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| | | The 1997 Conference Crier | | |
| | | Larry Graffius, Editor | | |
| | | David Taylor, Cyber-Crier Editor | | |
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Monday's Conference Crier
Gathering G-Men for God. by Benjamin Cruzan
A jumpstart for your get-a-long, to use President Owen Probasco’s words,
is exactly the tone that ran through the opening service of Seventh Day
Baptist General Conference, 1997. Owen's initial message was that the
week would be a family affair. And the opening service certainly was a
family affair. Two of Owen's sons, Bill and Jim, acted as worship
leaders, Owen's Wife, Ruth, supported him from the congregation, as did
his daughter, Cindy, and Cindy's four children. But the family affair
Owen was talking of involved a family of a different sort. "We are all
blood relatives,” owen declared in his friendly booming voice, owe are
all blood relatives through Christ.” And so the service began.
Soon those in attendance at the service were laughing a comfortable
family reunion laugh with worship leaders Bill and Jim, who spun a
humorous account of their father's presidency — the family car becoming
oGroundforce one,” having to address their father as "Mr. President,”
and numerous failed attempts at Conference topics, from "Pray Softly but
Carry a Big Bible” to "That's Seventh Day BAPTIST, Buck-o!"
owen's message was, as Jim said, "More along the lines of, uh, what you
would expect." But it was no less upbeat. Owen called us to be "G-Men
for God." G-Men. There were a lot of G's in the message owen brought,
and they all led to being G-Men for God — oGonna do, gonna be, gonna
change, gonna help...” That's what being a G-Man for God is all about.
But there are also those words that sound like G-words. The oG-words
once removed.” Judgement. Jurisdiction. Justice. These are the words the
world will come to know about our God. oWhile we bask in His Goodness,
others will cringe in His Judgment; while we take satisfaction in His
Greatness, others will attempt to flee from His Jurisdiction; while we
Glory in his Graciousness, others will agonize over His Justice.”
In the end, though, the motivation behind being G-Men for God goes back
to a family orientation. It is Jesus, the gift from God, that oenables
the 'over there' folks to join the 'over here' folks." Togetherness. A
family, blood-related through Jesus Christ. That's our motivationfor
being here at Conference. That's our motivation for being Christians.
The opening service was a great go-get'em time that brought us together
as God's children, together in His Goodness and Grace.
CONFERENCE DELEGATES RECEIVE "TALENTS" FROM GOD!!
No, it wasn't Monty Hall.
And as far as we know, Calvin Babcock didn't hit the lottery.
But first thing Monday morning, our executive secretary distributed
cash to every person in the auditorium! As part of his report to
General Conference, Calvin wanted to both challenge and demonstrate what
God can do in and through Seventh Day Baptists. oI serve a God who is
in charge of the universe!” he declared, as dollar bills were passed out
to the several hundred people at the opening business session. oThis is
a 'talent' from God,” we were told, referring to the parable of the
talents. Each of us is to take that talent and make a decision as to
how it will be used.
oWe need to keep on asking, and giving, so God can keep on doing more
through and for Seventh Day Baptists,” Babcock said. Next year we will
have a special offering at Conference, which will be added to the
Sabbath Conference offering, and the money for that offering will come
from these 'talents' and what they have yielded during the year.
With the dollar dividend came instructions: As you take your talent,
you need to decide how you will use it. There are no strings attached,
no conditions, no catches, Calvin assured us. You can spend it; you can
save it; or you can use it in some way to bring a return. And also, as
you think about how to use your talent, pray also about how our
Conference uses its resources. I believe we will be shown what God
wants us to do in the future.
President Probasco Sees Promise, Potential
An interview with this year's Conference president.
CC: What has been your goal or major objective as Conference president?
Probasco: The theme I chose — actually I feel like it was given to me
rather than I chose it — has been the key to everything. Those main
words, otuned in, turned on” just kept buzzing in my mind . . . that if
wecould just get people tuned in to God. If we would be tuned in to God
all the time, hey, our problems would disappear.
I've seen people get turned on . . . at Conference and at other kinds
of retreats and things. And it's exciting. The question comes, which
comes first — to be tuned in or turned on? But really, either one could
come first, they complement each other. They are energizing words.
CC: As you travelled to many churches and Associations during the past
year, what has the response been from the people you have met?
Probasco: I have really been encouraged by the support and the
enthusiasm for what I've tried to present. The responses have nearly
all been very positive; when I have asked people for help, they have
been more than willing. It's really been great. You know, as Baptists,
ther are always a varied number of opinions on any given subject, but my
hope is that rather than focus on that, that we emphasize our oneness;
that our differences serve to complement one another.
CC: What is the most important thing you have learned or discovered as
Conference president?
Probasco: You must learn to lean on God. I've also learned a lot about
personal relationships. And in addition to that, you come to realize
that othe buck stops here." With God's imput and leading, you've got to
make the decisions. You don't always do everything by committee.
CC: What are the major topics of business that General Council has
addressed or that we might be addressing this week at Conference?
Probasco: Well, of course in the General Council report, they listed the
main issues that we have been looking at — and they're all good ones. I
don't anticipate any trouble spots. But sometimes we need to be jolted,
to somehow spur new growth and vitality. A lot of the denomination's
energy is here at Conference. A lot of the leaders, the pillars of the
church. of course I realize that there a lot, too, back at home who
never have the opportunity to come to Conference. But there are a lot
of people here who bring new enthusiasm, special insight, inspiration to
us.
And something else that is exciting to see is that the relationship
between the boards and agencies is positive. And this helps to foster a
better and more creative use of our resources. A specialization or
customization of services — as the executives and leaders go out to the
people and the churches, they bring a special program or idea that they
are really excited about.
CC: What special events of the week are you looking forward to?
Probasco: Well, first of all, last evening's service was a major one for
me. [See article on p. 1] I'm really pleased with how that went.
Looking ahead, I am very excited about the seminars that we will have.
I think the topics are vital — speaking to the needs of many of our
people right now. There's one by Janet Thorngate, for instance, on SDB
history. We have a lot of new people now, and they will really be
helped to learn about our past. I am very excited about the staff we
have for the program and the support.
owen is also a member of the Memorial Fund Board of Trustees, and he
took this opportunity to comment on that aspect of his personal
involvement.
Probasco: I am really pleased with the direction and makeup of the
Memorial Fund Trustees. They are sensitive; searching and supportive.
The Memorial Fund has grown by leaps and bounds here lately. And we are
now looking for ways to move more of those assets into program
generating issues. Things that will lead to growth. We really are at a
new threshold; the horizon is opening as we approach the 2000s.
Hot Topics on General Council Agenda:
New church in Rome, N.Y., plans to go public soon
Mexico missionaries, the Luis Lovelaces, patiently awaith proper
paperwork and visas
Rwanda begins construction of their first SDB medical clinic
Zambia plans for vocational and Bible schools
Mailing list for the Sabbath Recorder undergoes major change
Plans continue for new book on opractical Sabbathkeeping”
Women's Society anticipates sending first-ever participate to Baptist
World Alliance Youth Rally
The Lord blesses SCSC with a positive financial balance
Robert Van Horn graduates from the T.I.M.E. program
Sergei Bogolepov of Russia completes most of his T.I.M.E. training and
begins training others
Board of Christian Education produces new documentary video
oStained Glass” makes their fourth summer singing tour
Center sees increase in activity on Web page and e-mail
Come! Visit SDBs in Africa!
Thursday evening--9:00 pm in lounge across from the cadeteria door.
(Bring your own punch, cookies, etc.) Slide program of the Thorngates's
World Federation trip to South Africa and Zimbabwe.
What happened in Jamaica?
Come, hear mini-reports from our delegates to the World Federation
sessions last month. Delegates came from 12 SDB Conferences. Two from
overseas are with us this week: Rev. Royal Mkandawire from Malawi and
Mrs. Dorothy Goulding from Australia.
God is Good . . . All the Time
Young Adult Pre-Con 1997 was en fuego. For the second year in a row
for Pastor Dave Taylor as director, and, once again, it was a beauty.
our class times/discussion times/Bible study times were focused on the
parables of Christ. Afterpersonally being beaten one morning prior to
our discussion of the oGood Samaritan” and being dragged to Hades one
morning prior to our discussion of oThe Rich Man and Lazerus,” Pastor
Harold King and Pastor D. T. Went on to show us how these parables apply
to us today. other parables were discussed but these are the two that
stick out in my mind at present.
Along with the class times, we had numerous amazing worship services.
God decided to come down and visit with us every night. Each night
following the worship service, the Yound Adults escaped to another
lounge to continue with worship. The focus shared by all Pre-Conners
was amazing. We were there to worship and that is what was done.
Though were were lacking a bit in the osleep” department, our weariness
was only evident when we were awake. Despite this, the entire
experience proved to be a blessing. God is good . . . all the time.
