of that calling and knowing our unique strengths and weaknesses—our areas of giftedness—are the best ways to navigate the challenges and successes of ministry.” Her journey exemplifies a life lived in faithful obedience to that calling.
Kelly Loney is director of communication at Newday Adventist Church in Colorado.
Camporee Impacts Wyoming Students
During the International Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, Wyoming, last August the Lake Union Conference Education Department oversaw a record-setting event with
more than 250 volunteers gathered to stuff 6,200 backpacks with school supplies.
Reflecting on this enormous project, LUC associate superintendent Nicole Mattson remarked, “Not only materials.”
were we able to set a record, but students in need across the U.S. are being blessed already with the gift of a beautiful backpack stuffed with school supplies and even some ‘get-to-know-Jesus’
One community blessed by this program was Casper, Wyoming. The Casper Adventist Church was able to bring home more than 600 backpacks from camporee,
Photos: Rocky Mountain Conference
Campion Welcomes a Diverse Student Body
Exactly 137 students brought new life to the campus at the start of the school year at Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado.
The Campion Academy Student Association officers kicked off the event by introducing this year’s theme, “I am,” which affirms each person’s value in God’s eyes. Each month the theme will
conclude the statement with a different word, starting with “I am chosen” and followed by others such as “I am redeemed.”
Student Association spiritual vice president Evie Lange provided an opening devotional thought on the theme.
Students drew closer with their classmates both socially and physically during the classic icebreaker games of the hula-hoop pass and the human knot. The evening concluded with the handshake event in which the student body and staff formed a long line to introduce themselves,
shake hands and welcome each person.
In 2023, Campion started with 122 students, so the growth in enrollment is positive. The freshman class has 26 students, larger than it has been for the past three years.
A new freshman, Hannah Manase, shared, “It was a really cool experience. I liked seeing everyone at the school and learning all their names. I loved how the games introduced class bonding time.”
In addition, the number of international students has reached a new school record of 25 from six different countries.
“I got to meet a lot of new people, and the games were
exciting,” reflected Azusa Shirakuma, a new sophomore from Japan. “I loved meeting the staff; they were very amazing.”
The senior class, returning with 49 students, is the largest class and shows the potential to provide positive leadership to the school.
Olivia Arizola, a returning senior, commented, “It was exciting getting to see all the new faces, while seeing the familiar faces was comforting. I am very excited for my senior year and to get to know all these people that I shook hands with.”
Jill Harlow is communications director for Campion Academy.
and church members immediately got to work sharing with their community.
The Casper church family passed out more than 250 backpacks on August 18 to those who responded to the invitations and advertising on social media. Among the
hardworking volunteers were Pathfinders visiting from the city of Townsville in northeastern Australia. One of the Australian Pathfinders was an eighth grader named Hayleigh who said, “It was very nice to see each person come through with such
(far left) Pastor Michael Taylor at the packing tent during the 2024 International Pathfinder Camporee.
(left) Casper residents at the backpack distribution event.
gratitude and appreciation. It made me feel happy and proud that I could help others in your community.”
The abundance of backpacks shared from camporee allowed the Casper Church to reach beyond that initial distribution. They gifted other community service organizations, such as their local Boys and Girls Club and the Casper Rescue Mission, with almost 200 bags.
One group who received backpacks was the Dean Morgan Middle School’s
Clothes Closet in Casper. The closet is overseen by Ms. Stephanie Knight, who was deeply moved by the donation. She commented, “These backpacks are such a blessing to our school. We have many students who don’t have the means to get a new bag when they need one, so this will go a long way this year.”
Michael Taylor is head pastor at the Casper and Wheatland Seventh-day Adventist churches.
Union Adventist University Enrollment Hits Five Year High
This year, 799 students have chosen to pursue their God-given calling at Union Adventist University. That’s an increase of 126 over last year (673), and the highest headcount since 2019. Union’s enrollment has seen a slow but steady decline since 2007 when it briefly exceeded 1,000 students. With errors and delays in the application for federal financial aid (FAFSA) as well as the economic pressures of inflation and high interest rates, it seemed like only a miracle could reverse the trend this year. So Union’s
faculty and staff asked for one. Every Wednesday this summer, employees gathered to pray in the College View Church, earnestly asking God to bring students who will benefit from Union’s rigorous academic programs and unique campus culture.
