SEPT2021 - MID-AMERICA UNION Constituency Report - Mid-America Union Conference
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MID-AMERICA SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST NEWS & INSPIRATION
SEPT2021
Yes, Lord!
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG
MID-AMERICA UNION TOGETHER IN MISSION
Constituency Report
SEPT 2021
MAGAZINE CONSTITUENCY REPORT
Mid-America Union Presidents’ Council is comprised of the union’s officers,
conference presidents and the president of Union College (photo taken in 2018).
WHAT IS A CONSTITUENCY SESSION? finances, church membership, audits and other statistics
are also received and voted. Additionally, the delegates will
All members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church are vote on proposed changes to the union Constitution and
part of a constituency, which is defined as a group of Bylaws.
voters in a specified region who elect representatives
to a legislatorial body. Church members of the Mid- WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
America Union Conference have designated 394
delegates who will gather at the College View Church
It’s about accountability. The union president, vice
in Lincoln, Nebraska, to represent them during the
presidents and department directors will present
ninth quinquennial constituency session occurring
reports and be available for questions. The president
Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021.
of Union College will also give a report, since Union
College’s Constituency Session is joined with the Mid-
WHAT HAPPENS AT SESSION? America Union’s.
As required by our Bylaws, every five years But there’s more than business reports and votes! It’s
delegates elect union leadership, receive reports also a celebration highlighting mission, evangelism and
from union leaders and entities, and vote on the blessings of the Lord in the past five years. It’s an
general decisions and church business. Reports on opportunity to analyze the state of the Mid-America Union
Conference—organizationally, financially and statistically—
and to cast a vision for how best to advance God’s work in
the heartland of America.
OUTLOOK (ISSN 0887-977X) September 2021, Volume 42, Number 9. OUTLOOK
WHO IS REPRESENTING ME?
is published monthly (10 months per year) by the Mid-America Union Conference of
Seventh-day Adventists, 8307 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516. Printed at Pacific
Press Publishing Association, Periodical postage paid at Lincoln, NE and additional Please contact your local conference for a list of the
offices. USPS number 006-245. Postmaster: Send all undeliverables to CFF. Free for delegates from your area.
Mid-America church members and $10 per year for subscribers. ©2017 Mid-America
Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Unless otherwise credited, all images are
iStock. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are registered trademarks of the General
Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
CONTACT us by email: info@maucsda.org or phone: 402.484.3000.
2 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021
MID-AMERICA
UNION CONFERENCE
President
Gary Thurber
Secretary
Hubert J. Morel Jr.
Treasurer
Troy Peoples
Church Ministries
——
Communication
Brenda Dickerson
Education
CAN I GET LIVE UPDATES ON WHAT’S The Mid-America Union Conference would LouAnn Howard
Hispanic Ministries
like to thank each member of the Executive
HAPPENING? Committee and the Constitution and Bylaws
Roberto Correa
Human Resources
Raylene Jones
Committee for their term of service (Sept. Ministerial
Yes! Follow the Constituency Session on Sept. 2016-Sept. 2021): ——
12 through OUTLOOK’s Facebook or Twitter. Religious Liberty
Darrel Huenergardt
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Women’s Ministries
facebook.com/OutlookMag Nancy Buxton
twitter.com/myOutlookMag CENTRAL STATES ROCKY MOUNTAIN midamericaadventist.org
CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
OUTLOOK STAFF
Roger Bernard Ed Barnett Editor:
WHY DO UNIONS EXIST? Gary Collins Sam Miller
Brenda Dickerson
Digital Media Manager:
Joann Herrington Wayne Morrison Hugh Davis
All levels of Adventist organization exist to Dwayne Williams Carol Turk
outlookmag.org
support local churches and schools—from
DAKOTA CONFERENCE MID-AMERICA UNION DESIGN
the General Conference with its world Hallock Writing & Design
CONFERENCE
divisions, to the union conferences and the Daniel Hanson brennanhallock.com
local conferences, to which the churches Darren Purdy Nancy Buxton
CONFERENCE
belong. No other level connects the parts of Mark Weir Darrel Huenergardt
NEWS EDITORS
the church as directly as does the union. Nor Hubert J. Morel, Jr.
