November | December 2024

Our Core Beliefs

Editor’s Note

In 2024, the Record magazine has been exploring six of the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The November/December issue examines the 25th fundamental belief, the Second Coming of Christ. This issue also features Carlton Byrd, Southwest Region Conference president, on the cover.

In this final installment of our Adventist beliefs series, we look at the Second Coming, the culmination of humanity's saga. We live in perpetual anticipation for that great day, looking forward to seeing our Savior face to face. We long for the end of pain and suffering, and the reunion of loved ones. Our challenge as we wait is to do the most we can with the time we've been given, keeping our focus heavenward.

Kristina P. Busch

Kristina P. Busch

Editorial

EDITOR

KRISTINA P. BUSCH | KBusch@swuc.org

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LORI FUTCHER | LFutcher@swuc.org

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P.O. BOX 4000, BURLESON, TX 76097 817.295.0476 | SouthwesternAdventist.org

President Carlos Craig

Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks

Treasurer John Page

Undertreasurer Bo Just

VP Church Ministries Tony Anobile

VP Education Carol Campbell

VP Multicultural Ministries Osvaldo Rigacci

Children’s Ministries Sonia Canó

Church Planting Robin Lopez

Communication Kristina Busch

Community Services Bo Gendke

Evangelism English Stephen Brooks

Evangelism Spanish Osvaldo Rigacci

Family Ministries Letty Craig

Health Ministries Randy Phillips

Human Resources Joel Wallace

Men’s Ministries Tony Anobile

Ministerial Tony Anobile

Ministerial Spouses Letty Craig

Personal Ministries Stephen Brooks

Prayer Ministries Helvis Moody

Prison Ministries Tyrone Boyd

PARL Stephen Brooks

Revolving Fund Joel Wallace

Sabbath School Sonia Canó

Secondary Education Mike Furr

Stewardship Tony Anobile

Planned Giving/Trust Services Bo Just

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Not Just a Dream But An Assured Hope

Christ’s Second Coming is a beacon of hope for believers, promising a conclusion to the story of salvation. In this doctrine, we find the very essence of Christian faith and hope.

This belief, deeply embedded in our identity, heralds a time when the dead in Christ will be resurrected and, along with the living remnant, will be made immortal and ascend to heaven. As we look forward to the Second Coming, we live in a state of perpetual readiness, balancing the routines of daily life with the anticipation of divine fulfillment (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

We’re challenged to remain constantly ready for Christ’s Second Coming, a readiness that entails more than just merely passive waiting. To stay prepared, we’re encouraged to cultivate a spiritual journey with God through prayer, Bible study, community worship and witnessing. These spiritual practices help to align our values and actions with the teachings of Christ and reflect the hope of His return (Titus 2:11-14).

Readiness means living out the principles we see in Jesus’ life. By doing acts of service, promoting peace and advocating for the marginalized, we embody the life-changing power of the

Gospel. These acts prepare us for the Second Coming and also contribute to the awareness of God’s kingdom here and now (Matthew 25:31-46).

The perception of Jesus’ return as imminent, despite the passage of generations, remains a powerful aspect of our belief. This proximity isn't measured in human time but in the urgency with which we are called to live. Christ’s soon coming serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal importance of preparedness (2 Peter 3:8-14).

This concept encourages a perspective that transcends the length of our wait, focusing instead on the aspect of readiness. We are living in God’s eternal now, where every moment is an opportunity to experience and reveal the love of Christ. We recognize the present reality of God’s kingdom while anticipating its future fulfillment.

The emphasis on Christ’s advent in our Church's name highlights the central position this belief holds in our identity. It reflects a unified commitment to the promise of Christ’s return, shaping our movement’s mission, values and practices. This focus serves as a unifying force, binding us together in a shared hope and purpose.

In an uncertain world, the assurance of Christ’s return offers an anchor for our faith as we view our lives through the lens of God’s plan of redemption. Christ’s return isn’t just a dream, but an assured hope. This key aspect of our faith demands readiness, shapes identity and transcends generations. As Christians navigate today’s challenges, the promise of Christ’s return, emphasized in Revelation 22:20, guides us toward a future of eternal joy. Jesus’ promise to us is, “Yes, I am coming soon." a

By Osvaldo Rigacci Vice President for Multicultural Ministries

A History of Hope

A typical definition of hope found in dictionaries is: a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. I personally find this definition too superficial. The covenant God has with us is not grounded in human emotion. According to the Bible, hope is a certainty, an assurance founded on Jesus’ words from Revelation 22:12: “Look, I am coming soon!”

Ancient Promises

Genesis 3:15 introduces the first assurance of deliverance from the present human condition with a promise given almost 6,000

years ago. This message has a special connection to John 3:16; both passages contain the everlasting Gospel in a nutshell. Namely, the destruction of the serpent/Satan and the gift of God in the sacrifice of His Son.

After the flood, Abraham received a promise that he never saw while alive (Genesis 50:24; Hebrews 11:13). Nevertheless, God will fulfill His promise with Abraham at His Second Coming. This is why throughout the Bible we see the phrase, “the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” Even though these patriarchs were already dead, the hope of the resurrection was certain.

By the 15th century B.C., Moses was called for a mission, and because of his transgression, he was not allowed to enter Canaan, but by God’s grace he was taken up to heaven instead, representing those who will be resurrected at Christ’s Second Coming.

By the 10th century B.C., David received the promise that Israel shall never lack a king on David’s throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This is fulfilled in the person of Jesus; He is called in the New Testament the “Son of David,” (Mark 10:47; Luke 18:38). He will be the everlasting King, the King of kings.

In the sixth century B.C., Daniel received prophetic visions of future events with details and historical precision leading up to the coming of our Lord. Daniel’s book ends with the words, “As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance,” Daniel 12:13.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem according to prophecy (Matthew 2:5). By then, the 70-week prophecy from Daniel was about to end (Daniel 9:20-27). The Jewish nation had a determined time to study the sacred Scripture, understand the time they were living in and become a beacon of light in this world as they would welcome the long-expected Messiah. That was the first coming of Christ to this world. That took place 4,000 years after the promise was given to Adam and Eve

in Genesis 3:15. However, Israel failed drastically by upholding human understanding above God’s revelation, culture instead of Biblical truth, “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil,” John 3:19.

Hope Revived

Five centuries later, mainstream Christendom departed from the truth. The Bible was substituted with human tradition. The hope in Christ’s coming was forgotten. This condition lasted until the 16th century. Of course, God always had His people. During those dark years, the Waldensians and others were still preaching the blessed hope.

of Christ’s Second Coming. The seventh-day Sabbath is the memorial of creation, and the term “Adventist” points directly to the blessed hope of the Second Coming of Christ.

Love will triumph, and we will be home forever.

The Protestant Reformation came as a reaction to the hopeless state of the church in the Middle Ages. God, then, through Martin Luther and other human instruments, brought forth the hope of salvation by faith. “The righteous will live by faith,” Romans 1:17.

Several centuries later, William Miller preached the message of the 2,300 evenings and mornings based on Daniel 8:14. According to his calculations, Jesus would come at a precise time in October of 1844. The calculation was right, but the expected event was not. Thus, Revelation 10:9 was fulfilled: the message was sweet in the mouth, but bitter in the stomach.

From the Millerite movement, the Seventh-day Adventist Church was born. Our name was chosen based on biblical teachings and on our certainty

Now we are at the threshold of eternity. It is our turn to accomplish the task that former generations were looking forward to being part of and that heavenly angels would like to participate in. Thus, the everlasting Gospel will be preached to all nations (Matthew 24:14). Even by secular standards, most people are perceiving that a political, economic, ecological and moral crisis is approaching. On the other hand, prophecies are being fulfilled, characters are being transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, people are coming into the kingdom of God through the convincing evidence from the Scriptures; while in heaven, Jesus is working in the Most Holy Place of the Sanctuary as our lawyer, defending our cases against the accusations of Satan (Zechariah 3:1-5; Revelation 12:10). All heaven is working for our salvation.

This prophetic movement of Revelation 14:6-13 will be victorious through Christ. Very soon it will be done. Love will triumph, and we will be home.

As Ellen G. White describes in The Great Controversy, “The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.” a

By Joaquim Azevedo, Ph.D.

Azevedo is a religion professor at Southwestern Adventist University.

My BlessedHope Living in Anticipation of Christ’s Soon Return

Note from the Editor: The following is the sixth and final article in our 2024 series featuring a president from within the Southwestern Union territory as they explore one Adventist fundamental belief and how it has affected their life, faith and ministry.

Raised in a family where ministry was a way of life, Carlton Byrd spent his early years changing slides on an overhead projector under a tent with his brother, his father’s voice echoing in the night sky with an urgent message of hope and redemption. Even then, he

sensed a personal calling to the Gospel ministry. Byrd’s father was a pastor and his mother a church school teacher and principal. He grew up participating in church programs, from Pathfinders to choir, and helping at his father’s evangelistic meetings and tent revivals.

Byrd recalls distributing handbills door-to-door to invite the community, building screens from sheets and twoby-fours for the presentations and later on, singing with his brother and sister as the "Byrd Trio," while his mother played the piano. “Ever since I was a child,” he says, “I’ve loved to see people give their lives to Christ.”

Despite his early devotion to the church, Byrd briefly considered a different path while a student at Oakwood University. Double-majoring in theology and business management, he was tempted by internships at corporations like ITT Hartford and Dow Corning that offered promising opportunities. Nevertheless, Byrd realized his true calling was in ministry.

“While the business background and education gave me a greater understanding of accounting statements, whether they were profit and loss statements or income statements, budget sheets or whatnot—it's not what I wanted to do,” Byrd says. “The love of soul winning, seeing people accept Christ as their Savior—those are the things that really got to me.”

Upon graduating from Oakwood, Byrd embraced God’s call to pastor a small three-church district in Mississippi for the South Central Conference. Byrd then attended seminary at Andrews University, and after graduating, he moved to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where he ran his first tent revival and baptized 19 people. During

his tenure in Tuscaloosa, he married Danielle, whom he had met at Oakwood University.

The couple then moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he continued to develop an innovative approach to ministry, baptizing several hundred people and building a new church facility to accommodate the growing congregation. Byrd’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life, coupled with traditional outreach methods, turned struggling churches into thriving communities.

Hope Despite Tragedy

Byrd’s longing for the Second Coming is deeply personal. In September of 1999, Byrd and his wife, along

Our Core Beliefs Feature

with their four-and-a-half-month-old daughter, Caitlyn, were traveling from Nashville to Tuscaloosa, where Byrd was expected to preach for a special Sabbath. The axle on their borrowed vehicle broke unexpectedly, causing it to roll over several times. Caitlyn’s injuries were extensive, and she passed away a few days later in the hospital, held in her father’s arms.

“You can imagine what that did to us,” says Byrd. “We'd always talked about the Second Coming, but now we see it. Our motivation is that we want to see suffering end. We want to see our little baby girl again. Everything we do is because we know what God has done for us in this restoration process after losing a child like this in such a horrific way.” For Byrd, the fact of Christ’s return is not just theology. It’s a promise. It’s hope and comfort that has sustained him through the loss of his daughter.

In the weeks that followed their daughter’s death, the Byrds were devastated. At the advice of their conference president, they sought counseling, which proved beneficial as they processed their grief. Instead of withdrawing from the ministry, Byrd became even more dedicated to making sure everyone knew about the love of God. He continued to lead his congregations with purpose and urgency, sharing his testimony as a source of encouragement for others facing their own struggles.

“We want Jesus. We want to see our daughter. We want to share this wonderful Advent message with as many people as possible to hasten the soon return of Jesus Christ,” he says. “In order to do that, we can't do maintenance ministry. We have to do meaningful, appreciable ministry.”

During their remaining time in Nashville, Byrd and Danielle were blessed to welcome two daughters, Christyn and Caileigh, who brought new joy into their lives while reminding them still of their mission and heavenly hope.

“Our message hasn’t changed, but we must be innovative. We need to be in the cities, in the communities.”

The Byrd family next joined what is now the World Harvest Outreach Seventh-day Adventist Church in Houston, Texas, where he pastored until 2006, when he accepted the call to pastor the Atlanta-Berean Seventhday Adventist Church in Georgia. At the time, with more than 3,000 members, this was the largest Adventist church in the North American Division that wasn’t attached to a university or institute. The ministry prospered, and over the course of five years, nearly 1,900 people were baptized. His leadership also extended beyond the pulpit as he collaborated with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to secure a $5.2 million grant to build a 50-unit senior housing complex. Additionally, Byrd was involved in purchasing back the church's former property and converting it into Georgia's largest private food pantry, serving thousands of families.

Ministry Moves

In 2010, Byrd became the speaker and director for Breath of Life Ministries, a role he held through 2021 and that led to four church plants and thousands of baptisms. “I believe in meeting people where they are,” Byrd

explains. “Media ministry allows us to share the Adventist message beyond our churches, reaching people in their homes and communities.”

In 2012, he became the senior pastor of the Oakwood University Church in Huntsville, Alabama. There, he led in the construction of the K-12 Oakwood Adventist Academy building that became a resource for Adventist education and community engagement, and a 22,000 square-foot family life center that included a barbershop, health clinic, gymnasium, commercial kitchen, classrooms, community service areas and vegetarian food market.

While the Byrds were at Oakwood, Danielle worked as the Field Services Department Director at Breath of Life Ministries and as an adjunct instructor at Oakwood Adventist Academy. In 2014, their youngest daughter, Carissa, was born.

In 2021, Byrd took on the role of president of the Southwest Region Conference. Determined to cut through the sometimes-slow organizational processes involved in ministry, Byrd got to work immediately, focusing on streamlining decisions and taking quick action to meet the immediate needs of the community. Together with the

conference’s team of pastors, ministry and lay leaders, volunteers and members, new initiatives are making measurably significant impacts.

One of the many ongoing projects of the Southwest Region Conference is the Dallas Project, which has merged several congregations into one vibrant, mission-driven church. This brings together three current churches whose members are committed to the project and its promise as a hub for community outreach and spiritual growth. The vision for the Dallas Project is the combination of that new church with a new conference office building and a new K-12 educational institution.

“We’re not just merging resources,” Byrd says. “We’re creating a space where people will encounter Christ.” Through various ministries, including evangelistic meetings, educational support and social services, the Dallas Project seeks to connect with people in meaningful ways, bringing the message of God’s love and the hope of the

Second Coming to those who may not have encountered it before. Additionally, Byrd is committed to investing in Adventist education by creating incentives and assistance programs that have already led to a dramatic increase in enrollment.

Unchanging Message, New Methods

As Byrd continues to lead the Southwest Region Conference, he remains committed to sharing God’s messages of love and His promise to return for His children while exploring innovative ways to share these messages. He encourages pastors and lay leaders to step outside their comfort zones and engage with their communities in ways that reflect the urgency and hope of Christ’s return. “Our message hasn’t changed, but we must be innovative,” he says. “We need to be in the cities, in the communities.”