“These are prayed-for students,” said Dr. Yami Bazan, university president. “We are praising God for growth both in new students and overall enrollment. Each of our students is writing their success story, and we are grateful and privileged to play a role in it.”
In addition to praying,
Gio Maldonado, Rene Adrian-Gaus and Dominick Maldonado prepare for Project Impact on Sept. 5.
faculty from across campus got involved with the recruitment process this summer. Union’s academic programs each hosted a Zoom session to connect with prospective students and answer questions. Due to the many issues with the new FAFSA, Student Financial Services worked even longer hours than usual to provide accurate financial aid packages for applicants. While this freshmen class is 10 percent larger than last year’s, first-year students don’t account for all of the growth. The number of graduate students increased by five to 104, exceeding 100 for the first time in Union’s history thanks to the inaugural class in the new Master of Occupational Therapy Program. The university
also welcomed 61 transfer students and 25 returning students who are back to complete their degrees after a period of absence.
“I cannot praise the faculty, staff and College View community enough, particularly Student Financial Services, Records and Enrollment who went the extra mile (or extra thousand miles) to help overcome the additional obstacles students faced this year,” Bazan said. “God has blessed us with an amazing community of students. It’s a joy to see our team — our Union family — in action.”
Stories on these pages by Union Adventist University News.
U.S. News Rankings Highlight Union’s Value
In the annual “Best Colleges” rankings published by “U.S. News and World Report,” Union Adventist University placed 14th in its category of Midwestern regional colleges. This is the 19th consecutive year Union has been ranked in the top tier, and it’s the university’s highest placement yet, surpassing last year’s position (15) by one.
Union Adventist University also appeared in two of the publication’s more focused lists:
• 15th in its category for “Top Performers on Social Mobility.” Students from low income backgrounds are less likely to attend college or complete a degree than those from middle or upper income families, even when adjusting for
high school performance. According to U.S. News, schools like Union graduate economically disadvantaged students at a much higher than average rate.
Ava Fuentes and Brooklyn Wishard served the Lincoln community during Project Impact.
• 9th “Best Value School” in its category. In this list, schools’ ranks are adjusted based on total cost of attendance. As the publication says, “The higher
Photos: Union Adventist University
Why Did You Choose Union?
“I wanted to be in a place where I would be surrounded by people who love God and where I would grow spiritually. In addition to that, a lot of my friends from high school decided to come here, it is semiclose to my home, and I am excited to participate in the activities that are on and off campus.”
—Sami Hoffer from Shakopee, Minnesota, still deciding on a major
“One thing I love about Union is the community. I value positivity, and here it is all around me. I also enjoy meeting new people. Growing up in the same school and community my whole life, meeting new people was a rarity for me, so this all has been so new and fun!”
—Katelyn Carlson, elementary education major from Lincoln, Nebraska
“I enrolled at Union because I really liked the small campus and familial atmosphere I saw when I visited. I love that it feels like home here and that everyone is so friendly. I’m looking forward to getting closer to the friends I’ve made so far this year.”
—Jenna Wilson, prespeech pathology major from Yucaipa, California
“My parents played a big role in why I came to Union. A friend of theirs recommended it to them because their kid loved it, and so far I like it too. The campus is really nice and so are the businesses across the street.”
—Ryan DeWitt from Burtonsville, Maryland, still deciding on a major
Compiled by Rebekah Fingerson, a junior English education major from Wisconsin.
(below) Corbin Schlisner (center) leads out in prayer during a recent student picnic. Schlisner is a junior computer science major from Davey, Nebraska, and this year’s Student Association financial vice president. the quality of the program and the lower the cost, the better the deal.”
The rankings divide schools based on classification and region, and the category of Midwestern Regional Colleges is particularly competitive. Union’s score of 73 (out of 100) is the highest out of all the Seventhday Adventist colleges and universities, and second highest for any institution in Nebraska.