—John Mark Camenga
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Tuesday Crier
Turned on to Jesus Christ — Energized
Monday Evening Worship
Certainly the choir was energized as they raised their voices in the
anthem, proclaiming, oWe Shall See Jesus!o
The Camenga family members provided leadership for the worship service
with John Mark and Faith Green sharing special music, Pastor Andrew
serving as worship leader and Pastor John bringing the evening message.
Mark Green (a family member by marriage!) shared a delightful children's
message, assisted by Pastor Steve osborn. The topic, oNew Creatureso
led them to reflect about their favorite super heros — Superman, Batman,
Ninja Turtles. But even more exciting is that we are new creatures in
Christ, and we have super powers even greater than Superman! Prayer,
worship, eternal life, spiritual armor and our super weapon, the Sword
of the Spirit (the Bible). Wow!
From start to finish, Pastor John Camenga sought to emphasize the theme
of diversity and variety of Christian experience in the church. He
reminded us that the text, 2 Cor. 5:14-6:1, was written to a very
diverse collection of believers. Many were immature, many still had a
long way to go in their spiritual walk with Christ. And yet, energizing
excitement flows from this passage.
Excitement is contagious. Very much like standing to cheer with a
throng of fans at a football game, even when you don't know what's
happening! We want to be a part of it, to share in the experience, to
fit in.
And yet, Camenga warned, we must not go overboard in our attempt to
communicate the message, so that we leave the wrong impression. He
shared a concern about the choice of language and metaphors that are
often used recently in describing our experience. Expressions that
refer to the drug culture, to ogetting high,o such as a T-shirt that
displays in large letters, oCRACKo and the fine print beneath reads,
oyour Bible.o
But the repeated affirmation that Pastor John made was that the
energizing excitement of being tuned in to Christ can take on many
different forms of expression. Like the many different types of
appliances in your home, they are all plugged in to the same source of
power. Wired to — turned on to Christ.
Finally, in spite of the wonderful ministry and experiences that are
manifested because of this diversity, still so many of us continue to
wish for something that we don't have; we want and even try to be
something we are not. But we must come to realize that we are who we
are — and find our fulfillment and energy in that realization.
A U.S. naval ship at sea in oct., 1995, seeing lights approaching in the
dark of the night, transmitted this message: oAttention. This is a
U.S. naval ship. Please divert your course .5 degrees south to avoid
collision.o
The Canadian operator radioed back, oAdvise that you divert your course
.5 degrees south to avoid collision.o The U.S. vessel responded, oThis
is the captain of the U.S. navy vessel. Divert your course .5 degrees
south.o The Canadian replied, oI say again, you divert your course .5
degrees south to avoid collision.o The navy seaman shot back, oThis is
an aircraft carrier of the United States naval forces. Divert your
course .5 degrees south.o Finally the Canadian sent this message: oThis
is a lighthouse . . . o
Pastor John concluded by sharing his own experience of how for many
years he felt a sense of inadequacy about his abilities in the area of
evangelism. But finally, God's affirmation of his gift of teaching has
brought great fulfillment — it is energizing!
Volleyball Match a Muddy Success
Last night on Monday, August 4th was the first S.D.B. General
Conference of the U.S.A. and Canada Youth vs. Pastors Mud Volleyball
Match.
The activity had been anticipated by many. Some girls were
disappointed at not having a chance to play the pastors. Excitement
extended far enough to prompt a rescheduling of the Praise Time led by
the Young Adults to oafter the gameo.
The match was planned for 8:30 p.m., but for some reason it took a
while for the players and spectators to gather. Three games to 15
points were planned. The pastors took the match in two games.
With a blowout for the first game and a score of 16-14 on the second,
the pastors gave the appearance of dominance. Just wait for the
rematch.
By Nathanael J. Lawton
Match the Mothers with their Sons
Eve Jesus
Mary Moses
Hannah John the Baptist
Rachel Benjamin
Rebekah Esau
Jochebed Samuel
Bathsheba Solomon
Elizabeth Cain
Match the Fathers with their Sons
Isaac James
Abraham Shem
Zebedee Ephraim
Jesse Isaac
Noah Rehoboam
David David
Joseph Jonathan
Solomon Solomon
Saul Jacob
Australasian Delegate says, "Get on with it!"
An interview with Dorothy Goulding, fraternal delegate from the
Australasian Seventh Day Baptist Conference
CC: What is your role in the Australasian SDB Conference?
Goulding: I'm here as a fraternal delegate, although I don't really
have an official role or office in the conference right now. I was
president of the Conference for four years and have been an officer or
executive in the Conference since its inception in 1981. My son, Andrew
is now the president, and he is also the pastor of the Brisbane SDB
Church in Australia.
CC: What is God doing among Australasian Seventh Day Baptists?
Goulding: Well He's working really well. In the early 1940's we had
just 2 churches in New Zealand. In the 1970's we began a work in
Australia. Now there are 2 new churches in New Zealand and a branch
church to be received into the Conference next year. And that branch
church has a branch church. In Australia there are 3 churches, in
Melba, Sydney, and the new church in Brisbane. They sent people there
as missionaries seven years ago and that church has grown from just four
people to where it is now a flourishing church. They are in the south
of Brisbane, and they have a branch church in the north.
It is hard for us to get it all together because of the distances. It
is approximately 600 miles between the churches in Australia, and about
800 miles between churches in New Zealand plus a 3 hour ferry trip. So
our Conference is just biennial. But in between we have Association.
While I was president we set up the Australian Association, and also the
yearly pastor's retreats. Even though they are spread out, they try to
get together regularly. There are six pastors in New Zealand, but only
one in Australia. There is also one student at the Baptist seminary.
CC: What missions projects do you have?
Goulding: The people of our Conference are very evangelistic and very
missionary minded, I can tell you that. Pastor Berrar went to Malawi
for 16 years, and then recently he went back again for two more terms at
the Bible College. And then Ian and Trudy Ingoe served there for two
years. That was a joint project with your conference. We also have had
Jose Alegre, who went to Argentina to start a new work. There have
never been SDB's in that part of the world before. So we raised a lot
of funds for the work there, for a building and for furnishings. And
now it will soon be handed over to the Brazilians. They feel that it is
just about ready for them to take it over.
CC: How are Australasian SDB's similar or different from us here in the
U.S.?
Goulding: Well, they're not really very much different. I think our
basic beliefs and practices are very much like yours here. We enjoy the
freedom of thought just as you do here. one difference, some of our
churches do not have communion each quarter or each month, but they
observe it only at the time of Passover. Like here, our women are very
active, especially in service and missions projects. At Brisbane they
do a lot of work with what they call the oferrelo — it means owildo —
people, the ones who are on drugs, the alcoholics, and those who are in
prison. They are really rough ones, but then when they give their lives
to the Lord, then you see a big change.
Also in Brisbane they huge flea markets, and we have a store at the
flea market, where we give out Bibles; there is a band, and signs, and
we hand out tracts.
We have lots of home study groups; there's a weekly women's group, and
a senior women's group, and a weekly youth group.
In our Conference, none of the pastors are paid, it is all voluntary.
They earn their own income and they give their service to the church.
CC: You recently attended the World Federation Meetings in Jamaica.
Tell us about your experience there.
Goulding: I enjoyed it very much, although it was very different from
what you have here or what I am used to. For one thing, the
facilities. It was difficult for me to get around and I was not sure
how I was going to work out how to manage with my wheelchair. But
spiritually it was very uplifting. The meetings were all day and on in
to the evening. We finally had dinner at about 10:00 at night. The
singing was wonderful. The heat was terrific. But it was really good.
We had nine representatives there from our Conference.
CC: What message would you like to share with the General Conference of
SDB's, USA and Canada?
Goulding: I am very excited this time to see more youth here. It shows
that you are an alive church. It is so good to see so many new faces
and younger people. It shows growth, new evangelization. I notice
their enthusiasm. If they can be utilized for the Lord's service, that
is so important. I would just say to tune in to the Lord and get on
with it! Praise God.
[Evangelism, the brief approach]
Actual Signs . . .
On the wall of a Baltimore estate:
"Trespassers will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.--Sisters
of Mercy"
In a Florida maternity ward:
"No children allowed."
In the offices of a loan company:
"Ask about our plans for owning your home."
On a display of oI love you only" Valentine cards:
"Now available in multi-packs."
on a long-established New Mexico dry cleaners:
"38 years on the same spot."
On a shopping mall marquee:
"Archery Tournament -- Ears pierced"
On a Tennessee highway:
"When this sign is under water, this road is impassable."
Tuesday Worship Service
Pastor Ken Butler brought us his late night inspiration on how to make
being turned on by the Holy Spirit practical. However, I don't believe
that Pastor George Calhoun was as convinced when he received a late
night call about this inspiration. Pastor Ken and Pastor George kindly
showed us how this happened in their dramatization. Despite this late
night call, Pastor Ken brought four useful ways of being turned on by
the Holy Spirit: gathering with others, praying for His power, speaking
God's words, and sharing with others.