Byrd’s enthusiasm for sharing the Gospel and his love for God and His people are evident. With a life

dedicated to sharing God’s promises, he has continuously sought to connect people with Christ in authentic and meaningful ways. In local churches, Byrd advocates for “seeker-sensitive” worship services and outreach programs that are intriguing and inviting to those who might feel that church isn’t for them. He believes in breaking down barriers and making the Seventh-day Adventist Church visible and active in urban areas like the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. His approach is to support and empower his ministry colleagues to think creatively, embrace new methods and take bold steps in reaching out, resulting in significant impacts on the lives of those in their communities.

Living in Hope

For Byrd, the Second Coming holds a hope that has sustained him and served as a focus for ministry. Byrd is proud of and loves his daughters, Christyn, a medical student; Caileigh, a business resident; and Carissa, who is in fifth grade. His role as a father is similar to his focus in ministry, marked by a tenacious drive to share the hope of Christ’s return and the promise of joining Him in heaven with as many people as possible, including his wife, Danielle, and all of his daughters. “I want to go live with Jesus,” Byrd says. “And I want to bring as many people with me as I can.” a

By

Jessica Lozano. Lozano is a writer and freelancer based in Northwest Arkansas. Photos by Teshorn Jackson Photography. Carlton Byrd lives in Dallas with his wife, Danielle, and their youngest daughter, Carissa.

What Adventists Believe About The Second Coming of Christ

By Southwestern Union Communication and Adventist.org

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 we read a description of the Second Coming: “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

The Second Coming is a literal, global event. We’re told in Luke, “For the Son of Man in His day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other,” Luke 17:24.

We do not know when Christ will return, but we know He will. As Matthew recorded Jesus saying in Matthew 25:13, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

In vivid word pictures and poetry, the Bible tells of the triumphant coming of Christ in Revelation 19. When Jesus comes, He will lead an army of heavenly beings, also riding white horses and wearing clean, pure white robes.

Many of the Seventh-day Adventist beliefs were discovered after in-depth studies following the Great Disappointment in 1844 in which William Miller helped the world understand that Christ’s Second Coming was a literal promise, but made the mistake of setting an exact date. And as Christians learned more about scripture and God’s truth, they were more motivated to follow the Word and continue studying it.

The Second Coming is so important to Seventh-day Adventists that it’s part of the name—the word Advent

means “arrival.” It is the blessed hope of Adventists that Christ’s future return will be the climax to our story on earth.

To prepare for the Second Coming, read the Bible daily so that you can meditate on God’s Holy Word. Bible study and prayer through the Holy Spirit is our direct connection to the Savior we’re waiting for.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church rests its hope in Christ alone, in His promises and in His return.

We encourage you to take a closer look at this fundamental belief with your pastor or Bible study group or online at Adventist.org/second-coming. a

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

BELIEF #25:

The Second Coming of Christ

The Second Coming of Christ is the blessed hope of the church, the grand climax of the Gospel. The Saviour’s coming will be literal, personal, visible and worldwide. When He returns, the righteous dead will be resurrected and, together with the righteous living, will be glorified and taken to heaven, but the unrighteous will die. The almost complete fulfi llment of most lines of prophecy, together with the present condition of the world, indicates that Christ’s coming is near. The time of that event has not been revealed, and we are therefore exhorted to be ready at all times.

( Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:1-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:8; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; Revelation 1:7; 14:14-20; 19:11-21)

Adventist.org/second-coming

Getting Through Unhappy Holidays

By Michal Anne Whitcomb, Licensed Professional Counselor at Dallas Counseling Group

Make a plan

Anticipating the big dates of holidays or anniversaries can be anxietyprovoking. Having a clear plan for the day, with expectations set among your loved ones, can help to reduce stress and uncertainty.

Say no

The signs are all there: intricate pumpkin and mum arrangements on front porches, Christmas tree displays in local hardware stores and that giant coffee chain switching to their red cups. The holidays are approaching. This yearly occurrence evokes feelings of excitement and anticipation for many, but for some, it can trigger sadness, anxiety, irritability and dread. Why would anyone have such a negative response to this joyful time of year?

As a licensed counselor, I have sat with countless clients who feel drained by the schedule and expectations of the holiday season. They try to push through, attending all the parties, programs and family gatherings, all the while wishing they could crawl into a hole and skip the whole thing. “What’s wrong with me?” they ask, and often I respond, “Nothing is wrong with you. This is grief.”

Grief is a normal response to loss. If you’ve lived for any time at all, you know that life is full of loss. Therefore, grief is a part of life. Grief is always hard, but it seems to be amplified by the holiday season. Why? For starters, the holidays have a heavy focus on family, togetherness and joy. These things are particularly painful when grieving the loss of a loved one. All the traditions, mixed with memories of years past, keep the person’s absence front and center and the pain acute.

The reality is grief is not just limited to death. All sorts of circumstances can evoke a grief response, including things we wanted or needed but never received. We have been fed an idealized version of the holiday season. From Hallmark movies to picture-perfect families on social media and Christmas cards, we are sold the message that

every family should get along and share joyful moments all season long. Unfortunately, most of us don’t have perfect families. Difficult family relationships or dynamics that we might normally keep at bay with distance can become supercharged at holiday family gatherings. Being back in these relational contexts can bring up wounds from the past and leave us feeling deeply lonely.

Here are some strategies to help you get through the season.

Change it up

It can feel daunting to engage in the usual holiday traditions right after a loss, so give yourself permission to do something different. As time goes on, there may be traditions that you take a break from, others that you discontinue altogether and new traditions that form. After the unexpected death of my mother, our family decided to travel to New York City for Christmas. This allowed us to celebrate the season together while taking us out of a setting that would have been flooded with painful memories. That decision gave us the pacing we needed that first year. Since then, we have returned to many of the family traditions that we hold dear, and we have also formed new ones.

Holidays can be overwhelming. Give yourself permission to be choosy about which events you'll attend.

Find your people

Your people may not always be your biological family. Spend time with people who help you feel safe, supported and loved.

Take breaks

Allow yourself to step away from people who become overwhelming.

Maintain your self care

When life gets busy and stressful it seems that our self-care is the first thing to go. Prioritize exercise, rest, nutrition, enjoyed hobbies and time with supportive people.

Practice self compassion

Simply put, notice your emotions and thoughts without judgment. Ride the wave of your emotions, rather than trying to stop or change them. To quote my colleague and mentor, Kelly Slaven, “When we resist our emotions, we extend our suffering.”

Grief is real and valid. It's a longing for wholeness and restoration that will always be with us on this side of heaven. Until that great day, may the God who “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” (Psalms 147:3) be a comfort to you. a

A Vision for Church Growth

By Lori Futcher, Record Managing Editor

Under the camp meeting tent in the June heat, tears started running down Stephen Brooks’ face. For some time, he had been feeling the nudge to study for the ministry, but leaving a good job and moving to an unfamiliar place was just too risky. Now the words of evangelist E. E. Cleveland clarified Brooks’ calling. Two months later, he was in class as a theology major at Oakwood University.

Today, Stephen Brooks is the executive secretary for the Southwestern Union. He also serves as the director of evangelism. In this role, Brooks encourages and equips members to be active disciples of Christ. “Evangelism is not just for the professionals, the

well-trained and the credentialed,” he says.“It’s for everybody.”

Brooks has high aspirations for what could happen with this kind of involvement. Currently the union’s growth rate is around 3 percent. Through his initiative Project 10, Brooks believes that, by partnering with God, that number can increase to 10 percent.

Brooks is leading the Southwestern Union toward this goal with coordinated evangelism efforts in major cities, rallies like “Fanning the Flames of Evangelism” and the training of Bible workers within the union territory.

Last year, the Southwestern Union focused its evangelistic efforts in New Orleans and El Paso, partnering

with the Arkansas-Louisiana, Texico and Southwest Region conferences. Through coordinated local evangelistic meetings held in English and Spanish throughout the selected cities (sometimes in conjunction with city-wide meetings), the Southwestern Union is, in Brooks’ words, “fogging the devil’s kingdom” by evangelizing all parts of a city simultaneously. Brooks has noticed bumps in the number of baptisms and professions of faith during the quarters in which these events were held. This year, these same efforts were duplicated in Oklahoma City, in partnership with the Oklahoma Conference and the Southwest Region Conference.

But it isn’t only these cities where the union wants to see growth. Members everywhere are invited to join the Fanning the Flames rallies held throughout the union. At these rallies, individuals are inspired and equipped for evangelism. “We are trying to stir up evangelistic fervor,” says Brooks.

The next big step Brooks plans to take to increase the evangelism efforts in the Southwestern Union is to start training local members to become Bible workers. This key role supports churches that are giving evangelistic series, but there are currently so few trained Bible workers in the Southwestern Union territory that it’s often necessary to bring in Bible workers from other locations. Brooks wants to see the pool of Bible workers within the union increase through these efforts.

Referring to Matthew 9:37, where Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few,” Brooks asks, “If the harvest is plentiful and ready now, when do we need disciples for the harvest?” The answer is now.

“My sincere prayer and desire,” says Brooks, “is that every member would be a discipling disciple of Christ.” a

Helping Students Go, Grow & Multiply

By Tim Kripps, Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Education Director

The Arkansas-Louisiana (ARKLA) Conference operates 10 schools (nine elementary schools and one secondary school) supported by 70 full-time and part-time teachers and staff. The mission of the ARKLA Education Department is to support and assist our teachers as they develop the whole student–spiritually, mentally, physically and socially–in Christ-centered classrooms. We want our students to go, grow and multiply by striving for academic excellence (go), choosing Jesus daily (grow) and being witnesses to those around them (multiply).

Then

which encourages reflection on the past, and Proverbs 16:3, which emphasizes the importance of committing one’s plans to the Lord.

Now

For many years, the ARKLA Conference had both a music festival and an outdoor school. Last school year, due to costs and an attempt to give students an opportunity to visit OAA, the conference combined the two events, along with Lego robotics, forming the “We Are One” event. We Are One brought more than 100 students in grades 5-8 to OAA and culminated with a concert involving the attendees and OAA’s choir. The next We Are One event is scheduled for March 25-29, 2025.

causes. They also bring treats to those serving in fire and police departments and engage in monthly activities, such as feeding the homeless and assisting in food banks. Elementary students participate in the presentation of evangelism meetings and other family Bible events at their local churches, hand out literature and The Great Controversy, assist neighbors after disasters and lead out in church services.

Under the leadership of Principal Dean Waterman, OAA is embracing a brand-new era with the mindset of “Excellence Expected,” fouccusing on four key areas: academic performance, character development, intentional discipleship and outstanding co-curriculars.

ARKLA elementary schools impact their communities by engaging in various service projects. Students participate in activities like collecting essentials for the needy, making blankets and cards for the sick, doing yard work, tending community gardens and raising funds for charitable

The school's motto, “Academics, Character, Discipleship; Educating Spiritual Champions,” encapsulates its new mission statement, which reads: “Educate spiritual champions who have integrity in thought, word and action, exercise self-control in every circumstance, possess critical thinking skills, clarity of mind, and exhibit the courage of their convictions.”

Next

belonging. In this milestone

The first elementary school in the ARKLA Conference opened in Springfield, Ark., in 1896, according to ArklaSDAHistory.org. Then, in September 1924, Ozark Adventist Academy (OAA) began as the only boarding academy in the Southwestern Union. This year OAA is celebrating its centennial. This academy reflects on a proud legacy while looking forward to a promising future. The rich history of our alumni reminds us of OAA’s profound impact on countless lives, fostering a sense of community and belonging. In this milestone year, OAA draws inspiration from Deuteronomy 32:7,

Deuteronomy 32:7,

The ARKLA Conference schools are united in their mission to develop the whole student—spiritually, mentally, physically and socially. With a continued focus on academic excellence, character development and community engagement, ARKLA aims to foster a culture of collaboration and service among schools. We are committed to helping our students to go, grow and multiply. a

November

Oct. 30-5

NORTH AMERICAN DIVISION

Year-end Meetings

Live-streamed NADAdventist.org

1-3

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Prayer Retreat Wewoka Woods Adventist Center OkAdventist.org

1-3

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Engage Conference Houston Area TXYouth.org

2

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

ABC Television Christmas Special Live Recording, Dallas SouthwestRegionSDA.org

7

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE

Health Affirming Leadership Shreveport, Ala. MBelizaire@arklac.org

8-10

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Hispanic Elders & Family Retreat Wewoka Woods Adventist Center OkAdventist.org

8-10

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

Southern Louisiana Youth Federation LMassiah@swrgc.org

9

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Ordination Service

Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church TexasAdventist.org

13

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Winter YouthRush begins Literature@txsda.org

15-17

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Lay Leadership Training Part 1 Wewoka Woods Adventist Center OkAdventist.org

15-17

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Men’s Ministries Retreat Lakeview Camp and Retreat Center TexasAdventistMen.org

16

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Prison Ministries Emphasis and Training; East Texas Area TexasAdventist.org

22-24

SOUTHWESTERN UNION

Public Affairs and Religious Liberty Summit Shreveport, La. SouthwesternAdventist.org

27-28

Thanksgiving Holiday Union and Conference offices closed

December

6-8

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

Singles Enrichment Weekend Fort Worth, Tex. SouthwestRegionSDA.org

7

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Family Ministries Better Life Tour Edinburg Seventh-day Adventist Church ForeverOne.org

7

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA CONFERENCE

Lay Pastor Training Bossier City, La. LMelendez@arklac.org

14

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Family Ministries Better Life Tour Fort Worth First Seventh-day Adventist Church ForeverOne.org

24-25

Christmas Holiday Union and Conference offices closed

Pathfinders Witness God’s Promises Kept

GILLETTE, WYO. – The nearly 8,000 Pathfinders and volunteers from the Southwestern Union who attended the 2024 International Pathfinder Camporee, Aug. 6-12, were given evidence for their belief at an event that none of them are likely to ever forget.

The camporee had previously been held in Oshkosh, Wis., and with a new location came several new challenges, which were compounded by storms.

“We saw God’s keeping power when He kept His people safe during the storm,” said Helvis Moody, young adult/youth ministries director (pictured below), “and we saw God’s saving power when we witnessed precious souls get baptized.”

The camporee began with two backto-back storms. This first one rolled in around 2 a.m. on Tuesday, right after the clubs had set up their tents, leading some clubs to make a Walmart

run to replace their soaked tents and equipment. Though Gillette is a small town of only about 33,000 residents, the local Walmart was prepared for the 60,000 camporee attendees coming in from all over the world.

But when the second storm hit around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, it was going to take more than a Walmart run to provide for the thousands of campers who suddenly had nowhere to sleep.