“These rankings are a testimony to the commitment of Union’s employees, the Seventh-day Adventist churches in Mid-America, and our loyal alumni,” said Dr. Yami Bazan, president of Union Adventist University.
“We have all come together to create a high quality learning environment for students from diverse economic and family backgrounds — that shared purpose is why we call it Union.”
Photos: Union Adventist University
Leaders Gather to Explore the Sacred Rest of Sabbath, Integrating Faith at Work
Executive leaders from the Seventh-day Adventist Church and AdventHealth convened for three days at AdventHealth’s annual Conference on Mission to explore two vital topics: sacred rest and integrating faith into the workplace.
During the first day’s keynote address, Dr. David Miller, director of the Princeton University Faith & Work Initiative, inspired attendees to view their workplaces as arenas for sacred opportunities. He challenged them to reflect on innovative ways to incorporate their faith into their professional lives.
“We are called by God, just like those who are ordained. The secular places in which we work are an arena for the sacred.”
With this foundation in mind, Jeffrey Bromme, Esq., executive vice president and chief legal officer at AdventHealth, opened a thought-provoking
Terry Shaw, president and CEO of AdventHealth, talks about the power of stewardship and the Sabbath to make people feel whole.
conversation on the sacredness of Sabbath rest. He identified three key components of the Sabbath: relationship, remembering and reflecting.
In discussing relationship, Bromme emphasized that the Sabbath is fundamentally a day of feasting—filled with music, worship, food, love and friendships. He suggested that this feast is something
many in the world may not even realize they crave. “If we tasted just a crumb of Sabbath, would we want more?” he asked.
Regarding remembering, Bromme highlighted that the Sabbath invites us to celebrate the gift of remembrance. “We remember that God has given us all of our days—He has redeemed us,” he said.
In the realm of reflecting, Bromme noted that the Sabbath rest encourages introspection. “The heart of Christ’s healing ministry was soul healing,” he explained. “Physical healings validated His audacious claim of power to heal souls.”
“What does this suggest about AdventHealth’s work?” he asked. “Can our work be more than physical healing? Can our facilities be imbued with the stirring possibility of soul healing? Might it be argued that the Sabbath experience is indispensable to soul healing? And if it is, we must somehow connect Sabbath to our holy work if that work is to be made complete.”
Olesea Azevedo , executive vice president and chief administrative officer at AdventHealth, led the group in a thought-provoking message centered on the essence of stewardship. “A Christian steward is entrusted with what is
Photos: Matt Rainey
God’s. He takes up God’s work,” said Azevedo. For those at AdventHealth, she explained, we are stewards of Christ’s healing ministry.
Azevedo acknowledged that the world’s needs can often feel overwhelming. However, we do not have to solve it all. “Jesus didn’t try to be everywhere and everything,” she said. “He focused on being exactly where His
father wanted Him to be.”
“At AdventHealth, we are stewards by design. We stand in the perfect heart of Christ and by God’s grace, our imperfection is enough. We ask Christ every day to work in our hearts as we help people feel whole. We often fall short but by God’s grace we also succeed. We were made for this.”
Azevedo challenged the
attendees to reflect: How does a glimpse of the perfect heart of Christ call you to do what you aren’t currently doing? And what risks are we willing to take for the world and the people in it by adopting the mindset of constantly looking for the stewardship of moments?
In response to Azevedo and Bromme’s insights, Terry Shaw, president and CEO of AdventHealth, remarked: “If we allow Sabbath and stewardship to be the lens through which we understand and practice leadership, we position ourselves to help people feel whole.”
The conference concluded on Sabbath morning with a beautiful church service that featured uplifting music, inspirational stories from across the AdventHealth system and a moving message from Dr. Ron Smith, president of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
The musical worship was led by the AdventHealth Orchestra comprised of AdventHealth team members, alongside Take 6, the acclaimed 10-time Grammywinning vocal group which was formed in 1980 in what is now Oakwood University. In addition to well-known worship music, both groups performed original pieces featured on the newly released AdventHealth album.
In his message, Dr. Smith outlined four pillars of restoration based on the story of Samson from the book of Judges. He emphasized that, just as pillars are central to architecture, these four principles can help us stay focused during challenging times.
