Elisabet Kirkland Page 7

04 Feb

GROWING TOGETHER: PLANTING SEEDS OF FRIENDSHIP AND FAITH IN SOUTHEAST COLORADO

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RMCNews with Mary Bennett – Lamar, Colorado … The second quarterly event of southeast Colorado’s “Women in Community” was held as a luncheon at a local restaurant in Lamar, Colorado, February 2. Ten women from the region gathered to share a meal and reminisced about childhood experiences, growing in numbers from six that attended the event in October in La Junta, Colorado.

The coordination of these gatherings is being led by Mary Bennett with support of regional pastor Ted Williams, lead pastor at the Arkansas Valley, Lamar, and Trinidad Seventh-day Adventist churches in southeast Colorado, and as part of the North American Division’s Pentecost 2025 evangelism initiative.

“Women are the ones who actually built the early churches by bringing family and communities together,” reminded Williams.

To participate in the events, women are encouraged to bring a friend that is not already part of the local Adventist church. “[These lunches] are for women who probably see each other in their local areas to get to know each other and build community,” remarked Bennett.

Bennett commented that she has been guided by the Bible verse Acts 16:14-16 in her efforts with the group: Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us (NKJV).

“I hope that this will eventually become a ministry at the local churches,” Bennett continued. “I want to show people that you don’t have to spend a lot of money, or have a big elaborate plan, you just need to spend time together. We are doing lunches for now, but if we come up with a better plan, we will do it.”

—Mary Bennett writes from the Arkansas Valley, Lamar, and Trinidad Seventh-day Adventist Churches. Photos supplied.

Invitations for the program are provided as a 3-D printed card with reference to the Biblical verses of Acts 16:14-15.
03 Feb

EXPLORING THE VITAL ROLE OF CHURCH ELDERS: INSIGHTS FROM VANESSA ALARCÓN

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Jose Briones – Denver, Colorado … In the latest episode of “Living Generously,” Jose Briones, RMC Stewardship Promotion and Content creator, had the pleasure of sitting down with Vanessa Alarcón, an elder at the Boulder Seventh-day Adventist Church in Boulder, Colorado, to discuss the crucial role of church elders. This role has evolved from biblical times to meet the modern needs of church communities, and Vanessa shared invaluable insights into its multifaceted nature.

Vanessa begins by explaining that the responsibilities of elders vary depending on the size of the church but generally include preaching and visitation. Elders work closely with pastors to serve the congregation effectively. “A church thrives with elders because we support the mission. We’re like the fuel for what the church mission can do,” she stated, emphasizing how elders drive the church’s initiatives forward.

One of the most significant points Vanessa highlighted was the concept of the “priesthood of all believers.” This principle, deeply rooted in New Testament Biblical teachings, states that every believer is called to share the Good News, not just pastors or elders. Vanessa’s journey as an elder is a testament to this theology, demonstrating the positive impact that diverse leadership can have on a church. She noted that her church has progressed because of its diversity in age and experiences, highlighting the inclusive nature of eldership.

Vanessa’s insights into the practical responsibilities of elders emphasized a deep connection with Christ and being present within the church community. She believes that an elder must be centered in their walk with Christ, leading by example, and maintaining a strong connection with God.

The episode also shed light on the importance of cross-generational eldership. Vanessa shared her surprise and joy at witnessing a younger elder being ordained for the first time. She stressed the need for churches to embrace leadership that spans all ages, pointing out that, without opportunities for multiple generations to participate in church leadership, valuable perspectives and contributions could be lost.

Elders play a pivotal role in grounding the church, fostering spiritual growth, and supporting the mission through their service. Vanessa’s experience demonstrates that anyone, regardless of age or gender, can be called to serve as an elder. This inclusivity and shared responsibility underscore the heart of the church’s mission today.

CLICK HERE to listen to the full episode, and CLICK HERE to see the full list of previous and future series episodes. To listen to the full podcasts on YouTube, CLICK HERE.

