Pacific Union Recorder—June 2023

Recorder

The things of nature upon

but a faint conception of Eden’s beauty and glory. Yet much that is beautiful remains. Nature testifies that One infinite in power, great in goodness, mercy, and love, created the earth and filled it with life and gladness. Even in their blighted state all things reveal the handiwork of the great Master Artist. Though sin has marred the form and beauty of the things of nature, though on them may be seen traces of the work of the prince of the power of the air, yet they still speak of God. In the briers, the thistles, the thorns, the tares, we may read the law of condemnation; but from the beauty of natural things, and from their wonderful adaptation to our needs and our happiness, we may learn that God still loves us, that His mercy is yet manifested to the world.

—Ellen G. White, Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 256

Recorder

4 “Drawing From a Fountain Ever Fresh”

8 Learning to Trust God Through the Storms of Life

The Recorder is a monthly publication reaching approximately 76,000 Seventh-day Adventist homes in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah. Our mission is to inform, educate, and inspire our readers to action in all areas of ministry.

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which we look today give us

Regs: The Pacific Union Recorder (ISSN 0744-6381), Volume 123, Number 6, is the official journal of the Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and is published monthly. Editorial office is at 2686 Townsgate Rd., Westlake Village, CA 91361: 805-497-9457. Periodical postage paid at Thousand Oaks, CA, and additional mailing offices. Subscription rate: No charge to Pacific Union Adventist church members; $16 per year in U.S.; $20 foreign (U.S. funds); single copy, $2. POSTMASTER : Send address changes to: Circulation Department, Pacific Union Recorder, Box 5005, Westlake Village, CA 91359. Info@adventistfaith.com.

“Drawing From a Fountain Ever Fresh”

By Sandra Roberts

Irecently flew over much of the state of California and was awed by the bright green hills and the snow lingering in the mountains this late in the year. Throughout our union territory, it has been a spring of extravagantly bright flowers, lush landscapes, and late blossoming trees as the rains just kept coming. Such vibrant beauty!

Mere months ago, we were in a severe drought all over the Pacific Union, resulting in water rationing, dead lawns, and extreme fire danger. What a difference the rains and snow have made, with reservoirs filling up and some of us wondering when the rain would finally stop and the sun emerge.

We had been living in a parched and weary land for so long we had given up hope of seeing it come to life again.

I am reminded of the prophet Ezekiel as I look at this new life springing up in what was once a cracked, brown, and dead landscape. Do you remember his description of the valley of dead, dry, and parched bones in Ezekiel 37? It is a jarring image of lifelessness. After showing this scene to

Ezekiel in a vision, God asks him if these bones can live. God tells Ezekiel that these bones represent His people of Israel and says, “Listen to what they’re saying: ‘Our bones are dried up, our hope is gone, there’s nothing left of us’” (Ezekiel 37:11, The Message).

Living in exile, God’s people were weary and spent. They were not allowing God to refresh, revive, and renew them through His Spirit. Instead, they were discouraged, disillusioned, and downcast. God used Ezekiel as one of His final prophetic voices, pleading with the people to come back to Him and receive lifegiving breath.

We had been living in a parched and weary land for so long we had given up hope of seeing it come to life again.

God was not giving up! As Ezekiel walked among the bones in his vision, God asked Ezekiel if the bones could live, to which Ezekiel replied, “Only you know, God” (verse 3).

God commanded Ezekiel to prophesy. He records that, as he was prophesying, “there was a noise, and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone. Indeed, as I looked, the sinews and the flesh came upon them, and the skin covered them over; but there was no breath in them” (Ezekiel 37:7-8, NKJV).

God commanded Ezekiel to speak again; this time he was to prophesy to the breath. As he did so, “breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army” (Ezekiel 37:10, NKJV).

God reminds His people through these graphic images that He will breathe the freshness of His Spirit into them so they may live and know that He is their God, always and forever.

Ellen White assures us, “Our life is to be bound up with the life of Christ; we are to draw constantly from Him, partaking of Him, the living Bread that came down from heaven, drawing

from a fountain ever fresh, ever giving forth its abundant treasures. If we keep the Lord ever before us, allowing our hearts to go out in thanksgiving and praise to Him, we shall have a continual freshness in our religious life” ( Christ’s Object Lessons , p. 129).

Is your soul a bit parched and weary? Are you on the run and weighed down with responsibilities and never-ending to-do lists that leave you longing for unhurried time and space with God? Do these words ring true with you, “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God” (Psalm 42:1, NIV)?

Look to the green hills. Look to the land that is refreshed around you. Press the pause button for a bit and allow the Spirit of God to breathe life into you.

After all, that is what God does. He is our Living Water, our Stream in the Desert, our Deep Well, our Giver of Life. Drink deeply, breathe in, and flourish today.

Sandra E. Roberts is the executive secretary and the ministerial director of the Pacific Union Conference.

He is our Living Water, our Stream in the Desert, our Deep Well, our Giver of Life.

Learning Trustto God

Through the Storms

of Life

By Santiago Hernández

Iwill never forget the day of April 27, 2011. It was a day when I experienced firsthand that God was looking out for me. My name is Santiago Hernández. I am majoring in religion with an emphasis in health sciences at Pacific Union College, where I also play soccer.

My family is originally from Mexico, and we live in Alabama. I graduated from Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Alabama, in 2019. During high school I played soccer and was HOSA-Future Health Professionals president. As a Seventh-day Adventist, I enjoy participating in church and helping out when I can.

On the afternoon of April 27, 2011, my brother and I were at home practicing soccer outdoors when we saw a black cloud appearing in the sky. Suddenly, I heard the tornado sirens going off, and we took shelter inside the house with my mom and siblings. There were many tornados happening in Alabama at that time.

Though our family remained safe and unharmed, there was a mess on our lawn after the storm. I noticed that many of the neighboring houses had physical damage, but there was no physical damage to our home. I had left some cones, a plastic chair, and other things on the front porch before the storm. After the storm, everything was gone but the plastic chair. That’s when I knew that God had protected us. From that day forward, I learned to trust God more and to rely on Him when I need to make important life decisions that will impact my future.

One of those important decisions was regarding where to go to college after graduating from high school. I recently came to the conclusion that God brought me to Pacific Union College for good reasons. Along with the great education I have been receiving, I have amazing friends, both with students and with my professors, my deans, and coaches.

I also realized that I came to PUC because I wanted to discover more about life and learn about different cultures—and PUC offers the diversity that enables me to do so.

I have made lots of memories being on the PUC soccer team. My position is goalkeeper, and I have had the privilege of playing alongside many great players. I remember our home game against Park University from Arizona; although it was mentally

stressful, I had a lot of fun playing—especially since it was the first win of our season. It was also my first official game as a college student, so that meant a lot to me. I also have made many great memories with my teammates during our travels for away games. We laughed a lot together, which makes the team feel like a family.

I chose a religion major with an emphasis on health professions because I believe that spiritual health is a key component in our lives. I also chose this major because I want to learn more about displaying spirituality while being a health professional. I am passionate about praying for people, offering a word of advice when needed, and just showing people that I’m there to support them. I also enjoy sharing encouraging Bible verses with others.

As of right now, after I graduate from PUC, I plan to attend Loma Linda University for either medical school, clinical laboratory sciences, or the chaplaincy program. If I go to medical school, I would like to become a general surgeon. Either way, my long-term goal is to work in a hospital setting where I can do what I am most passionate about: helping people get physically and spiritually healthy.

I would like to encourage other young people to pursue their dreams and to always stay in prayer. Don’t allow anyone to tell you can’t do something. If you are passionate about something, don’t allow anything to get in the way. Stay focused, stay calm, and work hard every day to achieve the desires of your heart. Believe in yourself but, most importantly, trust that God will guide you every step of the way.

Santiago Hernández writes from Angwin, California.

I would like to encourage other young people to pursue their dreams and to always stay in prayer.

Lord, please forgive my sins.

And do it quick, because I’m heading straight for hell until you do.

Iwould like to open up about a spiritual impulse that came into my soul many years ago regarding the miracle of God’s forgiveness. So often in our prayers, both private and corporate, we ask God to forgive us for our sins and shortcomings, and of course, that’s directly from 1 John 1:9. “Lord, please forgive me.” “Yes, my child. I do. You are forgiven.”

But here is what developed into a dilemma for me as a child and even as a young adult. I became convinced that each time I sinned, I entered into an unforgiven state—even a “lost”

By David B. Smith

state—until I had the opportunity to say that quick prayer of supplication. Every slip-up, every moment of temper, had me feeling the chill of heaven’s abandonment until I could repent and get back into God’s good graces. One dilemma was that I was such a frequent offender that the “I’m sorry” prayers became increasingly rote and despairing.

I think I was attending Pacific Union College before I encountered The Security of Salvation, a wonderful little book by the late Richard Nies. He suggested, with a host of biblical evidence, that when even a fragile believer enters into a saving Calvary relationship with Jesus Christ, that person is then in an abiding and constant state of forgiveness. He or she is forgiven before even the moment of asking. There is no on-again, off-again fragility to the grace relationship.

This doesn’t negate the importance of coming to God on our knees with tears of repentance. We do need to be mindful of our sins and their toxicity; we need to be aware that we are not fully respecting the sanctity of the relationship. But it is hurtful, Nies suggested, to think that God is up in heaven, waiting, delaying, withholding the blessing and relief of forgiveness until we have opportunity to come to Him.

To illustrate: I still remember as a kid way back in our Thailand missionary days, lying in bed and feeling some childish guilt over a little naughty thing. Do I go tell Mom and Dad? Do I confess this? Well, I can’t sleep until I do! Plus, am I kind of “lost” until I make a confession? So I would trundle over to the master bedroom, wake them

up, blurt out the little whatever, and Mom would say, “Oh, honey, of course we forgive you. Go back to sleep.” But the reality, of course, is that I was always forgiven and always still her son. That was never once in jeopardy. It was an error to think I was in outer darkness until I clumped up the stairs to their throne of mercy.

This wonderful perspective, of course, entirely eliminates the fearsome idea of “What if you sin and then are hit by a bus?” What if something happens before you get the chance to repent? Would an arbitrary God consign an unlucky Christian to lostness just due to unlucky timing? No.

So I try to imagine expressing a request for forgiveness under the generous perspective Dr. Nies opened up. Something like this, I guess: “Lord, you know how each of us has fallen. We’re fragile and we’re weak, and at such times what a comfort it is to know you still love us and that we are always and forever your children. Thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus, which lets us abide in the ocean of your forgiveness and grace. We know we’re forgiven even before we ask—but we still do ask because we want to have repentant hearts. We want to grow into your mature children, your ever-more-faithful ambassadors. Make us sensitive to sin and appreciative of holiness.”

But how wonderful to know that the light bulb of salvation always burns brightly with Calvary love. It never flickers or goes out.

What if something happens before you get the chance to repent? Would an arbitrary God consign an unlucky Christian to lostness just due to unlucky timing? No.

David B. Smith writes from Highland, California.

Blind Camp Coming to Cedar Falls

By Yara Enamorado

This July, for the first time since 2001, staff will welcome an anticipated 15 -20 blind campers to Camp Cedar Falls in Angelus Oaks, Calif., for an integrated junior/blind camp. Organized by Christian Record Services for the Blind, in partnership with the Southern California Conference, attendees will enjoy fellowship and activities such as archery, horseback riding, music classes, and nature hikes over six days.

Christian Record Services for the Blind was established in 1899 when Austin O. Wilson, a legally blind 20-year-old Seventh-day Adventist was concerned about the lack of Christian reading material available for the blind. He produced a one-page braille magazine entitled Christian Record. More than 100 years later, the Christian Record is still being published, along with

many other services!