We learned about these principles in Acts 4:23-35. Here the disciples
applied all of these principles, and the result was the people saw the
Holy Spirit move.
As we learned about gathering with others, we were reminded not to
become so focused inwardly that we miss the others around us. We were
also told about a soccer player who was in deep trouble with his
league. He told the press, owhen you're in trouble go home to those
who love you so.o We as Christians should go home to God's love because
it is the greatest of all. It should be the same in the church.
After we come home, we need to get connected to His love. We can do
that by prayer. When we pray, the Lord moves. We may not get the
spectacular miracles that the disciples saw, but God did work and still
does. When we're tapped into this power, which we are given through
prayer, we are then able to do things through the Holy Spirit. In the
Acts passage, the believers were able to speak boldly for God and to
share their possessions. The same should be possible for us.
Pastor Butler, went on to ask what side of the Pentecost are we on. We
need to live after the Pentecost looking for the Holy Spirit to work in
the every day. Some places to look for the Holy Spirit moving included
the Word of God, circumstances in our lives, osanctifiedo common sense,
closed doors, and others. once we look for the Holy Spirit, we are
empowered by Him which brings a change in attitude.
one way we can get tuned into the Holy Spirit is to believe He is
moving, to desire that it happen in your life, to repent of things in
the way, and to appropriate by letting Him be in control. Pastor Butler
closed with this thought, oWhat have I done with the Holy Spirit?o The
Holy Spirit does not always come as it did in the Pentecost, but he is
moving in the every day when we reach out.
As well as being blessed by the sermon, we were blessed by the choir
singing and special music of Benjamin Calhoun. Ben reminded us that
David wanted to be in touch with God and even in David's failing he
still desired God's presence. Ben spoke of this in the song, oA Man
After God's own Hearto. David desired to be connected to God; we too
should desire to be connected to God through His Holy Spirit. Both Ben
and Pastor Butler called us to be turned on by the Holy Spirit.
For those of you receiving this by email, sorry, you don't get the
crossword puzzle that we printed on the back page of Tuesday's Crier!
pleg
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Wednesday's Crier
REVIVAL Monday Evening Worship
Whee! o Whee-o Um UM A-waay SDB's, they know how to have fun
This was energetically demonstrated by the Next Generation of Seventh
Day Baptists on Tuesday night, when General Conference was captivated by
the music, the scripture, the joy and the praises to God of our young
people. From the opening song, oThe SDB Jungleo (words by Kecia
Thompsongordon, sung to the tune of oThe Lion Sleeps Tonighto), we
immediately realized this would not be simply a concert, this was a
celebration of the joy of worship, the excitement of knowing Jesus, the
thrill of experiencing His Presence. It was the Youth/Young Adult
combined Pre-Con choir's way of saying, oYa wanna see 'Tuned In'? Ya
wanna see 'Turned on?' Ya lookin' for 'Triumphant'? THIS IS IT!!
As they mixed the praise choruses, the scripture, the instrumentals and
the songs of worship, the words of Ephesians 5:18-19 kept coming to
mind: oBe filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms,
hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the
Lord ...o
The voices and power of the youth and young adults were augmented by
skilled musicians — flute, guitar, harmonica, bongos, bass guitar,
drums, piano, and cymbals. oh yes, the SDB's know how to have fun!
(Whoo, whoo, whoo!)
Finally, they surrounded the auditorium and filled the room and our
hearts with joy and exaltation to God: oHalleluia! He is Wonderful!o
And then it was out turn to participate. In the service prepared and
led by young adults, we were encouraged to prepare our hearts, not only
for worship, but for revival. Songs of praise led to testimonies of
God's faithfulness and greatness. oHis love, power, and Spirit is what
lets us live,o Debbie Moncrief said, oand it gives us the fire to do His
work.o Amen, sister.
Kecia Thompsongordon testified in the way she communicates best —
through music. She shared the prayer of her heart, oo Lord, take my
heart; forgive me, use me.o
After another time of singing and prayer, about the time of the evening
when the service is normally dismissed, a young man stood up to preach.
And nobody was leaving.
[It will be difficult for this journalist to report objectively about
the message that we heard at Tuesday night's worship. It was, without
question, the best sermon this writer (and dad!) Has heard all week!]
REVIVAL. Scott Graffius brought us the Word, that revival is not
something that can be planned or programmed. It comes with the major
outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Like in Acts 2, the Day of Pentecost.
Tongues of fire. Speaking in tongues. And the spread of the gospel to
the far corners of civilization, and the world is never the same.
That's revival.
Revival means more than just receiving the Holy Spirit, Scott declared.
It means to okeep in step with the Spirit.o To walk in the Spirit,
according to Galatians 5:21. Do we live daily in the power of the Holy
Spirit? Do we have the experience of those first century believers, of
excitement and passion? or not. Someone has said, oIf God ever decided
to take back the Holy Spirit, 75% of Christians wouldn't even notice.o
Am I experiencing the Holy Spirit in my life? Am I experiencing the
osame power that raised Christ from the deado in my life?
Revival starts with me.
When we hear about the need for revival, we often think, oThat's what
Seventh Day Baptists need,o or oThat's what my church needs.o But
revival starts with me. It's what I need. How can I experience more of
God in my life?
on the Day of Pentecost, after the dust settled, after Peter boldly
proclaimed the meaning of this amazing phenomenon, the revival began
because of the fourfold response of the people that day (see Acts
2:37f.):
1. They heard.
2. They were ocut to the heart.o
3. They asked real questions: oWhat shall we do?o
4. They repented and were baptized.
Some 3,000 people realized that day, REVIVAL STARTS WITH ME!
Can we believe that God ever really modifies His action in response to
the suggestions of men? For infinite wisdom does not need telling what
is best, and infinite goodness needs no urging to do it. But neither
does God need any of those things that are done by finite agents,
whether living or inanimate. He could, if He chose, repair our bodies
miraculously without food; or give us food without the aid of farmers,
bakers, and butchers, or knowledge without the aid of learned men; or
convert the heathen without missionaries. Instead, He allows soils and
weather and animals and the muscles, minds, and wills of men to
cooperate in the execution of His will... It is not really stranger,
nor less strange, that my prayers should affect the course of events
than that my other actions should do so. They have not advised or
changed God' s mind -- that is, His overall purpose. But that purpose
will be realized in different ways according to the actions, including
the prayers, of His creatures.
—C. S. Lewis, The Efficacy of Prayer
Conference Business
by anonymous reporter, watch what you say folks!
After a day off from business, Session #2 was convened this morning at
10:10 am. Conference Pastor Mynor Soper opened with prayer, creating an
inspirational transition from worship into business. Minutes from
Session #1 (held Monday) were read and received as corrected by Kevin
Butler. The Report of the obituaries Coordinator, Jean Jorgensen, gave
us all an opportunity to review our own lives and the influences we may
have for Christ. Sixteen Seventh Day Baptist individuals were
specifically remembered and the prayer offered by the Reverend Leon
Maltby became our ostanding ovationo to these faithful servants of God
who died during the past Conference year.
Cindy Nadeu presented the Credentials Coordinator's Report, noting the
following statistics (as of 8/05/97): Total registered 493, delegates
317, churches represented 53, pastors 57, students preparing for
ministry 1, fraternal delegates 2, other visitors 1. Associated
Conferences: Jr. high 21, grades 5 & 6 14, grades 3 & 4 10, grades 1 & 2
12, preschool 9, and nursery 5.
Reports of the Interest Committees on Missions National (Robert Harris,
chm.), Communications (Christina Cain, secy.), Budget & Finance (Jim
Goodrich, secy.), and Youth (Nathan Kinnicutt, secy.) were all accepted
along with their recommendations without any discussion. In addition to
conveying appreciation to our hard-working denominational leaders for
the various boards and agencies, some specific items for highlighting
included:
Development of workshops (in local churches as well as for next year's
General Conference) to help Seventh Day Baptists understand other groups
(e.g. Worldwide Church of God, Seventh-day Adventists, and Mormons) from
whom we are receiving prospective members.
Expansion of the denominational web site to carry the content of more
SDB publications and also minutes from all the boards and agencies.
Greater detail in Memorial Fund reports and budgets of the boards and
agencies to distinguish between types of income, to be presented in
consistent manner for easy comparisons.
Creation of an Seventh Day Baptist Youth Fellowship songbook with input
from local youth fellowships.
Naming of an editor for the Beacon page in The Sabbath Recorder: Jeremy
Bullinger.
Expression of the concern that young women are discriminated against in
mud volleyball and a desire to select activities in the future which
will provide an equal opportunity to participate among all our youth at
General Conference.
one item of new business was raised by Pastor Jack Morgan and referred
tot he Reference and council Interest Committee: to have othe other side
of the Trinitarian controversyo heard as a balance to this morning's
Bible study.
