September | October 2018 Southwestern Union Record

Southwestern Union

September | October 2018

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My Greatest Commission

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Committed: Living for God

Heart for 10 AService at SWAU

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Cultivating Spirituality in Your Family

His Will for My Family Discovering God's Plan and Purpose

Discovering God’s Plan and Purpose

His Will for My Family

September | October 2018 Vol. 117, No. 05

Features:

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4 Orchestrated from Above 8 Steadfast: My Greatest Commision 9 Committed: Living for God

The Record is an official publication of the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

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On the Record Education: A Heart for Service Wholeness: Time to Chill Equipping: Growing Together Little Readers: The Metal Spider

MANAGING EDITOR

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Southwestern Happenings Southwestern Union Southwestern Adventist University Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Oklahoma Conference Southwest Region Conference Texas Conference Texico Conference

ADVERTISING

EDITOR

Jessica L. Lozano, jlozano@swuc.org Kristina Pascual, kpascual@swuc.org LAYOUT/DESIGN

Reggie Johnson, rjohnson@swuc.org CIRCULATION

Tammy G. Prieto, tprieto@swuc.org Bradley Ecord, becord@swuc.org PROOFREADER

Caroline A. Fisher

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA Frances Alcorn, news@arklac.org OKLAHOMA Daniel Ortega, news@okla-adventist.org SOUTHWEST REGION Leslie Soupet, news@swrgc.org

47 Classified Ads 48 Announcements 48 Obituaries

TEXAS Jason Busch, news@txsda.org

Editor’s Note We tend to concern ourselves with our families and friends above all else, and our faith should exude to this immediate sphere of influence. We may find we worry about present outcomes or future issues. However, Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In this issue, we delve into discovering God’s plan and purpose for our families. What is His will for your family? How can you lead your loved ones to Christ? Do you remember how He’s worked in your life before? Can you trust Him to continue guiding your steps? Rather than worry, trust and submit your family to God. Let Him lead you and lead through you as you cultivate a spirit of Christ in your home.

Jessica Lozano Jessica Lozano

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TEXICO Debbie Márquez, news@texico.org SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY Darcy Force, dforce@swau.edu

Southwestern Union Conference P.O. Box 4000 Burleson, TX, 76097 Phone: 817.295.0476 Email: record@swuc.org

Our Mission: The Mission of the Southwestern Union is to equip and inspire the Southwestern Union territory with the distinctive Adventist message of hope and wholeness.

On the Record

His Will for My Family

Discovering God’s Plan and Purpose There are times when it is hard enough to discern God’s will for our ourselves, let alone help others know God’s will for their lives. There are times when I have been asked by a friend or family member how we can know

Larry Moore | President

God’s will or even if we can know His will. I believe we can know God’s will by following some steps that you may find helpful.

The first step would be prayer. Remember we do have direct access to God. Ask Him to show you His will or to give you direction in your life. Prayer puts us in tune with our heavenly Father who knows all things and wants to lead us.

Second, listen to the counsel of godly friends or relatives. They may possess insight you don’t have or have not yet developed. You may get conflicting counsel if you talk to more than one person. This process could give clarity to the situation or direction you are facing.

Third, watch for God’s providence to unfold before you. Often there is more than one way we could go, but sometimes God opens doors before us and closes other doors, thus making the choice clearer.

Finally, faith must play a part. Stepping out in faith is solid ground for the Christian. When we discern God’s will we must be willing to move on with Him by our side. Remember: God honors faith.

Recently, I heard a sermon given by one of my favorite preachers that caused me to contemplate deeply. Mark 6:1-5 speaks of Jesus coming into His own country and preaching in the synagogue on the Sabbath. The people in the audience marveled and were astonished, states the text, at His teaching, His wisdom and the mighty works He performed. They marveled because they knew Him; they knew His family and they were offended. Why was that? Could Jesus’ own family’s influence be one of the reasons for the people’s rejection of the message of Christ? Mark 6:4 says that Jesus’ response to the reaction of the people was, “A prophet is not without honor except in His own town, among His relatives and in His own home.”

Jesus’ life and teaching from youth to manhood was consistent with the Word of God. When He came back to the place of His upbringing, proclaiming the good news of God’s Word, it differed from the teachings and demonstrated religiosity of the Pharisees and scribes.

We are challenged by the fact that as followers of Christ, we have the opportunity and privilege to positively impact those in our neighborhoods and all who enter our circles of influence with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The appeal to all of us is to practice the presence of Jesus Christ in our homes and churches so that those outside of our walls can feel the warmth of our relationship with Christ and be receptive to the gospel message.

John Page | Treasurer

Buford Griffith, Jr. Executive Secretary

I’ve been reading a couple of books recently on habits. There are some habits that we create without even making a conscious effort. This can happen by just getting into a routine. Some of these are good habits and some can be bad habits in our lives. Our habits determine the outcomes of our lives. You can see how habits in athletes and soldiers can change their performance. By repeating a process over and over, the habit helps people to act naturally in a situation based on their habit training.

This can have a tremendous impact in our spiritual lives. How? 2 Corinthians 3:18 (MSG), states, “And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like Him.” We need to be very intentional about how we spend our day so that we can change our habits to focus on Jesus and lead our families and those around us to Him. We need to be very diligent in making plans to impact those around us. I recently I read about a man and his wife who decided to write out habit plans for their marriage. The practice of writing out the plans and then executing them helps establish the habit. Take time today and start a new habit that will help you and your family have a stronger relationship with Jesus.

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Aaron Thomas Photography

His Will for My Family

“Parental match.” It seemed impossible that those words were on the computer screen before her. Kisha Norris was floored.

She looked again. Following “parental match” were the words “highest probability.” It couldn’t be, she thought. These four words were telling her that, at age 37, she’d found her father. As her stomach turned, she thought, “Can this possibly be correct?”

Orchestrated from Above Kisha was born and raised in Texas.

She was an only child and a self-termed “military brat.” Although their family was small, it was filled with love. Her mom, Peggy Norris, was a no-nonsense person who had a long career in the Air Force.

She was strict, but she was also joyful and fun, and loved her daughter dearly. “We were very close; it was just me and my mom,” Kisha says. “She was always there, always supportive of everything I did. It was natural for me to pick up the phone and talk to her every day.”

Tragedy struck when Peggy was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Although she underwent surgeries and treatments, they were unsuccessful. Kisha was just 24 when Peggy died. “When my mom passed, I started to wonder if I was even important to God,” Kisha said. “I only had a mom— no siblings or father. How could my mom die? I spent years being angry at God.” Kisha had grown up in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She knew the Lord, but her loss and pain were were so deep, they had shaken her faith.

Kisha began her career in fundraising at Southwestern Adventist University.

Feeling untethered to Texas, she continued developing her career obtaining positions at Loma Linda University Health in Cali-

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His Will for My Family fornia and later at Oakwood University in Alabama. Not knowing anyone when she first moved, she felt isolated and suffered bouts of anxiety and depression. Slowly, she learned to trust and rely on God again. “I felt inadequate, but God always made it work,” Kisha explains. “God revealed Himself and blessed the things that were put in front of me. Through His actions, He told me, ‘It’s going to be hard, but I’m going to take care of you.’”

Kisha continued soul searching and growing her relationship with God. Ten years after leaving Texas, she felt God impressing her to return home and work on her doctorate. “I left my job in Alabama and moved back to Texas without any kind of explicit direction,” Kisha said. “I didn’t have a job, but my best friend invited me to stay with her in Keene, Texas.”

God provided not only for her immediate needs, but companionship as well.

Another friend encouraged her to try out a program that traces ancestry through DNA. “I’ve always wanted to do that— find out which part of Africa I’m from,” Kisha says. At her friend’s nudging, she submitted a sample and anxiously awaited the results. A few weeks later she logged on to explore the findings and noticed that the program included a network that matched her with potential relatives based on their shared DNA. She now sat in front of her computer, dumbfounded by the words “parental match.” Kisha sent a screenshot to her friend and asked her what she thought.

The friend pointed out that the site pro-

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vided a place to message other users and asked her whether she would contact her match. Kisha was unsure. “I like to examine every scenario before I jump into something,” Kisha explains. “But when I hung up the phone, I immediately messaged him. My subject line was ‘Wow.’” That night, Kisha received a reply: “‘Wow’ is an understatement.”

The user on the other side of the conversation was Carl Moore. “My first thought was, ‘This must be a mistake; I think I’d know,’” Carl said. “It threw me off. There were a few sleepless nights waking up and thinking, ‘How can this be?’”

Carl began an email correspondence with Kisha and she shared details about her family. Carl remembered Peggy and told Kisha that they had met through mutual friends when she was in the Air Force and he in the Army. He shared about his life since that time—his 24 years in the military, his three kids and his wife, Paulette.

“As we emailed back and forth, he asked if we could talk on the phone,” Kisha remembers. “I noticed his area code looked familiar and asked where he lived.” The Moores live outside of Killeen in Kempner, Texas, only two hours away from Kisha. “During our conversation, he asked to put me on speakerphone and introduced me to my stepmom. We all just had a ‘Wow, this is crazy’ moment.”

Paulette took to Kisha immediately.

“When I heard her voice, everything fell into place for me,” she said. “I knew at

that moment that God had surely been listening. She had this beautiful, warm personality in her voice. I could just feel it. She’s like a breath of fresh air.”

Paulette had been looking for that breath of fresh air since her retirement.

“I had in mind for us to maybe adopt a child who needed parents, who we could help out—not just financially, but emotionally and filled with love,” she explained. “But instead, we received this email—when you pray about things, sometimes God gives you what you asked for in a way that wasn’t exactly what you pictured.”

They kept talking by phone and one day decided to meet in person (left photo). “We decided to meet in Killeen and have lunch together. I can still remember my nervousness as I drove to meet my dad. As soon as I came into the restaurant, I saw him waving me over to the table. We smiled and said hello and then I was enveloped in a big hug by my stepmom and then by my dad and all my anxiety melted away,” Kisha remembers.

“To me, it was meant to be,” Paulette says. “I love her with all my heart.” Carl echoes the sentiment. “I have to rejoice because we share a bond, which is the blood,” he said. “She finds me staring at her sometimes because she and I are alike in so many ways. I enjoy having her around. I’m happy, and I hope she is happy also.”

Kisha is most definitely happy. In February, Carl and Paulette came to Keene to celebrate Kisha’s birthday with her (center photo). “I spent the first day of my 38th year with my dad and

HisHis WillWill forfor MyMy Family Life

bonus mom and it was just perfect. In God’s time He makes all things beautiful,” she says.

A few months later, in June, Kisha’s mom would have turned 70. “She was my first love,” Kisha says. “I miss her more than there are words to say, but I treasure all the memories we shared.”

That same month, God provided a sort of healing balm as Kisha celebrated her first Father’s Day with Carl and Paulette. The extended weekend celebration included a trip to Florida to meet many cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents (opposite, right photo). “It was hard to head back home,” Kisha remembers.

“They took me in and loved on me!”

Looking back she says, “As I saw or heard of incredible stories and miracles that God had done in other people’s lives, I wondered if I’d ever have a miraculous story of my own.” Kisha excitedly shares her story with anyone who asks. Carl and Paulette are still introducing her to relatives and friends.

The overall reaction is amazement and delight. Kisha, Carl and Paulette are all quick to credit God and His magnificent orchestration of events.

“Someone asked me, ‘Don’t you wish you knew your dad your whole life?’ But who I am now has been shaped by God,

and I’m thankful for the way He has ordained it. I have my years with my mom that I will cherish forever, and now I have these years to look forward to with my dad. Everyone is not on the same path. Mine is kind of roundabout, but now I know God was trying to show me that He cared about me all along, even when I was sure I was all alone. The only thing I can say about it is that it is a miracle.”

By Janelle Sundin with Kristina Pascual.

Kisha Norris is the Senior Director of Development at Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Texas.

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His Will for My Family

Steadfast

My Family, My Greatest Commision

I stared at the Instagram photo beneath my thumb and sighed. Another couple. Another engagement.

Another wedding. Another reminder of how single I am.

Sitting up on my bed, I tossed my phone to the side and stared at the ceiling. Somewhere between graduating from high school and advancing in my college degree, adulthood had snuck up on me, throwing my whole future off balance.

I had never really considered marriage before, never mind a family, yet with the constant reminders on social media the question could not be avoided–when would I get married?

Furthermore, with all the things I planned on doing with my life, would a family or a husband even fit?

Before I hit the age of 20, I could list to people reasons why I didn’t want to entertain the idea of marriage or family: Once I married and started a family of my own I would have less time to travel and all of my money would go to my chil-

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dren. I would have no alone time and it would be a distraction that would last forever, a lifetime of stress. Besides, being single meant I had no other responsibilities and could confidently go and do whatever God asked me to without worrying about another person. And in this way, I thought, I could affect more lives for God than I would if I had a family.

But after six years of working at a summer camp, my perspective began to change. The reasons I had listed were still valid in a sense, yet now held a different meaning. While starting a family may cut into my personal time, take a chunk out of my wallet, and add gray hairs to my head, it could also add meaning to my life. Camp allowed me to see how one’s influence, without word or action, could positively change lives for the better. Not only was I able to set an example, be a friend or a confidant to these campers, I was also affected by their trust, love and acceptance. This perspective added value to my life and caused a deeper appreciation for starting a family of my own. I began to long for that completion in my life and soon realized that family wasn’t a distraction from the life God wanted me to lead, but rather might allow me to serve in another way, a more personal way.

Marriage, love and family suddenly became an important necessity instead of a far-off dream, but I am nowhere close to being able to check that off my bucket list. I still have goals and aspirations that I want to accomplish, but just because a family, at least one of my own, isn’t close to becoming a reality for me at the moment, doesn’t mean it isn’t on my radar. With all my friends falling in love, getting married and starting a family of their own, I am forced to sit down and think about the word “family” seriously.

For me, marriage is more than just finding a partner and settling down. It’s more than having children and raising them to be independent, successful, good people. Marriage is a lifestyle choice, a commitment and a contract. The moment I choose to marry and raise a family of my own, I am ending a chapter in my life and beginning another. No longer am I the priority in my life; my family takes precedence. I look out for what’s best for the group instead of putting my wants and needs as number one. Serving God when it comes to my family is more than just raising them as Christians and taking them to church; it is creating a bond with my kids and husband. It’s allowing my home to be a Heaven on earth where peace and love abound. I see my family becoming my immediate mission field and greatest joy.

By Julena Allen. Allen is a senior communication major at Southwestern Adventist University. She’s worked at Camp Yorktown Bay in Mountain Pine, Arkansas for six summers since 2012. This summer she worked in the camp office as the office assistant. She currently lives in Keene, Texas.

His Will for My Family

Committed

Finding New Purpose in Living for God

God persistently pursues us. Through a series of seemingly unrelated events, Bill Carlile’s faith journey demonstrates how the Lord seeks bring us to Him. Bill and his wife Randi, grew up in different denominations. However, when they married neither assisted or were involved in their churches.

