OUTLOOK – September 2023

Union College President to Retire p. 27 +

500 Attend Hispanic Youth Congress p. 12

—Ron

OUTLOOK (ISSN 0887-977X) September 2023, Volume 44, Number 9. 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. ©2023 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

“I consider myself privileged to be Salem’s mother because having him in my life causes me to run to God.” —p. 5

ONLINE

MID-AMERICA UNION CONFERENCE

President Gary Thurber

Secretary

Hubert J. Morel Jr. Treasurer

David VandeVere

Church Ministries

Tyrone Douglas

Communication

Brenda Dickerson

Education

LouAnn Howard

mag.org

NEWS AND INSPIRATION

FEEL WHOLE AND FLOURISH

A first-of-its-kind survey from Cigna, conducted during the pandemic, found that of the more than 10,000 U.S. adults studied only 18 percent had high vitality. Those individuals were healthier, more likely to exercise, less likely to be obese and more likely to have a primary care doctor.

Hispanic Ministries

Roberto Correa

Human Resources

Raylene Jones

Ministerial

Craig Carr

Religious Liberty

Darrel Huenergardt

Women’s Ministries

Nancy Buxton

midamericaadventist.org

OUTLOOK STAFF

Editor: Brenda Dickerson

No More Body Shaming rmcsda.org/commentary-nomore-body-shaming

“Feel whole,” the brand promise of AdventHealth explored in this issue, focuses on being good stewards of what God has given us: mentally, spiritually, physically and emotionally. Jesus says, “I have come that you may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Feeling whole is the result of healing and growing, and it will always lead— eventually—to resiliency and flourishing.

Burnout Prevention Strategies

outlookmag.org/burnoutprevention

We pray that as you read this issue you will be inspired to find new ways to feel whole, and to help others along on their journeys as well.

Managing Editor: Barb Engquist

Digital Media Manager: Hugh Davis outlookmag.org

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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

Andrews University to Explore Wholistic Healing

During Free Event outlookmag.org/andrewswholistic-event-23

Rocky Mountain Rajmund Dabrowski rayd@rmcsda.org

303.733.3771 rmcsda.org

UNION COLLEGE

Ryan Teller ryteller@ucollege.edu

402.486.2538 ucollege.edu

BRENDA DICKERSON editor

Photo by Matt Rainey

Do You Care?

The Scripture records two times when someone asked Jesus the question, “Don’t you care?” The first took place on the Sea of Galilee when an angry squall came up. Waves began to break over the boat so that it was nearly swamped. During all of this Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the back of the boat. The disciples woke Him. “‘Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?’” Jesus “got up … and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ … and it was completely calm” (Mark 4:38-39).

Did Jesus not care when the storm was raging?  Of course He did. It’s just that He knew all along that they would safely reach the other side. But only when the disciples could see the evidence were they at peace that everything was going to be all right.

The second time we read the words “Don’t you care?” occurred when Jesus was at the home of Mary and Martha. Mary sat at Jesus’ feet listening to His teachings, while Martha labored in the kitchen. Finally, in utter frustration, Martha came to Jesus.

“‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?’” (Luke 10:40). Jesus answered by giving Martha a new perspective. He said Mary had made the better choice—that heart devotion to the Lord pleases Him more than sacrificial work.

God cares, we care!

“Lord, don’t You care?”  We ask those words when we’re in a situation where we can see no logical explanation. And the answer? Yes, God does care. Psalm 95 says, “For he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care” (Ps. 95:7).

The followers of Jesus who have experienced God’s gracious care need to be certain that when that question is asked of us, we can show that we do care. One of the ways Seventh-day Adventists can do that is through our medical work.

From the beginning of our denomination, we have seen the care of the sick and hurting as a vital part of our mission. There are no strings attached to the care our hospitals offer. The healing ministry of Christ is extended to all, no matter if they have faith or financial means. I have seen this commitment at work in our local AdventHealth facilities in the Kansas City area (see Deanne’s story across the page).

At AdventHealth hospitals you will find whole-person care, dedicated teams and

staff and a wide variety of medical services. Patients receive expert medical care, are guided by a patient advocate and always have the option to speak with a hospital chaplain.

As a member of the board at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission for the past 17 years, I can attest to the reality of AdventHealth’s sincere commitment to extending the healing ministry of Christ in their community. I witness, firsthand, hospital leadership wresting with the complicated challenges of relevant healthcare while never forgetting they are a Seventh-day Adventist institution.

As Adventists, we too should be dedicated to extending the healing ministry of Christ. Whenever someone is in a storm that looks like it’s going to do them in and no one seems to care, may they realize through us—doing what we can, where we are—that God does see and care.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2).

clinical programs, and free or low-cost classes and support groups.

Just as you’re always striving to help the people you care about, AdventHealth team members are always working to enhance the lives of those in their communities. That’s why AdventHealth Shawnee Mission offers free services like healthcare education, special clinical and non-

RON CARLSON

is president of the KansasNebraska Conference headquartered in Topeka, Kansas.

Privileged

Courtesy Deanne Snell

I by an Outcast

came home feeling empty. The kids and I had just been at a birthday party filled with lovely people and fun activities, but because of Salem’s differences I had spent most of the party in a separate room with him, away from the festivities so he would be less overwhelmed. I hardly saw Eden and Ezra, fully enjoying all the party had to offer. “I felt like an outcast,” I later explained to my husband Nick when we caught up on each other’s days.

Salem has completely rocked my world. Because of his genetic differences, he perceives and experiences life differently. I love him in a way I have never had to love before and at the same time, my heart is broken every day because of his struggles. Currently, he is going through the process of getting diagnosed for autism. Salem’s frustration with not being understood continues to grow and the stress he experiences because of perceiving things differently often results in yelling, hitting, ripping and more.

Just two days ago, he was kicking Ezra because he didn’t know how to handle his anger, and when I removed him from kicking he began biting down hard on his own fingers.

Agonizing over this trial I was excited to find that the latest episode of the Homeschool Made Simple podcast had an interview with Sandy Hay, associate director for Wheaton

College’s Center for Faith and Disability. The center’s goal is to equip and provide resources to communities so they can fully embrace all people regardless of disability in educational, worship and organizational life. It was such a hopeful podcast of how people with disabilities are also a part of the body of Christ, and we will only function at our best if they are included in it.

As I pondered the idea that the body of Christ would only function at its best if people with disabilities are fully included in it, I realized, That must mean that in the plan God has for me, I will function at my best because of Salem being in my life.

A story of hope

Later, a church member recommended we try to get Salem into the B.E. Smith Family Center connected with AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, close by our house, to receive services there.

We were able to take a tour

and it was the most amazing facility I had ever been to. Not only was there occupational, physical and speech therapy, there was music and water therapy, an autism classroom, a preschool, an outdoor playground, an indoor gym and much more. The building was designed and decorated in a way that was beautiful and inspiring.

Even better, they had a scholarship program for families to help ease their financial burdens. For a family of our income, we would only have to pay $35 per month for all the services. To get Salem into this facility would be a dream. But, of course, with all this place has to offer we were told there was a two-year wait list.

As we got back into our car, I looked at Nick and said, “Well, the only thing we can do is pray.” We turned to our kids in the back seats and prayed together. We prayed at home during our evening worships, and sometimes Ezra would pop into my room before heading to bed just to

tell me, “Don’t forget to pray that Salem gets into that facility, Mommy.”

Three weeks later I was in the middle of cooking dinner when my phone rang. “Hello,” I said casually. “Hi!” a woman said excitedly, “Could I please speak to the parents of Salem Snell?”

“Yes, I am his mother,” I said, assuming it was his doctor’s office. The woman proceeded to tell me she was from the B.E. Smith Family Center and they had found Salem a spot in occupational, physical and speech therapy, and he could have his assessment in three weeks! I struggled with tears throughout the rest of the call. That day, some of the self-sufficiency and selfrighteousness I struggle with died, and my faith grew. Perhaps I don’t need to fear feeling like an outcast with the challenges that Salem brings into my life. I consider myself privileged to be Salem’s mother because having him in my life causes me to run to God. Being Salem’s mom gives me more Jesus. And more Jesus is the greatest privilege we can all have, no matter our situation in life.

Deanne Snell is a full-time mom who loves to read, travel, eat good vegan food, spend time outdoors and connect deeply with God and people.

Read the full story at outlookmag.org/privileged-outcast

Sharing Wholeness

with the community

It is an invitation to experience wholeness in all aspects of life—body, mind and spirit. And it is how AdventHealth approaches caring for the people in their facilities and in their communities. Seeing each person as a whole person who deserves to feel whole in every aspect of their lives.

Feel Whole Through Health

With a focus on connecting and supporting the local community in Shawnee, Kansas, AdventHealth partnered with local schools Shawanoe Elementary School and Trailridge Middle School. The neighborhood where the schools are located was identified through the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) in 2019 and has been leading the way to build additional partnerships with other local organizations to increase the positive impact in the community.

“As part of AdventHealth’s community health plan, the hospital supports Shawanoe Elementary School in connecting

low-income and minority families with needed resources,” said Jeanette Metzler, community benefit manager at AdventHealth in Kansas. “As part of the back-to-school events, Shawanoe teachers and staff delivered backpacks and books that were donated by AdventHealth to their students living in the neighboring apartments. The families were invited back to the school for a picnic and enjoyed a colorful shaker of fruit also provided by the hospital.”

The evening before the school year began, families attended the school’s “Sneak-A-Peak” to see their classrooms and meet their teachers. AdventHealth invited community partners to assist parents in scheduling immunizations and to connect families to other resources including health coverage and food assistance. The New Haven Hope Bus, a mobile food pantry, was also onsite for families needing extra assistance with food.