National Camps for Blind Children (NCBC) is one of these services. As an outreach program of Christian Record Services, NCBC partners with participating camps and welcomes applicants aged 9 to 65 whose corrected vision is not better than 20/200. NCBC provides specialized camping opportunities to thousands of children and adults who are blind.

Cedar Falls is one of seven Adventist camps that will host a blind camp this summer. Pastor Salvador Garcia, SCC youth ministries director, with the help of Christian Record, is organizing the event.

“We are super excited to host blind camp for the first time in several years. The vision to have a blind camp began when we received a letter from

Christian Record Services for the Blind,” said Garcia. There is still a lot of planning underway for this exciting endeavor, the foremost being training staff. “For most staff, this will be the first time participating in a blind camp,” said Garcia. As of early May, the plan is to integrate blind campers with junior summer camp. If registration for blind camp grows, there may be a fully dedicated blind camp week.

Garcia is looking to those with experience in blind camp to help lead him in the right direction as well. Aside from the support of Christian Record Services, he’s receiving guidance from Byron West, prison ministries director for the Pacific Union, as well as

David and Elizabeth Yeagley from Sunset Lake Camp of the Washington Conference.

When Garcia was contacted by Christian Record Services, he was moved to enable the opportunity to provide those who may be blind with the same joyous summer camp experience as any person who can see. “Our goal is for each camper to connect with others, enjoy nature, experience new adventures, and ultimately leave inspired,” said Garcia.

“It is a delight to welcome Cedar Falls Camp to the roster for National Camps for Blind Children,” said Jeri Lyn Rogge, editorial and outreach ministries director at Christian Record Services. “Each year, our members ask, ‘Will we have a camp in California?’ It’s so exciting to be able to say, ‘Yes!’ Cedar Falls Camp, along with six additional partners in the United States, is eager to welcome those from the blind community to enjoy adventures in nature and

“Our goal is for each camper to connect with others, enjoy nature, experience new adventures, and ultimately leave inspired.”

PASTOR SALVADOR GARCIA, SCC YOUTH MINISTRIES DIRECTOR

opportunities to connect with individuals who, like themselves, live with blindness.”

It’s not surprising that the overall feeling is excitement and a positive outlook. NCBC has been around since 1967. It began at Camp Kulaqua in High Springs, Florida. Since then, over 50,000 campers have attended these specialty camps, and it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience.

“Camp is a reminder that I can really be independent, especially when I put God first,” said Della, attendee of the Camp Kulaqua blind camp in Florida. While Christian Record began as a service for the blind within the church, it’s evolved into an outreach, connecting with blind people across the nation and the world. Over 80 percent of Christian Record members (as well as camp attendees) are non-Adventist. Camps like these nurture both a human and spiritual connection. “It is wonderful to come to camp and open yourself to new experiences. I like learning more about the Bible and getting to meet other Christians,” said Anthony, an attendee of the Camp Kulaqua blind camp in Florida.

Moreover, NCBC empowers those who are blind. Through camp, attendees can discover their untapped potential and increase their self-confidence. “When I’m at camp, I don’t feel disabled,” said Kainen, an attendee of the Camp Kulaqua blind camp in Florida.

Former attendees generally have such an impacting experience, once they grow up and are ready to be staff or directors themselves, they

look to see how they can facilitate a blind camp in their area.

As the summer is right around the corner, Garcia is well underway interviewing and hiring staff, preparing for blind camp training, and working to provide activates that both blind and non-blind campers can enjoy. Every sign points to a fun-filled summer camp that will make a lasting impact on everyone. “We are filled with enthusiasm to have campers on our campground that will have fun, make new friends, and find love and acceptance to help them in their life journey,” Garcia said. “We can't wait to welcome and officially begin blind camp!”

Yara Enamorado, is an assistant in the communication and community engagement department of the Pacific Union Conference

Divorce by

When is it lawful, in the eyes of God, to divorce a spouse? Jesus uttered one major saying concerning that subject. His words were reported by three New Testament Gospel writers (Matthew 19:1-9, Mark 10:1-12, Luke 16:18) and were also interpreted by the Apostle Paul as he attempted to advise members of a fledging Christian church concerning that controversial topic (1 Corinthians 7:10-16).

So, what was His answer? What guidance did He offer?

Traditionally, the Christian Church has relied on the Gospel of Matthew to respond to that question. Christ’s counsel seems pretty straightforward.

Some Pharisees came to him, and to test him they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause?” He answered, “Have you not read that the one who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” They said to him, “Why then did Moses command us to give a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her?” He said to them, “It was because you were so hard-hearted that Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, whoever

By Carlos C. Camarena with Charles Mills

by the Book

divorces his wife, except for unchastity, and marries another commits adultery”

(Matthew 19:3-9, NRSV).

OK. Message received loud and clear. Sexual immorality is the key that unlocks the divorce door. Got it.

Or maybe not.

Many scholars contend that the Pharisees wouldn’t have posed such a question because they were fully aware of the Mosaic mandate of Deuteronomy 24:1-4. It states that if any man finds his wife “objectionable,” he writes her a certificate of divorce, puts it in her hand, and sends her away. If she marries another man who later finds her equally objectionable or dies, that woman cannot remarry her first husband because she was been “defiled.” So, their debate wasn’t based on whether divorce was possible, it was about the reasons why it should be granted.

Other scholars within the Catholic and fundamentalist Protestant tradition adhere to a more literal interpretation of Christ’s words, pointing to the fact that Jesus evoked God’s original Edenic ideal in which there was not to be any divorce whatsoever. He knew it was impossible to divide something that is “one” without doing irreparable damage, and God isn’t about doing damage. He’s about repairing and rebuilding what’s been broken by sin.

The standard

It’s not hard to comprehend why Matthew’s account, which includes the words “except for sexual immorality,” (Matthew 19:9, NKJV) has become the standard answer to our original question. It clearly provides the key to divorce. It offers a God-ordained way out of a bad marriage. Adultery throws the divorce door wide open.

But, then there’s Mark.

Although similar in context and wording to Matthew’s report, there’s one major difference. Mark’s account doesn’t include the words “except for sexual immorality” at all.

It’s important to remember that Matthew’s account was designed specifically for his intended Jewish readership because they made it a practice to divorce their wives “for any reason.” Perhaps the writer wanted to narrow that field down considerably.

On the other hand, Mark’s intended readership was Gentile/Roman, a society in which a woman could easily obtain a divorce. The writer’s purpose seems to be to add weight and solemnity to the institution of marriage and make divorce a much larger and consequential step than most considered it to be. More to the point, he was saying that it’s not supposed to happen.

Different translations

There’s another variable in the divorce equation. In Mark’s case, structural connectors in the language in which it was written transform the word “divorce” into “to expel,” “to send away,” “to dismiss.” That’s the word used by Christ in response to the Pharisees when they asked about what Moses permitted.

We also find it in the story of Joseph when he discovered that his young, soon-to-be wife Mary was with child. In that society and time, being “betrothed” was considered the same as being married. It seems that Joseph wasn’t considering divorce at all. With women being of a much lower station in life than men, husbands could simply remove their “wayward” wives from society and keep them tucked away out of sight and out of mind for as long as they felt it was necessary.

Speaking of the story of Joseph, notice the

He knew it was impossible to divide something that is “one” without doing irreparable damage, and God isn’t about doing damage. He’s about repairing and rebuilding what’s been broken by sin.

wording change in two popular English translations of the Bible that are found in most churches and Christian homes today:

“Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily” (Matthew 1:19, KJV).

“Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly” (Matthew 1:19, NIV).

Such inconsistencies can open a Pandora’s box that can flood minds, homes, and even church denominations with confusing error. Whenever we eclipse an ancient word with a modern one—especially when it shifts meaning to better fit contemporary sensibilities and traditions— inaccuracies can be introduced. Yes, it’s totally possible for truth itself to become lost in translation.

The structural, grammatical, and syntactical analyses of Mark’s version of Jesus’ conversation points to the probability that, on that fateful day, when the Pharisees put their question to Him, they weren’t speaking of “divorce.” They were asking about the common practice of desertion, abandonment, and, in the case of high-society Jewish women, serving husbands with a letter of divorce.

This had recently become a scandal among religious Jews in Northern Palestine in regard to the house of Herod, where both the monarch and his new wife had not followed proper procedures outlined by Moses when they abandoned their original mates. The Pharisees had attempted to implicate Jesus publicly for condemning the acts of their country’s Roman ruler—an action that could carry severe consequences. But He didn’t take the bait. Instead, He simply quoted Scripture. Not a bad idea under such circumstances.

in conjunction with Matthew’s. And, historically speaking, the Church has not looked at Mark in both its immediate and broad contexts when it comes to Christ’s teaching on the subject of divorce. In my opinion, we’ve been putting words in the Savior’s mouth—words that alter both the meaning and the much-needed guidance that they were originally designed to offer. I’m concerned that the Jesus of the Gospels has been repackaged, rebranded, and recreated time and time again to reflect modern denominational/theological leanings.

The Christian Church has also generally overlooked the fact that the reason there are four Gospels is because there were four different audiences, with four different needs, looking at the world from four different perspectives. Mark’s readers were able to understand his saying on “divorce” because they lived in the environment, heard the debates, saw the confrontations between Jesus and the Pharisees, and were affected by the actions in the royal palace.

If there’s any strength to this article, it’s that I have visited the context and the language in which the “divorce” teaching is couched and found its traditional interpretation wanting. Such attention to detail needs to be brought to a practical level as well: to where discipline is applied to those who find themselves in the grip of divorce.

Could it be that God never intended for marriages to fail? Could it be that divorce isn’t an option after two people have become “one” in the eyes of the Almighty? Could it be that God’s desire is to step into relationships that are falling apart for any reason and help the couple reconcile and rebuild what’s been lost? The historical evidence seems to point in that direction.

Historically speaking

I feel that it’s imperative to realize that the Christian Church has not looked at Mark’s account

There’s no greater intellectual vacuum than when a biblical interpreter casts aside all that a text meant in the past, plucks it out of its historical context, and immediately starts using it to construct a church’s standard for discipline, its manual, or its canon law for guiding its conversation on a subject as serious

and far-reaching as marriage and divorce.

The serious Bible student, on the other hand, recognizes that there can be a considerable distance between what the text meant for the original hearers and what it means today. Since the study of the Bible must be done in a dialogue between the past and the present, it’s necessary to understand the cultural values and social practices of long-ago times. If this isn’t done, meaning and original intent will surely be overlooked. Failing to appreciate this variance can easily end up creating theological monstrosities that hinder instead of help.

Curb our tendencies

Bottom line? We need to learn to curb our tendencies to project 21st-century views onto primitive and illiterate cultures of three or four millennia ago.

British ancient historian and academic Fegus Miller warns of the danger of “contaminating the past with the present.” Although his remark was directed toward the interpretation of history rather than Scripture, his point is well taken. There’s much to be said against the tendency to distort the biblical text with heavy-handed moralizing that’s undertaken from an assumed vantage point of contemporary, theological superiority.

So, how do we do it? How do we approach Scripture as we face the challenges in our own lives, including the very real possibility of divorce?

I’d like to suggest something that may or may not be included in many Christians’ arsenal to fight misunderstanding, misinterpretation, and misguidance. It’s the fact that God is still speaking. His words are still reverberating afresh in lives. But, unlike times past, those words may not be written down on scrolls of parchment, heard in temple courtyards or echoing from a synagogue. There’s no book to open, podcast to download, or conversation to join on Facebook.

