In this issue of OUTLOOK we take a look back at the beginnings of the Seventh-day Adventist women’s ministries initiative in North America nearly 40 years ago. Not surprisingly, it all began with a few forward-thinking individuals in MidAmerica territory who understood that something was missing and set out to bridge the gaps.
Today, women’s ministries leaders are facing a whole new set of opportunities, and are rising to the occasion by channeling time and energy into mentoring new leaders and equipping them with the necessary tools for leadership, resilience and spiritual growth.
To learn more about some of the current opportunities, including academic scholarships, please see p. 5-7. And please remember to pray for the women in the circle of your life, that they may flourish in Christ Jesus.
ON THE COVER READ OUTLOOK MAGAZINE
Amber Patterson, Ylian Lora and Makayla Benson are part of the MAUC women’s ministries focus group.
Scott Cushman news@uau.edu 402.486.2600 x2275 uau.edu
BRENDA DICKERSON editor
History of Women’s Ministries Shows its Power and Impact
If we are honest, women’s ministries throughout the Mid-America Union is one of the most effective, impactful and appreciated ministries in which our church is involved. Mid-America has only had three leaders at the union level. It began with Evelyn Glass. She served nearly 18 years as leader and then Nancy Buxton began her tenure, which lasted 20 years. Just a year ago, we asked Elder Donna Brown to provide leadership for the union when Nancy retired. Donna is doing a wonderful job standing on the shoulders of both Evelyn and Nancy. Over the years, some have questioned the need for women’s ministries. I have heard criticisms like: “Why do they need to meet separately?” and “What needs do they have that cannot be addressed when we are all together?”
The truth is there is a great need for women’s ministries in our churches. They have shown, time and again, that this is not about getting together to be critical of the men in their lives but, rather, to support one another in their journey with their Savior. The retreats our women ministries leaders provide offer a wonderful time of fellowship, worship and commitment. Young women often find mentors with whom they build life-long friendships.
Many women find women’s ministries to be a home in which they can use the gifts of ministry they have been given to help others. The outreach alone that happens with women’s ministries is powerful.
Additionally, most of the women’s ministries events that take place in our union are not funded. They happen because volunteers give of their time and resources to make them happen, and the women themselves contribute to attend.
Loving outreach
I personally can attest to the heart and soul of our women’s ministries leaders. While local conference women’s ministries leaders met together in November in our union office for Year-End Meetings, they decided to do some outreach together. One of the places they visited was the assisted living facility where my mother lives (pictured above). My father passed away six years ago, and Mom is no longer able to live independently. There are some sweet people in our community and church who visit her on occasion, and it just makes her day!
Carol Huenergardt, an elder at College View Church here in Lincoln, is one who visits my mother and often brings communion to her, prays with her, and spends time with her.
My mother was just overwhelmed with joy because of a surprise visit she received from the women’s ministries leaders, planned by our very own Donna. They did not just stop by, have a short prayer, and then leave. They brought her a meaningful gift, and even sat on the floor and asked her to tell them her story. You cannot put into words the worth of that kind of loving outreach to someone who is not able to be a part of church life in the way she loved to be for years and years. Before the visit concluded, these ladies asked my mother to pray for them, too, and she cherished this opportunity to bless them by lifting them up to Jesus.
Support for the future
What can we do to support women’s ministries? For one thing, decide not to be a critic but rather
GARY
THURBER is president of the Mid-America Union.
a supporter of all they do to bless the women in our churches and communities. Lift up our leaders in prayer as they go about their work. Most of all, thank our women’s ministries leaders for the hours they volunteer to plan and provide events and outreach programs that touch the lives of women, young and old.
It has been a pleasure to watch women’s ministries grow in our union over the years under the direction of wonderful leaders. It will be exciting to watch where it goes from here! Blessings to you, Donna, as you continue to provide leadership for women’s ministries happening around our union.
Courtesy Donna Brown
HONORING OUR PAST WHILE
Equipping the NEXT GENERATION
As we enter 2026, I find myself reflecting on the journey of 2025—my first year serving at the union level after previously leading as the women’s ministries director for the Central States Conference, one of the six conferences within the Mid-America Union. What began with responsibility for one conference quickly expanded into all six, a trust from the Lord that has been both humbling and enlightening. Ministering across such a wide spectrum of cultures, age groups, and life experiences has deepened my prayer life and strengthened
Reflecting on a year of women’s ministries and looking to the future
my walk with my Savior. Those who know me understand that I am a people person at heart. I strive to ensure that no one feels overlooked or unheard. Transparency remains our guiding principle, and through it, God continues to use us to touch lives along the way. Indeed, we matter.
This past year, we celebrated the trailblazers of the Mid-America Union Conference—women who paved the way for ministry leadership. We honored Sis. Evelyn Glass and Sis. Nancy Buxton for their faithful service as women’s
ministries leaders. Toward the close of the year, we visited Sis. Shaeron Turner at Allon Chapel and Sis. Patsy Thurber, mother of our president Pastor Gary Thurber. These seasoned women of the union have set enduring examples of what ministry looks like when led by our Heavenly Father.
Focusing on the next generation
As I traveled throughout the union during 2025, one pressing need became clear: we must intentionally support young women in their 20s and 30s—whether single,
married, working professionals, mothers or wives. These women face unique challenges, often compounded by the subtle stares or quiet judgments they encounter in both church and social settings.
To address this, we have formed a diverse focus group of young women to help plan a leadership conference. Among them are Makayla Benson of Salina, Kansas; Amber Patterson of Omaha, Nebraska; Ylian Lora of Omaha, Nebraska, Damonica Adams, St. Louis, Missouri; Amber Fellers, Greely, Colorado; Alexis
Williams, Kansas City; and Meghan Curtis, St. Joseph, Missouri—along with others from across the MidAmerica Union. Together, we aim to equip them with tools for leadership, resilience and spiritual growth. This event, tentatively scheduled for May, will carry the theme: “Come as you are, but you can’t stay as you are.”
During our early focusgroup discussions, these young women spoke with honesty and depth about what draws people to Christ—and what quietly pushes them away. Again and again, the message was clear: ministry must begin with kindness, safety and genuine relationships.
“Together, we aim to equip them with tools for leadership, resilience and spiritual growth.”
“One of the most important things is making church a safe place,” one participant shared. “Not just inside the building, but everywhere we go. You never know what someone is battling. Instead of judging what they wear or how they look, we should simply say, ‘I’m glad you’re here.’ One act of kindness can bring someone not only to church, but to God.”
Another young woman spoke about how everyday life itself can become ministry— through a word, a presence, or even a message on a car window. Others emphasized that inviting someone to
church must be rooted in relationship, not just a one-time gesture. “If you invite someone, you should walk with them,” one participant said. “Be their friend first. Ministry should be consistent, not temporary.”
Technology also emerged as a powerful outreach tool. From short devotional videos to social media posts and podcasts, these young women see digital spaces not as distractions, but as
MAUC president Gary Thurber shows support for Mid-America Union’s women’s ministries leaders, present and past: (l-r) Donna Brown, Evelyn Glass, Nancy Buxton. For more information visit midamericaadventist. org/womens-ministries or Facebook: Mid-America Women’s Ministries
modern mission fields— places where seeds of faith can still be planted.
Our mission is to prepare these women for ministry not with judgment, but with encouragement and empowerment. It is time for us to step aside, while still offering guidance and support, as they rise to lead in the work of the Lord.
Building community across the union
Our local conference women’s ministries leaders are actively shaping programs that meet the diverse needs of women and families. From single-mom retreats (where children are welcome) to annual gatherings that celebrate cultural heritage, their vision is both inclusive and inspiring. Ministries extend beyond retreats, with community outreach initiatives, Bible study groups, and prayer circles offered both in person and online, ensuring connection for every woman regardless of location.
We invite you to explore the women’s ministries page on the Mid-America Union Conference website, where you’ll find details about each conference, upcoming events, and calendars of activities. Take time to get acquainted with our dedicated women’s ministries leaders, whose passion and commitment continue to strengthen the sisterhood across our union.
Donna Brown is the women's ministries coordinator for the Mid-America Union Conference.
NAD WOMEN’S MINISTRIES SCHOLARSHIPS Investing in Education
Ahigh priority for women’s ministries is promoting the North American Division women’s ministries scholarship program, which provides vital support for young women pursuing higher education at Seventh-day Adventist colleges and universities.