Central States
does any other part have time to do what the IOWA-MISSOURI Troy Peoples Cryston Josiah
CONFERENCE
union does. Gary Thurber josiah.c@central-states.org
913.371.1071
Lou Alfalah central-states.org
The union conference serves by providing Steve Bascom UNION COLLEGE
Dakota
assessment tools, facilitating collaboration, Matt Cook Vinita Sauder Jodi Dossenko
j.dossenko@gmail.com
offering mentoring and training, and Dean Coridan 701.751.6177
providing a layer of communication and ADVENTHEALTH dakotaadventist.org
accountability between local conferences KANSAS-NEBRASKA
Ken Bacon Iowa-Missouri
CONFERENCE
and the global church structure. Sam Huenergardt
Christina Coston
515.223.1197
Ron Carlson imsda.org
Union conferences are also shared service Josh Huenergardt OTHER INSTITUTIONS
Kansas-Nebraska
centers for teacher training and certification Michael Halfhill IN OUR TERRITORY Stephanie Gottfried
sgottfried@ks-ne.org
and school accreditation, regional Pathfinder Brad Forbes 785.478.4726
MINNESOTA
camporees, ministerial conventions, religious (AdventSource) ks-ne.org
CONFERENCE
liberty services, low-cost loans to build Minnesota
or renovate churches and schools, and Marilyn Carlson Diane Thurber Savannah Carlson
Justin Lyons scarlson@mnsda.com
coordination of humanitarian aid through (Christian Record) 763.424.8923
Adventist Community Services. Eric Mokua mnsda.com
Rocky Mountain
In addition, union leaders provide counsel CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS COMMITTEE
Rajmund Dabrowski
rayd@rmcsda.org
and support for the Board of Trustees of 303.733.3771
higher educational institutions, maintain lines Hubert J. Morel Jr. (chair) Don Krassin rmcsda.org
of accountability with Adventist healthcare Darrel Huenergardt Barbara Parrott
UNION COLLEGE
institutions, and publish the union paper that (secretary) Robert Wagley Ryan Teller
helps members be aware of and celebrate Steve Trana Kyoshin Ahn (NAD invitee) ryteller@ucollege.edu
402.486.2538
what God is doing in each territory. Joseph T. Ikner ucollege.edu
TIMELINE
ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY
of Seventh-day Adventists in Mid-America
Northern Union established with headquarters in
Minneapolis. The territory included Minnesota, North
Dakota, South Dakota, and Alberta, Manitoba, and
Saskatchewan, Canada. In 1907 the Canadian provinces
were restructured into the Western Canadian Union
Conference, and Iowa was added to the Northern Union.
The Northern Union Reaper was the official magazine.
GC Session held
at College View Christian Record, the denomination’s
Church in Lincoln, publishing ministry for the blind,
Union during which Ellen moved from Battle Creek, Michigan,
College White spoke to to Lincoln, Nebraska. The Central
established delegates and Union gave Austin Wilson missionary
on 50 acres students credentials and $15 for preparing and
near Lincoln, 1897 distributing the Christian Record. By
Nebraska the 1950s the ministry was flourishing.
1891 1902
1888-89 1895 1902 1932 1947
U.S. and Due to financial Central States
Canadian challenges Mission formed
mission work during the Great to lead the work
separated into Depression, among African
districts (now the Central and Americans. First
called unions) Central Union established Northern Unions superintendent
by the General Boulder with headquarters in merged into one (president) was
Conference Sanitarium Lincoln. The territory union named the Thomas Milton
founded by covered Colorado Central Union Rowe. The
John Harvey (including San Juan Conference. mission began
Kellogg. County, NM), Kansas, Five years later operations with
Missouri, Nebraska and the unmerged 798 members.
