Nov25

Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges

LAYING

A Missional Transition

It is my privilege to welcome Allan Machado, D.Min., to the administrative team of the Southern Union Conference as our new executive secretary. He succeeds Jim Davidson, who faithfully served in this role for 14 years, and devoted 47 ½ years of service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church before his retirement. Davidson, a second-generation Seventh-day Adventist minister, graduated with degrees in theology and business administration from Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University), and earned a master of divinity degree from Andrews University. His ministry began in the Pennsylvania Conference, followed by pastoral leadership in the Florida and Kentucky-Tennessee conferences. While serving the Madison Campus Church in Tennessee, he was called to the Carolina Conference Office, where he served as ministerial secretary and later executive secretary. In January 2005, the Carolina Conference Executive Committee elected him as president, and in September 2011, the Southern Union Constituency called him to serve as executive secretary.

I personally owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Jim for his faithful leadership, and to his lovely wife, Bonnie, for her service alongside him for the past 14 years. He and Bonnie led the Medical/Dental ministry and were instrumental in attracting professionals to establish their practices in the Southern Union. Their ministry has left an indelible mark on the framework of the Southern Union, and their legacy of commitment will long be remembered.

Introducing Allan Machado, D.Min.

We are equally blessed to continue this tradition of strong leadership through the appointment of Allan Machado, D.Min. Most recently, he served as president for the Florida Conference, and over the years has faithfully served in many capacities, including executive secretary, assistant to the president for strategic planning and senior management for communication, vice president for pastoral ministries, volunteer lay ministries coordinator, pastor, and youth ministries director.

Machado holds a doctor of ministry in pastoral ministry from Andrews University, and serves as an adjunct professor at the Theological Seminary in Berrien Springs, Michigan. He is also the author of two books: Created to Worship and Transformation: Biblical Spiritual Metamorphosis.

His deep experience, spiritual vision, and leadership gifts make him exceptionally well prepared for this new role. I am confident that the Lord has called him to this position of service, and that he is perfectly poised to advance the mission of the Church throughout the Southern Union.

A Word of Gratitude and Welcome

We extend heartfelt thanks to Jim Davidson for his lifetime of service, and we warmly welcome Allan Machado, his wife, Elsa, and their children. May God richly bless their ministry as they join us in serving the eight-state region of the Southern Union.

Volume 119, No. 11, November 2025

The Southern Tidings is the official house organ of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE

302 Research Drive

Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092

Mail Address P.O. Box 923868

Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30010-3868 Telephone 770-408-1800 www.southernunion.com

EDITOR Bryant Taylor, D.Min.

MANAGING EDITOR Irisene Douce

CIRCULATION Yaime Cordova

ADVERTISING Yaime Cordova

LAYOUT Nakeil Reid

SOCIAL MEDIA Christina Norris

PRODUCTION College Press

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

ADVENTHEALTH

Andrea Cardenas

ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY

Jennifer Audette

CAROLINA

Rebecca Carpenter

FLORIDA

Raquel Levy Gonzalez

GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND

Richard Ramont

GULF STATES

Daniel Claudet

KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE

Paola Mora Zepeda

OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY

Debbe Millet

SOUTH ATLANTIC

James Lamb, Ph.D.

SOUTH CENTRAL

Roger R. Wade

SOUTHEASTERN

Arnaldo Cruz

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

Rebecca Brooks

CONFERENCE/ INSTITUTION DIRECTORY

CAROLINA 704-596-3200

P.O. Box 44270, Charlotte, NC 28215

FLORIDA 407-644-5000

351 S. State Road 434, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714-3824

GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND 706-629-7951

P.O. Box 12000, Calhoun, GA 30703-7001

GULF STATES 334-272-7493

P.O. Box 240249, Montgomery, AL 36117

KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE 615-859-1391

P.O. Box 1088, Goodlettsville, TN 37070-1088

SOUTH ATLANTIC 404-792-0535

P.O. Box 1688, Decatur, GA 30031-1688

SOUTH CENTRAL 615-226-6500

P.O. Box 24936, Nashville, TN 37202

SOUTHEASTERN 352-735-3142

P.O. Box 1016, Mt. Dora, FL 32756-0056

ADVENTHEALTH 407-357-2083

900 Hope Way, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

ADVENTHEALTH UNIVERSITY 800-500-7747

671 Winyah Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY 256-726-7000

7000 Adventist Blvd., Huntsville, AL 35896

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

800-SOUTHERN

P.O. Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370

november

Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges

BY OLSON PERRY SR.

Oakwood University welcomes its first female president, Gina Spivey-Brown, Ph.D., M.S.A., R.N., FAAN, FNAP, whose mission blends tradition, innovation, and faith.

On a sunlit Friday morning, September 26, 2025, Oakwood University’s campus in Huntsville, Alabama, was alive with excitement. Students, faculty, alumni, and dignitaries from across the country gathered to witness history — the inauguration of Gina Spivey-Brown, Ph.D., the 12th president of Oakwood University. It was a

moment rich in tradition yet filled with the promise of fresh vision.

The ceremony began with the solemn procession of faculty and administrators, their academic robes flowing as Mendelssohn’s “War March of the Priests” rang out. Symbols of centuriesold academic heritage — the mace, the medallion, the chain of office — were carried forward, marking the sacred

transfer of authority. And, when Brown stood at the podium, she did more than accept regalia. She embraced a calling.

For the first time in Oakwood’s storied history, the University entrusted its leadership to a woman. Yet, in her characteristically humble way, Brown brushed aside the emphasis on “firsts.” “It was never about setting a bar,” she told the audience. “It was always about

asking God: ‘Are You sending me back to serve my alma mater with the skills You have given me?’”

A Reluctant Leader

Brown never set out to be a trailblazer. In fact, she often ran from opportunities to lead. Over the years, she was offered presidencies at hospitals and universities, but each time she balked. “I was like the runaway bride,” she laughs. “I would get right to the altar and then — no. I just couldn’t do it.”

Her turning point came at Howard University, where she served as a dean. Howard, she recalls, was both a challenge and a gift: “It had all the complexities of an HBCU — funding struggles, structural issues, community demands — but it was also a place of progress. We doubled enrollment. We launched new programs. It was rewarding.”

Then came the nudge she could not ignore. “One day, I was celebrating what God had allowed us to accomplish,” she remembers. “And the Lord said, ‘Don’t get too comfortable. You must go back and work for the Church one day.’”