Eligibility requirements
• Must be members of the Seventhday Adventist Church
• Must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at an NAD institution
• Must maintain minimum GPA of 3.0
• Applicants are evaluated on their commitment to the church’s mission, leadership skills, community outreach, academic achievement, and financial need
Impact over the last five years
• $84,000 was awarded in scholarship funds
• 37 recipients were supported
• Students from 9 Adventist universities and colleges benefited
Support for this scholarship fund can be offered in two ways: by purchasing the women’s devotional book available through AdventSource (with proceeds directed to the scholarship program), or by contributing directly to the NAD Women’s Ministries Department.
A call to continue the journey
As we look ahead to 2026, our mission remains clear: to honor the legacy of seasoned leaders, empower the next generation, and invest in education that strengthens both faith and community. The Lord is coming soon, and we are preparing women—young and old—for ministry that reflects His love and purpose.
Donna Brown is women’s ministries coordinator for the Mid-America Union. To learn how to apply for this scholarship, contact her at Donna.Brown@maucsda.org
2025 WOMEN’S MINISTRIES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
Hi, I’m Hannah Ikpeama. I graduated with my BSN last December from Union Adventist University. I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, attending Central Seventhday Adventist Church
and Hillcrest Seventh-day Adventist School, before moving on to Sunnydale Adventist Academy, where I discovered a love for mission work and service. I was blessed with opportunities to serve in India, at La Vida Mission in New Mexico, and through various community outreach projects that helped shape my passion for ministry.
Over the past several years, I’ve served with Kids Camp and community outreach programs in Kansas City, working with refugee and inner-city families to share the love of Jesus. These experiences have
shown me that even when service requires sacrifice, God always makes a way for it to remain a meaningful and consistent part of my life— something I hope to carry into my nursing career as well.
During nursing school, I discovered a deep love for maternal and child health. I’m excited to begin my career in Labor & Delivery at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission and look forward to pursuing further education as God leads.
I love building relationships, singing and creating meaningful memories and
connections. My family, friends and everyone who has walked alongside me have played a huge role in where I am today. I feel incredibly blessed by the people God has placed in my life to encourage and support me on this journey.
Most recently, He has added yet another reminder of the power of community through the generous donation I received [through the NAD women’s ministries scholarship]. I’m deeply grateful and hope to be a clear example of what your support can make possible.
HOW ADVENTIST EDUCATION TRANSFORMS LIVES ACROSS THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE Empowered Through
PURP SE
EFrom top: Harper Drane, Lillian Resz, Max Bicknell, and Luca Lu
ach year, the MidAmerica Union Conference’s OUTLOOK magazine invites students from across the region to share their experiences through personal essays that reflect the heart of Adventist education. These authentic stories offer a window into how our schools shape faith, character, resilience and purpose. The following selections highlight just a few of the powerful voices from the Rocky Mountain Conference whose journeys illustrate the profound mission of Adventist education and its enduring impact on students’ lives.
Across the Rocky Mountain Conference, students are experiencing Adventist education as more than academics. It is an environment that dignifies their stories, strengthens their faith, and calls them into purpose. Their voices reveal a truth we cannot ignore. When Christ is at the center, lives change.
For seventh grader Harper Drane, the impact was immediate. After hearing her friend describe her experience in public school, Harper realized what she had gained.
“My teachers care, and they value you and your opinion,” she shares. “They always help, no matter how busy they are.”
In a world where young people often feel unseen, Harper has found belonging and guidance.
At Campion Academy, Lillian Resz stepped into a spiritual transformation she didn’t expect. Leaving a public school environment that had pulled her away from church, she discovered a community that brought her back to Jesus. “I now see education as something that helps me grow spiritually and learn real things about life,” she writes. “I view devotion, prayer and my relationship with God as a gift.”
Then there is Max Bicknell, whose journey from skepticism to baptism began with one unexpected moment during Week of Prayer. “I felt like a weight had been lifted off of me,” he remembers. That moment changed the trajectory of his life. “Adventist education helped me realize what I want to do with my life: lead others to Him.”
And beyond the classroom, Adventist education continues shaping lives. Luca Lu, a
student who entered Youth Rush carrying “fear, anxiety and depression,” found God waiting for him at the door of a stranger’s home. After a long, discouraging day, his simple prayer was answered when he met a woman who spoke his language and bought every book he carried. “It wasn’t a coincidence,” he writes. “God had prepared that door for me.”
Through friendships, worship, and one powerful encounter, Luca discovered that mission is not about numbers. It is about revealing God’s love to people who need it most.
These students’ stories converge into one resounding message. Adventist education empowers and shapes students’ lives through Christcentered learning so they can influence the world and fulfill God’s eternal purpose. Supporting this mission means investing in students who are finding faith, courage, identity and hope. These lives are being transformed. Their future impact will be immeasurable.
Diane Harris is education superintendent for the Rocky Mountain Conference.
NORTH AMERICAN DIVISION
NAD Year-End Meeting Highlights
Leaders of the North American Division gathered for six days during the 2025 Year-End Meeting to review the state of the church, vote on mission initiatives, and seek God’s direction through worship and prayer. Reports from the president, secretariat and treasury—along with updates on education, digital evangelism, Pentecost 2025 and the OneVoice27 initiative—outlined key priorities that will impact churches across the division, including in the Mid-America Union.
NAD president G. Alexander Bryant called the church to depend fully on God’s power as it moves forward in mission. Using the theme “Not by might, nor by power,” Bryant urged members to work with creativity, unity and faith. He reminded leaders that true progress happens when the church moves together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than relying on human strength.
The NAD Secretariat report led by Kyoshin Ahn focused on God’s steady presence across the division. Leaders shared that the Seventhday Adventist Church in North America now includes 1,306,533 members, as of the third quarter of 2025, showing both continued growth
and expanding responsibility for ministry. The report highlighted how churches, schools and departments continue their work with organization, faithfulness and trust in God’s leading.
The Treasury report presented by Judy R. Glass titled “Mission in the Numbers” showed how financial resources continue to support the work of the church. Leaders shared that tithe and offerings remain the primary financial foundation for evangelism, education, outreach and daily operations. Glass introduced a new report on how tithe dollars are used. Looking at the median of all the world divisions, 39.7 percent goes to operating expenses and 36.4 percent to pastor salaries, with direct evangelism coming from the remaining percentage. The report emphasized careful planning and faithful stewardship so that mission remains the center of every financial decision.
Encouraging news was shared for Adventist education. A special report from the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities announced that fall enrollment increased across the North American Division. Total fall enrollment across all 13 campuses has risen
to 21,125 students, continuing a three-year trend of growth and representing a 2.8 percent increase during that period. The growth reflects rising confidence in Adventist education. This highlights the importance of continued support for local academies and, particularly in Mid-America, for Union Adventist University as they prepare students for service.
Pentecost 2025 was also highlighted during the meetings through video reports featuring updates from unions across the division, including the Mid-America Union territory. These updates reflected growing momentum and collaboration for large scale evangelism, community outreach and disciple-making efforts as churches seek to reach their communities in spirit-filled and practical ways.
Leaders also addressed the General Conference OneVoice27 initiative, designed to help conferences, churches and unions work together to reach people through websites, social media, video and online Bible studies in a more focused and coordinated way. Each union was asked to share highlights from their OneVoice27 breakout discussion sessions. Following
these reports, President Bryant called for a vote asking whether the division would officially participate in OneVoice. The motion passed, making the North American Division an official part of the initiative.
During that discussion, Angeline Brauer from NAD health ministries urged leaders to include health outreach from the very beginning of planning rather than later in the process. “Don’t treat us as second thoughts,” she said. “We would love to be part of things from the ground up. Please use us.” Her comments supported a stronger focus on whole-person ministry across the division.
The final day of the meeting centered on spiritual renewal under the theme “Come, Holy Spirit.” Worship and prayer reminded those in attendance that programs and plans depend fully on God’s guidance. Leaders were encouraged to keep prayer at the heart of ministry and decision making.
Each autumn, year-end denominational meetings follow a familiar order— beginning with the General Conference, followed by the North American Division, then the unions, and finally the local conferences. The reports, votes and initiatives shared at the NAD YearEnd Meeting help guide the direction of local churches, schools and conference leadership across the region.
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
MID-AMERICA UNION
Mid-America Union Executive Committee Prays and Plans for 2026
Members of the MidAmerica Union Executive Committee gathered on Nov. 20, 2025, for their regularly scheduled fall meeting to receive reports, vote on ordination recommendations, and discuss the preliminary budget for 2026. The 38-member group is composed of institutional leaders, pastors, educators and lay members from all six conferences in the union.
The day began with a focus on prayer led by new Union Adventist University chaplain Mollie Duper. She reminded the group that “when we face mighty giants we must pray mighty prayers.” Pastor Mollie shared multiple stories of prayers answered in marvelous ways in her life and also the lives of students at Union Adventist University in the past few months. “Don’t just add prayer to your schedule; build your schedule around prayer,” said Duper before asking the group to spend time praying together in small groups.