Through the partnership with the schools, AdventHealth has also been able to host kid’s clubs—a benefit for both the school and the community. One of those clubs is the Kids Healthy Cooking Club taking place after school over six weeks. Lisa Markley, MS, RDN, director of culinary medicine

Feel whole— it’s the brand promise at AdventHealth. But what does it mean?

Matt Rainey

at AdventHealth Kansas City connected with Kansas State University Extension to create a curriculum and provide Master Food volunteers for the club to make the most out of the time they would have with the kids during each meeting. “We did classes on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and talked about how each supports key aspects of your health,” said Markley. “Some of the kids even recreated their favorite recipes at home from the club including our rainbow salsa, English muffin pizzas and peanut butter chocolate chip energy bites.”

The cooking club has made a major positive impact on the kids and families from the school. “When we surveyed the kids after the six-week club, 46% said they are eating more fruits and vegetables, and 37% said they have prepared the recipes they learned at home,” said Metzler.

Feel Whole Through Learning

This summer, up to 100 kids and grandkids of AdventHealth team members in Colorado enjoyed participating in summer camp as part of the long-standing partnership and collaboration between AdventHealth and the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

“Through the generous funding of AdventHealth, we have been able to offer $250 scholarships to young campers whose parents

or grandparents work at AdventHealth hospitals in Colorado,” shared Brandon Westgate, youth director at the Rocky Mountain Conference. “It has been a really impactful partnership, with many of these campers telling us that camp has been one of the most impactful weeks of their life.”

Summer camp scholarship recipients were able to attend a one-week camp session at either Glacier View Ranch in Ward, Colorado, or Mills Spring Ranch in Casper, Wyoming. Campers selected from various age-specific sessions, including the Explore, Adventure, Ignite, Summit or Teen Outpost Camp, with camp sessions running in June and July. Campers enjoyed different guided activities with their cabin mates and counselor. Older participants were able to sign up for their favorite activities, including rock climbing, horsemanship, swimming, bouldering, canoeing and arts and crafts.

“My boys have both attended the Explore Camp in the past, and they can’t wait to return,” shared Emily Stenzel, New Life Center clinical coordinator at AdventHealth Avista. “The variety of activities allowed them to try a number of new things. They especially enjoyed archery, morning worship, horseback riding and the [fort building] course. Being away from home for the week allowed them to feel a

sense of independence and self-fulfillment.”

To learn more about the scholarship opportunity for AdventHealth families in Colorado, visit RMCYouth.org.

Feel Whole Through Worship

Shortly after the opening of AdventHealth Castle Rock south of Denver, Colorado, David Martinez, director of mission integration for that facility, realized there was no Adventist church in Castle Rock for church members to worship locally. “Some of us that worked in the hospital decided we needed to start a church plant here at the hospital to meet that need,” said Martinez.

He shared his hopes for a new church community with the Rocky Mountain Conference and soon they began collaborating to make it happen. The new congregation began meeting in the fourth-floor lobby of the hospital. “We thought it was

a good place to witness,” said Martinez. “Anyone coming in through the front door on Sabbath could hear the music.”

Since then, the church plant has continued to grow and moved to different locations over the years to accommodate their growth. Now, they meet in the hospital conference rooms allowing them to continue to add to the congregation and allow for families of patients in the hospital to attend the church services too.

“The mission of the church is to really nurture the local community, and they even round in the hospital and will have dedicated prayer time for those in the hospital,” said Martinez. “We have had family members of patient’s worship with us, even security guards and associates from the hospital join the service. And I think that is really just a beautiful thing.”

Elizabeth Camps is senior communications specialist at AdventHealth.

Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

Community Comes First at AdventHealth

Serving the community is at the heart of AdventHealth’s mission. AdventHealth team members always look for ways to positively transform the lives of those they serve through volunteerism, board service, in-kind and financial donations, sponsorships and partnerships. AdventHealth works in collaboration with nonprofits to ensure communities have the programs, services and resources needed to flourish.

For years, AdventHealth in Kansas has worked to build relationships at two area schools, Shawanoe Elementary and Trailridge Middle, which are both located less than two miles from AdventHealth Shawnee Mission.

As part of the Shawnee Mission School District, Shawanoe Elementary serves

the largest number of students with families living in poverty. Team members work with school social workers to identify and respond to needs of families and children at both schools.

The biggest needs include warm winter clothing, food, personal hygiene items and home cleaning/laundry supplies. Family meal kits, with recipes and extra food, are sent home over winter break with kids who rely heavily on school for breakfast and lunch.

“Teachers are telling us about how kids are so excited to find creative ways to enjoy the fruits and vegetables we send home,” said Jeanette Metzler, community benefit manager at AdventHealth in Kansas.

AdventHealth also supports the schools by:

• Purchasing refrigeration equipment needed for a vaccination clinic that benefits vulnerable children in the community;

• Providing volunteers and financial support for back-to-school events that facilitate access to physicals and immunization for local children;

• Sponsoring an after-school running club for more than 70 elementary students and a healthy cooking club for 18 middle school students;

• Providing teachers and staff with frequent appreciation gifts and classroom supplies;

• Offering experiential learning at the school’s STEM family engagement night where students learn

about careers in healthcare and create beautifully designed posters to share with AdventHealth team members.

“We continue to support Shawanoe and Trailridge in all the ways we have in the past and are also adding some programs for the coming school year to help families get their physicals, immunizations and dental screenings,” said Metzler. “For Shawanoe Elementary, we are providing more than 200 backpacks as part of their ‘Back 2 School Welcome Wagon’ event.”

Although the school programs make up a big part of AdventHealth’s community focus, Metzler and her team also support the New Change 4 Youth program in Kansas City, Kansas. New Change 4 Youth is an Adventist program supporting refugee youth and families from five African and Asian countries through financial support, team member donations, volunteers and medical services.

For the past two years, AdventHealth has sponsored the LOVE Works event. Refugee teen girls and their moms, along with other women in the community, enjoy an evening of pampering, health education and a meal. They leave with a tote full of bath, body and feminine products. AdventHealth also schedules these young women and their mothers for free women’s health screenings. During the holidays, AdventHealth team

members purchase, assemble and wrap a truckload of holiday boxes filled with surprises for over 400 children and assist with delivery.

In addition, AdventHealth supports the Ottawa, Kansas, community by investing in mental health, nutrition and preventive care in Franklin County communities through efforts such as mentoring youth in after-school programs, providing healthy food at community gatherings and taking preventive care information and services to multiple outreach events each year.

“I am amazed at the support from other organizations and community partners when we ask for help,” said Metzler. “They have wholeheartedly joined us as we work toward improving the health of our communities.”

AdventHealth is grateful for organizations like Kansas State University Extension, KC Express Running Club and the Overland Park Rotary Club for providing volunteers and funding for the cooking and running clubs in order to offer extras such as T-shirts and a wide variety of healthy foods.

Jackie Woods is a freelance writer and project manager for AdventHealth in Kansas City.

Mother and daughters receive care packages through the New Change 4 Youth program, supported by AdventHealth.

Courtesy AdventHealth Shawnee Mission

Feel the freedom of whole-person care.

Nap hard. Eat clean. Love big. And start living your best life. Because we’re here to help heal what hurts, ease your mind and lift your spirits with the latest medical innovations and whole-person care. It’s time to take control of your health. It’s time to feel whole.

HOW TO J MAKE THE NEW YOU

ust between you and me, I am tired of setting goals for myself and not accomplishing them. Sometimes when I fail to complete a goal I set for myself, I feel worse than if I would have never set the goal in the first place. I feel like I am better off not setting a goal because I will probably just fail like I did last time.

That is no way to live. To combat this issue, here are a few tips to accomplish your goals.

Write it down. When making a new goal it can be beneficial to write down your goal. Once an idea is transferred from your brain to paper it can seem more real. Like a contract from your old self to your new self. I have even heard of some people writing their goals and then signing the paper to make it seem even more official.

Keep a calendar. If your goal involves you having to do something—or not do something— on certain days, it can be helpful to cross out or put a check mark on the dates you made progress. Looking at a calendar of all of the days you have completed something can really help you stay motivated to continue.

Tell a friend. Similar to writing it down, but potentially way more effective, is telling your friend your goals. A good friend can keep you accountable when times get tough. Make sure the friend you are sharing with is a friend who can handle you wanting to improve yourself. I can tell you from personal experience, sharing your self-improvement goals with the wrong people can lead to discouragement. Some people do not like the idea of you making progress toward a better life while they are not making changes that they know they should be.

Forgive yourself. There will be setbacks. Do not beat yourself up or practice negative selftalk. We all fail and we all fall down, but what matters is how many times we pick ourselves up and keep going.

Remember why. Taking time to remember why you are attempting to improve your life can help you continue. Your why is the fuel for your progress.

Seek a mentor. No matter what your goal is, someone out there has wanted and accomplished that goal. Seek that person out. Most of the time, if you can connect with a person like this, they will be willing to help you in doing the same thing. People love feeling like they are the experts; treat them that way and they will open up and share all the hacks they used for self improvement.

Pray constantly. Maybe this one is obvious, but it is the most important one. If God wants this change in your life and you are connecting with Him, change will occur. I will let you

know, though, the change may not be the one you originally wanted. But I have never met someone who trusted God fully to help them improve their lives or their character who wasn’t a better person in the end. Trust in the Lord to guide you to where He wants you.

These are just different ideas and ways for you to accomplish your goals or to make them stick. Improving your life is not always the easiest task, but if your goals are good and true, your Friend and Savior can help.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).

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DUSTIN STEGEN

is a registered dietitian and the founder of Ten Times Better, LLC, a nutrition consulting business that focuses on connecting faith and food.

Look for the Good Relationship CPR #6

I attended a secular conference

at which the keynote speaker said, “Love in Greek means look for the good.” I’ve never been accused of being a Greek scholar, but I don’t believe she is correct. Even so, I appreciate the sentiment.