Instead, there’s a still, small voice speaking

directly to us—a voice that only we can hear. This time, those words are being written in human hearts. And, if those hearts are honestly seeking for truth without traditional bias or pre-conceived agenda, if those hearts are open to the whispers of the Holy Spirit and are willing to follow wherever it leads, it’s here that the most updated, trustworthy, and truth-based guidance can be found on any and all subjects, including divorce.

God knows that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Never has. He knows that each situation, each challenge, each heartache is unique. He desires to shape His response to fit every individual’s longing. His love is both tailor-made and all encompassing. What a wonderful Savior!

So, whatever you’re facing—be it unfaithfulness, unfairness, broken promises, or the breakup of a family—God has a message for you. His still small voice is saying, “I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws” (Ezekiel 36:27, NIV). Here’s where we find God’s words for this time, this situation, this culture. There can be no confusion or mistranslation.

The Bible as a whole sets the stage beautifully, forming the solid foundation upon which you can build your life and make your decisions. But the house you place on that foundation is yours to construct. You add the windows and doors, the curtains, and the furnishings. You follow God’s leading, which is unique to you in whatever situation you’re facing.

Standing on the solid foundation of Scripture and surrounded by the knowledge and understanding constructed by that still small voice, you live your life with confidence and joy no matter what challenges come your way.

Carlos Camarena is a pastor in the Southeastern California Conference, Charles Mills is a freelance writer from West Virginia. This article is based on Elder Camarena's Ph.D. dissertation, “The Markan ‘Divorce’ Pericope: An Exegesis.” (https://bit.ly/3LFG4zv)

Educational Leadership Council Participates in Crisis Training Simulation

The Educational Leadership Council recently experienced an exciting and realistic training simulation at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California.

Ed Leadership is made up of the staff of the Pacific Union Office of Education, conference superintendents and associate superintendents, and representatives of academic leadership. Members meet three times each year to discuss issues facing Adventist education, to collaborate on initiatives that will benefit students, and to expand the leadership skills of school leaders.

The training simulation is designed to highlight communication, decision-making, critical thinking, and crisis management skills. The participants assumed roles of the White House crisis management team, members of the intelligence community, and the media—all facing multiple challenges in real time. This three-hour event blended the latest in technology with historic events and role-play to strengthen leadership skills.

The crisis: The President had been shot. Datha

Tickner, superintendent in Southeastern California Conference, was assigned the role of White House Chief of Staff. She rushed to the “hospital,” where she and the crisis management team faced a screen that kept them in communication with the “situation room,” where other colleagues were assuming their roles, which included Secretary of State, FBI, and Homeland Security. Each had an iPad that would feed information and decisions to be made, but they weren’t all getting the same information. In her role as the Chief of Staff, Tickner had to take control and keep the best interests of the President in mind. Way easier said than done!

Talk about chaos! “If that’s really how it is when the nation has a real crisis, I have a new appreciation for how fast those people have to make decisions with the little information given at the time,” said Donna Baerg Entze, associate superintendent from the Central California Conference, who was assigned the role of Assistant to the President.

Tickner said the group at the hospital worked well together, comparing the information they were given

and trying for consensus before pushing what they thought should happen to the people in the situation room. Communicating with the situation room was tricky, with everyone trying to speak at once and push their own opinions and agenda based on the information they were being fed on their iPads.

Meanwhile, in the situation room, Fernando Lista, superintendent of the Nevada-Utah Conference, played the role of Attorney General. He noticed that everything contributed to bring realism to this experience, from the room setting and the technology in place to the communication with the press and the impact of the decision-making on the nation.

The Secretary of State (Nancy Garcilazo, associate superintendent in Southern California Conference), with a sense of urgency in her voice, appealed to the rest of the cabinet members: “There’s a Russian submarine 16 miles off the coast! We’ve got to do something, guys!” She prompted everyone to focus on that issue and make a decision that in real life could have triggered WWIII. Some members of the cabinet were proud of the positive impact of their recommendations. Sometimes the feeling of having so much power was overwhelming and prompted them to scrutinize the motives behind their recommendations.

The press was also at work. Patty Osborne, associate superintendent in Northern California

Conference, was assigned the role of CNN Chief White House Correspondent, trying to cover the breaking story. The team felt the pressure of preparing for their newscasts and Twitter feeds while sorting through a barrage of information coming from all directions. They had to get the story out now—determine the correct facts, organize the information in a coherent fashion, and use the power of the media to calm an upset nation.

As they were determining who might be responsible for the attack on the President, they received word from the situation room that citizens were making runs on local banks. While manning the phones, interviewing the FBI, and monitoring comments on digital media, the medical reporter informed the CNN team that the President would be non-responsive for several hours. Just then, CNN producers told them that it was time to update the nation with a live broadcast. They had to “face the nation” with their updates, even though they weren’t positive exactly what was happening. They were getting conflicting reports from all sides.

When the deadline clock counted down to zero at the end of the simulation, everyone was frazzled and frustrated—and recognized that they had a lot to learn about teamwork under pressure. As the whole group gathered to debrief, they learned that though they each had a role to play, they had differing objectives to accomplish. Sometimes the goals of an

At the debriefing, they realized that this experience was not unlike what education administrators do on a regular basis.

individual were in direct competition with what might have been best for the nation. Each of them secondguessed whether they’d made the right decision from the options given at the time, but they just kept going and figuring it out as they went.

Overall, it was fast-paced, fun, and overwhelming all at once. (Now, why did that feel familiar?) At the debriefing, they realized that this experience was not unlike what education administrators do on a regular basis. When a school faces a crisis,

teachers, administrators, and superintendents make the best decisions they can with the information they have at the time. Some discovered that they jumped right into their task when it would have been better if they’d spent time clarifying the priorities with their team. Some found that they were zoned in on their individual goals instead of what was the best for the group.

This Situation Room Experience confirmed to the participants how important it is to share what they know, rely on people they trust for help, and make informed decisions and not reactionary ones. Because they have the power to impact the lives of many children, they recognize the importance of keeping the students’ best interest in focus while making decisions at the administrative level.

After the debriefing session led by the employees at the Reagan Library, the Ed Leadership group spent time together discussing the applications to their work with schools. It was an invigorating day that will no doubt prove useful in the future.

By Recorder editors

David Trim Talks About His New Book, Hearts of Faith: How We Became Seventh-day Adventists

David J.B. Trim is the director of the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research for the General Conference. As a historian, scholar, and educator, Trim brings a rigorous spirit of inquiry to his work and has been a key figure in the resurgence of interest in the history of the Seventh-day Adventist church.

Hearts of Faith: How We Became Seventh-day Adventists takes the reader into the decades just after the Great Disappointment of 1844. It focuses on the motivations and impact of the earnest believers whose decisions led to the formation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1863. Trim’s inquisitive and insightful perspective brings the stories of pioneer Adventist leadership into sharp focus.

It is a topic that he clearly loves and a story he is eager to tell. Invited to discuss his reasons for writing the book, Trim readily responded to our questions about his new book via e-mail.

Your new book is called Hearts of Faith: How We Became Seventhday Adventists. What prompted this specific title?

The title is taken from a quotation from Ellen G. White, in Prophets and Kings, p. 175: “The records of sacred history are written, not merely that we may read and wonder, but that the same faith which wrought in God’s servants of old may work in us. In no less marked manner will the Lord work now, wherever there are hearts of faith to be channels of His power."

Why is knowing more about the way the Adventist Church came together theologically and organizationally relevant and important to believers today?

First, I think it is a fascinating story, and I hope readers will find it so. In general terms, as a historian, I believe it’s true that one can’t know where one is going unless one knows where one has come from. But in a particular way, I think it is important to know more about how our church came together theologically and organizationally because, while I don’t believe that history repeats, human social and cultural dynamics can produce similar currents at different points in history. And I believe that some of the barriers to unity and effective mission that were overcome in the 1840s have reemerged in recent years.

Who do you envision reading and benefiting from your book? What do you hope they will take away from the stories and information the book contains?

I hope that any Seventh-day Adventist could read this book and find it interesting. Although I am a

scholar, the book has not been written for scholars. In the endnotes, I provide more information for anyone who wants to go deeper in the history, but the text itself has been written to be accessible to every church member. Often Adventist history is written only as a story of doctrinal development. I do have something on how our beliefs emerged, because that is important, but I am also trying to tell a wider story. So the book is a social history of early Sabbatarian Adventists as well as a theological history, and I give a picture of what it meant to be a seventh-day Sabbath-keeping Adventist in the 1850s—one of a small movement, many of whose followers were isolated, yet who persisted in their faith. They, truly, had hearts of faith.

What is it that has helped sustain and strengthen the Adventist movement and church throughout our history?

It’s interesting to reflect on what helped to sustain and strengthen Adventists. One component was a strong sense of brother- and sisterhood. This partly came out of the shared experience of the Great Disappointment, which was a crucible that helped forge a sense of unity. However, one has to recognize (and the book points this out) that members of the wider Adventist movement that experienced October 22, 1844, were not bound together by that experience—they started to fragment very quickly.

At the same time, once Sabbatarian Adventists had abandoned the idea of a “shut door” (that only people who had been believers on October 22, 1844, could be saved), they were not at all exclusive. As I point out in the book, they advanced

It’s interesting to reflect on what helped to sustain and strengthen Adventists. One component was a strong sense of brother- and sisterhood.

to leadership in their movement people who had not been Millerites. There was no kind of informal hierarchy! So while the shared experience of Millerism was important to Sabbatarian Adventists, I think even more important was the shared experience of keeping the Sabbath and other doctrines that emerged as distinctive.

In terms of building a group identity, the Sabbath was probably the most important doctrine, because keeping the Sabbath set one visibly apart in terms of society and culture. Keeping the Sabbath and working on Sunday made the Sabbatarians stand out in their local communities, most of which were small—Sabbath-keeping would have been obvious.

Further, it (and other distinctive beliefs) attracted much hostility from other former Millerite Adventists, and indeed other Protestants more widely, and so Sabbatarian Adventists had this unique experience of being set apart from neighbors and other Christians. I think this must have built a strong sense of group identity, and indeed, as I point out in the book, there is evidence of a strong, underlying sense of Christian love, even though Sabbatarians were not afraid to speak to each other, or to write in their journal, very frankly. But they had deep bonds of common experience and affection that bound them together.

The other factor that helped to sustain and strengthen Sabbatarian Adventists and then Seventh-day Adventists was a sense of mission. They felt an urgent need to share the third angel’s message with the world. It took them some time to adjust to the idea that they needed to proclaim it beyond the shores of North America in fact (and this is something I’m currently writing another book about), but they very quickly accepted that, tiny as they were, God had entrusted them with the awesome responsibility of proclaiming the third angel’s message across North America. One reason they organized a denomination (even as other former Millerites were resisting organization and were fragmenting) was for the sake of mission. By the mid-1870s (this is the subject of the book I’m currently working on), that sense of urgency

and of mission encompassed the globe. It is really remarkable when one remembers how small the movement was not just in the 1850s but still in 1863 when the denomination was founded.

Your work has led to interesting insights into Adventism and the denomination itself. Many of them are contained in the book. With that as the context—what do you think is most relevant today about the Adventist message? What did our pioneers love and nurture that is still core to our mission and purpose today?

Your question is asking, or so it seems to me, what was central in our pioneers’ thinking. Two things, I think. First was the sense of mission that I just talked about. Second was love of Jesus. We know that by 1888 the message preached by Seventh-day Adventists had become legalistic—“as dry as the hills of Gilboa,” in Ellen White’s evocative phrase. I think we often tend to assume that this was true from the start, but I don’t believe it was. I think that legalism evolved, out of our concern for obeying the Ten Commandments, which was the natural corollary of the focus on keeping the fourth commandment. However, in our early years, our pioneers were focused on Jesus. They wanted to see His return, and—as James White put it in 1852, in a quotation I use in the book—they invited everyone “to find salvation through Jesus Christ.”

