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| | | The 1998 Conference Crier | | |
| | | Editors: Linda and Bob Harris | | |
| | | E-mail delivery: Dave Taylor | | |
| | | Web page setup: Joel Osborn | | |
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Monday's Conference Crier
Date: Mon, 27 Jul 1998
Conference opens 186th session with Sunday evening Parade of Banners
What an exciting moment it was when Seventh Day Baptists from all over
this continent and some others gathered for worship in Wesley Chapel Sunday
evening, July 26. President John Bevis called the 1998 session of the
Seventh Day Baptist General Conference to order and announced the theme for
the week, "A Chosen Generation" (1 Peter 2:9). He pointed to the logo
created by Patricia Cruzan that will be displayed before us throughout the
week.
President Bevis shared with us that thirty years ago he became a Seventh
Day Baptist and soon was invited to become a professor is Salem College. He
paid tribute to Dr. K. D. Hurley then president of Salem College, who would
later share in leading evening worship.
President Bevis said, "In my mind, he will always be president of Salem
College." Bevis then asked those to stand who had "survived" his history
courses when he began teaching at Salem College, and then asked those to
stand who had been affliated with Salem College in any way throughout the
years.
President Bevis expressed his desire for this conference session that it
might be a time of spiritual refreshment and renewal and that we as a
conference would "invite" the Holy Spirit into our midst.
Dale Thorngate, pastor of the Salem Seventh Day Baptist Church and chariman
of the Conference Host Committee, gave announcements and reported that, as
of that evening, 697 people had preregistered for Conference. Although not
all of those people have arrived, this promises to be one of the largest
Conferences ever.
Following the announcements, a parade of banners made its way to the front
of Wesley Chapel, where each bearer announced the church from which the
banner came. Then the banners were carried down the center aisle for all to
see. The banners will be hung from the balconies to add to the worship
atmosphere of the Conference sessions.
The touring singing group, Stained Glass, provided the transition into the
worship service with two a cappella songs, providing a foretaste of their
concert and vespers later in the week.
The prelude was a flute and piano solo by Jayne Geske and Lanette Calhoun.
Linda Lawton provided special music.
In Dr. Dale Thorngate's keynote sermon on the conference theme, he
reminded us of many Biblical people God had chosen to be His special
servants. They were not called from royalty, but were just regular folks
who knew and trusted God. All responded to God's call without knowing how
or where God would use them. Each one had his human imperfections, but each
one had a burning concern for the welfare of God's people.
To be chosen of God means we are a people who belong to God, Dr. Thorngate
told us. A person who belongs to God can no longer be an ordinary person.
Each person is chosen, "that you may be to the glory of God." God has
chosen Seventh Day Baptists for something important, something special; He
has chosen us to do something new. Seventh Day Baptist have a great
heritage, but that is only a foundation on which we can build a "new
thing."
Dr. Thorngate concluded by making a recommendation that we call an "action
group" to review who we are and where we have been, but especially to
consider who and what God wants us to be and do. He called us to a new
vision, a new sense of mission, a new desire to do and be what God wants us
to do and be, and a new sense of the presence and empowering of the Holy
Spirit as we prepare to enter a new century to the glory of God.
Monday Bible study focuses on 'Chosen to Serve'
Led by Rev. Larry Graffius
Servant: "a person totally responsible to and dependent upon another
person."
In Bible times there were primarily seven ways that a person might become
a servant to someone else. Some of these were: to be captured and taken
prisoner in war; to owe a debt or be unable to support oneself; or as a
punishment for crime.
Likewise, there were various ways that a servant could receive
manumission, that is, be set free. Some of these were: to save up enough
money to purchase one's freedom; to be released in the year of Jubilee; to
be redeemed or freed by someone else; or to flee and become a fugitive in a
foreign country.
Conditions of servanthood were not exactly desirable. Servants had no
rights, owned no property, had no choice as to their way of living. It was
totally dependent upon the master. The majority of masters, however, were
at least humane, and many servants were treated as members of the
household, like additional family members.
There were various attitudes and motivations for service. Some served
strictly out of duty or obligation; some service was motivated by guilt,
still others with an attitude of pride. The best motivation for service is
love. The most important attitude of a servant is humility � perfectly
exemplified by Jesus Christ (see Phil. 2:4-11).
Some other Biblical examples of servants are Moses, David, Paul and
Stephanas. A closer look at Stephanas (1 Cor. 16:15-18) shows that he and
his family were the first Christian converts in Corinth. They were devoted
to service and therefore they supplied what was lacking in the mission
work. Such men deserve our recognition. The life of Mother Teresa provided
a beautiful example of a modern-day servant. Another model is the Salvation
Army.
Finally, more than merely discuss the topic, we are challenged with the
question: Are you willing to be a servant? Knowing what it involves,
knowing the terms and conditions, are you willing to be a servant of the
Master, the Lord Jesus Christ? We have been chosen to serve.
Campers learn about disciplines, God's will
Youth Pre-Con celebrates disciplines of Christian life
by Aubrey Appel
If you have ever been to a SDB YF meeting, hung out after church on
Sabbath afternoons with a group of Christian friends, or been to a summer
camp with fellow SDBs, then you probably have a small understanding of the
awesome experience that defines Pre-Con. Pre-Con is similar to an extremely
large YF group with SDB people from all over the country and many differing
American accents.
This year's Pre-Con program was directed by the ever-famous Pastor Andrew
Camenga and was definitely a success. The other counselors that kept us in
line were Pastor Steve James and his wife, Debbie, Leanne Rogers, Vivian
Looper, and Reid and Phyllis Mattison. There were a total of 57 campers
this year which often became hungry at various times during the day and
were graciously fed by Mrs. Davis, Mr. Thorngate, and Mrs. Barnes.
The theme for the week was "Celebrating the Disciplines," which was
printed on a really cool sticker that we got on a folder the first day.
Some of the disciplines we looked at were prayer, study of the Word,
submission, service, holiness, and worship. Pastor Andrew spoke on these
subjects about twice a day. We learned about the fruits of the Spirit and
the greatest gift of all, love. We also read our Bibles by ourselves
everyday during "A Time Set Apart" (if we could stay awake!). Pastor Andrew
could be heard saying, "God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your
life!" about 23 times a day.
Our days consisted of falling out of bed at an early hour and stumbling
into the smelly showers. (For those of you who don't know what I mean by
smelly, you haven't experienced one of the joys of Camp Joy. The water
supply out in rural Berea rather reeks of sulfur. Some of the lucky
campers, like me, had only heard of the "water situation," but finally
fulfilled our dreams and got to experience bathing in it, washing in it,
and drinking it. However bad the water though, we didn't let it ruin our
Pre-Con experience.) The rest of the day consisted of meals, chores,
celebrations of certain disciplines, recreation, planning activities and
Monday night's service, horizontal time (which was definitely a favorite
among us), and just sitting and talking with faraway SDB friends.
Pre-Con was definitely something I will remember for the rest of my life.
God really worked during Pre-Con and we had one camper that accepted Christ
as her savior. (We love you!) Vespers time was always cool and moving even
when we had to sing a cappella. We all bonded really well by the end of the
week and we were excited about spending more time together at Conference.
I was extremely glad that I was able to go to Pre-Con and spend time with
Christian people my age. I met a lot of people that I will definitely
e-mail when I get home. I would give the Pre-Con Experience two thumbs up.
I thank the Lord that He kept us all safe and gave us an awesome time
together.
When the New Wears Off ... In It for the Long Haul
by Debbie Moncrief
Young Adult Pre-Con kicked off with the arrival of 38 young folks and four
dedicated staff members. Pastor Gordon Lawton, Pastor Scott Hausrath, and
Mike and Sanja Looper led us and were there to talk to us when we wanted.
Starting out in Revelation we searched the Scriptures and investigated the
first three churches, Ephesus, Smyrna, and Pergamum, and what Jesus said
about their Christian witness. After sharing some of our own concerns and
worries about our future and God's plan for us, the lessons on Revelation
were set aside for a study on God's will and how God guides us. We
discussed how we need to be aware and obedient to God, search for
direction, and trust in God for the discisions that we make. "And we know
that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him who have
been called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28).
Sharing and praying with each other are what this Pre-Con was all about.
God's presence was revealed as we went to Him and each other for help and
support. It was noted that we had a new and exciting atmosphere while we
were chasing God and not each other. It was an exciting time loving and
fellowshiping with each other, as we grew in the Lord. We were all united
as we learned that others were facing the same problems and concerns. We
were able to talk together, eat together, laugh together, and cry together.
God worked on us, stretched us, loved us, and blessed us. "Your word is a
lamp to my feet and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105).
'Relating to Other Sabbathkeepers' Seminar to provide witnessing
information
by Bill Burks
In the past few years in many religious organizations have experienced
changes, affecting many Sabbath congregations. Many people in these
organizations are searching for new church affliations, and some are coming
to Seventh Day Baptists seeking fellowship.
The seminar will help Seventh Day Baptists understand the doctrines,
teachings and world views of these other Sabbath-keeping groups. By better
understanding what these groups believe, Seventh Day Baptists can better
address the issues these people may have when considering our churches. The
seminar will also seek to reflect a method of ministering effectively to
these displaced Sabbath keepers.
The seminar will concentrate on two Sabbath-keeping organizations: Seventh
Day Adventists and the Worldwide Church of God
Pastor Ron Elston of the Faith Seventh Day Baptist Church of Doniphan,
Missouri, and Assistant Pastor Bill Burks of the Little Rock, Arkansas,
Seventh Day Baptist Church will be presenting this seminar. Pastor Elston
will conduct the portion of the presentation dealing with Seventh-day
Adventists and Pastor Burks will provide the portion of the presentation on
the Worldwide Church of God.
The seminar will be held on Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. in Martin
Relgious Center, Room 108.