Zig Ziglar, arguably the finest motivational speaker this country has ever produced, said, “Some people find fault like there’s a reward for it.” I would find that to be humorous if it were not so true.

Hopefully you have people in your life who can brighten up any room just by entering it—people who are cheery, encouraging and just a delight to be around. Those who frequently find fault in others, on the other hand, can brighten up any room—just by leaving it.

As Christians, we have ample reason to look for the good in others. We have a Savior who, because of His great love for us, went to extremes which words are woefully inadequate to describe. He sees good in us, even when we do not. And He clearly wants us to see the good in His other children as well.

Can you imagine how our churches, workplaces and families would prosper if each person went out of their way to look for, and acknowledge, the good they see in others? Consider for a moment a concept called the RBA or Relationship Bank Account. Like a typical bank account, you may make deposits or withdrawals in other’s lives. Make more deposits and you can expect the balance (health) of the relationship to rise. Make more withdrawals and the opposite is likely to occur.

You have an RBA with every person with whom you interact on a regular basis. It will likely not surprise you to know that scripture is replete with counsel on how to make more deposits and enjoy healthier relationships.

In Eph. 4:31-32 we read, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

We often use Heb. 10:25 to convince people they should

attend church. In the New Living Translation it reads, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near.” If we practiced more of the counsel found in the preceding verse, we would likely have many more people wanting to worship with us. It reads, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” That sure sounds like a “look for the good” relationship deposit to me.

On the negative side, a key withdrawal that we too often make is to point out the bad we see in others. Perhaps we should take to heart what we read in Rom. 14:12-13, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another.”

What you focus on grows

So, here’s a challenge for you. For each of the next 30 days, select three people in your life for whom you will make a specific deposit. It can be a sincere compliment, a genuine offer of assistance, even a simple but warm smile. Please don’t think you have to limit yourself to just three per day, or that you must stop after 30 days.

Modern research is proving that the adage “what you focus on grows” is true—whether your focus is positive or negative. The study of confirmation bias also helps explain why “look for the good” is a path to healthier relationships. I’m so glad that modern day research is finally catching up to what Solomon wrote a few years back “for as a man thinks in his heart, so is he”(Prov. 23:7).

I often say that relationships can be challenging at times. Perhaps forming the habit of looking for the good can make them less challenging. I dare say try it—what have you got to lose?

PRICE is the author of three books and creator of Play Nice in God’s Sandbox video series.

RON

2023 Hispanic Youth Congress Unites and Inspires Young Minds

From July 13-16, the Mid-America Union Conference Multilingual Ministries Department hosted the dynamic 2023 Hispanic Youth Congress, drawing more than 500 enthusiastic individuals. Themed “Heaven: Don’t Miss It for the World,” the event aimed to ignite the spirit of the  participants.

The Maranatha Bible Camp, located in central Nebraska, served as the ideal venue, providing an array of exhilarating activities, including sports tournaments, zip-lining, water activities and seminars. Seminars covering a range of topics relevant to youth were presented by Armando Miranda Jr.  (North American Division), Tyrone Douglas (Mid-America Union), Santiago Fernandez (Union College), and Vanessa Alarcón  (Rocky Mountain Conference).

The main speaker, Pastor

Jose Vicente Rojas, delivered impactful messages about youth engagement in missions, stressing the role of the Holy Spirit in their endeavors. Jenny Mendez, president of the Hispanic Youth Federation in the Minnesota Conference, shared her vision of the youth as catalysts for change within the church. “This generation needs to act and not stay stagnant,” she said.

“I want our young people to see that our current leadership sees their value,” added Pastor Hugo Guillen from the Rocky Mountain Conference. “We need them to continue the work that the Lord has left our church.”

Event organizer Roberto Correa, MAUC multilingual ministries director, expressed his desire for this mission-driven spirit to continue on with the youth federations at the local conferences. “My  hope is for greater unity among our

Over 500 attendees gathered at Maranatha Bible Camp in central Nebraska in July for the 2023 Hispanic Youth Congress. There are now over 100 Hispanic/Spanish language churches in Mid-America Union territory. We praise God for this recent milestone!

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youth, which is what the Lord envisions for our youth in our present day,” he said.

The 2023 Hispanic Youth Congress achieved resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on attendees through inspiring sermons and activities that promoted unity and a shared  purpose. Remarkably, the event culminated in the baptism

of nine youths, signifying its profound effect on their faith. The fervor exhibited by this generation offers bright hope for the future of the church.

Vanessa Alarcón is an elder at the Boulder Adventist Church in Boulder, Colorado.

Photos: Hugh Davis

Congreso de Jóvenes Hispano 2023, une e inspira a las mentes jóvenes

Del 13 al 16 de julio, el Ministerio Hispano de la Unión de Mid-America, organizó el dinámico congreso para la Juventud Hispana 2023, que atrajo a más de 500 personas entusiastas. Con el lema “No pierdas el cielo por el mundo,” el evento tuvo como objetivo encender el espíritu de los participantes.

Maranatha Bible Camp, ubicado en Nebraska, sirvió como el lugar ideal, proporcionando una variedad de actividades emocionantes, que incluyó: torneos deportivos, tirolesa, actividades acuáticas y seminarios. Los seminarios cubrieron una variedad de temas relevantes para la juventud. Fueron presentados por: Armando

Miranda Jr. (NAD), Tyrone Douglas (MAUC), Santiago Fernández (Union College) y Vanessa Alarcón (RMC).

El orador principal, el pastor José Vicente Rojas, entregó mensajes impactantes sobre la participación de los jóvenes en las misiones, enfatizando el papel del Espíritu Santo en sus esfuerzos. Jenny Méndez, presidenta de la Federación de Jóvenes Hispanos en la Conferencia de Minnesota, compartió su visión de los jóvenes como catalizadores para el cambio dentro de la iglesia. “Esta generación necesita actuar y no quedarse estancada.”

“Quiero que nuestros jóvenes vean que nuestro liderazgo actual ve su valor,” agregó el pastor Hugo Guillén, pastor de la Rocky Mountain Conference. “Necesitamos que continúen la obra que el Señor ha dejado en nuestra iglesia.”

El organizador, el Pastor

Roberto Correa, director de los Ministerios Multilingües de MAUC, expresó su deseo de que este espíritu impulsado por la misión continúe con las federaciones juveniles en las conferencias locales: “Mi esperanza es una mayor unidad entre nuestros jóvenes, que es lo que el Señor espera para nuestros jóvenes en nuestros días.”

El congreso de jóvenes Hispano 2023 logró un éxito rotundo, dejando un impacto duradero en los asistentes a través de sermones inspiradores y actividades que promovieron la unidad y un propósito compartido. Sorprendentemente, el evento culminó con el bautismo de nueve jóvenes, lo que significa su profundo efecto en su fe. El fervor exhibido por esta generación ofrece una brillante esperanza para el futuro de la iglesia.

Vanessa Alarcón es anciana de la Iglesia Adventista de Boulder en Boulder, Colorado.

Central States Couples Strengthen Relationships During Retreat

Fifty couples spent a weekend in the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks in a quest to “metamorphosize” their marriages. By the evidence of  the smiles, laughter and comments, the “butterflied” event met its intended goal.   Couples from throughout the Central States Conference and beyond enjoyed a relaxing weekend and were empowered by the transparent marriage ministry of the Marriage Menders, Derrick and Sonya McCollum. From discovering the caterpillar in our lives to understanding the work in the cocoon, and then using God-given tools, couples were encouraged to allow God to make even the best marriages all He wants them to become.

In addition to the seminar sessions, couples had time to fellowship with other

couples, take walks along the lake, enjoy a poolside party and compete in a “Couples Fun-lympics.”

Marlon and Denise Johnson, Central States Conference family ministries directors, and their team of area coordinators were delighted that many of the conference pastors and spouses, as well as conference administrator couples, were in attendance.

Couples were challenged to be ambassadors of marriage and share the message of metamorphosis to couples in their sphere of influence. We hope to have several mini-marriage retreats throughout the conference in the coming months.

Ebenezer Fellowship’s Members Share Christ’s Message in the Great Lakes Region

We at the Ebenezer Fellowship Seventhday Adventist Church in the Great Lakes Region of the Central States Conference are committed to working

together in every ministry to tell everyone about Jesus.

Last month, on our Communications Ministry Day, we gave members over 100 pieces of literature to share with their family, friends and community including Steps to Christ, Victory at Calvary, The Great Controversy, Desire of Ages and more.

Our theme for the year 2023, given by our Pastor

Richard Palmer, is “Until We All Come Into The Unity of The Faith.”

We will start every week to encourage every member to share at least one literature packet with someone.  Our goal is to share at least 80 books a month for the remainder of 2023.

Information supplied by Denise Johnson, family ministries director for the Central States Conference.

Photos Courtesy Central States Conference

Elder Linda Womack leads communication ministries for the Ebenezer Fellowship Church in Minnesota.

Covenant Haitian Group Celebrates Flag Day at Cultural Event

Last May, the Covenant Haitian Group in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, held its first annual Haitian Flag Day cultural event.

This event was held in commemoration of Haitian Flag Day, a national holiday that originated in Haiti but is observed in numerous U.S. cities that have large Haitian populations. Interestingly enough, there is a growing Haitian population in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and we are blessed to have

Haitian Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Haitian flag in 1803. Our church family is grateful to identify with our people and give support to the many Haitians in our community.

an Adventist presence here.

Haitian Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Haitian flag in 1803, and the flag represents Haitian cultural heritage, patriotism and nationalism. It was a beacon of hope in Haiti during the Colonial era. The flag also embodies the efforts for freedom, independence and perseverance

in the face of adversity.