Years into their marriage, Randi decided to go to the Adventist Fellowship Church in Tulsa for seminars. Bill noticed that after each sermon, his wife came back different. She was changing for the better. One day she said, “Bill, we’ve had a great life, great family, kids and I’ve never really asked anything of you, but I would like to ask you this one thing. Would you come to church with me?” Bill was a little reluctant, but he agreed. Bill thought he'd just sit in the back and be a "pew warmer," but God had other plans.

Bill immediately noticed something different about this church. Everyone greeted him as he walked in, then welcomed him with open arms as they sat and had breakfast together.

This was really unusual for Bill, a real departure from the religious experience he’d been used to his whole life.

Stephen Carlile was the pastor at that time, and while no relation to Bill, they did share the same last name. Little did Bill and Randi know that Stephen was also their dentist’s son!

Stephen’s sermon that night resonated with Bill and moved him to reconnect with the Lord. He continued regularly attending church with Randi, getting involved with Bible study groups and living his life for the Lord.

One night, Bill and Randi invited Stephen and his wife to their house for dinner and fellowship. After dinner Stephen spoke frankly with Bill. He reminded Bill that his family

looked up to him and they were waiting for him to make a decision about his faith. Stephen told him it was time to stand up and make a decision. Bill was taken aback. Agitated by what Stephen had said, he mulled over that conversation. The words had hit deep in Bill’s heart.

It was at that point that Bill decided it was time for him to give his life to Jesus and fully integrate into the Adventist faith. He was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist church with his supportive wife right by his side. Bill was blessed by the Lord with many brothers and sisters of the church, who welcomed him with open arms. God has made sure that even in the lowest points in his life, Bill never lacked a good thing.

Bill has become one of the most active members in his church, even holding many Bible study sessions at his home. He became a deacon and then an elder of Adventist Fellowship Church. Bill considers this move the wisest decision he's ever made. He sees Stephen as his brother, affirming he would do anything for his pastor friend. God is amazing and He does amazing things in people’s lives, just like Bill’s. Stephen refers to John 1:39 as his charge for inviting others to church: simply, come and see!

By Kyle Hines. Hines is a junior communication major at Southwestern Adventist University and a communication intern for the Southwestern Union. Bill and Randi Carlile live in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Bill is a healthcare financial analyst and Randi is the CEO of the Carlile family.

They are members of the Adventist Fellowship Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

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Education

A Heart For Service Southwestern Celebrates 125 Years

By Makala James, Writer and Class of 2015 Southwestern Adventist University Graduate

From the early years of Keene Industrial Academy, when President Cassius B. Hughes dug through Texas briars to build the first school room, to the current construction of a new nursing building where students, staff, faculty and alumni signed the final steel beams, caring people have been at the heart of Southwestern Adventist University. This year, Southwestern is celebrating 125 years of service.

The many people who make Southwestern unique are also to be celebrated.

Southwestern was founded in 1893.

The school opened with 56 pupils arriving from all over Texas. As President Hughes welcomed students, he not only put them to work in class and industry, but also welcomed them into his home for Bible study. Hughes made students feel at home in the Texas wilderness and also baptised several students. “He was a true representative of what God requires of His servants, a Christian

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gentleman,” writes C. N. Woodard in the book Lest We Forget.

Over time, technology improved, the campus grew and an important change needed to take place. The year was 1966 and Southwestern was transitioning from a junior college to a senior college.

Academics required a deeper focus and guidelines needed to be set. Yet in all this, President Ed C. Wines believed that one of the most important qualifications of a good teacher was a willingness to help students, both in and out of the classroom.

Southwestern continues to be full of well-qualified faculty and staff. Small classroom sizes give professors and students ample opportunity to get to know each other. Andrew Woolley, Ph.D., became a professor of English at Southwestern in 1978. He retired in 2017.

In nearly 40 years of service, Woolley found that this dynamic truly made a

difference in teaching higher education. “I certainly knew my students well because my class sizes were small,” says Woolley. “It enabled me to keep up with students and their families. You know students’ names and lives, what they’re taking and what they’re doing, and are able to help them in ways you may not otherwise have been able to.”

Bonds created in the classroom are part of the reason why Woolley remained as a professor for many years.

Then, when children of his students began to appear in the classroom, generational connections formed. “There’s that continuity that creates a family atmosphere and so forth,” says Woolley.

Bonds created on campus are often as influential to students as classroom studies. They help students feel at home and also help prepare them for the future in a practical sense. Vice President for Student Services James The is still affectionately known as “Dean The” to students. He started working at Southwestern as the Dean of Men in 2001.

“Dean The’s intuition and care for students is beyond real,” says Buster Swoopes, class of 2006. “It was a good learning opportunity to serve under him.”

Swoopes worked as a Resident Assistant under The while studying theology.

During that time, Swoopes learned from The to understand people, and look for signs that people needed help or intervention. That experience helped Swoopes develop as a pastor. This fall, Swoopes will begin his first semester as a Professor of Religion at Southwestern.

Swoopes will take part in the 125 year tradition of genuine care that faculty and staff of Southwestern exhibit. As the University evolves and changes, the sincere service of individuals will continue to beat at the heart of Southwestern.

Wholeness

Time to Chill Unplug and Connect with Those Who Matter Most

By Dr. Robert Gardner, Texico Conference Health Ministries Director In today’s world there are few things more terrifying than being “out of contact.” Since the introduction of the World Wide Web on August 6, 1991, smart devices like phones, TVs, cars and even smart homes are common place.

Smart devices are here to stay and with this miraculous intrusion, we recognize we risk losing valuable intangible items such as quiet time, personal reflection, meaningful interaction with others, and perhaps the most important, quality time with God the Creator.

Hundreds of scientific studies are beginning to expose the dark side of these devices. The effort of modern technology to save us time and make us more informed, has opened Pandora’s box of health issues. A report from Common Sense Media found that 50 percent of teens admitted they were addicted to their cell phones. Seventy-eight percent of teens check their devices at least hourly and 59 percent of parents feel their teens are addicted to their cell phones. Middle school kids spend as much as eight to nine hours with electronic devices each day.

The World Health Organization now has a list of mental disorders associated with obsessive video gaming. Connections have been found with suicide, attention deficit disorders, depression, violent behavior, bullying, anxiety, greed enhancement, isolationism and dismantling of the family social structure. This phenomena is world-wide, and unfortunately God’s people are caught in the tsunami of distracting electronic tidal waves. How does one escape the rip-currents of wasted time, social disconnection and loss of inner peace? Here are a few ideas that may help.

Why not have an “electronic-free” day? It could start with as little as a few

hours a day of turning off smartphones, tablets, watches, computers, TVs, etc., and working your way up to a whole day (Sabbath is an excellent time) and even a whole week. Sound doable? Be encouraged by Phillipians 4:23: “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” There is no such thing as a vacuum; if you take something away, you must replace it with something better. If Sabbath is that special day for an “electronic fast” then consider enjoying the quiet of nature, a hike, a bicycle ride, a picnic, taking pictures of nature, calling a missing member or friend, visiting someone who rarely gets visits, writing a letter with real paper and pen to someone special or hurting, visiting the sick and shut-in, playing Bible games, researching a Bible theme, joining a small Bible study group, having a poster contest, drawing or painting a picture, visiting free zoos, playing music

and singing songs, swimming or dipping in a cool pool, passing out tracts, participating in Health Fairs, caroling, visiting nursing home, feeding the homeless, reading Bible stories to neighborhood children and so many other joyful things. Let your imagination run wild with healthy and spirit-filled activities.

Romans 8:38-39 says, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Don’t let the habit of electronic device usage separate you from God who longs to spend time with you.

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Equipping

Growing Together 12 Tips to Help Cultivate Spirituality in Your Family

Every family is unique and has its own dynamics and needs. Family worship may be quite different in your home than somebody else’s. Perhaps you teach your children about biblical heroes through felt figures that they move around a felt board. Maybe your family uses drama to act out biblical tales. Your family might prefer to sing or read together as part of growing together spiritually.

Different approaches or perspectives can inspire us to explore a variety of ways to spend time with God and spend time together. Personal spiritual growth doesn’t result from cookie-cutter methods, and neither does family growth. We find inspiration in the habits, traditions and experiences of others. As styles and approaches evolve, discover relevant ways to minister to your family. Several leaders from across the Southwestern Union territory share tips that have worked for their families and their ministry. Check them out and see what would benefit your family!

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GIVE THEM YOUR PRESENCE

Parents, your presence is far more valuable than any gift! The gift of being present exceeds all other gifts.

Walter Martinez Family Life Ministries, Oklahoma

FORM SPIRITUAL FAMILIES

Psalm 128:1-4 says, “Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to Him. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the Lord.” The Psalms indicates that to be God’s kind of parent, a parent must be God-fearing: receive divine instruction (Psalm 25:12); characterized by integrity and faithfulness (Job 2:3); delight in worshipping God (Revelation 14:7).

Carmen and Buford Griffith, Jr. Family Ministries, Southwestern Union

PRACTICE SELF-CARE

Sometimes we feel like a hamster running on a wheel, trying to keep up with life. With three kids, work, a home to manage and extra-curricular activities, I often find myself running pretty fast. British psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman reports that the overall pace of life has increased by 10 percent worldwide since the mid-90s. Recently, I came across the concept of self-care, the idea that to function as the best version of ourselves we need to set aside time to take care of ourselves. At its core, selfcare is all about being good stewards of our bodies, minds and souls. Jesus gave us the best example of self-care and took time for Himself to rest, pray and spend time with His Father. We too can do the same and as a result be refreshed to focus on ministering to our families and others. Like the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

Debbie Márquez Communication, Texico

Equipping COMMUNICATE WELL

Create a safe environment for good and effective communication. Effective communication involves sharing information with another person so that what is being said is understood by that person. There is no criticism, name-calling or fault-finding. A safe space is a place where everyone’s opinion counts with the feeling of being understood, even when disagreements occur. Ephesians 4:29 states, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Carmen and Buford Griffith, Jr. Family Ministries, Southwestern Union

HAVE FAMILY FILM NIGHT

When used wisely, movie nights can be a powerful opportunity to draw moral and spiritual lessons that your children will never forget. Use websites such as Dove. org to screen movie content before exposing your family to any movie. Always ask questions after the movie, such as: What is the message of this movie? Do you agree or disagree with it? Why? What in the movie inspired you to be a better person?

Was there anything in the film’s content that was questionable or not Christ-like?

Ruber and Ketty Leal Family Ministries, Texas

BE A GODLY FATHER FIGURE

From a man’s perspective, parenting is often challenging to our perceived manhood, and we parent with a sense of entitlement, of power and with an authoritarian attitude. Ephesians 6:4 approaches parenting this way: “Fathers, don’t exasperate your children by coming down hard on them; take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master” (MSG). The use of power and punishment is external force, and sometimes can come from embarrassment, anger or a challenge to our manhood. God created your child with a heart and a conscience. Allow God to win the child’s heart to Jesus, discipling them through God’s love, as displayed on the cross.

W. S. Lee Family and Men’s Ministries, Southwest Region

ENCOURAGE SINGLE PARENTS

Single parents must work to create a safe and trustworthy support system for themselves and their children. Find intentional ways to collaborate with single-parent families in ministries that will bless both parent and child. As a single parent, seek out healthy role models for your sons and daughters. It is important for children to see and learn from both male and female spiritual leaders as they mature into spiritual adults.

Jessica Lozano Communication, Southwestern Union

CREATE A FAMILY EBEN-EZER

Families are facing some challenging times and many spiritual battles. In 1 Samuel 7, the Israelites were under attack by the Philistines, but God heard and answered Samuel's prayer and gave them the victory. They set up a stone on the battle site and called the monument Eben-Ezer, which means "stone of help." Invest your time and resources in creating a "memorial stone" for your family. Gather items that will remind them how God helped the family, just as He helped the Israelites. The memorial will jog the memory of each family member and help create a spiritual bond. Be creative and have fun!

Anysia Archibald Women’s Ministries, Southwest Region

LEARN THROUGH SONG

My young daughters loved taking a midday break with me in the rocking chair, to relax and be held close for a few minutes while we sang songs together. I would choose hymns with meaningful stories or scripture songs.

These stories in song and Bible texts have forever become a part of their core being. Gaining spiritual insight and Bible memorization is made easy through song. My grandchildren now enjoy singing together. As mere infants, they can and will learn the words, but more importantly the Word that will sustain them for all eternity.

Frances Alcorn Communication, Arkansas-Louisiana

FOCUS ON CHARACTER

Character growth was more important than school or chores in our home.

We would focus on correcting bad attitudes, character issues or relationship problems first. Afterward, the schooling or work went much smoother. Often I would send my children to their room to pray and I’d go pray for wisdom and softened hearts. I’d check on them. If their eyes were defiant, I’d let us both have more time to pray. When their eyes were softened and receptive we’d talk and pray. We got more accomplished when they had happy hearts than we would have with sour spirits.

Julia Shires Women’s Ministries, Oklahoma

LISTEN CAREFULLY

If we want our children to listen to us and take us seriously, we need to take the time to listen to them. We started the habit of snuggling with each of our three children separately for five minutes before they went to sleep at night. They could talk about anything and ask any questions. They loved this time so much they were willing to go to bed 45 minutes early so they could have 10 minutes alone with us. This is a favorite memory and as adults they still like to share their thoughts with us.

Julia Shires Women’s Ministries, Oklahoma

HAVE BREAKFAST BIBLE TIME

Morning worship with your children can seem like a hassle to get in a time frame. However, keeping it short and being intentional about when you start and end makes it doable and memorable.

We started at the breakfast table with a prayer. Everyone got to name 10 things they were thankful for (grateful hearts are happy hearts), pick a text from the “bread of life box” and repeat it. Pray at the end of breakfast for a great day with the Lord’s protection.

Sylvia Downs Communication, Arkansas-Louisiana

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 13

Little Readers

The Metal Spider

Knowing Who Your True Friends Are

H

ave your friends ever told you to do something you weren't comfortable with? Do you get a feeling deep in your gut telling you not to do it, but you feel if you don't then your friends won't like you? I have and I learned a painful lesson about peer pressure when I was seven years old.

Recess had just started at my grade school and the playground was full of swings, slides, and monkey bars galore!

None were as feared however, as the dreaded jungle gym, also known as the “Metal Spider” by my classmates. The dome-shaped gym stood only eight feet off the ground, but it felt so much higher when you only stood three feet from the dirt. I tried my best to avoid the Metal Spider as much I as I could, for fear of getting hurt. Until one day, my friends dared me to climb to the top and dangle upside down from my legs. At first I said no, but they continued to push me and call me names. I gave in to my friends’ pressure and climbed to the peak of the Metal Spider.

