Recent studies by Barna Research and Pew Research indicate that many people who have left mainstream, evangelical and Catholic churches over the past 25 years are open to returning.

Approximately 40 million people have left churches in the past 25 years, a number greater than the total who joined during the last Great Awakening.

Not all churches are revitalized and ready to receive these returning children of God, but those that are Christ-centered and outward-focused provide a welcoming environment for them to thrive.

No Condemnation

We are living in a polarized American culture of condemnation — condemnation of those who don’t look, talk or believe the same as ourselves. This has added to the widespread loneliness and the lack of safe communities for people to thrive in — even in religious gatherings and churches.

The good news is that God wants the local church to be a safe place for His children — a place unlike what the world offers.

People need safe spiritual communities where they can thrive and learn about a loving God who deeply cares for them. The Bible gives us counsel on what a Christ-centered church looks like. Notice the theme here:

Rom. 8:1 — Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 

John 3:17 — For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Rom. 8:34 — Who is He who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.

Rom. 8:35, 38–39 — Who shall separate us from the love of God … neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 John 4:18 — There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.

If nothing shall ever be able to remove God’s love from His children, then we should not remove our love from His children. 1 John 4:21 says,“This commandment we have from Him; he who loves God must love his brother [and sister] also.”

Condemnation, hatred and fear is the work of the evil one. God does not condemn. True, He does not approve of evil actions, behaviors and motivations, but He loves the person. God hates the self-centered selfishness that condemns and hurts others, but He loves the sinner. 

Yes, He will hold people who commit evil accountable in this life — there are consequences for doing wrong. In the final judgment, if there's no response to God’s love and grace, He will let us go in love.

In love, He will correct us. In love, He sends His Holy Spirit to convict us. In love, He will empower us to change our selfish behavior and motivations — all while free from condemnation.

Morris Venden wrote in Faith That Works, “It is the peace with God that gives you the power for your life to be changed. Peace does not come from trying hard to get your life fixed to claim victory — victory comes from peace. It's the feeling that you are rejected that keeps you in your sins and failures. Loving acceptance paves the way for growth."

All Hands On Deck

The theme of this month’s Gleaner is women in pastoral ministry. The early and latter rain of the Holy Spirit is preparing people to return to church. We need all hands on deck to get ready for an in-gathering.

I’m grateful for the abundant evidence of faithful Adventist women working under the leadership of the Holy Spirit in pastoral ministry, offering not only their gifts of compassion, empathy and community building but also their profound spiritual and theological leadership.

These gifts are just what the church needs now, more than ever. These women in pastoral ministry need the support of their local church family. As we work together to create loving, accepting, Christ-centered communities, the Spirit will lead those searching for safe spiritual spaces to our doors. The time for acceptance and love for others is now.

The return of Christ is nearer than when we first believed. For those who are in Christ, there is no condemnation. This is exceptionally good news, offering hope and assurance to all who believe now and all who will believe in the future!

"I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong — that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith."

Rom. 1:11–12 motivated Portland Adventist Academy to visit Las Palmas Children's Village — a cluster of ten orphan homes in the Dominican Republic established by International Children’s Care — in March 2024. While short-term
mission trips often focus on helping less fortunate brothers and sisters in materially poor countries, Sus Manos, the outreach arm of PAA's Spanish program, takes an
asset-based and collaborative view.  

Nine PAA students spent several months preparing their hearts and minds for this cross-cultural service-learning experience. Preparation included developing a daily
quiet time of Bible reading and prayer, building cultural awareness and strengthening Spanish skills.

At Las Palmas, PAA students painted a house that will receive orphaned and vulnerable children sent by the government court system. However, their focus was not on the physical work but on recognizing and supporting assets already in place at the village: loving parents, dedicated
administrators, Christian teachers and energetic children.

ICC Las Palmas Children's Village is divided into six homes of 10–12 children. PAA students spent time each day with families observing how the loving and patient houseparents blessed the children who had come from difficult and often traumatic backgrounds. ICC hires local houseparents to nurture the children in their cultural context.

The assets at Las Palmas — the buildings, land, school and wonderful staff who care for the children — are made possible by generous donors from the NPUC and throughout
the world. Caring donors, especially those who provide monthly through sponsorship and systematic giving, create a nurturing haven for children who would otherwise
have nowhere to turn.

Ana Burgos, PAA senior said, "I thought we were going to see only poverty ... but it wasn't the most important part; there were beautiful kids with joy and happiness all over the place!"

Rita Barrett, PAA Spanish teacher, presented workshops for teachers and parents, underscoring the importance of pleasure reading for academic growth. The group donated more than 400 new books in Spanish to the campus library. The Las Palmas librarian proved to be another great asset, with her passion for connecting children and
teens with books that will motivate a lifelong love of reading.

Participation in Las Palmas' annual Family Olympics games and outings to the beach and waterfalls were additional opportunities for building relationships between PAA students and Las Palmas children and teens. One local teen said, "They taught us to be more united."

Chelsea Rose, PAA junior, shared, "I really valued seeing all of the openness that people had with their belief and relationship with God. I haven't always experienced being in a place where believers are open about their relationship with God and what they're studying. Sharing with our group every morning and seeing how the kids loved talking about God really stuck with me. It was a reminder that you don't have to have the 'perfect thing' to say or the best theology to talk about God with others. I think I can make sure this sticks with me by reflecting that in my own life by sharing what I learn from God with the people around me."

Playing, working and worshiping together, visitors and hosts found opportunities to encourage each other's faith and to grow stronger together.

Jackie Langi, Auburn City Church associate pastor, joined the ministry team in August 2024. Washington Conference had a Q&A with her to hear what she plans to do in her new role.

Q: What brought you to join the pastoral team at Auburn City Church?

LANGI: Pastoral ministry to me is like a door that God has opened for me that I did not foresee as being part of my walk with Him. Through much thought and prayer, I was able to decide to accept the invitation to join the pastoral team here at Auburn City Church. I’m truly excited to work alongside Kyle Barrow and my husband, Ofa Langi, to continue reaching families in our community.

Q: What pastoral role are you taking on?

LANGI: My role at Auburn City Church will be as an associate pastor, specifically working with children and families. I hope to bring a fresh perspective and new energy to our programs and work together to continue growing our church family and the kingdom of God.

Q: Have you always wanted to be in the ministry?

LANGI: I can't say that I have “always” wanted to be in the ministry. I can say, however, that I've “always” loved people and service. As an elementary school counselor, I got to help kids navigate big issues and learn how their minds and bodies worked and then connected it all with how much God loved them and wanted the best for them — that was ministry. 

I later transitioned to serve the girls and families as dean of Grace Hall at Auburn Adventist Academy. To some, this may have seemed like a regular job, but on the inside, it was a lifestyle. We were a family full of ups and downs, questions and lessons, nurture and love, safety and boundaries, and trial and error. I walked alongside our girls as they traversed through their high school years — that was ministry. 

My most important work has been mothering my own four precious kids. So much goes into raising our kids for the kingdom. It's a daily surrender to the One who loves them most and prayers that what we give will be enough — hallelujah, this, too, is ministry! The heart of service God has placed within me has naturally pushed me into pastoral ministry and I'm thankful that He has considered and given a way for me to co-labor with Him.

Q: You are also going to be leading a conference-wide ministry. What is Mates in Ministry?

LANGI: Mates in Ministry is a place to find connection and friendship for pastoral spouses. I want to help facilitate a support system of community with opportunities for pastoral spouses across the conference to connect and build trusted friendships with each other. If you know me, coming together for meals, fellowship and laughter are vital to a happy life!

Q: What biblical character do you relate to most? Why?

LANGI: I relate to Moses the most because he first looked at his inadequacies and it took God reminding and empowering him to lean on Him. Despite his excuses, God always provided and fulfilled His promise that He’d never leave nor forsake him. I’m thankful that God has promised me that when I’m weak, He’s strong. This has always helped me push past my human excuses and move forward in faith, knowing God has my back.

Q: What are your biggest goals with your new role?

LANGI: My biggest goal would be to point people to our Father in heaven who loves them more than they could ever imagine and to make the best decision to
follow Him with their whole hearts.

Every transition of life brings bittersweet feelings. During this time of transition, as I let go of one and grasp another, I will continue to pray for guidance and hope for God’s will to work in my life and bring continued blessings to those around me. I am beyond humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve in this new role.

Q: What was one pivotal moment in your faith journey?

LANGI: The unexpected loss of my dad hurt worse than anything I had ever experienced, and for a time I lost my joy and hope. The lifelong relationship that I’ve had with God helped me to lean into my faith like I had never before. In turn, my faith grew even stronger and I learned what it meant to be a child of God.

Q: Who were/are your biggest spiritual mentors? Why?

LANGI: I’ve been blessed to have a life partner in my husband whom I’ve always been able to confide in, trust and be vulnerable with in my spiritual walk.

Follow the daily reading plan and you will read the entire Bible in a year.

Sept. 1: Jonah
Sept. 2: 2 Kings 1–7
Sept. 3: 2 Kings 8–11
Sept. 4: 2 Kings 12–13
Sept. 5: 2 Chron. 24–28
Sept. 6: 2 Kings 14–19

Sept. 8: Micah
Sept. 9: Isa. 1–7
Sept. 10: Isa. 8–12
Sept. 11: Amos 1–5
Sept. 12: Amos 6–9
Sept. 13: Psalm 48

Sept. 15: Isa. 28–30
Sept. 16: Isa. 13–17
Sept. 17: Isa. 18–22
Sept. 18: Isa. 23–27
Sept. 19: 2 Chron. 29–31
Sept. 20: Hosea

Sept. 22: Psalm 46, 135
Sept. 23: Isa. 31–36
Sept. 24: Isa. 37–39
Sept. 25: Psalm 76, 80
Sept. 26: Isa. 40–43
Sept. 27: Isa. 44–48

Sept. 29: Isa. 49–58
Sept. 30: Isa. 59–63

Our Bible reading plan leaves Sabbath as a time to share and reflect on your readings for the week. Find creative ways each Sabbath to share your reflections with others on what God is teaching you from your Bible reading time!

Follow us @NWAdventists on Instagram and Facebook.

In 2018, Eleanor Hetke, Clark County Adventist Community Services Center director, invited Marilyn Puccinelli to develop a garden on the center's property. The freshly grown organic produce supplements other food and clothing given to clients who come for special assistance. 

Volunteers from Adventist Community Church of Vancouver and other Adventist and non-Adventist churches in the area care for the 3,000-square-foot garden. Their efforts have significantly impacted the local community by providing fresh, organic produce to those in need.

The garden is grown through an organic approach. The harvest of the large variety of plants is bountiful. The center teaches classes for the community that explain how and why each gardening step is done. A teacher at a nearby school brought students to see why the center’s garden was doing well when theirs was not. Vancouver’s mayor has strongly supported the center’s influence in the community.

The garden is grown through an organic approach, which helps control diseases and pests without using chemicals. The harvest of the large variety of plants is bountiful and, many believe, sweeter-tasting. The center teaches classes for the community that explain how and why each gardening step is done. A teacher at a nearby school brought students over to see why the center’s garden was doing so well when theirs was not. Vancouver’s mayor has strongly supported the center’s influence in the community.

Word had gotten out about the success of the garden. In 2024, Clark County Green Neighbors invited the center to participate in its annual Natural Garden Tour. The self-guided tour included nine different gardens in the county and more than 130 people visited the center’s garden. The tour brought excited affirmation, not only for the well-planned garden but for the service it provides for the community. Behind it all, however, is a sense of gratitude for the Creator who invited them to garden in the first place.

The Pacific Northwest is witnessing a significant boost in public campus ministry with the launch of Adventist Christian Fellowship activities in the region.

This initiative connects local and regional efforts to a robust network of more than 100 ACF chapters across North America, enhancing support and networking opportunities for campus ministries.

Traditionally gathering annually for the ACF Institute, this year each union hosted its own training gatherings.

Fittingly themed, “The Launch,” this year’s institute marked a historic first in the Pacific Northwest, drawing more than 25 public campus university students, pastors, leaders and church members.

Represented campuses included Montana State University, University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Idaho, Green River College and University of Washington's Seattle and Tacoma campuses.

"ACFi is pivotal in fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth among Adventist students on non-Adventist campuses,” said Rob Lang, North Pacific Union youth and young adult ministries director. “It empowers student leaders, pastors and church members to effectively minister in these unique environments.”

The NPUC ACFi convened in late June at the University of Washington Seattle campus. Activities included a bowling night and networking, followed by intensive learning sessions and a visit to Pike Place Market.

Guest speakers Ron Pickell, Pacific Union campus ministries director, and Joshua Guerrero, Wisconsin Conference ACF coordinator, as well as John and Sarah Leis, Northwest ACFi hosts, shared their expertise in campus ministries.