Haitians have gone through many struggles and tribulations, yet they have plenty to celebrate because they are the first black republicans and slaves to achieve independence from the French colonizers. Our church family is grateful to be able to identify with our people and give support to

the many Haitians in our community.

Overall, Haitian Flag Day is a day that many Haitian Americans feel means a lot to them, and they are proud to be able to honor their country’s heritage.

Evenson Louis-Jeune pastors the Covenant Haitian Group in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Photos Courtesy Central States Conference

Coincidence or miracle? From Snack to Survival

it on crackers and seemingly enjoying it. Liverwurst (there are different ways to pronounce it probably depending on your German background) is basically animal liver mixed with seasonings and possibly lard or something to make it spreadable.

Now, I must be clear—my husband is not a Seventh-day Adventist. He does know my food choices, but they are not always his.

I took one look at the snack and thought, Wow, there’s a heart attack waiting to happen! We live in the countryside east of Bismarck, about 12 miles from our business.

instead to call an ambulance.

The doctor asked him when his pain had started. Bob said early in the morning, but he thought he had indigestion. So, he had gotten up and taken some of the aspirin he had bought for me, and it seemed to help until the pain started again. The doctor said this may have saved his life. Although Excedrin contains some aspirin, it also has caffeine and acetaminophen which may not have been as effective as aspirin.

clotting disorder. We believe Factor V took the life of his biological mother when my husband was about six years old. She died of a heart attack at age 26 while carrying a bucket of water into their house when she was pregnant with baby number six.

This past year, my husband had a defibrillator put in his chest to monitor his heart in case there was any trouble. It’s an amazing device, and if he is within reach of a cell tower the device will send information to his doctor.

In March 2016, at the Bismarck Church, I attended a CHIP (Coronary Health Improvement Program) founded by Dr. Hans Diehl. The purpose of the series was to help us improve our cardiovascular systems to avoid disease with diet and exercise. Following one evening’s class, I stopped by our family business in Mandan, North Dakota, to see if my husband Bob needed me for anything before I left for home.

Our business is agricultural, specializing in commercial and farm trailers. It is also a place where there are many non-customer friends who stop by for a conversation with each other and my husband.

This particular night, a customer had brought a food called “liverwurst” and the fellows were spreading

Once I arrived home, I was having a migraine headache. I called my husband to ask him to stop by Walmart on his way home to pick up some Excedrin. Shortly after, he called me from Walmart and said there was no Excedrin. The clerk told him it was pulled from the shelf for some safety recall. He said they had aspirin. I told him to bring that home and I would try it.

Early that morning, at about 4:00 am, Bob told me to get up and take him to the hospital. He thought he was having a heart attack. I quickly got up, called 911, and told them I would be taking him to the hospital.

It took me about 15 minutes to get to the hospital, but when I arrived, there was an entire heart team waiting. Now, I was told that wasn’t the smart thing to do, but

We were told Bob had a blockage in his largest artery, the “widow maker.” A stent was put in place, and we went home the next day.

A defibrillator and a salad

I saw divine intervention here. However, approximately a year and a half later, my husband had a second heart attack when a clot formed over his stent. He was told he had something called Factor V Leiden, an inherited blood

This makes me think I want a spiritual defibrillator near my heart. I want it to let me know when there is trouble. I want it to remind me of my love for my creator God.

By the way, now whenever I ask Bob what he wants for dinner, he says, “A salad!”

Paulette Bullinger is women’s ministries director for the Dakota Conference and a member of the Mandan Church in North Dakota.

Photos: Tosha Rochelle Photography

Dakotas Test New Sabbath School

Curriculum: Alive in Jesus

The Rapid City Adventist Church in South Dakota recently completed a pilot of the new Alive in Jesus Sabbath School Curriculum. According to their website: “The Alive in Jesus Bible curriculum seeks to equip and empower parents, caregivers, Sabbath School teachers, Sabbath School leaders, and others to

model and foster a thriving relationship with Jesus and the children and youth in their spheres of influence.”

This curriculum covers the entire lower division Sabbath school classes, from Beginner to Youth, and will be released in 2025. As part of the curriculum pilot, Rapid City represented not

only the Dakota Conference, but the entire Mid-America Union. Eighty churches encompassing 20 different languages participated in this global pilot.

The Sabbath school teachers attended training through the North American Division and eagerly decorated their classrooms with the provided backdrops and posters. Families were provided preliminary surveys and kids waited excitedly, knowing something new was coming to Sabbath school. The church held a special prayer of dedication lifting up the teachers, families and children, while asking the Spirit to make us all alive in Jesus.

Throughout the quarter-long pilot, teachers made notes such as, “Kids loved this activity,” “This craft was too complex for my age group,” or “I wasn’t able to adequately cover this lesson because a lot of kids arrived late.” Families completed secondary surveys where they shared feedback such as, “Student quarterlies were excellent with beautiful illustrations and creative ideas. It was a little tricky to cover all of the lessons when you have kids in both Kindergarten and Primary.”

If you ask any of the kids what they were learning about in Sabbath school, be prepared to be blown away by the depth of their retention and comprehension. Teachers commented on how engaged the kids were with the lesson activities and illustrations. Families noted that their kids would often bring up questions or comments from the Sabbath school lesson at home, and this led to further study and discussion during their family worship time.

There was a shared sentiment of sadness as the pilot came to a close, but overall participants expressed appreciation for the experience. Near the end of the pilot, Gerry Lopez, associate director of children’s ministry for the NAD, flew out with a videographer to film the kids participating in Sabbath school, conduct interviews and collect feedback. He loved seeing how excited the kids were and shared that at every pilot church he visited, he truly saw this next generation alive in Jesus.

Kelli Wasemiller is elementary education superintendent, children’s ministries coordinator for the Dakota Conference, and a member of the Rapid City Church in South Dakota.

Crista Few

Ron Whitehead Commends TLTs at Spring Pathfinder Camporee

Exactly 307 Pathfinders gathered at Camp Heritage near Climax Springs, Missouri, in May for the last conference Pathfinder event of 2023. Clubs were prepared for rain, but instead encountered beautiful, warm and sunny weather.

Twenty-four clubs attended, including four new ones: Poplar Bluff, Warrensburg, Mountain Grove, and Fulton. The South Pacific Islanders Pathfinder Club attended for the first time in many years.

The 2022-2023 Pathfinder theme has been Synergy with Nature, focusing on the complementary relationship between the natural world of science and a Christian worldview. Many of the weekend’s events were tied into this theme, including Friday’s competitive events, for which clubs had been preparing for weeks. Some of these events included microscope cell identification, flower identification, a fruit matching game, fire-building, canoeing, kayak racing, drilling, marching, tug-of-war and a surprise event where clubs had to work together—or get wet!

The marquee event was the You Are My Strength Sled Race, in which Pathfinders worked together to pull a wooden sled. One Pathfinder would ride on the sled as one teammate pushed while eight would pull, after tying person harness knots.

Friday’s busy activities transitioned to a peaceful vespers service presented by Pastor Lee Rochholz, conference ministerial director.

Pastor Ron Whitehead, director of the Center for Youth Evangelism, visited Camp Heritage during the Sabbath service. His message celebrated Pathfindering and included inspirational stories from past camporees and current preparations for the upcoming camporee in Gillette, Wyoming, which is happening next summer. Whitehead made a call for Iowa-Missouri clubs to attend the International Camporee.

The opportunity to grow closer to God through the Synergy with Nature concept was brought to life when two Pathfinders from Kansas City chose to be baptized by conference youth director Denison Sager on Sabbath afternoon.

Pathfinders and staff witnessed Rubi CortezHernandez and Brizeida Castillo-Trejo (of the Des Moines Spanish Golden Eagles Pathfinder Club) give their hearts to Jesus through baptism.

Elder Sager shared, “This is my favorite place to be in all of Camp Heritage. There are lots of fun and exciting things that happen … at our waterfront, but nothing is more exciting than being right here in our swim area for a baptism when someone has given their life to Jesus and wants to share that moment with their friends.”

Also on Sabbath, Pathfinders wore their Class A uniforms for a camporee-wide uniform inspection before Sabbath services. Then everyone gathered in the pavilion for a special investiture service in which

conference Teen Leadership Training director Nathaniel Brundidge presented a staggering 36 TLTs to be vested. Of those graduating from the TLT program, four were vested with the distinct honor of earning their Master TLT award.

Pastor Whitehead commended Mr. Brundidge and the conference for such a strong TLT program, sharing that the Master TLT award is incredibly difficult to achieve, and to have four in one conference is rare.

Brundidge, who has directed the Iowa-Missouri Conference TLT program since 2016, shared that “at the TLT party, not only did we have the 36 who were invested, but we had an additional 28 students who are not currently TLTs but are eligible.” It is Mr. Brundidge’s hope that even more of these eligible candidates will join the TLT ranks next year.

The camporee concluded with the annual award show on Saturday night in which every club is awarded points earned throughout the year and offered ribbons and

recognition for event participation at the camporee. Also awarded during this ceremony are the popular TLT and Pathfinder of the Year awards.

This year’s Pathfinder of the Year Achievement Awards went to Alan McWilliams of the Ankeny Son-Seekers and Lana Studebaker of the Nevada Frogs. The TLT of the Year Achievement Award was given to Samson Stalker of the Springfield Thunderbolts and Reagan Meade of the Sedalia Pioneers.

The final evening closed with excited TLTs revealing the theme for the 20232024 Pathfinder year: In the Beginning … God. This is part of the broader theme, Pathfinders Around the World. With this theme in mind, Pathfinders move toward a new year this fall and make big preparations for the International Camporee in August 2024.

Rachel Ashworth is Pathfinder director for the Sikeston Peace Point Chapel in Missouri.