The thought made her groan. She had already spent 15 years in Adventist high-

er education. She had moved on, thriving in new roles at Washington Adventist University and later at Loma Linda. But God’s whisper grew louder. Trusted colleagues and friends began encouraging her to step forward. When Oakwood’s presidency opened, she considered withdrawing her name from the final list of candidates. A close friend stopped her, saying, “Pray. Stay in the race. It’s not about you.”

“And once the process was over,” she reflects, “God gave me peace. I clearly understand now the assignment.”

A Vision for Oakwood

That assignment, as she describes it, is to preserve Oakwood’s spiritual foundation while raising its academic reputation to new heights. “I want Oakwood to be known for excellence in education,” she says. “Not just higher GPAs, but higher national rankings, more Fulbright Scholars, White House interns, and international programs. I want our students to succeed in the classroom, in the workplace, and in life. And, I want them to do it unapologetically as who they are.”

Her goals are ambitious — expand

graduate programs, prune academic offerings that no longer serve students well, strengthen baccalaureate completion — but her vision goes deeper than numbers. “Our mission is not only to produce scholars,” she explains. “It is to prepare students who are spiritually strong, emotionally healthy, and ethically grounded. Education, excellence, and eternity — those must go hand in hand.”

First Things First

Brown is candid about her immediate priorities. “Clean up,” she says simply. “I inherited a beautiful house, but it has some cracks in the foundation. There are broken windows, shaky posts. The house needs repair.”

Her first year has already been filled with listening sessions — conversations with faculty, students, staff, and alumni. “You don’t change a campus from the top down,” she insists. “You change it by listening and serving.” That means reviewing programs, supporting faculty needs, and strengthening staff morale. It also means a renewed emphasis on spiritual life. “We must be a praying campus,” she adds. “Everything begins with God’s grace.”

Standing with Students

Perhaps nothing energizes Brown more than engaging with students. She has begun meeting regularly with the United Student Movement leadership, and is forming a President’s Ambassadors group to provide direct input. But her style of leadership is also informal and highly visible. She pops into classrooms, lingers in the cafeteria, and shows up unannounced at Friday night worships.

“She’s everywhere,” one student remarked after inauguration week. “You don’t have to schedule an appointment to see her — she comes to you.”

That accessibility is intentional. “Students are at the center of everything we do,” says Brown. “If their voices are not shaping decisions, then we are missing the mark.”

Diversity, Equity, and the Next Generation

As the leader of a historically Black University, Brown is passionate about continuing Oakwood’s legacy of educational empowerment. But, she also recognizes a pressing need. “There is an attack on young Black men,” she says. “Our women are succeeding, but our

men are struggling. My underrepresented group will be our young Black men. We cannot afford to lose them.”

Her vision is restorative, not punitive. “When a student arrives underprepared — maybe reading at a middle-school level — our job is not to send them home. Our job is to lift them up, to get them to college level. That is the mission of an HBCU: to bring out potential that others might overlook.”

The Financial Challenge

No university president can avoid the reality of finances, and Brown is frank about Oakwood’s needs. “Money to fix things. Money for scholarships. Money for faculty support. Money for endowment. Money to make education affordable, especially for international students. That’s the challenge.”

But challenges bring opportunities. She sees alumni and community partnerships as vital to Oakwood’s future. “We must build bridges and keep everyone engaged — students, parents, board members, alumni, investors. If everybody feels like family, there are no ‘stepchildren.’ The only steps in the house,” she quips, “should be the ones you walk up and down.”

Faith at the Core

At the heart of Brown’s presidency is faith. “This is God’s school,” she reminds her colleagues. “It is not mine. I am only the caretaker. It will take all of us, working together, to uphold the mission.”

Balancing tradition with innovation is not always easy in a faith-based setting, but she insists that open communication can prevent divisions. “We must build bridges instead of walls. We may not always agree, but if we keep talking and keep praying, we will move forward together.”

Looking Ahead

When asked what she hopes to say 10 years from now, Brown does not hesitate: “That Oakwood remained a godly campus. That we kept Christ at the center. That we grew, excelled, and reached higher than ever before — but always on a foundation of faith.”

She dreams of the highest enrollment in Oakwood’s history, the strongest graduate programs, and national recognition for excellence. But more than statistics, she wants Oakwood to be a place where students encounter God and leave transformed.

The Woman Behind the Title Who, then, is Gina Spivey-Brown beyond the office of president? She is many things — nurse, educator, administrator, Church leader, even a welder, marathon runner, skydiver, world traveler, and scuba diver. But those who know her best will tell you she is

first and foremost a mother, sister, and grandmother. Fiercely protective of her family, she delights most in her grandson, Anderson, whom she calls her “greatest joy.”

That balance of professional drive and personal devotion reflects the essence of her leadership. She is a woman of vision,

yes — but also a woman of warmth, humor, and faith.

As Oakwood University steps into this new chapter under her guidance, the community celebrates more than an inauguration. It celebrates a calling fulfilled, a mission renewed, and a leader determined to keep Oakwood a godly campus where excellence and eternity walk hand in hand.

Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., president for the Southern Union Conference, shares: “Dr. Gina Brown is an effective communicator and visionary in the context of higher education. Her active listening skills are superlative. Her ability as a visionary motivator has inspired thousands of students in different academic contexts. I am excited by her recent election as the 12th president of Oakwood University.”

Olson Perry Sr. is Oakwood University’s assistant professor of communication, print/digital media coordinator, and Oakwood Magazine interim editor.

Laying the Groundwork for Evangelism

BY RACHEL BEAVER

The Georgia-Cumberland Conference has big plans for Evangelism in 2026 — particularly around the greater Atlanta, Georgia, area. The Atlanta North Church hosted one of the Conference’s evangelism rallies on September 13, 2025. International evangelist Mark Finley served as the main presenter for the rally. The purpose of the rallies are to inspire and train church leaders, elders, pastors, and especially lay members to come together to reach their communities.

Atlanta North Church served as a central location where many of the Atlanta area churches could come and represent their congregations. Mark Finley and his wife, Teenie, had previously worked with a group of younger GeorgiaCumberland pastors, so when it came time to find someone to help kick off the year-long plan for Atlanta, Conference administration knew that the Finleys would be a great fit.

Peter Kulakov, Georgia-Cumberland evangelism coordinator, worked with Finley for many years prior to working for Georgia-Cumberland. Kulakov

has been instrumental in not only the Atlanta rally, but all of the local rallies throughout 2025. Kulakov shares that the rallies are primarily designed for lay member involvement.