—Jose Briones is the RMC Stewardship Promotion and Content creator. Photo by Jsme Mila of Pexels.

03 Feb

CAMPION SENIORS REFLECT ON PUTTING FAITH OVER FEAR

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Alexandra Cordoba – Loveland, Colorado … Parents, staff, and students of Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, celebrated this year’s senior class with a recognition service Friday night and a student-led Sabbath worship service, January 24-25.

In an annual tradition, each staff member spoke about the senior students, highlighting their unique characters and acknowledging their accomplishments during the recognition service.

The next day, the seniors led the church worship service with the senior praise team leading out. CA senior students Toby Quillin, Keon Paez, and Alexandra Cordoba performed the song “Redeemer” for special music. Brayden Marroquin gave the children’s story.

Seniors Marcela Zuniga, Jack Jordan, Jack Ramos, and Damaris Lopez Morquecho delivered sermonettes based on the class theme of Faith over Fear, and each senior shared reasons on how faith can conquer fear.

Jordan concluded the sermons by giving out pieces of paper to the congregation and asking them to write down their biggest fear.  Above the fear he asked participants to write: “I choose to put faith over fear”, as a reminder that Jesus conquers all.

—Alexandra Cordoba, Campion Academy Student News Team. Photos supplied.

03 Feb

FROM THE NORTH AMERICAN DIVISION OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: AN APPEAL FOR HUMAN DIGNITY AND DECENCY

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Alexander Bryant, Kyoshin Ahn, Judy R. Glass – Columbia, Maryland … There are many in the United States who are afraid for their futures, and for the lives of family members. As a Christian denomination in the U.S., the Seventh-day Adventist Church supports the rights of all persons, no matter their country of origin—the equal rights provided in the U.S. Constitution and fair treatment as immigrants and refugees in this country.

As members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we believe that “we are all equal in Christ, who by one Spirit has bonded us into one fellowship with Him and with one another; we are to serve and be served without partiality or reservation” (Fundamental Belief No. 14).

“We maintain our allegiance to the biblical principles of equality and dignity of all human beings in the face of historic and continuing attempts to use skin color, place of origin, caste, or perceived lineage as a pretext for oppressive and dominating behavior. These attempts are a denial of our shared humanity, and we deplore all such aggression and prejudice as an offense to God” (Seventh-day Adventist Church statement “One Humanity: A Human Relations Statement Addressing Racism, Casteism, Tribalism, and Ethnocentrism”).

The Bible declares that in Christ there is neither Jew nor gentile, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female—all are one in Christ Jesus (Gal. 3:28). We are one humanity. Dehumanization and margination by law or the implementation of the laws or policies are diametrically opposed to the Bible. Therefore, it is inhumane and robs people of their God-given dignity in Christ to have policies that make them afraid to go to church and school because of the threat of being deported.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America encourages its churches and schools to be warm and welcoming places for all people. All are created by God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

In light of the fact that we have a shared humanity, in light of the fact we all are created equal, in light of the fact we should love our neighbor as ourselves, and in light of the fact that Jesus said, “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matt. 25:40, NIV), our appeal is for us, as Adventists, to show our immigrant families that we love them by lifting up our voices and standing by their side in these times of uncertainty.

Our appeal to our policymakers and government leaders is found in The Seventh-day Adventist Church Manual (p. 92): “All are in search of wholeness. All are gifted, needed, and treasured. All are created in the image of God with an inherent dignity regardless of any limitation they may have.” Therefore, let our laws and the implementation of our laws treat all of God’s children, who are created in His image, with the dignity and decency they deserve.

Guidelines for pastors and school leaders, through the document “Guidance on Immigration Enforcement Activity on Church and School Property,” from the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists Office of General Counsel, can be found by CLICKING HERE.

—G. Alexander Bryant is president, Kyoshin Ahn is executive secretary, and Judy R. Glass is treasurer/CFO of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. Republished by permission from North American Division News post, January 31, 2025. Photo by Mick Haupt of Unsplash.

