NewsNuggets Page 59

22 Feb

BRIDGING THE GAPS – FIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE CULTURE IN THE CHURCH

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By Rachel Ashworth … The church is made up of people from all cultures. The global church is made up of whites, blacks, Hispanic, Asian, and more. This mix of cultures is not the global church alone, but our local churches and districts.

If you are blessed enough to have many beautiful cultures in your home church, it may be difficult to connect them. It may be difficult to celebrate a culture you don’t understand. There are ways that you can, though. There are things you can do as an individual and a church family that can build bridges between the varying cultures in your congregation and in your community.

What is valuable to the culture of your church and community? How do these values compare with the values of the diverse cultures that make it up?

The truth is we’re all different. We were raised in different ways, in many different areas. Our ancestors valued things based on their upbringing and their struggles. Some of us move across states and into a different political climate completely. Some grew up in the Pacific Northwest and moved into the Bible Belt.

Culture shock is not a thing of the past. Culture shock is alive and well in our cities, states, and our churches.

So, what can we do about it?

5 ways to celebrate diversity in the church:

Get to know each other.

When someone new comes into our church or community we aim to find our common ground right away. The values, education, background, and experiences we share will immediately connect us on some level. This is our goal, but what do we do if there is little to no common ground? Get to know each other anyway! Ask questions and tell stories. Look at them in the eyes when you speak.

Break bread together.

It’s safe to say that every culture in the world makes and enjoys some kind of bread as a regular staple in their diet. So, break bread together. Invite a new family to your home for a meal, or plan a meal at your church or community center. You can take it one step further by planning a Global Food Showcase where people prepare and bring foods from their home country or childhood. Involve the whole community for a Foods from around the world event.

Plan a special Sabbath.

If you have a large number of church members who speak a different language or come from a different country, consider planning a special Sabbath service to accommodate the language, music, art, food, and more from individual cultures that make up your congregation. Let someone translate if there is a willing volunteer. This type of showcase will make your members feel special, seen, heard, and valued. It can also help them make themselves at home.

Use and promote resources and news.

Because we are part of a global church, there are resources available online for every division, in many languages, and in most cases free. Subscribe to magazines that speak to your congregation, empower them as a culture, and speak to their hopes for their home country. Pay attention to global news that might affect your congregation. Even if they are safe in your city, their heart may break for political and social unrest in their home country.

Make space for them.

I started to type “give them a job”, then I changed it to “give them a place”. What I mean, and what I think everyone needs in their home church is a space for them. This means, when you speak to your congregation from the pulpit, in your mission and goals, in evangelism, programming, and all facets of ministry, you make space for the individuals in your church to represent their cultures. Give them space and support to help with and begin ministries that appeal to their cultural needs. Make space for them in social circles, at events, and even pews to sit in. Too many people don’t feel they have a space in church simply because there is no welcome place to sit!

More than anything pray. Pray for your congregations and every culture represented therein.

Pray for unity in God’s church.

–Rachel Ashworth is a blogger for Outlook Magazine; photo by iStock

This article was originally published on the Outlook Magazine website

22 Feb

PUEBLO FIRST SHARES ITS BLESSINGS WITH COMMUNITY

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RMCNews with Anton Kapusi – Pueblo, Colorado … The Pueblo First Adventist Church is providing blessings to their neighborhood 24 hours a day through a new self-serve cabinet, called the Blessing Box, in front of the church.

The white and red cabinet can be seen from the community surrounding the church. Inside the Blessing Box are supplies for individuals who may need extra help.

Anton Kapusi, Pueblo First Church lead pastor, explained the idea, which comes from Philippians 2:4 – “Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others.” 

 The box contains grab-and-go snacks, canned soups, noodles, sauces, warm socks, blankets, and personal hygiene items, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, washcloths, and body care items.

Kapusi reflected on the project stating, “The best blessing has come from the surrounding community beginning to take part in keeping the Blessing Box filled and watched over when we are not around. We are grateful and blessed to have our community participating in this project!”

What is the expected outcome of the newly funded project?  “We have great hopes for this project going forward that we may not only relieve the immediate needs of our community but in time may be allowed to tend to their spiritual needs as well,” said Kapusi.

— RMCNews with Anton Kapusi, lead pastor at Pueblo First Adventist Church; photos supplied.

22 Feb

PATHFINDERS UNITE FOR SNOWSHOEING AND SLEDDING

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RMCNews with Jami Dove – Grand Junction, Colorado …Pathfinder clubs from the Western Slope gathered February 20 for a day of learning, fellowship, and winter fun.

The group of 40 Pathfinders, along with their leaders and parents, enjoyed the unusually-warm day at Ward Trailhead on the Grand Mesa under the picturesque blue sky while they worked on honors, reserving enough energy for sledding fun later in the day.