Topics included how to mingle with, minister to and reach students with the gospel. Evangelism on campus and ACF advocates were also presented in practical, easy-to-use terms.

“One of my favorite aspects of this weekend was having deep conversations with mentors and leaders,” said Ashok Willmott, Springfield/Storyline intern associate pastor whose church is near University of Oregon. “I have little experience in public campus ministry and hearing their challenges prepped me for whatever challenges are ahead of me.”

To provide follow-up support, an ACF Cohort is now established to offer monthly meetings for supporting and training each new ACF club. This cohort is designed to launch, grow and sustain ACF clubs on non-Adventist campuses across NPUC.

“As our students are spiritually nurtured and connected, they become even more capable of sharing the love of Jesus on their campus,” said Lang. “By building strong ACF chapters, we can reach the campus and change the world, one student at a time."

“This ACFi has encouraged me because it showed me there are others out there with the same heart for college campuses as me,” reflected Daniel Gorton, a participant from Oregon Conference with a passion for campus ministries. “I sense God is raising up more leaders on public college campuses across NPUC to lead students to the knowledge of how much God loves them and to live influential, impactful lives.”

Next year is the 20th anniversary of ACF within North American Division. Washington Conference and NPUC will be co-hosting this division-wide event on the University of Washington Seattle campus July 22–26, 2025.

Are you a student, pastor or church member who is interested in learning more about this mostly untouched mission field? Email john.leis@wc.npuc.org for more information and how you can become involved. 

Seeking to reach people outside their walls, more than 200 Adventist churches across North America, including several in Washington Conference, hosted the short mental health series, MindFit, this past spring. Voice of Prophecy produced the event to empower churches to be practical and spiritual resources for their communities in battling a continent-wide mental health crisis.

“On a global scale, 1 in 8 people struggle daily with mental illness — 1 in 5 in North America. The implication is clear: It is nearly impossible to live on this earth and not be affected by mental illness,” said Alex Rodriguez, Voice of Prophecy associate speaker.

Each session of MindFit, a four-part event, commences with audiences watching a 30-minute episode of a docuseries hosted by Rodriguez, who traveled across North America to speak with mental health professionals and patients. The series sheds light on the history and prevalence of mental health challenges. It emphasizes that effective treatments are available and amplified by biblical principles. After each episode, a local church leader guides the audience through a provided study and discussion.

Karen Hackett, Enumclaw Adventist Church elder, and Kaori Ominato, Enumclaw Church health ministry director, coordinated MindFit at their church. Both witnessed the event impact attendees in powerful ways.

“Many who came were really helped,” Hackett explained. “Some didn’t realize the statistics of how many people have mental illness, and it was good for them to hear that there are resources out there. Even those who may not struggle were happy to receive the information to help others they knew.”

Ominato was impressed by the audience’s engagement, stating that several people — including herself — felt encouraged by the docuseries and discussions.

“We had a very good interactive follow-up,” Ominato said. “We broke up into groups after the video and people really opened up their hearts. We had prayers. Those were very powerful experiences.”

Nearly 60 people attended the event, and approximately 10 were non-members. Hackett wants to hold the series again, hoping to draw in even more.

MindFit brought in a record number of event attendees to Bellevue Adventist Church, according to Ritchie Hammen, Bellevue Church health director, who organized the series for his local community. Each session averaged 80 people and about 10 came from the community.

“Eighty was unheard of in our church, at least in the 20 years I’ve been here,” Hammen enthused.

Hammen was also excited about the hunger his audience had for the presented material. A non-Adventist couple came to each session, even driving an hour and a half one night to attend. Some attendees expressed interest in helping with other mental health–related church events. One regular churchgoer approached Hammen one night and opened up about a traumatic experience.

“It was a very special moment when the person said, ‘This is the horrible stuff that I went through, but I feel like I’m already healing. And this event has just helped that journey even more,’” Hammen recalled.

“I’ve always expected quality from Voice of Prophecy,” he continued, “and this was a quality program — something people outside the church would pay to watch. I appreciated how the spiritual elements were presented in a way that was compelling and evidence-based. They didn’t feel forced. I was floored with the quality of the presentation, the content, the shots — I thought, ‘Our church needs more of this.’”

For churches interested in hosting the event and receiving an advertising boost to draw in more community members, Voice of Prophecy will conduct a continent-wide MindFit campaign on Sept. 19–21, 2024 and again on Jan. 2–4, 2025. In the weeks leading up to these dates, host churches will benefit from a mass social media campaign promoting the series.

“With approximately 6,500 Adventist churches dotting the landscape of North America, our denomination is uniquely positioned to be a center of healing for those who are struggling,” Rodriguez observed. “We filmed MindFit to place churches at the forefront of the mental health conversation. May the love of Jesus be reflected through us as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit in bringing physical and spiritual healing to a world perishing in hopelessness.”

Visit MindFitEvent.com/host to join the myriad churches serving their communities through this unique evangelistic event.

The mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is to “make disciples of Jesus Christ who live as His loving witnesses and proclaim to all people the everlasting gospel of the Three Angels’ Messages in preparation for His soon return.”¹ Due to each person’s uniqueness and individuality in Christ, we need a variety of people — men and women of all generations and walks of life — to carry out that mission.

In the Bible, God’s intent is clear: He created both man and woman in His image. One is not superior to the other. Eve was not formed from the ground like Adam but was instead formed from Adam’s rib. This difference does not promote inequality between the genders but rather introduces the idea from the very beginning that man and woman are to stand side by side as equals.²

Jesus reaffirms this in the gospels by directing people back to God's original plan "from the beginning" (Matt. 19:8). While Jesus didn’t alter the Jewish cultural practices of the time by selecting women to be His immediate disciples, His kindness and respect for women revolutionized the way they were treated and set an example for future generations.

Fundamental Belief 14 of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Unity in the Body of Christ, says, “In Christ we are a new creation; distinctions of race, culture, learning and nationality, and differences between high and low, rich and poor, male and female, must not be divisive among us. We are all equal in Christ, who by one Spirit has bonded us into one fellowship with Him and with one another; we are to serve and be served without partiality or reservation.”³

According to this fundamental belief, all are equal in the eyes of Christ, and all are called to serve Him — in hospitals, in community service, in pastoral ministry and in third spaces. We need all people, united in the body of Christ, to work together to "Reach One More."

During a time where the roles and rights of women in pastoral ministry within the Adventist Church are being debated, God continues to call women from each generation to serve as pastors. They answer His call and serve Him, focusing on the mission and preparing for His soon return.

How do we provide our women pastors with the support they need to reach one more for Christ? Join us in a conversation with five women in pastoral ministry throughout North Pacific Union as they share their stories, feedback and insights.

God has promised a special gift to His church and His people living in the last days. This promise is illustrated in a very familiar passage found in Joel 2:28–29: “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my Spirit." This promise is for us today — for all people.

As we prepare for the Pentecost 2025* evangelism initiative, there is a need to reiterate this promise and to clarify that God is inviting young people, old people, men and women to receive His Spirit and to teach and preach as a witness for Him in these last days.

In the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we believe in the priesthood of all believers — all have been called to proclaim the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. To be clear, women are a part of this calling and our youth are a part of this calling. We need everyone to finish the work that God has entrusted to us. The Adventist Church still believes God has called women to play a significant role in the advancement and the finishing of His work. The church still calls women to serve in leadership roles in the local church as pastors, elders and departmental leaders, as well as conference, union, division and General Conference leaders.

I want to take this moment to celebrate and thank all the women who have served this church so faithfully over the years. I also want to acknowledge that this church would not be where it is today without women leading in various capacities and the pivotal role they have played in the advancement of our mission.

God calls us to make disciples in Matt. 28:18–20 and promises in Acts 1:8 that He will grant the power of the Holy Spirit upon us to be His witnesses. When the Christian church began, we see in its infancy a marvelous display of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Acts 11:15–17 says, “And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them [Gentiles], as upon us at the beginning ... Forasmuch then as God gave them the gift as He did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?" The disciples discerned that the same Holy Spirit that fell upon them had also fallen upon the Gentiles. God was fulfilling His promise. He was, and still is, pouring out His Spirit upon all flesh.

It is my prayer that we earnestly pray for the outpouring of God’s Spirit upon all of God’s people. May His gift be seen in each of us! As we prepare for Pentecost 2025, the shaking time and for the final and rapid movements of God, may the words of the prophet Joel be lived out in God’s church: “I will pour out My spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.”

Let us pray fervently for the outpouring of the latter rain and let us use everyone that God is calling to preach the everlasting gospel as a witness to all nations so that the end will come and we can see our Lord and Savior face-to-face. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!

*Pentecost 2025 is an evangelism initiative spanning NAD that encourages churches, schools and members to pray for the Holy Spirit’s power in conducting at least 3,000 proclamation events.

This article also appears in the October 2024 Adventist Journey.

Have you ever changed your mind on something important? I have.

Changing your mind about a fundamental issue or belief can be one of the hardest mental shifts to go through.

Perhaps you’ve adopted a new system of beliefs, experienced a 180-degree shift in thinking or reconsidered an issue or topic after learning more information.

One of my major life mind shifts is related to this issue’s topic — women in pastoral ministry. I’ve come to understand that God calls both men and women into pastoral ministry, but I didn’t always have this understanding.

Growing up, I assumed that pastoral roles were for men, like my father, and teaching roles were for women, like my mother. They followed God’s leading so well in their life and ministry that this made the most logical sense to me.

In my early adulthood, I encountered women in pastoral ministry and was initially skeptical, thinking their motivations were personal ambitions rather than a divine calling.

Then God began to change my perspective. Through personal and professional encounters with female pastors, my viewpoint gradually shifted. I witnessed the strength of their conviction in God’s calling and purpose in their lives. 

I learned from the depths of their sermons, Bible studies and small groups, and I experienced a new level of pastoral care. Over time, I listened to their advice, disagreed occasionally and grew in my overall appreciation for their Spirit-led mentoring.

As time went on, it became clear to me that personal biases often overshadow theological understanding in discussions about women in pastoral ministry and women's ordination.

God used first-hand encounters to change my viewpoints and connect me with a tribe of multi-generational female pastors and spiritual leaders. It's often been this group that receives my first phone call or text message on my darkest days. Time after time, these dedicated pastors have followed God’s promptings to offer specific encouragement, often before I even knew I needed it.

Maybe this topic of women in pastoral ministry isn’t a sticking point for you, but there may be another spiritual, relational or theological area you struggle with. The same principles apply: As we follow God’s leading, He can transform our mindset through scripture study, the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, prayer, reflection and daily interactions.

We have a sacred mission to "Reach One More," and this requires all of us — men and women, young and old, pastors and members — to work together with the Holy Spirit.

Let us remain open to how God works in our lives to broaden our understanding and perspective, allowing His truth to shape our hearts and actions as we grow together in faith.

Table Talk Prompt

Is there a belief or perspective in your life that the Holy Spirit might be prompting you to reevaluate? How open are you to embracing a change of view?

In Kelso, Washington, Jim John, Journey Adventist Church pastor, has spent the past few years working to return to the Acts 2 example of evangelism.

John first found Jesus in his 20s after getting out of the military but did not take the call to pastoral ministry until around 10 years ago. 

“I’m no great preacher, but I do know this,” John shared, “I always want to make sure that what I share is affecting people’s lives on Monday morning. When I think about ending a message, I think, ‘What’s the big idea? What can we do with this? How can we integrate this into the mess of our world? How does it work in daily life?'” 

It was from this line of thinking that Journey Church began to change the way they did things a few years ago. It started with a small group of dedicated leaders and some training. 

As the group studied, grew and prepared to lead community groups of their own, John shared there were several key factors in setting the groups up for success. Creating a space of safety and vulnerability was a top priority for Journey Church. Facilitators were trained in how to engage and create room for voices who may be talked over or missed otherwise, as well as how to work with those who would attempt to dominate the conversations. 

“Small groups have been done forever — and they’re good — but they haven’t been done like this. No one is teaching in these groups," John explained. "There’s a facilitator that ensures the group stays on task and that you don’t have group killers overwhelming the conversations.” 

Now, there is a community group led by Journey Church members every day of the week other than Sabbath. “Nine groups are meeting right now. Every day of the week except Saturday night there is a community group happening anywhere from Castle Rock down to Ridgefield!” enthused John. 

Another key element for Journey Church group leaders has been a consistent group cycle. At church on Sabbath, John shares a message that will be discussed at the community groups throughout the week, and the groups meet for eight to nine weeks before taking a break. 

“We take breaks during the holiday season for almost two months for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as a month off for spring break," John said. "That allows people to say, ‘You know, I can do just about anything for eight or nine weeks.’”