30 Jan

FROM PRAYER TO PURPOSE: LITTLETON’S NEW MENS MINISTRY FOCUSES ON FAITH, COMMUNITY, AND SERVICE

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Michael Hansen – Littleton Seventh-day Adventist Church in Littleton, Colorado, held its first annual Men’s Prayer Breakfast in the conference center of AdventHealth Littleton, January 26. It was the launch of a focused Men’s Ministry at the church after months of preparation.

Nathan Helm, longtime elder at Littleton Church, has been leading a men’s Sabbath School for several years. After meeting with Mike Hansen, a church member, last fall, the two decided to begin planning an early 2025 launch of a ministry focused on serving the men of the congregation.

Utilizing a program model from the organization Blueprint for Men*, a Christ-centered, relationship-based men’s ministry, Hansen led the prayer breakfast for the starting event of this ministry.

“Of course, we made sure prayer was included in an event with ‘prayer’ in the name,” remarked Hansen. “I also shared a vision for the upcoming year with a focus on having men involved in our inaugural small group.”

Hansen will be leading the men in a virtual group using the study from Better Man*—a ministry for men with free online resources. “With this particular curriculum, their ‘CORE’ study is 11 sessions, and all the material is available to download, so there is little friction to participating,” says Hansen. “The only barrier could be time, which is why I decided to make this a virtual group.”

Besides the small group, other ways the men will connect will be through outdoor activities and events along with serving the church and community together. Hansen adds, “Doing something with a common goal or mission can bond men together like nothing else can. Especially if it involves the outdoors.”

“I am excited to see where God leads us,” he continues. “This is something I have given a lot thought to and I am passionate about. It serves our men, is aligned with our church, and can reach the community.”

* Please note that Blueprint for Men and Better Man and their publications and media are not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) nor the Seventh-day Adventist denomination. 

—Michael Hansen is a member of the Littleton Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.

29 Jan

FROM RESISTANCE TO RENEWAL: ONE MAN’S INSPIRING JOURNEY

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Jose Briones – Colorado Springs, Colorado … Manuel Dominguez Palmero, a devoted member of a local Adventist church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has seen his life profoundly transformed over the past 26 years.

His journey into the Adventist faith began when he was just 22, a time when he was deeply entrenched in worldly distractions. It all started when missionaries visited his home. They came to give Bible studies and offer Godly counsel.

While his wife welcomed them, Manuel was initially resistant, finding ways to avoid engaging. He made all sort of excuses to get out of the Bible studies. However, their persistence and the influence of a woman who would become his “spiritual mother” gradually softened his heart. One pivotal day, Manuel finally listened to their message, and the Holy Spirit touched him deeply. He knew he had found his place.

On December 4, 1998, Manuel and his wife made their first visit to an Adventist church in Cuba. The warm reception from the congregation and the beauty of the hymns left a lasting impression.

Manuel, who had previously enjoyed secular music, found the hymns particularly moving and felt an immediate connection to the church. “Living a Christian life is the greatest joy,” Manuel reflects. “The world offers momentary happiness, but the joy and fulfillment I find in my faith are unparalleled.”

Living a Christian life has brought Manuel immense joy and fulfillment. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges the chaotic and unfulfilling nature of his life before Christ. He urges those who are undecided to choose Christ, stressing that the world offers only fleeting happiness, whereas God fills the void in our hearts.

Manuel, an elder at the Colorado Springs Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church, emphasizes the importance of family worship, both morning and evening, as a source of strength and grounding. He encourages fellow believers to pray, study the Bible, and remain steadfast in their faith. “Family worship gives us the strength to face the day,” he says. “You can’t thrive on a single meal a week, and similarly, you can’t sustain your spiritual life with just one church service. Daily connection with God is essential.”

Looking to the future, Manuel reminds his fellow believers that Christ is coming soon. He urges them to remain faithful, for when the time comes, they will join Him in the Eternal Mansion, prepared for those who have lived according to God’s word. Watch Manuel’s story below.