I took one deep breath before I closed my eyes and leaned back, legs arched over the bars. I opened my eyes and what did I see? I saw myself suspended in midair, looking down at the ground from so high up...

For about three seconds! My legs slipped off the Metal Spider and in what felt like the speed of light, I fell to the hard, dirty ground, hitting face first, nearly breaking my nose! I got up in tears and went straight to the school nurse. Thankfully, I didn't break anything!

I did, however, learn a valuable lesson that day about peer pressure and to listen to God when He is speaking to you.

Galatians 1:10 says, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” You will have many friends in life. Some will be good influences and some will not. We may never know who is or isn't our friend until it's too late. However, there's one friend that will always stay by your side forever and always have your best interests in mind. That friend is God. Always listen to what God tells you and ignore those who tell you otherwise. When you always listen to God, you can never make a wrong decision.

By Kyle Hines Southwestern Union Communication Intern

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Little Readers

Peer Pressure & Self-Esteem

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1. Treat others with God’s ____.

2. Have faith and ____ in yourself.

3. Special, one and only—just like you.

5. ____ up when somebody is being picked on.

8. Self-____is confidence in your own worth.

10. You have nothing to ____ to anyone but God. 11. ____ firm for what you believe

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Across 4. Seek only the approval of ____.

5. Be ____ to other’s feelings.

6. All are ____ in God's sight 7. Someone who is your age or in your class.

9. You are a ____ of God 10. An attempt to persuade you to do something.

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11

Created on TheTeachersCorner.net Crossword Maker

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4 . One who lo ves yo u just as yo u are.

5 . With a caring and understanding attitude.

6 . All are _____ in Go d's sight 7 . So meo ne who is yo ur age o r in yo ur class.

9 . Yo u are a _____ o f Go d 10 . So mething that makes yo u want to act a certain way.

1. Always treat o thers with this.

2. The key to o verco ming peer press 3. Special, o ne and o nly—just like yo 5 . _____ up when yo u see so methin 8. Self10 . Yo u have no thing to ____ to anyo 11. _____ firm fo r what yo u believe

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people?

If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Galatians 1:10 Down, 1: Love, 2: Confidence, 3: Unique, 5: Speak, 8: Esteem, 10: Prove, 11: Stand Across, 4: God, 5: Sensitive, 6: Precious, 7: Peer, 9: Child, 10: Pressure

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 15

Southwestern Happenings

September Events: 1-3

19-21

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Arkansas Youth Fest, Camp Yorktown Bay, Mt. Pine, Ark. SDowns@arklac.org

Southwestern Union: Your Best Pathway to Health Free Medical/Dental Clinic, Fort Worth, Tex. PathwaytoHealthVolunteer.org

7-8

24-25

Texas Conference: Cowboy Camp Meeting North Texas Jellystone Park, Burleson, Tex. TexasAdventist.org

North American Division: EndItNow Online Summit On Abuse, EndItNowNorthAmerica.org

7-9

25

Oklahoma Conference: Church Leadership Training, Wewoka Woods Adventist Center, Wewoka, Okla. OKAdventist.org

SWAU: Larry R. Moore Nursing and Administration Building Grand Opening Southwestern Adventist University Campus SWAU.edu

7-9

28-30

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Pathfinder Leadership, Camp Yorktown Bay, Mt. Pine, Ark. ArkLacsda.org

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Teen Leadership, Camp Yorktown Bay, Mt. Pine, Ark. SDowns@arklac.org

13-16

28-30

North American Division: Conscience & Justice Council, Houston Marriott South, Houston, Tex., CJCouncil.org

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Cowboy Camp Meeting, Bonnerdale, Ark. Arklacsda.org

14-15 Southwestern Union: Growing Together Leadership Summit, San Antonio Scenic Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church, TXYouth.org

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28-30 Texas Conference: Master Guide Camporee, Lake Whitney Ranch, Clifton, Tex. TXYouth.org

28-30 Southwestern Union: Cowboy & Biker Camp, Lone Star Camp, Athens, Tex., PDavid@swuc.org

Hello

Autumn!

October Events: 4-7

13-14

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Springtown Fall Round-Up Camp Meeting, Springtown, Ark. Arklacsda.org

Texas Conference: Hispanic Men’s Retreat Hoblitzelle Camp & Conference Center Midlothian, Tex. TexasAdventist.org

5-6 Southwestern Union: Growing Together Leadership Summit Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church TXYouth.org

12-14 Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Adventurer Family Camporee, Camp Yorktown Bay, Mt. Pine, Ark. Arklacsda.org

12-13 Texas Conference: Glad Reaper, Tyler Seventh-day Adventist Church TXYouth.org

19-21 Texas Conference: Adventurer Family Camp Lake Whitney Ranch Clifton, Tex. TXYouth.org

26-28 Arkansas-Louisiana Conference: Teen Prayer Conference, Camp Yorktown Bay, Mt. Pine, Ark. prayerpowerlab@gmail.com

26-28 Oklahoma Conference: Pathfinder Area Campouts OKAdventist.org

For more events and information, visit SouthwesternAdventist.org.

Southwestern Union News

Men’s Ministries Certification Fourth Annual Collaborative Event Trains 90 Men HOUSTON, TEX. – On July 27 and 28 the Southwestern Union sponsored the Fourth Annual Men’s Ministries Leadership Certification. This certification course was designed by the North American Division to equip local church leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead out in men's ministries in their communities. Over 90 men gathered at the Houston Central Seventh-day Adventist Church to initiate the first part of the certification process. On Friday night, Elton DeMoraes, D.Min., the Southwestern Union’s newly-elected vice president for ministerial, church ministries and men’s ministries, presented the biblical foundations of men’s ministry. He told

the participants that a successful men’s ministry will have three components: spiritual, relational and missional. As this was a bilingual event, Jose Rojas, pastor of the Baytown LaPorte Seventh-day Adventist Church and Baytown Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, provided live translation from English to Spanish.

On Sabbath, the groups met in different rooms to facilitate the learning process.

Several presenters from the Texas Conference and Southwest Region Conference assisted teaching a subject. Sergio Rodriguez, Hispanic men’s ministries director for the Texas Conference and Sean Harris, men’s ministries director for the Texas Conference, both pointed

out that after the weekend in Houston, the participants will have to complete different assignments throughout the year to be certified. Willie Lee, Jr., men’s ministries director for the Southwest Region Conference, observed that this was the first time the leadership certification was taken out of the Southwestern Union headquarters and agreed that the event was a total success. Plans are now underway to take this certification to the Arkansas-Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texico Conferences. By bringing this certification to other conferences, we hope to achieve our goal to have a men’s ministry in every church throughout our Southwestern Union territory.

Conscience and Justice Council 2018 Annual Convention on Justice and Equality BURLESON, TEX. – When a nation is challenged spiritually, morally, racially and economically, it signals a civilization that is in decline. The issues that confront the United States of America are very serious. Injustice and inequality can no longer endure the silence of people of faith. In showing empathy to those suffering from injustice, have we forgotten how to advocate? “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the

rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8,9.

The Conscience and Justice Council’s 2018 convention will be held Sept. 1316, 2018 at the Houston South Marriott Hotel in Houston, to address issues that face our country. Seventh-day Adventist leaders, along with active civil leaders, will address the biblical imperative in resolving conscience and justice issues.

The convention invites pastors, elders, public affairs and religious directors, social justice ministries and those interested in conscience and justice issues.

The Conscience and Justice Council encourages you to make a difference in changing our nation, one community at a time. Register at CJCouncil.org or call 1-800-328-0525.

By Buford Griffith, Jr. Southwestern Union Executive Secretary

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 17

Southwestern Union News

The North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY STATEMENT For Seventh-day Adventist Schools, 2018-2019 School Year

The Seventh-day Adventist Church, in all of its church schools, admits students of any race to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools, and makes no discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnic background, country of origin, or gender in the administration of education policies, applications for admission, scholarship or loan programs, and extracurricular programs.

A complete list of all academies and elementary/junior academies is listed below:

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Texas Conference Bentonville SDA School..........2522 SE 14th Street, Bentonville AR 72712 Colquitt Christian Academy....3217 Colquitt Road, Shreveport LA 71118 Ewing Adventist Jr. Academy..................... 709 Adventist Church Rd., Bonnerdale AR 71933 Greater New Orleans Christian Academy...............5220 Irving Street, Metairie LA 70006 Harrison SDA School....................................... 4877 Hwy. 392 West, Harrison AR 72601 Hot Springs SDA School..........401 Weston Road, Hot Springs AR 71913 Jones Creek Adventist Academy....................... 4363 Jones Creek Rd, Baton Rouge LA 70817 Little Rock Adventist Academy....................... 8708 Rodney Parham, Little Rock AR 72205 Ozark Adventist School.......21150 Dawn Hill East Rd, Gentry AR 72734 Springdale Adventist School.......................4001 W. Don Tyson Pkwy, Springdale AR 72762 Umpire Christian School............. 164 School Street, Umpire AR 71971

Academy

Ozark Adventist Academy.......................20997 Dawn Hill East Road, Gentry AR 72734

Oklahoma Conference

Ardmore Adventist Academy..................... 154 Beavers Academy Rd., Ardmore OK 73401 Bristow Adventist School............... 718 E. Jefferson, Bristow OK 74010 Heritage Adventist School....................... 20555 S. 4170 Road Unit B, Claremore OK 74017 Ketchum Junior Academy ..............35369 S. Hwy 82, Vinita OK 74301 Muskogee SDA Christian Academy............ 170 N. Country Circle Rd., Muskogee OK 74403 Parkview Adventist School...................4201 Martin Luther King Ave., Oklahoma City OK 73111 Pioneer Adventist Christian School.................... 1710 N. East Street, Guymon OK 73942 Tulsa Adventist Academy..............900 S. New Haven, Tulsa OK 74112

Southwest Region Conference

Alfred Booker Jr. Academy.....916 Richmond Drive, Alexandria LA 71301 Applegate Adventist Jr. Academy....................... #4 Applegate Circle, Round Rock TX 78680 Bethel Adventist School...................P.O. Box 660 Texarkana TX 75501 Emmanuel Adventist School..... 702 N. Cherry St., Hammond LA 70401 Excel Adventist Academy.........7950 W. Fuqua, Missouri City TX 77489 Martin Luther King Jr Christian Academy......... 4295 Prescott Court, Baton Rouge LA 70805 New Orleans Adventist Academy........................ 4500 Gawain Drive, New Orleans LA 70127 Shiloh Adventist School............2400 S. Maple St., Little Rock AR 72204 S.W. Adventist Jr. Academy.... 1600 Bonnie View Road, Dallas TX 75203

Adventist Christian Academy of TX...................... 3601 S Loop 336 E, Conroe TX 77301 Burleson Adventist School ............. 1635 Fox Lane, Burleson TX 76028 Burton Adventist Elementary School ...............4611 Kelly-Elliott Road, Arlington TX 76017 Cleburne Adventist Christian School............. 111 Meadowview Drive, Cleburne TX 76033 Coggin Memorial School.... 6645 Downing St., Corpus Christi TX 78414 Cypress Bend Adventist School........ 2997 FM 728, Jefferson TX 75657 Dallas Christian Academy....4025 N. Central Expressway, Dallas TX 75204 Ft. Worth Adventist Jr. Academy.................3040 Sycamore School Rd, Ft. Worth TX 76133 Garland Christian Adventist School............. 1702 E. Centerville Road, Garland TX 75041 Joshua Adventist Multi-Grade School ................. 1912 Conveyer Rd., Joshua TX 76058 Katy Adventist Christian School..... 1913 East Avenue, Katy TX 77493 Keene Adventist Elementary .................. 302 Pecan, Keene TX 76059 Killeen Adventist Jr. Academy.........3412 Lake Road, Killeen TX 76543 Knowledge Seekers Christian School.............. 1471 W. Corporate Dr., Lewisville TX 75067 Laredo Adventist Christian School...................... 3108 Columbia Dr. Laredo TX 78046 Maranatha Adventist School....2526 Goliad Road, San Antonio TX 78223 North Dallas Adventist Academy ..................... 302 Centennial Blvd., Richardson TX 75081 San Marcos Adventist Jr. Academy .P.O. Box 801, San Marcos TX 78667 Scenic Hills SDA Christian School........................ 11223 Bandera Rd., San Antonio TX 78250 South Texas Christian Academy....7001 N. Ware Rd., McAllen TX 78504 Stonehill Christian Academy........... 900 E Pecan St. Ste. 300 PMB 256, Pflugerville TX 78660 The Oaks Adventist Christian School.....................11735 Grant Road, Cypress TX 77429 Triangle Adventist Christian School ..... P.O. Box H, Groves TX 77619 Tyler SDA School............................P.O. Box 131210, Tyler TX 75713

Academies

Burton Adventist Academy.... 4611 Kelly-Elliott Rd., Arlington TX 76017 Chisholm Trail Academy.....................P.0. Box 717, Keene TX 76059 North Dallas Adventist Academy...................... 302 Centennial Blvd., Richardson TX 75081 South Texas Christian Academy....7001 N. Ware Rd., McAllen TX 78504

Texico Conference

Abilene Jr. Academy............. 2542 E. Overland Trail, Abilene TX 79601 Adventist Academy of Santa Fe..... P.O. Box 28327, Santa Fe NM 87592 Crestview SDA Academy........ 6000 Ouray NW, Albuquerque NM 87120 El Paso Adventist Jr. Academy....................... 3510 George Dieter Dr., El Paso TX 79936 Lubbock Junior Academy...............P.O. Box 6277, Lubbock TX 79493 Sandia View Christian School..... 024 Academy Dr., Corrales NM 87048

Academy

Sandia View Academy...........65 Sandia View Lane, Corrales NM 87048

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Southwestern Union News

Growing Together

Creating Vibrant Intergenerational Relationships BURLESON, TEX. – Church leadership teams from the Southwestern Union are invited to the Growing Together Summits held Sept. 14-15 in San Antonio or Oct. 5-6 in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. #GrowingYoungAdventists (GrowingYoungAdventists.com) is an initiative of the North American Division (NAD) to encourage local churches to love next generations well. Each union has a set of representatives who will help move the initiative forward and introduce the program. The representative for the Southwestern Union is Texas Conference Associate Youth Director David Craig; A. Allan Martin of the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church is spearheading the initiative for the NAD. Pastors Guadalupe Montour and Benjamin Lundquist will teach core commitments

that draw younger generations into the vitality of church life and afford seasoned generations vibrant relationships and meaningful growth.

“Let’s dream and innovate together,” exudes Montour. “Churches need not grow cold and old; let’s grow together!” Montour is a certified speaker for #GrowingYoungAdventists and the associate pastor for Young Adult Ministry at the College View Seventh-day Adventist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. She has a degree in Theology and Religion from Atlantic Union College, where she also served Assistant Chaplain. In 2013, she joined the Southern New England Conference, serving in the Youth Ministries Department.