As the storm came to an end, the Pathfinders emerged from the buildings where they had sheltered to witness a stunning symbol of God’s promise. Above them, a clear double rainbow stretched over the camporee grounds. The campers’ belongings may have been soaked, but the Pathfinders were not forgotten. If the double rainbow wasn’t enough to remind Pathfinders of God’s care, He sent community members out in droves to serve as His hands

and feet to the campers. Local hotels and churches found spaces where the Pathfinders could spend the night. Community members brought dry clothes, blankets and sleeping bags. Some even brought hair dryers to help the Pathfinders dry their belongings.

The rain may have drenched the Pathfinders belongings, but neither the rain nor the other challenges they faced dampened their spirits. (The leadership of the Southwestern Union and its five conferences are advocating for solutions that will ensure logistical issues from sanitation to security are resolved for the next camporee.) For the rest of the week, the Pathfinders earned honors, traded pins, enjoyed evening programs and participated in all sorts of activities. Some Pathfinders even helped set a new world record for the most backpacks packed simultaneously. When a third severe storm was forecasted for Saturday, the final program was moved to Friday night.

But for many, what will be remembered most about this camporee was the many personal decisions to make a commitment to Jesus through baptism. In total there were 1,187 baptisms held during the camporee. The radiant smiles on the faces emerging from the water were enough to alert even secular reporters in attendance that something special was happening.

As Moody reflected on the week, he noted that these storms were a life lesson for the Pathfinders taking the next step in their spiritual journey. “In life we’re going to be faced with storms. We just have to find a way to hold on to the storm,” he said. “Though we would have loved for great weather, God allowed a storm for us to go through to deepen our faith in Him. In the midst of it all, he still showed himself strong and mighty. God allows storms to come in our lives to increase our faith, and without a test there can be no test imony.”

By Lori Futcher Record Managing Editor

Leadership Camp: Peer-to-Peer Training for Students

ATHENS, TEX. – “Be the example.” As children, Pathfinders and leaders, we have heard this statement more times than we can count. We are called to stand apart, to make a difference in the lives of those around us, to set the standard for the world. Sound familiar? Being an Adventist young adult myself, I feel compelled to say that the teaching of insight versus implementation has proven difficult to instill in our youth due to the world we live in today. We are surrounded by media and trends that shape us—things that previous generations have not experienced, at least not to the same degree. For this reason, I can wholeheartedly say that this year’s leadership camp has made a difference in the lives of many young people, including Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) Student Association officers and praise team leaders.

Each year, student leaders from academies throughout the Southwestern Union gather for a long weekend of training and inspiration orchestrated by the union’s education department and experienced student leaders from SWAU. This year the camp was held Sept. 12-15 at Lone Star Camp in Athens, Tex. Peer-to-peer learning allowed

young people to connect with the message effectively, as the academy leaders could relate to those delivering the training.

In alignment with 1 Timothy 4:12, those in attendance were challenged to see leadership in a new light—“in speech and conduct.” Through various sermons, we learned that leadership is not about doing the work, but rather the way it is conveyed and portrayed. Our job as leaders is to reinforce our actions with our words and our words with our actions. We are to live what we preach. To accomplish this, we need to first develop a close relationship with God. At the leadership camp, we were encouraged to start from the ground up.

Evan Armstrong, junior theology major and social vice president at SWAU, shared that “the best version of the Bible is the one you will actually open and read.” Rather than focusing on what the “correct” version is, Armstrong encouraged students to find one they could understand and learn from. The Bible should be enjoyable!

The message for Sabbath School was delivered by senior theology major and SWAU ministries vice president Alan Diaz, who said, “we, as leaders, have the privilege of removing the veil

that the world uses to distort God’s true character. Through our love and dedication, the world will see who God truly is.” Academy student leaders were reminded that they were called by God to their roles and that no role was too small.

While the weekend featured meaningful sermons, it also provided the opportunity for students to participate in team-building activities, breakout sessions and recreation. Students shared with me that they enjoyed the water activities, the games and the music. Leadership is critical, but so are the moments spent together. This time helps students realize that they can be leaders but also friends.

For me, this weekend was an eyeopener. It was a blessing to reach out and connect with students while also being young enough to relate to their experiences. For the adults, this leadership camp was a reminder of our roles and responsibilities to one another and the youth. For the students, it was a chance to be heard, to feel equal and to realize their potential. I am so thankful to have been part of something this meaningful.

By Anjali Ramella SWAU Student

Southwestern Union Executive Committee Highlights

BURLESON, TX – The Southwestern Union executive committee convened in March and September of this year. Below are the highlights of those committee meetings. The final meeting for the year is scheduled for Nov. 21, 2024.

MARCH 2024

On March 20, 2024, Tim Cook, senior vice president and chief mission integration officer for AdventHealth, delivered a devotional before the meeting was called to order by Southwestern Union President Carlos Craig.

Membership Report

Southwestern Union Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks presented both the Southwestern Union 2023 annual membership report and the 2024 year-to-date membership report for Feb. 29, 2024. The Southwestern Union reported 4,150 baptisms and professions of faith for the year 2023. As of Feb. 29, 2024, the year-to-date membership was 125,526. To God be the glory for continued growth in the Southwestern Union.

Financial Report

Southwestern Union Treasurer John Page presented the Southwestern Union financial report. In the year 2023, the Southwestern Union experienced an 8.8 percent tithe increase. Praise God for His provision and for the faithfulness demonstrated by the church members of the five local conferences in the Southwestern Union.

Commission

It was voted for the Southwest Region Conference to Commission Chaplain Denise Grant.

Center of Influence

The Southwestern Union, in partnership with the North American Division, has established a center of influence located at Magnolia Street in Fort Worth, Tex. It was voted to approve

the name for the center of influence as Bread and Better Life Cafe.

SEPTEMBER 2024

On Sept. 4, 2024, the morning began with a devotional given by the Southwest Region Conference President Carlton Byrd before the meeting was called to order by Southwestern Union Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks. Arkansas-Louisiana Conference President Richard Dye reported on the progress in the conference.

Membership Report

Southwestern Union Executive Secretary Stephen Brooks presented the 2024 year-to-date membership report for July 31, 2024, with total membership of 127,102. Praise God for adding to His church.

Financial Report

Southwestern Union Treasurer John Page presented the Southwestern Union July 31, 2024, financial yearto-date report. Thank God for His continued provision.

New Committee Members

Oklahoma Conference Native Ministries Director Jim Landelius and

Southwest Region Conference Education Superintendent Lawanna McCoy were welcomed as new members to the Southwestern Union Executive Committee.

Ordination

It was voted for the Texas Conference to ordain Ernesto Illingworth, David A. Thompson and Samuel Vega to the gospel ministry.

Southwestern Adventist University

A Southwestern Adventist University progress report was given by Ana Patterson, president.

AdventHealth

Texas Health Huguley Hospital President/CEO Penny Johnson gave a wonderful report on AdventHealth in the Southwest Region.

By Stephen Brooks Executive Secretary

Keep Looking Up!

If you’re like me, you’re amazed at the speed of how fast this year has gone by. It only seemed like yesterday that 2024 was off to a roaring start. Now 2024 is all but gone. We have watched winter give way to spring, and then survived the dog days of summer. Fall is in full swing, and a little chill in the air tells us it’s almost Thanksgiving and Christmas.

It’s a time to be thankful, grateful and hopeful. It’s a time to reflect, contemplate and plan for the future. It’s a time to enjoy family, friends and pets. It’s a time to rejoice, renew and relax.

God is indeed good! All of these things that we experience only come because of a warm, winsome and gracious God. He provides. He sustains. He saves to the uttermost. He lifts us up. He is what it is all about! Remember that. In our hectic, hurried and harried life, the world goes merrily about its business and tries to tempt us to think all things are about us. But they’re not! Everything is about our Sovereign Lord! He is our Creator. He is our Redeemer. He is our Provider. As Paul says, He is “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith,” Hebrews 12:2.

With that in mind, I direct your attention back to the Bible for a few moments. Before Jesus’ birth, the

Scriptures prophesied He would be born in Bethlehem. “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times,” Micah 5:2.

The Scriptures helped God’s people know approximately when Jesus would arrive and what His mission would be. “Know and understand this: From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens,’ and sixty-two ‘sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death and will have nothing,” Daniel 9:25-26.

The good news is that Jesus arrived exactly at the right time and the right place. His first coming guarantees His Second Coming! Jesus said it Himself. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am,” John 14:1-3.

Our task is to keep looking up and keep looking forward to His soon coming. John reminds us of this in Revelation 1:7. “‘Look, He is coming with the clouds,’ and ‘every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him’; and all peoples on earth ‘will mourn because of him.’ So shall it be! Amen.”

Remember, my friends, as you enjoy this season, it is all about God. Jesus is to return soon. “Lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near,” Luke 21:28.

By Richard C. Dye, Sr. President

Elders Certification Program

SHREVEPORT,

LA. – When you’re asked to take a position in your church, how do you know what your duties are? There are many facets to church leadership that can be enhanced with a little training and materials.

Leonardo Melendez, ArkansasLouisiana Conference’s church ministries director, has made it a priority to equip and prepare the lay members to be more effective in their churches.

The conference’s first-ever elders’ certification meeting on Aug. 18 was a wonderful equipping of church leadership across the conference. Presentations in both English and Spanish covered topics of: “Elders as Leaders of the Church,” by Jeff Villegas,

executive secretary; “Spiritual Warfare Ministry,” by Leonardo Melendez, church ministries/evangelism director; “Conflict Management,” by Rudy Alvir, ministerial director; and “Healthy Relationships,” by Rick Dye, president.

More than 70 elders showed up to the meetings, which were held at the the conference office in Shreveport. With higher-than-expected attendance, the conference room was overflowing, and participants had to break into smaller groups. The elders in attendance were blessed by the fellowship and the knowledge imparted from both the speakers and from other elders. Everyone who participated received a certificate.

Elders came to Melendez and said, “We have never experienced a training where we can be intentional and address the concept of leadership as we have done here.”

The time has come when the conference elders and leaders need to be certified and prepared for the work that needs to be done. God has called us to work for His cause, and through the certification program, the leaders will be well-equipped.

By Leonardo Melendez Church Ministries Director

Pathfinders Experience Life-Changing Camporee

GILLETTE, WYO. – The Arkansas-Louisiana Conference had 524 Pathfinders and staff participate in the International Pathfinder Camporee. It was a big change from Oshkosh, Wis., where international camporees have been held in the past, but the 65,000 Pathfinders camping in a town of about 35,000 people met the challenges of travel, camping, elevation and environmental issues and made this a wonderful memory-making camporee. All the Pathfinder clubs were allowed on campus on Monday and started setting up their campsites in preparation for the opening activities at noon on Tuesday. As always, pin trading was a big activity. Finding the best pins was hard with so many people and pins available, from single pins to complete sets. Activities were non-stop, with daily onsite activities including a morning and evening flag raising, many honor classes, an obstacle course, ax throwing and a daily rodeo (which was a big hit with the Pathfinders). Offsite activities included outreach projects in town, a soccer tournament, pickleball, basketball, swimming and visits to museums and technology centers in the area.

The evening programming centered around the life of Moses with the theme, “Believe the Promise.” The programs were excellent in presentation and message. There was an altar call, and 1,000 responded. Baptisms were conducted each night before the evening program. There were 1,187 Pathfinders baptized during the camporee. On Friday evening, six Arkansas-Louisiana Pathfinders made their stand for Jesus and were baptized. To God be the Glory!

It wouldn’t be a Pathfinder camporee without weather challenges! And on Tuesday evening a storm came in, causing an evacuation to the main buildings for cover. Heavy rain and high winds caused havoc with tents and canopies. Most of the clubs’ tents and gear got wet, but the Pathfinder spirit took over, and all the clubs worked together to help each other out. Even the Gillette community helped bring in dry blankets and several churches and hotels gave floor space for the night to help those in need. The Gillette community was a huge blessing to our Pathfinders.

After much prayer and deliberation with the weather center, the camporee staff decided to make the Friday

evening program the final program for the camporee. There were predictions of a severe storm with high winds, heavy rain and hail coming during the scheduled Sabbath evening program. Many of the clubs chose to leave early before the storms on Sabbath.

Each conference held their own Sabbath morning Master Guide investiture. The Arkansas-Louisiana Conference had eight Master Guides invested. Following the Master Guide investiture, Arkansas-Louisiana Conference President Rick Dye delivered the Sabbath worship message.

After all was said and done, God did bless this wet and stormy camporee. Our Pathfinders enjoyed rubbing shoulders with other Pathfinders and were able to see that their clubs are part of a huge worldwide Pathfinder organization. We are looking forward to seeing a Pathfinder gathering like this in heaven.

By Lloyd Clapp

TEXARKANA, TEX. – The Texarkana Seventh-day Adventist Church’s women’s ministries has reached out to the community in many ways by ministering to the homeless shelter and the battered women’s shelter and by supplying comfort bags for children in stressful situations.

This fall they also distributed school supplies to the community. The women advertised the event by handing out flyers at two food banks and at store parking lots and posting the event on

CYB: The Place to Be Texarkana Provides School Supplies to Those in Need

Facebook. On the day of the event, a good turnout of church members helped with the school supply distribution, which began July 28 at 2 p.m. in the church parking lot. A long line was gathered by 1:30 p.m., and the first 100 attendees received a free backpack. A table of free church literature was at the last table, and almost everyone stopped to take books.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event successful.

By Loretta Johnson

MOUNTAIN PINE, ARK. – We praise God for all the great things our camp staff and campers experienced this year during summer camp at Camp Yorktown Bay (CYB). Over the years, one of our favorite chants has become, “CYB is the place to be.” If you were to ask why it’s the place to be, you would probably get several answers, but from my perspective, I would have to say it’s the laughter and smiles on each face and also because this is where the Holy Spirit shows up each summer.

Our summer camp kicked things off with staff week. During this time, our staff cleaned the entire campus and prepared the activity areas. But more importantly, the week was used to build relationships among the staff and

to help set the spiritual tone before the campers arrived. CYB’s main objective is to be the place where the youth can have an encounter with Jesus, and as a result, experience a transformed life. Many young people and staff give their lives to Jesus at camp every year when they encounter Him while making wonderful memories.

During staff week, the camp team was also instructed on the importance of having a safe environment. They were taught valuable safety skills, such as how to administer CPR, how to harness someone for rock climbing, how to pull an individual behind the ski boat and how to keep a careful count of each camper. It was a week that we learned to mesh our skills and

understand how to use the talents that God has given to each individual in a way that would honor Him.

This summer, we had 443 campers ages 7 to 17, who enjoyed activities ranging from water skiing and wakeboarding to sports and horseback riding. I would like to thank all our staff for making the 2024 summer a special one. Also, a special thanks to Eric and Linda Bray; Ana Tejada-Lambeth; Devin Anavitarte; Gina Webb; Julianna Mercado and my wife, Darlynn Villegas. Summer camp would not have been possible if it would not have been for these special individuals. See you at CYB next summer!