Courtesy Rachel Ashworth

Mark and Sarah Wassie: Finding Sabbath

Ilove God with all that I am. I want to obey Him the best I can, exactly how He says, because of what He has done for me. The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift received by grace through faith. We cannot work for it, earn it or add to it. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God—but praise God, Jesus came and removed the penalty of sin.

Yet Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep my commandments.” So, we should seek to obey God’s Word. When we accept the gift of salvation, we also allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us to transform us to live the way God intended us to with Jesus as our example.

I grew up attending church, and I praise God for wonderful parents who faithfully took me to church whenever the doors were open. However, I cannot say I ever felt “rested” when I attended on Sundays. We worked all week, including Sundays, when in the morning we would prepare a big lunch. We would then attend the worship service, afterward returning to complete household chores to prepare for the week ahead, before rushing back to church for the evening service.

Deep down, I always felt like something was missing, but I never knew what—until God showed me the Sabbath. And now, I can tell you my life has changed!

In July 2022, my husband and I randomly came across

a documentary series called The Days of Noah. This series mentioned the Sabbath as being the seventh day. It also recalled the attempts to change God’s Sabbath throughout history. I learned that God placed His own seal on His seventh-day Sabbath and was also reminded that God instituted this day of rest before sin came to Earth.

For the next few weeks, I prayed and studied. I was heavily involved in my Baptist church, and my lack of attendance was immediately noticed. I remember saying to God that habits are hard to break, and if I was to honor God’s Sabbath I would need Him to help break me of Sunday attendance.

Then, the next three

Sundays each of our kids took turns with a one-day illness that involved heavy vomiting. This was an answer to prayer that gave me three weeks to study my Bible and search online for a Sabbath-keeping church. It was then that I found the Houston Seventhday Adventist Church.

Toward the end of August, I had an opportunity to visit this church myself and see “how they measured up” to my old church (which I loved). I immediately felt welcomed and loved as I was warmly greeted at the door with a “Happy Sabbath!” and offered a worship program.

During Bible study, I was also amazed at how well the adults knew the Bible. What touched my heart most was

the love these people had for God and each other. They studied the Bible in spirit and truth, touching on aspects of the gospel accurately.

The following week my husband attended with me and had the same observations. The service reverenced God in ways we had never experienced. Our children enjoyed their classes and didn’t even need us to stay with them. The teachers made them feel right at home and they made friends quickly.

All our children commented that it felt like God had led us to this church. For our whole family, the Sabbath was delightful and finally felt restful!

We have learned so much this past year, and God continues to show us more aspects of His amazing love for us. I am thankful we found a church that teaches us full biblical truth.

Written by Sarah Wassie; submitted by Betty Pester, communication director for the Houston Church in Missouri

After watching the documentary series The Days of Noah

,

Sarah

Wassie

searched online for a Sabbath-keeping church that would welcome

their family.

Courtesy Sarah Wassie

Sah Kler Ordained to the Gospel Ministry A celebration for the Karen community

On May 6, 2023, Sah Kler was ordained to the gospel ministry at the Omaha Karen Seventh-day Adventist Church in Omaha, Nebraska. This ordination was not just a significant moment for Sah Kler’s ministry but also for the Karen community.

Sah Kler graduated from high school in the Karen State and taught at the Sho Per Ko Seventh-day Adventist Middle School for many years. After one year of teaching, he became an Adventist.

Due to civil war, his family moved to a refugee camp in Thailand. While living in the camp, he attended layman ministry training. The training left a big impact on his

life and he started serving God as a church elder. In 2000, the United Nations gave refugees in the camp an opportunity to resettle. Sah Kler’s family moved to Fort Worth, Texas, in 2008.

The Karen Adventists in Fort Worth worshiped in an apartment. Sah Kler and his wife Moo Paws’ children loved being part of Pathfinders and many other church activities.

In 2012 the family moved to Omaha, Nebraska, and started to attend the Karen church there. After one year, the North American Division asked Sah Kler to be the pastor of the Omaha Karen Adventist Church.

“Knowing this was God’s calling for me, I humbly accepted and devoted my life to serve God’s people,” said Sah Kler. Since he did not have  formal theological training, he studied under Pastors Jimmy Shwe, John Sweigart, Virgil Covel and Melvin Santos. In 2014 the Kansas-Nebraska Conference hired Sah Kler.

In 2022 Sah Kler enrolled in the online Ministerial Training offered by Myanmar Union Adventist Seminary. In addition to his work in Omaha, he was asked to look after other Karen believers in Lincoln, Kansas City and Garden City. Sah Kler is also the secretary in the NAD

Karen Ministry and helps advise NAD youth leaders as needed.

The wide impact of Sah Kler’s ministry was evident by the presence of various pastors and church members from around the NAD at his ordination.

May the Lord continue to be with Sah Kler and his family as they minister and serve the Karen community in Omaha and around the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

Saul Dominguez is communication director for the KansasNebraska Conference.

Photos Courtesy Kansas-Nebraska Conference

Piedmont Park Welcomes Faith Community Nurse

Bridging health and faith for a flourishing congregation

eaders of the Piedmont Park Church recently dedicated Tammy Adams as their faith community nurse. This is the first ministry of its kind at Piedmont and possibly within the KansasNebraska Conference.

The North American Division Health Ministries Department describes faith community nurses as trained nurses who serve a church or congregation to improve the health of its members. Faith community nursing, previously called parish nursing, is a growing specialty recognized by the American Nurses Association.

The NAD officially trained Adams in April 2023, but Adams feels she has been in training for this position for her entire professional life. “I

have experienced God preparing me for each step of my journey and know He will provide abundantly,” she shares.

Before this position, Adams was the Union College campus nurse, retiring in 2021. Adams graduated from Union College with her BSN in May 1989, and passed her RN licensure in June of the same year.

As Piedmont’s FCN, her role will consist of being a health advocate, educator, counselor, referral agent, volunteer facilitator and coordinator. Adams wants to help members focus on their health from a faithbased perspective and will work collaboratively with the Piedmont pastoral team.

She said that the FCN idea was brought to her attention

in January 2019 at an NAD Health Summit. “The idea had seemed interesting. I recall briefly conversing with Dr. Eric Johnson, an elder at Piedmont Park, and Pastor Michael [Halfhill] very briefly upon my return from the Health Summit. Then in September of 2022, our congregation lost a single, middle-aged man who lived alone after undergoing a surgery that the health community would usually classify as ‘routine.’ My heart was stirred even more to actively consider what our church could do to support members of our congregations in times of health concern: post-surgery, post-hospitalization.”

Adams submitted an initial proposal to the church board in February 2023. The board asked questions and provided suggestions for Adams to consider. Overall, the church supported the idea and voted to turn it into reality with dedicated funds. The next step was for Adams to attend the NAD Health Summit for training and lay the foundation for operating the program at Piedmont.

However, Adams won’t do this alone; she will partner with other health professionals in the faith community, the pastoral team, and a health and wellness committee team. The NAD Health Ministries team will provide mentoring and continuing medical education credit opportunities.

Adams plans to seek church member input on health topics and their perceived needs via a survey. She would like to implement a “nurse in the lobby” program in which a nurse would be available

during a specific time each Sabbath to discuss health concerns or have prayer together. She is already scheduling member visits and making plans to support the pastoral team in specific ways.

During the dedication, Adams stated, “As a nurse, I will consecrate myself to the gospel ministry as a conduit of love being the feet, hands, heart, voice, eyes, ears, mind and face of Jesus. He is calling me to serve others with purpose and intention. To offer a trusting space to connect and encourage someone in their next steps toward wholeness of mind, body and spirit for the glory of God.”

Adams has a servant’s heart, demonstrated when she and her family cared for Virginia Myers, a senior member of the Piedmont congregation, for some years. The love and support Myers received led her to donate funds to the church after her passing. The board thought it was fitting to use those funds to support this ministry, allowing other individuals to receive the care and attention she received from Adams.

At the dedication, Pastor Halfhill said, “It is exciting to see new ministries begin. We are grateful that Tammy humbly and confidently answered the call that God has placed on her life. We pray that the Lord guide her, give her ideas that are needed to help it flourish and be a blessing to the members here and maybe even other churches and congregations.”

Hugh Davis

Hugh Davis is director of Community Connections ministry at Piedmont Park Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Hutchinson Church Embraces Wellness, Hosts Plant-based Cooking Class

pumpkin curry, vegetarian fajitas, vegan brownies and several others.

In a world where health and wellness are becoming increasingly important, communities are seeking ways to promote a holistic approach to well-being. The Hutchinson Church has taken a proactive step toward this goal by hosting a plant-based cooking class. By introducing individuals to the benefits of plant-based eating, the church aims to empower attendees to make positive lifestyle changes that contribute to their overall health and vitality.

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of plantbased diets. More and more

people are recognizing the health benefits associated with reducing or eliminating animal products from their meals. Plant-based diets have been linked to lower rates of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes. However, many people perceive plant-based diets as being tasteless and difficult to prepare. This class aimed to change these perceptions. Recognizing the importance of promoting healthier eating habits within their congregation and the wider community, the Hutchinson Church organized a plantbased cooking class in March and advertised in the church

and community. This event served as an opportunity for individuals to learn about plant-based nutrition, explore new recipes and develop essential cooking skills.

Four church members led the cooking class and shared their knowledge and expertise (and recipes!) by creating delicious and nutritious plant-based meals. The event aimed to engage the community and other church members, regardless of dietary preferences, by showcasing the versatility and flavors that can be achieved through plant-based cooking.  Recipes showcased included quinoa tabbouleh,

In addition to nutritional education, participants had the opportunity to enhance their culinary skills. The recipes presented and demonstrated offered a variety of flavors and ideas. Attendees left the event with full stomachs and equipped with practical knowledge and resources to continue incorporating plant-based meals into their daily lives.