Session #2 was adjourned at 11:05 am.
Try this Bible Brain Tester . . .
How many books of the Bible can you find in this paragraph? Hidden in
the following words are fifteen books from the old and New Testaments.
I once made some remarks about hidden books of the Bible. It was a
lulu—kept some people looking so hard for facts and studying for the
revelation that they were in a jam. Especially since the books were not
capitalized. But truth finally struck numbers of our readers. To
others, it was a real job. We want it to be a most fascinating few
moments for you. Yes, there will be some really easy to spot. others
require judges to determine. We must admit it usually takes a minute to
find one, and there will be loud lamentations when you see how simple it
is. one little lady says she brews tea while she puzzles in her brain.
Well, get to work if you want to complete it. Good luck!
Conference Crier goes cyber! Did you know that we are e-mailing the
Crier to about 40 people? Daily postings of the text are sent out to
keep the folks back home informed -- instantly! We have received
responses and greetings from several people so far.
REMEMBER THE BIG oGo
At the Tuesday morning Memorial Board presentation we were reminded
that one of the oGso is GIVING. Donald Graffius introduced Paul Barkus
of Brundage, Story and Rose, who gives us advice on how to best invest
our money. The Memorial Fund investments are in bonds and stocks. At
present there is 80% of it placed in common stock. He reminded us that
in 1980 the value of our funds was $4.7 million. By 1990 it had grown to
$8.3 million. It is now worth $15 million. He pointed out that it is
their desire that the money we make now will make a big difference for
the future.
Scott Graffius, the former oCrumb Cruncher,o was then introduced. He
spoke of the benefits of receiving the Lois Wells Music Education
Scholarship. He is a senior this year at Judson College near Chicago. It
is his desire to be able to use his musical talents to bring glory to
God.
Don Graffius then talked about the big oGo (giving). He pointed out
that we need to have a passion for giving. While charts and graphs are
important, what we really should be thinking about and seeing is the
people who are being ministered to because of our giving. We should find
a ministry we want to be involved in and give of what we are able.
Anyone who is interested in giving gifts, bequests, or whatever, please
see one of the Memorial Board members. They have various ways to suggest
how you can GIVE.
Remember the big oG!o
oIn the Jungle, the Mighty Jungleo Youth Pre-Con
Where is our leader? The Pre-Conners arrived at four as planned, but to
their surprise the director of the youth was nowhere to be seen. Pastor
Eric seemed to be lost somewhere in Kansas City. When he finally
arrived, the eager youth discovered the theme of their studies was oTake
Me to Your Leader.o Appropriate, huh!
There were many new faces this year, so of course the name game had to
be played. Everything went well until it was made apparent that the
campus was being over run by Nathans and Californians. No one was able
to remember all of the names, so Pastor Eric was allowed to keep his
twenty dollars.
Bible study proved interesting and enlightening when several learned
that yo-yo's and Frisbee's are not the way to approach a non-Christian.
Small groups were fun especially when Tanya Henry called for skits with
dirty socks, that must have been a pretty smelly situation. Also when
Pastor David Thorngate had a competition in braiding thread.
New games were introduced to some, such as: capture the socks and paper,
scissors, rock. How about those beach balls and bubbles, Pastor Eric!!
Volleyball seemed to be the most popular for some. Interruption of a
three hour game of volleyball came, when the ooo crew (lead by Pastor
Eric) attacked the volleyball players with water guns and the oFish.o
This water gun squad felt the need to spray anyone and everyone in
sight.
Music practice was fun as, eventually, harmonies were created. The
sound of young voices raised in worship is a special treat to all who
participate. Vesper services were truly inspiring and the Lord's
presence was felt by many. As praise and worship grew longer, new dorm
devotions began later. With evening serenades by oStained Clothes,o
sleep was easily attained.
Friday night was filled with an emotional communion and testimony
service. The guys were also surprised by a beautiful serenade given by
the females. The females were not so lucky on Sabbath night.
one unforgettable experience would have to be filling into the stairways
for vespers. We attempted to take advantage of the amazing acoustics,
and discovered almost unbearable heat.
Soon, it was time for Conference and everyone had broken through the
barricades for departure. The boys found it extremely funny to block
the girls into their dorms. This bad example was set by the young adults
and their penny lock adventure. Several good-byes were heard as we
piled into vans, cars, and any vehicles that ran. The whole SDB Jungle,
otherwise known as Pre-Con, was a rewarding experience and we pray that
conference proves to be similar.
By Scott Bruce, Rachel Chroniger, and Marissa Van Horn
ANNoUNCEMENTS
Impromptu Men's Chorus--Friday Vespers oBring your Towner's!o
Handchime sight reading sessions Thursday afternoon at 2 and at 3
14 per session may play, but all listeners are welcome. Sign up with
Luan Ellis.
Praise Time after evening worship in the main auditorium (every night
except Wednesday).
VISIT SDB's IN AFRICA!
Thursday evening, 9:00 p.m. In Levine Lounge (across from the cafeteria)
Slide program of Dale and Janet Thorngate's trip to South Africa SDB
Conference and to SDB General Conference of Africa in Zimbabwe last
fall.
90th Anniversary of SDB's in South Africa and the 3rd session of the
6-year-old All-Africa Conference. Trip sponsored by the SDB World
Federation. [Bring your own popcorn & soda pop!]
YoU CAN TITHE FoR FREE?
Attend the Christian Financial Principles Seminar Thursday afternoon for
details! 4:00 p.m.
.........................................................................
Thursday Crier
Wednesday evening worship
At Wednesday evening's vesper, the sounds and styles of music were more
traditional, and the variety and beauty were wonderfully inspiring.
Passages of scripture on the theme of "Seeing the Lord" were
interspersed with musical selections by a woman's chorus, piano solo,
woman's and men's trios, and a violin and organ duet. The evening
worship followed the day's topic, the Trinity. No one at Conference
should have missed the choir's rendition of "Nothing But the Blood"
Wow! Family involvement seems to be a recurring development in the
program this year, and so after Joel Osborn served as worship leader,
his brother Steve brought the evening message. To begin with, when
speaking of the Trinity, we must admit that all of the analogies and
illustrations we come up with fall far short of capturing the essence
and explaining the mystery of the Godhead. We affirm three simple,
basic statements: 1. God is manifest in three distinct and individual
persons. 2. Each one is fully God. 3. There is one God. How can these
all be true at once? They appear to be contradictory. How can this
be? Pastor Osborn, fresh out of seminary and brimming with theological
confidence, helped all of us understand the doctrinal intricacies of
this question as he shared this keen insight: "I dunno!" And yet, he
unashamedly assured us, "I'm okay with that." There are simply some
things about our great and awesome God that we will never know or
understand. In fact, it testifies to his overwhelming greatness when we
must acknowledge that He far exceeds our powers of comprehension. There
will always be certain things, many things, that remain a mystery.
That's not fair? Why can't we know these things? Not fair? "Well,"
Pastor Steve comforts, "you've got a long time to get over it!" Steve's
message was a well executed exposition of the text, Ephesians 4:1-6, in
which the goal of unity is both urged and explained. The three persons
of the Trinity are involved in the peace process. As Steve put it, the
Trinity Tells us to Triumph Through Totally Trying Togetherness! We are
urged, not merely advised or recommended, to keep the peace that we have
from God int he Holy Spirit. Notice we are not responsible to create
the peace -- it is already ours through the Holy Spirit. We are told to
keep the peace . . . A. By being humble -- lowly -- a new concept in
godly living, foreign and unpopular in the first century Greek culture.
B. By being gentle -- meekness -- not weakness; absorbed in the goal
for the common good, not in self. C. By being patient -- longsuffering
-- the ability to take a lot of abuse without seeking revenge. D. By
demonstrating forbearance -- bearing with one another -- mutual
tolerance of each other. Next, this passage provides us with a
tantalizing trio of triads about the Trinity (hey, I don't preach em, I
just report em!)! 1. There is one body, one spirit, one hope: The
Holy Spirit's participation in unity. 2. There is one Lord, one faith,
one baptism: The work of Christ to provide unity. 3. There is one God
and Father, who is over all, through all, and in all: The master plan
of the Father for unity in the church. Steve issued a call for all of us
to commit ourselves to unity. We can do that! He spoke of the great
variety within our Conference -- the theological, racial and ethnic, and
cultural differences that exist among the churches. And yet these
difference need not, they must not, divide us. We will have questions
of doctrine and practice, and yet the finer points of the faith need not
cause us to be divided. "We must not let our difference destroy our
unity!" Steve affirmed. We must commit ourselves to unity. At the
close of the service, for the second night in a row, we were led in a
season of prayer, focusing on what God can do in us, if we yield our
hearts to him completely.