“We work all year long toward an open baptism,” said John. “These are people who are being discipled. They’ve been in groups together. They’re relationally connected to other people in the church. When we see someone new at church now, we don’t just say ‘Hey, nice to see you! Come back next week!’ We say, ‘Would you come to my house this week for some food and to meet some new people?’" 

John continued, "When they come over, they hear someone share a story about their lives because these are vulnerable groups. We let them know that what they share will stay there because it needs to be a safe place. So, when they do come to church, they’re connected. They recognize someone and go sit with them.”

“In the past 18 months we have had 44 people come to Christ without an evangelistic series,” said John, “This is a direct result of sermon-based community groups allowing the Holy Spirit to do this — and being willing to do something different.”

North Pacific Union executive committee has embraced the vision for Pentecost 2025, an evangelism initiative that seeks to encourage 3,000 evangelism proclamation meetings throughout North America.

In their most recent meeting on Aug. 14, 2024, the committee approved the promotion of Pentecost 2025 across the six ministry conferences in the five Pacific Northwest states. The committee’s decision includes three key actions: inviting churches and schools to participate, setting a prayer goal for participation and allocating additional funding to support the initiative.

The prayer goal is to engage at least 400 churches and schools in these proclamation events, which will include Bible study groups, evangelistic meetings, weeks of prayer and other opportunities spanning five days or more to specifically invite people to accept Jesus.

“The Holy Spirit is a promise to the church,” remarked John Freedman, NPUC president. “I’ve seen churches that have turned around through prayer.”

Boise Valley Adventist School is pleased to revive its sports program to support a lifetime of habitual exercise, to teach sports skills and to glorify God through sporting activities.

The revived program includes girls’ volleyball and girls’ and boys’ basketball, which are organized and facilitated by Jamie Miller, athletic director and seventh- and eighth-grade teacher.

Here’s a Q&A interview with Miller to share more about this revived sports program.

Q: Why did you want to revive the middle school sports program?

MILLER: Students thrive when given opportunities to choose in learning. It's important for our students to have experiences that are rich in academics, creative in the arts and music, and active in sports. 

Q: What was your goal for implementing the sports program?

MILLER: My goal was for middle schoolers — sixth through eighth grade — to have the opportunity to glorify God through exercising their bodies, to make new friends, to implement a lifetime of habitual exercise, to develop volleyball and basketball skills, and to develop healthy competition with other schools. 

Q: Sports also help with academic performance, social skills, teamwork, leadership skills, discipline and health. What benefits did you see through the implementation of the sports program?

MILLER: I believe these goals drive students to be successful in relationships with God and others, in academics, in arts and music, and in navigating daily life.

Q: Students were able to scrimmage with area Christian middle school and homeschool leagues. Which schools participated in the program?

MILLER: This school year, students from BVAS and Caldwell Adventist Elementary School practiced and played volleyball and basketball games against other middle schools in the valley. 

Q: Who coached the teams?

MILLER: Girls' volleyball was coached by Courteney Mace, BVAS Pre-K/Kindergarten teacher, and Ariel Fuentealba, a church friend. Girls' and boys' basketball were coached by Peter Smith, a church friend.

Q: I heard the girls were so excited about the startup of the new sports program that 16 showed up to volleyball practice on the first day. Did you receive parent support, as well?

MILLER: Yes! Parents and family members volunteered to carpool students to the games, run the money table and provide new uniforms for the girls’ volleyball team. Teachers and students volunteered to run the scoreboard for basketball and volleyball games. In addition, church members volunteered to help coach the various teams.

Q: The implementation of this sports program has been a great opportunity for students to become familiar with the game and build skills for future sports. What is your hope for the future of this program?

MILLER: My hope for the future is to join Gem State Adventist Academy as their middle school team in the Western Idaho Conference League.

Backpacks and binders, colored pencils and calculators — it’s back-to-school time for the thousands of students attending North Pacific Union Adventist schools. They will be served by teachers who are trained to ensure the Christ-focused development of the whole student, a hallmark of Adventist education.

Walla Walla University believes Adventist education is more important than ever. To encourage more students to consider teaching as a career, two years ago WWU partnered with NPUC to offer the NextGen Teacher scholarship. WWU is also offering innovative new programs and collaborative services to support even more Adventist teachers as they inspire academic excellence and faith in God.

“Almost 30 years ago, I was walking into a hotel near LAX International Airport to join the Marines,” shared José Galvez, Stayton Church, Silverton Church and Molalla Church pastor. 

“I had done pretty much all I needed to do; I just needed to get through the physical and sign on the dotted line. I was only a few days away, but my mom was really upset about it. She had gone through civil war in El Salvador and she did not want to see her son go to war. I didn’t want to break my mom’s heart, so I asked God for direction and ended up pulling out at the last minute,” said Galvez.

Instead of joining the military all those years ago, Galvez followed a call that had been on his heart for a long time — the call to pastoral ministry. He has served as a pastor since 2000 and has served local churches in Oregon Conference for the past 18 years. 

In 2017, Galvez found himself once again grappling with the impact the war in El Salvador had had on him. “We took a trip to Israel in 2017 with the conference, and at one of the checkpoints we were passing through we were stopped and asked for our passports," Galvex remembered. "For some reason, I could not find mine. I panicked. My buddies who were with me that day still remember it. But I finally found it, everything was cool and we had a good laugh about it."

"When I went to the hotel that night, I couldn’t get my mind off of what had happened," Galvez continued. "It reminded me of the times we had been pulled over in El Salvador and asked for papers. Back then, if you didn’t have your papers your life was on the line. You might never be seen again. So it was this experience of PTSD. I struggled that night to get to sleep.”

“When I woke up the next morning, I prayed about it. I realized that I have a unique story — a unique set of skills and experiences that could be used to help empathize and work with individuals in the armed forces,” shared Galvez. “I waited about a year before I approached my wife. We prayed about it and around three years ago I made the call to contact a recruiter. It’s been a long process, but we feel that God has opened the doors the whole way.”

In June 2024, Galvez was commissioned as a Navy chaplain — a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy working with the Navy Reserves. “I’ve been blessed to have veterans in each of the churches I serve, and they’ve been so encouraging in their belief that this work would help to give me more ministry tools to apply to both the military and the local church,” he said.

“I want people to know I’m not leaving local church ministry, I’m simply expanding my ministry. I’m allowing God to use my skill set and experiences to be able to touch others who I wouldn’t normally have access to.” As for what ministry means to Galvez, that remains the same — and it doesn’t just happen during the church service. 

“Ministry really happens on a one-to-one basis," said Galvez. "It’s when you show up for the birthday parties, weddings and funerals. It happens on the golf course and when you’re down helping pull weeds. Whatever it might be that you’re doing with people, it’s those connections that really lead to deeper relationships where people can feel comfortable talking about their wounds and traumas. We all have those, a lot of times we just cover them up.”

Please pray for Galvez and his family as he continues to grow his ministry here in Oregon Conference.

Some mission trips are far away from home, and others are closer to home.

After months of planning and preparation, members from Abundant Life Adventist Church in Wenatchee, Washington, went to "Serve One More" by helping a fellow church in Grand Coulee with facility renovations.

Grand Coulee Adventist Company had a previous location with multiple sets of stairs to access any level of the facility. They found a new single-level location to meet for worship services, but it required some big renovations.

The pandemic halted much of the renovation process. When Abundant Life members approached Grand Coulee members about a potential partnership, Grand Coulee welcomed the help.

Volunteers arrived to serve from March 31 to April 5, with a few key volunteers arriving a few days earlier to help with project preparation. They helped install new siding on the sanctuary and connecting areas, as well as painting the entire building. Next, Abundant Life members helped drywall, mud, sand, prime and paint the sanctuary. Additional tasks included landscaping and building a new platform.

Grand Coulee members reported feeling grateful for all the help provided by Abundant Life members, friends and extended family members who joined in the week of volunteering.

Marlene Oddie, Grand Coulee treasurer, shared a gallery of images from Abundant Life’s week of mission service.

“There is still a lot more work to do, but we were grateful for the opportunity to have such an angelic experience,” Oddie said.

Have you ever met someone new? Maybe you went to a new classroom or visited a new town. That’s what Paul and his friends did.

They went to a city they had never been to. It was Sabbath, and there was no church to worship in. Paul knew that small groups met in homes or by rivers, so he went out the city gate and walked along the river.

Paul and his friends wanted to share the good news about Jesus. They saw a group of women singing and praising God on the riverbank. Paul sat down and talked with the women. One of them was Lydia.

Lydia worshiped God, but she did not know about Jesus. God opened her heart to accept what Paul told her. She and all the people living in her house were baptized in the river.

Many people knew Lydia. She owned a business that sold purple cloth and dye. The cloth cost so much money that only rich people could afford it.

Lydia was also kind. She had Paul and his friends stay in her home. She helped them tell people about Jesus. Many people learned that God is love. Soon, her home became a worship center.

Paul was the new kid in town and Lydia welcomed him. They talked about Jesus and became friends.

Now think about a new kid coming to your school or Sabbath School class. Do you suppose they might need a friend? How can you welcome them?

You can be a good friend and a good leader like Lydia. Anyone — boy or girl, rich or poor — can be a worker for Him. He will help you tell others about Jesus and make friends for Him.

For family worship, you can read more about this story in Acts 16:11–15.

I hear a lot of stories from people about how they hate their boss or how their supervisor is super hard to please and get along with. I, too, have worked for people through the years that have made life harder and less pleasant. An unpleasant boss can make work a miserable experience — one we often stick with only because we need the paycheck.

Although there are days I am exhausted and low on positivity, and although I am not the best at always listening to my boss, I can honestly say that by doing pastoral ministry I have the best “boss.”

Some of you will say that the main reason I’m so positive is because I get to do ministry with my husband. It’s true that working with him is the best pairing for coworkers — we do enjoy each other’s company, work very well together and get along better than most colleagues. I am truly blessed to be able to do ministry alongside my spouse, but this isn’t the work relationship I’m referring to. 

The boss and leader I report to first is Jesus Christ. 

As a pastor, I have the amazing opportunity and blessing of working for Jesus. My calling to be a pastor is one I received from God at a young age. Try as I might to resist this call, it has continued to burn in my heart. It's a calling that drives me to share Jesus with those around me and work to lead a church to the best of my abilities. 

When God put a call on my heart and gave me a passion, I couldn’t ignore it. When He provided ways — even outside the normal routes — for me to work for Him, I must obey and follow that call. This doesn't mean that my calling — pastorate — is without challenges and difficulties. Any profession has its hard parts and difficult days, but I can honestly say there is nothing in this world I would rather do as a job and profession. 

I am so blessed to be able to do pastoral ministry and share Jesus with people. I have been and continue to be blessed with a church family that affirms my calling into pastoral ministry. I want to seek to follow God’s call in my life for as long as I live and, hopefully through my ministry, be a blessing to others.

​For those of us who have chosen to follow the call of God into pastoral ministry, I would implore you to remember this verse with Jesus' words spoken to humanity.

Matt. 11:28–30 says, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

​We are never alone in this world and in the challenges we face. Whether a pastor or not, these words should be remembered. Jesus wants to carry our burdens and make our load light; He wants to help us through life.

​If you are working in a non-pastoral position, you are truly working in the mission field. Remember Jesus' words, He wants to carry your burdens and give you rest. Take time to acquaint yourself with the best “boss” you can ever serve.

​If you are a pastor, I would plead with you to find time to be connected with Jesus Christ. He should be the first being you report to each and every day. Don’t forget the calling God placed on your heart that led you into pastoral ministry. He still wants to do great things through you.

Walla Walla University’s Center for Humanitarian Engagement paired with Spokane Central Adventist Church for a full day of service in early February 2024. 

After a haystack lunch, WWU volunteers and Spokane Central Church members struck out for Spokane House of Charity, a homeless shelter for men. There, they washed feet, passed out socks and listened to residents’ stories. 

“It was kind of a boost to get us up and moving,” said Wenda Livingston, Spokane Central member. 

The volunteers rejoined with those who stayed behind to sort Bible felts at the church before ending the day with a hymn fest and game night complete with nachos. 

This service day exemplifies what WWU’s CHE wants to do through its Community Action Relief Experience project. CARE weekends push the idea of service and Sabbath by helping people use their free time to give back to their communities. 

One WWU volunteer said, “It was by far the most impactful and tangible Sabbath I've ever had.”

Spokane Central Church has been coordinating with CHE to bring the CARE project to their congregation. They hope it will expand the work they have been doing for the homeless population in Spokane.

WWU is a private Christian liberal arts university that offers rigorous academic programs achievable in a supportive atmosphere from dedicated professors. CHE promotes a campus-wide lifestyle of service by connecting the WWU campus with service-oriented tools, resources and opportunities. For more information, visit wallawalla.edu. 