Lundquist is also a certified speaker for #GrowingYoungAdventists and one

of the leading voices in young adult ministry in the Adventist Church with over 20 years of ministry experience.

He is passionate about inspiring young adults to become growing followers of Jesus and leaders for His cause. He is a pastor, speaker and leadership trainer, and serves as Young Adult Ministries Director for the Oregon Conference and as Young Adult Ministry Coordinator for the NAD. Multi-generational teams from local churches are invited to register for either of the Growing Together Summits, gaining insights and developing practical strategies to make their church the best place for all ages to grow. Register at TXYouth.org/GrowingTogether.

By A. Allan Martin

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 19

Southwestern Adventist University News

The Heart of Evangelism Students Learn to Lead Others to Christ KEENE, TEX. – Theology students from Southwestern Adventist University experienced true mission work at the annual Field School of Evangelism this summer. They applied classroom skills to real-world situations as Bible workers and evangelists. As a result, students not only gained valuable career experience, but also gained a deeper desire to serve God and to trust in His power.

“It’s not my own power, but completely God’s power that matters,” said Eliab Quinones, class of 2019. “In Field School, I realized that I have to be completely reliant on who God is, and the power that He’s willing to give to those willing to be used as a tool.”

The Field School of Evangelism took place in Oklahoma City and neighboring areas. The Field School started with four weeks of Bible work and classroom lectures. Experienced evangelists, such as Mark Finley, and pastors teach the students how to run a successful evangelistic series. This year, Emanuel Baek,

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Oklahoma Conference evangelist, led out in Bible work visitations and evangelistic meetings.

During the last two weeks of Field School of Evangelism, students hosted an evangelistic series on their own. Each student presented 11 nights of evangelistic meetings, all across Oklahoma.

Reynaldo Arias, class of 2018, especially enjoyed preaching about the hope found in prophecy and end time events.

“Visitors come because they need some hope in their life,” says Arias. “I think the church needs to hear more about hope in end-time prophecies, not only the difficulties coming.”

In 2015, the Field School took place in San Antonio. A young man named Cristian Perez was introduced to Southwestern Religion Professor Bill Kilgore and TJ Sands, class of 2016.

Perez was at a crossroads in his life. He wanted to dedicate his entire life to God, but didn’t yet know how. He spoke with Sands about Southwestern, careers and

serving God. After that day, he decided to study theology at Southwestern.

Today, Sands is a pastor in Oklahoma, where this year’s Field School of Evangelism took place. Perez, class of 2019, led evangelistic meetings at Sands’ church.

“I love God’s word and sharing it with God’s people,” said Perez. “In Field School I’ve learned so much that I didn’t know before: what it takes to be a pastor, a leader, and endure something like this.”

Students must create a portfolio that includes attending church boards, working as assistant pastors, holding evangelistic meetings, etc. This helps with hiring and last year all theology graduates received a position in a church.

“We have a great and good God,” said Jonathan Aguilar, class of 2019. “Being able to take what I learned in Field School and apply it to my ministry is amazing. Building genuine relationships and genuinely caring for people is so important. I will cherish that lesson forever.”

By Makala Coleman James, SWAU ‘15

Southwestern Adventist University News

Singing Through Scandinavia University Singers 2018 Music Tour KEENE, TEX. – Trademarks of traveling: hours spent sleeping in the airport, jet lag, lost luggage and a multitude of other things; yet we’ll never regret a minute of it. As Southwestern Adventist University Singers, it is an honor for us to represent not just our University and community, but Christ, with all those we encounter along the way.

Throughout the first few weeks of May, our group of 36 traveled to sing across the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden and Finland. This was an experience like no other. The countries were beautiful, the people friendly and the concerts out of this world.

The first country we visited was Norway, where we were eagerly welcomed at Tyrifjord Videregående Skole, an Adventist academy near Oslo. We sang our first concert that Friday evening. Expecting only students, we were pleasantly surprised to see a number of surrounding community members in the audience. As we finished the concert, the people refused to leave until we sang two more songs. Finally, after singing as much as our vocal cords could take, we took a final bow and exited the small chapel. As we thanked the people for coming, one lady approached me, her eyes welling up with tears. “Tusen takk, tusen takk,” she said repeatedly. “You have brought me closer to heaven this evening than I have ever been before.” We hugged and for a

moment this stranger was my sister, both of us waiting for heaven.

The next day after a concert in a nearby church in Mjøndaleiv, we were approached by Dr. Jan Paulsen, former General Conference president. With a wide smile and warmth in his voice, he thanked us for sharing God through our music, stating that Southwestern was truly blessed to have such a magnificent group of young people who offered such powerful testimony through song.

A few days later, we were standing in Ekebyholm, an Adventist school in Sweden, singing for a student chapel service.

Afterward, we had the wonderful experience of rehearsing with their choir. The students wanted to sing some of their favorite choir pieces, and we were more than happy to share the stage with them.

We may not have known their names, nor they ours, but our bond through music was undeniable. Their choir director later wrote us an email saying, “You were an inspiration to us and it was such fun with the variety and intensity of our program. Our school choir was also blessed by your participation and interest. It was truly a wonderful day! You are spreading joy all over the place!”

Once we arrived in Finland, we visited many cathedrals and were able to test their acoustical spaces. Turku Cathedral in Turku, Finland (pictured left) has one of the longest resonating echoes in

all of Scandinavia, lasting for several seconds. Singing in this space was a truly ethereal experience. As the melody left our lips, it seemed to simply linger in the air, creating a beautiful blend of chords and notes. One of our more challenging acoustical spaces was Temppe Liaukion Kirkko in Finland. This cathedral built into a rock was structurally magnificent and is a popular tourist attraction. As we sang, dozens of visitors came and went, pausing to listen to our songs. One of these tourists found us on Facebook and left a message saying, “I was passing through and heard you singing at the Temeliaukion in Finland. Oh, it was so mesmerizing and lovely. Well done!” It’s incredible how God uses us to impact strangers and friends alike.

Many times, we were told what a wonderful blessing we were, yet I feel as though I was the one who was most blessed. The hospitality was truly the greatest blessing of all.

Although difficulties arose from time to time, God always provided. As I think back to those moments when I was singing until I thought my voice would give out, or waking up at 3 a.m. to catch a flight, I realize one thing: the music we learn and sing together is not meant to be kept to ourselves, it is meant to be shared with the world.

By Lindsay Johnson Sophomore Biology Major

Helsinki Cathedral, Finland

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 21

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News

More Than You Realize

The Far-reaching Impact of Our Words and Actions

I

can remember it almost like it was yesterday. I was in the Intensive Care Unit. I had a health issue that was very serious and it was critical that I receive extra care.

Toward the end of that experience, I was able to be alert and talk with the staff and visitors who came by. One of the things that became common during those days in that unit was nurses, technicians and physicians who would come in at all hours during the day or night. Often those visits would come during the wee hours of the morning. Just about the time I would get to sleep, a person would check on me and wake me up.

I remember waking up one morning at 2 a.m. to not just one person in the room but a whole crowd of people. They were shoving and pushing each other into my room as quickly as they could. My first thought was something must be really wrong with me, but I quickly realized that something else was happening. A nurses informed me that there was a man in the hospital who was intent on coming up to the ICU and shooting several of the staff because he believed they had not given proper medical attention with one of his family members. I remember thinking I didn’t want a potentially active shooter coming to my room looking for medical staff! I asked them why they had come to my room. Their reply was amazing! “We know you are a preacher, a man of God, and we thought this was the safest place to be!” Wow! They asked if I would pray for them, and I did. What an opportunity for ministry! I began to realize with great intensity the importance of influence for the cause of Christ.

During my last night in the ICU, a young nurse came in and gave me the good news that I was about to transferred to the regular floor. She told me I needed to look good to leave the unit and proceeded to wash my hair and shave my face. I really appreciated her thoughtfulness. While performing her responsibilities, she said, “Pastor, I really want to have a better life and I’m not sure what to do.” I remember asking her how she knew I was a pastor. She began telling her story. In the middle of that conversation, she indicated that she lived almost directly across the street from the church and admitted that she had slipped in the back of the church a couple of times while I was preaching. She had been impressed with those visits and was searching for something meaningful. When she discovered I was in the ICU, she requested to be my nurse. After she explained all of this, she came back to the original question.

What should she do with her life? I remember sharing Jesus with her that night, and there in my room, we had prayer together and she gave her heart to Jesus!

Influence. Whether you realize it or not, you make an impact. I pray your influence will be special for the cause of Christ, even if it is in the most unusual places.

I am reminded of a disciple named Andrew, of whom there is no recorded sermon in the Scriptures. Andrew had a special way of bringing people to Jesus, such as befriending a young boy who had a lunch of five loaves and two fish. That influence touched and fed 5,000.

What about you? I believe your influence can accomplish more than you know.

Don’t be afraid to share your story with someone. You may never even realize what Jesus has done through you, but never fear, your story is a powerful tool in the Master’s hand!

By Richard C. Dye, Sr., President

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Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News

Reaching Out

Baton Rouge Prison Ministry BATON ROUGE, LA. – The Baton Rouge Seventh-day Adventist Church has a Prison Ministry team that is very active with the Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP), Angola Annexation. The team is composed of 10-12 individuals who are permitted to join inmates for worship services on the LSP grounds two Sabbaths per month.

Although there are dozens of different beliefs represented on the prison campus, it takes a lot of preparation and persistence to be allowed on this campus. The Baton Rouge church has been persistent and has a strong presence at the prison.

The LSP Angola Annexation was once the most dreaded prison in the world. The minimum sentence is 20 years and the maximum is life. Once someone was assigned there, there was little hope of leaving it alive. With approximately 8,000 inmates, it contains some of the most hardened criminals.

However, about 30 years ago, the LSP warden decided to allow religious

groups into the complex and the Baton Rouge church began its ministry then.

In a very unique situation there is also a Baptist Bible Theology College on the campus where inmates can study and learn about the Bible. In those 30 years the atmosphere has changed from extremely violent to a more open and friendlier environment.

The Baton Rouge church presently has about 35 baptized members on the campus and the inmates conduct their own services on the Sabbaths that the church’s prison ministries team is not permitted to come in.

One of the outreach ministries that the church fosters is the annual Fellowship Banquet where inmates’ families are invited to come on campus to meet and greet their family member, and to interact with those from the Baton Rouge church that are in attendance.

The church makes up little gift bags for the families and offers assistance for family members who may live in the area. This year approximately 80 guests

attended and enjoyed hearing the Baton Rouge church’s pastor, Mike Martinez, speak of the power of your own testimony. He was followed by the Annexation elder, Demetrius Bradley, who told his personal testimony.

Through a mixture of tears and praise, he reflected how God had worked in his life—transforming him from a soul in need to one working for the glory of God—even if from behind prison bars.

God is evident and truly working in the spiritual growth and rehabilitation of this inmate community. Pictured are Baton Rouge members (standing, from left) Larry Henry, Michelle Jackson, Diane Knight, Pastor Mike Martinez, Gerrianne Thomas, Gustavo Dupertuis, Greg Bratcher, (seated, from left) Bobbie Martinez, Veronica Henry, Abigael Songok, and Damaris Dupertuis.

By Diane Knight

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 23

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News

Safe Television Day

Encouraging Wholesome Programming SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson has designated May 8 as Safe Television Day in the state of Arkansas. On April 30, Hutchinson presented the Safe Television Day proclamation to the President/CEO of Safe TV, Carlos Pardeiro, encouraging individuals and families to choose to watch wholesome, positive television programming which uplifts God, family and country. Safe TV can be watched at SafeTV.org, on ROKU, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, on smart phone apps and other devices.

Pictured from left are Rick Rodgers, Safe TV Director of On-Air Operations; Carlos Pardeiro, Safe TV President/ CEO; Nancy Pardeiro, Safe TV Corporate Secretary; Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson; Chip Doss, President of Edgemont Video; and Bob Abrahamson, former Mayor of Gentry, Ark.

By Darlene Doublehead

God’s Spiritual Armor Heber Springs Children’s Program HEBER SPRINGS, ARK. – The Heber Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church recently had a very special Sabbath morning program. The Kindergarten/Primary class presented a special program based on Ephesians 6, titled “Young Warriors for Christ” presenting their knowledge and understanding of the need to be spiritually prepared to stand for Christ.

The Kindergarten/Primary class had been studying Christian spiritual preparation for several weeks before the program. The class had made their own outfits reflecting the spiritual armor of

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God as represented in Ephesians. These included the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and sword of the Spirit.

The Kindergarten/Primary class sang their theme song, “I Will Talk to God” and recited the Lord’s Prayer.

The class then went through the armor of God, presenting each part of the armor and what it represents to the prepared Christian.

The members of the Heber Springs church were delighted with the chil-

dren’s special presentation. They remarked on how much the children understood about each piece of the armor!

These children are the lifeblood of our church and it is important to them to be able to share with the adults what they are learning! It is truly a blessing to be able to work with young children.

By Judith Newton

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News

Pastor and a Faithful Few Church Raises Funds for Depression Recovery BENTONVILLE, ARK. – In Judges 7, Gideon starts out with 22,000 Israelites to take on the Midianites in battle. At God’s command, that number is reduced to 10,000 and then again to only 300.

With a faithful few, God can accomplish miracles! The Bentonville Seventh-day Adventist Church recently experienced such a miracle.

The Bentonville church recently started hosting Dr. Neil Nedley’s Depression and Anxiety Recovery Seminars, attempting to reach people where they have a need. The first session graduated 10 individuals!

This success prompted the church members to look for ways to continue, but on a larger scale. The goal was to find more money for seminar scholarships to help grow the program and reach more people in the community.

In a brainstorming session for fundraising ideas, one church member suggested taking part in a local idea pitch contest where we might be award-

ed $1,000 for our depression recovery program idea. With only a few days to implement this idea, we reached out to church members. We hoped to get enough church members to attend the event and cast their vote so we might win the award by popular vote.

On the night of the contest, we only had eight church members present in a crowd of over 100. The odds didn’t look to be in our favor for the popular vote. We started praying that God would help us take home the award for our program anyway.

As contestants began to come forward and deliver their 60-second idea pitch, our faith was stretched even further. Many of the contestants had great ideas and were well prepared to give their pitches. We wondered if we’d have a chance. Through faith and prayers we requested a miracle.

Finally, it was time for Belew to pitch our idea. As if speaking with good friends, he delivered his 60-second

message to the crowd. He sincerely shared with the audience how our depression recovery program can help people live to their full potential. When he finished, we were encouraged and knew that the Lord had indeed spoken through him just then.

It took some time for the votes to be tallied, but, soon the winner was announced. Belew had won the people’s choice award and the $1,000! It was truly a miracle! With only a faithful few church members in the crowd to vote, we still won! God had indeed moved the hearts of many in the crowd to cast their vote in our favor. These funds will substantially help in growing the depression recovery program at the Bentonville church.