By Jeff Villegas Executive Secretary

Addressing Health Disparities in Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, LA. – On July 11-14, 2024, the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference, in partnership with the Adventist Medical Evangelism Network (AMEN), hosted its first-ever health disparities weekend at the Baton Rouge Seventh-day Adventist Church. This special event was held to discuss the importance of what health disparities are and how we can address these real and serious issues together.

The event culminated on Sunday with a community clinic that provided free health services, including medical, dental, vision, counseling and spiritual care. The clinic was an opportunity to demonstrate Jesus’ love and presence by providing these services for many who can’t afford health care.

Volunteers, staff and leaders spent months preparing for this event, which had over 100 volunteers and staff.

“It was a wonderful experience, life-changing really,” said participant Dr. Janae Miller. “Sometimes we get so caught up in our day-to-day clinic and practices, and we lose sight of the why. This is a very good reminder of why it’s gratifying to treat underserved/underinsured patients.” Dr. Miller went on to say how much she appreciated seeing the smiles on patients’ faces and was glad to have caught some diseases early during the event. “I would highly recommend anyone to at least try this for a day,” she said.

Participant Taja Head said, “I haven’t seen anything like this before, where

a church and community has reached out to help take care of their community. Some churches say they do this, but this is my very first time to have ever seen anything like this ever. It’s been amazing.”

Our marketing team made a huge impact by spreading the word about the clinic through commercials, flyers, social media and local newspapers.

On Sunday morning, we had a long line with more than 200 people who showed up. Many patients were moved to tears as they were blessed and cared for by the wonderful hospitality the clinic provided.

One of the patients exclaimed, “I can smile again now! My teeth were so bad, I could never smile or afford to get them fixed, but thanks to you all I can smile again.”

Another patient presented with extremely high blood pressure and was sent to the hospital immediately. Her family said that if she hadn’t come to

the clinic, she would have died, adding that Jesus saved her that day.

This health disparities weekend couldn’t have been pulled off without the leadership of Health Ministries Director Dr. Marjorie Bélizaire, who led the event. Satan attacked multiple times with sickness and cancellations, however, Dr. Bélizaire prayed, and God answered. Some of the prayers God answered were for the provision of security and eye care for the event.

Dr. Bélizaire shared, “I was blessed, my heart was warmed and I still have goosebumps from all the good that we did that day. To show the community the love of God in this capacity is truly what being a Christian is all about. To God be the glory for giving me a vision to organize this for our community. We serve an amazing God, and we want to let everyone know that!”

By Fletcher Broussard

A Paradise Interrupted

When my wife and I were engaged, one sunny summer day, we drove down the coast of California’s beautiful Highway 1, heading south out of Monterey toward Big Sur. It is one of the most scenic highways in the country. We found a gorgeous spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean and spread our blanket on the grass to enjoy a picnic lunch while enjoying nature’s scenery. The field was a verdant green with colorful wildflowers, and the ocean was a rich blue. A more perfect spot would be hard to find anywhere. I commented to my wife that it was a little bit of paradise. But that would soon change as an army of ants decided they wanted to have some of our lunch, and the blanket was quickly covered with them. Our paradise was no longer, and we had to move twice to find an undisturbed spot.

I’ve often used this as a sermon illustration of the condition of the world after sin entered. Adam and Eve left their earthly paradise, the Garden of Eden, when they were ushered out after their fall. This earth no longer has a paradise, and it won’t until God creates a new heaven and new earth.

We often try hard to make a paradise here with beautiful homes or seek a paradise on a vacation, but we eventually find there is no earthly paradise here and now. We discover that

problems always arise and ants come to disturb our peace. Families will face difficulties, health challenges arise, age creeps up on us and we all eventually die. That’s why the blessed hope of Christ’s appearing is such an encouragement for us.

Before we were Seventh-day Adventists, we were simply Adventists. Our pioneers were looking forward to the soon coming of Christ to take us home to be with Him, our loved ones and the saints of all ages. They considered themselves pilgrims and strangers here, just waiting for a better time and a better place. They had lost a desire to live in this world and wanted to go to heaven to the place Jesus had prepared for them. They had found in their Bible studies that there was an almost complete fulfillment of most lines of prophecy, and the conditions of the world indicated that the coming of Christ was near. Their one desire was to be ready and share with others the blessed hope that they had.

If that was the case in their day, how much more is it true today? I believe that there is in each of us a desire for a place like paradise. We long for a place where the troubles, pain, heartache, suffering and death of this world will be no longer.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us that God has

put eternity in our hearts, and in Revelation, John sees a new heaven and a new earth, where we are told, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away,” Revelation 21:4. John continued by telling us that there will again be the tree of life and that there will be no more curse.

Jesus is coming. It is later than it has ever been. Now is the time to draw close to Jesus, to know Him in a personal, intimate way. We also need to tell the world of the good news of Calvary and the blessed hope of Jesus coming, for He is coming soon.

By James Shires President

Camp Meeting Provides Activities and Inspiration For All

WEWOKA, OKLA. – Oklahoma Conference’s annual summer camp meeting is the highlight of the year for many families in and out of state. This year’s theme was “God with Us,” and the rolling hills of Wewoka Woods Adventist Center are still where we meet in the middle of July. This year, there were several new activities and milestones, including basketball tournaments, a free Sabbath haystack dinner and an air-conditioned young adult building.

Family activities help make camp meeting at Wewoka Woods unique, such as horseback riding, tubing, canoeing, archery and pool time. Grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids get to enjoy these unforgettable activities together! On the first Sunday, we held our second annual nature center open house, inviting people from Seminole County to see and touch nature, including shark’s

teeth, sands of the world, 450 fossil specimens and clams. The resounding response was, “We had no idea this was here!” The nature center at Wewoka boasts more than 6,000 specimens and is an impressive and interactive place to visit. It is curated by Robert Holbrook, who is best known by his retired name, “Nature Bob.”

The daily spiritual activities started with a sunrise prayer session, followed by a full day of opportunities for worship, prayer and learning sessions. These activities are for ages newborn on up. Meetings ended around 9 p.m., and campers returned to their various tents or cabins.

One attendee noted that camp meeting is “always wonderful,” adding, “Thanks for all the hard work you do!” None of this would be possible without our church member volunteers who teach classes and our summer

camp staff who switch to camp meeting duties. Of course, our Oklahoma pastors also are available for prayer and counseling when they aren’t on duty at the information desk, division meetings, sound booth or other activities.

Henry Wright, Damon Snead, John Peckham and Cindy Mercer were some of our speakers whose inspiring messages led more than 35 people to baptism on the second Sabbath. One attendee said, “I was spiritually blessed and renewed!”

If you’d like to experience a spiritual revival at next year’s camp meeting, save the dates now: July 11-19, 2025. You’ll be able to register online at OKAdventist.org as camp meeting time draws near. See you there! By Caroline Fisher and Ashley Alipoon, Assistant to the Communication Director

Vinita Church Receives Double Sabbath Blessing

VINITA, OKLA. – On Sabbath, May 11, 2024, we had the wonderful privilege of seeing a precious couple testify of their love for Jesus in baptism and their love for each other in marriage.

When Greg Sawin met Toni, a traveling nurse, their relationship deepened until they decided to get married. They wanted to marry in the Vinita Seventh-day Adventist Church, where Greg had attended while growing up. Although he lost his relationship with Jesus as a teenager, he still believed the

biblical doctrines he had been taught and, as he shared them with Toni, the Holy Spirit brought deep conviction to his own heart. When Toni expressed her sincere desire to be baptized, Greg knew that he needed to rededicate his own life to Jesus and be rebaptized. Their faces were radiant with the love of Jesus and their love for each other as Jerry Mayes baptized and married Greg and Toni Sawin. Greg expressed gratefulness and praised the Lord for the promise of forgiveness and a new

life in Christ, saying, “My past is my past and my future, with Jesus and Toni, is my future.”

By Kay Mayes

Garage Sale Helps Provide Holiday Food Basket

OKLAHOMA CITY – For the past decade, Christmas and Thanksgiving have been times when the Oklahoma City Southern Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church meets the needs of our community through food basket distribution.

In the early years of this ministry, we looked for members within our church to help with food. But soon the leaders saw this was not the best approach. Rita Shaw contacted the local public schools and explained our ministry to them and invited the schools to give us names of families in need. This allowed us to serve both our members and the community surrounding us.

Unfortunately, in August our community fund had less than $400 in it for

making holiday baskets. It takes around $1,000 to make up 20 baskets each holiday. We didn’t know how God would provide the additional funds.

Around this time there were four women in the church who were downsizing their households. They donated items for a garage sale. Members got busy sorting through the items and held a garage sale in late September.

We were praying and asking God to help us earn at least $1,000 from the donations. On Thursday, Friday and Sunday we made a little more than $800. As we were counting the money and checks, we noticed that we had counted a check for $20 that was actually for $200! We had met our goal.

Matthew Vixie, pastor of Southern Hills church, announced the success of the sale and said that since we had so many items left to sell, we were going to have the garage sale again the following weekend. After the two weekends of sales, we ended up with over $1,900! With these funds, we were able to package 70 baskets of food for local families for the holidays. We learned that when we partner with God in our ministry, He has a thousand ways of which we know not to help us reach people in need. Let’s remember in our outreach we have a master witness in Jesus, the Son of God.

By Rita Shaw and Matthew Vixie, Pastor

Heritage Adventist School Recovers from Tornado

CLAREMORE, OKLA. – When a natural disaster hits a town, that’s when a community shines the brightest. This was especially true for the Claremore, Okla., community that was hit by an EF3 tornado on May 25 at 11:20 p.m. Heritage Adventist School, located directly behind the Claremore Seventhday Adventist church, took a direct hit from the tornado, resulting in devastating damage to the building, the loss of a recently built porch and uprooting of three large trees.

Church member Monica McGehee posted on social media that volunteers were needed to help clean up the fallen trees. The conference community service team saw her post and sent a text

to the members, asking them to help if they were able. Two days after the tornado, more than 50 volunteers from area churches showed up ready to help with the cleanup.

Church members really took ownership of this project. “We’ll make sure it’s back up in time for school in August,” promised Denise McGehee, an elder at the Claremore church.

Other members were inspired to run the Burger Barn, a staple eatery at Oklahoma camp meeting, and donate all the proceeds to rebuilding the school. This effort was organized by Joan Rupe, a payroll specialist at the Oklahoma Conference, and was solely run by volunteers.

“I had a ton of volunteers!” said Rupe. “During the busiest hours, God provided help from kids and adults alike!” The Burger Barn brought in $1,768.85, which was a great help in the rebuilding of the school.

The Claremore church was without a pastor at the time of the tornado, and it’s times like these that can either wreck a church or strengthen it, depending on how the community comes together. We are thrilled to share that, with the help of volunteers, the church school was able to open as planned in August!

By Ashley Alipoon Assistant to the

Communication Director

And Let Them Make Me A Sanctuary

OKLAHOMA CITY – This year Hispanic churches in the Oklahoma Conference acquired four new properties in Ardmore, Bixby, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. In Ardmore, the building is not ready

to meet in, but the congregation is working on obtaining funds for the remodeling. Soon they will provide a good service, not only to the members but also to the community.

We have started a new congregation in Bixby, south of Tulsa. There were 45 church members who, by faith, launched into this project. We ask for your prayers so that we can soon establish other churches in the Tulsa area.

Another purchase was a building in Tulsa for the Garnett Spanish Seventhday Adventist Church, where we hope the congregation can continue to grow.

TAA High Schoolers Bond at Alley Spring

TULSA, OKLA. – Tulsa Adventist Academy’s (TAA) annual high school challenge was another great hit at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. Our high school students enjoyed six days of camping (cell phone free) at Alley Spring, a campground in Ozark’s National Scenic Riverways park system. Our principal, three high school teachers and two TAA volunteers joined students as they pitched tents in a shady glen, complete with a restroom on site. For the freshmen, the start of the school year can be a time of uncertainty, but by including the entire high school student body, everyone quickly banded together.

TAA’s theme this year is “Purpose,” based on Ephesians 2:10, where Paul reminds us “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Each camp day began with worship, which consisted of time alone with God (Bible reading), volunteer sharing and prayer. Several students said that after this experience, they are excited about reading their Bibles, something new for them!

On Tuesday, we visited the beautiful aqua-green Alley Spring and Mill

and hiked the nearby trails. We spent the afternoon swimming in the cool crystal-clear Jacks Fork River, catching crawdads and tadpoles. As with every evening, the day ended with praises in song and testimonies. On Wednesday, we survived the small-but-mighty rapids on a six-hour canoe trip. The unusual and spectacular blue pigment in parts of the river is due to a specific chemical in the river that supports the endangered Ozark hellbender salamander, found primarily in the area. Afterward, students enjoyed team-building exercises that challenged them to be patient and collaborate.

Thursday was a hiking day near Big Spring, found at the base of a cliff in the Current River. We also visited a oneroom schoolhouse that was used until 1957. NASA astronaut, Thomas Akers attended that little school years ago.

On Friday, the students had a community service and learning day. Park Ranger Josh shared how the Alley Spring community was founded, and how the grist mill and spring were vital in the pioneers' success. After the tours, students cleaned up litter along the Jacks Fork River beachfront.

The highlight of the bonding week

Lastly, we purchased a building in Oklahoma City for the Lakeside Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church. Our church members are happy to be able to worship the Lord in a beautiful place and also receive many visitors who are beginning to know the love of our God. We can only say with the psalmist in Psalm 75:1, “We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds.”

By Luis Prieto Hispanic Coordinator

was the Sabbath morning student testimonies. These were not “feel good” stories, but rather deeply painful experiences that had many of us in tears. Listening to students share how God has answered prayers and become a Friend they can count on was incredibly inspiring. Several adults also shared their testimonies to encourage and give hope to students who may be experiencing doubt about God's role in their life. The day ended at Rocky Falls catching tadpoles and sliding down molten rock.

By Caroline A. Fisher Teacher

Oklahoma Churches Unite in Community Outreach

VINITA, OKLA. – On Friday, July 26, a fire was set in a low-income senior housing apartment building in Vinita, Okla. All 48 residents made it out safely, but a few were taken to the emergency room for smoke inhalation. The Vinita Seventh-day Adventist Church, with its 40 members, immediately set out to assist residents who lost everything. Some were given food and clothing. Two church members opened their homes to two of the residents. Some are still displaced, and they are being told it may be a year before the apartments are rebuilt. As needs arise in our community, service will be available to help.

To ensure that the Oklahoma Conference churches not only respond to disasters like this in a timely manner, but also create community service projects for all our churches, a detailed plan

has been developed. We have groups of churches located in six areas of the state of Oklahoma: northeast, southeast, Tulsa area, northwest, southwest and the Oklahoma City area. Each area has multiple churches in their group. Each area will form a community service committee represented by the community service leaders of each church or other members in their churches.