Pathfinders worked on their snowshoeing honor by hiking two miles in the snow, stopping along the way to work on the honor requirements, which included learning about different kinds of snowshoes, understanding how to stay safe from hypothermia, and discussing the phrase “whiter than snow” found in Psalm 51:7.

After the hike, the Rifle Pathfinder Club enjoyed their classic meal of hoagies and hot chocolate.

In the afternoon, while the children enjoyed several sledding runs on a nearby hill, club leaders could be overheard discussing how great it was to be together.

Already, leaders are planning an area-wide campout for later this year.

RMCNews with Jami Dove, member of Grand Junction Adventist Church; photos supplied

17 Feb

CASTLE ROCK ADVENTIST CHURCH WELCOMES NEW PASTOR

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RMCNews with Renae Hamstra – Castle Rock, Colorado … Castle Rock Adventist Church has been searching for a pastor for several months and suddenly realized they already had a pastor amongst them.

The church gathered on February 4 to welcome and pray over their new pastor, Edrey Santos.  Darin Gottfried, RMC vice-president of finance, led the dedication prayer.

Santos, who has been a member of Castle Rock since 2017, explains that the call to return to pastoral ministry has been one the Holy Spirit has impressed on him for several months.

He said, “I felt called to Castle Rock because of the church congregation, the community of Castle Rock itself, and of course, the tug from the Holy Spirit. The tugging has been around for several months. After much prayer, reflection, and getting the feedback of mentors, I felt it was the right time to return. And I’m so glad that I did!”

In an email to RMC staff, Lori Goebel, human resources assistant, said that “Edrey works at Porter Adventist Hospital where he serves as a staff chaplain. Previously, he served at Littleton and Parker Adventist hospitals in similar roles.”

Santos explains that his initial goal is to connect to the community. “I’m excited for the church and the community because I can tell the people of Castle Rock long for fellowship and God’s presence. Thus, the immediate goal for our church is to work internally in aligning every church leader’s personal mission to the overall mission of our church. Then, we have the hope of working externally in reaching out to the community.”

He adds that he wants the church to be known in the community by showing God’s love through outreach. “I want us to be a church that engages the community through various ministries. I believe that’s how we will grow. Lastly, I want everyone to know that Castle Rock Adventist Church will be a church that embodies Christ-like love to all that come through the doors. We welcome you to worship with us and to even consider making our church your church,” said Santos.

Santos has a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Southwestern Adventist University and a Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary. He is married to partner-in-ministry Bobbi Whitlock-Santos.

The new Castle Rock pastor wants everyone to know that “Jesus loves you. We, at Castle Rock, love you, too.”

RMCNews with Renae Hamstra, a member of Castle Rock Adventist Church; photo supplied

17 Feb

CAMPION ACADEMY COMES ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC

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By Love Pickle – Loveland, Colorado … Campion Academy’s drama class performed for parents, guests, and fellow classmates, giving a striking performance of The Sound of Music which, according to one student, captured the hearts of the audience.

The event, rescheduled from last month, was held on February 12.  As the doors opened for the performance, the CA gymnasium was quickly filled with anticipation and excitement as attendees waited to see the drama class show off their hard work.

Blessing, Campion senior who played Liesel, reflected on the event, “The Sound of Music helped me learn how to manage a stressful situation, and it also gave me a chance to do something new, since I’ve never been in a musical.” As graduation is nearing, she said, “It’s something I will never forget, and I’m glad I had the chance to perform.”

The Sound of Music helped students bond on a deeper level. Ariel, a sophomore who played Maria, explained, “It was a great experience. I was lucky to have been chosen as the lead with a great team behind me. It helped us grow together as a big family.”

It wasn’t only the performers on stage who made the evening a success. Students working behind the scenes also contributed to the success of the performance. Daniel, a senior working on set design, remarked, “Being backstage was a completely different experience than being upfront. We spent weeks preparing backgrounds and props to make the stage look as lively as possible. Although we weren’t seen, our roles were significant, and it was an overall pleasure getting to work with Ms. Johnson and my colleagues.”

Erin Johnson, drama teacher, directed the play along with the invaluable help of the assistant student director Brianna Bell. “I absolutely loved seeing the students’ hard work come to life,” exclaimed Bell. “Even though we encountered minor hiccups along the way, how the actors recovered is what made it such a great play.”

The senior class was able to use this premiere as a fundraiser by providing an unforgettable dine-in experience for attendees. The show concluded with a standing ovation from parents and students, evidence of a well-produced show, and a successful evening.

–Love Pickle is a senior at Campion Academy; photos supplied

17 Feb

CAMPION ACADEMY REMEMBERS AND HONORS TIMOTHY DIEN

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RMCNews with Campion Academy News – Loveland, Colorado … Campion students and staff joined Timothy Dien’s family and friends on February 11 to honor him, reflect on his life, and mourn the loss of their classmate and friend.