Prayer Concerns
Pray that the sessions of General Conference will go smoothly, that the
business sessions will be characterized by Christian love and cooperation,
that God will be glorified in everything that is done here this week, and
that the Holy Spirit will be present in every session.
Pray for Conference President John Bevis, that God will give him wisdom as
he officiates at this week's meeting. Pray also for his healing from
Parkinson's disease.
Pray for Barbara and Daryl White. Daryl has experienced several small
strokes (TIAs) in the last year and diagnostic tests have not determined
what is causing the TIAs. Barbara was scheduled to have a biopsy this
afternoon and, if a malignancy was found, a modified mastectomy.
Pray for Bob and Linda Harris as the family makes plans to move to Colorado
Springs, for a place to live and a job for Bob.
..........................................................................
Conference Crier, Tuesday, July 28, 1998
Monday worship focuses on "A Royal Priesthood"
by Christina Cain
Monday evening worship was opened with a lovely prelude by the Conference
choir. Linda and Miriam Lawton blessed the congregation as they lifted
their voices in praise with special music. Rev. Ken Chroniger guided God's
chosen people through the worship service.
Dr. Ernest Bee's presentation was "A Royal Priesthood." In the scripture,
Exodus 19:1-6, God promised Moses that, if his people would obey God and
keep His commandments, they would be a kingdom of priests and a holy
nation.
God was a mentor to Moses. A mentor is someone who teaches and trains
another in the ways of God. All of us need a mentor. Our mentor is God and
others we have known who are rich in the faith.
God calls us to be mentors to others. As we would care for a beautiful
rose, so we must also care for our fellow man. Pruning, dusting and
watering the spirit is essential for growth.
Dr. Bee shared with us the familiar story of Bambi in a different light.
It is often seen as a love story, but it also depicts the journey into
adulthood. The leader of the herd prepares young Bambi for his coming
leadership role, teaching and training him as a mentor would. As the young
deer realizes there is a "being" over all of us, his mentor knows his job
is done and he can go.
Praise God, how great Thou art.
Tuesday morning Bible study focuses on holiness
by Margaret Taylor
The Tuesday morning Bible study began with a period of worship and praise
in song. The moving melody of "Refiner's Fire" set the tone tone for Pastor
Jeanne Yurke's message.
Our study began with an anecdote of a young woman just completing her
seminary training who felt the need of counsel from experienced pastors.
She sought the advice of three retired ministers who warned her about
"pastor's knees," "prayer elbow" and "praise hypertension." The point of
the story is that our holiness is not a matter of external action or
appearance but internal attitude.
The message was developed from Hebrews 12:10-14, a familiar passage on the
discipline of God for His true children. Pastor Yurke emphasized that
discipline is a result of legitimate sonship. God's discipline goes well
beyond that of human fathers; His discipline is always perfect because God
is perfect. Our Heavenly Father disciplines us for the purpose of sharing
in His holiness, as He sets us apart for His exclusive use.
Just as discipline from our parents was painful, our spiritual discipline
is also painful , but it produces the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
So what is the relationship between discipline and holiness? Holiness
requires a separation from the impurities of the world. Sin cannot be a
consort with the righteousness of God.
Pastor Yurke spoke of a young woman who wanted to tour a coal mine wearing
a white dress. When admonished to go change, she inquired, "Is there any
reason that I can't go in there wearing a white dress?" The reply was, "No,
but there's a lot of reasons why you can't come out of there wearing one!"
Many people who call themselves Christians can't really relate to the
Christ of Christianity and His purity. We need to be not isolated, but
insulated, in order to be set apart for God. We will imitate those with
whom we associate. Unlike the paper boys whose whistling was offkey because
the bells in the church tower were out of pitch, we must be familiar with
the perfect pitch of God's Word and holiness in order to recognize where
the world is out of tune.
We are far from perfect; therefore, let us be careful not to mislead
others by our walk. We can help "smooth out the path" for those who follow
us if we daily meet the challenge to be conformed to the image of Christ.
Pastor Yurke illustrated this point by a parable.
A man described the long involved process of preparing rocky New England
soil for planting. It was easy to see the need to remove the large rocks
and boulders. Once these were gone there were many large stones exposed and
then the small stones and gravel that needed to go to make the soil good
for planting. Many Christians never get beyond removing the rocks and
boulders before giving up on the stones and gravel, and failing to become
useful, fertile soil.
She finished the study with the illustration of the apple tree, the fruit
of which comes in stages, or seasons, of blossoming, bitterfruit, and
finally the good ripe fruit. This is like the righteousness of Christ
manifested in us when we endure the discipline of God and the suffering it
brings, remembering His promise of sharing, also in the glory and riches of
Christ.
Memorial Board presentation honors John Vergeer
by Peter Fox
Today at 9:30 a.m., the Memorial Board gathered in the Chapel to give
their annual report to the Conference. Don Graffius, from Salemville, PA,
was the first one to go up to the stage. He addressed the crowd and told us
of the "holiness" of John Bevis's teachings (if you weren't there, ask
someone who was). The tables were reversed in this situation. Don popped a
pop quiz upon Mr. Bevis. Even though it was tough, John came through with
an A-. Through this creative presentation, Don gave us the information of
all the different jobs of the Memorial Board. The Building Fund and many
others were explained to the group.
The next person to take the mic was Paul Barkus of the Brundage Stay and
Rose company. He gave a report to the Conference about the situation of the
money. He explained how our money is in stocks, CDs, and the money market
fund. He told of what the Memorial Board is for long term growth. For ten
years now, Paul has been doing this for our Conference.
Dale Thorngate of Salem, WV, let us know of how John Vergeer has helped
us. For twelve years, John has been the Financial Advisor for the Memorial
Board. At his conclusion, Dale presented John with a plaque that showed our
thanks to him (and John's love of trains).
Owen Probasco, from Shiloh, NJ, took the stage and said a few kind words
towards Mr. Vergeer. Then, out came an object hidden beneath a white cloth.
As the shroud was lifted, a beautiful wooden relief portrait of a train was
revealed. This was presented to John for his dedicated service in the
Memorial Board.
Now, John took a moment to thank all, and say a few words. He said he was
glad to have served the Memorial Board for these twelve years. Mr. Vergeer
then stepped down as Financial Advisor.
Owen Probasco then returned, and let all know that Calvin Babcock proudly
has taken over the position of Financial Advisor for the Memorial Board in
place of John Vergeer, thus concluding the presentation of the Memorial
Board.
Business meeting, General Council report part of Monday morning schedule
by Luan Ellis
The first business session of the 186th Annual Seventh Day Baptist General
Conference was called to order by President John Bevis on Monday, July 27,
1998. The Conference Pastor, Rev. Mynor Soper, opened the meeting with
prayer.
The "most interesting and exciting" Procedural Motion was read by
President-Elect, Norma Rudert.
Margaret Taylor of Westerly, RI read the Obituary Committee report. She
read of 13 deaths in the past year of pastors, pastor wives, missionaries,
past Presidents, Deacons and Deaconesses and others who have served our
denomination. Rev. S. Kenneth Davis led the Conference in prayer for those
who have given us a legacy of great inspiration and whom we will remember
for their commitment to Christ and Seventh Day Baptists.
Next, an august, distinguished looking group of eleven people took the
stage to read us the General Council report. This group of people
represents the Boards and Agencies of the denomination plus six members
elected by the Conference.
The elected members read the report, which highlighted the following:
�Conference will be held on the campus of Hope College in Holland, MI in 1999
�Two new churches are recommended for membership:
All Nations Church of Los Angeles, CA
Shepherd's Fold of Blountville, TN
�Three Pastors recommended for Accreditation:
Eric Davis of Riverside, CA
Steven James of Verona, NY
Robert VanHorn of Columbus, OH
�Asking for the confirmation of Rod Henry as Interim Executive Secretary
The report spoke to the recommendation made by the Nominations Committee
at General Conference last year. They stated that they felt there should be
no reorganization of the General Council made at this time.
The Report was accepted and their recommendations were referred to the
appropriate Interest Committees.
Now, this august, distinguished group of leaders were very business-like
in their presentation of their report, but we all know them and know they
are not boring. I was disappointed in the dryness and unenthusiastic
presentation made by the group. Having been privileged to hear an
expounding of the United in Service proposal, I was excitedly waiting to
hear an enthusiastic presentation of this new visionary outlook for Seventh
Day Baptists. In speaking with others, we agreed that we would like to have
heard more of the reasoning behind the response to the Nominations
Committee recommendation. Come on guys. We can all read. Give us an
exciting and inspiring report one that we can talk about all week long
and until next Conference.
To conclude the morning business session, Calvin Babcock gave an oral
report as out-going Executive Secretary. He announced that there is only
enough Annual Report books for one per family.
Tuesday evening, between the Vespers service and the Evening Worship
Service there will be a collection of our earnings from the $1.00 that
Calvin gave us last year. He gave us the money and gave us the options of
spending the dollar, keeping the dollar, or investing the dollar for
Christ's Kingdom. He has already received $270 from three people who will
not be able to attend tomorrow night. You may share how you invested your
dollar with Calvin, if you wish.
Calvin gave his thanks for the support of his SDB family over his years
service as Executive Secretary and asked us to give Rod Henry our whole
support for his term as Interim Executive Secretary.
This report was accepted with a round of applause and a standing ovation
to thank to Calvin for his work.
"Chosen to Bear Fruit that Will Remain" looks at keeping members
by Andy Samuels
"We have so many people who visit our church, but they don't stay. They
usually say they like the Service but then they don't come back. What are
they looking for?" Maybe you've heard similar words or maybe you've uttered
them yourself. For most churches, it is a great challenge to retain and
assimilate people. Our denomination in particular also suffers from the
exodus of our youths and young adults because it seems that we are just not
able to effectively minister to them.