The day-to-day of accomplishing mission During his remarks, MAUC president Gary Thurber introduced new members of the committee. He also paid tribute to LouAnn Howard, former MAUC education director who passed away in September.
Thurber then shared updates from around the union, including the dates for constituency sessions happening in 2026 (two local conferences and the Mid-America Union).
Thurber also mentioned the newest General Conference evangelism initiative called OneVoice27 slated for September 2027.
Hubert J. Morel, Jr., MAUC vice president for administration, presented the union’s membership report in a printed format, which showed a slight overall increase YTD in membership. The current membership total for the union is 67,119. Morel also brought forward two names for ordination of individuals who serve as chaplains at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission.
During the financial report, recently-elected MAUC vice president for finance Roy Simpson reported a union-wide tithe gain of 2.14 percent YTD, as of August 2025. Simpson also presented the MAUC 2026 preliminary budget, which was unanimously approved.
Collaboration is key
In the report from Union Adventist University, presented by President Yami Bazan, she shared new initiatives and a number of relevant statistics. She also stated that plans are developing with MidAmerica Union’s conference youth directors for student recruitment. Repeatedly, Bazan emphasized that collaboration is our key to the future.
The focus on collaboration continued through reports from AdventSource and AdventHealth Shawnee Mission. New hires and new products and processes
were highlighted by both organizations. AdventSource president Brad Forbes spoke about the upcoming leadership transition that will occur when he retires in 2026-27 and president-elect Pastor Andre McCloud begins to serve as president.
Sam Huenergardt, Chief Executive Officer for AdventHealth’s Mid-America Region, spoke about the new hospital that opened in Lenexa, Kansas. He also highlighted the significant number of AdventHealth leaders that have come from Union Adventist University’s business program.
Carisa Carr, newly-elected MAUC director of education, showed her passion for Adventist education saying, “Our teachers are growing the future leaders of our church and they are preparing the way for what is coming for the church.” Carr also continued the theme of collaboration in describing the partnerships of our Adventist academies with Union Adventist University. “We are stronger when we connect and collaborate,” she said.
The teacher shortage continues Carr reported that total student enrollment is stable at all levels including early childhood through grade 12. She stated that about 65 percent of our students come from Adventist families, which presents a big opportunity for supporting students on their spiritual journeys. Currently there are 234 teachers in Adventist schools in Mid-America territory. Unfortunately, several schools did not open this fall because they could not find a teacher. Most of the schools in Mid-America are small schools (one to three teachers) where multiple grades learn in one room.
Learning and leading
The MAUC Executive Committee meeting concludes a busy week for conference leaders of learning, information sharing and team building led by each department of the union. The next Mid-America Executive Committee is scheduled for April 23, 2026.
Brenda Dickerson is editor of OUTLOOK magazine.
Carisa Carr presents the office Office of Education report to the MAUC Executive Committee.
Hugh Davis
Award-Winning Communicators Represent Mid-America at SAC
The Society of Adventist Communicators celebrated excellence in various communication-related fields during its annual awards banquet last fall, recognizing Adventist communicators and students from across the North America Division. Several individuals from the MidAmerica Union Conference territory were honored for their significant contributions to communication ministry.
Jodi Dossenko, communication director for the Dakota Conference, received first place in the Professional Campaign Design category. This marks the first time a local conference in the MidAmerica Union has won first place in this category.
Her project, Dakota
Savannah Carlson (fourth from left) and Seth Coe (fourth from right)
Adventist Academy Today: A Comprehensive Picture, was created to help delegates clearly understand the academy’s situation ahead of a major vote. As a one-person communication department, Dossenko collaborated closely with conference leadership managing design, messaging and strategy across print and digital platforms.
Savannah Carlson, communication and human
resources director for the Minnesota Conference, earned an honorable mention for Long-form Feature Writing. Carlson also serves as a single-person communication office supporting multiple ministries and departments across Minnesota, and her article highlighted Maplewood Academy during a challenging season.
Union Adventist University student Seth Coe earned an honorable mention in Long-form Feature Writing as well, representing the next generation of communicators who are preparing to contribute to the church and community through media and ministry-focused storytelling.
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
Mid-America Welcomes Karen Senecal as Undertreasurer
Karen L. Senecal, MBA, CPA, has accepted the invitation of the Mid-America Union Conference to serve as undertreasurer beginning Feb. 1, 2026. She will fill the position vacated by Roy Simpson, who is now the union’s vice president for finance.
Senecal most recently served as vice president for finance for
the Potomac Conference.
She has also served as treasurer and director of Planned Giving and Trust Services for the New Jersey Conference and treasurer for the Ohio and Oklahoma conferences. Other roles Senecal has held include senior auditor for the General Conference Auditing Service and assistant/associate professor at three universities or colleges, including Southwestern Adventist University.
In 2001, Senecal became a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Virginia. She earned a Master of Arts in Teaching Business Education from Andrews University and a Master of Business
Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington. Early in her career, she also taught at Mount Pisgah Academy in North Carolina and worked as an accountant in Fort Worth, Texas.
“We are blessed beyond words to have Karen joining our team. The Mid-America Union will be richly blessed by her experience and her passion for service,” said Roy Simpson Mid-America Union president Gary Thurber added, “MAUC is so blessed to have someone with Karen’s expertise and experience to come work with us. In addition, she loves the Lord and our church and will be a blessing
throughout our territory.”
Senecal said she is thankful for the opportunity to serve the Lord in the Mid-America Union. “I look forward to working for Him in my new role. I know He has extraordinary blessings in store for all of us and I’m excited to follow His leading as I work throughout the MAUC.”
Senecal added that her brother and sister-in-law live in Olathe, Kansas, and are members of the Chapel Oaks Church. Senecal and her mother, who lives with her, are happy to be moving much closer to them.
OUTLOOK staff
Jodi Dossenko (third from left),
Courtesy Karen
Senecal
How Regional Conferences Began in the Seventh-day Adventist Church
Regional conferences were born out of pain, but they have produced powerful ministry that continues to bless the church today.
Regional conferences within the Seventh-day Adventist Church were born out of both numerical growth and pain. In April 1944, the General Conference leadership voted to create regional conferences— church administrative units led by Black leaders—so that Black Adventists could organize, minister and evangelize more effectively. Within a year, three conferences were operating, and within two years, seven—including the Central States Conference—had been established.
A LANDMARK VOTE
On April 10, 1944, at the General Conference Spring Meeting in Chicago, world church leaders voted to support allow the creation of “colored conferences” (the language of the time) in any union where Black membership was large enough and resources were sufficient.
The official action stated that these conferences would be led by Black officers and committees, but they would have the same standing as every other local conference. At the time, there were more than 17,000 Black Adventists in 233 churches across North America—a strong foundation for this new model.
Voted: “That a different
plan of organization for our colored membership would bring further great advance in soul-winning endeavor.” — General Conference Spring Meeting, 1944
WHAT PROMPTED CHANGE
The vote was the result of years of frustration. Black Adventists had explosive growth grown in numbers and influence, but leadership opportunities were limited. The denomination had created advisory departments for “Negro” (1909) and later “Colored” (1942) work, but they lacked real authority.
Black senior citizens were not allowed to stay in conference facilities that their tithe dollars helped to build. They were not allowed to enter the front door of conference headquarters and they were not allowed to eat with their Anglo counterparts.
The crisis came to a head in 1943 when Lucy Byard, a Black Adventist, was refused treatment at Washington Sanitarium because of her race. She was moved to another hospital, where she died. Her tragic story highlighted the injustice Black members faced—even in their own denomination.
Her death inspired
pastors and lay members to form the Committee for the Advancement of the Worldwide Work Among Colored Seventhday Adventists. This group presented the General Conference with what they believed was the clearest solution: full integration of Black Adventists into the existing conference system.
But, as historian Calvin Rock records in his book, From Protest to Progress, the GC Executive Committee rejected full integration. Instead, they chose to establish separate Blackadministered conferences, believing this would allow for “great advance” in mission while avoiding the hard confrontation of racial prejudice within the existing structures.
That decision was a compromise. It gave Black leaders real authority, but only through creating parallel structures. For many, this underscored the painful reality that equality was still denied, even within the church.
THE FIRST REGIONAL CONFERENCES
Change came quickly. On September 26, 1944, the Lake Union Conference voted to create the Lake Region Conference, which officially
began operations on January 1, 1945. That same day, the Northeastern Conference and the Allegheny Conference also launched.
By the end of 1946, a total of seven regional conferences had been organized across North America. Among them was the Central States Conference, created to serve members across a wide swath of the Midwest.