Who are two or three of your favorite persons in this great story who are included in your book? Why are you drawn to these particular characters?

I find myself drawn, almost against my inclination, to James White. He was a very powerful personality. If that hadn’t been the case, our history would have been different—we mightn’t have had a history. But that meant he was difficult to get on with. His writing style, evident in some of the passages I quote, could be very sarcastic, even acerbic. He spoke his mind frankly and undoubtedly gave offence. But as I describe, he resisted the attempt to make him president when the church was founded in 1863—undoubtedly because, having struggled for 10 years to persuade Sabbatarians to organize, he

didn’t want anyone to think his motive had been for personal glory or power; it had been because he knew organization was necessary for mission. So, despite often being difficult, there is just something compelling about James White.

I also find myself drawn to Joseph Frisbie. His name is forgotten now by Seventh-day Adventists, but he was one of the most influential leaders in the 1850s and was evidently a powerful evangelist— he helped build up the movement in Michigan. He argued compellingly that organization was needed. And he also was very inclusive. He baptized African Americans after his evangelistic meetings at a time when free Blacks (much less slaves) still faced widespread prejudice. I value that openmindedness. After the period covered by the book, he fell out with church leaders and stopped being a pastor, but he retained his faith until his death.

Adventists have developed a distinctive culture and approach to faith and life. Why are some things important to us and other things—which may occupy faith groups similar to ours—less important?

This is an excellent question and one I don’t reflect much on in the book. I think Sabbath is even more important to us than to many Protestants who believe they are keeping Sabbath on Sunday because, as I’ve already alluded, it was such a litmus test and could evoke social prejudice— and, eventually, after the period of the book, keeping the seventh day could lead to fines and imprisonment. But Adventists indeed do not get preoccupied by some things that other Christians get occupied by. An example is the meaning or significance of communion. So utterly have we escaped controversy about the Lord’s Supper that most Seventh-day Adventists don’t even realize how extraordinary that is because they just assume Communion is non-controversial.

It has led to schisms within Protestantism and has been the source of fierce controversy. But not for us. I think this was because our pioneers mostly had a similar understanding, and also because—even as people of other backgrounds were converted, which

might have led to controversy—we had other things that concerned us: the Sabbath, the Sanctuary, the Second Coming, the State of the Dead, and so on. These took up our energies, and so we avoided the controversies that racked other Protestant denominations.

Is Adventism a chosen movement? How does the story of our history help foster trust and understanding in God’s plan and providence?

As a Seventh-day Adventist myself, I believe that Adventism is a chosen movement. But that doesn’t mean that I think our history was entirely foreordained and, as it were, prearranged by God. As I say in the book, if our pioneers had made different decisions, our history could have been different. I believe that a seventh-day Sabbathkeeping denomination, with James and Ellen White as key leaders, would have emerged. But it might have taken longer—and we might have taken longer still to reach out beyond the midwestern heartland (that emerged in the 1850s) to share the gospel and prophetic truth more widely. So believing in God’s providence and guiding hand means that I accept that the broad contours of our history would probably have been the same, but the more detailed course of our history could have been quite different. And that would affect the church of today. We could be much smaller or more geographically limited than we are.

And that is because there were leaders—and ordinary believers, too, who had to respond to what the leaders proposed—who took certain decisions: to organize, against the instincts of many Millerites, and to establish a system whereby we took resources from where we were strong to send to mission fields. These were crucial decisions, and I hope readers get a sense of how, despite the promptings of providence, there were conflicting currents and in the end our history could have been different. That means that our history is not just a set of interesting and inspiring stories (though I believe our history is that); it also has lessons to teach us today about the need to work together and to still be passionate about mission.

Church State Council Joins Fight for Religious Liberty

at U.S. Supreme Court

Alan Reinach, executive director of the Church State Council, joined the team of First Liberty Institute, Baker Botts, LLP, and Independence Law Center as they brought a case to the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of former mail carrier Gerald Groff. Recently the Court heard arguments presented by these lawyers asking the justices to restore the important protections for religious employees to what Congress intended before the courts watered down Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Reinach served on the legal team and was in the Courtroom during oral arguments.

The Church State Council is the oldest public policy organization in the western United States devoted to religious freedom and the separation of church and state. It is a Seventh-day Adventist organization, the public affairs and religious liberty ministry of the Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The Council’s legal services ministry focuses on serving those who need religious accommodation in the workplace or suffer discrimination. Title VII of the Civil Rights act provides important protections for religious

exemptions, and the Groff case is one of many in which the Council has provided legal counsel and representation.

“Courts have interpreted Title VII so restrictively that employers need not grant even the most simple of accommodations to religious observers to enable them to follow their faith,” observed Reinach. “Restoring Title VII’s focus of protecting religious employees motivates everyone from the boardroom to the mail room to find a solution that works for the business as a whole. The way the courts have interpreted Title VII has disadvantaged those who adhere to certain religious traditions. Ensuring everyone is treated fairly affirms our nation's historic commitment to religious diversity, even at work.”

Gerald Groff applied to work for the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 2012. He thought working for USPS would allow him to honor his day of devotion each week by resting, worshipping with his church family, and serving his family and community.

But, in 2016, the USPS accepted contracts to provide Sunday delivery for online retailer Amazon.

Initially, USPS accommodated Groff, but he soon was required to work Sundays, in violation of his strongly held personal beliefs. His case, Groff v. DeJoy, presented the justices with the opportunity to reconfirm the language of Title VII, as passed by Congress, requiring an employer to accommodate an employee’s religion unless it would cause an “undue hardship on the conduct of the employer’s business.”

The work of the Church State Council has had positive media attention during the Groff case and led to an opinion piece by Alan Reinach in Newsweek . Alan Reinach has been executive director of the Church State Council, the religious liberty educational and advocacy arm of the Pacific Union Conference, since 1994. He is a member of both the New York and California state bar associations.

Elder Rich DuBose Retires from Church Support Services

The Pacific Union Conference has announced the retirement of Elder Rich DuBose, director of Church Support Services (aka Creative Ministries). Elder DuBose began serving the Pacific Union Conference as a resource developer and provider on November 1, 1994.

Rich DuBose brought a wealth of skill and experience to his work at the Pacific Union. He served as associate pastor of the Azure Hills church in Grand Terrace, California, from 1990-1994. From 1984-1989 he was youth pastor of the Boulder church in Boulder, Colorado, and chaplain and senior Bible teacher at Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado. Before that (from November 1976 to December 1984) DuBose served in Florida—as lead pastor of the Daytona church, lead pastor of the Saint Augustine church, and intern pastor of the Florida Hospital church in Orlando.

A native of Tampa, Florida, DuBose received a Bachelor of Science degree from Andrews University and a Master of Arts degree in Religion (Church and Ministry) from Loma Linda University. Rich’s wife, Linda Erickson DuBose, is a freelance publisher, has worked as a registered dietitian, and is an alumna of

Broadview Academy and Andrews University. The DuBoses have two adult children, Benjamin and Erika (Gladden).

Through the work of Church Support Services, DuBose was instrumental in the creation of resources, online study guides, and web outreach tools; the publication of a quarterly idea newsletter; the development of books on local ministry; and the ongoing production of story videos that focus on creative ministries. An innovative ministry called “InSpire,” which encourages Adventist creatives to use their gifts (art, music, and film) to help tell God’s story, has won the attention and appreciation of artists and content producers.

Elder Dubose is an accomplished musician and enjoys playing guitar, songwriting, sound engineering, photography, hiking, cross country skiing, and writing. These are pursuits that he plans to continue in retirement. His music and art can be found at www. richdubose.com.

By Ray Tetz, the director of communication and community engagement for the Pacific Union Conference and the publisher of the Pacific Union Recorder

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While Intro to Teaching on the college schedule would be completed in one quarter, this class—specifically tailored for the busy high school student's schedule will be stretched out over two quarters to allow for easier completion.

Retirees Evangelism in Southeast Arizona

Southeastern Arizona is a beautiful part of the Southwest’s high desert area, encompassing the Huachuca, Chiricahua, and Whetsone mountains. Historically the land of the Apache and of mining interests, the area has now become a haven for retirees looking for a low cost of living, beautiful scenery, good weather, great hiking, and bird-watching opportunities.

One of the three main cities in this part of Arizona is Sierra Vista, which houses the Fort Huachuca Military Base. The Adventist church in Sierra Vista is experiencing a resurgence of life as an active group of retirees have settled there from all parts of the United States and have become very involved in evangelism and leading out in Bible studies. Church members are meeting with Bible students in homes and businesses to pass along God’s message of love for them. With 70 Bible studies currently taking place, the church is actively spreading the Word of God in their community.

Travel further southeast from Sierra Vista to the town of Bisbee in the land of ore and smelting. Known for the Copper Queen Mine for much of the 20th century, the closing of the mine in the 1970s radically changed the economic future of the town. In the 1980s and ‘90s, the town had a rebirth of life as people seeking a socially unconventional lifestyle with a low cost of living sought a place to retire. The Bisbee church and the adjoining Cochise SDA Christian School are actively spreading the gospel. The members see this as a great place for the young at heart to retire and help carve out a great reputation for leading Bible

studies. Over 40 Bible studies are currently being conducted by the members of the church.

Pastor Alvin Schnell and the members of both the Sierra Vista and Bisbee churches have looked at Douglas, Arizona, as place to begin growing evangelism. Douglas sits a few miles from Bisbee on the Mexican border. The local church group has 10 members, but last year members of its sister churches helped with starting 18 Bible studies that took place in the church and 14 additional studies that took place in homes.

While there are many exciting aspects of retiring in this area of Arizona, the members of the Adventist churches in Sierra Vista, Bisbee, and Douglas want people to retire here and be active in evangelism. While Southeast Arizona is seeing a rebirth of population in recent years, the Adventist church is also seeing a rebirth of members as these churches grow and spread the gospel.

By Craig Paul

Chinle Church Survives Historic Flood

On April 21, snowmelt came surging down the Canyon de Chelly in Chinle, Arizona, and broke through a berm that was meant to hold back floodwaters. As water surged into town, the Adventist mission site was about 90% under water for a day or so and power was out for about two days. The water came within three inches of entering the church building but then receded, which meant that there was no water damage in the church or fellowship hall. However, the old parsonage (used for children's Sabbath

School and storage) is about six inches lower than the rest of the building, and two inches of water flooded that area. All the residences and the school are higher off the ground and weren't seriously threatened with water damage, although there was water in the crawlspace under two of the residences.

A wonderful group of volunteers from the Glendale (Arizona) church came the following weekend, and by Friday afternoon they had completely cleaned up the floors in the old parsonage, which are all tile and vinyl—

Members of the Sierra Vista church pray over Pastor Alvin Schnell and the ministry of the church.

no carpet. At this time, it is unclear whether there is damage to the walls that will require remediation. Once the property completely dried, there was up to 12 inches of sandy silt on portions of the driveway and parking area that needed to be removed. Several loads of gravel will be required to resurface some of those areas.

Several of the church member families were affected by the flooding as some homes were completely flooded. The cleanup will take a while for some of the areas in and around Chinle that were under several inches of mud and silt. In what has been described as the worst flood

By Dale Wolcott

Songs of Prayer and Praise Through the Pandemic Years: The Glendale Sanctuary Choir

With God’s blessing, the Glendale Sanctuary Choir continued its ministry through the pandemic years. The GSC, begun in 1976, is the longest continuously running church choir in Arizona. No one could have predicted covid impacts, but the Lord sustained with the light of His fellowship through the isolation.