Conference Business
Business Session #3 was called to order by President Owen Probasco on
Wednesday afternoon at 2:47 p.m. Once again Conference Pastor Mynor
Soper opened with prayer, this time moving us from God's work among us
in the past (as presented by SDB Historian Don Sanford) to God's work
among us in the here and now. Minutes from Session #2 (held Wednesday
morning) were read and approved. Complete reports from the Committees on
Woman's Interests, Christian Social Action, and Reference and Council
were presented and accepted with all their recommendations intact. A
partial report from the Committee on Ministerial Interests was also
presented, but action was delayed until the full report is made
available for consideration by General Conference. Some of the
highlighted items from these reposts included: Continuation of
SCSC'ers raising personal support for their ministries and request for
prayers as SCSC plans are made around earlier dates for General
Conference. Preparation of a concise history of SCSC by the
Woman's Board with an abbreviated version to be published in The Sabbath
Recorder. Encouragement for our churches to help support their
young people's participation in the BWA Youth Congress.
Distribution of Love Gift offering:
Youth representative to BWA Youth Congress $100
Stained Glass $200
Australian Dedicated Worker coming to US $200
Remainder as follows: Sunshine Mountain 10%
Zambia Sewing Project 10%
Jamaica: Maiden Hall kitchen supplies 25%
Rwanda: Office set up 25%
Ron Elston: Med. expenses 30%
Strong urging for SDB individuals and churches to become better informed
concerning the business practices of certain entertainment companies (e.g.,
Disney and its subsidiaries) and long-distance carriers thought to be
anti-family, before taking such actions as boycotting and letter-writing
campaigns.
Recommendation that revisions to our Manual of Procedures be reviewed by
member churches for six months prior to its publication.
Suggestion that the 1998 Conference President consider additional study
time in appropriate format on the relationship of the Father, Son, and
the Holy Spirit as presented in scripture. (This was the response given
to the item of New Business raised at the end of Session #2).
Consideration of showing "pastor appreciation" on a regular basis (in
addition to an annual day) and of providing ministerial sabbaticals.
Session #3 was adjourned at 3:15 p.m.
Conference President Owen Porbasco called to order Session #4 at 10:14
this morning. Conference Pastor Mynor Soper offered an opening prayer
of thanksgiving. Minutes of Session #3 (held Wed. afternoon) were read
and received. The report of the Committee on Ministerial Interests was
completed and it was voted to accept this report as a whole. In addition
to the items previously reported in The Crier, the idea of mentoring for
new pastors was presented and the recommendation was passed that pastors
study (with involvement of Faith and Order) holidays and holy days
regarding their pagan and/or scriptural origins. The report of the
Interest Committee on Christian Education was accepted with its
recommendations which a) thanked the Board's director, staff, and
members for their good work year-round and b) accepted the Historical
Society's offer to prepare a book of SDB biographies which could be used
with grades 3-7 and easily translated for use in sister conferences. The
report of the Nominations Committee was received, effectively placing a
slate of officers into nomination which will be voted upon at Friday's
business meeting. Quite a bit of discussion was generated by a
recommendation that General Council consider expanding its at-large
membership and adopt term limits even for its ex-officio members. The
parliamentarian pointed out that if General Council decides to suggest
such changes, everything would come back to General Conference for
action. The Interest Committee on International Missions reported
delight over the rare privilege of having had in the committee meetings
two fraternal delegates and two new missionaries as well as leaders of
our World Federation who together gave a genuinely global perspective
throughout the discussions. Enthusiasm was expressed for the
development of short-term missions projects through the SDB Missionary
Society. In the meantime the committee encouraged churches to identify
individuals with interests and gifts for participating in such projects
and for anyone anticipating international travels to contact the
Missionary Society and the World Federation offices. It was also
mentioned that denominational executive G. Kirk Looper is available for
church and association presentations. The report of the Courtesies
Coordinator was read and accepted. Appreciation was given for all who
have made this year's Pre-Con, General Conference, and Associated
Conference programs possible. It was noted that letters would be sent
to retired pastors and spouses of retired pastors unable to attend this
year's General Conference and also letters to family of those SDB
individuals listed in this year's report of the Obituaries Coordinator.
Session #4 adjourned at 11:00 a.m.
Missionary Society
Kirk Looper, Executive Director of the Missionary Society introduced
three familiar faces to share about the Lord's work in a few location.
Rev. Russell Johnson highlighted the work of church planting, helping
groups of people become organized and recognized as a part of the SDB
family. Blountivlle, TN; West Palm Beach, FL; and Portsmouth, VA are
three of the groups working towards conference membership. A new work
has begun this year in Rome, NY with the concept of "going public" to
establish a new church in the near future (in a MALL no less!). The
work thus far has been through Good News Clubs (pre-teens) and by adult
home Bible studies. Rev. Ron Elston let us in on how God is working in
the Outreach Bible church of Portage, WI with their leader Keith
Julson. Colorado Springs, CO has sprung a group led by L. B. Lee who
has entered the TIME program. Rev. Luis Lovelace shared how God has not
made a mistake in postponing the missions trip to Mexico but God has
continued to prepare the Lovelaces in spiritual and physical ways.
Prayer is highly recommended for this work as paper work is still being
completed. Prayer is also needed for the Mexican Conference leader (job
problems). Let us, through prayer, empower God's people for the victory
in Mexico. Prayer is a foundation upon which all missions work can go
forth and be victorious. Robert Van Horn
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
And the names went on and on and on . . . Was your name read?
If not, all you have to do is jump on the "Memorization Surrey" and
enjoy the ride of your life as you learn scripture to carry with you all
your life. Then came the Players
C - Christian Education Bd.. Vice President, Ken Chroniger H - Helping
Hand Editor, Linda Harris R - Sabbath Visitor "writer" Jane Mackintosh I
- ?? S - Christian Education Bd.. President, Amanda Snyder T - NET
(Natural Evangelism Training) Trainers ("It Takes Two"), Charles and
Lorna Graffius I - ?? A - Youth Bible Study leader, Andrew Camenga N -
Children's Conference Director, Jane Mackintosh--- Beacon, Sabbath
Recorder, tracts editor, distributor, etc., etc., Kevin Butler---
Storage, Accounting and Billing, Calvin Babcock. E - Education:
C.A.L.L.E.D. writer, Rod Henry D - Directors of the Board U - You are
involved in Christian Education C - Children's Committee Chair, Vicki
Burdick A - Stained Glass member, David Stahl T - Young Adult Pre-Con
Director, Dave "Big Enough For Two" Taylor I - Youth Pre-Con Director,
Eric "I Don't Know" Davis O - Youth Committee Chairman, Matt Olson N -
Youth Workshop Leader and N'd of this crazy skit, Bernie Wethington.
As you can see, much goes on in the Board of Christian Education
of our denomination. But there are a couple of things missing. If you
are reading this, those blanks can be filled in . . . "I can get
involved in Christian Education." And, "There is always something I can
do!" Christina Thorngate
1997 SCSC PRESENTATION
The center was filled to capacity. Persons of every age were in
attendance, anticipating what has often been the highlight of the
conference week. Suddenly, from the sides of the room, the call
reverberated, "GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!!" "GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!!"
Twenty well dressed, fresh faced, good lookin' smiling young folks came
to the front. Althea Rood, SCSC training director, was at the piano, as
the 12 young ladies and 8 young men blended into a lovely choir to sing
"My Jesus, My Savior". As a whole choral group they introduced
themselves as TEAM DELIVERANCE reciting Ps. 32:7 for their base verse.
This was followed by more sincere praising of God through singing of
"You Are My Hiding Place". Next, each team introduced themselves by
name, home church, team name, and the church they served this summer.
The Bible verses for each team were recited with a variety of enthusiasm
and motions. (If you want to know more details, see the excellent SCSC
display of photos and information at the back of the auditorium.) Debbie
Moncrief stepped up to the microphone to share a journal entry she had
written while serving at Camp Joy. She spoke of watching God at work in
the lives of campers, and expressed amazement of the spiritual growth
she witnessed in herself and others. Following this theme, the young
ladies sang "I Never Get Used to What You Do". Nate Walker gave a
testimony of how, even though he went out to serve, God worked within
him. He had seen personal growth, especially in trust and faith. By
surrendering our whole selves to the Lord, we can do anything. Nate
expressed confidence in the future, because "God can take care of me".
With Steve Graffius on guitar, and Dustin Riley on harmonica, the young
men sang "The Color Song", which speaks of colors to represent what God
has and can do for us. Bernie Wethington, pastor on the training staff,
gave out the ribbons to the 10 "rookie" (first year) SCSCers. He was a
rookie himself this year, and hope was expressed that he would continue
to serve. Mary Jane McPherson, a long time staffer, and Charlotte
Chroniger, representative of the Women's Board, gave out the ribbons to
the 2nd and 3rd year veterans of the corps. Much applause was given to
those who have been involved both this year and in the past. SCSCers,
training staff, project directors, cooks, prayer and financial
supporters were all asked to stand and be recognized while Charlotte
pointed out the need to have everyone working together to glorify God
through this service organization. In closing, "Refiner's Fire" was sung
to express the desire and commitment of the SCSCers to continue working
for God long after the summer has ended.