The seminar, "Chosen To Bear Fruit That Will Remain," looks at the reasons
people may feel excluded from our church, explores the principles which
hold congregations together, identifies the prices that must be paid for a
church to grow, and takes a fresh look at what church membership means.
Ultimately we must ask ourselves questions like, "How much are we willing
to do to keep people from leaving? What does it take to close the back door
of our church? Are we doing enough? This seminar will attempt to take a
serious and introspective look at those kinds of questions.
The presenter is Pastor Andy Samuels from Miami, FL. The seminar will be
Thursday afternoon at 2:00 in Martin Religious Center, Room 300.
Historical Society looks toward the future
by Donna (Sanford) Bond
In tying in his presentation with the new emphasis proposed by General
Council, Historian Don Sanford asked, "What does an old historian have to
offer Seventh Day Baptists to lead them into the 21st century with 'new
ministries, new people and new relationships'?" Perhaps, he suggested, we
could find new ways to implement old ministries and relationships.
Mr. Sanford then shared from A.H. Lewis' book, Letters to Young Preachers,
written at the turn of the century when SDB membership peaked at 10,000.
Mr. Lewis projected that the following trends would dominate the 20th
century: 1) Intense commercialism; 2) politics centered around ethical
issues; 3) great scientific intellectualism vs. spirituality and 4) a
"Sabbathless age."
In order to be "United in Service" as a denomination, Mr. Sanford
continued, we need to pay careful attention to why we are a separate
denomination. He quoted Mr. Lewis as stating that the problem is deeper
than just choosing a day of worship and rest; rather, it involves
spiritual issues as they relate to Sabbath-keeping. Preaching and quoting
scripture will not override the traditions of most people, even though many
might agree that we are "right." We have a unique mission to those who are
convinced or are seriously considering changing their practice. We also
need to teach our own people that Sabbath-keeping is a response of love for
our God; too often we avoid Sabbath discussion in our own churches because
we "don't want to offend" anyone.
One new method of promoting old ministries is the use of e-mail. Mr.
Sanford shared several recent letters with us from among the 200 inquiries
he has received via e-mail during the past year. Basically, these inquiries
fall into four categories: 1) those who want comparative information about
our beliefs and those of the Seventh-day Adventists; 2) Sunday-keepers who
have recently discovered the Sabbath truth; 3) those who want information
about the location of the nearest SDB church; and 4) genealogical requests.
Christians, Mr. Sanford said, are more interested in learning about the
Sabbath than the type of annual dinners traditionally served by any of our
churches. Yet we never hesitate to advertise our fund-raising dinners!
In closing, Mr. Sanford called upon his daughter, Doreen Davis, to lead
the congregation (both young and old) in singing our own "Youth Rally Song"
with special emphasis on "proud we are of the name" and "We'll strive to be
true to the Sabbath." He challenged us to truly be proud of our name and
our unique message of Sabbath-keeping as a response to our love for God.
Responses from e-mail Crier received
"Enjoyed receiving the Crier and remember how much work it is but so
rewarding to those who can't be there. We will be remembering the sessions
in our daily prayers."
Katherine Spreadborough
"Thank you for the report from the Conference. While I feel like I am
really missing a fantastic Conference, your report made a bright spot in my
day."
Gary Simpson
"The Crier looks great and really makes me miss the experience. Especially
all the people in attendance.
"I've got an idea . . . (watch out!!). I'm wondering if it would be
possible to compile a list of names with e-mail list so that anyone who's
looking for someone could maybe contact them via e-mail (especially those
of us who aren't at conference). Maybe if possible also include the snail
mail address too.
"I know this may be stretching a bit but somehow I truly think SDBs are
capable of anything."
In Him,
Barb Parent
"Greetings from sunny hot AZ. Thanks for the Crier. I will look forward to
reading it this week. I will keep the Conference in my prayers this week.
Sue Cartwright
"Thanks for sending the Crier today. My wife got up first thing this
morning and checked the e-mail for your newsletter. If you see Taryn and
Ben Wiley please give them a hug for us and tell them that we miss them,
and LOVE them.
"Thanks again for the correspondence, we look forward to your next one.
"May God bless you and be with the whole Conference."
Bill and Donna Wiley
"Thanks so much for the news from Conference. What a nice surprise � almost
like being there."
Beth Wallstrom
Cyber Crier provides instant information
The Conference Crier is being e-mailed to 89 people daily. The above
messages have been received in response to the e-mail Crier. This way, many
people who aren't able to be at Conference can keep informed as Conference
progresses. Thanks to Dave Taylor for providing this service.
Prayer Concerns
Pray for Barbara White. The biopsy yesterday showed malignancy and she had
a modified mastectomy. She is in the hospital and will know more in a few
days.
..........................................................................
Conference Crier, Wednesday, July 29, 1998
Tuesday worship includes inspiring music
by Andrew Camenga
The trumpet and piano reminded us that we are near to the heart of God.
The service reminded us that we are chosen, set aside, and called by God.
We are to be obedient to Jesus Christ and to be sprinkled with His blood.
This truth will change the way we live in the world. As people near to God
and chosen to bear his name our purpose is that in all things God may be
praised through Jesus Christ.
Ben and Lannette Calhoun opened our time of worship with a trumpet and
piano duet, "Near to the Heart of God." George Cruzan, functioning as our
leader in worship, read the theme verse of Conference and brought our
attention to God's amazing description of His people. These ideas were
allowed to live in us as we sang "Take Time to be Holy."
The responsive reading showed that our sinful nature results in obvious
action but the Spirit produces action of another kind. The love of God and
the joy He produces were demonstrated for the Conference as the Choir
brought us before our fountain and shelter, before the One who sits on the
throne. We were kept in His presence as Pastor Ken Burdick proclaimed God's
Word as seen in 1 Peter.
After a brief demonstration of a peculiar possession, strange glasses that
radically altered his appearance, Pastor Ken explained that the King James
word "peculiar" refers to the 1990's word "special." He then reminded us
that in Christ we are temporary residents in the midst of the world who are
set apart to be God's possession. While others may stumble in the dark, we
have been set in the light of God and given guidance.
Pastor Ken then explained that titles belonging to Israel were used by
Peter to describe the Church. The titles were used to show that God chose
the Church. As Israel was chosen for freedom from slavery to Egypt, so the
Church was chosen for freedom from slavery to sin. This freedom is marked
by a Church that is holy. The Church is to be splendid, pure, and
untarnished.
Love deeply from the heart. Don't take a dive. Realize that you are on
display and choose the good consistently. These are the words of advice
that Pastor Ken set before us. He explained that the heart represented the
will, thought, and emotional side of humanity. So, we are to rid ourselves
of malice, hypocrisy, envy, and the other things which destroy the evidence
of God's love in action. From these thoughts and others we were encouraged
to remember that we are sprinkled by the blood of Jesus and are expected to
be obedient to Him. Through him we are redeemed. Our purpose is to live
lives so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
Wednesday Bible Study focuses on worship
"Chosen for Worship" was the topic of this morning's Bible Study. Pastor
Bernie Wethington, from White Cloud, MI, presented the study based upon
Romans 12:1, 2. He began by asking, "Do we want to see Jesus today?"
Pastor Bernie helped us look at this passage as though we were seeing
Jesus. He is the "Son of God" and since we are "heirs" and "co-heirs," He
is our "Big Brother" in a most loving sense. Jesus is the "merciful one,"
"full of compassion." He presented his body as a living sacrifice and He
found that "reasonable."
As the study shifted focus from Jesus to us, the "Chosen," the Pastor
reminded us that we are to present our bodies, and every aspect of who we
are to God as living sacrifices. We must not wait until we are ready to
die. We must live this type of life every day. One intriguing question
raised was, "Would we be in danger of martyrdom?" Most of us would not
since we aren't living "holy and pleasing" lives.
The big challenge in responding to our being "Called to Worship" is
whether we have "conformed to the pattern of this world." This conformity
takes many insiduous forms. Most of these worldly influences keep us from
worshiping God 24/7 (twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week). The
apostle Paul considered this our "reasonable service." We must constantly
be asking ourselves, "Is Jesus worth it?"
Worship music for today's study was led by Dave Stahl. He led us in
declaring this "Holy Ground," a familiar chorus for most of us. The
conclusion was an inspiring new tune by Rich Mullins, "I See God
Everywhere." What an inspirational hour!
Views on Trinity expounded by 'History of the Trinity' workshop leaders
by John Camenga
Nearly forty years ago the British churchman, J.B. Phillips, published a
book entitled Your God Is Too Small. Phillips contended that many
Christians harbor inadequate conceptions of God which unconsciously limit
our ability to catch a glimpse of His power and authority. He labeled these
views of God with titles such as "Resident Policeman," "God in a Box," and
"Pale Galilean." Mr. Phillips' book is still challenging to me because it
pointed out our human tendency to "cut God down to manageable size." There
is a tendency in most of us to try to understand who God is. I would
contend that our effort to understand more than He has chosen to reveal is
not a very productive pursuit for believers.
The psalmist reflected on the majesty of the sky and asked, "What is man
that Thou art mindful of him?" John's Gospel assures us that, "No man has
seen God at any time; the only begotten God, who is in the bosom of the
Father, He has explained Him" (John 1:18, NASB). God chose to reveal
Himself to human beings in many ways. His ultimate self-revelation is in
the life of our Savior. Our Heavenly Father has reserved for Himself
certain areas of knowledge about who He is and what He does.
First-century Christians seem to have been concerned about what they saw
the Son do and heard Him say. They reported on what He promised they would
receive through the Holy Spirit. In turn, they reported incidents in which
the power of the Holy Spirit was displayed. They did not spend much time
writing about the intricate relationships between Father, Son and Spirit.
Various writers responded to concerns of believers as issues came up. The
Thessalonians wondered about the order of the resurrection and Paul
responded. Some Corinthians questioned the resurrection and eternal life.