In the spring of 2020, with the Easter concert postponed, the choir shifted to a small chorale group of 12 and a video project included singers local and distant. (You can watch the recording at https://youtu. be/EYk53TqQOJ4.) After a memorial service for a family member of one of the choir members, a few singers took to their church choir seats in quiet solidarity. Nestled in the group, one singer, Mary Skalkoyannis, exclaimed, "We have to find a way to sing again!'' After prayer, God prompted her multiple times to urge the director, Dennis Marsollier, to resume the large inperson choir. Marsollier prayed, considered music, and studied precautions.

In early October 2020, Marsollier heard an almost audible voice, "Your Christmas concert is called Hope." Later he heard, "You will sing, ‘We Are Not Alone.’” Through much prayer and reading of Scripture, he was also led to the story of the Red Sea as well as a quote from Ellen White, “The great lesson here taught is for all time. Often the Christian life is beset by dangers, and duty seems hard to perform. The imagination pictures impending ruin before and bondage or death behind. Yet the voice of God speaks clearly, ‘Go forward’” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 290).

In November 2020, the full choir resumed with much prayer and many safety protocols, and in December 2020, three Christmas choir services were held with limited audience seating. The choir ended with a song they had not rehearsed for the performance. The next Sabbath, Pastor Gary Venden recalled in exclamation, “The impromptu Hallelujah chorus encore was wonderful, spontaneous worship!”

The start of 2021 began with a more regular schedule as the choir sang for a few Sabbath services, a Festival of Praise, and two limited-seating Easter services. Marsollier said of the latter, “I saw people crying in the audience. The Spirit was moving.”

Attendance for choir events increased over the next year. Prayer also increased weekly Wednesday prayer day and special prayer time before each practice. The members supported one another through more familial losses and illnesses. The 2022 Christmas worship, “Shine on Us,” began with a special remembrance for the group’s at-rest founder and organist, Rene Marsollier.

As the choir begins its 48th season later this year, potential members are encouraged to join in this ministry of fellowship and music that has persevered and triumphed.

By Tennille Feldbush

in the history of Chinle, loss was minimal and the church mission site was largely spared from extensive damage.

Building Faith Together: Memorable Boys’ and Girls’ Retreats Empower the Next Generation

During the weekends of April 21-23 and April 29-30, 2023, our Senior Youth Department conducted remarkable spiritual retreats for both boys and girls, which proved highly impactful. These events were characterized by warm fellowship, in-depth Bible study sessions, uplifting worship, and life-changing baptisms, leaving an indelible mark on the participants.

The girls' retreat, themed "Dear Beloved," was graced by speaker Erica Jones, the Assistant Director of Women’s Ministries for the North American Division. The retreat focused on understanding and embracing God's love, experiencing healing, and cultivating confidence in God. Under the expert guidance of coordinator Kendra Miranda, the weekend was skillfully organized, providing young women with a much-needed opportunity to delve deeper into their spiritual journey.

On the other hand, the boys' retreat, titled "Waking the Warrior," presented various exciting activities, including rattlesnake handling, jousting, and a

reenactment of the legendary "300" battle. The young adult staff led heartfelt worship sessions, ensuring that this retreat would remain an unforgettable experience for all who attended.

Three core objectives drive these events:

1. To draw teens closer to Jesus and help them discover abundant life in Him.

2. To foster young adult discipleship through their leadership and support roles in these events.

3. To continually evolve and innovate in our approach to ministry.

Youth and young adult ministry have become more vital in today's world. By creating the right environment and offering transformative experiences, we can enable our young people to thrive and grow in their faith. As we reflect on the impact of these retreats, we are filled with hope and anticipation for the continued spiritual development of the next generation.

By Anil Kanda

iRise Brings Youth to the Forefront of Our Calling

Anew challenge to young people in Central California Conference (CCC) has arrived. iRise is part of the initiatives set forth with the Arise and Go model of evangelism from the book of Acts. Live iRise sessions began in February, and currently about a dozen sessions are held across the conference every Thursday evening in-person and via Zoom. Evangelists and presenters share practical insights so young people can learn to preach in public settings.

“Arise and Go simply means to go tell people about Jesus. iRise is a calling and challenge for young people to take the ministry and rise,” explained Eddy Perez, CCC evangelist.

On March 12, an in-person, conference-wide iRise Encounter was held. Young people spent the day receiving hands-on training, tools, and resources to bring to their churches and communities and to do evangelism.

iRise challenges youth groups in CCC to do four things. First, attend each iRise live session via Zoom on Thursdays. Second, attend iRise Encounter events. Third, commit to conducting a one-week public evangelistic outreach project primarily led by young people. And fourth, produce a one-minute or two-minute video to share on social media. This encourages youth to tap into their unique creative abilities.

The recent winning video for this social media project, voted on by young people at the iRise Encounter event, was created by Bakersfield Central. Because of winning, they were awarded a $1,000 grant. “They conducted their evangelistic series, which concluded April 8, with four baptisms from the outset!” Perez explained.

“Thursday evening, April 6, a young man was preaching who had been baptized just two weeks before,” Perez continued. This person made an appeal to young people, and another young gentleman made the decision to be baptized. Perez says it is amazing to see how they go from training to implementing and actually leading souls to the Lord.

“This is a wonderful example of iRise fulfilling the gospel commission. We are excited about this project and look forward to seeing what else our young people do,” he continued. “They have incredible energy, abilities, commitment, and dedication. Their sincerity is something God uses in marvelous ways. We are seeing an outpouring of the Holy Spirit here among our young people at the Central California Conference. It thrills our hearts.”

By Brennan Hallock

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2023 Hawaii Young Adult Retreat

Distill a young adult retreat down to its most meaningful and memorable essentials and you will have May 5-7 at Camp Waianae. With three of the Hawaiian islands represented and several old and new friends flying in from the mainland, over 100 young adults gathered in that beautiful camp setting for two days of worship in Word and music, opportunities to bond through adventure and sharing talents, and excellent vegetarian cuisine.

The theme for the retreat was “Talking Story.” In Hawaii, “talk story” is pidgin for talking with old friends and passing time together. The weekend was faithfully structured around this simple but deep method of building relationships. Gifted guest speaker Iki Taimi, lead pastor of the La Sierra University church, highlighted moments of when Jesus talking story led to transformed lives. Pastor Mark Tamaleaa set aside the hour of divine service for each participant to talk story directly with Jesus in a guided prayer and Scripture experience called "Personal Retreat: 1 Hour of Jesus & Me." On Sabbath afternoon, attendees dispersed along the west side of Oahu to—you guessed it—talk story during outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, hiking, surfing, and relaxing on the beach.

The moments surrounding these main elements were rich as well. Some participants climbed the

mountain on campus to catch the sunrise, contributed to the early morning Bible studies, or shared during the open mics after evening worships. Some populated the pool or attended the campfire Saturday evening, while the basketball court was busy until 1 a.m. They sat under broad trees, snacked, played spikeball, hammocked, and walked together. These were all opportunities to make memories and talk story.

Saturday evening, after a full day of worship and adventures, Pastor Iki opened up an invitation to commit to Jesus through baptism. Becky stepped forward. Within a few minutes, everyone congregated around the pool and began harmonizing hymns led by the weekend's worship team. With her Aiea church friends and her new friends looking on, and with pastors Brian Garcia and Mark Tamaleaa with her in the water, Becky gave her life to Jesus.

This was Pastor Mark's initial conference-wide event for young adults as conference youth and young adult director. He intends to be guided by the goal of leading young people into a saving relationship with Jesus and to build a supportive, familial community in which they will thrive. I personally sense we are moving into a time of revitalization and growth among young adults in Hawaii. Welcome home, Becky.

By Scott Kabel

Holbrook Students Enjoy Elementary Experience and Outdoor School

Elementary Experience

Every year, our elementary students at Holbrook Indian School (HIS) have the privilege of encountering learning beyond classrooms and books. This annual weeklong endeavor is known as Elementary Experience. Between April 12 and 19, our young pupils engaged in STEM activities, horseback riding, birdhouse building, and exploring places off campus, such as the Lowell

Observatory and the Out of Africa Safari near Flagstaff. Elementary Experience includes grades 1 to 7 and occurs during the same time as Outdoor School, which involves grades 8 to 12. Like Outdoor School, the offcampus location of Elementary Experience rotates on a four-year cycle, alternating between several local venues and one long-distance trip to Flagstaff. This year, our students in grades 1 to 7 once again had the privilege of staying at the El Nathan Campground. El Nathan is a Christian ministry dedicated to enriching the

A Seventh-day Adventist Boarding Academy Serving Native American Youth Since 1946

lives of each guest and promoting a deeper walk with Christ. We are grateful for their generosity in opening their facility to us.

Each year there is a specific cornerstone and theme for Elementary Experience. This year’s theme was “Jesus, Our Forever Friend,” based on Ecclesiastes 4:9—“Two are better than one.” The learning focus was on STEM classes alongside Bible, horsemanship, coding, cooking, art, tennis, vocational classes, and P.E. The objectives focused on an intentional relationship with God, leadership, team building, and having fun. The goal of Elementary Experience is to broaden our students’ perspectives about STEM-based fields, all while centering around our general MAPS program.

Outdoor School

As with the elementary grades, each year our 8th- through 12th-graders also have a non-traditional weeklong learning extravaganza. Outdoor School is approximately five to six days of classes that take place in the great outdoors. Our older students get to help coordinate the details of their Outdoor School excursions. Each year the students travel to one of five locations: Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, or San Diego.

Holbrook Indian School (HIS) is a first- through twelfthgrade boarding academy operated by the Pacific Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. HIS also manages a first- through eighth-grade day school on the Navajo reservation in Chinle, Arizona. Eighty-seven percent of funding comes from individuals who have a desire to support Native American ministries and Christian education. Your generosity makes a difference in the lives of our students, their families, and the communities they serve. Thank you for your support.

DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

P.O. Box 910 • Holbrook, Arizona 86025-0910

(928) 524-6845 (Ext. 109) • Development@hissda.org

HolbrookIndianSchool.org

This year, instead of visiting a national park, students traveled to San Diego—many of them for the first time. This year’s theme was “In it, but not of it,” and this trip gave them a real-time example of Jesus’ advice that while we must live in this world, we don’t have to be part of it. The purpose of this venue choice was to give students the opportunity to visit an urban environment close to the ocean and learn how to navigate public transportation.

Student-involved planning included researching activities of interest related to our MAPS program to help them gain Mental, Academic/Artistic, Physical, and Spiritual wholeness, as well as searching out public transportation schedules. Their experience included visiting La Jolla tide pools, Leadership Camp on the USS Midway, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a whalewatching cruise, and the Living Coast Discovery Center. All in all, we are grateful for the opportunity to give our students these experiences, thanks to many generous friends of HIS.

By Kimberly Cruz and Chevon Petgrave

Adventist Health Glendale receives ANCC Magnet Recognition

Adventist Health Glendale has been formally recognized as a Magnetdesignated healthcare organization by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The Magnet Recognition is the highest and most prestigious international distinction a healthcare organization can receive for nursing.

Magnet Recognition represents superior nursing processes that improve nurse satisfaction and retention, unparalleled patient care with a direct link to positive patient outcomes, and the highest levels of safety and quality.

The evaluation process for Magnet Recognition involved three and a half years of intensive preparations, review, and inspections. Sharon Pappas, chair of the Commission for the Magnet Recognition Program, praised the 900 nurses at Adventist Health Glendale for their professionalism, dedication, and compassion.

Commendations from the ANCC included recognition for innovation in Emergency Department triage, nursing sensitivity indicators for quality and

safety, patient satisfaction, and Adventist Health Glendale’s creation of a multidisciplinary team to respond to needs during the covid surge to deliver safe and positive patient and employee outcomes.