By Shawn J. Kohltfarber

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 25

Arkansas-Louisiana Conference News

Ozark Outreach

Serving a Community of Students OZARK, ARK. – Five years ago, the Clear Creek Baptist Association located in Ozark, Ark. contacted the Ozark Seventh-day Adventist Church’s pastor, Bryan Seymour, about using the church as a place to provide food for the students from Arkansas Tech University.

As the Ozark church is located just across the street from the university, the Clear Creek Baptist Association now uses our fellowship room with kitchen facilities to serve the students. They provide breakfast or lunch every Tuesday.

They have included the Ozark church in the feeding of the students, and the church feeds the students twice a year.

Usually, around 60 to 150 students are served each time. We have just completed our fifth year of service.

Our head elder is there to help facilitate in any way needed and the chaplain is available to visit and pray with them. As a church we feel it is an outstanding outreach to our Baptist friends and to the community. The students have become familiar with our church and with the help of the

New Members

Holy Spirit, we pray that some of the students will find our church as their church home.

By Arlene Lewis

Zachary Baptisms Follow Prophecy Seminar ZACHARY, LA. – Four new members have joined the Zachary Seventh-day Adventist Church following an Amazing Facts prophecy seminar with Dakota Day in March. Brecken and Albert were baptized and Dan and Cathy joined by profession of faith. Each week our new members join us and and our pastor for prayer meeting and Friday evening Bible study. We praise the Lord for our new friends and their faithfulness.

By Cheryl Livingston

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Oklahoma Conference News

Where Do I Begin?

Taking the Time to Let God Speak To Us and Through Us

M

y smartwatch buzzes with another news feed. It doesn’t take much in today’s world to be reminded of our fragile existence. Our society, our communities, our families—we are all suffering. As a Seventh-day Adventist I have hope, but I sometimes find myself asking questions like, “What can I do, and where would I begin? What difference could I possibly make?”

Have you ever asked yourself these kinds of questions?

People who make it a profession to study human nature will tell you that the only person you can change is yourself. Scripture, however, claims otherwise (Jeremiah 17:9). God changes hearts and restores minds (Ezekiel 36:26; 2 Cor. 5:17). The Bible also teaches that God’s people have been given the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-21). Therefore, it is possible for you and I to make a difference. We can be a catalyst for change. But where do we begin?

I believe the best place to initiate change is with ourselves and those nearest us—our families. A familiar passage from Proverbs 22:6 states, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” It’s important to pause and think about this for a moment. As the Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary reminds us, “to do this ‘they [parents] must themselves understand the ‘way’ the child should go.’” In other words, parents must first understand the “way,” before they can ever hope to instruct the child on “how” they should grow. Herein lies the problem.

A while back Barna Research Group posted their findings amongst mainstream Christian families. They found 85% of parents with children under age of 13 believed it was their primary responsibility to equip their children in matters of spirituality and religious belief. The problem was that this same survey showed parents failing to spend any quality time speaking or studying religious materials with their children. In fact, the Barna Group found that almost all parents depended upon the church to do “all” of their children’s religious training.

If we’re going to start somewhere, parents, it must begin with you and me. We must initiate the process of allowing God to search our hearts and minds (Psalm 139:23-24). We need to be the ones to model this to our families and those within our circle of influence. And it will not happen unless we (1) take time to let God speak into us, and (2) take time to let God speak through us, into our children.

In Ministry of Healing, Ellen G. White sets the record straight, stating: “Society is composed of families, and is what the heads of families make it…the heart of the community, of the church, and of the nation is the household. The well-being of society, the success of the church, the prosperity of the nation, depend upon home influences.” It begins at home, and it must begin with us. This is where we can and will make an impact in our church, our society and finally, our nation.

By Walter Martinez, Family Life Director

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 27

Oklahoma Conference News

Ministry in Prison Following God's Call Behind Bars HARRAH, OKLA. – “I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me,” Matthew 25:43. These are haunting words that one would hope our Saviour might never say to us.

Heeding the admonition in Matthew, Guthrie Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders Leonard and Carol Tucker began holding worship services for prisoners at Joseph Harp Correctional Center 26 years ago. They invited the Oklahoma Academy Choir and Bell Choir to sing and play.

The inmates loved it and asked them to come again. The choirs continued to visit the prison until a change to the law no longer allowed it. The Tuckers then started a Bible school for inmates in Oklahoma called Evangelistic Enterprises. The Bible school utilized the assistance of students from Oklahoma Academy to help grade the answered Bible studies. Currently, there are more than 200 inmates taking Bible studies with Evangelistic Enterprises. The ministry has grown so much; it truly deserves our prayers and our donations to keep this worthy mission amongst us going!

In 1992, Guthrie members and leaders Keith and Lavelle Mackey took over the worship services at Joseph Harp, and then Floyd Thornton joined them.

Thornton took over in 1993 and the

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group has grown from just a handful to more than 30 who attend regularly.

The ministry’s volunteer base has become larger, too, and our faith and courage has strengthened greatly. Since then, there have been services every Sabbath. We have a song service, praises and prayer requests, a mission story and lesson study time, then a sermon. The inmates enthusiastically participate.

Audrey Sandvik and I co-direct the services now and the members themselves direct a Sabbath afternoon Bible study. There is also a Spanish group which has grown to about eight inmates and the group is also meeting with volunteers on Sabbath afternoons. The members have a Bible class on Wednesdays and a Spanish one on Thursdays.

We enjoy a Communion service every quarter with Len Harbeson presiding, and an Agape feast in June. At Christmas time, we have an eagerly-anticipated breakfast along with the Sabbath service and once had "Christmas Behind Bars" bring their goodie bags out. The inmates were thrilled!

We also give out hygiene and goodie bags each year with the Christmas breakfast. We have had two Daniel Fasts and ended them with a fellowship meal.

We held a Memorial Service for one member who died.

To the glory of God, we've had several inmates baptized or join the

church through Profession of Faith in the past few years. They have grown spiritually and are now helping out with the services, as they are able. Joining in the services helps them know that they belong, and under the volunteer's supervision, they assist in taking roll, setting up chairs, getting the music instruments ready, leading song services, prayers, the mission story and Sabbath school lesson. We see them mature and become solid Seventh-day Adventist members this way.

Our team currently includes Floyd Thornton, Joann Stiggers, Orville and Janice Roberts, Philip and Audrey Sandvik, and myself. Occasionally, Leonard and Carol Tucker still join us.

Since I started going to prisons in 2014, I have found this ministry very rewarding and inspiring! Is God calling you to join in visiting those in prisons and sharing the word of life to them?

If so, I'm warning you, get ready to be blessed in fulfilling God's injunction to visit hungry souls that are waiting there!

By Claire Luz Diaz-Henderson

Oklahoma Conference News

Celebrating 50 Years

Remember Old Friends and the “Good Old Days” OKLAHOMA CITY – On Sabbath, April 7, 2018, members old and new joined together to celebrate 50 years of the Southern Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church. On April 7, 1968, the Southern Hills church became an official member of the sisterhood of churches of the Oklahoma Conference. We assembled in the sanctuary to hear reports by Mike Levescy and Lenora Anderson about the 106 members who originally transferred from the Central Seventh-day Adventist Church, the first board meeting notes, the first church officers and the charter

members of the church. Birdie Stremlow gave an inspiring report of how the community services ministry, led by her mother, Opal Smith, was instrumental in serving the community and giving Bible studies. Stremlow served as Community Service Leader for three decades, and was very active during the large tornado of 1999, assisting ADRA. Carla Everett gave a current report of community services.

Southern Hills’ pastor John Moyer spoke and then introduced a previous pastor, Gilbert Green. They both have

contributed to the church’s success and spiritual atmosphere. Over the 50 years, there have been 12 pastors who have graced our pulpit, led our board meetings, our prayer meetings and have been our spiritual leaders.

After all the reports, music, and reminiscing was complete, the congregation fellowshipped and visited. It was a lovely Sabbath afternoon to be with fellow Christian friends.

By Susan Castillo

Elders Take The Lead

Evangelism and Personam Ministry in Antlers ANTLERS, OKLA. – The Antlers Seventh-day Adventist Church conducted a full evangelistic series of 22 nights with their head elder, Ernest Rosa, as the speaker.

This was preceded with Creation Health presentations with Pat Humphrey in the same location. The meetings started out with 12 visitors and continued with 10 until the end of the series.

Many of the visitors were individuals who had studied with local elders Ernest Rosa and Ollie Dillishaw. Even though no baptisms have taken place as a direct result of the meetings yet, the church

was able to build relationships with those who attended, and continues with regular visitation with a group of those guests. We are grateful for our local church elders who have taken the initiative to lead out and have invested their time and energy for the gospel’s sake.

By Stephen Dennis

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 29

Oklahoma Conference News

Elk City Baptisms

Praising God For New Church Family ELK CITY, OKLA. – God recently showed us that He is not limited by numbers at our evangelistic meetings in Elk City.

Our church may be small, but our God is big. We have gone from 13 members to 20. Last September we welcomed the Amazing Facts evangelistic team of Wyatt and Jenni Allen and Daniel and Caitlin Fornes. On opening night, God brought 34 new faces through the church doors. We continued to watch, work, pray and be amazed as God continued to keep the numbers at an average of 24 throughout the meetings.

In the children’s room we started out with 17 children, ages 1-12. It was wonderful to see the children coming every night along with their families, extended families and friends. Each night we sang together, prayed and had a special message and craft for them. One night a two-year old fell asleep on a big, stuffed animal tiger. It reminded us of heaven and how children, tigers and lions will be safe together.

At the close of the meetings, nine precious people were baptized! It was a blessing to watch as a husband, wife and

her twin sister were baptized at the same time by our pastor, David Ritter, with the help of Wyatt Allen.

Many others played a part in the success of these meeting as well. Praise the Lord for each one! Though the meetings are over and goodbyes were said, the story continues in your life and mine, a story of God sharing His love, care and truth with His children everywhere. How will you let God continue to write this story in your life and the lives of those you come in contact with?

By Hannah Pickl

Conference Staff Retreat

Building Strong Relationships to Better Serve Members HULBERT, OKLA. – The Oklahoma Conference staff, along with family members, traveled to Sequoia National Park, March 30-31, 2018, for a spiritual retreat. The time away from the office offered a unique opportunity to worship in nature, and to get better acquainted personally. We enjoyed wonderful meals, walks in nature and a special opportunity to study and worship together.

Throughout our time together, different officers and department directors led out to encourage us to sing or to interact with one another. They used various

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personal assignments to have us reveal specific items about ourselves. We were entertained and educated all at the same time. The theme for our time together was “God With Us” taken from the first chapter of Ellen G. White’s book The Desire of Ages.

We came away from the weekend refreshed, renewed and more personally involved with our work team and officers. We can now better serve one another and our Oklahoma members.

By Susan Castillo

Oklahoma Conference News

Accepting Jesus

Two Young Boys Commit Their Lives CHEROKEE, OKLA. – On June 30, 2018, on a beautiful Sabbath afternoon, a group of believers met at Salt Plains State Park Lake to witness two boys make a life-commitment to Christ in baptism. Quaide and Shawn Simpson have not only completed several sets of Bible studies including “My Place With Jesus” and “Landmarks of Prophecy,” but have also made the forward steps of inviting their neighbor-friends over and conducting Bible studies in their home and bicycling across town to lead Bible studies at their cousin’s house.

Every month, they volunteer their time unloading the food pantry truck and distributing food in the community and volunteering time at the community thrift store. They have participated in Adventurers every year for six years and are online students of Sycamore Adventist Academy. In preparing for Adventurer Bible Bowl, the boys have deeply studied the life of Moses, the book of Daniel, the Sanctuary and frequently build Sanctuary models with their Legos. Shawn, remarkably, can quote entire chapters of both Daniel and

Revelation. He sometimes pulls random people to the side at camp meeting to share with them the incredible messages of Daniel 2 and Daniel 7, and has subsequently given sermons at various churches. While these are incredible accomplishments for an eight-year-old and a nine-year-old, the boys understand that this is only the beginning of a life-long journey, holding God’s hand as He leads the way in their lives.

By Gabi Simpson

Church Outreach

Meeting the Needs of the Community LAWTON, OKLA. – Over Memorial Day weekend, 15 members of the Lawton Seventh-day Adventist Church, led

by Willie Brown, Community Service Leader, brought and served lunch to the residents of the C. Carter Crane Shelter for the Homeless. This was a wonderful event filled with food, fun and smiling faces. Not only were the members able to physically feed the residents, they worked to feed them spiritually through prayer and handing out Steps to Christ, along with information on how residents may use the church van to receive rides

to and from church on the Sabbath.

Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This was evident to the members who participated in this outreach event. Not only did this event touch the hearts of the residents of the C. Carter Crane Shelter, but also the hearts of the church members.

Members are eagerly awaiting the next outreach event in the upcoming months and plan to do more projects in their community.

By Willie Brown

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 31

Southwest Region Conference News

Individualized Salvation Bringing Each Family Member to Jesus

“B

ut as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord,” Joshua 24:15. As young Adventists, many are enamored with groups who are or have been saved. Consider groups like the eight who were saved in the ark, the family of Jacob saved from famine, the multitude who left Egypt after 400 years of slavery, the 11 disciples who followed Jesus, or the 120 who received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Many are enthralled about whole conferences and whole groups being saved or lost because of the view that God only saves in groups. It is a misnomer to believe that group salvation was the plan of the Most High. It was the divine master plan to demand the life of the very Son of God who would remove His kingly robe and place on His glorious body the lowly garb of humanity. Our God removed from Himself the power of divinity to save just one. Jesus would become sin for us so that we who deserve death would receive eternal life from He who is the author of life. In exchange, He would suffer the death that we deserve so that we can grasp hold of life that is His possession alone to give.

It is from this exchange that sinners are transformed into being saints and that the lost are found. The very thought that Jesus takes my place and gives me His place removes forever the thought that salvation comes as a result of a group plan.

The reality of a personal Jesus who not only understands my pain and accepts my imperfections, who intercedes on my behalf to assist me into a oneness with His Father, is comforting. Jesus identifies with all of my insufficiencies and makes up the difference in my quest to acquire eternal life, and gives me a joy that is unparalleled.

Joshua’s words should not be thought of as God saving his family in a group but rather a commitment from a leader to not only follow God, but to make a personal covenant with God. Joshua used his personal influence and guarantee to God that with every fiber of his being, he would continue to motivate, encourage and persuade the members of his family until his covenant with God becomes theirs.

Rather than group salvation, Joshua was committed to persuade his family to accept God’s way over any other path or lifestyle. We are living in the final days of earth’s history just as Joshua was of the final generation before entering Canaan. It should be incumbent upon us to use our influence to empower our families to accept the love of a God who is willing to change places with sinners to make them saints.