SEPARATE, BUT EQUAL IN STRUCTURE
Regional conferences were never intended to be a “split” from the church. Instead, they became fully recognized parts of the same system—reporting to their unions, the North American Division, and ultimately the General Conference.
Today they have the same responsibilities as other conferences: hiring pastors, funding schools, planting churches, and supporting mission. The difference is that Black leaders ware now in charge of making those decisions for their members.
“Regional conferences sustain the same relation to their union conferences as do the white conferences.” — GC Spring Meeting Minutes, 1944
THE
BIGGER PICTURE
Regional conferences were
created during an era of legal segregation in the United States. Schools, hospitals and even churches were often divided by race. The church, like society, reflected that reality.
At the same time, the new structure empowered Black leaders to grow vibrant institutions. Regional conferences started schools, led evangelistic movements, and built strong congregations. They trained and launched leaders
who later served across the denomination—some in the highest offices of the church.
By 1954, the General Conference renamed its “Colored Department” the Regional Department, confirming the permanence of this system.
LASTING IMPACT OF CENTRAL STATES
For nearly 80 years, the Central States Conference has played a key role in the life
of the Adventist Church. Its territory stretches across nine Midwestern states, giving it a unique identity as a regional conference with both rural and urban congregations. Central States has been known for dynamic evangelism, innovative community service, and the development
of strong leaders. It carries forward the vision of those early members in the 1940s who wanted a structure where Black Adventists could flourish in leadership and mission.
Hugh Davis is communication director for the Mid-America Union.
To learn more about Regional Conference Ministry, visit adventistregionalministries.org/about-us
Fearless Faith on Full Display as Great Plains Youth Federation Unites in Worship and Fellowship
Young people from Central States Conference churches across Iowa and Nebraska gathered last November at College View Academy in Lincoln, Nebraska, for the Great Plains Youth & Young Adult Federation. The event brought the theme “Fearless” to life through worship, fellowship and spiritual growth. The main speaker for the worship service was Pastor Elijah Johnson. He currently serves as part of a ministry team in Iowa, leading the Philadelphia Seventhday Adventist Church
in Des Moines and New Life Christian Ministry in Waterloo within the Central States Conference. His message challenged youth and young adults to trust God even when life feels uncertain. He reminded them that faith is not about the absence of fear, but the courage to move forward in spite of it.
Throughout the worship experience, the atmosphere was filled with energy, praise and purpose. Youth and young adults lifted their voices, hearts and hands in worship, declaring their boldness in Christ and their
commitment to live out their faith without fear.
Following worship, the evening continued with the AYS program, which featured powerful testimonies, creative expression, and a renewed call for youth and young adults to live “Fearless” every day. The program gave participants a chance to reflect, share and be encouraged in their faith.
Later in the evening, the focus shifted to fellowship and connection as local churches faced off in a friendly volleyball tournament. Cheers, teamwork and community spirit filled the space, bringing youth and young adults together in a fun and encouraging way and strengthening bonds between churches across the region.
The Great Plains Youth & Young Adult Federation was created to bring young people together for worship, community and spiritual growth.
It gives youth a place to connect, build relationships and strengthen their faith in a positive and supportive environment. The purpose of the event is to empower a generation to live fearlessly for God and to remind them they are not alone in their walk of faith.
The impact on participants was clear. The gathering helped ignite confidence in God, deepen a sense of community, and renew boldness to live out faith with clarity and purpose. “I believe the youth discovered that trusting God isn’t just a lesson but it’s a lived experience,” said Pastor Byron Wright. “And because of what they felt and saw here, they left knowing they can walk into life fearless and full of faith.”
Information provided by Byron Wright, youth director for the Central States Conference and pastor of the New Beginnings Church in Wichita, Kansas
Dakota Conference Hosts “Crafted by Grace” A weekend of worship and fellowship
Over 100 faithful women gathered last September for a weekend of spiritual and physical renewal at the historic Rough Riders Hotel in the quaint community of Medora, North Dakota. The town sits beside Theodore Roosevelt National Park, giving attendees easy access to the surrounding landscape.
The historic town also has a hiking trail within a couple of blocks of the hotel. On Friday afternoon, before the retreat officially began, eager hikers met early to walk the trail, led by Tami Flemmer and Char Timothy.
The retreat theme “Crafted by Grace,” based on Ephesians 2:10, set the stage for the décor and for reflections on how special and important we are to our Creator.
Keynote speaker Jean Boonstra led the ladies through a series of inspiring sessions woven together with
an intriguing story of her own family.
Elder Donna Brown, Mid-America Union women’s ministries director, was one of the two featured breakout speakers. Elder Brown’s topic was “Purge, Merge, Then Consecrate” based on Joshua
3:5 and Romans 12:1. She invited attendees to consider lives set apart for God’s purposes and the call to intentional spiritual growth. Shelly Paul from the 31:8 Project shared the organization’s mission to equip and challenge individuals and communities to proactively address the hidden crisis of human trafficking, advocating for the vulnerable through education, prevention and survivor support.
During lunch on Sabbath, the group was surprised by a visit from President Theodore Roosevelt! In reality, the visitor was Joe Weigand, an actor who portrays the president at many public presentations.
On Sabbath afternoon, ample time was intentionally set aside for rest and fellowship. Ladies were
able to explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park and take advantage of National Public Lands Day, a nationwide observance that allows visitors to enjoy public lands without a park pass. Others chose to visit with one another, while some attended the book club meeting led by Anita Kopplin. When the sun went down after an amazing Sabbath of rest and renewal, the lights went up on an entertaining fashion show! Participants were encouraged to purchase an outfit from a charitable thrift store to model on the runway. They had the option to sell all or a portion of the outfit as a fundraiser for Dakota Conference women’s ministries, adding a fun element to the weekend.
This year’s Woman to Woman project was to
Paulette
Bullinger
Speaker Jean Boonstra shares a moment with “President Theodore Roosevelt.”
provide gift cards for the 31:8 Project. The gift cards are used to help trafficked victims with food, personal care
products, groceries and other essentials. The ladies attending were extremely generous!
In addition to the
wonderful speakers and outstanding weekend, attendees were blessed by the talented musicians Jodi Dossenko and Joann O’Hare. Leading out with traditional and contemporary praise songs, they shared reflections on how special and important we are to our Creator, and their sense of humor and energy were delightful.
This year’s retreat included many first-time attendees. Thanks to a great planning team and Dakota Conference staff, the retreat was phenomenal, and many expressed
appreciation for the warm welcome and thoughtful details throughout the weekend.
We are looking forward to gathering again in the fall of 2026, when the Dakota Women’s Retreat will be held September 18-20 in Bismarck, North Dakota, on the campus of Dakota Adventist Academy, with Elder Donna Brown serving as the featured speaker.
Paulette Bullinger is the Dakota Conference women’s ministries director.
Nevada Nativity Brings Christmas to Life
In conjunction with Nevada, Iowa’s, A Hometown Christmas on Main, the Seventh-day Adventist Church created a drive-through live nativity last December that looked like a snowy Bethlehem. With help from the Nevada Frogs Pathfinder club and Nevada Christian School, Bethlehem was a real town in Iowa. The stable housed the newborn Babe, watched over by the angels, while a pony and chickens looked on. Cows mooed nearby, and the shepherds watched their sheep and goats.
The Roman soldiers guarded the tax collector, the bread maker, the potter, the weaver and the basket makers, who milled around their tents and the fire pits. The city provided a hayride from downtown, and others drove through or stopped to pet the animals. Each family went home with a copy of Steps to Christ tucked in a bag containing church and school information.
“To us, evangelism looks like community involvement and working towards filling community needs,” said church member Gina Beldin. “This is one of the quarterly community activities our church has planned. We’re working on developing friendships, being present in our community, and showing the love of Jesus.”
Information provided by Nevada Church member Gina Beldin
Nevada Church
Iowa-Missouri Conference Women’s Retreat Draws Nearly 300 for Weekend of Spiritual Renewal
Nearly 300 women gathered at the Embassy Suites in Kansas City for the Iowa-Missouri Conference Women’s Retreat 2025, a weekend focused on spiritual growth and community under the theme “My Story, God’s Book.”
Among the attendees were 65 young ladies between the ages of 13 and 21, who participated in programming designed specifically for them alongside the main retreat sessions.
Featured speaker Donna Brown encouraged and inspired attendees by sharing how God has taken her personal tragedies and used them for His glory. Her messages centered on the retreat theme, helping women see their own life experiences through the lens of God’s redemptive work.
The young ladies received
special attention from speaker Demetria Bedeau, who delivered encouraging messages about letting God write the beautiful story in their lives. Using real-life examples, she encouraged the young women to be who God created them to be and to walk proudly as daughters of the King.