“Preparing for Magnet designation, our hospital went through a rigorous process of evaluation by the Magnet Recognition Program of ANCC, which involved demonstrating excellence in nursing leadership, staff engagement and satisfaction, patient outcomes and quality of nursing practice,” said Jinhee Nguyen, patient care executive for Adventist Health Glendale. “Our organization is committed to providing the structure to provide evidence-based nursing care, support professional development, and create a culture of innovation and excellence in nursing practice. For our patients and their families, this means they can have the utmost confidence in the quality of care they will receive.”

Adventist Health Glendale is the first healthcare facility in Glendale to receive ANCC Magnet Recognition, the industry gold standard in nursing. Less than 9% of U.S. hospitals are Magnet-recognized.

By Kim Strobel

Adventist Health Feather River to Renovate in Paradise

Adventist Health will begin a renovation and expansion project this summer at the Feather River Health Center in Paradise, California.

This project will create a dedicated Rapid Care Clinic with exam rooms and an entrance for ambulances, remodel the Primary Care Clinic to increase patient access, and reestablish women’s imaging services.

“The Skyway Clinic renovation and expansion project represents the first segment of a multi-phase

plan,” said Chris Champlin, president of Adventist Health Feather River. “Our long-term, scalable plan is designed to improve access to quality care and recruit more providers to meet the community’s current needs and ensure they are sustainable well into the future.”

Renovation is scheduled for completion in November or December 2023.

By Kim Strobel

Homecoming 2023 Honors Alums, Celebrates Class of 1973

It was July 20, 1969, and incoming college freshman

Rick Serns was driving an electric cart, gathering eggs on the farm of the La Sierra campus of Loma Linda University. It was an historical day of enormous worldwide importance—the crew of Apollo 11 was making its lunar landing and Neil Armstrong would place the first human footprint on the moon. Serns paused his egg collecting and listened to the drama unfold on the farm manager’s small transistor radio.

It is among the poignant memories Serns, a former academy teacher, principal, and a public school district superintendent, holds of his alma mater as a member of La Sierra University’s class of 1973. He recounted the story and others during La Sierra’s Homecoming 2023 held April 13-15. His college graduating class, this year’s 50-year class, was honored with medallions during the April 14 Recognition Banquet and with a special luncheon on April 15.

Alumni weekend activities began on Thursday, April 13 with the inaugural Zapara School of Business Young Alumni Mixer, which attracted more than 200 attendees, and the university’s long-standing Paul J. Landa Memorial Lecture, which featured Carmen Lau, president of Adventist Forum. The weekend’s Recognition Banquet on April 14 attracted nearly 175

people and honored eight alumni, two each from the university’s three schools and its college as well as the alumnus of the year award, which was presented to Berit von Pohle, the Pacific Union Conference’s vice president for education.

Sabbath services at La Sierra University church featured La Sierra alumnus and speaker Dick Duerksen, who riveted the audience with his masterful storytelling. Campus departments and centers held open houses during the afternoon, followed by an evening art exhibit and student awards ceremony and the annual concerto concert at Hole Memorial Auditorium showcasing the recipient of the annual Marcia Specht-Guy Prize.

Von Pohle, a four-time graduate of La Sierra University, in an acceptance video recalled her family’s rich history with the school that began when they immigrated to the United States from Denmark 65 years ago. “La Sierra is my home,” she said. “I left La Sierra prepared to be a teacher.… And now as a professional working for the Pacific Union Conference, I have the opportunity to work with La Sierra to ensure that that kind of opportunity continues for the next generation, because I want La Sierra to be home for many others.”

By Darla Martin Tucker

Dr. Berit von Pohle, left, accepts the Alumnus of the Year award from La Sierra University President Joy Fehr on April 14.

Left to right, members of La Sierra University’s class of 1973, Rick Serns, Thelda Roberts Goodlitt, and Paul Beach, in front of Founders’ Green on April 15.

Cardiologists Fix High-Risk Patient’s Leaky Heart Valve with ‘Outside the Box’ Solution

Structural interventional cardiologists at Loma Linda University International Heart Institute have performed hundreds of valve replacement procedures, each case different. Fixing 70-year-old Kamal Guindi’s heart valve proved a highly risky prospect, said Amr Mohsen, MD, who performed the procedure with Jason Hoff, MD. The team had to strategize in a new way.

Guindi and his family expressed gratitude that the minimally invasive procedure known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) restored his independence by ending years-long suffering from intense symptoms like shortness of breath, weakness, and fatigue.

“These cardiologists at LLU thought outside the box to make my father’s procedure happen,” said Guindi’s son, Joseph Haroun. “Their persistence and care saved him.”

Several factors contributed to the complexity of Guindi’s case, said Mohsen: a history of heart attack, bypass surgery, severe heart failure, blocked arteries in the legs, and a valve disorder with a leaky aortic valve. In a leaky aortic valve, flaps that control blood flow through the heart valve no longer close tightly, so the blood that’s supposed to pump out of the valve instead leaks backward, said Mohsen.

Mohsen and Hoff devised a plan to remedy Guindi's leaky aortic valve using a slightly oversized artificial valve during the TAVR. Typically, artificial TAVR valves anchor to calcium lining patients’ heart valves; the devices don’t stay in place without calcium and in a leaky valve like Guindi’s. Deploying a larger-sized artificial valve in Guindi’s leaky valve would help ensure it stayed secure, Mohsen said.

To perform Guindi’s minimally invasive TAVR, Mohsen and Hoff punctured an artery in the leg. Through this

See the latest news and Health & Wellness stories from Loma Linda University Health at news.llu.edu.

small puncture, they implanted the new valve on a balloon slender enough to fit in the artery. Next, they advanced this valve through a sheath—maneuvering blockages in Guindi’s leg arteries and stents from prior procedures—eventually reaching and replacing the diseased aortic valve. Guindi was able to return home the next day.

Haroun said his father experienced a winding, challenging journey leading to the TAVR. Guindi’s health had steadily deteriorated for two years while symptoms worsened, and he struggled to breathe and walk. Cardiologists ran tests and debated Guindi’s available treatment options as a high-risk patient. Medical therapy had failed to control Guindi’s symptoms, and he was not eligible for advanced heart failure therapy, including a heart transplant or left ventricular assist device (LVAD).

When heart failure specialist Ahmed Seliem, MD, met Haroun and Guindi, he referred them to structural interventional cardiology to see what could be done. By this point, Mohsen said Guindi’s heart was only functioning at a 15% capacity, making any procedure risky, “but his only option.” Mohsen communicated the TAVR’s risk considerations with Guindi in his native language of Arabic, and the family opted to move forward with the procedure.

“We understood the procedure was risky but decided to move forward with it because my father was in a bad state, and his quality of life would otherwise have kept declining,” Haroun said.

A month after the procedure, Guindi said he "feels good" and can return to his peaceful life as a retired pharmacist. He has regained the ability to tend to daily errands and enjoy neighborhood strolls.

“Doctors Seliem, Mohsen, and Hoff treated my dad as he if were a family member," Haroun said. "They were willing to take the risk and help him by making this procedure happen."

Recent tests revealed Guindi’s heart function increased to 25%, and Mohsen said he is hopeful for further improvement over time.

By Lisa Aubry

PUC’s Spring Enrollment Highest in Over 10 Years

This year’s theme at Pacific Union College is “Revival.” Certainly, there’s no better metaphor for renewal than spring. It’s a time when we witness the glorious rebirth of nature all around us. The sun finally casts its warm light after a long, cold winter. Spring brings a revitalized sense of optimism.

Likewise, there’s optimism on the horizon for PUC. For the first time in over a decade, PUC has the highest number of new students enrolled for spring. Additionally, Economic Full-Time Equivalent (EFTE) enrollment has increased each quarter this year— something that has never happened before in the modern history of the college.

Many factors have contributed to these successes. Kharolynn Pascual Smith, director of orientation, transitions, and retention, said the return to prepandemic conditions has made it possible for many students to move forward with their college plans. Pascual Smith, who focuses primarily on re-enrollment, regularly checks in with her students and helps them through difficult obstacles. That kind of personal care is another reason students are more likely to stay.

Pascual Smith also cited the enrollment team’s “intentional approach in seeking out and cultivating potential students for whom PUC could be a good fit.”

Indeed, PUC enrollment counselors have worked with genuine care and purpose to build relationships and be actively present at events, including academy visits, fairs, camp meetings, and camps in the summer. Director of Recruitment Pauline Cidro said her team’s strength is customer service. “We make sure our students know that we are their go-to people, ready to provide them with ongoing support as they go through their decision-making processes.”

Another outstanding achievement is that retention of returning students is currently tied for the highest

rate in recent history. Director of Admissions Craig Philpott said this retention is a significant component of the growth at PUC. There is a growing message that PUC cares about each student and their success in life— beyond grades. “This messaging is already having an impact on our current students,” Philpott said.

Online offerings and programs on other campuses are also supporting growth. Philpott said there is a growing number of “drive-in” students—new and local new-transfer students who are choosing PUC as their college. Many of them are nursing and healthcare students. The online BSN program has also attracted working nurses. “Gradually, we are developing a customer base that is seeking the education products of PUC without a commitment to residential campus programs,” Philpott said.

This good news has far-reaching effects. Commitments for next fall are the highest they’ve been in five years. Philpott said that spring typically predicts growth for the fall quarter—particularly the number of returning oncampus students combined with strong retention and growth in online and off-campus programs.

This rise in enrollment and retention did not just result from the hard work of PUC’s enrollment staff. It was because of faculty, staff, and others who took extra time with students and kept PUC in prayer.

“Many people in a variety of spheres—whether they’re students, staff, faculty, alumni, board members, or community members near and far—care deeply about PUC and our students,” Pascual Smith said. “They’re using their influence to encourage new students to attend, current students to persist, and stop-out students to return. I also know there are prayer warriors out there, specifically praying for PUC’s success in fulfilling its mission. It truly is a team effort!”

By Laura Gang

NUC Welcomes Dr. Michael Jenkins Jr.

We are delighted to share that Michael Jenkins Jr., has accepted the call to the Nevada-Utah Conference to serve as the pastor for the Abundant Life church in Las Vegas, Nevada, effective May 1, 2023.

A seasoned minister, teacher, and counselor, Jenkins comes to us with 23 years of ministry experience. He is committed to community engagement and involvement and has a passion (and expertise) for urban ministry and youth/young adult ministry.

Most recently, Jenkins served the Kansas Avenue church in Riverside, California, as the administrative pastor. His colleagues describe him as “hardworking” and “one who possesses strong administrative skills.” A former member shared that “Pastor Jenkins is a kind and loving pastor who is dedicated to the sharing of the message of hope and truth to those with whom he comes in contact.”

Head Elder Virgil Richardson shared, “The Abundant Life search committee took their appointment very seriously. As a church and committee, we took time to pray and fast for who our new pastor would be, and we believe that Pastor Jenkins is the right man for us. With confidence we know that God has brought him here for such a time as this.”

A graduate of Oakwood University and the theological seminary at Andrews University, Jenkins completed his Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration in Urban Ministry in 2019.

Joining Jenkins on this pastoral journey is his wife, Erin, a nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry-mental health. She also serves as a captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. Together they have a beautiful family with five children—two adult children, one Oakwood University junior (Brenna), and two high school seniors (Michael and Mason).

Dr. Jenkins was installed on Sabbath, May 13, 2023. Thank you for keeping this pastoral family and congregation in prayer as they begin their new chapter together.

By Chanda Nunes-Henry

“Pastor Jenkins is a kind and loving pastor who is dedicated to the sharing of the message of hope and truth to those with whom he comes in contact.”