The Hutchinson Church’s plant-based cooking class represents a significant step toward promoting health and wellness within the community. By providing individuals with the knowledge and tools to embrace plant-based eating, the church is empowering them to make positive changes that can lead to longterm health benefits. This initiative not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens community connections through shared experiences and a common focus on a healthier future.

Amy Bacon is a member of the Hutchinson Church in Minnesota.

Kara Aguilar arranges an amazing variety of food for the group to taste.

Jody Bertness shares her knowledge about vegan cooking.

Photos Courtesy Kara Aguilar

Conference Celebrates Joy-filled Gathering During Camp Meeting

The much-anticipated Minnesota Conference camp meeting, themed “Incorruptible,” brought together members from near and far to Maplewood Academy for a week of inspiring programs, engaging activities and heartfelt fellowship on June 6-10. After a year of challenges and prayer, this year’s event exceeded expectations as attendance soared, rekindling hope and unity.

Last year’s camp meeting showcased the unwavering spirit of the Minnesota Conference, despite

lower-than-anticipated attendance. However, this year prayers were answered as interest and participation surged, with attendance returning to pre-pandemic numbers.

The event kicked off with the dynamic presence of President Jeff Scoggins setting the stage for an extraordinary week ahead. Attendees were captivated by plenary sessions led by Pastor Shawn Boonstra, and children enjoyed a range of age-appropriate activities, including crafts, swimming and community service projects.

The highlight of the camp meeting arrived on Saturday, June 10, when approximately 1,500 people gathered for a day of worship and fellowship. As attendees congregated for the muchanticipated potluck lunch, the campus came alive with laughter and conversation. People sat around picnic tables, on blankets and under the shade of trees, sharing meals and reconnecting with fellow believers. It was a heartwarming scene that reflected the long-awaited return to a sense of togetherness and community.

The day continued with a special concert by Laura

Williams, filling the air with melodious tunes that resonated with attendees’ spirits. The event culminated in a memorable dedicatory service for Scoggins, where Gary Thurber, president of the Mid-America Union, offered a heartfelt prayer of dedication.

The success of the 2023 camp meeting went beyond increased attendance, reaffirming the unwavering faith, unity and rejoicing of the Minnesota Conference community after the challenges of the past year. Comments from attendees showed event organizers that participants were leaving with renewed spirits, strengthened connections and a shared commitment to faith and community.

Savannah Carlson is communication director for the Minnesota Conference.

(left) People attend the 2023 camp meeting from all over the Minnesota Conference.

(middle) Kids enjoy the many different activities in primary class.

(right) Shawn Boonstra speaks to a full auditorium on Friday and Sabbath.

Photos Courtesy Minnesota Conference

Elder Gary Thurber (right) prays over new conference president Jeff Scoggins.

Pathfinders Join Community at Gillette

Fourth of July Parade

The Rocky Mountain Conference was well represented at the Fourth of July celebrations in Gillette, Wyoming, with over 65 Pathfinders from seven different clubs marching in the day’s parade. The Pathfinders presence in the parade is part of community involvement and to gain awareness for 2024’s International

Camporee in Gillette.

Tyrone Douglas, director of Church Ministries and youth director at MidAmerica Union, remarked, “It was truly a blessing to participate with the Rocky Mountain Pathfinders as we followed in the footsteps of Jesus and mingled with the residents of Gillette, Wyoming, for their July

Fourth parade. I am looking forward to the International Camporee in 2024.”

Alex Rodriguez, associate director of Voice of Prophecy from Loveland, Colorado, commented, “It was a delight for our Pathfinders to join the Gillette, Wyoming, Fourth of July parade. A gentleman asked about our uniforms, and he smiled and said he’d been reading all about [Pathfinders] and the Adventists.”

Rodriguez continued, “At the parade, I was shocked at the attendance. Both sides of the street were packed with people cheering and clapping for our Pathfinder clubs. It’s a blessing to run a club and to participate in weekly activities and campouts. But for me, this Gillette experience captured the essence of what Pathfindering can be—not

just an internal ministry, but a way to make positive inroads into our communities demonstrating the beauty of what the Seventh-day Adventist Church is and can provide for families worldwide.”

The day did not come without its challenges, as there was rainy weather. But Jenny Hansen, a parent and club staff member of the Golden Adventist Church Pathfinders, said, “It was a great experience! I am so glad my family went. You wouldn’t believe how many town people came out in the rain to see the parade. We even got to mingle with some of them and let them know who the Pathfinders are—and that we serve the Living God.”

RMCNews with Eli Gonzales, RMC club ministries associate executive coordinator

Four Cousins Baptized on Same Day in Boulder Church

The Boulder Adventist Church congregation recently joined Graham Stafford, Ellie and Anderson King, and Harper Drane’s families and friends to celebrate their commitment to Jesus and witness their spiritual birthdays.

Graham is the son of Jared and Dani Stafford; Ellie and Anderson are the children of Elia and Dena King; and Harper is the daughter of Dalton and Melissa Drane Siblings Dena, Dani and Dalton and their families all live close enough to see each other often, being members

of the Boulder Adventist Church. Dalton passed away in 2021.

Dena King commented, “It was a wonderful day having

two of my children as well as nephew and niece baptized together.”

J. Murdock, former associate pastor at Boulder Church

Stafford, Ellie and Anderson King and Harper Drane celebrate their spiritual birthdays together at Boulder Adventist Church.

and currently a chaplain in California, came to Boulder to baptize Ellie, Anderson and Graham. Another former associate Boulder pastor, Jessyka Dooley, was invited to baptize Harper.

Church.

Debbi Lake is office manager and communication director for the Boulder

Eli Gonzales, RMC club ministries associate executive coordinator, Vicki Kahler, and her son proudly display the club banner for the Fourth of July parade in Gillette, Wyoming.

Cousins Graham

Photos Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

Youth Rush Ministry Deepens Reliance on God

This year’s Youth Rush Literature Ministry in the Rocky Mountain Conference started off strong with 19 students deciding to dedicate their lives this summer working in the literature evangelism program.

Youth Rush not only consists of a summer based on faith and powerful doorto-door experiences, but of powerful life changing testimonies that have helped not only our students but also our leaders to realize that God is working.

Vanessa, 15, from Quemado, New Mexico, recently had a first door experience. After fervently praying for a first door experience, Vanessa’s prayer was answered in a very interesting manner.

Vanessa shared that one afternoon after lunch, “My leader had dropped me off at our new territory. I approached my very first door that evening and started to pray as I rang the doorbell. I started telling the man who answered about the books. I had thought to myself that he wouldn’t be interested and that he would just reject the books.

“But he proceeded to tell me that he would be interested but he didn’t know if his wife was going to be interested, too. ‘Honey, are you interested in cookbooks or books to help you go to school?’ His wife responded, ‘Tell her we are not interested, and we have no time for her.’

“Then he tells me, ‘Well you heard my wife,’ but then asked me where I was from. ‘I am from Quemado, New Mexico,’ I answered. He was surprised and said that he was also from there and had family still living there. After hearing this, his wife came dashing to the door with a checkbook in her hand and said she couldn’t believe that I was from Quemado. After looking at various books, the couple decided to donate not only for The Great Controversy, but also donated more.”

Vanessa’s experience showed us that when we really believe with our hearts, God will hear us and answer our prayers.

Mallory, 17, comes from California. She shared an experience with a lady that helped her realize that God puts us at peoples’ doors for a reason.

“I was being dropped off at a new location, and I started making my way to the second house on the street. A lady opened the door, and I gladly started to share with her what I was doing. I showed her Simply Fresh and

flipped through the pages. She looked at me and was like, ‘Oh now I’ve got to get it because you showed me my favorite foods.’ I also showed her our devotional set which includes Peace Above the Storm and Lessons of Love

“She was really interested in the set and asked me if I was a Christian. I told her, ‘I’m a Seventh-day Adventist.’

“We talked a little longer and I mentioned how I had just finished high school and was going to start college in the fall to become a nurse. She smiled and said, ‘That is amazing! Now when you become a nurse, who will you be healing for?’

“I looked at her, puzzled by the question. I then responded by saying ‘I’m sorry, what?’ She then said, ‘Will you be healing for the Lord?’

“I smiled and said, ‘Yes I’d be healing for the Lord.’ She jumped in excitement and

went into the house for $100 for my school. She was super excited and happy I came to her door. She gave me a hug and told me to keep working for the Lord and to not give up on becoming a nurse because I’ll be able to serve the Lord through it.”

From a leaders’ perspective, literature ministry is just as important to a leader as it is to a student. Nicholas Lesch, a leader from Redlands, California, is on his eighth Youth Rush summer. Working in this ministry has helped him not only share the gospel and change his life but change many other people’s lives as well.

Sarah Hernandez is the communication assistant for the Rocky Mountain Conference literature ministries.

The Jahn family (center, front) from Campion Adventist Church purchased Chipotle for the whole team.

A student goes doorto-door in this year’s Youth Rush Literature Ministry in the Rocky Mountain Conference.

Photos Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

Union Launches 17 Professional Workforce Development Certificates

nion College has launched a Professional Workforce Development program that gives people the opportunity to advance their career and earn certificates in a variety of healthcare and IT jobs.

“We are excited to offer this new opportunity for workers who want to succeed in their career goals,” said Vinita Sauder, president of Union College. “These online certificate programs provide an easy and affordable way to get valuable credentials for high-demand jobs or professional growth that positions employees for advancement within their organizations.”