“If we don’t have lay member involvement in evangelism, our pastors will have no support and infrastructure in their churches,” said Kulakov. “Pastors can be busy, so when lay members are trained and equipped, they can be that support that pastors need in planning those events and projects.”

Kulakov also shares plans for making Atlanta a point of focus for evangelism in 2026, but to make those efforts a success, the groundwork needs to be laid now.

“It’s not just one event next year, it’s like an expectant mother who needs nine months to deliver a baby. We believe we need a whole year to prepare for those new babies in Jesus. That’s why we plan lots of training events in various parts of the Atlanta metro area.”

The Atlanta North rally served as a launching point for the 2026 plans, and the attendance was beyond expectation.

The church sanctuary and breakout rooms stayed full throughout the day. The rally also featured breakout presentations from the Georgia-Cumberland Reach Your Neighbor team of evangelism trainers.

This rally was one of several that the Conference has hosted throughout the year, and has since held two more in Savannah, Georgia, and Kingsport, Georgia. Apart from the rallies, the Conference also periodically hosts evangelism booster events for pastors. These events are just pieces of a greater picture on the Conference’s focus and belief in the importance of evangelism.

“Evangelism doesn’t just happen without an intentional plan,” said Gary Rustad, Georgia-Cumberland president. “These evangelism rallies are an integral part of who we are as a Conference. Every member sharing Jesus is how the Work will be finished soon.”

When it comes to reaching a community, it takes a church whose ministries share that common goal to make it happen. A church may have many ministries, but all exist for one purpose: “To preach hope, that Jesus Christ is coming soon,” said Kulakov. “Evangelism is the heart of Christianity. We are not here to make [churches] a great place for us; we are here to preach the Gospel. We are not inward looking, we are outward looking.”

Kulakov also expressed the importance of prayer – prayer for our churches, for evangelism, and for the world around us.

Beaver is the assistant director of marketing and communication for the Georgia-Cumberland Conference.

Pewee Valley Church Celebrates 100 Years of Faith, Mission

BY PAOLA MORA ZEPEDA

The Pewee Valley, Kentucky, Church, celebrated its 100th anniversary on September 19-20, 2025, remembering a century of service, outreach, and growth with a weekend-long program attended by members, former members, and friends from across the region.

The celebration included a meet-andgreet of past and present members, shared testimonies, church history presentations, and video messages from former pastors. It concluded with a dedicatory prayer for the Pewee Valley Church and its mission in the community.

A Rich History

In 1919, a small treatment room was opened in Louisville, Kentucky, by a group of nurses who had been trained at Madison College. As the work grew, a 50-acre farm in Pewee Valley was purchased and renovated into a sanitarium with patient rooms, treatment rooms, and an operating room.

C. W. Curtis organized the Pewee Valley Church on July 4, 1925, named after the local post office. Two years later, members established a school, adding one grade each year until the first class graduated in 1939. The school later became Pewee Valley Academy after moving to a new building. Across the street, Friendship Manor Nursing Home opened in 1969.

Financial struggles closed the Pewee Valley Hospital in 1975, but members pressed forward, breaking ground for the current church building in 1977.

The sanctuary was dedicated on March 25, 1981, and its debt was paid off in January 1987.

A Missionary History

Pewee Valley members have always had a heart for mission. In 1957, they planted the St. Matthews Church (now Middletown Church). In 1993, Pewee Valley Church, with the support of Middletown Church, planted the Shelbyville Church, and in 2014 they sponsored the formation of the La Grange Company.

Jean Sheppard became a member in 1998. She moved to La Grange in 2014 to help with the church plant, but says Pewee Valley was formative for her family.

“Peewee Valley has provided a ground for us to grow in Christ,” said Sheppard. “My children were baptized there, and the experiences we had prepared us not just to grow personally but to serve. It

gave us the foundation and confidence to help plant new churches and to start Bible studies that lasted for years.”

A Continuing History

Members say the centennial celebration was a time to thank God for His blessing and to be reminded of His call.

“It’s very exciting to me to see the history and what the church has done to be an influence on the community,” said Bonnie Riebel, who has been a member at Pewee Valley for more than four decades.

“Having seen the church through its ups and downs over the years, it’s inspiring to know that God has been faithful and that we’re still here, still serving, and still trying to reach people.”

Adventist Education Advancement is Salute to Summer

As autumn ushers in a new school year, it is worth pausing to reflect on the accomplishments of this past summer. While students enjoyed their welldeserved vacations, Adventist school leaders and administrators across the North American Division (NAD) were hard at work preparing new and updated resources to support both teachers and learners in the coming year.

In summer 2025, the North American Division Office of Education convened a series of committees at Escondido Adventist Academy in California. These groups collaborated to address diverse needs across the field: developing new instructional tools such as mathematics units designed for multigrade classrooms, revising and refining existing resources such as the Multigrade Lifeline Handbook, and carefully vetting potential new science materials. Each effort was guided by the shared goal of equipping teachers with high-quality, practical resources that elevate learning in Adventist schools.

While these committees met in California, another group gathered at the Southern Union Conference Office in Peachtree Corners, Ga., to bring to completion a long-anticipated project: the BRIDGE resource.

BRIDGE: Building Resources for Instructional Delivery of GREAT Education

The BRIDGE initiative, a K-2 English Language Arts (ELA) resource, was created to meet the unique needs of teachers in multigrade classrooms. Traditionally, educators faced the daunting task of juggling three separate curricula: kindergarten Stepping Stones, first grade Pathways, and second grade Pathways to meet the literacy needs of students in the same classroom. BRIDGE offers a unified, dif-

ferentiated resource, allowing teachers to focus on a single, standards-based plan for all students in K-2 multigrade settings. This project began years ago under the vision of leaders such as Debra Fryson and Diane Ruff (Southern Union) and Mayra Rodriguez (Florida Conference), who recognized the urgent need for a more streamlined approach. Fryson, Ruff, and Rodriguez guided the initial phase of BRIDGE before their retirement. Subsequent phases were completed under the leadership of Rose J. Thomas, Ph.D., who, along with a dedicated team of educators — Tara Bailey, Natalie Griffin-Burton, and Debra Schonert — brought the project to its full realization. Thomas reflects on this work as both a privilege and a continuation of the vision cast by her predecessors.