Women's Banquet
This year's Woman's Banquet was Wednesday night. As always the dining
room looked beautiful, the food was delicious, and the program gave us a
chance to learn more about our SDB sisters that live across the world.
After dinner, Daniel Van Horn shared with us a testimony of his time in
Denver for SCSC this summer. He shared about the street kids with which
they worked and how amazing it was to watch God work in their lives.
"Stained Clothes" who announced their recent name change to "The
Clothes" shared their talents with us for the second year in a row.
This group is made us of Daniel Van Horn, John Mark Camenga, Dave
Stahl, and Chris Bond. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful music as they
lifted their voices in praise. When Althea Rood and Mary Jane McPherson
were singing in the kitchen at SCSC training, they had no idea they
would be asked to sing for the banquet, but, along with Linda Lawton
they led us in a medley of songs that touched us all. The speaker this
year was Dorothy Goulding. She is member of the Australasian SDB
Conference. She began her talk by sharing some of the history of that
Conference. Then went on to speak about they types of activities in
which the Woman's groups in the Australasian Conference participate.
They have Bible Studies, trading tables, "galas" which include craft
tables, food, face painting, etc. The group in Brisbane has stalls at
the flea market every Sunday to sell crafts and hand out Bibles. Most
of the money raised goes towards missions. In closing, Mrs Goulding left
us with some words of encouragement which included 2 Timothy 2:15, "Be
diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need
to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The entire program
was really an encouragement to individuals and groups to press
onward. by Stephanie Shultz
GENESIS In the beginning God created heaven and the earth. Quickly God
was faced with a class action suit for failure to file an environmental
impact statement. The Lord was granted a temporary permit for the
project, but was stymied with the Cease and Desist order for the earthly
part. Appearing at the hearing, God was asked why he began his earthly
project in the first place. He replied that he just liked to be
creative. The God said, "Let there be light." Officials immediately
demanded to know how the light would be made. Would there be strip
mining? What about thermal pollution? God explained that the light
would come from a huge ball of fire. God was granted provisional
permission to make light, assuming that no smoke would result from the
ball of fire, that he would obtain a building permit, and (to conserve
energy) would have the light out half the time. God agreed and said he
would call the light, "Day" and the Darkness, "Night." Officials
replied that they were not interested in semantics. God said, "Let the
earth bring forth green herbs and such as many seed. The EPA agreed so
long as native seed was used. Then God said, "Let waters bring forth
creeping creatures having life; and the fowl that may fly over the
earth." Officials pointed out this would require approval from the
Department of Game coordinated with the Heavenly Wildlife Federation and
the Audubongelic Society. Everything was OK until God said he wanted to
complete the project in six days. Officials informed him it would take
at least 200 days to review the application and the environmental impact
statement. After that there would be a public hearing. Then there
would be 10-12 months before . . . At this point God created Hell.
.........................................................................
From: David Taylor Subject: MISSING CRIERS
Greetings fellow SDB'ers and friends:
It has been my pleasure to bring you the Cyber-Crier this week. In
spite of a computer system going down, the Crier has been published 5
times. You only received 4 of them, but rest assured that the
Friday-Sabbath issue will be in your hot little hands by this coming
Sabbath - or so says the Editor of the Crier. Due to circumstances
beyond our control (actually the Editor deleted the Friday-Sabbath issue
before he downloaded it to a disk for me), there will be a slight delay
in your receiving it. It was in print for those attending Conference,
though. Now this is our plan. Larry will e-mail me a copy of the Crier
by THURSDAY (which Thursday is anybody's guess) and I will at the very
moment I receive it, forward it to you. Why doesn't he do it? Because I
have the mailing list on my computer. Now, let me give you some tidbits
to whet your appetite:
On Thursday, during the Council on Ministry presentation, it was noted
that there are four students in the T.I.M.E. program - Chris Mattison
Salemville, PA), Harold Smith (Bronx, NY), L.B. Lee (Colorado Springs,
CO), and Sergei Bogolepov (Russia). Four young men voiced their calling
to become Seventh Day Baptist pastors - Nick Kerster (Milton, WI), John
Pethel (Salem, WV), Scott Graffius (Marlboro, NJ), and Scott Smith
(North Loup, NE).
Newly elected President, Rev. John Bevis, has "Chosen" his theme for
next year. It is "A Chosen Genration." Conference will be held the last
week of July next year in Buckhannon, WV. The President-Elect is Mrs.
norma Rudert of White Cloud, MI and Daytona Beach, FL.
Awards and Presentations:
The Portage, WI, SDB Church was welcomed into membership. Pastor Keith
Julson and wife, Darcy, were present.
The Gold-Headed Cane was presented to Janet Thorngate (Salem, WV) for
her tireless work for the Historical Society.
Sabbath School Teacher of the Year is Jan Bond of Shiloh, NJ.
Scripture memorization Award went to the Toronto SDB Church for the
second year in a row.
The Women's Society Robe of Achievement went to Beth Burdick of Denver, CO.
Conference Offering - $14, 749.02
Registered for Conference - 508
Churches represented - 56
In closing, I will leave you with the top 10 themes we would like to
see in the Sabbath Recorder (see if they match your desires).
10. The Sabbath - To Nap or Not to Nap
9. Meal of Sharing - An SDB Icon
8. SDBees - Caught in the Web?
7. Church Rummage Sales - a necessary evil
6. Special Concil on Ministry Issue
Summer Institute - Spare the Rod, Spoil the Pastor?
T.I.M.E. - Has the Clock Run Out?
Pastor initiation rites - Is "Chubby Bunny" unethical?
5. Hymns/Hers - SDB's go Politically Correct
4. Inside the Recorder
Obituaries vs. Features - Which Should I Read First?
Pearls From The Past, or Diamonds from the Dead?
Kevin's Korner, or "Mom, i Didn't Do It...."
3. Ice Cream - A necessary Lindsborg Tradition
2. Conference Dorm Bathrooms - "I survived sharing mine with 4 teenage
girls."
And last but not least, the number one choice of those polled,
1. How I ate my Way Through COnference - "The 7-Day Plan."
As Bartels and James would say, "Thank you very much for your support."
Watch for the final issue of Cyber-Crier 97. God bless. Bye.
.........................................................................
CONFERENCE CRIER -- THE FINAL ISSUE!!!
My apologies for the two week delay. I was on vacation in Colorado, but
thought that I could take care of it while there. Couldn't get things to
work on unfriendly machines and uncoordinated technology. Anyway, here is
the final issue, covering Friday and Sabbath, all but the evening program
in which incoming president John Bevis introduced his new theme for the
coming year: "A Chosen Generation."
TUNED IN TO AND TURNED ON BY THE WORD
What are you tuned in to? What perks
up your ears The sounds of nature?
The dropping of a quarter on the sidewalk?
Pastor Gordon Lawton shared with us
Thursday evening the message that we need
to be tuned in to God's Word. People can be
tunedd in and focused on any number of
things Take stamp collecting, for example.
Or how about fruit stickers?
Well, that's what Gordon reported to us. He
has dozens and dozens of colorful little
stickers that you peel of of fruit. Because
of this hobby, Gordon knows that "4011'
means 'banana' on every cash register in the
countrt! When you focus, on fruit, you
learn and grow -- in that particular
discipline.
You might want~ to try to discover how
well people are tuned in to SDB's in your
neighborhood. Try this. Go one half mile
from your church and ask directions to the
Seventh Day Baptist Church!
But turning to the subject at hand, we
are to be tuned in to the Word of God.
Central idea: "We need to be focused and
thoughtfull before we can truly say we are
tuned in to the Word of God."
The text was Nehemiah 8:1-8, in
which the Word of God was read to the
people of Israel. This is after the exile.
After the resettlement back in Israel.
And after the temple and the walls of the city
were rebuilt. Now the people gathered.
They Congregated, and then they Called for the Book,
the reading of the Word.
Ezra came forth and did so. The word
was read as thee people stood and listened.
It was presented and explained to them so that
they could understand it. There was Comprehension.
And then the response was an
overwhelming emotion. They Cried. They
came to a realization of their unworthiness,
and of all that God had done, and of who
they were before Him. But then the leaders
of Israel Corrected them by saying,'Don't
do that." Don't cry? Don't weep in
response to the reading andd comprehension
of the Word? No, not today. This is a
sacred day; a day of celebration. Let there
not be weeping, 'for the joy of the Lord is
your strength.'
And so the festival continued as the
people celebrated the Feast of Booths.
Finally they mde a Covenant together.
They vowed before God and each other that
they wonld remain faithful only to God, they
would keep the Sabbath, they would devote
themselves to the temple and the sacrifices,
And they would give to the work of the Lord.