Wyoming. The official and swapped
church paper was magazine names.
called the Central Union
Advance (changed by 1911
to Central Union Outlook).
4 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021
Central Union
headquarters moved
from 4547 Calvert
Street to 8550
Pioneers Boulevard
and included Home
Health Education NAD Ministries
Service established Distribution Center
in the 1950s. When started in 1982 in
the union decided Lincoln, Nebraska,
Church Union College
in 1993 to no was rebranded
membership total became the
longer manage the as AdventSource,
was 53,303 in 510 first private
HHES program, today an internet-
congregations institution in
the billing and based organization
spread within America to
distribution portion that offers over
one million install computer
moved to Pacific 5,000 ministry
square miles of terminals in
Press Publishing resources to
territory. In 2020 every dorm
Association. Adventist churches
membership was room.
and schools
1977 64,787 in 525 worldwide.
congregations.
1997
Shawnee Mission
established in Kansas 1980
City as a one-story, 65-
bed community hospital
1962 1983
1952 1980 1981 1998
Central States Central Mid-America Mid-America
Mission received and Union held Union
conference status Northern its first official headquarters
with 17 churches, Unions constituency moved to
2 companies re-merged, session at the 8307 Pine
and 20 full time again for financial reasons. Sheraton- Lake Road.
employees. The Headquarters were Royal Hotel in
territory covered located in Lincoln and Kansas City,
six states: Missouri, the magazine was named Missouri.
Kansas, Nebraska, Mid-America Adventist
Iowa, Colorado Outlook. The first
and Wyoming. president was E.S. Reile.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 5
MVV | STATS
MID-AMERICA UNION TODAY*
OVERVIEW
Headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska, the Mid-America Union Conference facilitates the work
of the Seventh-day Adventist Church throughout a nine-state region in the Midwestern United
States. Organized into six local conferences, the territory spans Colorado, Iowa, Kansas,
Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming and San Juan County in
New Mexico.
The Mid-America Union is part of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Protestant denomination
with over 20 million members in more than 200 countries. There are 13 world divisions and nine
unions in the North American Division.
The Adventist Church structure prioritizes local congregations, with the remaining
organizations in place to offer support. The union level provides representation to the General
Conference, along with administrative leadership and support to conferences, schools,
healthcare networks and other ministries. Each year, MAUC organizations sponsor dozens of
programs and projects that address human needs, improve quality of life and introduce people
to Jesus.
Mission Values
Strengthening local
conferences and
COLLABORATION
institutions
Vision
Providing a steady flow of
leadership, communication,
DIVERSITY RESPONSIBILITY
mentoring, and training
*Learn more at midamericaadventist.org
6 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021
6
MAUC AT A GLANCE*
64,787
MEMBERS ELEMENTARY
65
CONFERENCES SCHOOLS/ACADEMIES
525
CONGREGATIONS
256
8
TEACHERS/
223
ADMINISTRATORS
FULL-TIME PASTORS
HOSPITALS 1
3 ADVENTIST BOOK
CENTERS
HIGHER EDUCATION
UNION COLLEGE
8 ADVENTIST COMMUNITY ND
9
SERVICES CENTERS
MN
CAMPS
SD
WY
IA
NE
CO MO
KS
NM
*As of Dec. 31, 2020 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 7
PRESIDENTIAL SUPPORTING OTHER LEADERS Steve Nazario, June 2021 The Mid-America Union Conference staff are committed to serving Jesus Christ and building up His kingdom in the heartland by providing a steady flow of leadership, communication, mentoring and training. I know it is a cliché to say this, been. As a result, relationships for many weeks! these past five years. It has but I am amazed at how fast have been bruised or broken, While thinking of these been nothing short of a mir- five years can go by. Here we families quarreled and, unfor- challenges we faced, a Bible acle to watch how our church are preparing for another con- tunately, some of our churches text comes to my mind imme- families rallied around their stituency meeting for the Mid- were also damaged. diately. Romans 8:35-37 reads, pastors and teachers. Every America Union Conference, Who can forget the George “Can anything ever separate week, my wife and I attended and I just don’t know where Floyd moment when time us from Christ’s love? Does it a number of worship services the time has gone. seemed to stand still on that mean he no longer loves us if with churches who made