A Legacy for the Present and Future

The K-2 BRIDGE resource exemplifies the strength of collaboration across the Adventist education system. It not only provides a seamless, time-efficient approach to literacy instruction, but also ensures equity of access: resources are available free of charge to every K-2 teacher across the NAD.

Educators interested in accessing

BRIDGE may visit the following:

• Southern Union Office of Education, https://www.adventistedge.com/elementary/curriculum-instruction/

• North American Division Office of Education, https://curriculum.adventisteducation.org/orders.html

Through projects like these, Adventist education continues to honor its legacy while meeting the evolving needs of teachers and students today.

BY ROSE J. THOMAS, SOUTHERN UNION ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Leadership Highlighted at First NAD Master Guide Camporee

The first North American Division (NAD) Master Guide Camporee, held from August 6-9, 2025, brought together more than 2,000 participants under the theme “Called to Serve.” At Summit Bechel Reserve in West Virginia, attendees were able to worship together, earn honors, and learn new leadership skills to get ready for their responsibilities during the upcoming Pathfinder year.

This call to action and message of leadership was amplified by AdventHealth as they were invited to host several sessions on the importance of servant leadership. “Achieving the Master Guide level of ministry is the highest level in Club Ministries in our Church, thus we are constantly looking for ways to challenge and grow our leaders. AdventHealth was a natural choice for us to partner with,” said Armando Miranda, associate director for youth and young adult ministries at the NAD.

The 11 classes, with more than 80 attendees in each, created a dynamic atmosphere for learning and sharing

perspectives. They also provided discussion opportunities and practical applications for attendees and their Pathfinder clubs.

Hearly Mayr, stakeholder communications director for AdventHealth, led the first two days of sessions with the following topics:

• Lead Self and Lead Others

• Servant Leadership in Action

• Building Leaders Not Just Followers

• Mentorship That Matters

• Leading with Integrity: Walking the Talk

• Recognizing and Transforming Dysfunctional Teams

“We aimed to help leaders not only lead themselves with clarity and purpose, but also inspire young people to lead and serve with confidence,” said Mayr. “The focus was on building healthy, mission-driven teams, and empowering leaders to make a lasting difference in their communities.”

Nathan Gonzalez, senior manager for executive coaching at the Leadership Institute at AdventHealth, joined Mayr in leading attendees through the sessions.

Gonzalez highlighted the importance of both emotional and conversational intelligence for leaders.

“I was amazed by how quickly participants wanted to take the tools and put them into application,” said Gonzalez. “We engaged in meaningful dialogue right away on how they could use these topics to effectively serve and lead younger generations.”

AdventHealth’s continuous participation in events like the Master Guide Camporee showcases their commitment to supporting groups who positively impact others. Mayr echoed this commitment by saying, “This kind of outreach also reflects the heart of our mission — to bring healing and hope through learning, collaboration, and service, while promoting wholeperson care wherever we go.”

BY ANDREA CARDENAS, STAKEHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST AT ADVENTHEALTH

Safari Church Celebrates Organization With a Mission-Focused Vision

Safari Church in Charlotte, N.C., recently celebrated a significant milestone in its spiritual journey with an official organization service on June 28, 2025. What began more than a decade ago as a small Sabbath School class has grown into a vibrant, missiondriven congregation with a strong sense of identity and purpose. The celebration reflected the church’s growth and its commitment to evangelism, community outreach, and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

Safari Church’s story began in 2009, as a Swahili-speaking Sabbath School class at University City Church. The goal was to help members share their experiences and better understand the Sabbath lesson in their heart language. As the group expanded, members recognized the need for a structured fellowship that could reach others in the Swahili-speaking community, and help their children grow with a strong understanding of their cultural and spiritual roots.

In 2015, the group was officially recognized by the Carolina Conference. The first Sabbath was held in the home of Elder Ezekiel, with about 40 members attending. The church later worshipped at Moorehead STEM Academy before relocating to its current venue in 2018.

Since its formation, the congregation has experienced steady spiritual growth, with five baptisms and 10 professions of faith. An additional four members are preparing for baptism in the coming weeks. The church averages about 40 in weekly attendance, with more than 100 attending on special Sabbaths.

The June 28 organization service was a joyful occasion as members and guests gave thanks for God’s faithfulness. The program honored those who helped shape the church’s journey, and invited renewed commitment to its mission. Enock Omosa, Safari Church pastor, who has faithfully led the congregation, reminded attendees that this moment is not the end of the journey but a new beginning. “May we remain steadfast and be counted worthy at the second coming of our Lord,” he said. One church elder reflected on the moment by saying, “We’ve come this far by faith. Now we go forward, together, with God leading the way.”

Safari Church’s mission reflects the worldwide calling of the Seventh-day Adventist Church: to make disciples of Jesus Christ, proclaim the everlasting Gospel, and prepare people for the second coming. The church draws its inspiration from the three angels’ messages of

Revelation 14:6-12, and places a strong emphasis on evangelism, education, community service, and health outreach. The church has conducted revival meetings; distributed food and clothing to individuals experiencing homelessness; and participated in city events, offering health education and prayer. Its youth are active in local sports leagues and community activities.

Safari Church has also invested in ministry departments that nurture members of all ages. The Pathfinder and Adventurer clubs organize camping trips, bike rides, and service projects. The children have participated in outreach events and supported food distribution efforts. The men, women, and youth departments regularly lead worship services and host visiting choirs. The church is home to the children’s, youth, men’s, and women’s choirs, as well as the general church choir, enriching the worship services, and offering opportunities for musical growth.

Looking to the future, Safari Church members have set a bold vision to acquire its own facility within the next seven years. A building committee and a church-wide fundraising initiative are already underway. The Safari Champions group, consisting of 29 committed mem-

bers who contribute monthly according to their ability, plays a vital role in supporting the church’s financial goals. Members believe that having a dedicated facility will allow them to expand their ministries and deepen their impact in the Charlotte community.

With a heart for global mission, Safari Church is also preparing to train and

send young people into outreach opportunities throughout the Americas, Africa, and beyond. The pastoral team continues to visit members for prayer and spiritual support, ensuring that every individual feels valued and connected. The church has also set a goal to baptize at least 10 people annually as it continues to grow.

Safari Church stands as a testimony

to what God can do through faith, unity, and perseverance. From humble beginnings to a fully organized congregation, the journey continues with hope and purpose, rooted in Christ’s commission to go and make disciples of all nations.