Throughout the weekend, attendees enjoyed visiting the Adventist Book Center, a vendor craft room, and a dedicated prayer room. Seminars offered throughout the retreat encouraged, inspired and brought new perspective to many topics.
The retreat concluded with the women’s ministries team joining hands and offering a prayer of blessing over all the ladies in attendance.
Information about the 2026 Women’s Retreat will be released soon. For up-todate information and to stay connected, join the IMSDA Women Facebook page, where you will find details on upcoming events around the conference, encouragement from various ministry departments, resources and a community of women across Iowa and Missouri. URL Link: https:// www.facebook.com/groups/imsdawomen
Ami Cook is women’s ministries director for the Iowa-Missouri Conference.
Ami Cook (left), Iowa-Missouri Conference women’s ministries director, shares a moment with a friend at the retreat.
Kansas-Nebraska’s 2025 Women’s Retreat Focuses on Being “Anchored in Christ”
Last October, women from across our conference gathered in Kearney, Nebraska, for a memorable women’s retreat. With open hearts and eager spirits, we came together for a weekend of worship, learning and fellowship, all centered around this year’s theme: “Anchored in Christ.”
Hebrews 6:19 reminds us that “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
Throughout the weekend, we experienced how God’s presence anchors our hearts, helping us trust Him more fully and find peace in His promises. Whether worshiping, attending seminars or encouraging one another, the Holy Spirit filled every moment with love and peace. The retreat offered a beautiful balance of inspiration and refreshment. Uplifting
music lifted our hearts in worship, and morning exercise energized us for the day. Seminars and breakout sessions encouraged growth both spiritually and practically, while Saturday night’s creative craft activity brought laughter, connection and good memories.
Our main speaker, DeeAnn Bragaw, shared powerful messages reminding us that, just as pearls are formed through pain, God uses storms and challenges to shape something beautiful within us. Many women shared how God is gently calling them to deepen their faith and walk closer with Him. We also reflected on the importance of surrender and forgiveness, letting go of burdens, forgiving ourselves and others, and trusting that God’s love and grace are greater than our struggles. Spending time in God’s Word was highlighted as essential for staying Anchored in Christ, giving us strength and confidence to face life’s storms. Hearing personal testimonies reminded us of the power of sharing our stories, encouraging one another, and building meaningful fellowship. One participant shared,
“My sisterhood experience was awesome. No matter what storm I face, God is already there, holding out His hand to walk me through it.” Another reflected, “Life is different now—by letting Jesus be a real presence in my life, He carries the burdens I used to bear and helps me with my struggles.”
The retreat left us renewed and inspired, with hearts ready to stay rooted in Scripture, walk in forgiveness, encourage one another, and remain Anchored in Christ. We praise God for His presence, for the friendships formed, and for a weekend that reminded us that the hope we have in Jesus is truly “firm and secure.” Many women are already looking forward to next year’s retreat, eager to continue growing together in faith, love and fellowship.
Miriam Dovald is Kansas-Nebraska Conference’s women’s ministries director.
2025 Hispanic Couples Retreat Strengthens Homes
Conference hosts a weekend of faith, love and renewal
This year’s Hispanic Couples Retreat was a beautiful reminder of how God guides every step when we trust Him. We gathered in Kearney, Nebraska, believing that the couples meant to be there would come. Even though the retreat landed just one week before Thanksgiving break—which can be challenging for parents with kids in college or academy—we prayed that God would make a way for each family, and He did.
At first, registrations were slow. Couples had questions about the new location, the longer drive, and the timing. But as the days passed, something wonderful happened.
In the final week, God opened the doors, and the registrations began to come in quickly. It was a clear sign that He was preparing hearts for a special weekend of
connection and renewal.
The retreat itself was filled with blessings. Our guest speakers, Mike and Laura Rosario—also known for their “Forgiven” music ministry—shared messages that were honest, practical and centered on God’s love. Many couples expressed how much the workshops helped them reconnect and refocus on their marriage through a spiritual perspective.
We were also grateful to welcome six visiting couples who attended for the first time. Watching them participate, engage and experience God’s presence reminded us how important it is to open doors for new families seeking growth and healing in their relationships.
The hotel provided excellent service, and participants enjoyed the meals. Saturday evening’s romantic dinner created a warm and meaningful atmosphere. Couples shared simple words of appreciation with one another, and we heard a few lighthearted poems and sweet
expressions of love. It wasn’t anything fancy—just simple and sincere, the kind of moments that remind us why marriage is such a gift from God.
One of the most beautiful moments of the weekend was witnessing a couple renew their vows before the Lord. Surrounded by friends and fellow couples, they recommitted their marriage to God with sincerity and love. It was a touching reminder of the power of commitment and the presence of God in our relationships.
This year’s retreat reminded us once again that God is present in every detail—seen and unseen. We are grateful for every couple who attended, for the new friendships that formed, and for the opportunity to strengthen homes through faith, love and unity. Truly, God blessed the weekend from beginning to end.
Jasmin Cortes is administrative assistant for Hispanic ministries at the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.
Community Leaders Depend on Maplewood Academy for the Best Volunteers in Town
Almost everyone in Hutchinson, Minnesota, knows where Maplewood Academy is. It’s the school up on the hill, the one with a lawn full of dazzling maples, the school where kids live in dorms and people go to church on Saturdays. But thanks to a smiling army of hardworking students, Maplewood has also gained another reputation: It’s become the best place in town to find consistent, eager community volunteers.
Because of longtime relationships formed by school registrar Laura Cummings, local service groups have learned to call Maplewood first when they need helpers who won’t let them down. Many staff members share Laura’s passion for discipling
students in outreach, including chaplains September De Franca and Linda Vigil
Looking for extra holiday bell ringers in December? Maplewood students will pull on their hats and mittens and show up.
Need enough volunteers to sort and pack more than 3,000 Christmas shoeboxes, plus a few strong arms to load the boxes onto semi-trailers? Maplewood students (along with friends from Hutchinson Adventist Church) would love to help.
Wondering how to gather and organize 2,000 pounds of food needed for Thanksgiving baskets? Maplewood students can do that too.
These ministries are familiar, and that’s part of the
secret. Food pantries, senior centers, and adopt-a-highway programs probably exist in your town also. By partnering with established charity groups, Adventist churches and schools can double the
impact of our service efforts. First, we bless neighbors who need food, clothing, or friendship (Matthew 25). Second, we form meaningful connections with other volunteers who care deeply about the community.
One of Maplewood’s most fruitful partnerships is with Common Cup, a local organization dedicated to sharing spiritual and financial resources with those in need. As part of a program called Hunger Free McLeod County, students and other volunteers pack hundreds of meals, which are then delivered to schools where teachers can slip them into children’s backpacks so they have easy-to-make meals for the weekend.
You may have heard this question: “If your church (or school) disappeared tomorrow, would anyone notice? And would they miss you?”
Thanks to the untiring efforts of Laura Cummings and her fellow teachers, Maplewood students have become an irreplaceable force for good in their neighborhood. They are known for their willing smiles, their contagious laughter, and their habit of pausing to pray for the recipients of their service.
In addition to gaining diplomas and scholarships, these students will finish academy with the eternal wisdom they gained while walking in the footsteps of Jesus. “For I was hungry, and
you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited
me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me”
Reformation Day Party Combines Learning and Fun
Annual fall event grows in popularity each year
The Rochester Church celebrates Reformation Day each year on October 31st with a fun party for all ages. Instead of trying to find an acceptable way of celebrating a day dedicated to death and ghosts and demons, they have gone in another direction altogether.
On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses onto the church door at Wittenberg, Germany. He did this to spark debate and reform, but really lit the fires of the Reformation across Europe.
It all started for the Rochester Church in 2022, when Stephanie McNeilus started searching online. She didn’t want to celebrate death with her children, but neither did she want to hide
away and avoid people on the day many people celebrate Halloween. She found a Christian mom’s blog about how to celebrate Reformation Day with a party, including directions and activities.
The first year, she held a party for her children and some other family members as a test run. For the last three Octobers, the party has been held at the church and all children and families are invited. Attendance has increased with each year.
So far, the evening begins with a potluck supper, usually with a fall theme - like soup and sandwiches. Then all are invited to participate in some Reformation activities. These have included nailing a copy of the 95 Theses to a large wooden door, a tossing game
with the papal bull, a gummy worm game (for the Diet of Worms), and Waldensian game tried this year. We end the evening by watching a kid’s movie about Martin Luther.
“I’m committed to doing this on Halloween night, no matter what day it is,” she says. When it occurs on a
school night, Stephanie and the other leaders keep the event short so children can get to bed at a decent time. “There is so much that even adults don’t know [about the Reformation]. And we can have fun with it!”