sure As I reflect on the past five awful day? I don’t believe we we have trouble or calamity, worshiping together still took years, much has taken place will ever be the same individ- or are persecuted, or hungry, place, even if it was online. which has brought changes to ually or as a country again— or destitute, or in danger, or Faithful members went out our world … some good and which is not a bad thing. I threatened with death? (As the of their way to return their some not so good. In the past hope that through this tragedy Scriptures say, ‘For your sake tithes and offerings to keep five years, our country seems we learned, grew and became we are killed every day; we are our schools, churches and to be more divided than ever, more Christlike, accepting being slaughtered like sheep.’) ministries functioning, even especially around politics. We everyone as loved, cherished No, despite all these things, if remotely. There is no doubt went through several conten- sons and daughters of God. overwhelming victory is ours the Lord had His hands upon tious elections together and, Then who knew five years through Christ, who loved us.” us, sustaining us and giving unfortunately, we weren’t ago we would suffer through a What a promise! And hope and peace, even during as gracious and kind to one pandemic, which closed down honestly, we saw this promise the darkest hours. Like Paul, another as we should have church and in-person school fulfilled right before our eyes I am convinced that nothing 8 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021
can separate us from the love
of God.
with numbers and has done a
superb job helping to keep the
PLANNING AND opportunities to encourage
one another and bless those
union fiscally sound.
In addition, I would like to
PREPARING in our communities with the
good news of what Jesus has
STRONG TEAMS acknowledge Pastor Gil Webb, done for each of us.
who served as executive secre- As I look ahead to the The General Conference has
In this president’s report, tary during the first four years next five years, I see so much a new slogan they are using
I want to focus on the of the quinquennium. Pastor promise for our church here throughout the world for the
people who really make Webb served in this union in the heartland of America. next several years: “I Will Go!”
ministry happen here in his entire 45 years in minis- First, did you know the The North American Division
Mid-America. My work as try. What a gift he was in our International Pathfinder has adopted that theme along
president is more about sup- office and field, and we wish Camporee, which has been with the phrase “Together in
porting the leaders around him and his wife, Pat, the held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Mission—I Will Go!” In Mid-
me than anything else. And happiest of retirement days in since 1999, will be relocated to America, we wholeheartedly
let me tell you, I am blessed, the years to come! Gillette, Wyoming? Yes, nearly embrace both of these rallying
and I know it because I am Our departmental directors 60,000 people will gather from cries, along with our own sim-
surrounded by some of the also give their all to their vari- around the globe to be a part ple banner of “Yes, Lord!”
best leaders in the North ous roles. Each has committed of this amazing youth event. I This is really just a prayer
American Division. to serve this constituency by can’t wait for all those young we invite each one to pray. It
Let me start with thanking being attentive and responsive people to experience our part is a prayer of willingness to
our conference presidents. to the needs of each of their of the world! Secondly, the work together in mission and
Our six presidents are effec- counterparts in our confer- world church is coming to our to go wherever the Lord calls
tive, spirit-filled workers for ences. I urge you to pay close territory not once but twice us to serve. Whether it is to a
the Lord. They lead their attention to their reports on in the next quinquennium— mission field on the other side
team of pastors, teachers, the following pages of the to St. Louis for the General of the globe, or in a children’s
departmental directors and outstanding ministry that Conference Session in 2022 Sabbath school room in
office staff where the rubber has taken place here in Mid- and again in 2025. Neligh, Nebraska, each of us is
meets the road in ministry. America as our Savior has As exciting as these events a needed member of the body
They are a joy to work with worked through them. are, still the most profound of Christ—called into service
and are always advocating I also want to say a word ministry will be happening for Him and for others.