BY ENOCK OMOSA

Charleston Church Hosts VBS, Mental Health Seminar

The Charleston, S.C., Church was energized with mission-focused activity, June 16-21, 2025, as children and adults participated in two parallel programs designed to strengthen faith and support mental well-being.

More than 50 children, ages 3-14, attended “Rescued: Safe in Jesus,” a Vacation Bible School (VBS) experience centered on the story of Noah’s Ark. Each evening began in the sanctuary, where children received name tags and were welcomed with lively skits, colorful videos, and joyful singing. They learned that Jesus is their Rescuer — yesterday, today, and forever.

Each day introduced a specific spiritual theme and memory verse. The children explored the concepts that God calls (1 Corinthians 1:9), God leads (Romans 8:14), God saves (Acts 2:21), and God provides (Philippians 4:19). The children led a special wor-

ship service on Sabbath, June 21, reviewing each of the themes, sharing songs they had learned, and offering heartfelt prayers.

After worship each evening, participants rotated through activity stations featuring games, crafts, science experiments, and healthy snacks. Each night concluded with a group prayer in the sanctuary. “Every night we reminded the

children that just as Noah and his family were rescued, Jesus is our Rescuer today,” said one VBS leader.

Running concurrently with VBS, Charleston Church School hosted “Mindfit,” a free mental health seminar led by Alex Rodriguez. Adults gathered nightly for presentations and group discussions on topics such as anxiety, depression, and emotional resilience. Attendees also received resources and strategies for continued support beyond the event.

Both programs reflected Charleston Church members’ commitment to whole-person ministry — nurturing spiritual growth and mental wellness, and offering hope and healing to the community through Christ-centered engagement.

BY MELISSA JOINER

Lake City Members Blend Prayer, Service, Social Media for Evangelism

Lake City, Fla.,Church recently partnered with Florida Conference youth and young adult ministries and Adventist Connect to reach their community in a unique way that combines social media outreach, prayer, and service.

A team of young adults from Adventist Connect, a ministry of the North American Division, produced several short video clips that were promoted via the church’s Facebook page, reaching thousands within a 10-mile radius. Over the course of a one-month campaign, viewers were invited to message the church directly for prayer.

The goal was to build meaningful online connections and maintain contact through regular messages. Adventist Connect screened thousands of responses, trained 39 local digital missionaries, and referred leads for further follow-up. Lake City’s team of digital missionaries — church members eager to serve — continued the conversations, many of which developed into strong bonds. Today, the

church is actively working with more than 100 individuals who have expressed genuine spiritual interest.

While many prayer requests were for family, health, or jobs, a few were for basic essentials like food and clean water. The women’s ministries team fulfilled the needs, and delivered food and other necessities.

Church leadership also discovered that young families with babies make up the largest demographic around their church, so they advertised a diaper giveaway event on August 16, 2025. Partnering with Juan Rodriguez, director of Florida Conference youth and young adult ministries, they distributed more than 6,000 diapers.

In spite of stormy weather, 22 families attended the event, where Rodriguez shared a brief devotional. During his appeal, four individuals requested Bible studies, and two expressed their desire for baptism. One mother confided that she felt lonely and overwhelmed, prompting the members to surround her with support. Another woman revealed her family

was facing food insecurity, and the church quickly delivered groceries to her home. “These people had no prior connection to our church,” said Rodriguez.

One young mother shared that she was about to spend her last $20 on diapers for her three children when God led her to the diaper giveaway. “God is amazing, He is amazing in so many ways,” she said. “I am so grateful for this church.”

This outreach is just the beginning. Lake City Church members have already created more online ads and are continuing to connect with their community online. These digital missionaries can stay in touch with three to five interests each, while keeping their personal information private. It’s a simple way for almost anyone in the church to get involved in ministry. The Lake City church family continues to pray that God will bless these efforts and lead many to a lasting relationship with Him.

BY BRENDAN WHITE

Florida Conference Organize First Official Slavic Mission Group

History was made on September 6, 2025, as Three Angels Slavic became the first Slavic mission group organized within Florida Conference. Hosted by its mother church, Port Charlotte, Fla., Church, the milestone moment was marked by the presentation of a certificate of recognition from Walter Castro, Florida Conference ministerial associate for church planting and volunteer lay pastors.

The congregation chose its name to reflect the group’s mission to share the everlasting Gospel with Slavic neighbors, including Ukrainians, Russians, and Moldovans. Many of the congregation’s

more than 70 members have relocated to Port Charlotte due to the war in Ukraine.

For Viktor Poperechnyy, the journey of Three Angels Slavic began with his family’s move to Florida. He recalls overhearing his mother tell a realtor they needed to find a home with a big living room and dining room, explaining that she wanted space to host Friday evening services. In February 2021, the group held its first Friday night Vespers at her home.

The group began meeting on Sabbath mornings in the Port Charlotte Church’s library, but their membership grew steadily. “We soon met one other Slavic

family, and then another, and then another,” said Poperechnyy. “Before long, we outgrew the library and moved to a larger room, and not long after, we outgrew that space, too!” They now meet in the church’s grand hall, allowing them more room to expand.

With so much growth came the need for leadership, guidance, and organization. Shortly after making this a matter of prayer, Alexey Novosolev arrived from Russia. With vast experience in both pastoring and teaching, Novosolev became the group’s Bible worker and Slavic leader, and has guided them in spiritual growth and practical outreach. Under his leadership, the group has hosted seminars for newly arrived immigrants on topics such as legal assistance, tax preparation, and marriage enrichment.

Poperechnyy and other members are grateful for how the Lord has led their congregation, even expressing that God has gone above and beyond their prayer requests. He adds, “We feel blessed to be the very first recognized Slavic group in Florida Conference, and can’t wait to see how the Lord will continue to grow us.”

BY LAURA DANCEK

Georgia-Cumberland Conference Holds Commissioning Service for Nicole Harvey

It was a day of celebration on Sabbath, August 9, 2025, at Atlanta Belvedere Church in Decatur, Ga., to mark the commissioning of Nicole Harvey, the congregation’s associate pastor. Members, guests, family, and officers from the Georgia-Cumberland Conference gathered for powerful worship, heartfelt prayers, and a chance to honor God’s unmistakable faithfulness in the life of His servant.