Once again, the apostle explained the facts to them in letter form. At no
point does the New Testament present a "systematic theology." The effort to
identify and categorize theology began after the New Testament era.
It is important for us to have people who invest their time and ability
in the study of systematic theology. We need to understand, as clearly as
possible, what we do know about God. We need to remember, however, that
these are the efforts of the human mind and are of a different level of
authority than the Scriptures. Most such theology developed in response to
wrong understandings (heresies). An impartial reading of history reveals
how flawed and "human" some of the theological debates have been. In our
own discussions we need to avoid the excesses of past generations. We would
be wise to apply Paul's advice to Timothy: "Remind them in the presence of
God not to wrangle over words, which is useless, and leads to the ruin of
the hearers" (2 Timothy 2:14, NABS). I am comfortable with the New
Testament model--describing the acts of God. Perhaps a "descriptive
theology" would be more helpful.
by Jack Morgan
One of the distinctives for which Seventh Day Baptists are most noted is
tolerance of others' beliefs and especially so in matters that have been
historically controversial among Christian believers.
One of the reasons I am pleased to share this seminar time with Pastor
John Camenga is because I don't know his position on this subject. And I
hope that he is not concerned about my position, if I have one.
The purpose of the seminar is not to tout his or my position but rather to
edify and promote an atmosphere of tolerance.
Jesus is not down here beating anyone into accepting His truth; far be it
from us to assume that we should such concerning what we perceive as truth.
Council on Ministry report informative
Edgar Wheeler opened with prayer the report of the Council on Ministry,
whose purpose is to promote, educate, and sustain Seventh Day Baptist
pastoral ministry. This is accomplished through both the School of Ministry
and Pastoral Services. Rod Henry, the pastors' pastor, is the Dean of the
School of Ministry and the Director of Pastoral Services. Also, Rod has
accepted the position of Interim Executive Secretary, and recently
completed his service as Interim Pastor of the Albion SDB Church. Rod is a
busy man, but he makes time for pastors. Fortunately he is supported by the
Council on Ministry: Rev. Edgar Wheeler, Luan Ellis, Lorna Austin Graffius,
Rev. Gordon Lawton, Norman Burdick, and Rev. Bernie Wethington.
Matthew Berg, beginning his seminary education this fall at Regent College
in Vancouver, B.C., continued the COM presentation by outlining the
commission of the School of Ministry, the umbrella under which all
theological training is approved. He listed the various programs: New
Worker Orientation, TIME Program, Certificate Education Program, Seminary
Education Program, and Doctor of Ministry Program. As a student in the
Seminary Education Program, Matt also shared with us the names of the other
current seminary students: Scott Smith (Bethel), Nello Carmichael
(Western), and Herlitz Condison (Tyndale).
Erik Henry, who has been called to plant Seventh Day Baptist churches,
then reported on the Pastors Round-table at the SDB Center, May 18-20; 23
pastors attended this gathering for theological discussion, prayer, and
fellowship. Erik also discussed the Certificate Education Program, a
one-year program for in an accredited theological seminary.
L. B. Lee, Colorado Springs pastor and a current student in the TIME
Program, explained that Training In Ministry by Extension provides
theological training for those pastors who are not able to attend seminary.
Recent TIME graduates include Robert Van Horn of the Columbus Church, Chris
Mattison of the North Loup Church, and Sergei Bogolepov of the Novosibirsk
(Russia) Fellowship.
Pastor Bill Burks of Little Rock, another TIME student, discussed the
International TIME Program, currently being developed by Rod Henry. Rod has
completed the first two modules. A cooperative effort of COM and the
Missionary Society, this curriculum is designed for English-speaking SDB
conferences around the world. In October Rod will help launch this program
with 12 students in Guyana. Bill also informed us of New Worker
Orientation, a program developed for new extension workers. There are three
people enrolled in this program: Hugh Fyffe, Clyde London of Toronto, and
Gordon Fawdry of Mtn. View, Mo.
Jeff Rood, Dodge Center, cannounced his call to youth ministry and shared
information about Denominational Worker Training and In-Service Education.
The Council on Ministry views education as a lifelong processcommiting to
providing financial assistance to pastors who desire to further their
education.
Nicholas Kersten, Milton, recently graduated from high school and is
preparing to begin his college career and then seminary. He encouraged us
to send our pastors to the 1999 Pastors Conference, to be held April 13-17
in Denver.
Pastor Tom Mitchell, Centralia, WA,shared with us about a program called
Bivocational Support, a joint effort of COM and the Memorial Board. This
program provides pastors with financial support as they train for
bivocational ministry. Leon Wheeler, pastor of the Alfred Church, for
example, was enabled by this program to receive an MS in Elementary
Education from Alfred University. He now utilizes his education as a
teacher.
Pastor Herlitz Condison of Toronto then shared with us the work of the
Committee on Support and Retirement. In addition to administering
retirement programs for SDB pastors, COSAR also provides counseling and
emergency relief funds for our pastors.
Rod Henry continued by noting the high quality of both SDB pastors and
those who are preparing to become pastors. He specifically mentioned his
excitement regarding the TIME students and seminary students. Then Rod
asked the pastors in the audience to stand, and, in his capacity as the
pastors' pastor, he closed the program by conferring a blessing on them.
Announcements
Visit to Fort New Salem
and Salem SDB Church
Sign up soon at the registration office door for the Friday afternoon van
trip to Salem. The tour will visit Fort New Salem living history museum at
Salem-Teikyo University. Special SDB rate � $2.00. Also visit historic
Salem SDB Church and its almost-completed four-story addition (no charge).
The van will live at 1:00 p.m. Friday and will return by 5:00.
65th Anniversary
Robert and Gladys Randolph of Denver, CO, will celebrate their 6th wedding
anniversary on September 7, 1998. They would appreciate greetings from
friends. Address: 3334 W. Layton Ave., Englewood, CO, 80110.
Family Sabbath School Class
An intergenerational (not just for families) Sabbath School Class will be
held in the Chapel on Sabbath morning from 9:00-10:00. The topic will be
different kinds of families. All are welcome to come.
Sign up for Sabbath noon
If you want to eat the Sabbath noon meal in the cafeteria and do not have
a ticket, please buy your ticket at the registration office as soon as
possible as the cafeteria needs a count of those eating at Sabbath noon.
The cost is $6.10.
Talent Offering
Just over $300 in $1 bills were given to Conference attenders last year.
Calvin Babcock invited the recipients to use their dollars as seed money
and bring the increase to this year's Conference. Over $3800 has been
turned in thus far, including an offering on Tuesday night. If any money
has not been turned in, Calvin will gladly accept it throughout the week.
Conference T-shirts available
T-shirts with the Conference logo (above) are being sold in the cafeteria
dining room. Sizes S to XL are still available at $10 each.
SCSC Craft Table
As of Wednesday morning, sales totaled $725.
Conference registration as of Wed. morning � 716.
Prayer Concerns
Pray for Barbara White. The biopsy Monday showed malignancy and she had a
modified mastectomy. She is in the hospital and will know more in a few
days.
Pray for Ruth Cruzan. She and Marion were at Conference but had to leave
suddenly because she became ill. (Ruth and Barbara are sisters.)
Pray for Keri Barber who is pregnant and had a TIA (small stroke).
Pray for L.B. and Angie Lee. Their car was in an accident and they have no
other way to get home from Conference.
Another e-mail response
Thank you VERY much for compiling and sending this to me! I have no access
to a Sabbath-keeping church (besides Adventists) so I really appreciate the
contact with the SDB Church that you provide. May our Father in Heaven
bless you in this work!
Roger Freedline
Notice
Several articles from yesterday's Crier are missing the last few words. Our
apologies for what was missing.
..........................................................................
Conference Crier, Thursday, July 30, 1998
Wednesday worship challenging
by Peter Fox
(with a little help from Chris Van Horn, and the grammar checker, and Yonkers)
Stained Glass led the vespers service for Wednesday evening. It was full
of singing, rejoicing, and praising God. Almost everyone in the Chapel was
standing as voices rang throughout the room. The moving music of all our
favorite songs, along with the wonderful voices of Stained Glass and the
church, helped to create an even more fantastic vespers service.
Lannette Calhoun opened the worship service by singing a song that
reverberated throughout the Chapel. She was accompanied by Brett Greene, of
Columbus, OH, on the piano.
Susan Davis Bond, of Lost Creek, WV, read scripture to the congregation,
and prayed that the Lord would be with us in all that we do.
Next, the walls thundered with the music of the pipe organ as Brett Greene
played for the hymn, and as the congregation sang in unity.
Susan Bond and Marissa Van Horn, of Columbus, OH, led the congregation in
singing �Shine, Jesus, Shine,� accompanied by Brett on the piano.
Marissa and Susie then read scriptures from Psalms. They led us in singing
�All Hail the Power of Jesus� Name.� Brett again played the pipe organ for
this.
Back to the piano, Brett played along with us as we sang �Lord, I Lift
Your Name on High.�
This was followed by a moment of silent prayer. The congregation took time
from their busy schedule to pray. And we all know that prayer is good.
Pastor Steve Osborn, of Lost Creek, WV, sang a beautiful song entitled
�Man After Your Own Heart.� He sang the story a man that was doing what he
could in order to be more like his Heavenly Father, and be the kind of man
of whom God would be proud. The song was based upon the Biblical story of
David.
Susan gave an opportunity for testimonies from the congregation. After a
few moments of silence, Kay Maltby, of Plainfield, NJ, gave a testimony of
her experiences with becoming a Christian thirty years ago and keeping the
�spark� with her through the thirty long years since then.
Ben Calhoun, of Milton, WI, sang a wonderful song, entitled �God�s Grace.�
Ben�s rich voice rang out as he sang this song with all of his soul.