(Matt. 25:35, 36, NIV).
Becky Scoggins is a freelance writer in Minnesota.
Minnesota Conference
Sarah Little is a member of the Rochester Church in Minnesota.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE
RMC Hispanic Women’s Retreat Encourages
Attendees To “Get Closer To Him”
Around 185 women from across the Rocky Mountain Conference gathered at Glacier View Ranch in Ward, Colorado, for the annual RMC Hispanic Women’s Retreat last October. The theme for the weekend was “Get Closer to Him,” and keynote speakers Cesia Alvarado and Cindy Baez led participants through inspiring messages centered on deepening their relationship with God.
Ruby Guillen, the unofficial RMC Hispanic women’s ministries volunteer director and lead of the event, shared her personal connections with the weekend’s speakers. She first met Alvarado while attending college in Montemorelos, Mexico, and their paths crossed again later in life as pastors’ wives. Ruby met Baez through her sister-in-law, and the two became instant friends.
Throughout the weekend, the sermons reminded attendees to stay close to God despite rejection, criticism or the opinions of others. These challenges can often distance people from their faith and lead to feelings of worthlessness; however, the speakers emphasized the importance of remaining grounded in
God’s love and continually seeking His guidance.
Cecilia Chavez, a young adult from the Montrose Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist, reflected on her experience:
“This weekend reminded me how much I need the Lord in every part of my life. I came home with a desire to draw closer to Him and make changes that keep His presence near. I learned that He calls me by name and loves me deeply, no matter what I’m going through.”
Meanwhile, the teen-aged participants held their own meetings with Baez, focusing
on discovering their identity and purpose in God.
Grace Guillen, a youth from the Denver South Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church, shared her biggest takeaway:
“My biggest takeaway is that it doesn’t matter what the world labels you. The only thing that matters is what God says about who you are. And even though we might feel like we are not enough for the world, we are enough for God. If we allow Him to work in and through us, we can do amazing things.”
To conclude the weekend, the women gathered for a tea party-themed celebration,
featuring a lively fashion show where participants showcased their beautiful outfits and enjoyed warm fellowship. Reflecting on the weekend, Ruby Guillen emphasized the importance of such gatherings, remarking, “The importance of having women’s retreats is to address the specific spiritual challenges that women face, spend time together in fellowship, disconnect from everyday life, and most importantly, draw closer to God.”
Alexia Chavez is treasurer for the Montrose Hispanic Seventh-day Church.
Over 180 women gathered at Glacier View Ranch for a weekend to “Get Closer to Him.”
One of the favorite activities for the retreat was the tea party.
Western Slope Women’s Retreat
Themed “Gift of Grace”
The Western Slope Women’s Retreat, held last September, was an amazing experience as almost 80 women gathered to bask in studies under the retreat theme “Grace is a Gift from God.” The setting was the beautiful Mountaintop Retreat above Montrose, Colorado.
There were delightfully decorated boxes throughout the retreat. To “fill” them, the participants were asked to put a note on the outside of the boxes stating what grace meant to them. In total, 81 notes of God’s grace covered the boxes.
Eilene Field and Thelma Hufman, deaconesses of the Montrose Church, led out the program on Friday afternoon with an informative and delicious cooking demonstration providing samples for almost 40 women.
The featured speaker was Jeannie Ryan, a nurse practitioner and missionary. Her relatable messages on grace, intermingled with heartfelt stories, were valuable to those attending.
Alisha Knutsen, member of the Golden Church, spoke on how the gift of God’s grace makes us perfect through
the righteousness of Christ.
Linda Johnson, member of the Gand Junction Church, remarked, “As a storm broke around the mountain retreat, Alisha spoke from her heart about God’s sustaining grace, love and power. Her message encouraged us to be able to walk through the storms of life and be victorious in Jesus.”
Mona Fellers, Sabbath school secretary for the Torrington Church in Wyoming, spoke on the grace displayed at Simon’s feast and the alabaster box.
Music swelled on the mountain with the praise team leading with songs celebrating the theme of God’s grace. Women from LaVida Mission* also sang praise songs in English, Navaho and Spanish, and the girls from Castle Valley Academy in Grand County, Utah, sang acapella in beautiful harmony.
A powerful concert was held Saturday afternoon with familiar gospel songs and the song, “Edelweiss” by Kenny and Jenifer Easton and Kenny’s mother, Dr. Kresten Mauk Saturday night was full of talk and laughter, a beautiful sign craft, and chair massages.
Food was prepared
ahead by the Western Slope Women’s Retreat team headed up by Judy Kelly, Montrose Church’s women’s ministry leader, and Jerilyn Pester, also from the Montrose Church. Several men were kind enough to volunteer to prepare and serve the food and clean up after each meal so the participants could enjoy the retreat.
Attendees also participated in a service project to help LaVida Mission by donating three vacuum cleaners and a variety of cleaning supplies.
Tracy Archuleta, a participant from Salt Lake City, Utah, commented, “I am so thankful to attend the Mountain Top Retreat at Montrose. I have attended twice and am always blessed! I have since invited two other women and one of them invited another woman. They were very blessed as well, and one of them found connections from the past which was another blessing for her.”
She continued, “Judy Kelly is always so helpful in getting registered, and Linda Johnson always makes me feel loved and seen—two very kind
ladies. It’s such a joy to come and see them each year and get to know more women of God, which always fills my cup.”
Archuleta added that she also enjoyed the cooking demonstrations, which were very healthy and delicious. “We were given the recipes for them, and I will be making them soon. I also loved the special music and speakers. They were great messages and heavenly voices. Montrose is a special place for me as my parents are from the area and it’s not too far to drive from Salt Lake City,” Archuleta concluded.
The event organizers hope to see everyone next year in the second week in September to take part in a blessed, refreshing experience with God.
* La Vida Mission is a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church but is not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Mona Fellers is the Sabbath school secretary for the Torrington Church in Wyoming.
A favored activity of the retreat was the cooking demonstration facilitated by Eilene Field and Thelma Hufman.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY
Living the Language
For nine months, Dr. Toews is experiencing Biblical Greek in its original context. She is already passing on new
Dr. Lena Toews spends her days immersed in Koine Greek. No other language is permitted. She has been in Sounio, Greece, for the past five months and will remain for another four. From 8 am to 4 pm her days are filled with reading, speaking and analyzing ancient texts. Though the work may sound intense, Toews finds it energizing. “The greatest challenge is that there are not
insights to students.
more hours in the day,” she said. “The work and study are so interesting that I always want more time.”
Toews, who teaches biblical Greek in Union Adventist University’s Religion Program, learned about this opportunity while attending annual professional meetings in San Diego hosted by the Biblical Language Center. She had already incorporated the BLC program into her Greek
The language program is located not far from the ruins of temples dedicated to Poseidon (pictured) and Athena that would have been in regular use during the time of Paul’s journeys.
courses and knew its founder, Dr. Randall Buth, who pioneered teaching Biblical languages using the same methods as those for modern languages. Since 1996, he has run a Hebrew-language program in Israel that helps scholars achieve a deeper understanding of the language in what Toews calls “its most natural environment.”
“I was invited by Dr. Randall Buth, founder of the Biblical Language Center and a United Bible Societies translation consultant,” Toews said, “after a colleague and co-author informed me that Dr. Buth was forming a team to help establish an immersive Biblical Greek program in Greece and encouraged me to participate.” After prayer and careful consideration, Toews knew God was leading her to go to Greece for a nine-month seminar called “Preparation for Bible Translation.”
Her cohort includes teachers and learners selected by Buth’s team from several countries. Some will eventually return to their homes to create Bible translations in their own languages. For Toews, the goal is to fully adopt the language to bring ancient texts to life for her students and her scholarly work. By the end of the nine months of immersion, Toews hopes to “internalize
and ‘feel’ the Koine Greek language so deeply that it leads to better translation and interpretation based on solid exegetical insights,” which she describes as “invaluable for a Bible scholar and professor.”
She hasn’t been waiting to return home to share her newfound insights on the language with her students at Union. She has continued teaching over Zoom. “I like how she brings a hard subject into a new light,” said Caleb Miller, a sophomore theology major. “We’re still memorizing a lot of things, but we do it in a way that’s natural.”
Between studying and teaching classes with an eight-hour time difference, Toews explores archaeological sites associated with early Christian texts as well as the wider ancient world, gaining context to better understand the language and times of the New Testament. She is also eagerly preparing for May, when her students and colleagues from Union’s Religion program and other academic disciplines will join her in Greece for a two-week study tour.