—Jose Briones is lead pastor at the Fairplay Seventh-day Adventist Church and is the RMC Stewardship Promotion and Content creator. Photo capture from RMC’s “Always Faithful” video series.

28 Jan

REFLECTION: ARE YOU PREPARED TO EVACUATE?

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By Cathy Kissner

“Prepare to Evacuate!” are orders that none of us want to hear. Yet is that not what Christ has told us do to?   We often say as Christians, “Get ready for Christ to come,” yet we do little. How do we prepare for the evacuation Christ given us?

  • Dwell daily in His presence through His Word
  • Seek the Holy Spirit and His indwelling in your heart
  • Praying continually to be guided
  • Praying for those God has laid on our hearts—family, friends, coworker, church family
  • Doing the work He has called you to—each job description is written for that individual

We, as Seventh-day Adventist, believe the Holy Spirit is withdrawing for the earth, therefore, we should not be surprised nor shocked by deprived human behavior, the increase of “natural disasters,” or the lack of Godliness in the occupants of the world. We are to prepare to evacuate this world. Not only this world but be prepared to evacuate our homes when the order comes.

So, how do we prepare to evacuate our homes? When the human mind begins to fear, fear takes over and can lead to irrational behavior. That is why it is important to have a plan in place before an emergency arises.

CLICK HERE for a suggested Emergency Evacuation Plan with details on what items to gather depending on the amount of time you have to safely evacuate. It sounds so simple, but, if you have a plan, it can work.

—Cathy Kissner is the RMC Adventist Community Services Coordinator. Photo by Justus Menke of Pexels.

28 Jan

CAMPION COMES OUT ON TOP AT DENVER NUGGET’S BALL ARENA

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Campion News – Denver, Colorado … Sports fans of Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado, were all smiles after both the girls’ and boys’ varsity basketball teams won their games against Mile High Academy in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on the Denver Nuggets court at Ball Arena, January 23. To top off the evening, the students got to watch the Denver Nuggets NBA team beat the Sacramento Kings.

It has been two years since Campion played at Ball Arena, so it was thrilling for the players to have a chance to compete on a professional court. “I felt pretty excited to play on an NBA court,” recalled Izuchi Nwankwo, a junior starter on the boys’ team who was playing there for the first time. “That was really cool!”

Sarah Rushold, starting point guard for the girls’ team, shared, “I feel like we played well as a team! We never got down on each other for any mistakes we made. I’m so glad we got to play at the Ball Arena!”

Recalling the boys’ game, EJ Woy, starting senior on the team, said “I was so excited! I felt like I was on fire at first. Although our team could be better on some things, we did well on keeping our composure. Whenever the other team started catching up, we kept our cool and stayed calm and finished the game strong.”

The students look forward to this big event each year. “It’s a bittersweet moment knowing it was my last time playing there,” said Damaris Lopez-Morquecho, senior on the girls’ team.

Josh Makizimana commented, “I felt good and a little emotional as I am a senior and this is my last time playing at Ball Arena. However, Campion played an excellent game, and we finished with the win.”

—Campion News. Photos supplied.

28 Jan

CATALYST 18+: FAITH IN ACTION

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Agape Hammond – Parker, Colorado … The Catalyst 18+ Sabbath School class at Newday Adventist Church in Parker, Colorado, is more than a Bible study group—it is a community of young people navigating the transition from middle and high school students into the next chapter of life. This group offers a space to grow spiritually, build meaningful connections, and engage in service that reflects God’s love.

Catalyst 18+ members exemplified their mission by serving the unhoused at The Salvation Army-Crossroads Center in Denver, Colorado, January 25. “With hearts full of compassion and hands ready to help, the group worked from November through January to make a difference in the lives of those in need,” remarked Agape Hammond, Newday’s Social Media and Communications director.