Pastor George Calhoun, of Milton, WI, gave the evening�s message. The
message was entitled �Chosen to Give Adoration and Praise.� Pastor George�s
message was from 1 Peter, and he spoke about just how �deep� the life of
Peter was, and how he spread the Gospel. He discussed how and what Peter
told people. Sometimes, it didn�t sound like Peter was telling the people
to praise, but he really was. In order to truly praise God, we must get rid
of all the sin in our lives. We all got ready to roll up our sleeves and
dive into the theme verse of Conference 1998: You are a chosen people. He
closed his message with a prayer, asking Jesus to help us live out our role
as His chosen people.
The service was eloquently concluded by the congregation singing �Victory
in Jesus.� As all clapped and sang and fellowshiped, God�s presence could
just be felt.
Pastor George said a benediction that sent the congregation out of the
Chapel with God welling from their hearts.
Wednesday p.m. business short but sweet
by Beverly Kilts
The Wednesday afternoon business session was called to order at 2:00 by
President John Bevis. Following a prayer led by Dale Smalley, the minutes
of the previous session were read and reports from the interest committees
were called for. No one responded, so we sang. (Sounds like a good business
meeting to me.) Voices were lifted in praise with the hymns �Power in the
Blood� and �It is Well.�
Calvin Babcock then took the floor and reported on the returns from our
talents. As you remember, approximately $300 in $1 bills were given to
those attending conference last year with the intent of using our
ingenuities to make an increase. The largest return so far was from a
couple (unknown) who, through a method (unknown) presented a return of
$500. Well done!
At this point, the Christian Social Action Interest Committee was ready
with their report. After its reading, there were some questions from the
floor and the report was then sent back to committee for rewording.
The Women's Interest Committee then gave their report. Commendation was
given to the Women's Society for their hard work and dedication during the
past year. At their interest committee meetings, invited guests spoke about
their ministries in Zambia, Jamaica, Mexico, the Australasian Conference
and in SCSC. Thanks was given to the Board for their efforts in putting
together an informative brochure regarding the history, purpose and goals
of the SCSC program.
The recommendation offered by the interest committee and passed on the
floor was for a cooperative venture with the Missionary Society to
establish a joint training program for short term missions. That sounds
exciting.
Since there were no other interest committees ready to submit their
reports and there was no new business, the session then adjourned.
Nominations Highlights
President -- Norma Rudert
President-elect -- John Camenga
General Council (ending 2001) -- John Camenga, Phil Rood
Christian Social Action (ending 1999) -- Rev. David Clarke (ending 2000) --
Gwen Bowyer (ending 2001) -- Nellie Jo Brissey, Laura Lee Barnes, Fred
Sias, Kathy Nash
Council On Ministry (ending 2001) -- Norman Burdick, Pastor Mynor Soper
Tract and Communications Council (ending 1999) -- Ralph Hays Jr.
Women�s Banquet a most unusual feast
by Susie Bond
Yes, we feasted, not only on the delicacies of assorted meats and desserts
and salads served by chefs in tall hats, but also on God�s Living Word as
women from the Bible literally walked off its pages and stood before us.
Miriam, the political activist, was so powerful she was able with three
words to drive a pestering news photographer to the floor. Miriam (Vicki
Burdick) without further interruption, told how God used leprosy and a
miraculous healing to shift her focus from politics to God Himself�all of
this after He�d already carried her triumphantly through the Red Sea with
songs to sing.
Then Naomi (Nancy May) so humbly recounted for us the loving words of her
daughter in law: �Wherever you go, I will go. . . .�
From the New Testament came Phoebe as Norma Rudert told of her possibly
dangerous mission to deliver Paul�s letter to the Romans.
Although not in the Bible, herself, Tacey Hubbard pulled herself forward
from the 17th century to testify how the Bible brought her to baptism and
later to the Sabbath under the tutelage of Stephan Mumford. Standing tall
through years of persecution as well as blessing, she was among those who
established the first Seventh Day Baptist Church in Newport Rhode Island,
America, Tacey (Yvonne Stephan) proud of her 3 daughters, who passed their
faith to the next generation, expressed her hope that the same faith has
been passed on to us. She was pleased to claim Crandalls, Burdicks, Wells,
and lots more as branches of her family tree.
A gloriously fun highlight of the banquet was our learning to sing a new
song in the Zambian language.
NAKULA MWIMBILA KATULA
PANTU ALI TEMWE
NAKULA MWIMBILA
(I will sing for the Lord because He loves me so.)
Thank you, Faith Liyena, for sharing your joy and for also directing our
attention to the Malawi display in the cafeteria where we can learn more
about Zambia. This writer had lunch yesterday with a lady who has already
responded to the needs there by �adopting� an orphan just this week.
Lorna Graffius provided the run-down on how the Love Gift taken up at the
banquet will be distributed. The total given there is $3,839.87.
Distributed as:
Jamaica Barrels � $200 (postage to mail supplies)
Ron & Chris Davis � $200 (transition between missions)
�Voices of Praise� � $200 (for traveling expenses so they can sing in
Jamaica)
Of the remainder:
Zambia � 20% (sewing machines for school uniforms)
Zambia � 20% (Faith Orphanage)
Jamaica � 20% (Maiden Hall�s development)
Rwanda � 10% (roofs, medical help)
Chernobyl � 10% (Orphan�s medical help)
Sunshine Mountain � 10% (home for handicapped)
Luis Lovelace � 10% (Mexico Mission)
The banqueting ladies appreciated their favors of pancake mix and syrup
provided by the Alfred Station ladies, and the special fellowship with one
another around the tables. An extra treat leading us from food and
fellowship to the program was Emily Davis�s testimony about how God has
used SCSC experiences to help mature spiritually and socially. God�s grace
emanated from her as she quietly shared. We women give thanks to God and to
all He used to give us such a blessed feast.
Variety in worship styles appreciated
by Penny Thorngate
I have appreciated all the opportunities we have had this week to worship
our Lord. And I have been aware of the many styles of worship we have
experienced. We have had all types of music and all kinds of preaching.
We�ve had a service that was �high church� � all hymns, special music of
the �classical� type, a straight-forward message and a request that we not
applaud man, but reserve our worship for the Lord. It was wonderful.
We�ve had services with all music being praise choruses shown on the
overhead with encouragement to clap along and applaud after special music,
and a more informal message. It was wonderful.
And we�ve had services that combined the two ideas and met in the middle.
It was wonderful.
We�ve been cajoled, encouraged, informed, admonished. Our speakers have
been calm, excited, quiet, loud, peaceful and raising the rafters.
I have looked around at my fellow worshipers. I have seen hands upraised,
hands quiet, eyes closed, eyes open, eyes gazing upward.
We all worship in different ways and all appreciate different styles of
worship. But if the messages continue to be Bible based and our focus is
Jesus and our worship is Holy Spirit filled we can all be united in
worship.
Thursday morning Bible study focuses on holy boldness, evangelism
The Rev. Mynor Soper presented this morning�s study, �Chosen for Sharing
Faith,� from Philemon 4-7. Though he noted that this would be a �Mynor
Bible study,� its subject was certainly of major import.
Rev. Soper chose to lift up for us one facet of the Philemon text: Paul�s
desire that Philemon�s communication of his faith might become effectual
(verse 6). More specifically, Rev. Soper wanted to apply this thought to
Seventh Day Baptists.
Learning to share is one of the most difficult things we humans attempt,
said Rev. Soper, because we are naturally selfish. However, sharing our
faith is different from sharing our things. Faith is like love: the more we
share it, the more we have. Paul put Philemon�s love to the test by asking
him to forgive his servant Onesimus for running away from him. Onesimus
needed to be forgiven, and Philemon needed to forgive.
Digging deeper, Rev. Soper noted that this transaction of forgiveness
required action of a verbal nature. One person needed to confess, and the
other person needed to express his forgiveness. The lesson for SDBs is that
we are called not only to live out our faith in Christ, but also to
verbally communicate our faith. Though we are a good people, as
demonstrated by our willingness to take a stand on the issue of the
Sabbath, we are also a timid people when it comes to evangelism. We lack
boldness.
Not to be confused with arrogance, holy boldness is what was possessed by
such apostles as Peter and Paul. How is it possible for us SDBs to obtain
such a boldness? Rev. Soper posited seven ideas which may help us in this
quest.
First, he suggested that we go back and reaffirm our relationship with
Christ. Do we have merely a head knowledge of Christ, or have we truly been
born of the Spirit of God? Scriptures such as 1 John 5:11-13 and Romans
10:9 assure us of our salvation. Without such assurance we humans find
evangelism to be an impossible venture.
Second, are we committed to being obedient to God in all things? John 8:29
reminds us of Jesus� commitment to the Father, and Matthew 7:21
communicates to us the importance of such a commitment.
Third, do we believe others are lost without Christ? If we are saved to
something, we are certainly also saved from something. Rev. Soper reminded
us that the something from which we are saved is hell. Scriptures such as
John 14:6 and Acts 4:12 communicate that Christ is the way of salvation.
Fourth, do we understand the filling and empowering of the Holy Spirit?
John 7:37-39 says that the Spirit is given to everybody who believes. John
14:15-17 says that the Spirit will dwell with us forever. The Spirit fills
all believers. Furthermore, scriptures such as Acts 1:8 and Luke 9:1-2
communicate the empowerment we receive from the Spirit. We are not
powerless.
Fifth, the truth of the resurrection is critical. Because of this truth
the disciples were changed forever. Passages such as Acts 3:22 and 5:29-32
show how the disciples firmly believed in Christ�s resurrection. Death is
not the end; Jesus proved it.
Sixth, we are not left alone. As seen in Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus promised
to be with us. He promised that He will go wherever we will go.
Furthermore, if all power has been given to Christ, and if Christ is always
with us, we ourselves have all power in Him.
Seventh, we need to pray for holy boldness. The model for us is the
apostles� prayer in Acts 4:29.