By Jonathan E. McCottry, Sr., Pastor, Philadelphia Seventh-day Adventist Church and New Start Seventh-day Adventist Church

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Southwest Region Conference News

Children at Camp Meeting Lone Star VBS Visits BibleLand ATHENS, TEX. – Vacation Bible School was a very unique experience this year at Lone Star Camp Meeting in Athens, Tex. The event “Exploring Bible Lands” was tailor-made for the two-day VBS, June 7-8, by the Southwest Region Conference Children’s Ministries pastors and leaders.

The central theme for the Vacation Bible School program, “There is Nothing Too Hard for God,” was based on Jeremiah 32:17. Each morning, the children were given rhythm sticks, kazoos and other percussion instruments to participate in worship and in a Bible sound story.

Following the opening exercises, the preschoolers, under the engaging instruction of Gwen Williams, sang, colored and enjoyed their Bible lands experience.

Meanwhile, the older children were sent to explore one of three stations.

At the crafts station, the children were led by Aja Hamlin. Here, they created three-dimensional scenes from Bible lands and also assembled Bible-themed stained glass windows.

At the drama station, Christopher Allicock and Austin Harris directed small productions with the children. The team turned well-known Bible stories into plays with a humorous twist such as “David and the Giant Problem.”

The third station was health and wellness. At this station, the children had great fun experiencing games from Bible times with pastor Brent Batiste.

Snack time with yummy fruit, natural snacks and juices was prepared by Velma Taylor and Glenda Batiste.

All of these wonderful activities happened under the watchful supervision of security monitors, pastor Billy Green and Jalen Jones. After lunch on day one, the children all returned to join in a very energizing Junior Olympics tournament where every participant earned an honor.

Many thanks to all of the leaders, pastors and parents who assisted in making this two-day event a spirit-filled and memorable success.

By Cheryl Harris Children’s Ministries Coordinator

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 33

Southwest Region Conference News

Returning to the Old Paths Southwest Region Conference Camp Meeting 2018 ATHENS, TEX. – The 2018 Southwest Region Conference Camp Meeting, “Returning to the Old Paths,” held something for everyone. The theme, from Jeremiah 6:16, provided the backdrop.

Southwest Region Conference President Calvin L. Watkins qualified the old paths as “the standard Three Angels’ Message that has brought us this far.”

In Friday evening’s welcome he added, “The more we move from the old paths, the more the devil can creep into our souls.” Throughout the four days, several speakers would echo that sentiment.

The series began with pastor Tyrone Douglas’ “Righteousness by Faith” and ended with pastor Helvius Thompson’s “The Holy Spirit.”

The program included early morning devotions, workshops, a noon power hour and the evening service. The “War Room,” was inside a spacious canvas tent. Within that enclosure of an outer and an inner chamber, pastors Truman Bryant and Michael Mitchell welcomed campers with presentations on the power of prayer and the need for more unity among and within our churches.

Campers recorded their prayer requests onto slips of paper and put them into a prayer box.

Many then entered one of two curtained “rooms” where they used their finger to write their petitions into a raised sandbox. Then they “erased” the

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petition—the act signifying Jesus’ forgiving and eradicating the offense.

During Sabbath School, Southwestern Adventist University President Ken Shaw shared about the university’s involvement in recent humanitarian efforts, including the biology professor who took his boat to rescue many during Hurricane Harvey. Student government president Samson Sembeba shared how WWJD? (What Would Jesus Do) is a part of his daily routine.

Watkins recognized Doris Jones, appropriately dubbed the “First Lady of Lone Star” and the widow of former President W. C. Jones, who had the vision to orchestrate the purchasing of the Lone Star Camp property. The worship speaker was Northeastern Conference President Daniel Honoré. His message, “Looking for Bread in All the Wrong Places,” was based on Ruth 1. The Hebrew Bethlehem means “house of bread,” while Judah means “land of praise.” Honoré passionately shared, “God promised Israel bread for praise, but because God’s people abandoned Him by leaving the old paths and aligning themselves with the Moabites, God withdrew His blessing.

When there is no bread in your house of bread, the temptation is to look for bread in the wrong place. Only after submitting to God can we pray Give us this day our daily bread. God’s bread of life can only be found in God’s house.”

Camp meeting had no shortage of music highlighted by the Sabbath afternoon concert featuring recording artist Anthony Brown and Group TherAPy. The concert, sandwiched between the choir festival and vespers, left its audience in awe as it swayed to the sometimes “upbeat” gospel songs; or sat while hardly able to contain itself, stood and sang along with the artists, always responding to the songs’ messages and their accompanying rhythmic beat.

Pastors Tyrone Douglas and Helvis Moody led out with the youth and young adults ministries. The weekend return of pastor James L. Black, Sr., for whom the youth center was named, was a welcomed voice. Our children’s ministries with pastor Charles Sanders and his staff enjoyed an early Vacation Bible School with the theme “Exploring Bibleland.”

While Singles led by Vera Ragland closed out Saturday with their Caribbean social, on Sunday, Pathfinders officially closed out the 2018 camp meeting with their drill competition. Our visionary president has already announced the 2019 theme “We’ve Come This Far

by Faith.” We pray for that fulfilment as we look forward to “ten days of a united camp meeting.”

By Evelyn Edwards Photos by Venus Douglas

Southwest Region Conference News

Blessed Indeed

Women’s Ministries Congress Brings Women Together SUGAR LAND, TEX. – The Southwest Region Conference’s Women’s Ministries Congress was held March 9-11, 2018 in Sugar Land, Texas. To God be all the glory, honor and praise for the unmistaken way He blessed the 500 attendees. From registration to wrap-up it was evident that Heaven’s benediction was on this ministry initiative, and it also cemented in the minds of those who assisted in the congress planning and preparation that prevailing prayer works.

When challenges confronted the Women’s Ministries Director, she instituted 21 days of prayer and fasting. The ladies rallied around her and would have a prayer conference call every Monday evening, during the duration of the fast.

We celebrate the fact that this Congress had not only a multicultural

aspect to it, but also catered to females across the lifespan. The many young people who participated in the sessions designated for them evidenced the fellowship and inspiration that can occur when we heed Paul’s advice in 2 Timothy 2:3-5, as older women and mentors to the younger women.

The session addressed spiritual, social, emotional and physical challenges that women face. The presenters engaged the attendees in presentations that captivated and enlightened them. We are blessed to have such a cadre of workers who are willing and able to serve.

Again, we say, sincere thanks to all of them. Dr. D. Renee Mobley and evangelist Nicolle J. Brise, our featured speakers for Sabbath, dramatically demonstrated the various hats that women wear and

how they can successfully overcome the obstacles in their past, and steer into new vistas in the future.

Thanks to God and gratitude to all who contributed to the blessings of the Women’s Ministries Congress. Indeed, we were tremendously blessed.

By Claudette J. Andrews Photos by TechnicallyArt Photography

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 35

Southwest Region Conference News

Embracing Next

Fondren Church Welcomes New Pastoral Administration MISSOURI CITY, TEX. – The Fondren Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed their new pastoral administration on March 3, 2018. One week prior, beloved and departing pastor Edson Joseph delivered a powerful message and moving appeal for God to bless the church with the power to continue growing.

Southwest Region Conference President Calvin Watkins presided over the installation of senior pastor, Gordon Jones, and assistant pastor, Michelle Mota. His dedicatory prayer charged each pastor to take the city for God as

they serve Him with all their heart, mind and strength. Deacons were charged to take care of each pastor and elders were charged to care for the deacons.

Michelle Mota spoke of her belief in “Boomerang Love.” God pours out His love to ministers, like her, who in turn share with the congregants, who then love others in return. Jones opened up his message speaking humbly of accepting the call to continue building the kingdom following the great legacy set by former pastors Alex Horton, Charles Sanders, Helvis Moody and

Edson Joseph. Pastors Bullard, Free and Ming from the Austin area were present to add their congratulations, support and blessing to their fellow colleagues.

In Jones’ message, “Embracing Next,” he shared that comfort zones are places where possibilities are limited and opportunities are minimal; when you don’t allow God to decide your “next,” you can become incarcerated by your past.

The Fondren church family is excited to see what God will do in this new season.

By Cheryl Harris, Photo by Stacy Griggs

Mayor and Chief Visit Bethel Building Relationships with Community Leaders TEXARKANA, TEX. – On May 12, 2018, Bethel Seventh-day Adventist School hosted Wake Village's finest community leaders at the Bethel Seventh-day Adventist Church. This worship event strengthened bonds between community leaders, the school and church. Police Chief Ronny Sharp and his officers had visited the school previously, to the students’ delight. The first female mayor of Wake Village, Sheryl Collum, brought greetings and was very grateful for the opportunity to worship at Bethel church.

By Glasmine Ellis, Photo by April Taylor

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Texas Conference News

Your Whole Family

We Must Be in Constant Prayer for Our Loved Ones

O

ne of the most intriguing verses in scripture is found in Genesis 7:1: “The Lord then said to Noah, ‘Go into the ark, you and your whole family….’” I believe those words are vital for God’s people living in the last days. The whole world around us is quickly corroding and deteriorating. It is evident that although Satan has multiple targets of ruin prior to the imminent return of the Savior, the destruction of family is among his highest priorities. Everywhere we look, we see families in peril.

The work of the enemy in Adventist homes is staggering. In Christ's Object Lessons, Ellen G. White says, “The time is near when He will say, 'Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.'” We readily perceive the “indignation” of the times all around us. So, what does it mean when the Lord makes the statement, "enter into thy chambers and shut the doors about thee?” The reference points back to that dreadful moment just prior to the exodus when one of the plagues, the slaying of the first-born in Egypt, took place.

God’s people were to remain within the security of their dwellings until the hand of God had finished sweeping through the land.

The key point is that their homes were not secure because of anything they could accomplish, but due to the promised presence of the Lord with them throughout the ordeal. The Bible says in Psalm 46:1-2, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”

Our attitude and demeanor display whether we are with God or against Him. We are summoned to bear a positive witness to the omnipotence of God, to His unfailing faithfulness and to His magnificent goodness that He showers upon both the just and the unjust inhabitants of this world.

Are we in constant prayer for our families? In constant effort to bring them into His presence? Our homes and our families are the battleground between Christ and Satan. Who is winning at your house?

By Carlos Craig, President

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 37

Texas Conference News

Health Ministries Opportunity

Supportive, Therapeutic Relationships Change Past Trauma ALVARADO, TEX. – There is a crisis of brokenness, suicide, addiction, divorce, sexual, physical and substance abuse that is taking a toll on our lives. Diseases that reflect death by despair are now common. Evidence-based medicine has concluded that chronically traumatized individuals are looking for “supportive, therapeutic relationships.” What an opportunity!

People are looking for relationships, supportive, healing, nurturing relationships. Could the church, following the procedure Jesus used with the woman at the well, change these stories of brokenness? Could Your Best Pathway to Health, or any health event, impact a city’s crisis in a way similar to how Jesus impacted Samaria? The science behind this opportunity is fascinating.

Renowned physician and researcher Vincent J. Felitti studied 17,000 adults in San Diego, investigating their childhood experiences. Sixty-six percent had been exposed to physical and sexual abuse and neglect. They concluded that these experiences caused changes in the developing brain, and were linked to obesity, diabetes, depression, suicide, criminal behavior and more. A study from Van der Kolk and d'Andrea in 2010 found that “to avoid this psychological pain, chronically traumatized individuals are prone to seek supportive, therapeutic relationships.”

38 RECORD MAGAZINE

Texas Conference Evangelism Director Dan Serns observed such individuals in previous mega-clinics. While thousands came for medical and dental services, others wanted something more.

Recognizing the possibilities with the Your Best Pathway to Health event in the Fort Worth area Sept. 19-21, 2018, we attempted to set up 100 small groups around the metroplex and train 200 care relationship coaches with the seven step protocol Jesus used with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. Any church can use this method to connect with those hurting in their own communities.

1. Connect. Stay connected to Jesus.

Three times a day for at least 15 minutes, give thanks and pray for the Holy Spirit. You can’t give what you never received.

2. Model. Model daily health, wellness and grace starting with your families.

3. Honor. Honor others with love and compassion. “Give me a drink.” Jesus honored the ostracized woman at the well. Pay an honest compliment and ask open-ended questions such as, “What brought you here?” Humility, courtesy and kindness always work.

4. Grace. Share your story of grace that you have prepared (what God has done for you).

5. Brokenness. Ask others what may be burdening their hearts. Empathize

with their pain and ask them to share only if they feel comfortable. Carry a little packet of tissues.

6. Jesus. Mention that Jesus offers grace. Study the person’s eyes, voice and body language. If the Lord convicts you, pray with the person.

7. Invitation. Invite the person to a small group. Ask, “May I stay in touch with you?” If offered, take the person’s name, phone number and email. Ask permission to call the next day. Call within 48 hours. With permission, pass on the person’s name to the coordinator.

The power of the invitation cannot be underestimated. During a cooking event following the Your Best Pathway to Health event in Phoenix, Arizona, the event organizer felt compelled to invite ten people to meet at her house. They report that 35 people meet there every week now.

The world is facing a crisis of brokenness solved only with loving, healing, supportive relationships. We have a huge opportunity to share our personal story of grace and connect hurting people to Christ, their peaceful future for eternity.

By Errol B. Bryce Health Ministries Director

Texas Conference News

A Mighty Work

Jacksonville Increases by Baptism and Profession of Faith JACKSONVILLE, TEX. – Juan Israel Martinez, Graciela Guerrero, Jordi Julian Guerrero and Lizeth Zuniga were baptized May 12, 2018. Edwin Ledezma, pastor of the Jacksonville Seventh-day Adventist group baptized the family at the Lake Jacksonville Recreational Area.

Miguel Benavides and his wife, Raquel, joined the group by profession of faith.

It was a beautiful day of celebration and rejoicing for everyone in attendance.

The Lord has been working mightily in East Texas and, by the grace of God, the group has doubled in attendance.

A Long Life

Texas Native Lydia Sadau Flynn Celebrates Centennial DALLAS – Lydia Sadau Flynn was born Jan. 5, 1918 and remembers the days of horse-drawn buggies. Her parents, Julious and Martha Sadau, were baptized into the Dallas First Seventh-day Adventist Church when she was five years old and Lydia is still a member today.

Tragedy struck the family in 1926 when her father died of scarlet fever.

Lydia's mother was advised to start a church school for her six children on their farm in Olney, Texas. When the Great Depression came, Martha was no longer able to continue the church

Age 14

Age 18

school. God still watched over them by providing a Seventh-day Adventist teacher in the public school.

Lydia was 18 years old when she married, and she had six children: Durwin, Dewayne, Larry Eustace, Shirley Wahlenmaier, Branda Campbell-Buchanan and Darlene Garr.