“While we are still mourning the loss of Timothy, the service provided an important opportunity for us to come together as a community,” reflected Don Reeder, Campion principal. “As we spoke of our fond memories of Timothy, we began the process of healing and moving forward. We were able to share the blessed hope that we have in the soon coming of Jesus and the reuniting of the Dien family.”

Tiffany Dien, sister of Timothy and Campion alumna, reflected on Timothy’s life during her eulogy, and Campion Academy’s select choir, Koinonia, performed for the service.

Timothy’s life will continue to impact and inspire the students at Campion Academy. At the Campion Academy Scholar’s lunch, February 13, the event was held in honor of Timothy. His family received the scholarship and awards that had already been selected for him. Darcy Force, director of alumni and development, announced that Campion Academy would have a new annual award, the Timothy Dien Award, given at graduation and honoring a student who shows academic excellence and the willingness to help others as Timothy did.

–RMCNews with Campion Academy News; photos supplied

16 Feb

Broken Heart Syndrome: Causes and Symptoms

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By AdventHealth — When you think of “a broken heart,” you probably picture someone who is devastated by a great loss. Many people experience heightened feelings of sadness and loss during the holidays. But for some, those heavy emotions can turn into physical symptoms that cause alarm.

Did you know there is a temporary heart condition called broken heart syndrome that can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack? We’re here to explain the causes of broken heart syndrome, the symptoms, who’s most at risk and how it differs from a heart attack so you can be in a better position to protect your heart.

What Causes Broken Heart Syndrome?

Broken heart syndrome is often triggered by stressful situations, extreme emotions, surgery or a serious physical injury. The stress is usually sudden and acute, emotional or physical, and quickly weakens the heart muscle from the overwhelming amount of adrenaline produced in response.

Emotional stressors that can lead to broken heart syndrome are:

  • Anger
  • Fear
  • Grief
  • Surprise

Physical stressors include:

  • Blood loss
  • Difficulty breathing
  • High fever
  • Low blood sugar
  • Seizure
  • Stroke

The majority of people who develop this condition experienced a stressful event, but about 30% of patients can’t trace an identifiable trigger when their symptoms began.

Other names for broken heart syndrome are stress cardiomyopathy, takotsubo cardiomyopathy or apical ballooning syndrome.

What are the Symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome?

Since symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack, patients, their family members, paramedics and ER physicians are often misled by broken heart syndrome. It’s important to take the symptoms seriously so you can receive proper treatment and make a full recovery.

The signs of broken heart syndrome are:

  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Racing heart
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating

The symptoms might begin within minutes of the stressful event, or hours later. It’s important to call 911 or get to the ER if you’re experiencing these symptoms.

Who is Most at Risk?

Risk factors for broken heart syndrome include:

  • Age: Most people who have broken heart syndrome are older than 50.
  • Chronic stress: People in long-term stressful situations may be more at risk for broken heart syndrome.
  • Gender: Broken heart syndrome is more common in women than in men.
  • Mental health disorder: Those with anxiety or depression may have a higher risk of broken heart syndrome.

How Does Broken Heart Syndrome Differ from a Heart Attack?

Heart attacks are typically caused by a complete or near-complete blockage of a heart artery. In broken heart syndrome, the heart arteries are not blocked. Blood flow in the arteries of the heart may be reduced. While there are rare cases of broken heart syndrome leading to death, most patients recover quickly without long-term complications.

When to See a Doctor

At AdventHealth, we’re all about healing hearts and caring for you in body, mind and spirit. If you experience broken heart syndrome, it’s important to get the right care to prevent future episodes. Many physicians recommend long-term treatment with beta-blockers or similar medications that block the potentially damaging effects of stress hormones on the heart. We’re here to protect your whole health with compassionate care in our state-of-the-art facilities. Learn more about our Heart and Vascular Care Program here.

–AdventHealth; photo supplied

This article was originally published on AdventHealth’s website

15 Feb

Every Step is for The Kids

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By Sandi Adcox – Grand Junction, Colorado … Intermountain Adventist Academy’s (IAA) board chairman, Doug McCaw II, and his wife, Melinda, are passionate about helping children in the community. They live by the motto of helping kids one step at a time.

The McCaw’s are keenly aware of the need for Christian education, the need for food for school-age children, and the need to make a positive difference in children’s lives.

Out of this need, they created an organization, Elevate Kids, and partnered with IAA and Kids Aid, two local organizations that focus on children. IAA is expanding to include grades 9 and 10 next year; Kids Aid is known for the Backpack Program, which supplies food to hungry kids during the weekend gap.

In August 2020, the McCaws gained recognition by running the Colorado Trail (490 miles from Denver to Durango) in 18 days. Their adventure was documented in a movie, “Chasing the Sky,” that was seen by hundreds of community members in local theaters. Proceeds from the movie were split between IAA and Kids Aid.