In addition to presenting these ideas which should help us in sharing our
faith, Rev. Soper also noted five reasons for us to share. First, God
commands us to do so. The truth of Acts 1:8 has been handed down to our
generation, making us responsible to evangelize.
Second, our evangelism dem-onstrates our love for God. Scriptures such as
John 15:10 and 1 John 2:3 remind us of the importance of our obedience to
God.
Third, without Christ all people are lost, as seen in Romans 3:10 and
3:23.
Fourth, our sharing is the method God has chosen for communicating His
love to all people, as discussed in Romans 10:13-17.
Fifth, it is God�s desire to save all people (2 Peter 3:9).
Rev. Soper concluded his study with a reference to the parable of the
talents from Matthew 25:14-30. He noted that SDBs have been blessed with
the truth of the Sabbath, which reminds us that God is the Creator and that
He calls us to eternal rest. However, the Sabbath is not the only truth we
possess. We also have the life-giving truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Let the Great Commission, Rev. Soper challenged, not become for Seventh Day
Baptists the Great Omission.
Business yields many recommendations
by Robert Van Horn
The Thursday business session was called to order by President John Bevis
at 11:00 a.m. Rev Mynor Soper the Conference Pastor opened in prayer.
Raakeli Watt (recording secretary) read the minutes of the 3rd session of
business and no corrections were made. The gavel was then passed to Vice
President Stephen Rogers.
The following Reports were received and adopted in full or in part.
Report of the Nominations Committee (see additional article)
Report of the Budget and Finance Committee
Excited by the prospect of expanded and new ministries being supported with
matching funds from the Memorial Board up to $10,000 per church.
Urge that each church teach Christian Stewardship & Tithing
Report of the International Missions Committee
Appreciation to :
-Luis Lovelace, Eric & Alicia Mackintosh for ministries in Mexico.
-Val Bennet for volunteer service in Guyana.
-Upcoming TIME program co-sponsored by Missionary Society and Council On
Ministry.
-Pastor David and Bettie Pearson�s work in Malawi.
-Dr. Ron and Chris Davis�s tent making ministry in Indonesia.
-Pastor Andy Samuels for his recent participation in Jamaica�s Conference
sessions.
Report of the Interest Committee on Youth
The youth interest committee met five times with a variety of guest
speakers.
A national youth retreat to be held and announced in the Beacon.
Aubrey Appel to be appointed Editor for 98-99 Beacon
Report of the Ministerial Interests Committee
Commend Rev. Rodney Henry for his rewrite of the Manual of Procedures.
Acknowledge four Seminary Students Matthew Berg, Nello Carmichael, Herlitz
Condison, and Scott Smith.
There were three TIME Graduates: Sergei Bogolepov, Chris Mattison, Robert
Van Horn
There are two students in the T.I.M.E. program presently: Bill Burks, and
L.B. Lee, Jr.
There were six pastors ordained this year: Arthur Burkhamer, Andrew
Camenga, Scott Hausrath, Chris Mattison, Steve Osborn, Robert Van Horn.
Recommend that Eric Davis, Steven James, and Robert Van Horn be accepted as
fully accredited ministers.
Recommend that churches support and honor their pastors and that they be
recognized at General Conference in an appropriate way.
Report of the Christian Social Action Committee
Report of the Missions National Committee
Report of the Credentials Co-ordinator (see additional article).
Missionary report focuses on Mexico
by Cindy Nadeau
After an introduction by G. Kirk Looper, Executive Director of the
Missionary Society, we were treated to an update from overseas.
First was Faith Liyena of Zambia. Trained as a nurse, she was
burdened with a desire to help the children whose parents have died of
AIDS. Thus, she founded Faith Orphanages. Unlike what we think of as
orphanages, these children stay with their extended families. Currently
there are 600 children receiving services including the payment of school
fees.
Rev. Luis Lovelace then continued by greeting us in both English and
Spanish. He thanked the Missionary Society and his wife, Joanna. He has
made two trips and has been able to visit eight out of ten groups. He spoke
of how the Lord had been with him on his trips.
Accompanying him on his second trip were Alicia and Eric Mackintosh.
Alicia spoke of her heart being captured by the children. She said
that she learned that a little love expressed causes a lot to come back.
Eric then spoke of being able to minister through music, including
playing his violin. They were able to teach both praise songs and hymns.
Using music, they were able to communicate without words.
The program concluded with Luis, Alicia and Eric singing in Spanish.
Pray for the suffering church
by Bettie Pearson
Our Christian brothers and sisters in Sudan, China, Cuba, Saudi Arabia,
Pakistan and about 30 other countries are being persecuted for their faith.
Pastors endanger their lives when they preach to their people. Children of
Christian families in Sudan are captured as slaves by militant Muslims and
often their parents are killed. Thousands are martyred every year.
Voice of the Martyrs, sends out a monthly newsletter with current
information and suggests ways to help.
Let�s be informed. Tell others. Pray!
Contact: Voice of the Martyrs
PO Box 443
Bartlesville, OK 74005
Phone: (918) 337-8015
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.persecution.com
Crunching the numbers
by Cindy Nadeau
(Credentials Coordinator)
Total Registration � 707
Registered Delegates (less 1 duplicate) � 378
Churches officially represented � 56
Ministers and pastors present � 64
Students preparing for the ministry � 6
Delegates from other SDB Conferences � 0
Visitors from other conferences,organizations and churches � 3
Associated Conferences:
Junior High � 37
Grades 5 & 6 � 22
Grades 3 & 4 � 21
Grades 1 & 2 � 16
Pre-School � 8
Nursery � 13
Pre-Conference Retreats:
Youth Pre-Con Campers � 57
Staff � 10
Young Adult Pre-Con Campers � 38
Staff � 4
More responses to Crier by e-mail
Thank you once again for mailing to me the Conference Crier. As I receive
each issue I am posting it on the web with the heading: 1998 Seventh Day
Baptist Conference Criers. I am very sorry that once again I am not able to
be in attendance. Would it be possible to have a set of Conference reports
snail mailed to me? I would be happy to pay the postage.
John Conrod
Greetings from North Dakota,
I couldn�t wait to check my email this morning for the Conference
happenings. I liked the alphabetical listing of email addresses this a.m.
One almost feels like they're there as we read the familiar names and
picture the faces. Keep up the good work for those of us who are missing
Conference. Won't it be grand when every person who has ever lived won�t
miss the final gathering of SDB�s in heaven?
Thanks.
Cindi McKenzie
Thank you, thank you, Thank You!!
Even though I couldn't attend Conference, I still know what's going
on and feel closer to Buckhannon than I did last week. Praise God that
�hi-tech� doesn't mean �separated from God's people�! I'm looking forward
to reading all issues of the Crier, and I know I'll miss it next week, when
Conference is over. God Bless!!
Terry L. Durst, Groton, CT (Westerly, RI Church)
hank you for emailing us the Crier. It is the next best thing to being
there in person. Sounds like a lot of exciting things are happening at
Conference. Thanks Dave for making this email service available to so many
of us at home. God Bless all of our friends at Conference. Our prayers
are continually with you.
Your friends in Christ,
Daryl and Barbara White
Prayer Concerns
Praise God that L.B. and Angie Lee�s car will be able to be driven home
from Conference. The damage is not as bad as first expected.
Pray for Ben Harris. He is down with a mild virus and needs to be healthy
to do his part in Sabbath afternoon�s children�s presentation.
Announcements
Transportation to Airport, Bus
All those requesting transportation to the airport or bus terminal for
their return trip home should verify their departure information with
registration. Vans will depart approximately 1� hours prior to scheduled
departures. Sign up sheets are at registration.
Miami Women�s Retreat
The Miami SDB Church Women�s Group invites you to their second annual
Women�s Retreat, September 4-6, 1998, at Bible Town Retreat Center, Boca
Raton, Florida. The theme is �Women onf Substance in Pursuit of God.� The
cost is $110. For more information see Kay Samuels or call (954) 989-1027
or e-mail [email protected].
..........................................................................
Conference Crier, Friday, July 31, 1998
SCSC program filled with �Laughter�
The 1998 SCSC Team shared their experiences of the summer with us Thursday
afternoon, praising the Lord for His goodness this summer. Steve Graffius,
Kecia Thompsongordon and John Mark Camenga led the team in song, leading
off with �All Praises Be.� The teams proceeded to introduce themselves and
their projects. This summer Steve Graffius and Kecia Thompsongordon, Team
LIGHT (Micah 7:8) served in Battle Creek, MI, and Karen McPherson and Cathy
Payne, Team AROMA (2 Cor. 2:15), served in Boulder, CO. Team UNDERSTANDING
(1 John 5:20), Nathan Kinnicutt and Omari Rhoden, served in Central MD and
will continue serving in Toronto. Team GENUINE (1 Peter 1:7), Debbie
Moncrief and Marcy Payne, served in Denver, CO and Marissa VanHorn and Angi
Neher, Team HEART (1 Peter 3:14-15), served in Milton, WI. Nick Kersten and
Emily Davis, Team THANKFUL (Col. 2:6-7) served in North Loup, NE. Team
ENDURANCE (Rom. 15:4), Cathy Rogers and Jennifer Martin, served in Salem,
WV and Team RHOMPHAIA (Heb. 4:12), John Mark Camenga and Melissa
Winkleblack, served in White Cloud, MI. Put these dedicated and on-fire
young adults together and you get a lot of LAUGHTER (Ps. 126:2-3). Projects
ranged from counseling camps and VBS to organizing clothing drives, cooking
for camp and helping the Conference Host Committee.
John Mark shared with us his testimony, reading an original poem "From
Diapers to Dockers" about the Lord�s intervention in his life by calling
him back to prayer when he couldn�t �keep the greasy side down� (trans: the
car rolled). Then the team shared a la VeggieTales that "God is Bigger than
the Boogey Man" as the audience joined them with laughter and clapping.