A FORMER MEMBER

Nevada-Utah Conference Holds STEAM Fair

The first Annual Nevada-Utah Conference Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Fair was held at Summit Christian Academy (SCA) in Salt Lake City, Utah, from April 21 to April 23, 2023. The event showcased the creative and innovative projects of the students attending Vegas Valley Adventist Academy (VVAA) and the local students of SCA. The fair aimed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills among students, as well as to inspire curiosity and appreciation for both art and science.

Some of the highlights of the fair included a homemade water filter, the relationship between blood types and physical health, and a self-inflating balloon. It was a unique opportunity for the students to meet and mingle with other students within the conference. “Events like this bring awareness to our students that they are a part of a bigger family” remarked the principal of VVAA, Dacyl Galicia-Silveira.

Parents, pastors, and other attendees, including Nevada-Utah Conference (NUC) President Carlos Camacho, were particularly impressed by the fact that each project was tied to a spiritual and biblical application. Pastor Camacho encouraged the participants to “never be afraid of their creativity and continue to be innovative and curious.” He reminded all attendees that “God created us to be creative.” All participants were given medals for their hard work and to commemorate this special event.

The organizers of the fair, led by Fernando Lista, NUC superintendent of education, expressed their satisfaction with the good turnout and the positive feedback from the participants and visitors. Lista said he hopes that this kind of event will continue to have a positive impact on the schools across the conference. Next year the Annual NUC STEAM Fair will be hosted in Las Vegas.

By Neat Randriamialison

TOP LEFT: A VVAA student discusses the results of her findings on why we shouldn’t eat sugar. TOP RIGHT: Fernando Lista, NUC education superintendent, questions a VVAA student about her fascinating study of blood. BOTTOM LEFT: Students listen to Superintendent Lista share his excitement about their work as he prepares them for the next activity of the fair. BOTTOM RIGHT: A happy VVAA student shares his exhibit with attendees at the First Annual NUC STEAM Fair.

Ruben Vargas Installed

In April, Ruben Vargas was installed as district pastor at the Napa and St. Helena Spanish churches and the Sonoma Spanish company. Recently, Vargas was pastor of the Tracy Spanish church. He said about his move, "As I enter this new church district, my goal during the first few months can be summarized in one word: Learn. I am community relevant and strive to learn a congregation's history through fellowship with the members. I work to come alongside current projects and observe the heartbeat of a church congregation. I want to assimilate their needs and know their strengths. I want to learn from God what He wants for His church and my family as He leads us." Vargas shares life with Madeleine, his wife, and they were recently blessed by the arrival of their son, Jared Benjamin, in January.

By the Communication and Development Department

Efficient Teamwork Speeds Echo Ridge Gym Rebuild

Echo Ridge Christian School in Nevada City, serving Pre-K through 8th-grade students, suffered a significant setback on March 5 when the gymnasium roof collapsed due to heavy snow and rain. According to the principal, Patti Osborne, the gym was used for physical education and other activities such as the library, music department, chapel, art, and cooking classes.

Osborne explained that the gym had recently been renovated, including coverings for the gym floor, and $10,000 had been spent on cutting down trees to ensure safety and protect the gym. The school rented the space to five local entities to provide crucial financial support.

Northern California Conference Director of Communication and Development Laurie Trujillo confirmed that while the loss of the gym would significantly impact the 42 students and four teaching staff, all classrooms on the campus remained undamaged. The school has continued to operate during cleanup and rebuilding.

Efforts are underway to rebuild the gym in the aftermath of the collapse caused by the snow. According to Osborne, “Our treasurer, Russell Malott, has shown

passionate hard work to secure three bids for the demolition and asbestos removal. Those bids have been forwarded to the conference property management team for approval.”

Richard Magnuson, director of property management, praised Echo Ridge’s team for a professional-level job. “They provided quotes from qualified and vetted contractors, one of whom we have approved for the work. We expect to have the payments to them quickly to start the work.”

Osborne continued, “The gymnasium was significant in teaching our students. It was also a community builder for our school. I appreciate our volunteers and the property management department’s dedication to rebuilding quickly.”

Trujillo stated, “After seeing so many disasters in our territory, it is great that everybody involved in the Echo Ridge project has come together and is working efficiently and effectively.”

By Ken Miller

Burned Out?

Hope springs anew at Leoni Meadows! While guests participate in various retreats, the staff and contractors are hard at work on the continued recovery efforts. The barn is complete, the new wilderness camp area is being prepared, the new pool footprint has been dug, and artisans are rebuilding the essential multipurpose building. After the dead and dangerous trees had been clearcut, hundreds of thousands of baby trees were planted throughout the property.

Despite the damage caused by the fire, new springs are flowing where there was never water before, partly due to the overabundance of snow but also just part of the natural recovery process. The recovery process at Leoni Meadows is a physical reminder of God’s promise in Isaiah 58:11, “The Lord will guide you continually, and

satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail” (NKJV).

When you feel “burned out” and need a break, visit Leoni and let the “God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NKJV).

By Laurie Trujillo

Two Become One

Lake Perris and Perris 5th Street churches have joined together as the Perris Seventh-day Adventist Community Church. Although the Executive Committee of Southeastern California Conference (SECC) officially voted for the churches to merge on April 22, 2020, the inauguration program was held on January 25, 2023, to initiate their fellowship as one church.

“I love the way we plan, work, and worship together. Our cultures are learning to love, respect, and understand one another,” said Loida Bernard, an elder at Perris Community.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on the front steps of the Lake Perris site, symbolizing the new congregation’s integrity and role in the community. The Perris Community church has set goals to mingle and network within the community and to become a visible figure to assist its citizens through their services, resources, and ministries, including Bible study, a community food bank, the Harvest Festival, health clinics and fairs, women’s ministry, homeless outreach, VBS, and prayer groups.

During the program, a brief history of both churches was presented. Robert Edwards, SECC vice president for Black Ministries, engaged the church members in a responsive covenant of unity, which established a vow for members to be one in service, one in church family, and one in Christ as the Son and Father are one. Jonathan Park, SECC president, presented a powerful message entitled “A MUST with a Fresh Start.” He cautioned the members that in order to have a successful church we MUST possess the power of the Holy Spirit abiding with us daily. The music of the Inland Empire Filipino Church Ensemble and the former praise team of Perris 5th Street resounded in the sanctuary as voices were lifted to God in songs of praise.

Through the power of many prayers, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the work of pastors, members, and conference workers, the Lake Perris and the Perris 5th Street churches are now one congregation, sharing the gospel message with the community of Perris.

By Dorothy Washington

LEFT: City Mayor Vargas (left) presents a Certificate of Recognition to the church (with Mario Perez). RIGHT: The praise team lifts their voices in song. TOP: SECC officers and Perris church leaders gather for the ribbon cutting.

ABOVE: Amy Lou enjoys the graduation lunch celebration.

LEFT: Left to right: Shirley Tan Injo, Daniel Injo, Lily Diehl, Hans Diehl, Tara VinCross, Mike Leno.

“You-Turn” Turns Lives Around

On Sunday, March 5, 2023, at Azure Hills church, 84 graduates were awarded certificates for completing the You-Turn Wellness Program.

For nine weeks, attendees learned how to arrest and reverse common killer diseases through lifestyle medicine. The principal presenter, Hans Diehl, a professor at Loma Linda University, has a passion for spreading a message of health and hope through simple lifestyle changes.

Community participants benefited from this program in many ways, including weight loss, lowered cholesterol, reversing diabetes, and a reduction in the stage of chronic kidney disease. This was done by following a whole food, plant-based diet that included exercise and adequate sleep, as well as the support of YouTurn coaches and fellow attendees. The testimonies at graduation were moving, and many people shed tears over the changes they’ve experienced in their lives.

One man shared, “My doctor was always giving me the bad news that my health was going down. I never felt like I knew what to do about it until now.”

Shirley Tan Injo, Daniel Injo, and Ernie Medina are doctors and the coordinators of this program. They were excited to see the results. These three, plus other health professionals, were available in weekly panels, and attendees were able to ask questions about their health. Participants also learned how to prepare healthy food and enjoyed three cooking demonstrations. Starla and Michael Leno, associate pastors at Azure

Hills, prepared worship talks that connected spiritual and physical health.

An attendee commented: “I just wanted to reach out to let you know how much I was blessed by the atmosphere and the people at your church. I believe what emanated to me is love.… I often felt the love that exists at your church. People were so kind. So, I just wanted to say thank you."

“My heart is overjoyed at the success of the You-Turn Program,” said Tara VinCross, senior pastor of Azure Hills church. “The education, support, and transformation we’ve witnessed has been incredible. We give thanks for all the dedicated volunteers and participants who made this possible.”

Already community guests and church members are asking when the next Health Ministries event will be taking place.

By Keturah Reed

SCC Welcomes Geoffrey Sewell as Senior Youth and Young Adult Ministries Director

As a physician by profession, Geoffrey Sewell found himself enjoying early retirement when he received the call to serve in the Southern California Conference (SCC) as the Senior Youth and Young Adult Ministries Director.

The call came, as Sewell recalled, “not just from any place, but in the very conference where my mother lives, and the very conference where my brother lives, and the very conference where I grew up, so I don’t think that’s an accident.”

The call was an answer to prayer. Sewell had spent recent years living in Hawaii, deeply involved in his job while also taking care of his wife’s parents during

a critical time. After his wife’s parents passed away, he began wondering what God had in store for the future. His mother had a stroke five years ago, and his heart longed to be closer to her and his other family members. “Then I started praying, ‘Lord, I’d really like to spend more time with mom,’” he recalled. He and his family had spent decades in Hawaii, where he served in a healthcare organization for many years and was very involved in the local church in a variety of positions, including head elder, Pathfinder director, and more.

By December 2022, Sewell had just earned his Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry degree at Andrews University and was supporting Aiea church in Hawaii, all the while wondering what God’s next steps were for him. “I wasn’t sure which pathway God wanted, but over a series of months, it became clear God wanted me to serve here,” he reflected.

His career as a doctor lends a unique perspective to his ministry. With years of experience hosting service projects and facilitating impactful partnerships in the context of healthcare, Sewell’s experience is a great fit for mission in the SCC territory. “What might we do in the Southern California basin to bring the love of Christ to people in a missional-minded way?” he wondered.

While in Hawaii, he experienced intra-organization collaboration across the islands. “Freeways and traffic might be just like water between islands,” he said, as he anticipates working within the complex territory here in SCC.

While Sewell has a wealth of experience, he brings an open heart and mind geared toward teamwork. “One of the things I love to do is mentor, and I love to teach, and I love to develop others,” Sewell said. “First and foremost, I want to lift up Jesus so that He draws everybody and we know Him for the beautiful and wonderful Savior that He is.”

Visit https://scc.adventist.org/gs to learn more about Sewell.

By Lauren Lacson

Geoffrey poses for a Christmas 2022 photo at the Aiea church with his wife and daughters. (Left to right) Katie, Geoffrey, Esther, and Elisabeth.

Geoffrey Sewell

PHOTO: GEOFFREY SEWELL

Whittier Church Ministry Shares the Gospel Message

Through Music and Sign Language

The ways we praise God come in many forms—prayer, reflecting on Scripture, sharing testimony, and serving others are just a few. With the understanding that worship is not limited to one method, the Hands of Praise ministry at Whittier church was created to help people connect with God on a deeper level through music and sign language.

This ministry was formed in 2019 after Whittier church member Kimberly Matthews was asked by her nieces and nephew to teach them to sign to the song I Can Only Imagine. Then, a few more young ladies at the church asked to be taught. This inspired Matthews to start a more formal practice, and she asked her cousin, Hillorie Tambaoan, to co-lead.