From June 17–22, 2024, church members across Washington Conference and beyond gathered for a highly anticipated annual camp meeting. This year's theme, "Greater Things: Thy Kingdom Come," set the tone for a week filled with spiritual enrichment, inspiring talks, uplifting music and a variety of activities for all ages.

The six-day event began with a warm and welcoming barbecue hosted by Sugs Food Truck, run by the friendly faces of Ofa Langi, Auburn City Church pastor, and his wife, Jackie, Auburn City Church associate pastor. Their delicious food was the perfect start to the week, bringing everyone together in a spirit of fellowship and joy.

Lee Venden, keynote speaker, delivered powerful messages that resonated deeply with attendees, encouraging them to embrace the greater things God has in store for us. His teachings were complemented by the inspiring music of Buddy Houghtaling, whose performances brought a heartfelt connection to each worship.

Throughout the week, numerous seminars and workshops offered something for everyone. Topics ranged from learning to live sustainably and living self-sufficiently, to hands-on cooking classes that allowed participants to explore new recipes and cooking techniques. 

For parents navigating the challenges of the modern world, a seminar on parenting post-pandemic was a valuable resource. Additionally, photography workshops offered a unique perspective on capturing the beauty of God's creation through the lens. These were just a few of the many sessions that highlighted various aspects of life and catered to all interests and age groups.

Camp meeting truly had something for everyone, from toddlers to adults of all ages. Afternoon programs were fun for all. Activities included the vibrant Health Fair that offered free health screenings and wellness tips, a toy stuffing community service project for children in crisis and a 5K that encouraged fitness and camaraderie.

Pathfinders and Adventurers earned honors in various skills, including Gift Wrapping and Pizza Maker. Church members were invited to Empower the Church trainings where attendees gained valuable insights and tools to strengthen the ministries close to their hearts.

The return of Jonah's Bait Shop, a toy shop run by Kaitlyn Herman, Washington Conference executive assistant, was a hit with the little ones. The new treat stop, Joseph's Cone of Many Colors, offered ice cream and snow cones, providing a sweet treat to help everyone cool off in the summer heat.

One of the highlights of the week was the numerous baptisms that took place. The Sabbath service was attended by more than 2,500 people in Rainier Auditorium alone — 3,000 on the AAA campus at large — and featured the long-awaited return of the conference-wide Camp Meeting Choir, accompanied by an orchestra and conducted by Deneil Clarke, Renton Church pastor. Their harmonious melodies and uplifting hymns added to the spiritual lessons of the day.

The Gospel Sing-Along led by Maylan Schurch, Bellevue Church pastor, brought the community together in a beautiful chorus of praise and worship, creating a sense of unity and shared faith.

Washington Conference Camp Meeting 2024 was a spiritually nourishing experience, filled with fellowship, food, friends and family. Each workshop and worship service truly showcased the presence of God's love, making the theme, "Greater Things: Thy Kingdom Come," come alive in participants’ hearts and minds. The lessons and blessings from this week will be carried into everyone’s daily lives.

Prison ministries leaders in the Pacific Northwest will need to wait for another year for a regional training conference, event organizers announced Thursday, August 22.

“We had planned to host an NPUC Prison Ministry Convention this September 13-14 in Gladstone, Oregon,” said Byron Dulan, NPUC vice president for regional ministries and prison ministry director. “Our planning team faced a myriad of issues in planning this convention and so we voted to postpone this convention until next year – likely September 2025.”

Yet, the needs for prison ministry still exist. During the pandemic, prisons were shut down for in-person prison ministry activities.

With the pandemic pause on volunteerism, established volunteers found other ways to be involved in prison ministry such as letter writing and supporting transition houses. These ministry expressions require a different base of volunteers that doesn’t crossover with in-person prison ministry.

As prisons are opening up again to accept prison ministry volunteers, the network of volunteers is needing to be reestablished and expanded.

“This is a unique, special and meaningful area of ministry,” Dulan said. “While the training convention may not be happening for our union territory, your conference prison ministry coordinators are available to answer questions, provide you training and onboard you for being involved in various forms of ministry to inmates.”

In an era where screens dominate daily life, one Pacific Northwest group of professionals has embarked on a mission to infuse faith into the digital world. Their journey, rooted in a childhood under the shadow of religious censorship in the Soviet Union, has blossomed into a project that seeks to engage and enrich spiritual lives through a game called Load the Ark.

A Legacy of Faith and Media

The seeds of this endeavor were planted more than 30 years ago in a small Soviet household. The children, inspired by their mother's dedication to retyping Christian books on a typewriter during a time when religious literature was banned, saw firsthand the immense value people placed on these homemade books.

“We grew up understanding the power of media,” recalled Andrei Melniciuc, Adventist member and game developer. “When the Soviet Union fell, our father began editing Christian periodicals, bringing a computer into our lives. My brother and I helped with layout and text entry, and in the evenings we discovered interactive media.”

This fascination, coupled with their commitment to their faith, laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Load the Ark.

The Digital Age: A New Platform for Faith

Today, the digital age offers a new platform for spreading faith. The internet has become a modern-day pulpit, with religious leaders and organizations utilizing websites, podcasts and social media channels to share sermons, teachings and discussions accessible anytime, anywhere. For DayStar
Media Labs, an organization founded by a group of friends and siblings to promote Christian arts and media, this digital landscape presented both an opportunity and a challenge.

Amidst the sea of digital offerings, there is a growing desire for wholesome, Bible-based content. Commercial media often overlooks the values central to many faith-based communities, the DayStar Media Labs team observed: "As Psalm 119:105 says, ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.’ We wanted to create something that would serve as that light in today’s screen-centric world."

Introducing Load the Ark

“Load the Ark” is DayStar Media Labs’ answer to the call for more wholesome, Bible-based digital offerings. The tile-matching puzzle game is inspired by the story of Noah’s Ark, and it serves as more than just a source of entertainment. It’s a digital gateway to faith, turning a Biblical narrative into an engaging activity that reflects the teachings of the Bible.

But the game offers more than gameplay. It features "Arkopedia," an educational module about animals and their conservation status, bridging spirituality with environmental awareness.

The module also includes quizzes that test players' knowledge of animals in the Bible, providing an educational twist to the game. The news section spotlights the work of Christian environmental and humanitarian organizations, such as ADRA’s goat program, informing players about their projects and encouraging stewardship of the earth.

Additionally, a colorful comic book within the game narrates the story of Noah’s Ark, combining entertainment with spiritual learning.

The Power and Responsibility of Digital Media

As digital media becomes foundational in the spiritual lives of the new generation, Load the Ark demonstrates the potential of interactive experiences to create immersive, educational and spiritually enriching content.

Indeed, the constant stream of digital information can lead to overstimulation and distraction, making it difficult to focus on spiritual practices. The team at DayStar Media Labs emphasizes the importance of finding balance, setting aside dedicated time for unplugged spiritual practices, as Psalm 46:10 reminds us, "Be still, and know that I am God."

“Digital media has become foundational in the spiritual lives of the new generation,” Melniciuc said. “It presents extraordinary opportunities for accessing spiritual content and connecting with faith communities. As we adopt these digital tools, we need to be conscious of their effects on our focus and time.”

A Call for Support

The members of DayStar Media Labs, who now reside in various cities in western Washington and actively utilize their interactive media, game
development, and artistic skills both professionally and personally, have developed the first three levels of “Load the Ark” but need community support to complete the remaining five levels.

While the game is free to download, Melniciuc stressed the importance of social media support to reach more audiences, “By downloading the game and sharing it with friends and family, you can help us spread the message and values of the Bible through engaging and educational gameplay.”

The organization aims to continue creating content that positively impacts the spiritual lives of many. “As 3 John 1:4 says, ‘I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.’ That’s what we’re striving for — helping others walk in the truth, even in the digital world,” Melniciuc said.

Experience how Load the Ark offers a unique fusion of faith, education and entertainment to offer a beacon of light in the vast sea of digital content. Download “Load the Ark” at loadtheark.com/download and connect with Load the Ark across social media platforms.

Auburn Adventist Academy regrets to announce the passing of incoming principal Ken Smith.

Smith planned to join the Washington Conference education team from his 11-year tenure in Wisconsin Conference. As a seasoned educator, he had experience in all grade levels of teaching, as well as elementary and secondary administration. Close to his heart: high school academics.

While in Wisconsin, Smith served three schools: Milwaukee Seventh-day Adventist School, Green Bay Adventist Junior Academy and Wisconsin Academy.

In a career legacy tribute from June 4, 2024, Wisconsin Conference noted their respect for his career, how his team called him the “finest administrator they had ever worked with,” and how educators felt listened to and empowered.

“One of his areas of strength is campus facility improvement,” they wrote. “In all three schools, Smith has left each looking better than the way he found it. His accomplishments ranged from beautifying the campus to major maintenance projects.”

Some local volunteers valued Smith so much, Wisconsin Conference said, that when they replaced the old foot bridge across the Crawfish River, the new bridge was named "Ken's Crossing" in his honor.

Over his career, Smith taught on every level of education from first grade to college in schools from Alaska to Florida and was an administrator of small schools and junior academies for 27 years. He also spent 12 years teaching at two Adventist boarding academies, Forest Lake Academy in Florida and Valley Grande Academy in Texas.

Smith held a Bachelor of Arts in religion with certifications to teach religion, history, educational technology and elementary education.

Smith had initially planned to retire from Wisconsin Academy at the end of this last school year. He intended to retire in Idaho to be closer to family. However, Washington Conference called with an invitation to serve at AAA.

In an introductory interview for his upcoming role at AAA, Smith said, “My primary goal, the reason we run Adventist schools, is to introduce kids to Christ. We create our next group of leaders.”

Smith was en route to Washington when he experienced a medical emergency. Given the severity of his illness, he alerted academy and conference leaders that he was not able to serve as the next principal.

The AAA personnel committee met late last week to discuss the best steps for moving forward for the academy and asked Michelle Wachter, Washington Conference vice president for education, to serve as principal. She will add AAA responsibilities to her current work portfolio.

“Please keep the Smith family in your prayers,” Wachter requested. “It has been a privilege to hear more about the love and dedication Smith had for Adventist Education for many decades through stories the family shared with me this week. Even when he was very sick in the hospital, Smith asked how things were going at the academy for getting ready for this upcoming school year. In the short time I had the honor of getting to know him, it was evident that he was a man of integrity, a prayer warrior and a cheerleader for students.”

Dear Northwest Adventist readers,

A year ago, I began a sacred new chapter of interacting with readers through our bimonthly Gleaner magazine, a weekly e-newsletter, the NWAdventists.com website and our @NWAdventists social accounts. It’s been a good year of growth, discovery and learning.

As we continue this journey together, the NW Adventists editorial team wants to give you the chance to share your thoughts about how you interact and engage with our publications. My mentors taught me a few years ago about the value of making data-driven decisions, and this is where your insights become invaluable.

Reader surveys are crucial for us to understand your preferences, improve content quality and identify demographic trends. They help us enhance your reading experience by tailoring content to better meet your needs and interests. Your feedback directly informs our editorial decisions, ensuring that our publications remain relevant and engaging.

Our team has a lot of questions we want to ask you, but we’ve narrowed it down to 15 questions that should take you 5 minutes or less to complete. There will be more surveys in the future for additional questions!

This survey is designed to gather your feedback to help us continually enhance NW Adventist publications, including the beloved Gleaner magazine. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts, preferences and needs with the NW Adventists editorial team! Your input not only helps us track changes over time but also supports our efforts to innovate and improve.

The priority deadline for completing this survey is before or by Nov. 1, 2024. We love hearing from you via emails, letters and phone calls, so please continue to reach out whenever you are ready to share. Our email is talk@nwadventists.com. Your voice is essential in ensuring our publications continue to thrive.

Here's where you can take the survey right now! Click the button below to get started!

Gleaner Reader Survey 2024

On behalf of our editorial team and with appreciation for you as our readers,

Heidi Baumgartner

NPUC communication director and Gleaner editor

It was a busy weekend in July 2024 at Gladstone Park as families began to arrive for the first Lift Jesus Higher event. 

Parents and grandparents found shady spots for their blankets and camp chairs, watched as kids made enormous bubbles and joined them on a nature-themed scavenger hunt and at a kite-making station. Many cooled off with a popsicle before gathering in the amphitheater for an inspirational word from Rose Andrykanus, Sunnyside Adventist Church associate pastor.

The weekend continued to lean into interconnected community culture as Pathfinders hosted a car wash and fired up the Snack Shack kitchen for two busy days of serving pronto pups, veggie burgers, kettle corn, ice cream and more in one final fundraiser for the upcoming trip to Gillette, Wyoming. 

A steady stream of hungry visitors stopped by for tasty food, lingering at picnic tables to reunite with old friends and meet new ones. Customers perused rows of tables hosting this year’s ABC used book sale in Zull Hall, while others headed to the ABC to catch the "summer sale at camp meeting prices." 