Harvey’s journey of resilience and calling began on the island of Jamaica, where she was raised as the youngest of six children by her mother, a faithful

Seventh-day Adventist. A testimony of God’s redeeming power to overcome poverty, neglect, and abuse, Harvey has dedicated her ministry to bringing healing to the broken, giving voice to the voiceless, and offering hope to those who feel forgotten.

During the commissioning service, Georgia-Cumberland Conference leaders laid hands on her as prayers rose throughout the sanctuary. In her remarks, she expressed gratitude for the community that has long valued her ministry. She spoke with humility about her greatest role, as mother to Mekhi, Madison,

and Ari, whom she describes as priceless gifts from the Restorer.

Remember, when God calls, He also equips, and through Harvey, Atlanta Belvedere’s mission will continue to shine with hope and restoration.

BY LEISA GREEN-CARTER, PH.D.

Mobilize/Engage is Newly Combined Training for Youth, Young Adult Ministry Leaders

The youth and young adults ministries at the Georgia-Cumberland Conference combined forces in September 2025, to create a dual training event for church leaders. In years past, young adult ministries’ Mobilize event and youth ministry’s Engage event were separate trainings geared toward their respective demographics. This year, however, the two directors realized that they both serve similar purposes to church leaders who often work with both age groups. They decided that they could better serve church youth and young adult ministry leaders if they combined the events into one.

“Our greater mission is to prepare our young people to be active participants in the church.” said Jonathan Montes, youth ministries director. “So we want to train those who are leading our youth and young adults to be effective in projecting that message.”

“We’d love to see the Church get excited about youth and young adult ministries.” said Geoff Starr, young adult ministries director. “We really need to work together. It’s really family ministry

training — families working with all ages to prepare people for Jesus’ coming.”

The hope of the Mobilize/Engage event is to spark excitement in youth and young adult leaders, so that they’ll take that excitement back to their churches. The main theme for the main sessions was “Growing Young.” It’s the hope that this mindset will begin a shift in mindset and culture within churches.

“If one person comes to a training and they’re excited, and their church says, ‘no, we’re not doing any of that,’ it can be discouraging. We want the church to be on fire for it and go through the process of shifting and realizing that we can invest in our young people.”

“What we want them to take away is we want them to feel encouraged,” said Montes. “We want them to know they’re not alone, and we want them to be rejuvenated in their ministry for youth and young adults.

BY RACHEL BEAVER

Birmingham Hispanic District Launches Fourth Church Plant in Pelham

The Hispanic District of Birmingham, Ala., recently celebrated the launch of its fourth congregation since 2020, establishing a new church plant in Pelham, Ala.

The inauguration was the conclusion of the evangelistic series “The Revelations of Jesus Christ,” presented by Julio Chazarreta, pastor and Southern Union Hispanic Ministries director, and featured a concert by Christian singer Hugo Yin. Rammy Robles, district pastor, challenged the missionary team and future intern pastor, Marcelo Pérez, to focus on making disciples in every home rather than simply increasing church membership.

Leaders from the Gulf States Conference joined the celebration, including Gerson Sánchez, pastor and Gulf States Hispanic ministries coordinator; Josue

Murillo, pastor and vice president for ministerial; and Brian Danese, Gulf States president. Robles formally presented the Pelham mission group to Danese, who accepted the congregation on behalf of the Conference, issued an official certificate, and prayed for three district families who shared testimonies of God’s providence in their release from immigration custody.

The highlight of the event was a baptismal service, in which four youth, two children, and one adult who had

first connected with the Birmingham Church online, publicly committed their lives to Christ.

Looking ahead, the Birmingham Hispanic District plans to establish three additional congregations, including one dedicated to youth ministries, as they continue expanding the Gospel throughout Shelby County and beyond.

BY COMMUNICATION TEAM

Gulf States Hosts 2025 Prayer Summit at Camp Alamisco

With the theme “Entering the Secret Place,” drawn from Matthew 6:6, Gulf States Conference welcomed believers from across Alabama, Mississippi, and the Florida Panhandle to Camp Alamisco, August 1517, 2025, for its annual Prayer Summit.

The weekend retreat created an atmosphere of prayer, intercession, and renewal. “This Prayer Summit reminded us that prayer is not only an act, but a lifestyle of communion with our heavenly Father,” said Mary Nelson, Gulf States prayer ministries coordinator.

Guest speakers included Philip G. Samaan, D.Min., professor emeritus at Southern Adventist University, and Esteban Santana, pastor for Fort Walton Beach, Fla., Church. Their messages focused on the transforming power of prayer. Samaan emphasized Christ’s invitation to seek strength in secret prayer, while Santana encouraged participants to claim God’s promises with boldness and faith.

Following each presentation, attendees joined in small prayer groups scattered across the campground. The circles became sacred spaces of intercession — lifting bur-

dens, sharing testimonies, and inviting the Holy Spirit to move in tangible ways.

A highlight of the weekend was the launch of the Gulf States Conference “Scripture Prayer Book,” a collection of 26 Scripture-based prayers written and submitted by members from across the Conference. “This book is a beautiful testimony of our members’ faith and desire to stay grounded in God’s Word,” said Brian Danese, Gulf States president.

The summit concluded with a Sabbath worship service that blended music, testimonies, and the preached Word, leav-

ing participants with renewed commitment to daily prayer. One young adult reflected, “This weekend has changed how I see prayer. It’s not about saying the right words — it’s about being with God, every day, in the quiet.”

The 2025 Prayer Summit reminded all present that prayer is not confined to a retreat, but remains the continual heartbeat of God’s people, moving them forward in faith.

BY DIEGO COELLO

Rainsville Church “Bags of Hope” Draw Hundreds

For the Rainsville, Ala., Church, the close of summer looked different this year. A congregation that typically welcomes 50 to 60 people each Sabbath, saw more than 300 community members stream through its doors on a recent Sunday afternoon outreach campaign.

The Clothing Giveaway event was designed to provide free clothing, shoes, dresses, furniture, and other essentials to local families. “This event was a success,” said Barbara Fisher, church member and volunteer. “Clothes were piled up on all the tables, and the community came in and filled bag after bag.” Along with Fisher, another 35 volunteers helped with the organization and logistics of the event.

The giveaway began at 2 p.m., but the excitement started earlier. Half an hour before the doors opened, a long line stretched outside the church. Guests first checked in at a registration table before being admitted in groups of 30. Each group was given 10 minutes to fill a 13-gallon plastic bag with items of their choice. When time was up, the next group entered, and those who

wanted more could return to the line for another turn. A simple first-come, firstserved system kept the process organized and fair.