Toews has grown fond of the people of Greece, praising their hospitality and warmth. She enjoys visiting the Seventh-day Adventist international church and the Greek-speaking Seventh-day Adventist church. She likes
Courtesy Lena Toews
sampling Greek cuisine, especially the traditional Greek salad with local olives. On Sabbaths, she enjoys “sitting by the sea, walking where Paul walked, and praying where he preached. His life becomes part of my life.”
What she misses most about Union is seeing her students outside the classroom. “I miss talking with them in the cafeteria or at my house, seeing them at Friday night vespers as they pour out their hearts to God, and running into them around campus when they stop by our department to say ‘hi,’” she said. “I can’t wait to share my adventures to inspire my students, colleagues and friends to explore, learn and grow for themselves.”
Toews said she has thoroughly enjoyed learning while also helping others. “I know that the knowledge and work here will benefit many in the future and even touch lives with the gospel.” She reflects this conviction through the words of a
well-known Bible scholar and translator, Edward L. Greenstein:
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY
“The act of translation ascribes sense not only to the intelligible but also to the barely intelligible and even to the unintelligible. The original enfolds within it untold levels of meaning and suggests a plethora of associations. The original purveys mystery in a way a translation rarely can. A translation necessarily transforms the opaque into the transparent. Accordingly, to read a translation [of a Bible text]… is inestimably simpler than reading the original.” (Job: A New Translation, New Haven: Yale University Press, 2019, p. 31)
For Toews, this immersion in Koine Greek is about dwelling in that richness of the original text, so that future translations, teachings and readers may come closer to its depth and nuance.
Seth Coe is a sophomore writing studies major from Canon City, Colorado.
Whether sightseeing, studying or eating, Toews spends her days surrounded by scholars from around the world speaking exclusively Biblical Greek.
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AdventHealth Leaders Unite to Build Bicycles to Benefit Local Children
In October 2025, leaders from every AdventHealth campus in Johnson and Franklin Counties came together for a powerful day of service hosted in partnership with LEVEL 12 during their Ultimate Bike Building Program. The event resulted in the assembly and donation of 25 brand new bicycles to children and families across the Kansas City metro region.
AdventHealth teams worked side-by-side to build new and name-brand bikes that would go on to support students and families through various community organizations.
“As a community of leaders driven by our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ, we selected this program to benefit our community of neighbors knowing that, for children, bikes build character and confidence,” said Dave Kennedy, MDiv, DMin, vice president of mission and ministry for AdventHealth Mid-America Region. “The newly built bicycles were donated to six local organizations, each with a unique plan to use the bikes to inspire, reward and support children.”
Partner organizations included:
• Boone Elementary School with Center School District where bikes will be used as rewards for students who exemplify Boone’s core character traits of being respectful, responsible and safe.
• Indian Creek Elementary School with Center School District where bikes will be raffled during parent nights and parent-teacher conferences to encourage engagement and celebrate positive behavior.
Brendan Johnson, president and CEO of AdventHealth Ottawa, and a team of AdventHealth leaders complete the bike building challenge for the community.
Members from community organizations received 25 brand new bikes to benefit the children and families they serve.
• Growing Futures Early Childhood Center in Overland Park, Kansas, where bikes will be distributed during the winter break event to families with older children, alongside essential holiday support items.
• Child Abuse Prevention Association where bikes will be gifted to families receiving counseling services, with one bike designated as a “community bike” for shared neighborhood use.
• Life Spring Church and the Spring Hill SOS Event at Spring Hill School District where bikes will be given to students participating in the SOS Event, which provides school supplies, physicals, helmets and haircuts to more than 100 students annually.
• Shawanoe Elementary School with the Shawnee Mission School District where bikes will be raffled off during a family night and the PTA Carnival to promote school spirit and family involvement.
“Every day at AdventHealth, we look for new ways to give back to the community we love and care for,” said Sondra Wallace, director of community benefit for AdventHealth Mid-America Region. “We believe that caring for the whole person—body, mind and spiri—is what matters most. Giving children the chance to feel whole by getting access to a bike, a staple of childhood, is one of many ways we are caring for them now and caring for their future.”
Since 1962, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission has been proud to support initiatives that align with its mission through compassionate service, regional impact and community engagement.
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
Easing the Winter Blues: Experts Share How to Restore Wholeness to Body, Mind and Spirit
As daylight hours lessen, daylight savings time begins and schedules swell, many people may notice a dip in mood and energy. For some, those feelings go beyond the “winter blues.”
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression linked to reduced daylight during the fall and winter months, when people’s bodies and routines shift.
With awareness, simple daily choices and the right support, whole-person health can be possible throughout every season.
Causes and symptoms of SAD
“The exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood and can be triggered by different factors for different people,” said Brad Sjostrom, LCSW, MAC, AdventHealth Porter’s director of behavioral health.
“But shorter days mean less vitamin D production, which affects serotonin, the brain chemical that helps regulate mood.”
The symptoms often mirror those of major depression, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy and difficulty concentrating.
“While SAD occurs more often in regions with less daylight, holiday stress can heighten its impact for anyone, regardless of where they live,” he said.
Healing through connection and community
Social connection can also help combat the symptoms of SAD.
“When you’re feeling down, it’s natural to want to stay home or keep to yourself,” said Joe Oria, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and AdventHealth Porter’s behavioral health clinical supervisor. “But being around people who care about you — like friends, family or even coworkers — can be one of the most beneficial ways to support mental health and start feeling better.”
Cultivating mindfulness, gratitude and balance Alongside connection, mindfulness and gratitude are also meaningful ways to restore balance to the body, mind and spirit.
“Start with simple, mindful practices, like journaling to nurture gratitude and grounding,” Oria said. “Writing down what you are grateful for helps shift your focus toward hope and possibility.”
The holidays can bring about joy and togetherness, but that can also come with hectic schedules, high expectations and emotional strain. Both experts emphasize the importance of balance and self-care, noting that it’s perfectly okay to rest or decline an invitation.
“Healthy boundaries are
important for both mental health and whole-person health,” Oria said. “When we rest, we make room for practices that can bring joy and peace.”
Renewing energy through light and movement
In addition to setting boundaries, creating a routine centered on light can be beneficial.
“Spending time outside, even for a short walk, can make a real difference,” Sjostrom said. “Light exposure, regular movement and steady sleep patterns help the body regulate mood and energy. Even something as simple as opening the blinds during the day can help.”
When natural light is limited, light box therapy can signal the body to stay awake and help regulate mood and energy. Used briefly each day, these special lamps safely simulate sunlight and support the body’s natural balance.
“It’s an easy, effective option that works well for many people,” Sjostrom said.
“Combined with other healthy habits, this tool can help the body maintain a healthier
rhythm through the darker months.”
Embracing wholeness in every season
Additionally, professional counseling or therapy can provide space to process emotions, strengthen mental health and build practical tools for healing; another way to nurture balance in whole-person health.
“A spiritual relationship — whether through prayer, meditation or quiet reflection — can help bring peace and purpose to body, mind and spirit,” Oria said. “Faith and gratitude remind us that even in life’s darker seasons, light and hope can always be found.”
SAD is a reminder of how closely the body, mind and spirit are connected.
“The winter months can challenge energy and mood, but they can also remind us to slow down and care deeply for ourselves and others,” Oria said. “Whether it’s a walk in the sunshine, a moment of reflection or a conversation with someone who listens, each step toward balance can help you feel more whole.”
AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region
FAREWELL
Brown, Barbara Jean (Richards) “Jeannie”, b. May 12, 1941 in Denver, CO. d. Oct. 8, 2025 in Longmont, CO. Member of Boulder (CO) Church. Preceded in death by 1 brother; survivors include husband Russell; daughter Eva Barton; sons Randy and Bill; 1 sister; 4 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren.
Carrick, Ronald E., b. June 28, 1945 in Anthony, KS. d. June 19, 2025 in Grand Junction, CO. Member of Grand Junction Church. Preceded in death by son Timothy Dunning; 1 sister; 1 niece. Survivors include wife Victoria (Blisserd) Gnose Carrick; children Thomas, Todd, Shannon Foucher, Jason Foucher, David Bagachoff, Kim Pike, Kristy Hardy, and Brock Gnose; 1 granddaughter; 1 great-granddaughter.
Hines, Charles, b. June 10, 1934 in SD. d. Sept. 27, 2025 in Pierre, SD. Member of Rapid City (SD) Church. Preceded in death by former wife Mary Klingbiel Hines. Survivors include wife Arlene Blumhardt Hines; 6 children; 13 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren.