These committees will examine the needs of each of the communities of the churches in their area. They will plan community service outreach events for each of the churches. When one church’s community is targeted, all the churches in that area will come together to work for the benefit of the people in the community of that church. If Bible studies are acquired from an event, they will all go to that church. If children in the community are interested in VBS,

Adventurers or Pathfinders, they will all be directed to that church.

Therefore, all the churches in that area will help that one church to grow, then the other churches in that area will be targeted in the same manner. Thus, we will help our churches in their respective communities to serve the people and to grow. This will also help us to grow spiritually as we help each other as an Adventist community.

The six community service committees will also form a disaster relief protocol for disasters that may occur in their area. This will ensure that we respond rapidly to help those in need like the community surrounding the Vinita church. May the Good Lord help us to carry out these plans with His approval for the salvation of souls.

By Marlowe Parks Pastor

Bible Workers Enhance Evangelism in Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Southwestern Union evangelistic project for 2024 made this promise of Luke 10:2 a reality in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area by providing the resources to employ four Spanish-speaking and four English-speaking Bible workers. This initiative brought the gospel to many homes in Oklahoma City, leading to an evangelistic series in each of the churches.

Along with going door to door, the Bible workers for the English churches

meet twice every month with evangelism coordinator Luis Luciano to enhance their skills and share their amazing experiences. Altogether, they have had 150 Bible studies (including two small group studies) and nine baptisms. Bible worker Daniel Anderson shared, “It has been a blessing to see people allowing Christ to change their lives in ways they never imagined. Also, the Oklahoma Conference has made an impactful difference in ensuring that I have the tools and support necessary to be effective in my role.”

On the Spanish-speaking side, the support of our union has helped achieve great results in mobilizing our church members and in evangelism. Thanks to Osvaldo Rigacci, Southwestern Union vice president for multicultural ministries, and a group of evangelists who came to Oklahoma to support us in our spring 2024 evangelism event, there was a great movement in the churches,

and all our members participated in each evangelistic meeting. Our Bible workers are pastors who will be in our territory for one year, and each church is receiving benefits from them as they have motivated our members and have made a great effort to get people interested in receiving Bible studies and preparing candidates for baptism. As a result of this joint effort, we achieved 120 baptisms in our Hispanic churches in the first six months of 2024, and we hope, with God’s blessing, to achieve the same number during the fall evangelism efforts.

We thank our Lord for sending us workers to His harvest in Oklahoma and thanks to the Oklahoma Conference’s administrators for your support and help making this effort possible. It will be rewarded with eternal results.

By Luis Luciano, Evangelism Director and Luis Prieto, Hispanic Coordinator

Jesus’ Promised Coming

For many years, we’ve proclaimed that Jesus’ coming is very soon. The cries of “Get your house in order,” “Your redemption draweth nigh” and “The end of the world is near” are just some of the phrases that have been echoed in churches, declared on street corners and preached in revivals. Despite these passionate pleas for vigilance in preparation for this grand, climactic event, the urgency of Christ’s coming has regrettably been desensitized due to our current postmodern society coupled with Christ’s delay in redeeming His people from this earth.

Revelation 1:7 makes it very clear that Jesus is coming: “Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him!” (KJV). “Shall” doesn’t suggest speculation, supposition or conjecture, but rather a definite promise.

Revelation 22:20 confirms that He’s coming soon. Jesus’ statement about the imminence of His return is a reiteration of what He said in Matthew, when He described the state of the world just before His coming. “The disciples came unto Him privately, saying, ‘Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?’ And Jesus answered and said unto

them, ‘Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars ... but the end is not yet. ... and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved,’” Matthew 24:3-13 (KJV).

Many of these occurrences have either transpired or are transpiring. Deception, calamity, strife, natural disasters, false prophets and wars are rampant in our world. While we may experience daily tests and trials, there is still hope! Jesus is coming, and He’s coming soon!

Revelation closes by telling us that Jesus wants to spend eternity with His people and is coming for those who love and obey Him. Those who don’t

would be unhappy living forever with Him. Yet Jesus desires for everyone to accept Him as their personal Savior. He wants all of humanity to live eternally with Him. He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance,” 2 Peter 3:9 (KJV).

Jesus is coming soon, and He wants us to be ready. Take courage in Paul’s counsel in Hebrews 12:1-2: “Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.”

May our prayer be, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:20 (KJV).

By

Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min. President

A Pentecost Experience in Papua New Guinea

PAPUA NEW GUINEA – The Holy Spirit is real! The Bible reminds us in Acts 2:17, “‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.’” This became a manifested reality in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where more than 500,000 souls were baptized into the

A Joyous Graduation

TEXARKANA, TEX. – On May 19, the Bethel Adventist Church School in Texarkana, Tex., hosted a graduation ceremony. The event celebrated our graduate, Kalikasan Doronila Diaz, affectionately known as “Kyze,” who received his diploma amidst the cheers and applause of family and friends holding congratulatory signs. Kyze, the youngest of two siblings, is thrilled to be advancing to the first grade.

The ceremony featured keynote speaker Janice L. Coopwood-Ford, daughter of William Coopwood, who was instrumental in building Bethel Adventist Church School.

Coopwood-Ford delivered an inspiring and challenging message titled “Gardening 101.” This year’s graduation theme, “Garden of Knowledge,” beautifully captured the essence of the growth and learning that our students have experienced.

Seventh-day Adventist Church during the evangelistic campaign with Adventist World Radio (AWR) that ran from April 24 to May 12, 2024.

Rolando Baysa and Robert Norwood, pastors in the Southwest Region Conference, were selected by AWR to be a part of this spiritual awakening in Papua New Guinea, at an event called PNG for Christ.

Participating in PNG for Christ was a life-transforming, once-in-a-lifetime experience. There were 2,000 sites where the North American Division team of lay evangelists, pastors and lay members worked together to advance the Kingdom of God.

Baysa recounted that on May 1, at an appeal he gave in the Asaro district, 400 souls took their stand.

Norwood was assigned to Gahuku High School Goroka district. Each Sabbath, no less than 1,900 people were in attendance. During the first appeal, 250 people came down, and at the second appeal, 300 people took their stand and gave their lives to Christ.

The Holy Spirit is moving in a supernatural way in this season!

By Robert Norwood, D. Min. Pastor

The festivities began with a baccalaureate service, during which Coopwood-Ford was honored with a plaque from both the church and the school for her continued support of student achievement. In addition to the graduation ceremony, an AY program was held, during which Bethel families collaborated to build windmills. This hands-on activity provided a wonderful opportunity for parents and family members to work together, testing their windmills upon completion.

The celebration concluded with Ethel, the school’s teddy bear mascot, escorting Kyze, who was carrying roses, symbolizing his transition to first grade. The event ended on a high note, with Ethel waving goodbye, signifying Kyze’s step into a new chapter of his educational journey.

All parents were also honored with plaques for their six years of dedicated

involvement in school activities and their unwavering support, making this graduation ceremony a memorable occasion for everyone involved.

By Sandra Clemons Principal

Denise Grant Commissioned as a Credentialed Minister

KILLEEN, TEX. – June 29, 2024, will long be remembered in the life of Denise Grant, a healthcare and hospice chaplain. On this date, she was commissioned as a credentialed minister in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

In the presence of church leaders, family, friends, church members and well-wishers, Grant received this designation at the Killeen New Hope Seventh-day Adventist Church. Presiding over the commissioning service was Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min., Southwest Region Conference president, and participating in the service were Philip Palmer, treasurer; Vanston Archbold, vice president for multicultural ministries; Leslie Soupet, communications director; and Billy Wright, former president of Southwest Region Conference, who gave the commissioning message.

Having recognized God’s calling on her life at an early age, Grant accepted this call when she began studying theology at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Ala., graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree that focused on chaplaincy and counseling. She furthered her education and earned her Master of Divinity degree from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich. Presently, in addition to being a health care and hospice chaplain, Grant is an elder at the Killeen New Hope church.

At her commissioning service, Grant expressed her gratitude to the Southwest Region Conference leadership, her family and friends and the Killeen New Hope Church for their support and trust. She gave ultimate thanks to God for the privilege to serve in

ministry, and encouraged congregants to pursue their God-given callings, highlighting the diverse ways God calls individuals to serve.

Following the service, a congratulatory reception was held for Grant. The day was not only a celebration of her achievements, but also a testament to the power of God in her life. While Grant fulfills her responsibilities as a credentialed minister, she carries with her the hopes and prayers of her church and community, eager to see the impact of her ministry in the years to come.

Thunder Island: Where Jesus Is Always with Me

BATON ROUGE, LA. – At the Thunder Island Vacation Bible School (VBS), organized by the Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church and Faith Seventh-day Adventist Church, children learned that God is with them, even through storms.

After each evening’s opening program, volunteers led students to five excursion stations. At “Cascade Waterfall,” reenacted Bible stories demonstrated God’s healing power. The children were then led to the “Scuba Shack” prayer station followed by a visit to “Sandcastle Crafts” to create colorful ocean paraphernalia.

When it was time to wind down at “Turtle Cove,” the children hastened outdoors to learn more about God. Games in the debriefing taught the children messages of Jesus’ love and love for each other. The last stop was the “Coconut Café” snack station.

On Sabbath, the worship service consisted of VBS’s graduation and

children’s church, during which Cheryl Moore, an elder at the Berean church, applauded director Nyieda Pearson for her coordination of the program.

The morning’s speaker was 18-yearold VBS volunteer Gabrielle Jones.

Speaking of the children who attended, Jones addressed the adults in the congregation. “VBS was an awesome experience for them as they learned how Christ truly loves them,” she said. “Matthew 18:2-5 speaks volumes about

our responsibility to God’s little ones; truly our most precious commodity. The excursion to Thunder Island did its part by introducing our children to Jesus; now it’s our turn to do our part. Let’s assure them that Jesus is always there to listen to them through prayer, and longs for a personal relationship with them.”

By Evelyn M. Edwards

New Educational Professionals Welcomed

DALLAS – The arrival of four new educational professionals has brought new perspectives to our schools.

Nicole Droste, the new head teacher of the Bethel Adventist Church School, has a bachelor’s in organizational management and a master’s in elementary education from Oakwood University. She is dedicated to supporting diverse learners and cultivating partnerships that boost student performance.

Lydia Charles, a graduate of Oakwood University, is eagerly beginning her career in her hometown of New Orleans, where she’s teaching at New Orleans Adventist Academy. She’s committed to contributing to the same community that shaped her own love for learning. Charles brings boundless energy and creativity to the classroom.

Violet Dean, the new principal for Southwest Adventist Junior Academy

(SWAJA), has served as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent of human resources. She brings extensive knowledge in human capital management and employee relations. Dr. Dean graduated from Southwestern Adventist University with a degree in home economics education before continuing at Texas A&M University, where she earned a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctoral degree in educational administration. She brings professional leadership, strategic planning and instructional expertise to the academy.

Annette Hall, a teacher at SWAJA, brings vast knowledge in business, math, religion and curriculum and instruction. She’s been a teacher, principal and tutoring company business owner. Dr. Hall majored in math and computer science and minored

in religion at Oakwood University before continuing with a master’s in curriculum and instruction. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Concordia University Chicago.

From technology integration to innovative instructional practices, the 2024-2025 school year will be full of opportunities to grow and lead. Our district remains committed to providing resources and support—including instructional coaching, mentorship and professional learning communities— to help all educators succeed in their roles. These new educators, along with our current ones, aim to make this year one of growth and achievement.

By Lawanna McCoy

Education Superintendent

Passionate Urgency and Unquenchable Hope

Our belief in the Second Coming has implications on how we live our daily lives. First, you and I are to live with passionate urgency. Do those words describe your thoughts about the Second Coming?

In Mark 13:34, Jesus says, “It’s like a man going away: He leaves His house and puts His servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.” Jesus repeatedly urges us to stay alert and awake, warning us against drifting and missing our opportunity to serve. That tells me that each one of us has a crucial part in God’s plan.

When I became the Texas Conference president three years ago, I wrote “urgency” on a Post-it note in my office to remind myself of this truth. Together as one, we can work, rest, pray, serve, love and worship, giving our all to the Master’s work until He returns.

Do you ever stop to think about how you only have one life to live, one life to grow, love God and serve Him? Do you think He is pleased with how we are taking care of the life He has given us?

Each one of us has resources, gifts and finances on loan from the Master, and this is our opportunity to invest them for His kingdom. Life is not about

carrying a crushing burden, but celebrating God’s goodness, telling the truth, facing problems with courage and speaking love. Serving God is a joyous celebration.

The second implication of Jesus’ return is the blessed hope. We should live with unquenchable hope, regardless of life’s challenges. The New Testament contains 300 references to Jesus’ return, providing hope and encouraging perseverance. Our future doesn’t depend on us, circumstances or fate. When Jesus returns, everything will be set right.

The Bible uses various images to convey the wonder of eternity. One powerful image is that of Jesus claiming His church the way a groom claims His beloved bride. Revelation 19:7 shares “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.”

Almost to the end of the Bible, in Revelation 21:2, John tells us, “I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.”

Many people enjoy watching the groom’s face as he sees His bride

coming. At the Second Coming, we will see God himself, face-to-face. Being a wise groom, He will say, “This is the moment I longed for since before you were born. Enter now into eternal life, eternal joy, eternal love.”

I encourage you to live with passionate urgency and unquenchable hope, knowing that your life matters. Now is the time to love, invest and proclaim the gospel. Embrace the urgency and hope of Jesus’ return and let it guide your life.

By Elton DeMoraes, D.Min. President

Gifts That Make a Difference

ALVARADO, TEX. – During this time of year, the Planned Giving & Trust Services team (GratefulLivingTexas.org) is often asked about Texas Conference projects. Whether the individual wants to give a one-time gift or set up an estate plan, the focus is on making a difference within the conference.

Over the past few years, the conference has seen growth in the return of tithes and offerings. This is a testimony to the faithfulness of our members who trust God with their finances, supporting Texas Conference projects that create opportunities to share God’s love with others.

Whether it is contributing to Lake Whitney Ranch projects, Adventist education endowments or evangelism funds, your gift is making a difference today, tomorrow and for eternity.

There are many ways to give, including through AdventistGiving.org, estate planning, local church tithe envelopes, stock gifts and IRA rollovers. You can also mail a check to the Texas Conference, P.O. Box 800, Alvarado, Tex., 76009. Please make a note if you would like your money directed to a specific project.

For more information about legacy giving, contact the Texas Conference

By Lynette Ecord

Estate Gifts Provide Funds for International Camporee

ALVARADO, TEX. – I have witnessed many miracles since joining the Texas Conference. It is inspiring to see faithful members who made estate plans decades ago, specifying churches and ministries, provide amounts that are currently needed.