Pathfinders were able to raise more than $19,000 in two days between the Snack Shack, Sunday car wash and donations, with the largest single tip being a $100 bill for a single bag of kettle corn! 

“We were opening at 10 a.m., but we had customers that are usually camp meeting volunteers in line waiting at 9 a.m. on Sunday,” laughed Sandi Carpenter, Snack Shack coordinator and Willamette district associate Pathfinder coordinator. 

“The memorable sale of the fundraiser, though, was selling 30 packages of 10 pronto pups in one sale! Patricia Jackson came early on Sunday and placed her order," shared Carpenter. "When she came to pick it up she told us it wasn’t for any special occasion. It was for her family. Her son figured out he could have three Pronto Pups a week!”

“We just want to say thank you to everyone who came to contribute," said Carpenter. "We hope everyone had at least a little taste of camp meeting to last until next year!”

North Pacific Union Association has reopened the Revolving Fund for a limited time for donors to make missional investments.

“The Revolving Fund allows us to provide economical building and capital improvement loans to Pacific Northwest churches and schools,” explained Jay Graham, association treasurer.

In 2023, the association approved 11 loans worth over $3.5 million. As of June 30, 2024, there are currently 83 active loans worth $22.7 million.

A sampling of active loans include:

• Samoan Tokelau Adventist Church in Washington Conference who received approval for a loan for the purchase of property for their church.
• Pasco Riverview Adventist Church in Upper Columbia Conference who received approval for a loan to build a fellowship hall.
• Tillamook Adventist Church in Oregon Conference who received approval for a loan to replace their roof.

“The Revolving Fund provides a mechanism to support the local church and school communities,” Graham shared. “We call investments in the Revolving Fund missional, as the current deposit interest rate is 2.25%, yet these investments have eternal impact.”

If you are interested in investing in the Revolving Fund to help more churches and schools, please call Jay Graham, during business hours from Monday through Thursday, at 360-857-7000. Graham can walk you through more of the finer details of your missional investment opportunities.

One note of significance for new depositors: to start up a new account, you need to be at least 18 years old and be a member of an Adventist church within NPUC territory and live within this same territory in order to deposit monies into the fund.

“The Revolving Fund will remain open for new investments until our specific allotment is reached,” Graham noted. “Thank you for your interest in helping churches and schools grow and thrive in the communities they serve.”

More than 1,400 people attended the 2024 Upper Columbia Conference Camp Meeting, held June 19–22 on the campus of Upper Columbia Academy. The theme was “Christ Our Living Hope,” and Ty Gibson, Light Bearers co-director and Storyline Adventist Church pastor in Eugene, Oregon, was the main speaker.

“Gibson kicked off our camp meeting on Wednesday night, threw it into high gear and kept the momentum going the whole weekend,” said Dustin Jones, UCC communications director and camp meeting event coordinator. “He challenged all of us with our preconceived notions of Adventism, made our sides hurt with laughter and, through it all, kept pointing us to Christ, our living hope.”

Ben Orian, Arkansas-Louisiana Conference media director, presented the mid-morning programs in the big tent and presented seminars on Thursday and Friday. Orian’s focus was on church revitalization and engagement.

There were programs for kids throughout the weekend. When the kids weren’t learning more about God and making new friends, they had plenty of time to enjoy the bouncy castles and games on the lawn.

On Friday, several groups left campus to engage in service projects in the communities around UCA.

Richie Brower, Serve One More initiative associate director, arranged for the projects, including a major removal of overgrowth on one individual’s property.

Brower presented before and after photos of the project during the Sabbath program, along with a video featuring all the work that went into the project the day before.

“The before and after photos of the property were amazing,” reported Jones. “As the teams worked in each community, you felt a real sense of fellowship and mission.”

The Sabbath afternoon concert was presented by Selah, a musical group that has won 11 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and has more than 900 million streams across all digital music platforms.

Among the highlights of the concert was the final song. As Selah led the crowd in singing “Amazing Grace,” the group quietly left the stage and let the audience finish the song a cappella.

“It was truly a meaningful moment,” said Jones. “We all stood there with our eyes closed, singing ‘Amazing Grace’ and praising God. What a blessing!”

The final program for camp meeting was presented by David Jamieson, UCC president. Jamieson presented “Go With God,” based on the story of the prodigal son.

Jamieson challenged the audience to reach out to others in humility and love. As he closed, he shared a few lines from Selah’s song, “Benediction," ending with the phrase, "As you go, go with God. Go in peace!"

With those final words, Selah came onto the stage and sang the song.

“I spoke with Selah earlier in the day, and they related to me how meaningful it was to sing that song for camp meeting,” said Jones. “It was a beautiful way to end our time together.”

To watch the big tent programs and the concert, go to uccsda.org/campmeeting. 

Hispanic ministries leaders in Oregon Conference believe that youth ministry leaders play a crucial role in shaping the spiritual lives of young people. In May, Oregon Conference Hispanic ministries sponsored RED Jovenes at Holden Convention Center in Gladstone — an event designed to empower youth leaders to connect better with young people.

RED is an acronym for redimir, entrenar y discipular — redeem, train and disciple. RED Jovenes was one of three annual events put together by the Hispanic ministries team to equip youth leaders. This year, more than 100 youth ministry leaders attended.

Leaders play a crucial role in creating safe spaces that foster community and growth for young people. This year’s theme, "Discipleship," was broken down into three phases for the event: rooted, planted and fruitful. Jason Calvert, Oregon Conference youth ministries associate director, filled the role of keynote speaker and seminar presenter, sharing insights on discipling Gen Z.

RED Jovenes encouraged leaders to continue to grow and lead through great keynotes and seminars sharing practical tools to engage their youth. Leaders also connected with each other, building relationships over great food. Discipleship is about relationships after all.  A group of adults from different churches came together and made fresh pupusas. 

Youth leaders are on the frontline of spiritual transformation. These events equip them with the tools, inspiration and community they need to impact young lives. They're not just organizing events, they're influencing lives for eternity. Join Oregon Conference in continuing to pray for, invest in, support and empower the next generations.

In a series of services in the spring, five people were newly ordained into pastoral ministry, each bringing unique journeys and experiences to their new roles. Pastors Daniel Bennett, Jordan Stephan, Ruslan Spitsyn, Vidal Mendoza and Abner Campos have answered God’s call to serve their communities and congregations with faith and devotion. Each pastor has followed a unique path guided by their commitment to God and a desire to make a positive impact.

Daniel Bennett

Bennett first felt the call to preach in his teens while attending Church of God in Christ in Tacoma. He joined the military after high school and served overseas for eight years. While stationed in Germany, Bennett committed his life to Jesus and began preaching. After three of his siblings had been converted to the Adventist Church, Bennett could no longer deny the seventh day Sabbath. Bennett earned his Master of Divinity degree in 2015 and was called to be a full-time pastor in 2019. He was ordained on April 27, 2024.

Jordan Stephan

Stephan was raised in a pastoral family. Through conversations, opportunities and experiences, God clarified the pastoral path in his life. Stephan began his pastoral work as the Kirkland Adventist Church associate pastor. He earned his Master of Divinity in 2022 and moved back to Washington to be the North Cascade Adventist Church associate pastor. When the senior pastor moved at the end of that year, Stephan stepped into the role. He was ordained on May 25, 2024.

Ruslyn Spitsyn

At 19 years old, Spitsyn accepted Jesus and was baptized in 2007. He became an active church member through leading the youth group and teaching Sabbath School. Spitsyn was invited to be an intern pastor of the Dnipro churches in Ukraine in 2010. He earned his master’s degree in religious studies in 2018. Spitsyn accepted the call to Washington in 2023 to serve in the Center for Spiritual Enrichment. He was ordained on June 1, 2024.

Vidal Mendoza

Mendoza was raised in the Adventist Church. After earning a bachelor’s degree in administration, he felt the call to be a pastor. He was hired as a part-time Bible worker for Lakewood Spanish Adventist Church and White Center Spanish Adventist Church. In 2018, Mendoza was hired as a full-time pastor for Federal Way Hispanic Adventist Church. At the end of 2023, he was called to serve as Enumclaw Adventist Church pastor. Mendoza is now working towards a Ph.D. in leadership. He was ordained on June 8, 2024.

Abner Campos

A student-led week of worship in high school guided Campos to realize his need for God. He began studying the Bible and fell in love with Jesus. He then got involved in local churches and schools. At the end of high school, he followed his pastoral call and studied theology. Campos completed his Master of Divinity in 2021 and moved to Seattle to begin his ministry at Volunteer Park Adventist Church. He was ordained on June 15, 2024.

The recent ordinations of Bennett, Stephan, Spitsyn, Mendoza and Campos are powerful reminders of the diverse ways in which individuals are called to ministry. Each pastor’s journey underscores the transformative power of faith. As these five pastors step into their roles as ordained pastors, they bring with them a wealth of life experiences and deep commitment to their congregations. Their ordinations are a celebration of their faith journeys and a promise of continued spiritual growth and leadership.

In 2014, Wrangell Church, situated on a small island in southeast Alaska, formed a Vacation Bible School team to reach the children of Bethel. The mission initiative has now become an annual event, marking 10 consecutive years of outreach to Alaskan youth.

The town of Wrangell is home to a little more than 2,100 residents. Within this community stands Wrangell Church, established in June 1966, with a current membership of 41. Despite its small size and remote location, this church has made a significant impact in Alaska.

Over the years, the VBS group has held programs in Bethel, Craig, Ketchikan and Wrangell. This year the team, led by Brooke Reynolds, VBS coordinator, returned to Bethel.

The theme of this year's VBS was, "The Good Shepherd," drawing inspiration from the parables of Jesus and Christ's Object Lessons. Although it was one of the smallest VBS teams, with a group of volunteers they successfully reached out to numerous children. Due to the team's size, they involved the children in the storytelling process by using puppets. Each child received a puppet character and the story was acted out by the children participating.

In addition to daily stories, games, crafts and snacks, the Wrangell team added unique elements to their VBS, such as providing a giveaway book and a prayer tree. This year, they selected God Said It: The Stories Of Jesus — book 12 by Bradley Booth. Children received this book upon registration and had the opportunity to contribute to the prayer tree by writing down their prayer requests or praises, which were then prayed for each day.

With each VBS experience, the team gains insights on how to enhance future outreach efforts. Nevertheless, three fundamental principles hold true: VBS doesn't need to be elaborate, it's not as challenging as it may seem and, most importantly, it can be incredibly enjoyable! 

If you feel inspired to create your own VBS, Wrangell offers a blog with free materials and themes for your use. Explore more at wrangellsda.org/diy-vacation-bible-school.

Did you know that smoking was once acceptable on airplanes? It wasn’t until the 1980s that health advocates convinced Congress to make legislation to ban in-flight smoking.

If someone tried to smoke on a plane now, they would be fined and chastised by flight attendants and passengers alike. It wasn’t always this way. In 1971, United Airlines was the first company to make a nonsmoking section.¹

On planes, trains and automobiles, smoking was common everywhere. I remember growing up in the 1990s and experiencing secondhand smoke frequently in restaurants.

Today in the Pacific Northwest, there is no smoking permitted in all indoor workspaces. Alaska was the most recent state to pass such legislation in 2018.² As of 2024, 28 states have a total indoor smoking ban.³

I am thankful for the laws that have enabled these protections for our collective health and well-being. Smoking on a plane was once ubiquitous, but now it is unthinkable. It got me thinking, what else in our society and church is like that?

This Gleaner issue is focused on women in pastoral ministry. I am thankful for that. I am thankful that the Adventist Church is especially set up to lead the way in honoring God’s call in the lives of women.

Our foremost pioneer was Ellen White. She was named by Smithsonian Magazine among the 100 Most Significant Americans of All Time.⁴

According to the Ellen G. White Estate, “She is the most translated woman writer in the entire history of literature, and the most translated American author of either gender.”⁵ Now don’t miss this: Ellen White, the primary founder of the Adventist Church, was — drum roll please — a lady!

At the time of her death in 1915, women still did not have the right to vote in America. That would not come until five years later.

Some years ago, I remember being approached by a member of my congregation. He wanted to talk about one of my sermons. He thought I was being too “political.”

During that conversation, he asked me, “Do you know where this country went wrong?” I said, “I am not sure.” He looked me in the eyes and said with all seriousness, “It’s when we gave women the right to vote!”

While I disagreed with him, it was obvious to me this wasn’t the kind of conversation where either of us would change our mind.

In 1920, white women were given the right to vote thanks to the 19th Amendment. That did not come for Black women until 45 years later, when the Voting Rights Act passed in 1965. This finally gave all women the right to vote.

The thought of going back to a time when only white men could vote is shameful. Is it possible that we will look back at anything else with similar embarrassment?