What’s next for the couple? On April 10, Elevate Kids is hosting a community fun-run fundraiser to help children. This event is being planned for all levels of runners, with three distances (2.5K, 5K, and 10K) and opportunities to race for a reward or just enjoy an activity with friends and family.

“We want everyone in the community to have the opportunity to help the kids and enjoy a memorable experience. We plan to continue this fundraiser as an annual event,” said Doug.

Melinda added, “This run will be top-notch for participants and sponsors that partner with us.” The event will include professional timing, t-shirts, bibs, photographers, medals for participants, and rewards for the winners. The gathering is being recognized by the Grand Junction community as companies have begun to sponsor the upcoming event.

Church members are also donating financially to the event. “I’m always happy to support our kids.  This is a great cause,” said Karen Fishell, Grand Junction member.

If you would like to sign up for the event, please email [email protected].

–Sandi Adcox is Grand Junction Adventist Church team member with Elevate Kids Run; photo by iStock

14 Feb

CAMPION AND MILE HIGH SPLIT GAMES AT ANNUAL BALL ARENA MATCHUP

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RMCNews – Denver, Colorado … Campion and Mile High academies faced each other February 8 on the same court where the Denver Nuggets play their annual game at Ball Arena in Denver.

The much-anticipated event returned after a forced two-year break during the pandemic.  Ball Arena had a strict Covid protocol for entering the arena, requiring proof of vaccination or a negative test.

Reflecting on the event, Love, a Campion senior, said, “Even though fellow classmates and many families couldn’t attend to cheer on the Campion Cougars, there was a tremendous amount of spirit among the players competing on such an empowering court.”

Love added, “The [Campion] girls varsity basketball team entered the arena with a determined mindset to win their last game. The girls won the game with a score of 37-22, which brought up their morale after a long season of setbacks.”

The Mile High Academy varsity boys’ team led by game MVP Wil, scored 17 points, fought hard against the Campion boys, and won 38-24.

“Our Mustangs came into the Ball Arena with so much excitement and anticipation built up over the last two years,” said Michael Camacho, MHA’s athletic director. “The teams played hard throughout the games and were able to be mentally strong and competitive against their friends at CA.”

After the games, the teams enjoyed a meal together and returned to the arena to watch the Denver Nuggets take on the New York Knicks.

Camacho was grateful for the experience and, most importantly, the bonds formed between Campion and Mile High Academy.

“We are very grateful for this experience and for all of [the] fans who came out to support. We were able to get one win but, most importantly, still hold [on to] our friendship and sportsmanship with Campion Academy above all else.”

–RMCNews; photos courtesy of Campion and Mile High Academy

This article was adapted from an article in Campion Academy’s newsletter and a Facebook post by Mile High Academy.

10 Feb

Brighton Academy Blesses Brighton’s First Responders

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By Jodie Aakko – Brighton, Colorado … Students and staff at Brighton Adventist Academy (BAA) in Brighton, Colorado, asked themselves the question, ‘How can we say thank you to the team of police officers and firefighters that serve the community daily, rain or shine?’  The answer was simple: create blessing bags and deliver them with smiles.

Students from BAA and Little Lambs Learning Center eagerly gathered on February 2 to help assemble the bags, filling them with various snacks, including hot chocolate packets, popcorn bags, chips, candies, fruit cups, drinks, and more to show appreciation to the first responders who protect the community. The activity was more than a community-appreciation event; it was part of their Bible labs learning.

Caleb, a seventh-grader, enjoyed assembling the bags. “It was cool, and there was a lot of good stuff for the bags! It is important to help others.”

Emiliano, a fourth-grader, helped supply items for the gifts. “It was nice to make the bags. I am glad that we brought a lot of gifts from home to make the bags full!”

Kiera, a fourth-grader, said, “It felt good because the stuff we put into the bags can help them.  We had some hand warmers for the bags, and this will help keep them warm.”

Students also designed and created cards of appreciation for the bags.

“They were fun to make, and I am glad that they are helping the firefighters and the policemen because they help everyone, and they save lives,” said Irene, a seventh-grader.

Reflecting on why it was essential to do this activity, Gizelle, an eighth-grader, commented, “It was important because they do so much for us, and they keep us safe. It was good to make them happy.”

After the bags were filled to the brim with snacks and small gifts of appreciation, Grade nine and ten students hand-delivered them to the Brighton Police Department and the Brighton Fire Department. The first-responders were extremely grateful for the tokens of appreciation and the act of kindness exhibited by the students’ eagerness to say thank you.

Fritz, a third-grader, summed up the event perfectly by saying, “I had to help put things into the bags, and we also made cards. I hope that the bags were a blessing because it is God’s will that we help others.”

–Jodie Aakko is the headteacher at Brighton Adventist Academy; photos supplied

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