The latest stories involve two Pathfinder clubs that were surprised to receive funds from estates. Those funds enabled them to attend the International Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, Wyo., August 5-11, 2024

Sylvia Suttles, treasurer for the San Antonio Highland Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church, shared with me that

the expenses would have probably been too much for their Pathfinder club (pictured right) to attend had they not received the funds from the Cecil Sauls estate. Members were shouting and praising the Lord the day I presented the check to the church congregation.

The second story features the Denton First Seventh-day Adventist Church Pathfinder club in Pilot Point, Tex. (pictured left). The Charles Gaines estate left a house and all of its contents to the Texas Conference. Needing everything cleaned out so the house could be sold, Uzziel Maldonado, trust services associate director, contacted

Juanita Clarke, Pathfinder director for the Denton First church, to see if the group would be interested in preparing for and conducting the estate sale in exchange for receiving all the proceeds from whatever they were able to sell. “They were appreciative of this opportunity to raise funds for the camporee,” Maldonado said. Visit GratefulLivingTexas.org to find more inspiring stories and estate planning information.

By Tony Correa South Texas Trust Officer

Basketball Team Wins Awards On and Off the Court

KEENE, TEX. – The Lady Blazers, the girls’ basketball team from Chisholm Trail Academy (CTA), had an amazing season during the 2023-2024 school year. Their on-court accomplishments were so voluminous that there is not enough space to list them all. They include receiving the highest season-ending MaxPreps ranking in school history, becoming Southwestern Adventist University Hoops Classic champions (an award they last won 19 years ago) and winning back-to-back state championships, just to name a few.

Off the court, more than half of the team is part of the National Honor Society. The majority have also held

leadership positions as student association or class officers. I lost track of the countless academic awards presented during the CTA academic awards day; however, three team members were Academic All-State recipients. In the preceding year, more than half of the team attended mission trips, with some going to Cuba, Paraguay and the Navajo Nation.

If that is not impressive enough, at the beginning of the season, the team committed to represent God, family and school everywhere they went. They used Bible verses to show how basketball principles can be life principles. Their grace and excellence, especially

in times of challenges, are something we should all emulate. As their coach, I want all girls to know that God doesn’t just work through Davids and Daniels but also Ruths and Esthers.

As the girls said repeatedly all year, hard work pays off. They took the talents God gave them and multiplied them to His honor and glory.

Reflecting on their accomplishments, I am reminded of I Samuel 7:12, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” I'm excited to see how He keeps working in their lives.

By Dennis Haslam

Tamaraw Pathfinders Give Their Lives to Jesus

GILLETTE, WYO. – It was a pleasure to have 82 Pathfinders, staff and family members from the DFW Fil-Am Seventh-day Adventist Church experience the Inter-

national Pathfinder Camporee held in Gillette, Wyo., August 5-11, 2024. Our club is known as the Tamaraw Pathfinders. Tamaraw is a water buffalo, the national symbol of the Philippines.

There were many camporee activities, honors and programs to enjoy, but what made this trip extra special for our club is that nine of our Pathfinders were baptized there. Jia Tarin, Kina Tarin, Ylea Cerna, Genesis Mendez, Karlyn Tan, Liam Gunida, Andrew Pryce, Ella Paul and Bryce Cabansag made their commitment to Jesus in

front of thousands of witnesses, all celebrating and praising God for this day. Everyone was excited to share their reasons for wanting to get baptized. “I wanted to get baptized in Gillette because I wanted to show everyone that I love Jesus,” said Jia Tarin, age 12. “Having my Lolo (grandfather) baptize me made it extra special.”

You can read the rest of their responses and see more pictures at TexasAdventist.org.

By Nancy Cabansag

Camporee Showcases Intergenerational Ministry

GILLETTE, WYO. – Intergenerational ministry brings people from different generations together to learn, serve, worship and share as they live out their calling to be the body of Christ.

Club ministries like Adventurers, Pathfinders and Master Guides are crucial in fostering such connections within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. These ministries build meaningful mentor-mentee relationships, which contribute to the health and growth of our churches.

As Pathfinder clubs worldwide prepared for the International Pathfinder

Camporee, held August 5-11, 2024, thousands of pastors, elders, youth, young adults, parents and grandparents worked together, providing a deep sense of community fueled by intergenerational collaboration.

Five thousand Texas Conference campers were part of the 60,000 in attendance at the camporee. Ninetythree Texas Conference Pathfinders chose to get baptized, and 31 committed and dedicated individuals from our conference invested as Master Guides.

The Texas Conference entrance honored the Houston Space Center. Its

Historic Church Building Needs Some TLC

CLIFTON, TEX. – For decades, the Norse Seventh-day Adventist Church has represented the Texas Conference’s humble beginnings. Now, Texas’ first Adventist church building needs some care. A fundraising campaign recently began to raise money for its restoration. Would you help us restore this historic church to its former glory? You can give through

AdventistGiving.org (select “Norse Church – Historic Renovation”); by texting the word Norse to 41444; or mailing a check payable to the Texas Conference, Norse Church – Historic Renovation, P.O. Box 800, Alvarado, Tex., 76009.

Visit TexasAdventist.org/news for more information.

By Elton DeMoraes, D.Min.

magnitude represented the excellence each Pathfinder director puts into this ministry.

The first Texas Conference drum corps made us proud, winning first place at the camporee (see story on page 37).

Churches today must invest their resources in initiatives like club ministries, which are an intergenerational way to expand the Kingdom of God here on earth.

By Christian Ponciano Youth & Club Ministries Director

Conroe Pathfinders See the Lord’s Leading

CONROE, TEX. – The Cougar Pathfinder Club from the Conroe Seventh-day Adventist Church had some exciting travel plans this year.

Two teams participated in the Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE) program, answering questions by memory from the books of Joshua and Judges. One team advanced to the North American Division PBE level in Greeley, Colo., and received a first-place award.

The second trip was to the International Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, Wyo., August 5-11, 2024. To raise funds for the trip, Pathfinders distributed Adventist books door-to-door throughout the community on a donation basis. During the roughly 10 times they canvassed in the community, they spoke to almost 500 people, praying with anyone interested in prayer.

Our generous church family helped make the trips a reality with everyone praying. An added blessing was the purchase of a bus used to make the trips. This bus will also be used by Conroe Adventist Academy and other church ministries. God never ceases to bless the efforts!

Texas Conference Drum Corps Wins First Place

GILLETTE, WYO. – A group of dedicated Pathfinders from the Houston, San Antonio and Tyler Pathfinder clubs

formed a Texas Conference Pathfinder drum corps in 2023. At the International Pathfinder Camporee held in

By Christy Anderson

Gillette, Wyo., August 5-11, 2024, they won first place, showing their commitment and dedication to their craft. These three clubs also competed in the individual club drum corps competition, winning first, first and second places, respectively.

“I was so proud of our Pathfinders,” shared Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes. “Their precision, their stamina, it was all so impressive, even more so when you learn the variety of ages and that most of them started with the drum corps last year.”

Having been a part of a Pathfinder drum corps in the New York area, I wanted to continue the tradition when I moved to San Antonio. Discussions about creating a Texas Conference drum corps began before COVID-19, but we were not able to formalize until 2023, after a drum corps camp. I’m excited to see how many drum corps clubs we’ll have at the next camporee.

By Ronneil Harewood

The Culmination of the Greatest Love Story

The central theme of Revelation 14 is the Second Coming of Jesus, which is the very foundation of Adventism. This is why we are called Adventists— because we are eagerly awaiting the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. Adventism was born from the deep yearning of people who desperately longed to see the Lord.

The pioneers of our church were so consumed by their love for Jesus that merely speaking about Him wasn’t enough; they wanted to see Him faceto-face. Through their study of ancient prophecies in Daniel, they found reasons to believe that His return might be closer than others had anticipated.

When these pioneers pinpointed a specific day for Jesus’ return (October 22, 1844), they waited anxiously. As the day wore on, their concern grew, and when the clock struck midnight with no sign of Jesus, their hearts broke. Hiram Edson wrote of a spirit of weeping that overtook them—a sorrow unlike anything they had ever experienced. They wept through the night.

Have you ever wept uncontrollably because you missed and loved someone so much? The Second Coming is more than just an event; it’s a pivotal

part of the greatest love story that has ever been told.

This story is one of deep love and commitment, of promises made and broken. It tells of rejection, death, loss and redemption. It’s a story of searching for a loved one and a vow to return and take them home. The Second Coming is a continuation of this story.

Ephesians 5:25 captures this beautifully: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” We, the Church, are the bride of Christ. When you’re deeply in love, what do you do? You say, “I have to spend the rest of my life with this person! Be my wife! Be my husband!” You get married, committing to love, honor and cherish each other, to make the other your one and only, in sickness and in health, until death do you part.

You plan your wedding with care, making sure everything is perfect. You reserve the church, hire the photographer and order a special cake. The food, the clothes—everything about the day reflects the deep love between the bride and groom.

When Jesus said, “I am going there to prepare a place for you,” (John 14:2),

I believe He was making all the necessary arrangements to spend eternity with us. When He breaks through the skies, the most incredible wedding ceremony will take place, and He will receive us unto Himself.

As I reflect on the Second Coming of Jesus, I see it as part of the greatest love story the universe has ever known. Do you love Him so deeply that your heart aches to see Him? My hope and prayer is that our hearts long for Him so intensely that we simply cannot wait for His arrival.

By Antonio Cano Executive Secretary

Celebrating Unity: Texico Convocation in Corrales

CORRALES, N.M. – The Texico Conference continued its convocation series with a warm gathering on Aug. 23-24, at the Sandia View Academy campus. The weekend event echoed the spirit of the previous convocation in Lubbock, Tex., and welcomed more than 750 attendees who came together in unity under the theme “One Family, One Hope.”

The convocation featured recognized speakers. John Bradshaw, “It Is Written” president, shared messages that inspired the English-speaking audience. Similarly, Manuel Moral, Ph.D., D.Min., Oakwood University professor of religion and theology, delivered sermons that touched the hearts of the Spanish-speaking attendees. Both speakers emphasized the importance of faith, unity and hope in challenging times.

The event also featured an engaging youth rally led by Stacey DePluzer, Illinois Conference associate youth director. DePluzer brought energy and inspiration, encouraging young attendees to embrace their spiritual journey and contribute positively to their communities. The children’s program, designed for ages 5-12, offered an exciting exploration of nature and science led by enthusiastic naturalist

John Henri Rorabeck. The program provided a fun and educational experience, captivating the young minds with interactive activities.

For many attendees, the two-day convocation was an emotional homecoming as they returned to a place where Texico hosted many camp meetings in the past. Several attendees expressed how meaningful it was to have the Texico Convocation held on the Sandia View Academy campus once again, rekindling memories of past gatherings and fellowship.

“You have no idea what having this event here means to me. It’s like coming home after all these years,” said Rebecka Salazar. Her voice filled with emotion and there were tears in her eyes as she reminisced about her childhood memories of living nearby and hearing the camp meeting tents being set up. She and her siblings would run to the campus and envision where friends and loved ones would gather. “The joy of seeing our brothers and sisters come together, especially here, where so many memories were made, is indescribable. It’s like a preview of what awaits us in heaven.” For Salazar, this year’s convocation was a heartfelt reunion that brought her closer to her

faith and the hope of Christ’s return. For others, especially new members, it was their first experience of such a special occasion.

As the convocation concluded, the leadership of the Texico Conference expressed their gratitude and excitement for the event’s success. They highlighted the significance of gathering as one family and the importance of nurturing hope within the community. The convocation’s theme, “One Family, One Hope,” served as a reminder of the shared mission and collective strength of the Texico Conference family.

With hearts full and a renewed sense of purpose, attendees left the event eagerly anticipating next year’s gathering in the Albuquerque area. The Texico Conference Convocation series concluded in El Paso on Oct. 25-26, fostering the same spirit of togetherness that the Texico Conference aims to carry forward.

By Debby Márquez Communication Director

El Paso Adventurers Host Cultural Festival

EL PASO, TEX. – On May 18, 2024, the Western Eagles Adventurer Club celebrated World Adventurer Day with an international Sabbath at the diverse El Paso Central English Seventh-day Adventist Church.

In the weeks leading up to the event, the Adventurers learned about different cultures and created poster boards showcasing their findings, such as the meanings of flags, pictures of landscapes and information about typical school lunches. Some children learned about their own heritage, such as Dresdan Barton who studied his German heritage. Others, like Delayla Cazares, Emma Ornelas and Cristiano Bildner, became honorary representatives of Korea and the Philippines. The children eagerly shared their knowledge.

On Sabbath, the children donned their cultural attire and invited the church members to participate by wearing their traditional clothing as well. The church was filled with vibrant colors from around the world.

Michaela Gyabaah, Faith Banda and Kainoa Silva-Sampaio from the Helping Hands class (representing Ghana, Zimbabwe and Hawaii) delivered sermonettes. The entire club, along with church members, sang “Jesus Loves Me” in the native languages of each country represented, including Ghanan, Hawaiian, Swahili, Hangul, Tagalog, Shona, German, Spanish and English. This marked a wonderful close to the Sabbath service and set the stage for the evening’s events.

That evening, a special joint vespers service was held with other Adventurer clubs in the El Paso area. The Adventurers and church members discussed their countries and shared what they had learned.

After sunset, the cultural festival began in earnest. Each culture had a booth where visitors could explore by tasting foods, viewing displays of cultural heritage objects and traditional clothing and even playing games. Highlights included a Scottish castle

and putting green, a Filipino bahay kubo (traditional hut) and a Hawaiian 10-foot wave with a surfboard for photos. Attendees could purchase a passport booklet with a Polaroid picture to be stamped at each booth.

Special events included a visit from Miss Teen El Paso, who stopped by the Mexico booth for photos; a paella demonstration at the Spain booth; and a tinikling dance demonstration by Matalin Miguel and Royal Pugao at the Filipino booth, where the audience were invited to try the dance.

The night was filled with laughter, food and fellowship among the El Paso Adventurer clubs and churches. The cultural festival raised more than $3,000 for student scholarships at El Paso Adventist Academy. It was a fruitful night, and there are hopes to make future events even bigger.

By Irish Pugao

SVA Welcomes New Leadership and Faculty

CORRALES, N.M. – Sandia View Academy (SVA) is thrilled to welcome Patrice Laura (pictured left) as the new head principal and Jennifer Geiger (pictured right) as a new faculty member for the 2024-2025 academic year. This is a notable moment, as it’s the first time in years that SVA will have a full-time principal solely focused on administrative and outreach duties, a shift from the past practice of principals also teaching classes. This change aims to better support the school’s growth and broaden its vision. Both Laura and Geiger bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the SVA team.