In 2015, secular headlines across the country declared, “Seventh-day Adventists vote against female ordination.”⁶

I had just come back from seminary at the time of the vote. I thought of my female colleagues. All of them had stories about how God called them to pastoral ministry. All of them had stories of discrimination based on gender, yet they went forward hoping that their calling would be legitimized by the denomination they loved.

I was hopeful in 2015 that progress would be made. I went to that General Conference in San Antonio hoping to see history made.

I was optimistic that Fundamental Belief 14, about equality for all, would find fulfillment in recognizing that both men and women can be called to pastoral ministry.

Instead, the church voted to continue a gender-based distinction in the role of pastoral ministry. Women can be commissioned, but not ordained. This often means not having the same pastoral rights to go along with the role.

There are privileges that come with ordination. Ordination and commissioning services look the same. The same prayers are said, but there are some important differences to recognize.

For example, commissioned pastors are ineligible to become presidents of conferences, unions, divisions or the General Conference. 

In most conferences, a commissioned pastor is excluded from organizing a church or ordaining local elders and deacons. Additionally, the commissioned pastor must seek authorization from the conference to perform weddings and baptisms outside the district. Furthermore, an ordained pastor carries the privilege of global ministry access while a commissioned pastor's rights are limited to the conference that hired them.

All this sends the message to those who have been commissioned that their status is less valuable in the eyes of the hierarchy of the church.

Both men and women go to seminary with the expectation that they will be given an equal opportunity in their career trajectory as pastors. However, the way the system is currently set up is clearly biased towards men.

Ordination acts like a magical key that unlocks the top levels of leadership and opportunities globally within the church. Ordination gives the religious terminology and moral authority to sanctify discrimination.

Words matter. This is why we keep sharing the stories of women in pastoral ministry. Imagine if at the General Conference session in 2015, the church would have recognized that God's calling to pastoral ministry lands on all pastors — both men and women. Imagine if instead of judging the fitness for pastoral ministry based on outward appearance, we had made that decision based on heart and character.

Now, almost a decade later, I am still hopeful that there will come a time when all churches choose pastors based on their qualifications and calling as opposed to their gender.

I hope we will look back on this time of discrimination the way we look back at the time before women were given the right to vote. I hope there will come a time when the thought of not ordaining someone because of their gender will be like smoking on a plane — an unimaginable idea.
 

Sources:

1. Allan M. Brandt, The Cigarette Century: The Rise, Fall and Deadly Persistence of the Product that Defined America (New York: Basic Books, 2007), 303–304.
2. “Alaska’s Smokefree Workplace Law,” Alaska Department of Health, accessed July 23, 2024, health.alaska.gov/dph/Chronic/Pages/Tobacco/SmokefreeWorkplace/FAQ.aspx.
3. “State System Smokefree Indoor Air Fact Sheet,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accessed July 23, 2024, cdc.gov/statesystem/factsheets/sfia/SmokeFreeIndoorAir.html.
4. “Ellen G. White Named 100 Most Significant Americans of All Time,” Loma Linda University Del E. Webb Memorial Library, accessed July 23, 2024, library.llu.edu/about/library-news/ellen-g-white-named-100-most-significant-americans-of-all-time.
5. “Ellen G. White — A Brief Biography,” Ellen G. White Estate, accessed July 23, 2024, whiteestate.org/about/egwbio/#faq797ba558-8707-4946-8906-27e67df7252a.
6. M. Boorstein, “Seventh-Day Adventist Vote Against Female Ordination,” The Washington Post, accessed July 23, 2024, washingtonpost.com/local/social-issues/seventh-day-adventists-vote-against-female-ordination/2015/07/08/42920f7e-25c8-11e5-b77f-eb13a215f593_story.html.

Each year my family participates in the annual Native American Canoe Journey. My dad, Brian Cladoosby, purchased a 14-person canoe — the Salmon Dancer — so that we could attend each year. How long we will travel depends on the tribe that hosts. 

My husband, Tyler, and our kids have attended:

2010: Paddle to Makah
2011: Paddle to Swinomish
2012: Paddle to Squaxin
2016: Paddle to Nisqually
2017: Paddle to We Wai Kai and Wei Wai Kum (Campbell River, British Columbia)
2018: Paddle to Puyallup
2019: Paddle to Lummi
2023: Paddle to Muckleshoot

We are getting ready to start Paddle to Puyallup Youth Canoe Journey 2024. It’s important for Tyler and I to involve our kids in Coast Salish culture and get to know our large extended family. The Canoe Journey is a place for my kids to understand ceremony, traditions and cultural identity. I want them to understand and appreciate the Coast Salish culture that has sustained my people for countless centuries.

Through the years, we have had exciting experiences and difficulties at this annual drug/alcohol-free traditional event. Whether it’s canoeing for many days or driving as ground crew to set up camp, it’s long days in the summer sunshine. But, we get to visit our Coast Salish people, spend time with family, experience our unique culture, sing, dance, eat, laugh, pray and shop Indigenous artists. 

The Canoe Journey is a lot like faith — and I’ve been thinking about how this experience mirrors faith development in three specific ways: community, navigation and endurance.

Community

When you’re with your canoe family for two weeks or more, paddling and camping, it takes a great effort, trust and support. This community building gives us strength — more than we thought we had. That’s a lot like a faith community. We need each other in this faith journey.

Gal. 6:2 tells us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Navigation

I usually help my mom, Nina Cladoosby, on the ground crew, driving the miles with camping gear and food. For me, navigating the roads is much simpler than navigating the waters, but we all need good navigation to get us to our destination. Similarly, we all need guidance and support from mentors and scriptures to help us navigate our faith journey. We cannot do it alone. Good navigation gives us clear direction.

Prov. 3:5 tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

Endurance

Paddling 10 or more hours each day requires persistence and endurance. There are a few days when I will get on the canoe and those are the two- to four-hour legs of the journey. It’s hard work to paddle in the Salish Sea. Maintaining your faith journey — especially in difficult times — requires endurance as well. You must paddle hard through those rough waters — in the Canoe Journey and your faith journey.

James 1:2–4 tells us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

The time spent paddling on the water, gives you quiet, peaceful time to reflect spiritually. Whether it’s the importance of community, clear navigation or endurance to push through — it’s all a journey. We just need to stay on course and keep the faith. These are the things I am learning through the Canoe Journey — and that I am teaching my kids. We need community, navigation and endurance to reach our goal.

Changes are happening on the Gladstone Park Conference Center grounds. In July, crews arrived to begin the preparations for the new Gladstone Pavilion.

In February 2023, Oregon Conference executive committee voted to move forward with the Gladstone Pavilion, a project that would provide a permanent roof over the main seating area for Gladstone Camp Meeting. This action represents a significant commitment and investment in the future of camp meeting in Oregon Conference.

While the financial picture has changed in Oregon Conference over the past number of months, the project is continuing for some good reasons:

• The cost of the project will be completely funded by income from Oregon Conference’s ownership stake in Somerset Lodge. Years ago, the conference invested land at the north end of Gladstone Campgrounds in a retirement community that became Somerset. This income from that ownership stake is separate from tithe and does not impact the conference operating budget. It has been designated to maintain and enhance the Gladstone Park grounds. The income will be more than sufficient to pay back the building loan ahead of schedule.
• Once completed, the pavilion project will save $75,000 or more in camp meeting operating costs each year. These savings reduce the tithe funding required to operate the camp meeting ministry and allow administration to allocate that funding to pastoral ministry in local churches.
• The new pavilion will create opportunities for larger-scale ministry events throughout the good weather seasons.  

Oregon Conference is blessed by the opportunity to use existing resources to invest in the future of camp meeting, while allocating additional tithe funding to pastoral ministry in local churches. The ministry team is looking forward to July 2025 when everyone can worship together under a new roof.

There’s a quip about how life is 10% what happens to you and 90% about how you react to it. This is particularly true for the Pathfinder experience at this year’s International Pathfinder Camporee which saw a variety of travel adventures, the realities of having 60,000 people gathered in one place and the resiliency before, during and after an intense prairie storm.

​Togiak, Alaska, was selected by Generation of Youth for Christ Northwest as its 2024 mission trip destination. Located 78 miles west of Dillingham and about 400 miles west of Anchorage, Adventists have ministered to the area for more than 50 years.

Although the work waned throughout the years, in 2009 a group of dedicated workers and Arctic Mission Adventure volunteers built a new church and parsonage, established the local radio and television stations, and developed youth and community ministries. Today, the community is served by Todd Parker, Dillingham and Togiak district pastor, and Aaron Dasher, AMA worker.

In June, the GYC Northwest team, led by Hannah Everett of Spokane, Washington, traveled to the village of about 800 residents to paint and renovate the church and parsonage, as well as conduct Vacation Bible School for the village children.

As part of their trip, the young adult group engaged in intentional prayer for the people of Togiak, hoping to have a positive impact on the village while deepening their own relationship with Jesus. Parker appreciated the group’s respectful and hardworking nature.

VBS attracted many children throughout the week. Thanks to a repaired van funded generously by North Pacific Union Native ministries, transportation was provided for the children to attend. The community was blessed by those supporting AMA and the groups that generously dedicate their time, skills and resources to reach Alaska.

In March 2024, a group of 25 volunteers from Palisades Christian Academy did construction work on a project in Peru with Maranatha Volunteers International, a supporting ministry of the Adventist Church. The volunteer team laid the block walls of a church building for the Villa Jesus Adventist congregation in the city of Pucallpa. 

Having formed in 2011, this church family endured years of worshiping in cramped homes and nearly dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. The congregation’s current 85 members will soon have a brand new, spacious church building, thanks to Maranatha and its volunteers.

The team from PCA, located in Spokane, Washington, included 13 students and 12 adults. Their passion for service bridged the age gap, blending members into a cohesive and efficient unit. The group worked so well together that they finished the church building’s walls a couple of days early — just in time to meet another important need.

For the duration of the trip, several team members led a Vacation Bible School program, which proved very popular among local children. “On the very day the building team finished the church, the VBS team returned, wondering how they could properly provide for more children, as 100 had joined by day six,” recalled Ruth Lenz, PCA teacher and Peru project coordinator. 

The construction team provided the extra hands necessary to accommodate more than 120 kids on the second to last VBS day and more than 140 on the final day. “The children responded exceptionally well to our VBS team,” said Lenz. “They loved our students and adults so much that many children and parents arrived an hour early so they could spend more time socializing.”

The VBS program also made a special impact on Audrey Staben, PCA freshman. “While I was working on the VBS site, I was pretty shy at first because I’m not super good with new people, and there was also a huge language barrier,” recalled Staben.

Staben was able to step out of her comfort zone and form strong connections with the local children. “As we started to become closer and closer to the end of the trip, I definitely grew a lot. I wasn't feeling as shy with them,” Staben said. “On the last day, it was sad because I was going to miss the kids a lot. I wish we could visit them again.”

Maranatha mobilizes volunteers to build churches, schools, water wells and other urgently needed structures around the world. In addition to projects open to the public, Maranatha helps church and school groups organize their own mission trips at no additional cost. Since 1969, Maranatha volunteers and crews have constructed more than 14,000 structures and more than 3,000 water wells in nearly 90 countries.

Camp meeting is a time to unite as one big family to worship God.

On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, Mount Ellis Academy's campus came to life as church family members arrived for Montana Conference Camp Meeting. This year's theme was "Come, Rest Awhile," based on the story in the book of Mark when Jesus told His followers to rest from their busy ministries. 

John Bradshaw, It Is Written president, shared relevant messages for Adventists to be sure of their salvation and to be filled with the Holy Spirit daily as they walk in the newness of life.

Terry Johnsson, Adventist Health Portland mission integration executive, shared his unreal testimony of how God placed him in the honor guard to serve under three different U.S. presidents. The audience was captivated by miracle after miracle God performed to intervene in someone's life. Johnsson ended his session by praying for anyone who wanted to surrender their big obstacle to God and for God to do something miraculous in their situation.

One thing that makes Montana Conference Camp Meeting unique is the wholistic living workshops. The number of offered workshops was doubled compared to last year. 

Yes, people could sit in an auditorium all day listening to various speakers, but the desire is to enhance the quality of life. Some of this year's workshops included learning how to study the Bible, digital evangelism, marriage and family, metal detecting, watercolors and plant-based cooking. 450 people attended more than 30 workshops in just two days.

The Chow Court was a new addition this year. It was created to help Pathfinder clubs and schools raise money for the International Pathfinder Camporee, building projects or class trips. It gave the cafeteria a break, allowing people to choose various foods. Falafel bowls, burgers, chimichangas, acai bowls and poutine were just a few of the items to choose from. Everything was delicious! The most challenging part of mealtime was deciding what to eat.