Team LAUGHTER shared with us their adventures of the summer, including
accidentally picking up dry cleaning in a clothing drive, the camp food
leftovers song, losing lights in the shower, going without water for a few
days of camp, sunburns, camper�s pets and making birdhouses. Also, they
shared with us their occasional need to �stop, drop and rest� after these
adventures.
Following "Exalt the Lord Our God," Nick shared his testimony about God�s
faithfulness and learning to lean on God for strength. Nick shared the
process of learning to �get up the weakness� to do something (see 2 Cor.
12:10) as well as other adventures this summer. Team LAUGHTER then
expressed their love and gratitude to God in �Love Song.� Karen shared her
testimony of how she was able to give her burdens to God and let Him take
control of all her concerns and feelings. The team shared her thoughts as
they closed with "Take From Me My Life."
Charlotte Chroniger shared how SCSC has been growing and changing as
different "non-traditional" projects are added, new churches apply for
teams, and new situations are encountered. She (and many others) would
encourage even more people to get involved in this wonderful program which
helps young adults develop leadership skills, and serves the needs of so
many churches by serving in SCSC, having a team in your church, and praying
for those involved.
It was wonderful to see how God worked in each of their lives this summer.
If you haven�t had a chance, I would encourage you to take one of these
young adults aside and take five minutes to hear a little more about what
God is doing in their lives. Above all, I believe it can truly be said of
this dynamic Team LAUGHTER that �[Their] mouths were filled with laughter,
[their] tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, �The
Lord has done great things for them.� The Lord has done great things for
[them] and [they] are filled with joy� (Ps. 126:2-3).
SCSC program filled with �Laughter�
by Robert Van Horn
The worship service experiences have been varied and very inspiring this
week. This service was no different. With a choral call to worship which
set the stage, challenging us to remember that our purpose was worship, and
that we were gathered in Christ's name! Following immediately was a
beautiful prelude "Majesty" played by Lannette and Sarah Calhoun. The
chimes, responsive readings, and anthem all flowed together to bring us to
the throne of God.
Rev. Ron Elston read the scripture and then proceeded to bring us quite a
challenging message. He set the stage by asking �Is there anyone here
tonight who is righteous and without sin?� From there he gave us many
example of lost people. Anyone know who was the baseball player who had the
nickname I-285?
Ron then pointed out the church would never go out of business for lack of
prospects. The problem of unfilled pews is not because there are not
prospects but because of a wrong focus. We tend to look for people who can
build up the church instead of going out to find the lost. Do we as SDB�s
put restrictions on people before accepting them into the family. Have
SDB�s established a time that a person must be a part of the church before
they are accepted into the family? A year? Five years? Ten years?
Crossroads, yes SDB�s are at a crossroads. Which direction will we go?
Will SDB�s choose to go to the lost? They may look different! They may
even smell different! They may have family problems that you wouldn�t
believe! They don�t appear to be our own kind!
Some anonymous cynic put it like this: �I was hungry and you formed a
humanities club and discussed my hunger; Thank you. I was imprisoned and
you crept off quietly to your chapel in the cellar and prayed for my
release. I was naked and in your mind you debated the morality of my
appearance. I was sick and you knelt and thanked God for your health. I was
homeless and you preached to me of a spiritual shelter of the love of God.
I was lonely and you left me alone to pray for me. You seemed so holy, so
close to God, but I�m sill very hungry and lonely and cold.�
Acceptance is what is wanted! How many have taken their first drink, or
smoked their first joint to be accepted! We need to find things that can
be approved in people. With our acceptance comes the power to change!
Jesus example was one of acceptance and love. Jesus said he came to heal
the sick, not the well. SDB�s need to also be about Jesus mission of
healing the sick!
In conclusion Ron shared the story of Janie and her broken relationship
with her dad. In his dying moments he wrote these reconciling words: �My
dearest, I forgive you, and I know that you love me; I love you too!� Can
SDBs make these our words of love to the lost world?
Thursday worship inspiring and challenging
by a bystander (otherwise known as Vicki Burdick)
Mandy and Erik Henry opened the closing business meeting with a song from
their new CD, �Water to Wine.�
President Bevis introduced Phil Hazen from Maryland to share his concern
about the Plainfield, NJ, Church. During this past year a church trustee
and their building contractor embezzled over $100,000 from the church
endowment fund. All of us were encouraged to send both dollars and prayers
for these faithful servants.
Pastor Bevis then called for Thursday�s minutes, which were read and
accepted. The election of the three Memorial Fund trustees was done by
printed ballot. (Reid Mattison, Owen Probasco, and Don Graffius were
elected.)
The Courtesies Committee report was read by Larry Watt. Thanks were given
to all who helped to prepare for and carry out 1998 General Conference.
(Please refer to the 1998 Yearbook for more information). It was accepted.
The Young Adult Interest Committee report was read by John Mark Camenga
with the following recommendations:
1. That the YA Interest Committee meet once at Conference other than the
committee times so that they can be involved in other committees.
2. That the YA Bible Studies be continued at Conference.
3. That a YA Praise and Worship time be set aside after the evening worship
service at Conference.
4. That Jeff Rood chair the YA Executive Committee and Kristina James
report to the Board of Christian Education.
The report was accepted.
Reference and Counsel report was read by Patti Wethington with
recommendations as follow:
1. To accept General Council�s rec. A (sites) PASSED
2. To accept GC rec. B (new candidate churches; All Nations, CA and
Blountville, TN) PASSED
3. To accept GC rec. B (new candidate churches; Colorado Springs, CO,
Community Church in Inglewood, CA, and Cornerstone Church in Tupelo, MS)
and to refer the West Palm Beach, FL Church to General Council. PASSED
4. That all �guidelines� of church candidates be solidified. PASSED
5. That Oklahoma City, OK Church be removed from the rolls. PASSED
6. That Rodney Henry be confirmed as Interim Executive Secretary. PASSED
7. That the new procedural manual be sent to each church for a six-month
review. PASSED
8. That the United in Service Vision be referred back to General Council.
PASSED
9. PASSED
10.That the make-up of General Council be changed from 3 to 4 years and
from 6 to 8 elected members. AMENDED TO SEND TO WHOLE GC- PASSED
11. To accept the General Council report PASSED
President John Bevis closed the 1998 session with the bang of his gavel.
All dressed up with somewhere to go
by Miriam Lawton
As I left my dorm, I felt like a princess. The light blue chiffon on my
dress gently blew in the wind. My friends beside me looked wonderful. Off
we went. Across the street, down the sidewalk, and (no, not into my pumpkin
carriage) through the front doors of the huge building. We made our way to
the third floor, and were met by friends who looked fabulous. The grand
piano in the front of the huge room gently sang.
All throughout the room I could hear comments like, �Wow! You look so
good!� and �Let�s take some pictures!� After everyone was seated, we opened
with prayer. By rows, everyone eventually was able to serve themselves at a
buffet. The food was wonderful, and the company was even better. Everyone
looked so great! During the meal, we had the pleasure of listening while
Ruth Anne Cain and Peter Osborn sang to us. Each was accompanied by Brett
Greene. The music really added to the whole experience.
After we were all finished eating, Pastor Steve Osborn (Steve-O) spoke to
us. He challenged us to truly do great things for God. He stressed the fact
that we, as the youth of the Seventh Day Baptist denomination, can do great
things for God now. He told us to get serious, stop caring only about
ourselves, and to dream HUGE. He reminded us that we can do marvelous
things for God if we let him.
The youth banquet this year was once again a great experience. Not only
was it a time to have fun and fellowship, but we also (got to eat!) learned
more about living as youth. Thank you so much to everyone who planned and
participated in the youth banquet and Conference this year. We all enjoyed
it.
Youth find Bible Study informative and challenging
by Nathanael Lawton
The youth Bible studies this week of Conference were squeezed between
lunch and meetings, scheduled for 12:30 on Monday through Thursday.
However, running behind, being late to interest committees, and cutting
Thursday�s session short to make the SCSC program could not prevent the
youth attending from learning some important stuff.
Over the four days, Pastor Don Chroniger presented a study on hearing
God�s voice. He said that humans had three parts: spirit, soul, and body (1
Thess. 5:22-23). Then he talked about how God contacts humans at their
spirits because humans are lead by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8). Next, Pastor
Chroniger said something that every one in the room knew: many times people
focus heavily on the body and neglect the spirit, when people should be
fostering the spirit which will last forever.
How could someone work on nurturing his spirit? First of all, he must
become holy before God through accepting salvation by faith and have God�s
spirit come into contact with his. Next, that person would need to foster
his relationship with God through prayer, study, praise, etc. As someone
spends time with God and offers his body as a living sacrifice, his mind is
renewed, seeing things in the world in a new light and becoming more
responsive to God�s voice.
So how does God speak? God can speak in many ways including but not
limited to: the Bible, someone�s conscience, event�s in someone�s live, and
sometimes even actual words like, �Noah, I want you to build and ark.�
Okay, that�s cool, but what if a Christian can�t hear God? Five possible
problems were presented:
Unbelief: If some one prays and talks at God, but doesn�t believe that
there will be an answer, that person may not be receptive to God�s voice.
The example used was from Acts of how those who had been praying for Peter
to be let out of prison did not accept the affirmative answer and told
Rhoda she was mistaken in saying Peter was out of prison and at the door.
They had been praying, but at first couldn�t realize the answer. Christians
need to count on God to answer.
Spiritual deafness: Sometimes not forgiving someone can foster bitterness.
This unresolved matter can grow and fester, eventually covering up what God
may be saying. The �cure� in this case would be to forgive.
Underdeveloped spirit: Bodies grow and become better able to deal with the
world. Spirits, if properly fed and exercised through time with God,
trials, study, and so forth will grow. If someone�s spirit isn�t fed, it
won�t grow and be able to hear God. Prayer and Bible study are important.
Callous spirit: When someone continually hears God�s voice and says no,
his spirit can become seared and calloused like a guitar player�s fingers.