“We had our fellowship hall full of donations,” said Lorinda Mills, community service director and coordinator of the event. “But, near the exit, we also placed a ministry table where the elders shared free books about Jesus and offered Bible studies. We were expecting around 100 people, but God sent more than 300 — including children.”

For Agnes Lucas, pastor, the day marked more than just a successful turnout. “We collected over 100 contacts with names, phone numbers, and addresses,” he explained. “This allows us

to stay connected, invite them to future events, and show them how special they are to us.”

The church intentionally linked the giveaway with two other initiatives: its first-ever Vacation Bible School and a Family Week program titled “Strong Together.” The week featured guest speakers addressing family and community life, including the presence of the county sheriff, and a local bluegrass Christian band. “We want to keep offering services to our neighbors, and let them know they can count on us as a caring community,” said Lucas. “To our joy, some who came for the giveaway joined us for worship the very next Sabbath. This is just the beginning of a beautiful and meaningful connection, with the main goal of sharing the message of Jesus.”

With momentum building, Rainsville Church members are already planning next steps, eager to deepen connections with the community and its leaders.

BY AGNES LUCAS,

Adventurer Camporee Brings Fresh Energy with New Location

The Kentucky-Tennessee Conference Adventurer Camporee made a big move this year, shifting to a new location, new dates, and a renewed mission to inspire young campers. The event, which previously took place over two weekends each November at Indian Creek Camp, was held for the first time, September 12-14, 2025, at Highland Academy, and drew hundreds of excited children, parents, and club leaders.

Shelina Bonjour, Conference youth director for club ministries and summer camp, said the changes were designed to bring Adventurer clubs together in one unified weekend to strengthen community bonds, and offer a true camping experience.

“[At Indian Creek], attendees stayed in cabins. This year, we invited people to bring their tents or stay in RVs so the Adventurers could have a more authentic camping experience,” said Bonjour. “We were also excited because Highland Academy is a more central location for many people, and we now have room to keep expanding so all Adventurers can come on one weekend without splitting up.”

According to Bonjour, holding the event in September also helps families with both Adventurers and Pathfinders avoid back-to-back camping weekends, since the Pathfinder Camporee is in October.

“The weather is also quite lovely for camping during this time,” said Bonjour. “November can get quite cold, so this lets families enjoy the fall weather a bit more.”

Moving the event to September also served as the kickoff to the Adventurer year, with Adventurer Fun Day closing out the season in May.

This year’s theme focused on David the shepherd boy and the call to “shepherd people.” Clubs took part in a full range of activities, including crafts, obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, music, storytelling, and even the chance to pet sheep.

Evening programs featured a threepart skit that brought the theme to life, and participants joined together to sing the theme song “Be Brave.”

While meal packages were available for those who needed them, clubs were encouraged to prepare their own meals. This allowed attendees to fellowship around their campsites, and gave Adventurers the chance to make friends from other clubs.

The decision to move locations followed a transition in leadership, and a push to make the Adventurer program a stronger steppingstone to Pathfinders. Bonjour explained that the Conference wanted to teach camping skills in a “fun, low-risk way,” allowing younger participants to build confidence before advancing.

“My biggest hope was that everyone stayed safe, enjoyed good weather, and found time to rest and connect with Jesus, and I believe we saw that happen.” said Bonjour. “I think it’s so important that Adventurers get to come together in one place, see all their friends, and feel like they belong to something bigger.”

BY PAOLA MORA ZEPEDA

Highland Church Burns Mortgage Note After Paying Off $800K Remodeling Loan

Members of Highland Church in Portland, Tenn., gathered August 9, 2025, for a symbolic note burning ceremony, celebrating the payoff of a nearly $800,000 mortgage taken out to remodel the church’s sanctuary, kitchen, restrooms, and other facilities.

The event marked the end of a yearslong project that began in July of 2016, when church leaders discovered some building issues while considering an expansion. Instead of building new classrooms and fellowship hall, the congregation voted to repair and update the existing structure.

“We realized it would not be responsible to go into this [expansion] project with all of these issues still needing to be taken care of,” said Roger Schmidt, former senior pastor and now a member at Highland Church. “We needed to take care of the house we had before we built another one.”

Church members organized a construction committee. Rather than hire a general contractor, the congregation divided the responsibilities among themselves, managing scheduling, purchas-

ing, and oversight of construction. That decision alone saved the church about 25% of project costs.

In addition, volunteers contributed hundreds of hours of labor. The sanctuary was gutted and rebuilt with new pews, carpet, lighting, and a redesigned stage. The restrooms and kitchen were also overhauled, parking lots were repaired, and even drainage and structural issues were addressed. For months, worship services were moved to the nearby elementary school gym, while crews of volunteers worked through the summer. Construction was finally completed in September 2018.

Nick Bradley, a longtime member, said the project not only improved the church’s facilities, but also strengthened the congregation.

“Probably the biggest blessing was the way that everybody worked together,” said Bradley. “Everybody just came together and added what they could .… We had obstacles, but prayer and teamwork saw us through.”

At the start of the renovation, church leaders worried about finances. The budget was running on a deficit, and taking on an $800,000 loan seemed daunting.

“Our church budget was in the red,” said Bradley. “But as a matter of prayer and commitment, members restructured their finances in a way not only to get our budget in the black, but also to pay off three-quarters of a million dollars.”

According to Schmidt, the note burning ceremony served as a celebration and a reminder of what can be accomplished when a congregation remains faithful to God.

“Each generation needs to make a contribution and leave the ministries and facilities in better shape than they found them,” said Schmidt. “My biggest hope is that we utilize what we have here and use it to do evangelism, bring the community in, and just share God’s love and God’s grace.”

BY PAOLA MORA ZEPEDA

“System for Survival” Meetings Result in 206 Baptisms

Bethany Church, a 100-year-old congregation in Macon, Ga., hosted a historic 23-day community revival, August 2-23, 2025, entitled “System for Survival,” drawing hundreds of attendees and resulting in more than 200 baptisms.

The initiative was led by Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., Southern Union Conference president, who served as the nightly speaker, supported by a team of Bible workers. Among the Bible workers were Gregory Stinson, pastor of Bethany Church, and his wife, Carletta. The two not only opened the church for the program, but also participated in outreach efforts.