The children's division focused on the "Armor of God," while the earliteen division discovered "God's Great Adventure." The youth division was led by the Here I Am Send Me 360 team again this year, and their theme was "The Greatest Love." The youth also spent time doing street evangelism in downtown Bozeman.

Saturday evening closed out the weekend with another unique addition, Montana's Got Praise. This program featured musical talent from church members across the state. It was such a rich program of praise and worship that it could be an ongoing tradition.

Camp meeting is such a joy. It's a time to come together as one big family to worship God, to be reminded of our mission, to learn something new and to make lifelong connections. 

Save the date for Montana Conference Camp Meeting 2025 — July 16–19!

As of Aug. 1, 2024, Keith Waters is retiring after 48 years in Adventist Education.

Waters first encountered Adventist education in seventh grade when he attended Pine Tree Academy in Maine. He finished high school at South Lancaster Academy in Massachusetts, where he met Deanna Minty, his future wife.

“I knew Keith could teach early on — from high school — as I watched him interact with my little brother, who was a pesky 10-year-old at the time,” Deanna said. “He was so good to him, let him tag along and was always patient. When we worked together at Camp Winnekeag, I saw his commitment to God grow.”

In 1973, Waters left New England for the first time to serve as a student missionary in Zaire. When he returned to study at Atlantic Union College, he pursued elementary education. Upon graduation, Waters got married and became head teacher at New London School in Connecticut. There, Waters attended summer workshops to develop science curricula for multigrade schools. He took students on nature walks and developed a science museum.

Neil Clauson, Forestdale Christian School principal, remembers Waters as his first-grade teacher. “This was my only year in an Adventist school until I actually became a teacher at an Adventist school in 2001,” Clauson wrote. “I loved that school, and I am so glad I was able to be there. A good seed was definitely planted in my heart!”

In 1985, Waters became Cedar Brook Junior Academy principal in Rehoboth, Massachusetts. There, Waters achieved a master’s degree at Eastern Connecticut State University. Waters also taught biology and earth science, piquing students’ interest with a collection of pet snakes. He enjoyed music and could often be found directing the band with one hand while playing trumpet with the other.

In 1990, Waters accepted the position of associate superintendent at Upper Columbia Conference in Spokane, Washington, where he coordinated the UCC Outdoor School program. In 1995, he became superintendent of education.

Holley Bryant, Walla Walla Valley Adventist Schools head of schools, fondly recalls Waters visiting her third-grade class at Harris Junior Academy in Pendleton, Oregon. Bryant shared, “Throughout my student academic life and my adult academic career, Waters has been a personal cheerleader — always supporting and encouraging me.”

In 2007, Waters accepted the position of North Pacific Union secondary education director. Over the past years, Waters has enjoyed visiting NPUC academies, evaluating schools and attending North American Division curriculum committees. He has enjoyed traveling to Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Dominican Republic and Micronesia.

Debbie Hendrickson, NPUC education certification registrar, said she will miss working with Waters. “He’s probably the kindest, most intuitive person in terms of thinking of others I’ve ever worked for.”

While he looks forward to not having to live by a calendar, Waters plans to continue to support Adventist education even after retirement.

“I’ve enjoyed every aspect of my education career, and I believe it is still a mission,” Waters said. “Over 48 years, I’ve learned to rely on God on a daily basis. I’ve seen so many situations where something can’t happen, and through prayer, God has always provided. Where a church has wanted a school, there has always been a way. If we trust God and follow His will, He will provide for us and for our children.”

Adventist Health Tillamook was recognized in April 2024 by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of 27 critical access hospitals to know in 2024 and one of the top 150 healthcare systems to work for in healthcare.

“We are deeply honored by this recognition highlighting our commitment to providing exceptional healthcare,” said Eric Swanson, Adventist Health Tillamook president. “This recognition comes from our dedicated team’s hard work and the innovative approaches we employ to deliver quality care, enhance community well-being and fulfill our mission of living God’s love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.”

Critical access hospitals are vital components of the overall healthcare delivery system, providing quality care to the residents and visitors of rural areas. These small but mighty organizations work to expand access to specialty care, cut down on patient travel times and improve community health. As part of the recognition selection process, Becker’s Hospital Review examined rankings and awards from several respected organizations, including Healthgrades, National Rural Health Association and Chartis Center for Rural Health.

Adventist Health Tillamook is the only critical access hospital in Oregon to be highlighted by Becker’s in 2024. This recognition underscores the crucial role of the hospital in providing high-quality medical care and fostering a supportive and fulfilling work environment for employees and providers.

For more information about services and careers at Adventist Health Tillamook, visit AdventistHealth.org/Tillamook.

Mission Possible is an effort in western Washington that led to a transformative experience through the power of God.

In the final days of December 2023, Hispanic Adventist churches in Auburn, Kent and Seattle were touched by a powerful movement driven by the Holy Spirit. Gonzalo Reyes and Epitacyo Martins, two students from Peruvian Union University — the Adventist university in Peru — arrived as volunteers with a strong missionary spirit that quickly spread to the three congregations.

Encouraged by the words in 1 John 5:4, "For everyone born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith," Reyes and Martins poured their hearts and souls into impacting the lives of many families. Their dedication and collaboration with local leaders, church members and Yván Balabarca, Auburn, Kent and Seattle Hispanic district pastor, in this missionary experience was truly inspiring.

God used preachers Martins, Oscar Moreno and Luis Carrasco. The weeks of evangelism not only rejuvenated the faith of the church members but also resulted in the blessing of welcoming 30 new souls to Jesus.

Among the touching stories of this campaign, Apolonio's transformation stands out as a testament to God's merciful love. Before his baptism, Apolonio regularly attended Wednesday prayer meetings and Saturday worship services. He was actively involved in small groups and participated in weekly mission visits, always reflecting his encounter with the Lord through his smile and attitude.

Inspired by Acts 2:38, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit," Apolonio joyfully embraced baptism on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Kent Spanish Adventist Church. His baptism not only showed his personal faith in Jesus but also that God works in local communities.

Apolonio's steadfast faith and enthusiastic participation in every church activity serve as a clear example of how divine grace transforms individuals and strengthens the entire community. The story of Apolonio and the success of Mission Possible served as a call for all of us to actively participate in God's mission.

The Hispanic churches of Auburn, Kent and Seattle remain beacons of hope and gathering places for those in search of God's truth and love. May this story inspire many more to join in missionary work. "With God all things are possible" (Matt. 19:26).

Beginning fall 2024, the Walla Walla University Department of Biological Sciences will offer a bachelor of science degree in marine biology. The new program will be one of the few marine biology programs at a private college on the West Coast. 

According to Kirt Onthank, associate professor of biology and Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory director, there are many reasons why WWU is an excellent place to study marine biology. Onthank explained that marine biologists almost always work closely with engineers because marine biology often requires custom-made tools. 

Since WWU has its well-established School of Engineering, marine biology students gain collaboration skills and participate in high-caliber research. Additionally, WWU’s satellite campus at Rosario offers a highly equipped, unique lab location for waterfront education.

Offering this uniquely excellent learning environment at a firmly Adventist college is really special. “WWU is one of only three small private institutions with a marine biology program, a marine laboratory and an engineering program,” said Onthank. “Of those three, WWU is the only one that is religiously affiliated.” If a Christian student is interest in a career in marine biology, Walla Walla University will be the place to pursue that goal.

WWU also has the highest institutional yield ratio among these schools, meaning it is highly successful in preparing students for graduate school. Onthank explained that graduate degrees are essential for those hoping to become marine biologists.

The major will include several new class offerings facilitated by both the Department of Biological Sciences and the School of Engineering. These courses include an introduction to marine sciences, engineering for the life sciences and motorboat operation. The biology department also has four faculty members with specific expertise in areas of marine biology who will teach within the program.

Marine biology students will follow a different schedule during their junior and senior years to allow for more time at Rosario without it being cost-prohibitive. Junior and senior students will study at Rosario during the summer and take spring quarters off instead of a traditional summer break. This will allow financial aid — which is normally limited to three quarters per year — to be applied to summer courses.

Learn more about this new program at wallawalla.edu/biology.

This year’s Oregon Adventist Men’s Chorus annual concert took on a new ring and youthful energy when Portland Adventist Academy’s Bell Canto handbells ensemble became part of the program.

“The inspiration for inviting Bell Canto came from my love for handbells and the variety of ways they can be used,” said Ben Purvis, OAMC director, now retired after 43 years of teaching music and Bible in Adventist schools.

In addition to the 13 handbell ringers, two other PAA students were invited to play solo parts for one piece each — Cory Connell, PAA junior, on oboe and Dannika AuDuong, PAA sophomore, on cello. “AuDuong and Connell were exceptional soloists,” Purvis said, “and really added to the success of the concert.”

Another young musician, Robby Russell, Portland Adventist Elementary School eighth-grade student, played the African djembe drum on two pieces. “Inviting PAA was only natural,” Purvis said, “as I completely support Adventist education and seek to promote it whenever possible.”

“Collaborating with OAMC was one of the highlights of the season for Bell Canto,” enthused John Carter, PAA music department chair and music director.

“Choosing the combination of chorus and handbells was a way of adding variety to our usual program,” Purvis said. “I have used this combination several times in my teaching career. The PAA music program is really developing under the leadership of Carter. With the quality of the program, they were the natural choice for this collaboration."

Bell Canto is one of five of the music department’s ensembles that toured to Adventist schools and churches in Northern California and Central and Southern Oregon in late April 2024.

“It was important for our students to see how music can remain a powerful source of purpose and community in their adult lives,” Carter shared. “I particularly felt it was important for our young students to collaborate musically and spiritually with the seasoned musicians of the OAMC and for OAMC to see that there are still students at PAA who care deeply about making quality music in a sacred setting.”

Now that the pandemic has passed, PAA is experiencing growth in the music programs, especially the Bell Canto ensemble. “Our handbell program has been growing by leaps and bounds,” Carter said, “and this was a banner year for our ensemble. The students worked hard all year on very challenging repertoire and they rose to the occasion.”

Joining OAMC’s mature voices with the youthful ring of Bell Canto’s handbells added another level of worship to the concert. “This cross-generational connection is what music can do best,” Carter said, “bringing two communities together to worship through music.”

Watch the concert on Sunnyside Adventist Church’s YouTube channel here.

The power of “pulling up a chair” is the most important thing I’ve learned about being a hospital chaplain. When I pull up a chair at a patient’s bedside, I send a signal that I care enough about them to sit with them, look them in the eye, hear their story, hold their hand and minister to their spiritual and emotional needs. There is no timetable when I pull up a chair.

For 38 years, I’ve been a youth pastor, dormitory dean, academy Bible teacher, choir director, academy chaplain, college chaplain, university religion teacher, K–12 principal and senior pastor. I thought I had a good grasp on all facets of what it means to be an employee of a faith-based institution. Then I became a hospital chaplain.

I had visited lots of people in the hospital. Isn’t chaplaincy just visiting people in the hospital? What does it mean to minister to patients as a hospital chaplain? Here are a few revelations I’ve had since responding to this new calling.

Each patient room is a unique experience.

As a pastor, when I visited church members in the hospital, I had some frame of reference for who they were — common ground to help me relate to their situation. As a chaplain, when I walk into a patient room, all I know is what's on their chart: physical malady, religious background, age and gender. That’s about it. Most of the time I don’t share a similar religious background with my patients. I don’t know their family or their story or their fears. I don’t know if they want to live or die. All I know is they are a child of God lying in a bed because something has gone wrong with their body.

Leave expectations at the door.

When I bring an agenda into a patient’s room, I don’t see the patient as they need to be seen. If I steer a conversation to a place that makes me comfortable, a patient may wonder if I’ve truly seen or heard them.

I’m not the fix-it guy.

I tend to want to fix problems. When something goes wrong with my car, I fix it. When there’s something wrong in my house, I fix it. You have a problem? I’ve got a solution. It isn’t helpful for a patient when the chaplain thinks they can fix or provide solutions to their problems. Trite solutions, happy catchphrases and religious platitudes do little to help a suffering soul.

Dwelling together in suffering is living God’s love.

When a patient shares their story, they often share deeply rooted mental or spiritual pain. My nature is to steer clear of or fix human suffering. However, when I dwell with patients in dark spaces and allow my suffering to coexist with theirs, healing, understanding and self-compassion can show up in unexpected ways.

When we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, God is with us. To dwell with another in the valley of the shadow of death is to be like Jesus.

Pull up a chair.

I’m tall — 6 feet 6 inches from floor to crown. Early in my chaplaincy journey, I noticed patients would crane their necks to look at me as we talked. I began pulling up a chair next to their bed so we could see eye to eye. I’ve discovered pulling up a chair sends an unexpected sacred message.