Callouses do not sense very well, and neither does a calloused spirit hear
God�s voice. One would need to say yes to God and pray for a healing of his
spirit.
Neglect: When athletes train, they practice and exercise to build up their
bodies. The same is true of the spirit. If it doesn�t exercise through
study and time spent with God, it can get out of shape and not be receptive
to God�s voice. Prayer, study, and time with God could help to train
someone�s spirit.
The youth were exposed to some important material, and now they need to
put it into practice.
National Missions: �A hotbed of activity�
by Victoria L. Burdick
G.Kirk Looper, president of Missionary Society, introduced Pastor Ron
Elston who told us a little of his activities of the past year starting
with several months in Tupelo, Mississippi at the Cornerstone church during
their building process.
Ron introduced the National Field Development Team, consisting of
Theresa Johnson, Gordon and Beverly Kilts, and encouraged all of us to
become Dedicated Field Workers (Pastors and lay leaders alike).
There are five church workers involved in the SDB Polity Training module:
Pastor Bill Burks, Rev. and Mrs. Mynor Soper, Kirk Looper and himself.
He welcomed all who were interested in field work to contact the
Missionary Society or himself and he was encouraged that so many have
spoken with him at Conference about their desires and needs.
Pastor Elston brought us up to date on the Stonefort, IL Church (growing
and revitalized), Champaign, IL (church planting), and Owensboro, KY, whose
pastor, David Bell, spoke to us of his journey to the Sabbath.
Rev. Don Sanford, Historian, was recognized by the Society for his work in
exposing the outside world to the history of SDBs.
In closing, Pastor Ron challenged us to �keep up the good work.�
Bible study focuses on love, understanding
by Donna S. Bond
Friday morning's Bible study "Chosen to Love and Be Loved," was opened by
some good ol' Southern Gospel singing by the Brothers in Christ quartet
headquartered in central New York state. The audience was blessed with the
songs, "I Read the Back of the Book and We Win," "I'll Worship Only at the
Feet of Jesus," and "Teach Me, Lord, to Wait." Pastor Steven James led in
prayer, asking God to bless the Bible teacher and our Conference day.
President John Bevis introduced the Paint Rock Church Moderator, Lonnie
Hendrix, who is also licensed to preach. Mr. Hendrix expressed pleasure at
attending his first Conference, especially with a view toward the unity he
sees among us despite our many differences. He then described his church in
Paint Rock as a model for the kind of love God has chosen for us to
demonstrate, using a number of New Testament passages (John 15; Rom. 14;
Eph. 4; 1 Cor. 12-13; and 1 John 4).
God has called us to be a "peculiar people," different from the world. How
do we show that we are different from the world? The world separates over
differences; Christians are commanded to love one another as God has loved
us. We are to discuss our differences in love, understanding that we all
have diverse gifts, talents, and levels of understanding and ability.
None of us has all the truth and none of us is in a position to ridicule,
criticize or condemn the other for having a different perspective on any
issue or practice. We will all be judged by the same standards at the
throne of God, who will take our differences into account in his perfect
wisdom.
Mr. Hendrix reminded us that we have a responsibility to stand firn on
personal convictions, even if we stand alone. However, we have an equal
responsibility not to use our convictions to alienate or offend our
brothers. This takes considerable effort, commitment and dedication. He
also reminded us that our spiritual gifts are for the edification of the
Church and that they are worthless if we do not love.
Finally, Mr. Hendrix urged us to "grieve not the Holy Spirit," but to put
bitterness and malice away, replacing them with tenderheartedness and
forgiveness. He closed the session with prayer, thanking God for the unity
and love we have here at Conference that we might be truly different from
the world.
Friday a.m. brings another line from the TCC
by Paul Manuel
(and committee)
As the week progresses, the burning question on everyone's mind is: "What
will the Tract and Communication Council program be like this year?" Under
Kevin Butler's capable leadership, this group has given consistently
creative and captivating presentations to each Conference gathering.
Anticipating no less this year, the Conference participants--whose number
has swelled, doubtless in eager anticipation of this highlight of the
business festivities--have spoken of almost nothing else. Kevin himself was
understandably excited, as the momentous day approached, and could be heard
muttering, "Is it Friday yet?" This year's program faced stiff competition
from the Memorial Board, whose imaginative offering in the form of a quiz
for our illustrious president, placed difficult financial concepts within
the grasp of the fiscally challenged.
Using the format of "What's My Line?," the well-known television game
show, a panel of distinguished guests interviewed famous members from the
TCC. The panel consisted of Cheri Appel (aka Kiwi Orange) the Valley Girl
Barbie Doll, Andrew Samuels the Sleeping Prophet, Jim Skaggs the Partisan
Political Analyst, Jeanne Yurke the Techno-Nerdette. (These characters were
reminiscent of the fairytale characters: Dopey, Sleepy, Grumpy, and Doc.)
The contestants included Joel Osborn (Web Master), who turned out not to be
a communist. Doreen Davis (Co-Chairman of the Sabbath Recorder Committee)
appeared, albeit without her husband, Honey Hunk the Truck Driver. After a
commercial starring Steve Osborn, who decided that the price was right,
Dean Fox (Tracts/Tracks/Trax Publications Committee) confessed not to be a
heroin addict. Last but not least was the mystery guest, Larry Graffius,
world-renowned author of True to the Sabbath, True to Our God, who receives
considerable financial remuneration for his work . . . which you can still
purchase for only $9.95 (plus shipping).
Through the TCC's presentation, the audience learned about several aspects
of the committee's work (including some unusual and useless background
information on its personnel). We look forward to future programs, which
will surely inspire and titillate Conference audiences.
Men decide it's time for their own banquet
by Dustin Riley
Every year during conference there is a lot of business to attend to.
People attend various seminars and Bible studies all week learning how to
take their churches to a higher level. However, as we all know conference
is about much more. Various fellowship times such as the Women's Banquet
and the Youth Banquet have been time-honored events. But what about the
men? Why do we get the short end of the stick? On July 30, 1998 a small
group of men decided that this shall happen no more.
Feeling that we have been slighted out of a banquet all these years, we
decided it was about time that we had our own. First we had to decide on a
restaurant. The only seemingly appropriate place for the banquet was the
Western Steer. Now to the next order of business: Dress attire. For the
Women's and Youth Banquets the attendees get out their best outfits and
look absolutely stunning. Trust me, I've seen them. However, we felt to
truly have a men's banquet, we had dress like men. So donned in our most
prestigious under-shirts and shorts, we headed toward the restaurant.
I could imagine the fright of the headwaitress as she saw two cars pull
quickly into the drive and unload 14 poorly dressed, grunting men. So when
we asked if we could have a separate room for our banquet, she was most
eager to oblige.
Beef was in abundance that night, as almost everyone ordered a steak of
some type. Even I put aside my usual habits of avoiding red meat so that
the spirit of masculinity would be alive. It was a great night of bonding
as we shared hunting stories and compared scars. The testosterone was
practically oozing off the walls. It was great! After being lead by the spirit (or perhaps it was his steak) our
guest speaker, Eric Davis, told the gory story of Ehud, and how the evil
tyrant of the Moabites was killed to free Israel. The moral of the story
was that sometimes something different is needed to achieve. The story also
brought conversation of how we need to be men of action and start taking
responsibilities in church. All in all the First Annual Unofficial Men's
Banquet was a success. Next year the theme is piracy, so instead of
grunting, we will all snarl like pirates. Hope to see you there!
Announcements
Conference registration as of noon Friday � 734
Talent offering update � $4,150
SCSC Craft Sales as of 1 p.m. Friday � $1,078.25
Sabbath Schedule
9:00 Sabbath School
10:30 Worship
Leader Pastor John Camenga
Message Pastor Gabriel Bejjani
12:30 Dinner
2:00 Children's presentation
Recognitions and Awards
Voices of Praise concert
5:00 Supper
7:00 Installation of New
President, Norma Rudert
Sabbath Offering
Make checks payable to SDB Denominational Budget.
Prayer Concerns
Pray for Rick Fenstermacher who will be having eye surgery on Tuesday,
August 4. Pray for a successful surgery and quick healing.
There will be no Crier tomorrow. We are looking forward to a Sabbath rest.
Chosen
Heirs
Obedient
Servants
Exciting
News
Thank you to everyone who helped me out during Junior High Conference. It
was greatly appreciated.
Cathy Cruzan
Thanks!
We wish to thank Calvin and Maleta Babcock for all of their fine help with
printing the Crier and for training Bob Harris on using the Reisograph.
We also thank all who volunteered to write, collate, type and assist with
duplicating. To those of you who collated today�s Crier, obviously we
couldn�t list your names, but we appreciate your hard work. (We know,
folding 1500 sheets isn�t easy!)
..........................................................................
Crier Staff
Editors: Linda and Bob Harris
E-mail delivery: Dave Taylor
Web page setup: Joel Osborn
Vicki Burdick, typing
Computer: Doneta Osborn
Monday Collating:
Natalie
Brittany
Raphael Vernon
Tsahai Samuels
Shannon Rose
Ange Rose
Letitia Loney
Jessica Molina
Cortney Charlery
Tuesday Collating:
Ben Harris
Cindy Nadeau
Venita Zinn
Jeanette Clement
Annette Merritt
Wednesday Collating:
Ben Harris
Harold King
David Clarke
Joel Osborn
Thursday Collating:
Jeannette Clement
Annetta Merritt
Venita Zinn
Anne Lastinger
Dodi Moncrief
Steve Moncrief
Tillie Dickinson
Melvin Dickinson
David Ray
Cindy Nadeau
Send comments/suggestions to:
..........................................................................
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|>=> `HHoo ooHH' when I will make a new covenant. >=>|
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|>=> `V' Jeremiah 31:31-33 * Hebrews 8:10 >=>|
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