When people are tuned in, Pastor
Lawton observed, they get turned on to the
Word of God. When they turn to God,
seeking Him and His will He will respond
and they will receive new insight and
blessing from him. They will have a new
hunger for the Word.
But it doesn't always happen immediately,
or instantly. Many times it will require a
long period of focused attention. It will
mean study and reflection. Again, Gordon
emphasized, "We need to be focused and
thoughtful before we can truly say we are
tuned in to the Word of God.
Tuning in to God, leads to getting turned or
by the Word, and that leads to triumphant
living. Tuned in, Turned on and
Triumphant.
COUNCIL ON MINISTRY
Edgar Wheeler opened the
presentation of the CouncIl on MInIstry. Of
course the purpose of the C.O.M. is to
promote, educate and sustain the SDB
ordained ministry. The director and dean is
Rod Henry. Members of the Council are
Edgar Wheeler, Luan Ellis, Lorna Graffius,
Gordon Lawton, Bernie Wethington and
Norm Burdick.
Nello Carmichael hem Battle Creek,
MI has completed his first year of seminary.
Nello and Bill Burks of Little Rock, AR
completed the Summer tnstitute course in
history & polity, taught by Janet Thorngate
and Rod Henry.
There are four students in the TIME
program. Chris Mattison, Salemville, PA;
Harold Smith, Bronx, NY; Sergei
Bogolepov, Russia; and L.B. Lee, Colorado
Springs, CO.
Robert Van Horn has now graduated
from the TIME program. His ordination
will be next month in Columhus, OH.
Way to go, Robert!
The New Worker Orientation has one
student, Keith Julson of Portage, WI.
Pastor's Conference was in Daytona
Beach March 11-15 with 67 in attendance.
The theme was "Pastoring in a Kinship
System."
The Committee on Support and
Retirement (COSAR) has 37 recipients for
the old retirement plan. A retired pastor of
40 years service receives $746 per month.
The first graduate of the Bi-vocational
Training Support program is Leon Wheeler
of Alfred, NY. He graduated with his M.S.
in Elementary Education from Alfred
University. Good work!
Four young men voiced their calling to
the pastorate: Nick Kerster, Milton, WI;
John Pethtel, Salem, WV; Scott Smith,
North Loup, NE; and Scott Graffius,
Marlboro, NJ.
The program ended with a standing
ovation for all our pastors and the Christ-
filled work they do. Finally, Rod Henry
pronounced a blessing on all of our
ministers.
-Christina Cain
JAVA, JESUS, AND A JOVIAL GOOD TIME
A Wednesday night, friends, entertainment,
and a good cup of Joe. The young adult-
sponsored second annual "Coffee House"
took place on Main Street in Lindsborg a
couple of nights ago.
By half-past nine people began to roll into
the small establishment and by ten o'clock the
coffee house was completely inundated by
SDBers, much to the surprise of the few locals
who had come for a simple cup of coffee.
Eric Davis (a.k.a. Doctor Luuuuv) kicked
things off and kept things running with some
wit, some songs, and some really bad jokes.
But as he said, "This stuff isn't supposed to be
funny, folks; I'm just trying to pass the time
away."
The coffee was some of the best this
reporter has had in a long while. The hot cafe
mocha - primo! And I heard the Italian
sodas and the espresso were quite good as
well.
But what we were really there for was to
see and hear our friends perform. And what
great performances there were. If there is
anyone who stiil needs to be persuaded that
SDBers are a talented bunch, open mic. night
at the coffee house would have done it. But
no clapping, please! Only a cool-cat finger-
snapping, man.
Ann if anyone were to question whether
SDBers love the Lord, there would be no
question after seeing act after act that praised
God, had fun in the spirit of God, demonstrated
a love for God, held a scriptural
message, or some combination of the above.
So the fellowship and fun of General
Conference continued on Wednesday night.
And what better place than at the second
annual Coffee House? Make mine a hot cafe
mocha. Extra caffeine, please - there are
still six hours until morning.
-Benjamin Cruzan
EMAIL GREETINGS . . .
The following excerpts have come from
people who received the Crier by email this
week.
Greetings in Jesus!!! Thanks for sending the
Crier. All of you at Conference have been on
our hearts this week, and in many ways we miss
being there. Then we discovered the Crier on
the E-Mail, and well, it's not quite like being
there, but closer. I have down-loaded the issues
.... and printed a copy off to share in Church ...
Please give our love to the Brethren, and assure
them that our experience is that God is
AWESOME all the time! His healing work
continues and the results are Better all the time!
With you in spirit,
Bill Shobe
Christian greetings from Bosnia! Thanks so
much for sending the Crier. l'm enjoying it
tremendously but crying that I can't be there in
person. . . Hello to everyone with special
greetings to Andrea and Lydia, the Salem
delegation ... God's continued blessings upon
you all. I am lifting you up in prayer Thanks for
yours.
Love made possible through Christ,
Paul Davis
We certainly miss being at conference
this year, and want to let you know how much
we appreciate receiving the Crier through our
email. Thanks. Our prayers are with you all
this week.
Gordon & Bev Kilts
Greetings in the Name of the Lord!!!
How wonderful it has been to receive the
daily Crier. I look forward with eager anticipation
each day to see the activities of Conference. It's
the next best thing to being there. Thanks to all
who make this possible... We praise God with
you that your enthusiasm has included us.
Please say hello to all.
Cindi (Graffius) McKenzie
We will be reprinting some of the Crier
articles in the FN [Fishermen's Net, an email
newsletter]. Also, the Crier has been posted on
the World Wide Web John Conrod
CONFERENCE BUSINESS
Business Session #5 was called to
order by Conference President Owen
Probasco shortly after 10:30 this [Friday]
morning. Minutes from Session #4 (held
Thursday morning) were read, but before
action was taken Conference Pastor Mynor
Soper offered an opening prayer. It was
then voted to accept these minutes.
The report of the Committee on
Young Adult Interests was read. President
Probasco commended this committee for its
fine work and delegates showed their
agreement by breaking into applause. It was
voted to approve the report along with its
five recommendations:
1) that in the future only one meeting
of the committee be held so that young
adults may participate in other interest
committees and ministry opportunities
during the week of General Conference
2) that Young Adult Bible Studies be
coordinated with overall Conference
scheduling
3) that a praise service for everyone be
held each evening following the worship
program
4) that information on young adult
activities be sent to each church (in advance
of General Conference)
5) that the Young Adult Committee of
the SDB Board of Christian Education (for
the upcoming program year) consist of:
Rachel Parker, Tim Rood, Dave Stall, Steve
Graffius, Matt Berg, and Stephanie Scholtz.
Since there were no nominations made
from the floor, the individuals previously
placed into nomination ran unopposed and
were elected.
Pastor Kenneth VanHorn responded to
the president's call for "other business" by
bearing witness to "a good Samaritan" on
campus who had helped him when he was
experiencing car trouble!
It was voted that the minutes for
Session#5 would be prepared by the
president and the recording secretary for
General Conference.
The final business session of the
year's General Conference was adjourned by
10:45 a.m.
(NEWLY ELECETED0 NOMINATIONS
President Rev. John Bevis
President-elect Norma Rudert
Second Vice President Stephen Rogers
Third Vice President Scott Hausrath
Recording Sec. (Business) Raakeli Watt
Recording Sec. (Program) Janet Butler
Denominational Treas. Calvin Babcock
Asst. Den. Treas. Ron Ochs
General Council (terms ending 2000)
Norma Rudert
Rev. Herlitz Condison
Christian Sec. Action (terms ending 2000)
Angie Osborn
Leora Pinder
John Pethtel
Phil Rood
Com, On Faith & Order (t.e. 2000)
Rev. Kenneth Burdick
Janet Thorngate
COSAR (term ending 2000)
Jim Goodrich
Eric Rudert
Coord. of Obituaries Jean Jorgensen
Council on Ministry (term ending 2000)
Luan Ellis
Rev. Bernie Wethington
Tract & Com.. Council(t. e. 2000)
Cheri Appel
Joel Osborn
Trustees of SDB Mem. Fund t. e. 2000)
Myron McPherson
Stephen Pierce
Richard Shepard
SDB Women's Society Bd. of Directors:
Pres Ruth Probasco
Vice President Charlotte Chroniger
Rec. Secretary Tanya Morgan
Treasurer Marie Davis
Sabbath Recorder Women's Page Editor
Donna Bond
Newsletter Editor Patricia Cruzan
SCSC Committee:
Charlotte Chroniger, Jan Bond,
Jeanne Dickinson, Cindy DuBois
Sandy Layton, Dodi Moncrief
President ex-officio
Robe of Achievement Committee:
Elizabeth Bidwell, Elsa ScuIl,
Yvonne Stephan
Women's Society Scrapbook
Yvonne Stephan
Tuition Fund Committee:
Marie Davis, Sharon Davis
SCSC Historian Marietta Sutton
TOP TEN THEMES
WE'D LIKE TO SEE
IN THE SABBATH RECORDER ... :-)
IO. The Sabbath: To Nap or not to Nap
9. Meal of Sharing: An SDB Icon
8. SDBees--Caught in the Web?
7. Church rummage sales, a necessary evil
6. Special Council on Ministry Issue:
Summer Institute: Spare the Rod, Spoil the Pastor?