Laura is a seasoned school administrator with 26 years of experience in education and nonprofits. She holds a master’s degree in education leadership and certifications in Orton-Gillingham dyslexia and sheltered instruction for diverse learners. Known for her leadership in literacy, data-driven strategies and collaboration, Laura is committed to enhancing student outcomes. Her expertise includes special services management, curriculum leadership and program development, with a focus on inclusivity, compliance and student success in diverse learning environments. She has a strong commitment to investing in youth, emphasizing spiritual growth as a cornerstone of her leadership. Her

grounded approach focuses on creating transformative educational experiences that empower students and staff alike. Laura is a devoted mother and grandmother who values and loves her family.

Drawing on her experience, Laura has already started implementing positive changes at SVA, which the students have welcomed.

“I am ecstatic to be a part of the SVA family,” said Laura. “It has been overwhelmingly warm and welcoming. The students are kind, compassionate and excited for change. Implementing the no cell phone policy was challenging at first, but after three days, they told me, ‘This isn’t so bad, Ms. Laura. I can focus more.’ I am excited about that.”

Laura also has a clear vision for the direction she wants to take SVA. “This year, we are focusing on three primary pillars,” she said. “The first is school safety, which is why students are now required to leave their backpacks in their lockers. This is a new change, and they have been receptive. The second pillar is high academic standards, so I’ve implemented an academic intervention block. The students are excited to have individual time with their teachers to maintain a B average, which is pretty significant. The third pillar is spiritual development and growth. I hope the students will share special experiences, be transparent with one

another and help grow our school community. Through prayer, we aim to build school spirit and learn more about who Jesus is, ultimately falling in love with Him.”

Similarly, Geiger is an experienced educator with a background in teaching English and history at various grade levels. She holds a master’s degree in religion and a secondary teaching certificate. Geiger’s experience includes roles in classroom instruction and research. She and her husband relocated to New Mexico from Arkansas. They have been actively involved in community leadership and service, including Pathfinders and other church-related activities. Geiger is dedicated to creating engaging, technology-enhanced learning environments that cater to diverse student needs, and is deeply committed to youth and their spiritual guidance.

The SVA community takes great pride in their school and is excited to welcome Laura and Geiger. They feel blessed by their arrival and firmly believe that God’s hand has guided them to the school. SVA eagerly anticipates the positive impact these leaders will have on their students and the broader community.

By Debbie Márquez Communication Director

Texico Churches Hold Mortgage-Burning Ceremonies

CORRALES, N.M. – This past summer, Texico Conference leadership and respective church leaders participated in two mortgage-burning ceremonies, one on June 15 in Taos, N.M., and the other on July 27 in Carlsbad, N.M. Both ceremonies were held during Sabbath morning services.

The roots of Adventism in Taos trace back to the early 1900s, with significant growth occurring in the mid-20th century. In 1978, the Taos group officially

became a company, supported by a dedicated leadership team. The congregation continued to grow, leading to the construction of a new church wing in 1986 and the dedication of a full church building in 1988.

Over the years, the Taos Bilingual Seventh-day Adventist Church thrived in their new building, which served as their home for nearly two decades. Their journey includes repairing water damage in 2020 and successfully paying off their mortgage.

In Carlsbad, the Adventist movement began in 1950 with the first public evangelistic meeting, leading to the formation of a small group. By 1951, the Carlsbad Bilingual Seventh-day Adventist Church had acquired land and raised funds to build their first church, which was dedicated in 1952. This

Young Adults Travel for Christ

CORRALES, N.M. – In 2022, when my wife, Shanna, and I joined the Texico Conference, we quickly realized we had a significant mission and abundant opportunities. Our journey began with the Texico pastors and teachers retreat in August 2022, where we were strangers in a new place. It was there that we encountered a group of young people hanging out in a hallway. We introduced ourselves briefly and went on our way, unaware of the profound relationships we would have with these young adults.

We reconnected with Earl Velasquez and Naomi Martinez in the summer of 2024. Velasquez and Martinez are now students at Southern Adventist University. Over the past year, we’ve traveled the world with these young people, witnessing God’s work in incredible ways. From Maryland for North American Division meetings to Denver for the division-level Pathfinder Bible Experience and various other

conference events, we’ve seen it all. The second year of our traveling summer camp, Camp Texico on the Go!, was a huge success, thanks in no small part to the energy and enthusiasm of our young people. We journeyed with a team of eight across five cities in our conference and then north to Gillette, Wyo., where we prepared for camp.

In Gillette, despite a major storm that disrupted our plans and forced many to scramble for supplies and food, our Texico team remained upbeat and resilient. If you follow our social media accounts, you might have seen Martinez, who was affectionately described

marked the beginning of an Adventist community in the area. The Carlsbad church grew over the years, establishing a school in 1953 and hosting successful evangelistic campaigns that welcomed many new members.

In 2000, a new church facility was built. In 2019, a Spanish-speaking group (that had been meeting in a home) joined the Carlsbad congregation, demonstrating the power of prayer and God’s guidance. The Carlsbad church is now bilingual.

The Taos and Carlsbad churches have rich histories of faith and resilience. Their recent mortgage-burning ceremonies celebrate not only financial milestones, but also the dedication of their members and the unwavering support of the Texico Conference.

in Gillette as “everyone knows Naomi!” Her favorite color, yellow, reflects her sunny disposition. Naomi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith. From her early days of searching for truth with endless questions, to now pursuing a degree in theology at Southern Adventist University, she embodies the incredible work God can do in a life fully open to His plan.

We are proud of our Texico youth and confident that God has incredible plans for each of them.

By Eric Chavez

Youth, Young Adults and Club Ministries Director

AdventHealth Invites Young People to a Life of Promise

GILLETTE, WYO. – AdventHealth was the anchor sponsor for the 2024 Believe the Promise International Pathfinder Camporee, a decision that stemmed from a desire to engage a new generation of mission-focused young people and, through three onsite activities, invite them into a life of promise, serving in health care.

In an interview during the official camporee live stream, Terry Shaw, president and CEO of AdventHealth, shared how the last part of the Pathfinder Pledge, which says, “I will be a servant of God and a friend to man,” fits naturally with the mission of AdventHealth: “Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ.”

In learning about the health care field, attendees were also introduced to the wide variety of careers that exist in health care, such as human resource professionals, accountants, carpenters, creatives and even pilots.

The Career Experience was AdventHealth’s largest activity at the camporee. This was an 11,000-squarefoot space with hands-on activities that used cutting-edge technology and was visited by approximately 24,000 attendees. Here, Pathfinders played

interactive tabletop electronic games that demonstrated how different roles at AdventHealth work together to help patients feel whole. They learned CPR skills using augmented reality before moving to a music-based activity that measured the heartbeats of participants and used the rhythm to create a unique symphony.

AdventHealth also taught two honors at the camporee: “Legacy of Healing” and “Health and Healing,” which are part of a suite of five new honors created by AdventHealth in 2024 to help young people live better and healthier lives, learn about health careers and better understand how they can be an extension of Christ’s healing ministry today. Almost 5,000 people earned honors from AdventHealth at the camporee.

“The excitement of the Pathfinders was palpable from the moment they walked into the classroom,” shared Gianni Arroyo, communications specialist at AdventHealth, who attended the camporee and co-taught the Health and Healing honor alongside Hearly Mayr, director of stakeholder communication at AdventHealth. “They wanted to learn, but they also

wanted to contribute to the discussion. Earning the patch and receiving a pin was just an added bonus for them. I feel blessed to have been a part of this, sharing the importance of Christ’s healing ministry and how we all can be vessels of His ministry whether it’s in clinical or non-clinical roles.”

Having recently partnered with Legacy Motor Club, AdventHealth brought Eric Jones’ race car to the camporee for Pathfinders to sign. Pathfinders also wrote messages of support on thank you cards to present to first responders and frontline health care workers. Attendees could also play the Pit Crew Challenge where they could try their hands changing tires much like professional pit crew teams do. This activity demonstrated AdventHealth’s efforts to show up in the community where people gather so they will have a connection with AdventHealth and choose it when they need health care. Approximately 10,400 people signed the car and completed the challenge.

By Brian Henning Manager of Communication Platforms

Southwestern Adventist University

In the Business of Miracles

KEENE, TEX. – Carleigh Corbett, a junior nursing student at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU), believes God is still in the business of miracles. Each morning she spends time praying and reading the Bible or, at times, a book by Ellen G. White. Sometimes she journals her prayers. This not only helps her to be more organized in her thoughts, but also helps her to see how God has answered her prayers. This time connects her with God and

sets her up for the day. “More than anything else,” she says, “it puts me in the right frame of mind, where I can more easily see God working in my life throughout the day.”

This past summer, as Corbett was interning as a nurse’s assistant, her devotional time gave her the patience and grace to deal with difficult patients. One particular day was the worst day of the summer. The patients were mean, the nurses were rude and everything seemed to be going wrong. This left Corbett feeling discouraged and wondering if she should continue to pursue nursing. The thought crossed her mind to quit nursing school and do something else. “Lord let me know where you would have me to be,” she silently prayed. Then, taking a deep breath, she stepped into the next room to help her patient. As she was interacting with the patient, Corbett felt strongly impressed to ask if she could pray for the woman. The patient happily accepted the offer. After the

prayer, she asked if she could pray for Carleigh. Carleigh recounts how beautiful that prayer was amidst the chaos of the day as the patient asked God to guide Carleigh and give her wisdom.

After the prayer, the patient asked Carleigh if she was in nursing school. When Carleigh said “Yes,” the patient looked at her and responded, “Don’t give up, you will make a wonderful nurse. I believe this is what God is calling you to do.” For the remainder of the day, Carleigh kept thinking about the opportunity she would have missed if she hadn’t offered to pray for the patient.

While miracles alone should not form the basis of our faith, they do have an important role in letting us know that God cares for us as individuals. God is still in the business of miracles. The real question is, are our hearts, minds and eyes open to see them?

By Andrew Endi Stojanovic Associate Professor of Theology

Remembering SWAU’s First New Year's Day

KEENE, TEX. – Just as families cherish stories passed down through generations, our university holds its own cherished memories—moments of struggle, hope and triumph.

On New Year’s Day of 1893, Southwestern Adventist University was nothing more than a promise and a few tents pitched on untamed land. Families arrived with little more than faith and determination, their children by their sides, ready to start anew in a place with no buildings, only scrub oaks and winding cow paths.

The Woodall family (top photo), along with the Atwood and French families, traveled 100 miles by covered wagon for nine days to arrive in Keene, Tex. Writing about that day in a 1929 article titled “Keene Pioneer Recalls

First New Year's Day,” A.M. Woodall said, "It meant much for the early believers to leave their homes and come and locate in this wild, barren place, but they believed that the Lord was leading them."

The sacrifices those early settlers made were significant. They left behind the familiar to build a future grounded in faith. Their first week of school, held in a hastily constructed building (bottom photo), marked the beginning of a journey that would lead to the thriving campus we know today.

These stories of our heritage remind us that the strength of our present is rooted in the sacrifices of those whom we follow.

By Coby Federowski Digital Marketing Manager

World War II Museum Exhibit Class Brings History to Life

KEENE, TEX. – This semester, the history department at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) offered students an extraordinary opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the world of museum curation. Professor Steve Jones and Adjunct Professor Chloe Northrop teamed up to create a unique class in which students learned about history while actively shaping how it’s presented to the public.

The course will culminate in an exhibit at the Layland Museum in Cleburne, Tex., commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The exhibit will focus on the real stories of people from Johnson County who served during the war, whether on the front lines or the home front. Through careful curation and interpretation, students are bringing to life the experiences and sacrifices of those who lived through one of the most pivotal times in history.

Jones, who previously collaborated with Northrop on a World War I centennial exhibit at the SWAU library, shared his excitement about the class’s potential. “We’re giving students the chance to apply critical thinking, interpretation and presentation skills in a real-world setting,” he explained. “This isn’t just for history majors—any student with a curiosity about the past and a desire to engage with the community can contribute to this project.”

The students work closely with the Layland Museum’s administration to curate and display artifacts that tell the story of Johnson County’s World War II experience. And beyond the historical and educational value, there’s also a bit of marketing skills being learned as students work on this project.

Students have researched and written some biographies of local people who served, and they are beginning to explore artifacts of the war. “The

museum happened to have a radio component from the war,” said Jones. ”Obviously manufactured in Japan, it has nothing but Japanese markings on it. With the help of the Internet we’ve already been able to determine it was made in Tokyo to fit the radio console of a Japanese anti-aircraft battery. Quite a find, really, and we were excited to discover its purpose.”

The exhibit will open with a special reception on Dec. 3, offering the community a chance to connect with their local history in a profound way. It’s not just a class—it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on how history is remembered and shared.

By Coby Federowski Digital Marketing Manager

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EMPLOYMENT

Andrews University is seeking qualified Seventh-day Adventists who may fill open roles in fulfilling our mission to Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith and Change the World. If this is of interest to you, please check out our current openings at Andrews.edu/admres/jobs.

It Is Written seeks qualified and talented candidates for full-time positions, including: director of planned giving and trust services, trust officer for the central region and associate director of development. For more information on these and other positions, and to apply online, please visit ItIsWritten.com/employment

Southern Adventist University continuously seeks qualified candidates to fill various positions around campus, including faculty, salaried staff and hourly staff positions. If you are interested in working at Southern, please view the positions that are currently open at Southern.edu/jobs and apply as God leads. Visit Jobs.adventisteducation.org to view current open educational positions (Pre-K through college) across the North American Division.

Union Adventist University has an opening for a clinical coordinator for the physician assistant program. This position provides administrative support, organizes and schedules the clinical rotation year (including clinical sites and housing), prepares

affiliation agreements and performs other duties. This is a full-time position with generous benefits including tuition subsidy for dependents. Please see the full job description and instructions for the application online at UAU.edu/employment

REAL ESTATE/HOUSING

Summit Ridge Retirement Village, an Adventist community in a rural setting, offers affordable homes or apartments with caring neighbors and fellowship you will enjoy. Onsite church, planned activities and transportation as needed. Onsite Wolfe Living Center offers independent living and nursing homes. Contact Bill Norman at 405.208.1289 or visit SummitRidgeVillage.org

If you are looking for a furnished room in the quiet, peaceful community of Cross Oak Ranch in Cross Roads, Tex., look no further! It’s on the main floor of a single-family home. Access to laundry room, kitchen, living room, large backyard and parking. $700 a month! Utilities included! Close to Interstate 35, near two state universities, shopping and recreation. Please call 240.405.6632 or 720.519.9926

MISCELLANEOUS

Wings of Life missions: Follow the journey of frontline missions in Central America as we plant churches, conduct health outreaches and more. Read the exciting stories, pray for the work and consider volunteering on a short-term trip. Follow, engage and partner with us in our mission of Moving

People. Visit the website WingsofLife.net for more information. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

2025 Great Controversy Tours, March and September. See the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation come alive! Visit 60 places in 15 cities, including Rome; Italy; and Reformation sites in the Waldensian Valleys, Switzerland, Germany and France. A truly exciting experience! Call 1.470.833.2887 or email GCtours@naver.com

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

Shop for New/Used Adventist Books: TEACH Services offers used Adventist books at the website LNFbooks.com or new book releases at TEACHServices.com or your local ABC. Authors, let us help you publish your book with editing, design, marketing and worldwide distribution. Call 706.504.9192 for a free evaluation.