The new Professional Workforce Development program meets the needs of

today’s workforce by providing non-credit certificates that are ideal for individuals or organizations looking to train their employees in the following areas:

Information technology

• Healthcare IT Technician: 24 weeks

• Data Science: 33 weeks

• Cyber Security: 33 weeks

• Software Developer: 33 weeks

Healthcare

• Pharmacy Technician: 25 weeks

• Medical Assistant: 28 weeks

• Behavior Technician Specialist: 12 weeks

• Behavior Technician and Medical Office: 18 weeks

• Sterile Processing

Technician: 14 weeks

• Phlebotomy Technician: 12 weeks

• Healthcare Administration: 25 weeks

• Health Unit Coordinator: 18 weeks

• EKG Technician: 12 weeks

• Physical Therapy Aid: 18 weeks

• Patient Care Technician: 24 weeks

• Dental Assistant: 14 weeks

Professional development

• Project Management: 9 weeks

These online courses offer significant flexibility, making Union’s program a good option for someone who is already working full-time and looking for additional

professional development or certification.

Union also partners with organizations looking to build their greatest asset— their workforce. “We believe that today’s workers want to grow and build their skills,” said Sauder. “When employers offer education to their employees, it demonstrates how much they value their people. Education also helps companies retain employees and equip them to be more productive.”

Professional Workforce Development courses are developed and taught by industry experts and prepare employees for industry-recognized certifications. Union offers volume discounts for organizations that want to offer training to employees.

Learn more by visiting workforce. ucollege.edu.

Union College now offers a variety of workforce development certificates for healthcare, IT and business. Learn more at workforce. ucollege.edu.

Photos Courtesy Union College

Union College President Announces Plans to Retire

business leaders, educators and healthcare practitioners in nursing, occupational therapy, global emergency response and physician assistant studies.

Gary Thurber, chair of the Union College Board of Trustees, said, “During the years that Vinita Sauder has served as president, she has provided innovation as well as stability and focus. Her leadership has been outstanding, and she has led courageously through challenging times.”

• AdventHealth Innovation Classroom and three endowed chairs—Thanks to gifts from AdventHealth, Union renovated a business classroom into a modern collaborative space with cutting-edge learning technology and added two funded and endowed chairs in Business and one in Nursing.

• Rebrand—Union created a new visual identity and refreshed the school brand in 2021.

• Strategic planning— Union implemented a robust strategic planning process that has helped the campus accomplish many major goals.

Vinita Sauder , president of Union College, announced her retirement effective May 31, 2024, in a letter to the board and to the campus on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

“I am excited to begin a new phase of my life after 40 years in higher education,” said Sauder. “It’s been a joy to be part of the transformational difference that education makes in students’ lives. I’ve enjoyed working with an incredible team of board members, faculty and staff. Now it’s time to finish writing the screenplay I started years ago, spend more time with my five grandchildren and do some traveling with my husband.”

As 29th president and the first female president, Sauder has led the private educational institution since July 2014. Operated by the Mid-America Union of Seventh-day Adventists, the college opened its doors in 1891 and is a comprehensive Christian college in Lincoln, Nebraska, offering master’s degrees, undergraduate degrees and workforce development certificates. Specialties include training

Thurber will implement the search process to replace Sauder. The Board of Trustees will choose a search committee, chaired by Thurber, and made up of board members as well as representatives from the faculty, staff and alumni.

Under Sauder’s presidency, she and her leadership team have built on unique opportunities and executed on strategic initiatives which strengthened the college. Here are a few:

Facilities

• New entrance—A brick entranceway to the campus was built in 2016 at 48th Street and Prescott Street to bring visibility to the campus.

• Renovated learning— Classrooms and learning areas were upgraded and modernized in Engel Hall, the Nursing Simulation Center and the Everett Dick building, including the amphitheater classroom.

• Upgraded living—87 residence hall rooms were renovated along with the lobby spaces of two residence halls.

• Wellness Center—The AdventHealth Complex and Reiner Wellness Center was conceived, designed and built to provide additional recreation facilities for Union students.

New programs

• Occupational Therapy Assistant Program—This associate degree prepares students for a high-demand, high-pay job in just two years.

• Master’s degrees—Union launched two additional master’s degrees in leadership and public health in 2023, with plans to launch another in occupational therapy in 2024.

• Workplace development certificates—Union partnered with Core Education to launch 17 non-credit workforce certificates.

• Student Success—A $2.1 million grant launched Union’s focus on providing additional resources for students, including a life coach for every freshman.

Administration

• Fundraising records— Union raised $54 million over the decade of Sauder’s presidency, almost double the amount raised in previous decades.

• Streamlining—Union restructured and streamlined the budget, moving from nine academic divisions to three schools.

Sauder maintained an open-door policy for students, employees and parents. She held Tables for 12, Teas for 10 and Christmas open houses. She and her husband Greg often entertained students and even prospective students and parents at their home.

Sauder holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Andrews University in Michigan and an MBA from the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. She serves on multiple boards including Christian Record Services for the Blind, AdventHealth, the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, the Kansas-Nebraska Conference, the MidAmerica Union Conference, the Council for Independent Colleges Foundation and the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities. She is the past presidential sponsor for the Nebraska Women in Higher Education Leadership.

Sauder and her husband Greg have two married sons and five grandchildren.

Ryan Teller is executive director of Integrated Marketing Communications for Union College.

Amick, Monty Ray, b. July 9, 1968 in Emporia, KS. d. May 17, 2022 in Lawrence, KS. Member of Lawrence Church. Survivors include wife Megan; father David; mother Donna Sheldon; children Morgan and Kathryn Jacobson; 1 sister; 1 brother.

Bodnar, Louis G., b. Jan. 13, 1929 in Chicago, IL. d. June 3, 2023 in Bellevue, NE. Member of Golden Hills (NE) Church. Preceded in death by wife Bonnie. Survivors include daughter Jeanne; son Alan; 1 sister; 2 grandchildren.

Brisendine, Omer L., b. Oct. 1, 1925. d. Sept. 1, 2022 in Jefferson City, MO. Member of Jefferson City Church. Preceded in death by son Roger Wayne; 2 sisters; 3 brothers. Survivors include wife Inez; sons Jack and Charles; daughter Susan; step-children Steve and Dana; 1 sister; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Bruntz, Helen Lydia, b. March 16, 1927 in Peckham, CO. d. May 19, 2023 in Keene, TX. Member of Greeley (CO) Church. Preceded in death by husband, Ed; son Roland. Survivors include daughters Sally Tochterman, Loretta Baker, and Debra van den Hoven; son Edward; 14 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Clark, Lucy, b. May 7, 1934 in Tingley, IA. d. Aug. 16, 2021 in West Des Moines, IA. Preceded in death by son Kenneth; 4 sisters; 4 brothers. Survivors include daughter Patti; 1 brother; 5 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.

Creelman, Paula , b. Sept. 20, 1936. d. Feb. 29, 2020. Member of Doniphan (MO) Church. Preceded in death by husband Marvin; son Craig; 1 sister; 1 brother. Survivors include daughter LeAnn; sons Mike, Carey,

and Tony; 1 sister; 1 brother; 3 grandchildren.

Curtis, Dr. Alden Leroy, b. May 9, 1940 in Loveland, CO. d. July 5, 2023 in Worland, WY. Member of Worland Church. Preceded in death by first wife Janice. Survivors include wife Kay; children Shelley and Barry; 1 brother; 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.

De Herrera, Mayo, b. April 29, 1932 in Saguache, CO. d. May 10, 2023. Member of Salina (KS) Church. Survivors include daughters Darlene Pena, Lillian De Herrera, and Vivian Jones; sons Roger, Dan, and Vernon; 3 sisters; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren.

Glass, Darrell, b. Jan. 27, 1925 in Red Lake Falls, MN. d. Jan. 5, 2023 in Red Lake Falls, MN. Member of Thief River Falls (MN) Church. Survivors include wife Evelyn; daughters Peggy and Judy; son Rodney; 2 grandchildren; 3 great-grandsons.

Harner, Coleen (Bieber), b. Feb. 13, 1941 in Faulkton, SD. d. June 17, 2023 in Bowdle, SD. Member of Bowdle Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister. Survivors include husband Fred; daughters Angie Hoffmann and Susan Dewey; son Mark; 4 grandchildren.

Helt, Edward J., b. July 29, 1931 in Glover, MO. d. Feb. 7, 2022. Member of Doniphan (MO) Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister; 3 brothers; 2 grandchildren. Survivors include wife Donna; daughter Bonnie; son Thomas; 1 brother.

Hoffman, Trudy (Adams), b. Sept. 18, 1952 in Kansas City, MO. d. March 26, 2023 in Kansas City, MO. Member of New Haven (KS) Church. Survivors include husband Brad; daughter Carissa Wilson; sons Kyle and Collin; 5 grandchildren.

Holdren, Eva Wauneta (Harmon), b. Nov. 10, 1924 in Manter, KS. d. May 17, 2023 in Faulkton, SD. Member of Dakota Conference Church. Preceded in death by husband Jack; infant daughter Marilyn Jean; son Bill; 2 sisters; 6 brothers. Survivors include daughter Eva Melius-Meyer; sons Cecil, Jay Dee, and Roy; 20 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Hopkins, Margaret L., b. Nov. 19, 1958 in Fairfield, CA. d. March 30, 2023 in Harrisburg, NE. Member of Scottsbluff (NE) Church. Preceded in death by husband Larry James; twin granddaughters. Survivors include daughters Teresa Jepsen and Sheryl Garnick; son Michael Grant; stepson Larry, Jr.; 1 sister; 1 brother; 7 grandchildren.

Jensen, Lindell, b. Feb. 23, 1965 in South Dakota. d. June 30, 2023 in Yankton, SD. Member of Hurley (SD) Church. Survivors include wife Andrea; mother Elsie; daughter Sydney; son Austin; 6 siblings; 2 grandchildren.