T.I.M.E.: Has the Clock Run Out?
Pastor Initiation Rites: Is "Chubby Bunny" ethical?
5. Hymns/Hers? SDB's go Politically Correct
4. Inside the Recorder ---
Obituaries vs. Features: Which should I Read First?
Pearls from the Past or Diamonds from the Dead?
Kevin's Korner: "But Mom, I didn't do it..."
3. Ice Cream: A necessary, Lindsborg tradition
2. Conference dorm bathrooms 'I survived
sharing mine with four teenage girls!'
--Drama in real life
I. How I ate my way through Conference
"The 7-Day Plan"
--Rob & Cherri Appel
1997 SCSC PRESENTATION
The center was filled to capacity.
Persons of every age were in attendance,
anticipating what has often been the
highlight of the conference week. Suddenly
from the sides of the room, the call
reverberated, "GOD IS GOOD ALL THE
TIME!!" "GOD IS GOOD ALL THE
TIME!!" Twenty well dressed, fresh faced,
good lookin' smiling young folks came to
the front. Althea Rood, SCSC training
director, was at the piano, as the 12 young
ladies and 8 young men blended into a
lovely choir to sing "My Jesus, My Savior".
As a whole choral group they
introduced themselves as TEAM
DELIVERANCE reciting Ps. 32:7 for their
base verse. This was followed by more
sincere praising of God through singing of
"You Are My Hiding Place".
Next, each team introduced
themselves by name, home church, team
name, and the church they served this
summer. The Bible verses for each team
were recited with a variety of enthusiasm
and motions. (If you want to know more
details, see the excellent SCSC display of
photos and information at the back of the
auditorium.)
Debbie Moncrief stepped up to the
microphone to share a journal entry she had
written while serving at Camp Paul Hummel. She
spoke of watching God at work in the lives
of campers, and expressed amazement of the
spiritual growth she witnessed in herself and
others. Following this theme, the young
ladies sang "I Never Get Used to What Yet
Do".
Nate Walker gave a testimony of how,
even though he went out to serve, God
worked within him. He had seen personal
growth, especially in trust and faith. By
surrendering our whole selves to the Lord,
we can do anything. Nate expressed
confidence in the future, because "God can
take care of me". With Steve Graffius on
guitar, and Dustin Riley on harmonica, the
young men sang "The Color Song", which
speaks of colors to represent what God has
and can do for us.
Bernie Wethington, pastor on the
training staff, gave out the ribbons to the 10
"rookie" (first year) SCSCers. He was a
rookie himself this year, and hope was
expressed that he would continue to serve.
Mary Jane McPherson, a long time
staffer, and Charlotte Chroniger,
representative of the Women's Board, gave
out the ribbons to the 2nd and 3rd year
veterans of the corps.
Much applause was given to those
who have been involved both this year and
in the past. SCSCers, training staff, Project
Directors, cooks, prayer and financial
supporters were all asked to stand and be
recognized while Charlotte pointed out the
need to have everyone working together to
glorify God through this service
organization.
In closing, "Refiner's Fire" was sung
to express the desire and commitment of the
SCSCers to continue working for God long
after the summer has ended.
SABBATH MORNING WORSHIP
What an enjoyable Sabbath worship we shared this morning! There was just
the right balance and mix of contemporary and traditional; of praise
choruses and old hymns. It is the way Conference likes to worship -- in
joy and in unity.
The Conference choir, Stained Glass, and The Clothes all shred in music
that enhanced our worship experience.
Pastor Harold King brought the message, "Tuned in, Turned on and
Triumphant." Searching for an ideal figure from the Bible who modeled
being triumphant, Harold eliminated many poossibilities for one reason or
another. Both Old and New Testaments provide plenty of candidates, but
today we would hear about a lesser known disciple, Phillip. Only the
gospel writer, John, gives us any information about Phillip beyond a mere
listing (always fifth for some unknown reason!) with the rest of the
twelve.
Taking a look at several vignettes in the fourth gospel, Harold boserved
that in the spiritual pilgrimage of Phillip, there was both good news and
bad news. We first meet him in John 1, where he is called by Jesus to
"Come, follow me." And Phillip not only answered the call but immediately
went and found Nathaniel and brought him to Jesus. He witnessed to someone
else. Phillip was tuned in and turned on. That's good news.
Next we see Phillip in John 6, where he is tested with a question from
Jesus. Before them are 5000 hungry people, and Jesus asked his disciples
how they would be fed. Phillip's answer was, in effect, "We can't do it,
we don't have the money."
Something had happened. Whereas
ealier he was tuned in and turned on, now
Phillip seems to be lacking in faith.
Worried, wondering about material things.
Wondering about their own securty. That's
bad news.
How many of us Pastor King
challenged, often fall into the same negative
thinking?
The next Phillip sighting is in Job 12,
just after the triumphant entry of Jesus into
Jerusalem. Some Greek inquirers camee to
Phillip asking,'We want to see Jesus." To
this request Phillip went, not to Jesus, but to
Andrew. Perhaps he had to see if it was
okay. To check these guys out. He may
have been concerned about what these
people were like; where they were coming
from; were they acceptable? Again he
seems to have lost his focus. Not good
In John 14 Jesus is bidding fairwell to
his disciples when Phillip makes what
appears to be an embarrassingly obvious
request, "Lord, show us the Father."
Jesus patiently explains, "Don't you
know me, even after being with me for so
long? If you have seen me, you have seen
the Father." It seems that all the immediate
and pressing concerns had caused Phillip to
lose sight of the big picture.
Finally, in Acts 1, we spot Phillip one
last time (not to be confused with the other
Phillip mentioned later in Acts) Here he is
simply seen and listed among those
faithfully waiting for the coming of the Holy
Spirit. He is there because he is triumphant. He
is still one of the followers of Christ.
Church historians believe Phillip Iater
went out from Jerusalem to preach and
teach; That he was crucified, a martyr for
Jesus Christ. He was triumphant in Christ!
Following the message, the Body of
Christ gathered at General Conference
shared in the bread and the cup, an
affirmation of our faith in our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ, and of our bond of love
and unity with one another.
"We are all pencils in the hand of a loving
God who is sending love letters to the world."
--Mother Teresa
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
PORTAGE, WI SEVENTH DAY BAPTIST
CHURCH WELCOMED AS A NEW
MEMBER CHURCH INTO THE
CONFERENCE
HISTORICAL SOCIETY GOLD HEADED
CANE: JANET THORNGATE,
SALEM, W V
BOARD of CHRISTlAN EDUCATlON
SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHER OF
THE YEAR: JANICE BOND
SHILOH, NJ
SCRIPTURE MEMORIZATION AWARD:
TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
WOMEN'S SOCIEY ROBE OF
ACHIEVEMENT: BETH BURDICK
CONFERENCE OFFERING:
$14.749.02
REGISTEREO FOR CONFERENCE. 508
CHURCHES REPRESENTED: 56
Top 10 Statements Ministers
Would Love to Hear
10. Hey, it's my turn to sit in the front pew!
9. I was so enthralled, I never noticed the
sermon went overtime 20 minutes.
8. Personally, I find witnessing more
enjoyable than golfing.
7. Preacher, I've decided to give our church
the $500 a month I used to send to the
televangelists.
6. I volunteer to be the one you always call
when there aren't enough child-care workers
5. Forget about the guidelines. Let's step out
on faith and just do lt!
4. I love it when we sing hymns we've never
heard.
3. Since we're all here, let's start the meeting
early.
2. Nothing inspires me and strengthens my
commitment like the annual Stewardship
emphasis.
1. Preacher, we'd like to send you to that
Bible Cruise in the Bahamas.
Well, this about does it for the 1997 Crier! Glad we could include all you
email enthusiasts! God bless you all. Drop me a line some time!
I love getting email. pleg
.........................................................................
Transcribed and uploaded by: New Covenant Ministries
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|>=> NEW CoVENANT MINISTRIES Fisherman's Net Publications >=>|
|>=> In memory of Cyber Scribe >=>|
|>=> .e0e. .e0e. >=>|
|>=> 0HHHH~HHHH0 oThe time is coming, says the Lord: >=>|
|>=> `HHoo ooHH' when I will make a new covenant.o >=>|
|>=> `HH HH' I will put My laws into...their hearts.o >=>|
|>=> `V' Jeremiah 31:31-33 * Hebrews 8:10 >=>|
|>=> http://netministries.org/see/charmin/CM00050 >=>|
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