Both Matthews and Tambaoan are members of Mere Image, Whittier’s longtime music ministry. Though not fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), Matthews has been signing to music since middle school and would often accompany Mere Image’s performances in ASL.

After the group was created, Hands of Praise’s first few performances were in November and December 2019. When covid pandemic lockdowns began in March 2020, the group took a break from practice and live performances. This year, Hands of Praise has started performing again at Whittier church and at

other locations, such as La Sierra University church.

Now that the group is performing again, practice takes place whenever members can fit it in, often between Sabbath School and the church service.

“One of our positive challenges is that our church is very active in ministry,” Matthews shared. “People who want to participate in this ministry also want to participate in everything else.” Because it can be hard to get the entire group together every time, the ministry has an open-door policy. “They can come when able to, and if you can’t, it’s OK,” Matthews added.

Many of the members are in high school or college, which has given Matthews and Tambaoan an opportunity to mentor the young ladies and equip them for leadership.

“We always start and end our practices with prayer, and we talk about what’s going on in their lives,” Matthews said. “Hillorie and I try to set good examples for these young ladies. It’s been great for us as a group and for them to minster in this way.”

Matthews hopes that through this ministry, others can see that there are a multitude of ways to praise God.

“I pray that this is something that will inspire others to ministry,” Matthews said, “in whatever ministry God is calling them to do.”

By Araya Moss

LEFT: Members from Mere Image and Hands of Praise are pictured together after a joint performance.

ABOVE RIGHT: Hands of Praise members practice sign language for My World Needs You by Kirk Franklin. BELOW RIGHT: Hands of Praise and Mere Image perform Lamb Has Overcome together during this year’s Easter celebration.

PHOTOS: ARAYA MOSS

Central California Conference

Soquel Camp Meeting, taking place from July 13-22, 2023, is a 10-day event hosted every year by the Central California Conference. It is known globally for its spiritfilled revival atmosphere. This year's camp meeting features an incredible lineup of speakers, including Jose

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Classified ads must be sent with payment to the Recorder office. Display ads should be arranged with the editor (recorder@adventistfaith.com).

Classified Rates

$70 for 50 words; 75 cents each additional word. Display rates (full color only): back cover, $4,200; full page, $3,800; 1/2-pg., $2,200; 1/4-pg., $1,200; 1/8-pg., $700; $160 per column inch.

Information

The Pacific Union Recorder is published 12 times per year with a circulation of approximately 75,000. For more information about advertising, please email to recorder@ adventistfaith.com.

Upcoming Deadlines

These are the advertising deadlines for the Recorder. Your local conference news deadlines will be earlier.

July: June 8 • August: June 30

Contributions

The Recorder pages are assigned to the local conferences, colleges, and health care institutions, and all content comes through the communication departments in those organizations. If you have a news story/idea, calendar announcement, etc., please contact your local communication department. See the masthead for contact information. Want tips for writing for us? See www. dailywritingtips.com/the-art-of-writing-news.

Recorder Membership

The Pacific Union Recorder is provided as a free service to members of the conferences that are part of the Pacific Union Conference (Arizona, Hawaii, Northern California, Central California, Southern California, Southeastern California, and Nevada-Utah). Each conference maintains the list of members, based on the reports from their churches. If you would like to make a change to your subscription (name, address, cancellation), please contact your local conference. The staff of the Recorder does not have access to the circulation lists, other than the paid subscriptions.

Cortes, Richie Halversen, and John Boston. For more information, check the Events page online at https:// www.cccadventist.org/campmeeting.

La Sierra University

Graduation 2023. Commencement weekend 2023 will be held June 16-18. Conferring of degrees will take place Sunday, June 18 at 8 a.m. on Founders’ Green. For details, visit https://lasierra.edu/ graduation/.

Wind Ensemble Concert featuring Dr. Elvin Rodriguez, piano, and Ednaldo Alves, clarinet, will be held Sunday, June 4 at 4 p.m. at Hole Memorial Auditorium. Admission is free. For further information, email music@lasierra.edu or call 951785-2036.

The La Sierra Report. Stay in the know and sign up to receive The La Sierra Report, an e-newsletter of the university’s interesting news and events. To subscribe, send your email address and subscription request to pr@lasierra.edu.

Pacific Union College

Mountaintop “Farewell” Concert, Saturday, June 3, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy a repertoire of various gospel pieces featuring vocal soloists and instrumentals from both Pacific Union College alumni and students at Dauphinee Chapel. For more information, call 909344-8563 or visit puc.presence.io/event/mountaintopfinal-concert.

Paulin Center for the Arts Spring Recital, Sunday, June 4, 11 a.m. Developing musicians of all ages will present their work from the past quarter on a variety of instruments: guitar, piano, voice, violin, and cello. The event takes place in Paulin Recital Hall, and admission is free. A reception will follow.

Chorale & Vox Pro Musica Concert, Sunday, June 4, 7 p.m. PUC’s Department of Music invites everyone to their choral ensembles’ end-of-year concert featuring pieces in several styles, directed by Asher Raboy and Rachelle Berthelsen Davis. This concert takes place in Paulin Recital Hall with free admission. Reception will follow.

General Student Recital, Wednesday, June 7, 6 p.m. Music students who have studied piano, guitar, and voice throughout the year will present the final student recital of the year in Paulin Recital Hall. Admission is free.

Pacific Union College Commencement, Sunday, June 18, 9 a.m. Pacific Union College is pleased to invite you to graduation weekend for the class of 2023. The commencement ceremony will take place at the Maxwell Commons.

Classified Employment

Southeastern California Conference is seeking a full-time Associate Treasurer for Risk Management and General Services. This position works under the direction of the Conference Treasurer to plan, direct, and coordinate risk management programs with churches, schools, and the conference office to control risks and losses. This position also directs the general services of the conference, which includes moving, maintenance, warehouse, security, safety, and switchboard oversite, as well as custodial and grounds/ landscaping and security services contracts. For information and a copy of the job description, please contact the SECC Human Resources Department at humanresources@seccsda.org or 951-509-2351.

The Southeastern California Conference is seeking a full-time Early Childhood Center Director for the Mesa Grande Children’s Center (MGACC). The director is responsible for the overall operation of the center, which includes finances/budget, supervision of staff, compliance with conference and state regulations, and teaching. MGACC is licensed for up to 60 full-time students ages 2-5. Their website is https:// mgachildrenscenter.org/. For a full job description

or more information, contact Monique Trevino at the SECC Office of Education. Please send résumé, references, and cover letter to Monique. Trevino@seccsda.org by June 30, 2023

Holbrook Indian School is currently in need of a Food Service Director, Cafeteria Assistant, Maintenance Assistant, Grounds/Maintenance Assistant, and a Registrar/Administrative Assistant. These are paid positions. In addition, there is an opening for a volunteer married couple to fill the role of House Deans in an offcampus housing capacity at the Eagle's Nest. If you or someone you know are mission-minded and would like to serve Native American children, please see or share our jobs page at HolbrookIndianSchool.org/jobs.

Elmshaven Historian/Caretaker: The Pacific Union Conference is looking for two part-time Historians in Residence/Caretakers for Elmshaven, the Ellen G. White home in Napa Valley, California. Positions require a strong understanding of Ellen G. White's life and writings and the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Individuals must have good communication skills (Spanish speakers preferred) for guided tours and the ability to climb stairs and assist with grounds/ maintenance. Work schedule: one week on/off alternating with second team. Modest hourly pay with on-premises residence and utilities provided. Start date October 2023. E-mail résumé and cover letter to stephen.mayer@adventistfaith.com; call 805-413-7218.

Real Estate

PUC Commercial Space for Rent. Pacific Union College has commercial real estate space available for lease. The spaces are in various sizes and functionality and are available for inquiries. For additional information, please email Sam Heier at sheier@puc.edu.

For Sale

Retiring SDA optometrist in NW Calif. selling a very profitable practice. There are no other optometry, ophthalmology, or optician practices in this city or

June 2023 Sunset Calendar

county. Local Adventist church and K-8 school. The office is 5 blocks from an amazing coastline with surrounding beautiful forests, beaches, and rivers. 1250 sq. ft. office with a wonderful staff. If interested, please contact sinouye7@gmail.com.

Vacation Opportunities

Travel on a faith-based tour to Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Rome, or to Vietnam on a special cultural discovery tour with Dr. Carl Cosaert, New Testament Professor at Walla Walla University. To learn more about these inspirational tours that renew your faith, visit www. adventtours.org or email info@adventtours.org.

At Rest

Chiakowsky, Presley – b. April 13, 2011, Loma Linda, Calif.; d. April 4, 2023, Redlands, Calif. Survivors: father, Jason Chiakowsky; brother, Greyson; grandparents, LeeAnn Chiakowsky, Annette Warden.

Claveria, Reynaldo – b. Sept. 4, 1933, Manila, Philippines; d. March 22, 2023, Murrieta, Calif.

Survivors: wife, Loida Claveria; daughter, Eileen Killeen; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild.

Gaede, Waldena – b. July 5, 1945, Lodi, Calif.; d. April 7, Loma Linda, Calif. Survivors: sibling, Rodney Gaede.

Neergaard Caviness, Anne – b. Sept. 15, 1921, Loma Linda, Calif.; d. Feb. 13, 2023, Loma Linda, Calif. Survivors: daughter, Nianne Neergaard; son, Keith Neergaard; four grandchildren. Anne taught K-12 in Adventist schools in the Midwest, East Coast, and California. She also taught ESL classes at Pacific Union College.

Stern, Audrey Marie (Smith) – b. Oct. 14,1931, Modesto, Calif.; d. March 30, 2023, Napa, Calif. Survivors: daughter, Jodi Shavlik; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren. Audrey became a nurse in the mid ‘70s, working first at Redwood convalescent and then at the Veterans Home for the rest of her career.

Wheeler, David W. – b. April 23, 1943; d. Nov. 27, 2022. Survivors: wife, Sharon Wheeler; son, Alan Wheeler; daughter, Erin Wheeler. Career in health physics with state of California and University of California. Active in prayer ministry. Elder in San Andreas and Sutter Hill, Calif.

Woolard-Chiakowsky, Heather – b. May 18, 1975, Greenville, Tenn.; d. April 5, 2023, Redlands, Calif. Survivors: husband, Jason Chiakowsky; son, Greyson; sibling, Adrian Woolard; mother, Annette Warden.

“So there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.” Hebrews 4:9

HERE IT IS AT LAST!

Available for Ordering Online Now

Donald R. McAdams’ much anticipated Ellen White and the Historians: A Neglected Problem and a Forgotten Answer has been published by Oak & Acorn Publishing. The heart of the book is a paper that the author wrote almost 50 years ago. It presents compelling evidence that Ellen White did not just borrow paragraphs from historians to describe what she had already seen in vision. Ellen White’s Huss manuscript shows that her history of the Hussite Reformation in The Great Controversy came directly from the historian James A. Wylie. Ellen White followed his sequence, used his descriptions, copied his words, and repeated his historical errors. And then she gave her literary assistant Marian Davis the freedom to cut huge chunks from her manuscript and add significant additional history directly from Wylie.

Why, after all these years, publish this? The answer is embedded in the Adventist Church’s ongoing struggle to reconcile the evidence from history and science with the belief that Ellen White is authoritative in all matters. The book also reprints articles by McAdams and Ben McArthur and includes new essays by Ron Graybill and Eric Anderson, making it more than a close look at how Ellen White wrote history. It is also an account of the 20th-century church struggling to defend one of its founding myths—not the inspiration of Ellen White, but her authority in all matters. Available