Around 1950, Lydia became a nurse, which would later become the profession of many of her children, grandchildren and nieces who wished to follow in her footsteps. She always had a garden on her farm in San Angelo, Texas, where

Age 32

she lived until she was 93. She sold her organic produce at the farmers’ market, sending the proceeds to various church and nonprofit organizations.

Active in the church, Lydia was a pianist and Sabbath school superintendent.

President Donald Trump and Governor Greg Abbott, along with their respective wives, sent her birthday greetings.

An avid Bible reader, Lydia hopes to live to see Jesus come. She still helps spread the gospel to anyone she sees.

Recent

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 39

Texas Conference News

One Year Anniversary

Mount Zion Fellowship Has Week-Long Celebration ARLINGTON, TEX. – Mount Zion Fellowship, a group affiliated with the Arlington Southern Worship Center Seventh-day Adventist Church, celebrated its oneyear anniversary with a week-long celebration, Aug. 13-19, 2017.

The anniversary was punctuated with great music, seasons of prayer and powerful preaching. Notable speakers included Marvin Clarke, a pastor from Abundant Life Seventh-day Adventist Church in Las Vegas, Nevada; Emmanuel Amakye, a local elder from the Dallas-Ft. Worth Ghanaian Seventh-day

Adventist Church; and Sam Bore, Men's Ministries leader, from the Arlington Alpha International Seventh-day Church.

Keynote speaker was Pako Mokgwane (pictured), Associate Youth Director for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Two hundred people joined the Sabbath celebration where Pastor Mokgwane gave a powerful sermon on faith and urged the members to trust in God. He reminded members that what God had done in the past, He will do again.

The climax of the day was when seven

individuals gave their lives to Jesus, by going into the watery grave of baptism.

In the afternoon, various groups performed a musical concert. Some of the groups featured were Baraka Unlimited, Messengers of Grace, The Group, Bless Up, Agape Family Choir and Mount Zion Fellowship choir. Mount Zion Fellowship group leader Wycliffe Opiyo thanked all who came and encouraged them to keep on trusting in God despite the difficulties of life.

By Spencer Anderson

Canyon Creek Project

Church Plant at North Dallas Adventist Academy RICHARDSON, TEX. – Canyon Creek Project, a new church plant "focused on expressing grace in a tangible way" celebrated its "soft-launch" on June 30, 2018.

Underground (UG), from the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, led the group in praise and worship. “Faith For Today” Speaker/Director Mike Tucker was the speaker.

Peter Casillas, previous Potomac Conference Director for Evangelism and Church Planting, recently joined the Texas Conference to plant the Canyon Creek Project.

40 RECORD MAGAZINE

Project members are eager to create an environment that is welcoming, focused on the Word and filled with creativity. The Project's first soft-launch had an attendance close to 200 people in a sanctuary that seats approximately 1,200, so there is plenty of room to grow. In addition to the contemporary approach, the group is focused on community outreach.

Find more information online at CanyonCreekProject.com and on Facebook and Instagram by searching: Canyon Creek Project.

Texas Conference News

Backpack Ministry

San Marcos Starts the School Year Off Right SAN MARCOS, TEX. – The San Marcos Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted a back-to-school program that started out as a time to pray for students and teachers as they began a new school year. The public relations/marketing

department at Central Texas Medical Center was willing to help our efforts, so we also called Target and spoke with a manager who loved the idea. With everyone’s help, we were able to give away 40 backpacks to 40 kids. For struggling

families, it was an incredible financial lift. We were thankful that we allowed God to work through us to provide for those in need.

By Anita Cisneros

Town Hall Meetings Join Texas Conference administrators at a Town Hall meeting near you to hear conference reports from the previous four years. Following the reports, there will be an opportunity to ask questions. Time at each location is 7:00 to 8:30 pm.

EN’S 2018 M

IT

SUMM

September 30

| TOWN HALL MEETING | VALLEY AREA Edinburg Seventh-day Adventist Church 602 W Wisconsin Rd, Edinburg, Texas

October

1 | TOWN HALL MEETING | SAN ANTONIO AREA Scenic Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church 11223 Bandera Rd, San Antonio, Texas

2 | TOWN HALL MEETING | HOUSTON AREA

Houston West Seventh-day Adventist Church 2390 W Sam Houston Pkwy N, Houston, Texas

November 8 - 11, 2018

Lake Whitney Ranch • 813 FM 2841 Clifton, TX 76634 Open Registration: www.TexasAdventistMen.org Email: info@texasadventistmen.org | Phone: (936) 419-6224 Our Mission is to support and equip men in: Growing Faith | Nurturing Families | Influencing Workplaces | Serving Churches | Impacting Communities

3 | TOWN HALL MEETING | AUSTIN AREA

Austin Spanish First Seventh-day Adventist Church 100 W Rundberg Ln, Austin, Texas

8 | TOWN HALL MEETING | EAST TEXAS AREA Tyler Seventh-day Adventist Church 2935 S Southeast Loop 323, Tyler, Texas

9 | TOWN HALL MEETING | NORTH DALLAS AREA Dallas First Seventh-day Adventist Church 4009 N Central Expy, Dallas, Texas

10 | TOWN HALL MEETING | KEENE/FT. WORTH AREA Burleson Seventh-day Adventist Church 601 S Burleson Blvd, Burleson, Texas

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 41

Texico Conference News

Leading Our Own

The Years are Short but the Influence is Strong

A

wise person once said that when raising children, “The days are long, but the years are short.” Many parents can agree with this statement. With the daily demands of a hectic work day and endless to-do lists, the days can often feel eternal.

However, the key in this phrase is in the last part, "the years are short." The reality is that the years when we most influence our children are indeed not very long. Research indicates that the most important years in a child’s development are from birth to age three. Clearly, we influence our children well beyond the age of three, but there is an important lesson here. When our children are in our care, we must take this opportunity and dedicate ourselves to teaching them about God's love and His promise of salvation. Teaching them does not have to be something that will overwhelm us or will extend the to-do list, but it does involve the way we carry out our daily lives.

Our children are watching us every moment. Although they come to this world with different personalities, our children learn everything from us, including how they should relate to the world. We still remember how as a toddler my daughter used to put on my wife’s high heel shoes. Her tiny feet would barely fill the front of the shoes, but that did not stop her from walking around the house trying to act and walk like her. Even today, as a grown woman, I still see my daughter doing and saying things the way we have done for years.

There is no doubt that a parent’s influence is powerful. Therefore, if our mission as Christians is to give the good news, we should start with our children first and most importantly, show them that our words are in harmony with our actions. Evangelism has many branches, but the opportunity that God gives us with our children is immense. Moreover, a home where God is present is also a very powerful witness because it demonstrates the power of God in a real way. God can use our family as a testimony to touch the hearts of those unbelievers who observe our families. For that reason, I invite you to reflect on what kind of influence you are being in your home because that is where true evangelism begins. Finally, let us not forget what Deuteronomy 11:19 tells us about God’s commands: "Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

By Lee-Roy Chacon, President

42 RECORD MAGAZINE

Texico Conference News

Show Us Your Glory

2018 Texico Conference Camp Meeting CAPITAN, N.M. – The Texico Conference wrapped up another camp meeting at Bonita Park Camp and Conference Center this summer. The mountain-fresh air and fun camp activities were not the only highlights of the three-day camp meeting.

“This year’s camp meeting had something for everyone,” said Texico Conference President Lee-Roy Chacon.

“The highlight of the weekend were the wonderful programs for the children, youth and young adults.”

Over 100 kids participated in an interactive children’s program that was full of outdoor activities including getting sprayed with water by the Bonito Fire Department. While the younger children enjoyed their program, 13-to17-year olds participated in interactive activities with speakers Kevin Bruce and

Stephen Carlile from Two Guys and the Word (TGATW) ministries.

“This year was our first-time meeting under a tent and the first time we had an entirely separate program just for our teens,” said Texico Conference Youth Director Mike Razon. “TGATW brought the house down with their praise and worship, inspiring messages, and hilarious Q&A session. The teens also enjoyed the zipline and ropes course, and we had our annual water balloon fight, which we hope will be an ongoing tradition.”

Tiago Arrais, a religion teacher at São Paulo Adventist University in Brazil, was the guest speaker for the young adult meetings. Focusing on the topic “following Jesus in the real world,” Arrias engaged the young adults in deep theological conversations. Coordinators of

the young adult program were thrilled to see the attendance at the meetings double from last year.

On the adult side, the presentations were just as inspirational and reinforced the Camp Meeting theme, “Show Us Your Glory.” Messages were delivered

by Upper Columbia Conference President Minner Labrador and Armando Miranda, Sr., former vice-president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

“Camp meeting is a great time for us to come together as a family of God and recharge, get inspired and equip ourselves for ministry,” said Texico Conference Executive Secretary/Treasurer Phil Robertson.

By Debby Márquez Communication Director

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 43

Texico Conference News

God First

Sandia View Academy Sets Tone for New School Year

CORRALES, N.M. – High school is the most unique time in one’s life. Whether you are a recent 2018 graduate still fresh out of school or are a graduate of long ago, there is no denying that memories, whether good or bad, are an integral part of the entire high school experience.

At Sandia View Academy (SVA), educators and mentors strive to create happy memories for each student.

However, we strive even harder to build character.

For this new school year, I am committed to our school mission and helping to pave the way for our students to develop a Christ-loving worldview that positively influences their decisions and their lifestyles. Our goal is to integrate both faith and learning so that ultimately, our students will grow stronger academically and keep a steadfast connection with our Savior.

Spirituality. Over the years, SVA teachers have upheld the Adventist philosophy of education in creating opportunities for each student to develop a relationship with Jesus.

Hence, every Monday morning our school begins the week with spiritual emphasis and gathers for chapel. We worship God through song, prayer, testimony and Bible study, and believe that this Biblical encouragement and connecting with God sets the tone for the week.

44 RECORD MAGAZINE

Our worship however is not limited to just Mondays. Classes begin and end the period with prayer and a devotional takes place during the first period of every day. We hold fast to God’s promise in Matthew 6:33 that if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, all things will be given to us. In putting God first, He will envelop the entire academic program.

Vision. Educating for eternity requires a vision that reaches beyond our own needs and helps to meet the needs of others. There is no greater need for man than to know and have a relationship with Jesus.

As Sandia View Academy students prepare for citizenship in the new earth, students must share the vision of doing good on this earth. For this reason, SVA students actively participate in serving the community by sharing basic human needs like food, clothing and companionship.

We also help meet others’ spiritual needs by sharing what God can do in their lives; how God gives hope. So far, students have lent a hand at the Corrales Food Bank and sent donations of clothing and toys to charity organizations. SVA’s monthly community service program helps our students to envision the world as a better place while inviting others to know Jesus personally.

Action. Mission orientation comes from developing our own spiritual lives, having a vision for community outreach, and taking action! SVA provides consistent opportunities for students and teachers to take action in service. We exercise mission-mindedness, academic excellence and Christlike compassion.

This year, Sandia View Academy students have already started taking action to excel in schoolwork, in service to the community, and in developing deeper relationships with Jesus. Answering God’s call to go into all the world begins with training young people to take action for God! We recognize the a holy command for action in Matthew 28:19, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Taking God’s laws of love and service and transforming them into real-world action is what SVA represents. This is at the heart of Adventist education.

By Chanda C. Castañeda Chanda Castañeda is the new principal of Sandia View Academy. She is a strong believer in Adventist education and has been teaching since 2007. Chanda has experience teaching grades 7-12 and is currently working on a Ph.D. in Global and Comparative Education.

Texico Conference News

Sea of Miracles

Rio Rancho Church VBX Focuses on Mission RIO RANCHO, N.M. – This year’s Vacation Bible Experience (VBX) at the Rio Rancho Seventh-day Adventist Church reached across shorelines. The VBX theme was “Sea of Miracles: Where Kids Get Caught by Jesus’ Love” and took place from June 13-17, 2018, with a special focus on mission. Besides participating in the usual fun VBX activities, the Rio Rancho kids completed chores at home throughout the week and emptied their personal piggy banks to raise a total of $270 to buy MadiDrops for families in India. A MadiDrop

is a water purification tablet that can treat up to 20 liters of water per day for 12 months. As a result of their efforts, the Rio Rancho kids will be helping more than 35 families in India have clean water.

In total, 24 children attended the VBX meetings which included seven visitors that were non-Adventist. “The number of visitors grew quickly after the first night,” said Priscilla Razon, assistant coordinator of the Rio Rancho VBX. “One visitor had so much fun that she invited her sister to join her the

second night. On the third night, her sister invited a friend. It was fun to see the kids happy about helping families on the other side of the world.” This is not the first time the Rio Rancho church has carried out a special mission project during their VBX. Last year, the VBX kids sold cookie cutters to help fight hunger in their community.

By Debbie Márquez Communication Director

Grand Opening

La Roca Church Celebrates New Facility ALBUQUERQUE – The Albuquerque La Roca Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated the grand opening of its new facility on May 19. The La Roca church recently purchased a fully furnished former Baptist church in the North Valley community in Albuquerque. Over 100 people were in attendance for the celebration and were happy to be accompanied by Texico Conference President Lee-Roy Chacon, who took this special opportunity to ordain church elders and deacons.

“I really enjoyed listening to how God

has led this church and am very happy to see how enthusiastic the members are to start spreading the gospel in their new community,” said Chacon.

Over the past years, the La Roca congregation had rented various places for worship and were eager to find a new church home. “We are very happy for La Roca,” said Elder Chacon. “Praise God for this new place of worship and pray for continued blessings over this new facility and congregation!”

By Debbie Márquez Communication Director

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2018 45

Texico Conference News

Youth Host Week of Prayer

Roswell Sees Potential for God’s Service In Their Youth ROSWELL, N.M. – The Pathfinder and Adventurer Clubs at the Roswell English Seventh-day Adventist Church demonstrated their passion for Christ and leadership abilities during a Spring week of prayer. From March 17-24, the youth presented a nightly devotional message and on closing day, they led the Sabbath morning worship service. Throughout the week, the youth spoke about young leaders found in the Bible such as Samuel, Joseph, David and Mary, the mother of Jesus. They told these stories to remind the members that although we

do not always understand God’s ways, He has a purpose and a plan for us. He is in control and is with us every step of the way.

Over the last year, the Roswell English Pathfinder and Adventurer Clubs have been involved in various activities including participating in an ongoing food drive. The food drive supplies monthly deliveries to Harvest Ministries, a non-profit organization which provides meals to the homeless. The clubs also participated in a donation drive for The Roswell Refuge which benefits women

Revelation Seminar

and children in crisis. Last Christmas, the clubs sent shoeboxes filled with gifts to children in need overseas through a project called “Operation Christmas Child.” The clubs are also participating in a Revelation prophecy Bible study with Roswell church elders, Tom and Sherryl Jordan.

The Roswell English church is proud to have such a dedicated, Christ-centered group of young people.