The first pillar asserts that each person’s existence is intentional, not accidental. The second pillar highlights that God has a mission for His people. The third pillar explains how God desires His people to function, while the fourth pillar assures us that God is always present with His people.
He concluded by stating that Christ’s healing ministry is fundamentally about restoration. “God can use any willing leaders to restore broken people,” Smith said. “When you lose your commitment to the mission, your heart aches to feel those pillars once more. Don’t lean on the wrong pillars. Lean on Jesus. He is the ultimate restorative pillar.”
Elizabeth Camps is senior communications specialist at AdventHealth.
(below) Take 6, the 10-time Grammywinning group formed at Oakwood University, leads a musical worship.
Photos: Matt Rainey
Adams, Peter Whitcomb, b. May 27, 1939. d. July 24, 2023. Member of Lincoln Piedmont Park (NE) Church.
Boicourt, Max O., b. Oct. 23, 1934 in White River, SD. d. Aug. 25, 2024 in Spangle, WA. Member of Campion (CO) Church from 19792011. Preceded in death by wife Anna Maye. Survivors include daughters Teri and Mindy; sons Barry and Brad.
Gill, Edna (Brenneise), b. April 27, 1920 in Eureka, SD. d. July 26, 2024 in Eureka, SD. Member of Bowdle (SD) Church. Preceded in death by husband William; 2 brothers. Survivors include son Donald; 2 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren.
Glass, James C., b. Aug. 12, 1965 in St. Louis, MO. d. May 14, 2024 in Poplar Bluff, MO. Member of Poplar Bluff Church. Preceded in death by girlfriend Anna; 1 sister.
Johnson, Valoris P., Jr., b. Jan. 13, 1934 in Spirit Lake, IA. d. Aug. 4, 2024 in Spirit Lake, IA. Member of Spencer (IA) Church. Preceded in death by wife Carol; son Brent; 1 sister; 1 great-grandchild. Survivors include daughter Julie; son Norvin; 6 grandchildren.
Jonietz, Kenneth, b. Dec. 15, 1928 in Williston, ND. d. Aug. 21, 2024 in Jamestown, ND. Member of Jamestown Church. Preceded in death by wife Lillian; 2 sisters. Survivors include daughters Vickee Anderson and Sally Nuhs-
baumer; son David; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mattheis, Lola, b. April 13, 1929 in Harvey, ND. d. Aug. 11, 2024 in Harvey, ND. Member of Harvey Church. Preceded in death by 2 sisters; 3 brothers.
Nelson, Lyle Marvin, b. Nov. 3, 1932 in Tolstoy, SD. d. Aug. 14, 2024 in Aberdeen, SD. Member of Aberdeen Church. Preceded in death by 2 sisters; 1 brother. Survivors include wife Roxann; daughter Lori Blinder; sons Troy, Terry, and Alan; 1 sister; 8 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren. Served in the U.S. Army.
Ruffcorn, John D., b. May 1, 1927 in Minneapolis, MN. d.
Aug. 29, 2024 in Loma Linda, CA. Past member of Steven’s Avenue (MN) Church and College View (NE) Church. Preceded in death by wife Carol Jean; daughter Susan. Survivors include daughter Sharon Dolinsky; 2 granddaughters. Former president of Loma Linda University Medical Center and former administrator of Washington Adventist Hospital.
Schumacher, Iris (Spitzer), b. Oct. 22, 1935 in Long Lake, SD. d. July 26, 2024 in Shelby, SD. Member of Bowdle (SD) Church. Preceded in death by husband Robert; 2 infant great-grandchildren. Survivors include daughters Deborah Geary and Janice Sayler; son Rodney; 10 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren.
SERVICES
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Summit Ridge Retirement Village: An Adventist community in a rural setting that offers affordable homes or apartments and caring neighbors with a fellowship you’ll enjoy. On-site church, planned activities and transportation as needed. Also, Wolfe Living Center offering independent living and nursing home. Website: www.summitridgevillage.org or call Bill Norman at 405.208.1289.