Joslin, Fe Esperanza, b. July 10, 1952 in Pasay City, Philippines. d. July 4, 2023 in Wichita, KS. Member of Wichita South Church. Preceded in death by father Filemon Ngitngit. Survivors include mother Susana Ngitngit; son Adam; 1 grandson; 3 sisters; 2 brothers.

Kaesser, Bruce W., b. Jan. 5, 1959 in Independence, IA. d. June 21, 2023 in Marshall, IA. Member of Waterloo (IA) Church. Survivors include father Merle; brother Rodney.

Kaldahl, Larry D., b. May 17, 1960 in Minneapolis, MN. d. June 17, 2023 in Amboy, MN. Member of Blessed Hope (MN) Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister; 1 brother. Survivors include daughters

Melanie and Rebecca; sons Derek and Brandon; 1 sister; 1 brother.

Keightley, Oleta K., b. March 22, 1934 in Arnett, OK. d. June 1, 2023 in El Dorado Springs, MO. Member of Nevada (MO) Church. Preceded in death by spouse Elvan; 1 daughter; 1 grandson; 1 great-grandson. Survivors include daughter Kathrine O’Daniel; sons Daniel, Douglas, Samuel, James and Jason; 1 brother; 21 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandson.

Kuhn, Klaus H., b. Sept. 24, 1945 in Weissenburg, Germany. d. May 20, 2023 in Princeton, MO. Preceded in death by son Karl. Survivors include wife Connie.

Lindner, James “Jim” D., b. April 25, 1934 in Waverly, IA. d. Sept. 9, 2022 in Waverly, IA. Member of Waterloo (IA) Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister; 1 brother. Survivors include wife Kay; children Debbie, Nikki, Jean, Jon, and Laurie; 1 sister; 14 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren. Served in the U.S. Army.

Maldonado, Maria Leticia (Lety), b. July 25, 1963. d. April 28, 2023. Member of Wichita West Hispanic (KS) Church. Survivors include husband Jose; father Jose Antonio Vital-Fraire; sons Manuel and Gerson; 7 sisters; 1 brother.

Oldland, Frank Edward, b. April 2, 1936 in Meeker, CO. d. April 8, 2023 in Grand Junction, CO. Member of Palisade (CO) Church. Survivors include wife Peggy; children Mark, Heather, Susan, Stephen, Stuart, Jeff, and Lisa; 1 sister; 1 brother; 19 grandchildren.

Olds, Carol M., b. April 27, 1940 in Springfield, MO. d. May 15, 2023 in Miami, FL. Member of Springfield Church. Preceded in death by

husband David. Survivors include 3 daughters; 3 siblings; 3 granddaughters.

Ray, Alice Jean, b. July 29, 1934 in Cronton, IA. d. May 12, 2023 in Cheyenne, WY. Member of Cheyenne Church. Preceded in death by ex-husband Frank; 4 sisters; 4 brothers. Survivors include daughters Lana Anderson and Tammie; 3 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren.

Russell, Ronald K., b. Sept. 23, 1936 in Minatare, NE. d. March 18, 2023 in Lincoln, NE. Member of College View (NE) Church. Preceded in death by wife Joy. Survivors include daughters Anita Busby and Alane Britt; son Gary; 6 grandchildren. Worked in the Adventist education system for 46 years.

September 2023

Sharp, John, b. Sept. 20, 1933 in Beemer, NE. d. May 30, 2023 in St. Johns, AZ. Member of Norfolk (NE) Church. Preceded in death by wife Muriel. Survivors include daughters Janet and Jeanine; 3 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren.

Steffenson, Lavone (Dimond), b. May 6, 1953 in Baldwin, ND. d. June 19, 2023 in Bismarck, ND. Member of the Mandan (ND) Church. Preceded in death by husband Richard; son Marius. Survivors include daughter Danielle Kraft; son David; 1 brother; 4 grandchildren.

Wangsnes, Harold, b. Sept. 11, 1931 in Starbuck, MN. d. May 31, 2023 in Rapid City, SD. Member of Rapid City Church. Survivors include daughters Cindy, Linda, and

Sue; 1 sister; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter.

Wangsnes, Marvin, b. June 2, 1930 in Starbuck, MN. d. May 21, 2023 in Thief River Falls, MN. Member of Thief River Falls Church. Preceded in death by wife Patricia; Survivors include sons Kevin, Kraig, and Kurt; 1 sister; 3 grandsons.

Warden, James, b. Jan. 26, 1935 in Bond, MS. d. May 21, 2023 in Aberdeen, SD. Member of Aberdeen Church. Preceded in death by 1 grandson; 2 great-grandsons. Survivors include wife DeLora (Henderson); daughters Susan McCarty, Connie Iverson, and Sandra Webster; son Ronald; 2 sisters; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren. Served in the U.S. Air Force 1955-1959.

Wasli, Bonnie (Cook), b. Dec. 7, 1960 in Portland, OR. d. May 30, 2023 in Denver, CO. Preceded in death by mother Lou Ann Cook; 1 brother. Survivors include husband Kevin; daughter Kait Wasli; father Bob Cook; 1 sister.

Zeller, Vernon, b. Dec. 15, 1932 in Sedalia community. d. May 23, 2023 in Manhattan, KS. Member of Manhattan Church. Preceded in death by daughter Verona Schuermann; 3 sisters. Survivors include wife Ramona; daughters Virginia White and Becky Siders; son Philip; 1 sister; 2 brothers; 12 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; 1 greatgreat-grandchild. Veteran of the U.S. Army.

SERVICES

Facing a challenge? Have a concern? At LifeTalk Radio we believe in prayer and want to pray for you. Whatever your problem, God is bigger. Share your prayer needs at LifeTalk.net/prayer. Live with hope! Listen at LifeTalk. net/prayer

Move with an awardwinning agency. Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Call us for all your relocation needs! Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Contact Marcy Danté at 800.766.1902 for a free estimate. Visit us at www. apexmoving.com/Adventist

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.

FOR SALE

Shop for new/used

Adventist books: TEACH SERVICES offers used Adventist books at www. LNFBOOKS.com or new book releases at your local ABC or www.TEACHServices.com. AUTHORS, let us help publish your book with editing, design, marketing and worldwide distribution. Call 800.367.1844 for a free evaluation.

EMPLOYMENT

Dakota Conference seeks full-time Associate Treasurer/Accountant: Primary responsibilities include A/R, A/P and payroll with accounting functions in AASI. BS degree in finance or accounting preferred, person must be self-motivated. Job features full benefits package and salary per the NAD scale with a Monday-Thursday work week in Bismarck, North Dakota. Please send resume and references to Mark Seibold at vp.finance@ dakotasda.org.

Pacific Union College is seeking faculty positions for the 2023-2024 academic year in the areas of History and Music. Major duties include the responsibilities of assessment, planning, development and implementation of classroom experiences and course objectives. We desire those who possess dedication in furthering the goals of excellence in student success and critical thinking skills. If you are interested, please contact Human Resources at HR@puc.edu or call 707.965.6231.

The Union College Communication Program is searching for applicants for a Communication Professor. This is a full-time, faculty, exempt position. Please see the full job description and instructions for application at ucollege.edu/employment and contact Bruce Forbes at bruce.forbes@ucollege.edu for more information. Benefit package includes tuition subsidy for eligible dependents and other generous benefits.

Union College is searching for a Payroll Accountant. This position will oversee and supervise the payroll functions of the organization, ensuring pay is processed

on time, accurately and in compliance with government regulations. See the full job description and instructions for application at ucollege. edu/employment.

Union College is seeking applicants for two positions: Electrician and General Maintenance. Both are fulltime, non-exempt positions with generous benefits package and healthcare. Please see full job descriptions and instructions for application at ucollege.edu/employment. Direct inquiries to Paul Jenks at paul.jenks@ucollege.edu.

Union College seeks applicants for a boiler plant operator. This is a full-time position. This role is responsible for the operation and repair of HV/AC systems, transmission lines and associated controls. See full job descriptions and instructions for application at ucollege. edu/employment or contact Paul Jenks at paul.jenks@ ucollege.edu.

EVENTS

The Branson East Adventist Church in Kirbyville, Missouri, invites you to worship with us in our Sabbath services and potluck lunch. We have exciting news to share with all who respond to this invitation. Please respond as RSVP as we look forward to your presence. Contact Winfield Scott at 417.546.7986 “Feliz Sabbado”/”Happy Sabbath.”

Oak Park Academy Alumni Weekend Sept. 29-30, 2023. All alumni, former faculty and staff are invited to attend this special reunion weekend. The 2023 Honor Classes are: 1943, 1948, 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978. Location: Gates Hall, 825 15th St., Nevada, IA. For more information:

Allayne Petersen Martsching, 402.312.7368 or email: allaynemartsching@gmail.com. Afternoon service: 2 pm.

Sunnydale Adventist Academy Alumni Weekend

Oct. 6-7, 2023. All alumni, former faculty and staff are invited to attend “Let’s Gather Together” Alumni Weekend. Honor classes are 1948, 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2013. Sunnydale Adventist Academy, 6818 Audrain Rd. 9139, Centralia, MO 65240 For more information, please contact alumni@sunnydale.org or 573.682.2164 x200.

It’s raining scholarships

Are you having a dry spell when it comes to money for college? Union can help.

Nobody brings together more resources to help you afford a quality Christian education than Union College. We have both merit and need-based scholarships. And we just introduced ScholarshipUniverse software to help you connect with local and national scholarships that amount to billions of dollars.

Call us and find out how much college money is waiting to rain down on you.

“I really wanted an Adventist education, but I didn’t think it was possible with my empty pockets. Student Financial Services went to work for me and found four scholarships and two grants. I completed my first year at Union and it’s been great.”

— Breanna Hawk