All day patients lie in bed as doctors, nurses, CNAs and therapists move in and out of their rooms tending to physical needs. Clinical providers do their jobs with kindness but nearly always in brevity. As a chaplain, I’m the only member of the care team who isn’t there to do a task — I’m not there to measure anything, adjust medication or dress a wound. I’m there to hold space for a soul. So, I pull up a chair.

Where do you need to pull up a chair in your life and with whom?

Sabbaths at Bethel Adventist Church, located in Bethel, Alaska, are always lively. Sabbath, May 4, 2024, was no exception. It was the last day of the four-week It is Written Hope for Humanity evangelistic series, hosted by Alaska Conference live in Anchorage and simulcasted to churches around the state. 

Bethel Church, located 400 miles from Anchorage via plane, tuned into the meetings each night with local church members, community guests and friends as John Bradshaw, It Is Written president, and Wes Peppers, It Is Written evangelism director, explained how Bible prophecies point toward the hope of Jesus’ Second Coming.

By the end of the series, three attendees had made decisions to dedicate their lives to Jesus through baptism. On May 4, John Wassilie, Brooklynn Paukan-Fisher and Sadie Boyscout accepted their baptismal vows and were warmly welcomed into the Bethel Church family. After the church service, there was a bit of a rush to enjoy the weekly fellowship lunch before carpooling to the community pool.

Bethel Church does not have a baptismal pool and instead uses Yukon Kuskokwim Fitness Center for baptisms. Upon entering the pool, church members used slipcovers to cover their shoes or switched to flip flops before gathering at the bleachers at the back of the pool. 

The swimmers stopped at the sides of the pool to watch as the overhead music was temporarily paused so church members could sing “Take Me to the Water.” 

Tobin Dodge, Arctic Mission Adventure director, conducted the baptisms, along with Vecous Waite, former AMA leader, and Phillip Tulik, local ordained elder. After the baptisms were completed, the members returned to the church later that evening for a haystack dinner.

Though the evangelistic series and the baptisms have ended, the newest Bethel Church members continue to join for weekly Bible studies on Daniel and Revelation and other church activities. Wassilie said that finding his new church family was a gift of love from our Heavenly Father.

Please pray for Bethel Church as they seek to share God’s love in the Bethel hub community of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. You can connect with them online at bethelaksda.org or on Facebook @BethelAKSDA. 

Adventist Health is pleased to announce a new name for its regional network of cardiovascular care sites across Oregon. 

Formerly known as Northwest Regional Heart and Vascular, the new name, Adventist Health Northwest Heart Center, more clearly identifies the program’s location and that it is part of the Adventist Health system.

“This is more than a name change,” said Kyle King, Adventist Health Oregon State Network president. “This is a unified program. The new name more accurately and effectively represents the size and scope of the Adventist Health cardiac care program across our network.”

Adventist Health Northwest Heart Center aims to meet the increasing demand for rural access to quality heart care. The center is well known for minimally invasive surgery, treatment of emergent chest pain and advanced cardiac care through interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. The center has locations in Portland, McMinnville, Columbia Gorge and on the Oregon coast.

“Refocusing cardiac services into one statewide service line allows us to better meet this need with coordinated care, supporting patients across all our Oregon sites,” said Fawaz Alhumaid, Adventist Health Northwest Heart Center medical director.

Follow the daily reading plan and you will read the entire Bible in a year.

Aug. 1: Psalm 119:89–176
Aug. 2: Song of Sol. 1–4 

Aug. 4: Prov. 1–9
Aug. 5: Prov. 10–17
Aug. 6: Prov. 18–26
Aug. 7: 2 Chron. 2–4
Aug. 8: 2 Chron. 5–7
Aug. 9: 2 Chron. 8–12

Aug. 11: 2 Chron. 13–18
Aug. 12: Eccl. 1–6
Aug. 13: Eccl. 7–12
Aug. 14: Psalm 134
Aug. 15: Psalm 146–150
Aug. 16: 1 Kings 5–9

Aug. 18: Prov. 27–29
Aug. 19: 1 Kings 10–11
Aug. 20: Prov. 30–31
Aug. 21: 1 Kings 12–14
Aug. 22: 1 Kings 15–19
Aug. 23: 1 Kings 20–22

Aug. 25: Obadiah
Aug. 26: Psalm 82–83
Aug. 27: Song of Sol. 5–8 
Aug. 28: Psalm 136
Aug. 29: 2 Chron. 19–20
Aug. 30: 2 Chron. 21–23

Our Bible reading plan leaves Sabbath as a time to share and reflect on your readings for the week. Find creative ways each Sabbath to share your reflections with others on what God is teaching you from your Bible reading time!

Follow us @NWAdventists on Instagram and Facebook.

Pacific Press and AdventistBookCenter.com have launched a dedicated resource page to support the Pentecost 2025 evangelism initiative. Available at Pentecost2025Resources.com, this curated collection offers essential tools, training materials and evangelistic guides to help members and churches maximize their Pentecost 2025 evangelism efforts.

In Acts 2, Pentecost marked the fulfillment of Jesus Christ’s promise to send the Holy Spirit to empower and guide His disciples. On that day, the church multiplied in number from 120 to 3,000 believers. This historic event serves as a powerful reminder today of the call to engage in mission and evangelism. Believers — members and leaders alike — play a pivotal role in mobilizing for evangelism.

North America’s Pentecost 2025 goal is to hold at least 3,000 proclamation initiatives to teach Christ-centered, biblical truths and to invite people to accept Jesus as their Savior. This year, 2024, is designated as a year of “preparing for Pentecost.” Those eager for the Lord’s promised return take to heart the words of Matthew 24:14: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come."

Pentecost 2025 is for all Adventist churches across North American Division. Every member, pastor, teacher, young adult, student and child is encouraged to participate. The resources available at Pentecost2025Resources.com are designed to inspire, equip and empower believers to share the gospel effectively and to lead impactful proclamation initiatives throughout the division.

Visit the website to explore how these resources can enhance all Pentecost 2025 evangelism efforts.

For more information, visit Pentecost2025Resources.com.

How often do we read a Bible story title, a sermon title or a book title only to make assumptions, form judgments or label someone or something prematurely? Maybe we have bias, prejudices or discriminatory associations that form.

There’s a fascinating story about labels in the Bible, and it’s the well-known story about the parable of the Lost Son. The labeling begins with the humanly inserted header — "The Parable of the Lost Son" — which is intended to give context to the scripture verses that come next with the related biblical story.

The story simply begins, “There was a certain man with two sons.” The title and the story introduction alone should be enough to make us pause. Yet, if we focus on one familiar part, we might miss the full picture.

Frequently, we Christians assume the essence of a story from its title. We think we know it all just from the heading, from prior experience or from different types of associations or connections commonly based on age, gender or ethnicity. We form judgments and ideas resulting in tagging people or situations with labels.

Often, we come to church with these preconceptions, deciding what’s good or bad before we truly understand. Pain and separation are the result of any resulting prejudices or preconceptions we may have. This pulls us apart instead of bringing us together.

When we see the “Lost Son” title, we think we know the story — we assume it’s about a wayward son’s loss and return. However, this parable is about more than just one son. There are two sons of a father, and both are important to the story.

We often divide people into categories — the good son and the bad son. Even if we don’t say it outright, we think it. We often simplify things to one perspective, but Jesus presents both.

Fortunately, God doesn’t categorize us this way as “good” or “bad” children. When you come to the Bible account, you read about the younger son and the older son, both loved equally by the father.

The Lord doesn’t say, “I have one son” or, “I have one daughter,” who behaves best or worst. The Lord says, “I have two types of children: the older and the younger. They are my children. I love them equally.”

Some people will say, “I have 40, 50, 60 or 70 years in the faith.” That’s great for older children who have more life experience with the Father. At the same time, the younger child doesn’t have as much growth experience yet and has the potential to grow more. Both the younger and the older need God’s grace.

The younger and the older are the only difference we should have in the church. We don’t need extra labels or tags. Sometimes, I don’t know which one I am. Maybe I’m the younger sibling or the older sibling, but this doesn’t matter. It’s not about how I behave, but it's about God’s grace that I accept.

With all the sermons and Bible stories shared about the Lost Son through the years, it’s easy for us to revert to our human thinking that the younger son is the wicked son who left his father’s house to live a sinful life and spend his money on prostitutes and wild living.

We call him the joker who wastes his father’s money. We call him the lost son and celebrate his return. We give ourselves the authority to call him lost. We condemn him before reading scripture. He’s condemned, just with the reading of scripture.

And we are condemning a lot of people just with a title, label or tag. Or perhaps with just a glance at skin color or someone’s gender. Maybe we internally condemn someone because of their religious or political affiliation.

In this parable, God shows that both sons are His, regardless of behavior. The difference isn’t about being good or bad, but simply younger or older. This perspective shifts our understanding.

So, who is the Lost Son? Traditionally, we think it’s the younger son who squandered his inheritance, but the parable reveals more. When the younger son returns, he is welcomed by the father, while the older son, though obedient, stands outside, angry and refusing to join the celebration.

In the last part we see, the younger son is inside, reconciled, while the older son remains outside, estranged. We don’t know from the story if the older son ever does go back into the home.

In our lives, how often do we stand outside holding onto judgments and refusing to join the Father’s joy? We must learn not to categorize people as good or bad but to recognize them as God’s children, younger or older. Our worth isn’t determined by behavior but by God’s grace and love.

Let us embrace each other as the Father embraces both sons, recognizing that we are all His children, deeply loved and valued. God sees each person as His son and daughter. It doesn’t matter how we come to Him, we are His.

We should decide to continually come into the Father’s house to take full advantage of everything the Father offers. It’s better to be in the house, instead of near the house. May God help us to be in His house and to not discriminate against anyone in the church. 

At Tualatin Valley Academy, Jennifer Youker, TVA science teacher, works to bring science to life for her sixth-grade students through inventive experiments. 

Youker, a teacher at TVA for 9 years, was inspired to include more hands-on science activities after attending the Excellence in Stem Experiential Education program for teachers in 2016. She remembers a breakout session about the necessity of inspiring a passion for science. 

Attendees were reminded that they never knew which of their students might go on to find the cures for cancer or other diseases still valiantly being fought. Youker took that reminder to heart and decided to help students find joy in science. She started by incorporating more labs into her teaching. 

The ByDesign curriculum that Youker uses supports her desire to make science interactive, providing labs the students can do with each lesson. Students learn how infectious diseases spread by observing the effects a rotten apple has on other apples in close contact. One part of this experiment involves removing the skin of an apple with sandpaper and then rubbing it against the rotten apple. They also rub two apples with their peel intact against the rotten one and then clean one with soap and water and the other with rubbing alcohol. 

According to Youker, the students noticed that if the apple “didn’t have any cuts in it” they largely remained unaffected by the rotting apple. Through experiments like these, they begin to draw connections to the importance of the skin in protecting our bodies against disease. 

Other science activities the students have done include placing eggs in various solutions to learn about osmosis, worm composting and building DNA strands with Twizzlers, marshmallows and toothpicks. One of the favorite labs this year was the dissection of a chicken wing. For many students, this was their first opportunity to dissect an animal. 

Several of Youker’s students enjoy the hands-on science activities. “I like all the science stuff because it gives us a break from reading from the science textbook,” shared a student. Another stated, “For me personally, I don't really like science, but Mrs. Youker makes it really fun to do.” 

It appears Youker is accomplishing her goal of making learning about science fun. This solid foundation in science is valuable to helping students develop inquisitive minds — a trait that will serve them well throughout their educational career and beyond!

The Workforce for Student Well-Being Initiative is offering a conditional scholarship for Master of Social Work students at Walla Walla University. The deadline for students applying for the scholarship is July 23, 2024. WSW is preparing social workers for work in high-need public and tribal schools and is advancing the careers of skilled social work professionals through training, mentorship and financial support.

This program offers an opportunity to earn up to $30,000 to offset master’s degree expenses. Applicants must be accepted into the WWU Master of Social Work program, demonstrate a passion for school mental health and be committed to working in high-need public or tribal schools in Washington following graduation.

WSW scholars will be placed in high-need public or tribal schools during their practicum and will develop competencies to become school-based social workers who provide mental health services through pre-service training with peers across the state. They will build a network among like-minded professionals, earn their Educational Staff Associate certificates and receive career placement support to take leadership roles.

Less than half of Washington state K–12 students in need of mental health services receive the care they need. The WSW Initiative aims to help address this problem by increasing the numbers, skills and diversity of school mental health practitioners.

Washington state was recently awarded $6 million from the U.S. Department of Education to create a pipeline from Washington’s five accredited Master in Social Work training programs to its K–12 schools. One hundred aspiring school social workers will receive conditional scholarships based on their financial needs, removing cost barriers to earning an advanced degree and committing to work in high-need public or tribal schools.

For additional information and to apply, visit wswinitiative.org. To learn more about the Master of Social Work program at WWU, visit wallawalla.edu/MSW.