Holiday programs: Fill your life and home with a Christian Christmas spirit. LifeTalk Radio plays Christmas music all through December with special concerts nightly at 8 p.m. EST, from December 21 through 25. Enjoy Christmas music 24/7 at LifeTalk.net

Partner with ASAP Ministries in serving the marginalized

Carolyn Faith (Van Arsdell) Sampson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on June 24, 2024, in Evans, Ga. She touched many lives with her kindness, love and compassion.

Faith was born in Lexington, Ky., on Dec. 28, 1934, to Roger and Henrietta Van Arsdell. Throughout her life, she demonstrated devotion to her faith and was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. For 24 years, she was a member of the Gentry Seventh-day Adventist Church. She loved her family, children and grandchildren and enjoyed sharing stories about her life experiences. From 1972 to 1977, she served in the mission field of Lesotho. After years of being a dedicated wife and mother of four children, she then worked as a secretary for many decades, including at the University of Tennessee’s

and reaching the unreached in Southeast Asia with the wholistic gospel. What you do today can change a life for eternity! To learn more about us, visit AsapMinistries.org Subscribe to weekly Mission Matters videos. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube: ASAPministries

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OBITUARIES

Green, Stephanie Means, born July 10, 1949; died Aug. 26, 2024, Baton Rouge, La. Church membership: Faith

biology department. One of her unique accomplishments was receiving her pilot’s license, an uncommon feat for a woman in those days. She enjoyed praising God through playing the piano and singing hymns at church and home.

Faith is survived by her four children, Cheryl Kruger (Glen), Skye Williams (Mark), Doug Johnson (Dana) and Heather Fullenkamp (Scott); ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Roger Van Arsdell (Marcia); and sister-in-law, Jeanette Van Arsdell. Additionally, she leaves behind step-children, Chris, Valerie, Anna and Jamie (as well as their spouses, children and grandchildren). She is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Sampson; brother, Ronald Van Arsdell; and parents, Roger and Henrietta Van Arsdell. Her legacy will live on through cherished memories.

Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, Craig R. Means and Dolores Baranco, of Washington and maternal and paternal grandparents. Survivors: daughters, Magan and Andrea Green; five grandchildren; stepmother, Patricia Means of Silver Spring, Md.; cousins; and Godchildren.

Greene, Linda Wallace, born June 15, 1956, Jefferson, Tex.; died July 10, 2024. Church membership: Jefferson Academy Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, Gaston and Marjorie Miller Wallace, and three uncles. Survivors: husband, Jim Greene; son, Nicholas Norris; twin sister, Karen Wallace Atwell and birth mother, Shirley Cline.

Hubbartt, Gail Martin, died April 13, 2024. Church membership: Jefferson Academy Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by

Violet Belz Bishop was born on April 4, 1937, in Taylor, Tex., and died Aug. 28, 2024, in Gainesville, Tex. She was the fifth child born to Albert and Nona Belz, and grew up on a farm in Era, Tex., where she graduated from Era Secondary School.

Violet was a member of the Gainesville Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she served in many different ways throughout the years. She enjoyed sewing and became a seamstress, working at a sewing factory in Whitesboro, Tex. She also spent many years working as a caregiver.

Violet is survived by daughter, Teresa Roe; son, Steve Bishop (Laurie); sisters, Vernell Argo and Annie Kirk; brothers, Herbert Belz, Lee Roy Belz, Daniel Belz (Barbara), David Belz, Glenn Belz (Debra) and Fred Belz (Johnette); sister-in-law, Thelma Belz; granddaughters, Desiree and Jamie; great-grandchildren, Lacie and Noah; and many nieces and nephews.

Violet was preceded in death by her loving husband, Floyd Bishop; parents, Albert and Nona Belz; brother, Gideon Belz; brothers-in-law, Bob Argo and Homer Kirk; sisters-in-law, Gloria Belz and Anna Mae Belz; nieces, Suzan Lewis and Melanie Belz; and nephews, Greg Kirk and Larry Schank.

Danny Newman Hance Jr. passed away at age 67 on July 19, 2024, in Fort Worth. Danny was born in Dallas on April 26, 1957, to Helen Combs Hance and Danny Hance Sr. He attended the Grand Prairie church school, Adams Junior High and Grand Prairie High School, graduating in 1975. After graduating, he started working for the City of Grand Prairie, where he spent about 15 years (leaving for a short period to work with his future father-in-law, Dwight Blackwell, at Turtle Creek Towers). In 1991, he started working as a state employee for the 136th Civil Engineering Squadron, starting out at the naval air station at Hensley Field, then transferring to the naval air station joint reserve base in Fort Worth, where he served as the maintenance supervisor. He finished his career back at Hensley Field, where he retired on July 31, 2014. During his life, Danny enjoyed many things: motorcycles and spreading the Word of God are just a couple. You could always find him outside, either fishing or taking care of his garden. He loved spending time with his family, whether that be while

camping or playing music on his guitar. He was deeply involved in Native American culture and was adopted into the Comanche tribe in 2018.

During his life, Danny started two motorcycle ministries: Lone Star Advent Messengers in Texas and Beacon Hill Bikers in Arkansas. Through these ministries, he met many people and helped many others with fundraisers to benefit the community. He was also involved in prison ministries for 11 years. In 2015, he moved his family to Arkansas to fill the role of Bible worker, supporting the De Queen (Beacon Hill) Seventh-day Adventist Church and community.

Danny is preceded in death by his father, Danny Sr. He is survived by his wife, Kristi Hance; mother and step-father, Helen and Francis Kripps; sons, Danny Hance III (Shara) and Ben Hance (Jen); daughters, Jessicah Hillberry and Amelia Christopher; sister, Julie Wojtowicz (Rick); brother, Jerry Hance (Rowena); grandchildren, Mia, Jacob, Danny IV and LilyBelle; and nephew, Coby.

Evadeane Peters was born in Ponca City, Okla., on April 12, 1925, the only child of Frank and Mildred Phillippi, and passed away July 20, 2024. The family moved to Kansas City, Mo., and as a child, Evadeane loved her active Kansas City Central Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she was allowed to practice piano and organ after school. She moved to the Dallas area when she married Henry B. “Pete” Peters, an Air Force veteran who practiced medicine in Royse City, Tex., and later at Carswell Air Force Base. Dr. Peters passed away in 2006. The couple’s only child, Pamela Evadeane, gifted them with four grandchildren: Cory, Sandra Rene, Ashley Evadeane and Heather.

Evadeane served the Texas Conference for 15 years in the communication and women’s ministries departments and was part of a group that visited Adventist churches in Russia to strengthen their women’s ministry efforts.

Evadeane served the Dallas First Seventh-day Adventist Church in many capacities, including deaconess,

husband, Raymond Hubbartt; son, Martin Hubbartt; and a great-grandson. Survivors: daughters, Rhonda Norman (Ron) and Jill Baugous (Leonard); eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Oblander, Elmer LaDon, born July 10, 1939, Alva, Okla.; died Aug. 14, 2024, Enid, Okla. Church membership: Okeene Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, Goldie (Meier) and Elmer Oblander, and son, LaDon Oblander. Survivors: wife, Sharon Oblander; daughters, Starla Bernhardt (Jim) and Sheryl Pepperman (William); son, John Oblander; brother, Duane (Barbara) Oblander; three grandchildren; and an aunt.

Seales, Edward Daniel, born July 26, 1949, Baton Rouge; died

communication secretary, home and school leader, church clerk and social committee chair. She was a volunteer music teacher and choir director at Dallas Junior Academy (now Dallas Christian Academy). Linda Becker, who was a young member at the Dallas First church when Evadeane was there, recalls, “The role model I wanted, and who shone brightly everywhere she went, was Mrs. Peters who exemplified the joys of being a ‘gladventist.’”

Later, at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, Evadeane played piano and organ, chaired the hospitality committee and found speakers for the chapel Sabbath school. She was active in the Keene Camerata, established by Mugur Doroftei. “We took the college students to perform in Europe,” she said. “Good times!”

Just a few months shy of her 100th birthday, Evadeane went to sleep until Jesus comes. She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Evadeane; son-in-law, Rusty Singer; grandchildren, Cory, Sandra Rene, Ashley and Heather; and countless friends.

Aug. 11, 2024, Baton Rouge. Church membership: Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by parents, Edward and Henrietta Seales; and wives, Cherrie Harris-Seales and Carolyn Blevins-Seales. Survivors: sister, Nancy Seales Ball; a nephew; and a niece.

Thornton Price, Carolyn (Caroline) Jeanette, born April 12, 1942, Baton Rouge, La.; died July 15, 2024, Denham Springs, La. Church membership: Baton Rouge Seventh-day Adventist Church. Preceded in death by husband, Bobby L. Price, and sister, Betty Smith. Survivors: brother, Johnny Johnson of Bastrop, La.; two daughters, Ellen Price Kreamer (Robert) and Caroline Price Smith (Judson), of Denham Springs, La.; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.”

Hebrews 9:28

Submissions

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Back Pages: Submit announcements, milestones, obituaries and address changes to Record@SWUC.org or visit SWURecord.org.

Advertising: For cost information and deadlines contact: Bradley Ecord at BEcord@swuc.org.

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. Southwestern Union academies, and elementary/junior academies for the 2024-2025 school year are listed below.

ARKANSAS-LOUISIANA

CONFERENCE

Bentonville SDA School 2522 SE 14th St., Bentonville, AR 72712

Ewing Adventist Jr. Academy 709 Adventist Church Rd., Bonnerdale, AR 71933

Greater New Orleans Christian Academy 5220 Irving St., Metairie, LA 70006

Harrison SDA School 4877 Hwy. 392 West, Harrison, AR 72601

Hot Springs Adventist School 401 Weston Rd., 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 Academy 20997 Dawn Hill East Rd., Gentry, AR 72734

Ozark Adventist School 21150 Dawn Hill East Rd., Gentry, AR 72734

Shreveport Adventist Christian School ...... 3217 Colquitt Rd., Shreveport, LA 71118

OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE

Ardmore Adventist Academy 154 Beaver Academy Rd., Ardmore, OK 73401

Bristow Adventist School P.O. Box 1074, Bristow, OK 74010

Heritage Adventist School ............. 20555 S. 4170 Rd. Unit B, Claremore, OK 74017

Muskogee SDA Christian Academy....6106 W. Okmulgee Ave, Muskogee, OK 74401

Parkview Adventist Academy....4201 Martin Luther King, Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Pioneer Adventist Christian School ..................... P.O. Box 1245, Guymon, OK 73942

Tulsa Adventist Academy 900 S. New Haven, Tulsa, OK 74112

SOUTHWEST REGION CONFERENCE

Applegate Adventist Christian Academy P.O. Box 729, Round Rock, TX 78680

Bethel Adventist Church School P.O. Box 660, Texarkana, TX 75504

Emmanuel Adventist School 702 N. Cherry St., Hammond, LA 70401

Excel Adventist Academy P.O. Box 2240, Missouri City, TX 77459

MLK Christian Academy 4295 Prescott Court, Baton Rouge, LA 70805

New Orleans Adventist Academy 4500 Gawain Dr., New Orleans, LA 70127

Shiloh Excel Christian School 2400 S. Maple St., Little Rock, AR 72204

S.W. Adventist Jr. Academy 1600 Bonnie View Rd., Dallas, TX 75203

TEXAS CONFERENCE

Advent Ridge Academy 1523 Old Ranch Rd. 12, San Marcos, TX 78666

Burleson Adventist School 1635 Fox Lane, Burleson, TX 76028

TEXAS CONFERENCE (CONTINUED)

Burton Adventist Academy 4611 Kelly-Elliott Rd., Arlington, TX 76017

Chisholm Trail Academy P.O. Box 717, Keene, TX 76059

Cleburne Adventist Christian School 111 Meadowview Dr., Cleburne, TX 76033

Coggin Memorial School 6645 Downing St., Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Conroe Adventist Academy 3601 S. Loop 336 E., Conroe, TX 77301

Cypress Bend Adventist Elementary 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 Rd., Garland, TX 75041

Houston Adventist Academy 11702 Grant Rd. Ste. B, Cypress, TX 77429-2973

Joshua Adventist Multigrade School 1912 Conveyor Dr., Joshua, TX 76058

Katy Adventist Christian School 1913 East Ave., Katy, TX 77493

Keene Adventist Elementary School 302 Pecan St., Keene, TX 76059

Killeen Adventist Jr. Academy 3412 Lake Rd., Killeen, TX 76543

North Dallas Adventist Academy 2800 Custer Pkwy., Richardson, TX 75080

Scenic Hills Christian Academy 11223 Bandera Rd., San Antonio, TX 78250

South Texas Christian Academy 7001 N. Ware Rd., McAllen, TX 78504

Stonehill Christian Academy 4301 Kelly Lane, Pflugerville, TX 78660

Tyler Adventist School 2931 South S.E. Loop 323, Tyler, TX 75701

TEXICO CONFERENCE

Amarillo SDA Christian Academy P.O. Box 32543, Amarillo, TX 79120

Canyon Christian Academy 1000 S. Canyon Rd., Alamogordo, NM 88310

Crestview SDA Academy 6000 Ouray NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

El Paso Adventist Jr. Academy 3510 George Dieter Dr., El Paso, TX 79936

Las Cruces SDA Academy 3520 Elks Dr., Las Cruces, NM 88005

Lubbock Jr. Academy ........................................5302 Elgin Ave., Lubbock, TX 79413

Roswell Adventist Elementary 2915 S. Union Ave., Roswell, NM 88203

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

Sandia View Christian School .......................... 24 Academy Dr., Corrales, NM 87048

The North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists Nondiscrimination Policy Statement For Adventist Schools

Southwestern Union of Seventh-day Adventists

PO Box 4000, Burleson, TX 76097

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Witnessing God’s Protection

In their recent mission trip to Paraguay, team members from AdventHealth in Texas recall “witnessing God’s protection” as they saw nearly 800 patients over the course of threeand-a-half days.

Patients traveled over 93 miles to be seen by AdventHealth teams for gynecological appointments, pregnancy ultrasounds, respiratory illnesses and wound care.

Horqueta, Paraguay is one of 16 international partnership locations established through the AdventHealth Global Missions program. Through this partnership, AdventHealth aims to share its mission and provide care to local underserved communities through mission trips and other activities.

To learn more about AdventHealth Global Missions, visit AdventHealthGlobalMissions.com.