Organizers said the event combined preaching with practical support for the community. Attendees received food and gifts each evening, while volunteers provided transportation to ensure the attendees could attend the meeting. Each Sabbath the church members hosted din-

ners for guests, distributed clothing to those in need, and held weekly anointing services for individuals seeking prayer, healing, and renewal.

Smith’s nightly sermons emphasized

faith, family restoration, and personal commitment. Church leaders said many families responded by choosing baptism together, and other individuals stepped forward alone.

“The atmosphere of soul-winning was evident every night,” said Stinson. “Our community experienced transformation in ways we could not have imagined.”

Community guests also expressed appreciation for the hospitality and support they received. On the final Sabbath, members and visitors pledged funds for a new church van to transport the growing congregation to church events.

At the close of the initiative, church leaders reported 206 new baptisms, calling the revival one of the most impactful in Bethany’s history.

Bethany members said the event not only expanded the congregation, but also renewed their mission to nurture new believers and continue outreach in Macon.

BY OCTAVIA LINDSAY

Disaster Response Volunteers Prepare for Active 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service predicts with 70% confidence that there will be three to five major hurricanes (categories 3, 4, and 5, with winds of 111mph and higher) in 2025 (NOAA.org). Hearts and prayers go out to the many who are still recovering from the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.

During the months of March and June of 2025, disaster response volunteers throughout the Southeastern Conference took advantage of opportunities to increase their knowledge, improve skills, and expand their ability to respond to impending disasters by participating in a series of preparedness trainings hosted by both the Florida and Southeastern conferences.

Because of the need for more trained volunteers, this partnership was facilitated by the Adventist Community Services Disaster Response directors and accompanying team members of both conferences. As a special note, Wayne Hewlett, pastor and Southeastern associate director for disaster response, is commended for his insight and vision to create more opportunities for skill building and infrastructure expansion. He is also appreciated by both conferences for his extraordinary warehouse management leadership at the unprecedented dual-disaster state warehouse in 2024.

BY LESLI AHONKHAI, SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT

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CAROLINA

Young Adult Life Tour (YAL) – Oct. 24, 25. Raleigh, NC. Prayer Retreat – Oct. 24-26. NPR. Greensboro, NC, Church’s 90th Year Celebration – Oct. 25. Guest speaker, Jay Gallimore. Lunch included and an afternoon program. www.greensborosda.org

Low Country Campout – Oct. 31-Nov. 2. Camp Kinard.

Impact Youth Rally – Oct. 31-Nov. 2. MPA.

Youth Bible Retreat – Nov. 21-23. NPR. Pathfinders Ice Skating – Nov. 30.Greenville, SC.

FLORIDA

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Oct. 19. West Palm Beach First, Pompano Beach, Margate, Ambassador in Lauderdale Lakes, Plantation. (Southeastern Conference: Port Saint Lucie.)

Oct. 26. Daytona Beach, New Smyrna, Titusville, Cocoa, Fort Pierce. (Southeastern Conference: Palm Bay.)

Nov. 2. Naples, Lehigh Acres, Ft. Myers, Cape Coral, Avon Park.

Nov.9. North Lake, Marion Oaks, Ocala, Perry, Tallahassee.

Nov. 16. Kendall, Miami Temple, Miami Springs, Maranatha in Miami Gardens, Sunrise, Midport.

Nov. 23. East Pasco, Brandon, Palmetto, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Avon Park. Free Savvy Seminar Series on Zoom – Oct. 28, 7 p.m. Ownership Issues, Avoiding Probate. To register, email planned.giving@floridaconference. com or call 407-618-0246.

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GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND

Evangelism Rally – Nov. 1. Kingsport SDA Church, Kingsport, TN.

South Georgia Camp Meeting – Nov. 14-15. Warner Robins, GA, Church. Hispanic Men’s Retreat – Nov. 14-16. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp, Crandall, GA.

Young Adult Life Retreat – Nov. 21-23. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp, Crandall, GA.

Please check our website for the latest information, www.gccsda.com.

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY

Presidential Physician Jeffrey Kuhlman – Nov. 13. Prestigious alum Jeffrey Kuhlman will share “Transforming Presidential Healthcare” and his remarkable journey from the University’s Wright Hall to the West Wing of the White House at 11 a.m. in Iles P.E. Center on campus. For streaming options and additional information, visit southern.edu/southernevents.

Archaeology Lectures. Join the School of Religion in welcoming historical excavation experts to campus during the fall semester. Learn more at southern. edu/southernevents.

Musical Performances. To find details about performances by the Univer-

sity’s musical ensembles on campus, including Christmas concerts, visit southern.edu/musicevents. Streaming options for programs to close the Sabbath hours are found at southern.edu/ evensong.

Sculpture Gallery. Hosted by the School of Visual Art and Design, the remarkable showcase of renowned sculptor Victor Issa titled “Creating Living Bronze: A 40-Year Retrospective” in the John C. Williams Gallery of Art is open through January 20, 2026. Find additional details at southern. edu/southernevents.

Explore Ireland – June 16-26, 2026. The Southern Alumni Association invites you to join an exploration of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with tour director Bill Wohlers. The current price of $4,950 (subject to adjustment) includes airfare, lodging, two meals each day, coach transportation, and sights. Visit southern.edu/ alumnitour for details.

SOUTHERN UNION

The Southern Union Annual Evangelism Conference (EC3) – Nov. 2-4, in Chattanooga, TN. Open to all church members—especially those engaged in evangelism. For details and registration: www southernunion.com/EC3.

SUNSET

ATLANTA, GA

CHARLESTON, SC

CHARLOTTE, NC

COLLEGEDALE, TN HUNTSVILLE, AL

MS

LOUISVILLE, KY

MEMPHIS, TN

MIAMI, FL

MONTGOMERY, AL

NASHVILLE, TN

ORLANDO, FL TAMPA, FL

WILMINGTON, NC

Journey

Starts Here

Are you ready to join an experience of healing and discovery?

The Journey builds on the rich legacy of the Seventh-day Adventist approach to health, which affirms and nurtures the deep connection between body, mind and spirit. Now presented as an engaging and accessible online experience, it offers a fresh way to explore the timeless principles of CREATION Life, thoughtfully applied to your life today.

But The Journey isn’t just about information — it’s about transformation. Through guided activities and a supportive community, you have the opportunity to take meaningful steps toward a life where you can truly feel whole. Along the way, you’ll explore powerful themes like forgiveness, balance, purpose and more.