The volunteers distributed much-needed items, including gloves, socks, and sweatshirts—all of which had been donated by the Newday Church community. One man’s simple yet heartfelt words captured the spirit of the day as he wheeled away, stocked up with gloves, socks, and a beanie: “Thank you, lady, for helping the poor people.”

In addition to clothing, the group handed out bags filled with a burrito, water, tissues, and copies of Ellen G. White’s Steps to Christ. The long line of people in need was a sobering reminder of the ongoing demand for help.

One volunteer with the Catalyst 18+ group commented that they felt blessed to be part of the outreach, while spending time with fellow church members and making new friends, deepening bonds through shared service. Together, the Catalyst 18+ team ensured that no one was left out that service day, providing not just material support but also moments of connection.

Another volunteer that connected strongly with the community was Jeneane. Her bold faith led her to approach many individuals, offering prayer and a loving handshake. In a moment that reinforced the power of empathy, one of the men being served broke down in tears, saying, “I needed this.”

The experience left a lasting impression on both the volunteers and those they served. As Esther, a group volunteer, reflected, “It was a privilege using Sabbath for God’s work,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve warm meals and recognize her own blessings.

Another lesson the group learned is that we are part of a wider community of believers that care. For instance, Jorge, a close friend of Esther’s visiting from Peru, shared how similar acts of kindness are common in his home country, saying, “Es gratificante, siendo parte de este grupo y conociendo otra iglesia, promoviendo el nombre de nuestra iglesia.” (“It is rewarding to be part of this group, getting to know another church, and promoting the name of our church.”)

While there, they also met Eric, a member of the Arvada Seventh-day Adventist Church, who, along with several others, has been faithfully helping at the Crossroads Center on the third Saturday of each month.

His consistent involvement emphasizes the importance of sustained service and the vital role volunteers play in meeting the ongoing needs of the unhoused community. Volunteer Coco shared that, for her, the blessing was in connecting with another church on a similar mission, finding encouragement in being part of a larger community united in service.

For the Catalyst 18+ group, this day of service was more than a one-time event—it was a living example of their commitment to faith, action, and compassion. By stepping out to serve, they not only brought hope to those in need but also strengthened their own spiritual journeys, making a difference in the world one act of kindness at a time.

—Agape Hammond is Social Media and Communications director for the Newday Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.

27 Jan

ADVENTHEALTH PARKER BREAKS GROUND ON MAJOR EXPANSION

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AdventHealth – Parker, Colorado … AdventHealth Parker unveiled a $300 million expansion project today. Currently a 179-bed hospital, AdventHealth Parker has served the southeast Denver metro area and beyond for nearly 21 years.

The new 186,000 square foot tower will include:

  • Four operating rooms (and two additional rooms that will be shelled for future use)
  • 16 pre- and post-operative rooms
  • 60 new medical/surgical beds
  • Two cardiac catheterization labs
  • Two interventional radiology labs
  • A new sterile processing department
  • The 5th, 6th, and 7th floors will be shelled as future patient bed floors

Construction is expected to begin in February 2025, with plans to care for the first patient by February 2027.

According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Parker has grown by 72% since AdventHealth Parker first opened in 2004 and is expected to grow another 8% by the time the tower opens in 2027.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to support our community by providing outstanding and accessible care, close to home,” said AdventHealth Parker CEO, Michael Goebel. “This strategic investment will not only elevate our services but ensure we are meeting the healthcare needs of our patients for years to come.”

AdventHealth Parker is currently the town’s largest employer, with more than 1,100 employees. When the tower opens, it is expected to create at least 100 additional jobs.

“Our goal within AdventHealth is to be a preeminent healthcare system known for whole-person care,” said AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region CEO, Brett Spenst. “With this aspiration guiding us, it is our sacred duty to expand our services and continue to grow so that more people can achieve wholeness in mind, body, and spirit.”

This significant investment will enable AdventHealth Parker to deepen its commitment to the healing ministry of Christ, ensuring that we continue to serve our communities and beyond.

—AdventHealth. Republished with permission from the AdventHealth The Newsroom website. Photos supplied.

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