Columbia Union Conference officers and departmental directors provide guidance, support and a sense of unity among members and ministries. What’s their role, and what challenges and opportunities do they see ahead?
Secretariat & Ministerial
News
Editorial by Celeste Ryan Blyden
The other night, while searching the online Visitor archives, I got caught up reading the carefully chronicled history of our Columbia Union people. From the headlines, articles, photos and captions, it appears that our predecessors were some of the most Bible-knowing, Ellen White-quoting, ministry-supporting, missionary-loving, church-planting, potluck-hosting, camp meeting-going, organizing and evangelizing people you’ll ever meet. The theme woven through story after story, issue after issue, and event after event, was their palpable love for Jesus and commitment to sharing His message and carrying forward His mission.
Keith Ingram, pastor of the Pennsylvania Conference's Bucks County and Fairview Village churches, recently offered prayer in the Pennsylvania State Senate.
Watch the video here.
Washington Adventist University’s Music Department Chair, James Bingham, Ph.D., has announced that he is retiring at the end of this academic year. He began teaching in 1968, and has been chair of a music department in various schools for 39 years – 23 of those at Washington Adventist University (WAU).
“It seems right at this point in my life to spend more time with my dear wife, and to retire from active teaching and departmental administration,” said Bingham, who added, “I will no doubt miss the excitement and stimulation of teaching at WAU, and being part of the process of helping the University reach new heights.”
Story by Bryant Smith
One hundred years ago, the world was much different than it is today. The Temple Emmanuel church in Youngstown, Ohio, however, remains a constant force for good. The church was organized in 1917, first meeting in homes, later at a YMCA, then at a rented facility and finally in their own church building. The members of Temple Emmanuel enjoy a rich history of God’s faithfulness and blessings.
To launch their 100th anniversary month, special guest speakers were scheduled each Sabbath in January, including William T. Cox Sr., Allegheny West Conference president, and former presidents James Lewis and Henry Wright, who concluded the series and commemorated this milestone. “One hundred years is something to be incredibly proud of,” preached Wright.
Story by Paulo Macena
Jorge Aguero, New Jersy Conference Personal Ministries director, recently wrote Acts of Compassion and Faith, a practical Bible study guide. It is specifically designed for small groups or family settings. Each chapter includes three sections: a specific Bible lesson, a discovery of Jesus’ teachings and a practical way to share His messages, love and compassion. The guides are available in English and Spanish.
Story by Heidi Shoemaker
Story by Tiffany Doss
A group of college students meet twice a month at the University of Maryland (UMD) in College Park to study the Bible, share their faith and connect with Adventist students who may not have a home church. Adventist Student Fellowship (ASF) is a university- recognized Bible study group that holds a steady membership of more than 20 students. Members shine their lights on the secular campus by staying true to their convictions and sharing them with friends, classmates and professors.
Story by Jessica Beans
On Saturday, April 29, Kettering College will confer degrees and certificates on 200 students at the school’s 49th annual commencement ceremonies. The event will be held at the Dayton Convention Center. Dr. Jonathan Velasco, an alum of Kettering College and surgeon at Kettering Physician Network Surgery—Dayton Surgeons, will be the keynote speaker. This year will also commemorate Kettering College’s 50th anniversary.
Story by Donna Bigler
Washington Adventist University (WAU) is mourning the death of James William Burns III, an alumnus, former coach of the gymnastics team and head of Physical Education. He passed away last week on April 19 at the age of 84, surrounded by his family. He will long be remembered for his love of life and his positive attitude, as well as his penchant for doing handstands on the roof and his passion for running.