and doing all they can for about Union College. Without in Mid-America at our local What would the next five
their frontline workers. They a doubt, Union College is one churches and schools spread years look like if each one in
love their ministry teams, of the greatest assets we have throughout our territory. Mid-America simply said,
and you can tell it by the way in Mid-America. The training The truth is our pastors and “Yes, Lord! I am yours. Love
they talk about them and and education going on there teachers are there day in and me, guide me, fill my soul, Yes,
pray for them. truly blesses every corner of day out, working alongside Lord, take full control.” Just
Next, I want to say a few our union. Dr. Vinita Sauder our members to provide imagine …
words about the people I am and her team do an outstand-
blessed to work with here ing job guiding the higher
in our Mid-America Union education ministry taking
office. I am grateful that place there.
my fellow officers hold me In addition, MAUC sup-
accountable to the mission of ports the medical ministry of
our church each and every day. AdventHealth which operates a
Dr. Hubert Morel is new to our number of hospitals and clinics
union, and he hit the ground across our territory. The leaders
running as executive secretary. of AH are deeply committed
His experience and love for to the Adventist Church and
people and the church make to blessing our communities
him a joy to work with. Troy through extending the healing
Peoples, Mid-America Union ministry of Christ.
treasurer, has skills most of us GARY THURBER RAYLENE JONES
just don’t have. He is excellent is president of the Mid-America is executive assistant to the
Union. president.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 9
SECRETARIAT
SHARING THE DATA
I
t is with great delight and has a unique and distinctive our praises to God. He has ministries, these individuals
pleasure that I present to responsibility to gather and been good to Mid-America. took to heart the mission of
you the Ninth Regular chronicle with accuracy During this quinquennium Jesus Christ, went out and
Quinquennium Session the figures and data that 16,265 persons were added did battle with the enemy of
report of the Mid-America emphasize the successes and to the union and 5,981 were God and grew the kingdom
Union Conference of gains, as well as the failings baptized, while 1,719 joined of God in the process. They
Seventh-day Adventists. This and inadequacies, of the by profession of faith and have courageously made an
report reflects the stellar conferences during this past 8,565 transferred in by letter. impact upon their church,
work of the immediate past quinquennium, thereby mak- However, member transfers community, conference
MAUC executive secretary, ing this office a vital compo- out by letter, deaths, dropped, and certainly Mid-America
Elder Gil Webb. Since assum- nent to the effectiveness and and missing totaled 14,939. Union Conference.
ing this position as your new growth of the union. That reflects a 92% loss of the
union executive secretary In this report, I will attempt gain; hence an increase of
in January, I have had the to give you a snapshot of 1,326 members. WORDS OF
unique privilege of seeing the progression of the union These facts and figures
the indelible mark and solid based on the reports received reflect the commitment and APPRECIATION
foundation that Elder Webb from the conferences. The dedication of our pastors,
laid in this office. account will show both teachers, Bible instructors, To my fellow Mid-America
Today I stand on Elder gains and losses. You will church officers and members Union Conference officers,
Webb’s shoulders, as I take up notice that in spite of the filled with the Spirit of God. Elder Gary Thurber, presi-
the mantle of leadership to challenges, pitfalls of the Through various mechanisms dent, and Elder Troy Peoples,
serve you in humility of spirit. economy and the COVID-19 such as evangelism, reclaim- treasurer, I express my deep
These past five years have not pandemic, we can still offer ing strategies and other and sincere appreciation
been without their challenges.