Krog, Dorthy Jean (Krueger), b. Aug. 29, 1936 in Wessington Springs, SD. d. Nov. 22, 2024 in Farmington, NM. Member of Aberdeen (SD) Church. Preceded in death by son Gerald; 7 sisters; 4 brothers. Survivors include daughter Barbara Archuleta; son Roger; 4 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren.
Leavelle, Sandra L., b. Jan. 7, 1941 in Portland, OR. d. Oct. 11, 2025 in Rochester, MN. Member of Rochester Church. Preceded in death by 2 brothers. Survivors include husband Dennis; daughters
Becky and Brenda; son Brad; 4 grandchildren.
Marshall, Margaret O., b. Aug. 24, 1930 in Littlefield, TX. d. Dec. 3, 2025 in Delta, CO. Member of Delta Church. Preceded in death by husband Walter; 2 daughters; 1 sister. Survivors include sons Chris and Craig; 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren. Served as a missionary in Ghana, Africa.
Messer, Sharon Marie (Davis), b. Nov. 23, 1953 in Medford, OR. d. Oct. 30, 2025, in Bismarck, ND. Member of Richardton (ND) Church. Preceded in death by 1 sister; 2 brothers. Survivors include husband Gary; daughters Marcy Kuntz, Heidi Strain, Genie Messer, and Charlotte Merkel; sons Jamen Wolf and Tony Wolf; 1 sister; 13 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.
Parrott, Nancy L. (Jordan), b. Dec. 27, 1938 in Chicago, IL. d. Nov. 26, 2025 in Parker, CO. Member of Denver South (CO) Church. Preceded in death by 2 brothers. Survivors include husband Warren; daughters Karen Carpenter, Sharon Albertsen and Kari; sons Gary and Terry; 1 sister; 1 brother; 4 grandchildren.
Poor Thunder, Hermus James, b. Feb. 10, 1958 in Pine Ridge, SD. d. Nov. 1, 2025 in Red Shirt, SD. Member of Hermosa (SD) Church. Preceded in death by daughter Sunset Yellow Bird; 12 siblings. Survivors include wife Lavena; 9 daughters; 4 sons; 3 sisters; 5 brothers; 24 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild.
Scofield, Merle “Maxine” (Foster), b. Jan. 4, 1925 in
Honoring the Life and Service of Gerard “Gerry” Ban
The Mid-America Union Conference education team is saddened to share news of the passing of Gerard “Gerry” Ban, former associate director of education for the Mid-America Union Conference. Gerry passed away on December 13, 2025, in Harrison, Tennessee.
Gerry served as associate director of education for the Mid-America Union Conference from 2016 to 2023, working closely with the union education team in support of Adventist schools across the territory. He retired on December 31, 2023, concluding nearly 35 years of service in Adventist education.
During his time at MAUC, Gerry supported principals, superintendents, teachers and schools, drawing on his expertise and experience in curriculum, instruction and administration. His service reflected a consistent commitment to Adventist education and to the educators he worked with throughout his career. Gerry was widely respected for his strong leadership, team-building abilities, organizational skill and commitment to helping principals and superintendents create safe, nurturing and spiritually grounded learning environments for teachers and students alike. Read more at outlookmag.org/ honoring-gerry-ban
Devils Lake, ND. d. Oct. 7, 2025 in Lincoln, NE. Member of Piedmont Park (NE) Church. Preceded in death by husband Paul; daughters Paula Follett and Kathy Mae Scofield; 1 brother; 1 half-brother; 1 grandson; 1 great-great-grandson. Survivors include daughter Judy Finnell; son David; 2 half-sisters; 8 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter.
Towne, Carl Edmund, b. Sept. 5, 1932 in Clinton, MA. d. Oct. 14, 2025 in Austin,
CO. Member of Delta (CO) Church. Preceded in death by wife Joan (Clemons); son Duane. Survivors include daughter Denise “Suzie”; 1 granddaughter; 2 great-grandsons. Served in the US Army.
Thomas, Jo Agnes, b. Mar. 28, 1943 in Butler, MO. d. Oct. 7, 2025 in Overland Park, KS. Member of Butler Living Word Company. Preceded in death by 1 sister; 1 brother. Survivors include son Philip; 3 sisters; 1 brother; 3 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter.
Please email Barb Engquist at Barb.Engquist@maucsda.org. Or go to outlookmag.org/contact
SERVICES
Apex Moving & Storage:
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 at www. apexmoving.com/Adventist
FREE SHARING CARDS
LifeTalk Radio has beautiful FREE sharing cards for all occasions with encouraging messages like “God Loves You” and “You Matter to God” plus Scripture cards. Share hope and faith with others. Order free cards at: Life-Talk.net/sharing-cards
Summit Ridge Retirement Village: An Adventist com-
February 2026
munity in a rural setting that offers affordable homes or apartments and caring neighbors with a fellowship you’ll enjoy. On-site church-planned activities and transportation as needed. Also, Wolfe Living Center offering independent living and nursing home. Website: www.summitridgevillage.org or call Bill Norman at 405.208.1289.
FOR SALE
Authors, transform your manuscript into a globally distributed book. Get FREE evaluation from trusted SDA publisher (42 years). If accepted, we edit, design, layout, market & distribute world-wide. Submit today: www.teachservices.com Look for red “Submit Manuscript” button top of homepage. We buy/sell used SDA
books www.LNFbooks.com 706-504-9192.
La Vonne Earl’s “Heal Unhealthy Love Patterns,” has the power to reshape the very fabric of our thinking, self-talk, and behavior. The book challenges the misconception that our thought and relational/behavior patterns are rigidly set in stone, drawing inspiration not only from timeless wisdom found in the Bible, but also aligning itself with the recent scientific consensus that highlights the remarkable plasticity of our minds. Check out her healing books here: LaVonneEarl.com
EMPLOYMENT
The Iowa-Missouri Conference is seeking a Human Resources Coordinator to
join our team and provide Christ-centered, professional support to our churches, schools, and staff across Iowa and Missouri. Do you have a heart for service and a calling to support ministry through human re-sources leadership? If interested, please email your resume to mmorris@ imsda.org
La Vida Missions, Inc. is seeking Seventh-day Adventist applicants for the following positions: Director of Operations, Cafeteria Manager/Worker, Maintenance Supervisor, Maintenance/Mechanic, Elementary School Teacher. For more information and to apply online for these and other available positions, visit lavidamission.org or call 505.786.5539.
Southern Adventist University continuously seeks qualified candidates to fill positions around campus, including faculty, salaried staff, and hourly staff positions. We encourage you to view the positions that are currently open at sau.catsone.com/ careers and apply as God leads. To view current open educational positions Pre-K through college, please visit jobs.adventisteducation.org
Union Adventist University is searching for applicants for Special Events Director. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing a wide range of alumni and university promotion events to enhance stakeholder engagement, foster community spirit, and promote the university’s mission and values. This role involves collaborating with various departments, managing logistics, overseeing
event budgets, and ensuring successful delivery of events that meet the university’s standards. Please apply at uau.edu/employment.
Union Adventist University has an opening for a Nursing Program faculty to prepare undergraduate students to successfully complete the Nursing Program Bachelor of Science (BSN) curriculum and pass the National Council State Boards of Nursing Examination (NCLEX-RN). Union College Nursing faculty have a philosophy of partnering with students to help them reach their goals while caring for students holistically. Doctoral degree preferred; Master’s degree in nursing required. Please apply at uau.edu/employment.
Union Adventist University is searching for candidates for two new positions for a grant-funded TRIO Student
Support Services Program: Director and Life Coach. The Director will lead and administer the program and oversee services, grant compliance, and student success for low-income, first-generation, and disabled students. The Life Coach will utilize coaching best practices to mentor and provide specialized services as needed. See job description and apply at uau.edu/employment
Union Adventist University seeks a Plant Service General Maintenance employee to be responsible for performing a variety of maintenance tasks to ensure the safety, functionality, and aesthetic quality of university facilities. This position involves routine inspections, repairs and preventive maintenance across campus buildings and grounds. Please see full job description and apply and uau.edu/employment
Union Adventist University seeks a Controller to direct and coordinate Union Adventist University accounting operations to include disbursements, accounting data, accounting records, payroll, general accounting services, and accounting operations system and to develop and administer accounting business policies and regulations. Please see full job description and apply and uau.edu/employment
EVENTS:
Wings of Life – Follow the journey of frontline missions in Central America as we plant churches, conduct health outreaches and more. Read exciting stories, pray for the work, and consider volunteering on a short-term trip. Follow, Engage and Partner with us in our mission of saving lives. Visit www. wingsoflife.net
It Is Written’s SALT program is coming to Union starting Fall 2026. Gain confidence in sharing your faith with hands-on evangelism training by experienced instructors. Learn more about this four-month certification program at uau.edu/salt