By Dora Y. Paz

Española Valley Bilingual Welcomes Visitors ESPAÑOLA, N.M. – The Española Valley Bilingual Seventh-day Adventist Church spent the early part of the year preparing for an important week-long Revelation seminar that drew a significant number of visitors. From May 5-11, 2018, the Española Valley Bilingual church welcomed 67 visitors, and 20 of them attended every night. Visitors said they were encouraged to attend by friends and family members, but most of them learned about the meetings through a promotional flyer they received from the church in the mail.

46 RECORD MAGAZINE

Leading up to the evangelistic meetings, Pastor Ricardo Castro and church members conducted city-wide prayer walks and visited several non-members.

Castro believes the Holy Spirit was hard at work and is excited that the Española Valley Bilingual church is now preparing for several baptisms and lots of Bible studies. May God bless this congregation and continue to touch the hearts of its visitors and members.

By Debbie Márquez Communication Director

Classified Ads 47 | Announcements 48 | Obituaries 48

Back Pages

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young-thinking SDA couple who live near San Marcos, Texas. Needs include light housekeeping, general care and assistance, and light, simple food preparation for two meals daily. Caregivers provide for most basic needs.

Would prefer someone who enjoys life, has sense of humor, energy and loves the Lord. Benefits include room, board, nice private room with bath, mutually agreed upon time off and salary. For details, call: 512.265.5895 or 512.845.4196.

Union College seeks full-time professor of communication

with strong experience in emerging media and public relations beginning July 2019. Doctorate is preferred.

Please submit a curriculum vitae to Dr. Mark Robison, Humanities Division chair, at Mark.Robison@UCollege.edu

Andrews University Seeks Staff Counselor & Prevention Coordinator.

In consultation with the Director, provide leadership in mental health prevention initiatives for the student population, with the vision of assisting students in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development, and adjustment. As member of the Counseling & Testing Center clinical team, provide individual, couple, and group counseling; available for after-office hours, clinical

consultations, and student crisis interventions; maintain an assigned caseload and provide consultations on issues related to mental health. Report to the Director of Counseling & Testing Center.

Andrews.edu/admres/jobs/show/ staff_salary#job_

Union College invites applicants for an Accounting faculty position.

Qualified applicants will have an MBA or Masters in Accounting, a certification and should be a committed member of the SDA Church.

A doctorate is preferred.

Find more information at UCollege.edu/faculty-openings or contact Barry Forbes at Barry.Forbes@UCollege.edu

It Is Written is seeking applications for a full-time Planned Giving Field Representative. The candidate

must be a highly motivated individual, able to work from a home office, travel routinely to communicate with supporters, and represent the ministry at assigned events. NAD trust services certification is preferred but not required to apply. If interested, please visit AdventistMediaCenter.com to download an application and email application and resume to MMendoza@AdventistMediaCenter.com

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

seeks Vice President for Enrollment Management to be responsible for meeting the enrollment goals of the university. The vice president oversees the functions of

undergraduate and graduate recruitment, admissions, financial aid counseling for prospective students, and the Assist/PFE programs. Full job description: Southern.edu/jobs

transportation, as needed.

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seeks Dean for the School of Education and Psychology (SEP) and responsible for planning, organization, staffing, direction and evaluation of the academic disciplines of the SEP. The SEP Dean is also responsible for continuous development of the SEP’s strategic plan.

An earned doctorate in the field of education or psychology is required. Full job description: Southern.edu/jobs

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

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seeks CIRC Lead Programmer/Analyst in the School of Computing. This position oversees/coordinates work of students/staff engaged in software development/analysis. B.S. in Computer Science or similar and five years of programming experience.

Graduate education in computer science preferred.

Full job description: Southern.edu/jobs

The Clergy Move Center™ at Stevens Worldwide Van Lines is The

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Call us for all your relocation needs! Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Contact Marcy Danté at 800.766.1902 for a free estimate. Visit us at ApexMoving.com/Adventist

Summit Ridge Retirement Village

is an Adventist community in a rural setting that offers affordable homes or apartments and caring neighbors, with a fellowship you'll enjoy. On-site church, planned activities and

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Back Pages Wellness Secrets’5 day health retreat could be the most

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40thWeimar Institute Anniversary

We’re celebrating 40 years of God’s blessings at Weimar Institute this year! If you attended academy or pursued higher education here, join us November 2-4, 2018 and reconnect with friends. More information: Weimar.edu/alumni

Southern Adventist University

offers master’s degrees in business, computer science, counseling, education, global community development, nursing, religion and social work. Flexibility is provided through some online and many on-campus

48 RECORD MAGAZINE

programs. Financial aid may be available. For more information, call 423.236.2585 or visit Southern.edu/GraduateStudies

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Announcements Alumni Weekend for Spanish-

American Seminary and Sandia View Academy – Oct. 11-13, 2018 in Corrales, N.M. Honor classes are years that end in 3 or 8.

Theme: “Almost Home.”

Speaker: David Martinez, Class of 1981. Festivities begin Thursday evening with dinner and karaoke in the SVCS gym at 6 p.m. Go to SandiaViewAcademyAlumni.org for information about lodging, Balloon Fiesta, and weekend activities. Email us at: SVARocks@gmail.com if you have questions.

Obituaries Hutson, Jennie Matilda, born Aug.

22, 1919, Moline, Ill.; died May 23, 2018, Harrah, Okla.

Church membership: Summit Ridge Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by one sister, Etta Garner, and three brothers, Eli, Russell

Jeroline “Jeri” Wilson was born

one mile north of Keene to Albert and Lillie Richter on October 16, 1918. She passed away at home in Sachse, Texas, on March 31, 2018, at the age of 99.

Jeroline was preceded in death by her husband, Robert A. M. Wilson; daughter, Janet Gayle Wilson; parents, Albert and Lillie Richter; sisters, Maude Jones, Annie Mae Branum, Lucille Crockett and Edna Schisler; brothers, Robert Richter, Claude Richter and Johnnie Richter. She is survived by her daughters, Sharon J. Wilson, of the home in Sachse, and Rhonda E. Walthall and son-in-law, Ron Walthall, of Combine, Texas; one grandson and wife, Kevin and Paige Walthall, of Bremerton, Washington; one granddaughter, Rachel Walthall, of Dallas, Texas; two sisters, Helen Barber and Loneta Pauley, both of Keene, Texas; one cousin and husband, Mildred and Dale Sanders, of Garland, Texas; and a host of nieces and nephews. Interment was at the Dallas-Ft. Worth National Cemetery. and Ray. Survivors: stepson, Ray Hutson, Ardmore, Okla.; two sisters, Nell Sabes, Harrah, Okla, and June Weeks, Alvarado, Tex.

Milton, Lionel Joseph, born Aug. 21,

1920, New Orleans, La.; died June 3, 2018, Baton Rouge, La. Church membership: Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: wife, Margaret Washington Milton, of Baton Rouge; daughter, Gail M. Metoyer; stepdaughter, Yvette Butler; adopted son, Durandel Ford; five grandchildren; three great-grandsons.

Harsha, George Myron, born July 31, 1927, Cocoa, Fla.; died June 4, 2018, Rice, Wash. Church membership: Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Church service included colporter, chaplain, and pastor in the Texas, Arkansas, Florida, Washington DC, and Idaho conferences. Survivors: wife, Lura Mae Davis; three daughters, Kathy Reed, Willow-Brenda Huffine,

and Lori McClintock; seven grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Stephens, Mary Gertrude, born Dec. 16, 1929, Charleston, Ark.; died May 30, 2018, Calhoun, Ga. Church membership: Summit Ridge Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: sister, Opal Jones (Bert), Heber Springs, Ark.; son, Chris Tucker (Mary), Hermitage, Tenn.; daughter, Thelma Vigneron, Harrah, Okla.; son, Wesley Tucker, Murphy, N.C.; daughter, Judie Plumley (Keith), Calhoun, Ga.; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren.

Hansen, Paula Jean, born Sept. 3, 1930, Jackson, Miss.; died July 10, 2018, Ardmore, Okla. Church membership: Ardmore Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by her parents, James O. “Jack” Lightsey and Pauline (Davis) Lightsey, and husband, Thomas

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Your Best Pathway to Health is a humatiarian service of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in partnership for the Ft. Worth mega clinic with the Southwestern Union Conference, the Texas Conference, and the Southwest Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Back Pages Hansen. Survivors: four sons, Dan (Julia); Mark (Vicki); Chris (Terri); Tracy (Cheryl); nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Nancy Barclay (Hugh).

Hollifield, Kathleen M. Boggess, born

Nov. 2, 1931, Okay, Okla.; died Aug.16, 2016, Muskogee, Okla. Church membership: Muskogee Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by husband, Jeff Davis Hollifield. Survivors: children, Michael W. Hollifield, Sr. (Christine), Ft. Towson, Okla.; Glenn D. Hollifield (Francis), Bartlesville, Okla.; John E. Hollifield (Debbie), Linda K. Hollifield, and Jennifer E. Davis (Lemar), Muskogee, Okla.; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren.

Ballew, Phillis Gibbs, born March

23, 1935, Holdenville, Okla.;

died May 30, 2018, Harrah, Okla. Church membership: Summit Ridge Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by husband, Daniel Ballew. Survivors: son, John K. Wiley (Teri); sister, Algie Didlaukies; cousin, Glenda Bales Dusek; one granddaughter.

Lake, Tammy Taylor, born Sept.

30, 1958, Little Rock, Ark.; died April 2, 2018, Little Rock, Ark. Preceded in death by her parents, John and Barbara Hicks Taylor. Survivors: brother, Mike Taylor, Little Rock, Ark.

Lee, Lena Mae, born Jan. 25,

1920, Brindley, Ark.; died May 15, 2018, Little Rock, Ark. Church membership: Little Rock Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: son Manerd Desha Lee, Jr. (Tyla), Tex.; son, David Lee

(Janie), Brinkley, Ark.; son, Charles Lee, Bryant, Ark.

Submissions Back Pages: To submit family milestones, obituaries, announcements or address changes, visit SouthwesternAdventist.org/Communication or call 817.295.0476.

Skinner, Faye, died May 12,

2018, Beebe, Ark. Preceded in death by husband, Virgil. Church membership: Little Rock Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Kathy Skinner, Lonoke, Ark.; two daughters, Janet Louise McNew, Sherwood, Ark., and Sarah Jane Rhoads, Lonoke, Ark.; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

The Record also accepts expanded obituaries. For submission and cost information, contact Record@SWUC.org or call 817.295.0476.

News and Articles: Send your local church news and high-resolution photos to your local conference communication representative listed on page 2.

Sawyer, Adelfa, born Sept. 3,

If you are interested in writing for the Record, email Record@SWUC.org or visit SouthwesternAdventist.org/ Communication to review our writer’s guidelines.

1958, Philippines; died Feb. 21, 2018. Church membership: Shreveport First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Survivors: son, Donny Sawyer, Shreveport, La.; daughter, Esther Del Sawyer, Concord, N.C.

Advertising: Contact Bradley Ecord at BEcord@ swuc.org or 817.295.0476

Sabbath Sunset Calendar September-October 2018

All 2018 Sunset Calendars are available at SouthwesternAdventist.org/sunset

50 RECORD MAGAZINE

9/7 1/5 9/14 7:18 7:48 6:44 7:16 7:25 7:57 7:12 7:36 7:06 7:36 6:45 7:14 7:08 7:38 6:53 7:25 6:55 7:28 7:02 7:29 6:47 7:19 6:59 7:31 6:41 7:08 7:08 7:40 6:37 7:07 7:14 7:42 6:54 7:24 7:01 7:34

7:57 AbileneAbilene Albuquerque 7:26 Albuquerque AmarilloAmarillo 8:07 Brownsville 7:44 Brownsville 7:45 Dallas Dallas 7:23 El PasoEl Paso Fort Worth 7:47 Fort Worth Gallup 7:35 Gallup 7:38 Gentry Gentry HoustonHouston 7:38 Little Rock 7:29 Little Rock Muskogee 7:42 Muskogee New Orleans 7:17 New Orleans Oklahoma Oklahoma City City7:50 RoswellRoswell 7:17 San Antonio 7:50 San Antonio Shreveport 7:33 Shreveport 7:44 Tulsa Tulsa

1/12 9/21 7:09 7:38 6:35 7:06 7:16 7:47 7:05 7:28 6:57 7:26 6:37 7:05 7:00 7:29 6:43 7:15 6:45 7:18 6:54 7:20 6:38 7:09 6:49 7:21 6:32 6:59 6:58 7:30 6:28 6:57 7:07 7:33 6:45 7:14 6:51 7:23

1/19 9/28 7:01 7:29 6:26 6:56 7:07 7:37 6:58 7:21 6:49 7:17 6:29 6:56 6:51 7:19 6:34 7:04 6:36 7:07 6:46 7:12 6:29 6:59 6:40 7:11 6:25 6:51 6:49 7:19 6:19 6:48 6:59 7:24 6:37 7:05 6:42 7:13

1/26 10/5 6:54 7:20 6:18 6:46 6:59 7:27 6:52 7:13 6:41 7:08 6:21 6:47 6:44 7:10 6:26 6:54 6:28 6:57 6:40 7:03 6:21 6:49 6:32 7:01 6:18 6:52 6:41 7:10 6:12 6:38 6:52 7:16 6:30 6:56 6:34 7:03

2/2 10/12 6:47 7:11 6:11 6:37 6:51 7:17 6:47 7:06 6:35 6:59 6:15 6:38 6:37 7:01 6:19 6:45 6:20 6:47 6:34 6:55 6:14 6:40 6:25 6:51 6:12 6:34 6:34 7:00 6:05 6:29 6:47 7:08 6:23 6:47 6:26 6:53

2/9 10/19 5:42 7:03 5:05 6:28 5:45 7:08 5:43 6:59 5:29 6:50 5:10 6:30 5:32 6:53 5:12 6:36 5:14 6:38 5:29 6:48 5:08 6:31 5:18 6:42 5:07 6:26 5:28 6:51 4:59 6:21 5:42 7:00 5:18 6:39 5:20 6:44

2/16 10/26 2/23 11/2 5:38 6:55 5:35 6:48 5:00 6:19 4:56 6:12 5:40 7:00 5:37 6:53 5:40 6:53 5:39 6:48 5:25 6:43 5:22 6:36 5:06 6:23 5:03 6:16 5:27 6:45 5:25 6:38 5:07 6:27 5:04 6:20 5:09 6:29 5:05 6:22 5:25 6:41 5:23 6:35 5:04 6:23 5:00 6:15 5:13 6:33 5:10 6:26 5:04 6:19 5:01 6:13 5:23 6:42 5:19 6:35 4:55 6:13 4:52 6:06 5:38 6:54 5:36 6:48 5:14 6:31 5:11 6:25 5:15 6:35 5:11 6:28

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