However, I am grateful to
God for the blessings and
achievements we have experi-
enced together as a union. MEMBERSHIP TOTALS 2016-2020
The COVID-19 pandemic
80K
brought the country—yea the
world—to a standstill. For
a moment, it appeared that 70K
70,014
ministry also experienced a
shortfall. However, ministry, 60K
65,046
64,838
64,743
64,787
though slow, still made an
impact in the Mid-America
50K
Union territory. Our theme
“Yes, Lord!” gives us the
undergirding to continue in 40K
spite of the challenges. The
mission given to us by Jesus 30K
Christ over 2,000 years ago
speaks to that theme and is 20K
still relevant to these times
amid the various challenges
we face. 10K
The office of secretariat
0
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
10 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021for having afforded me the of appreciation to Pennie eternally grateful to you. is that when He does return,
privilege of working with you Yesilcimen who served as the Finally, to you, the constit- He will say to each one of
these past few months. executive assistant to Elder Gil uents of the Mid-America us, “Well done thou good
The efficiency of the day-to- Webb and who also assisted Union Conference, I thank and faithful servant ... enter
day operation of my office is me with information for the you from the depth of thou into the joy of thy Lord”
largely due to the coordinated preparation of this report. my heart for the privilege (Matt. 25:21).
services of my executive assis- To my wife, Raquel, I and opportunity you have May we say “Yes, Lord!” as
tant Raylene Jones. I thank her express heartfelt appreciation afforded me to serve you in we continue to grow in the
for her commitment and ded- for the support, encourage- this capacity. Again, I say grace of God and keep our
ication to making the office of ment, patience, understand- thank you. minds and hearts focused
secretariat run with top-notch ing and honesty you have In Luke 19:13 we are on Jesus Christ and His soon
performance. And I would be shared with me regarding reminded to occupy till He return. Maranatha!
remiss if I did not say a word my work in this office. I am returns. My prayer and hope
Hubert J. Morel, Jr.
CARING FOR THE CHURCH’S PERSONNEL
T
he Human Resources director reports directly to the vice president for administration, and as HR
director I work closely with administration to maintain healthy employee relations and help keep
the day-to-day operations running smoothly throughout all departments. I am also responsible for
ensuring understanding and implementation between employee and employer of the resources, policies
and procedures that generally and legally govern the workplace environment. In addition, I serve as a
resource to our conferences within our union territory as requested, providing legal best practices and
offering emotional support through difficult situations.
Specific Human Resources Responsibilities Include:
• Protecting interests of employees and the organization in
accordance with NAD and MAUC policies and governmen-
tal laws and regulations
• Helping foster a wholesome work environment
• Coordinating the use of insurance carriers, health and
wellness consultants, employee benefit providers and other
outside resources
• Maintaining the system of employee service records
• Processing retirement applications (five over the past
quinquennium)
• Reviewing applications and orienting new employees, assist-
ing in maintaining the employee handbook, and conducting
exit interviews (10 exit interviews and nine onboarding new
employees over the past quinquennium)
People are the heart of every organization and I am most
grateful for the privilege to serve in this role. My daily prayer
is “Yes, Lord! May we follow wherever You lead as we go for- HUBERT J. MOREL JR. RAYLENE JONES
ward together in mission.” is vice president of administration is director of Human Resources
for the Mid-America Union. and executive assistant to the
Raylene Jones vice president for administration.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 11TREASURY
FUNDING OUR MISSION
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.”
1 Chron. 16:34
G STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
od has blessed the Gillette, Wyoming, which was
Mid-America Union formerly held in Oshkosh,
Conference in so Wisconsin. In 2023 we will 2016-2020
many ways over the last five help our local conferences
$500K $1M
years that it’s impossible to be able to send their teachers $654,599
count. Every day brings new to the next national teacher
opportunities to give God the convention. In 2024, the
praise for how He works out Ministerial Department will
$346,917
what seems to be insurmount- be holding the next union-
$157,183
able challenges, which many wide pastors convention. One
$0
$1,125
times are blessings in disguise. of the most exciting projects ($2M) ($1.5M) ($1M) ($500K)
The last five years have seen focuses on Union College’s
their share of ups and downs. plans for a new wellness
Including our fund balances. center. MAUC has committed
In 2016 MAUC was able to to help fund that with at least
pay off half of the debt that half a million dollars in 2022.