Holiday Programs: Fill your life and home with a Christian Christmas spirit. LifeTalk Radio plays Christmas music all through December with special concerts nightly at 8 pm ET, December 21-25. Enjoy Christmas music 24/7 at LifeTalk.net.
Partner with ASAP Ministries in serving the marginalized and reaching the unreached in Southeast Asia with the wholistic gospel. What you do today can change a life for eternity! To learn more visit asapministries.org. Subscribe to our weekly Mission Matters videos. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube: asapministries.
FOR SALE
Shop for New/Used Adventist Books: TEACH Services offers used Adventist
books at www.LNFBOOKS. com or new book releases at www.TEACHServices. com or your local ABC. Authors let us help you publish your book with editing, design, marketing and worldwide distribution. Call 706.504.9192 for a free evaluation.
EMPLOYMENT
It Is Written seeks qualified and talented candidates for full-time positions, including: Director of Planned Giving and Trust Services, Trust Officer for the Central Region, and Associate Director of Development. For more information about these and other positions, and to apply online, please visit itiswritten.com/employment.
Union Adventist University is seeking applicants for a
full-time nursing faculty. This individual will function as a lead course instructor for a medical-surgical or critical care course, including performing didactic and clinical instruction as well as recruiting and supervising clinical instructors. Doctoral degree preferred, Master’s degree with desire to continue at the doctoral level required. Full benefits package including healthcare, tuition assistance, retirement plan, and many other benefits. See job description ad instructions for application at uau.edu/ employment.
Union Adventist University is seeking an electrician. This is a full-time position with generous benefits including tuition assistance for dependents. The Electrician is responsible for the installation and repair of all electrical distribution
systems, low voltage systems, lighting, motors, and appliances. A Master Electrician’s license is preferred but not required. Please see the full job description and instructions for application at uau. edu/employment or contact Paul Jenks at paul.jenks@ uau.edu.
Union Adventist University seeks applicants for an Expedition Coordinator/ Faculty to lead in the International Rescue and Relief Program. This is a full-time, exempt, faculty position with generous benefits. The Coordinator will work on campus during the fall semester and plan the spring semester abroad, as well as help out with other program initiatives. The Coordinator will lead out in the spring semester abroad, accompanying students and coordinating class instruction, planning, and logistics. Please see the full job description and
instructions for application at uau.edu/employment
Union Adventist University has an opening for a Clinical Coordinator for the Physician Assistant Program. This position provides administrative support, organizes and schedules the clinical rotation year including clinical sites and housing, prepares affiliation agreements, and other duties. This is a full-time position with a generous benefits package that includes tuition subsidy. Please see the full job description and instructions for application at uau.edu/employment.
EVENTS
The Council Bluffs, Iowa Adventist Church is having a Spring Revival on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 6:00 pm and Saturday, April 26, at 11:00 am, 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm. Our subject is Faith. All are invited.
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY OFFERING JANUARY 11 2025
GIVE YOUR OFFERING ONLINE AT ADVENTISTGIVING.ORG Search for “Liberty” under “World Offerings”
New Ties to Care
This year, a group of 34 team members from the AdventHealth Mid-America region joined forces to leave their footprints in Kenya, AdventHealth’s 16th international partnership location. With the company’s overarching goal to grow its Global Missions program, this trip marked AdventHealth’s o cial partnership with Kendu Adventist Hospital, where 15 nurses, four medical providers and two surgical teams saw over 500 patients each day and performed approximately 57 surgical procedures.
Established in 1925 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Kendu Adventist Hospital, located in Homa Bay County on the eastern part of Lake Victoria, has 170 beds and o ers preventive care and diagnostic, curative and rehabilitative services for its patients.
In recent years, Kendu Adventist Hospital has undergone significant growth, extending its reach to include a School of Medical Sciences, an elementary school and a Comprehensive Care Center, in addition to its existing hospital facilities. This institution’s foundation lies in its commitment to serving others with dedication, empathy and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.
To learn more about AdventHealth Global Missions, visit AdventHealthGlobalMissions.com.
Several nurses from AdventHealth ICU and Labor and Delivery units worked with Kendu teams on quality and workflow tactics, assessing opportunities for future education.