was owed on the Krueger As we look over the audited
Center at Union College of financial statements from the
$2.275 million. That was a last five years, in the operating
planned spend-down of our fund we had a net income
($1,833,478)
reserves to save interest cost. gain every year except for
MAUC working capital went 2016 when our Executive 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
down to 115% that year and, Committee voted to help
with God’s blessings, we have reduce the college’s debt. Some
slowly built the reserves back years that gain wasn’t much, associate treasurer from Conference Auditing Services,
to where in 2020 MAUC but it was a gain. Some of the November 2015 to December and has been a great fit for
recommended working capital extraordinary things the union 2019 when she took a call to our office. Our accountant
was 151%. was able to help our confer- become the treasurer of the Evelyn Cornforth retired in
One third of our 2020 ences with financially in the Gulf States Conference in the
recommended working capital past five years were a return Southern Union. The search
is allocated funds set aside for from union reserves of a little for her replacement was a bit
some exciting projects that over a million dollars in 2018 of a challenge since she left
are coming up in the 2021- in unrestricted money, and in right at year-end.
2026 term. We are going to 2020 a little over $584,000 in Then COVID-19 hit
have the privilege to be the COVID-19 relief money. in March of 2020. The
host union for the General “unknown” became the
Conference of Seventh-day norm for most people, as we
Adventists session in both GOD DOES ANSWER had not lived through such
2022 as well as 2025 in St. before. However, the Lord
Louis. Along with those large As we look back, we can knew what we needed, and in
meetings, we are also going see the Lord blessing in other July of 2020 Garrett Holmes
to host in the MAUC terri- ways—not just financially— accepted the call to become
tory the next International these past five years. Gwen the MAUC associate treasurer. TROY PEOPLES
Pathfinder Camporee in Speak served as the MAUC Garrett came from General is vice president for finance of
the Mid-America Union.
12 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 2016-2020
ASSETS LIABILITIES NET ASSETS adjustments to stay within
the budget. Sometimes I don’t
$1M $2M $3M $4M $5M $6M $7M $8M
make everyone happy when I
$7.762M
say “No.” However, we try to
$7.317M
say “Yes” to as many projects as
we can financially, with a few
$6.793M
that stretch our comfort levels.
$6.531M
$6.266M
As MAUC’s treasurer,
I simply say that God has
proven over and over when it
comes to His church, and His
faithful followers giving to it,
$4.356M
$4.199M
that He sometimes chooses to
answer our prayers only when
$3.544M
$3.406M
$3.196M
$3.249M
we step out in faith. If Peter
$3.197M
$3.07M
$3.118M
$3.334M
had not chosen to respond to
the Lord’s request positively
as found in Luke 5:5, he never
would have been blessed
the way the Lord intended.
God’s way of growing us is to
$0
ask us to do things we’re not
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 completely comfortable with
and that test our faith. I have
learned to say “Yes, Lord!”
2019, but graciously agreed maintains the office building making all kinds of mission more than I once did.
to come back to help fill the and grounds, rounds out the projects become reality by It’s been a pleasure serving
vacancy when Gwen left team. I am very grateful for budgeting conservatively and you over the past five years,
till Garrett could make the the team we have at MAUC, staying within budget. I am and I look forward to what
transition. Pennie Yesilcimen and what you see presented is very thankful for our depart- new and exciting things the
and Abisai Arreguin help keep because of all the hard work ment heads and officers, who Lord has planned going for-
the Treasury Department these people do every day to understand having to live ward. May God help us to be
working smoothly on a daily make it happen. within the funds available to faithful till He comes back to
basis, and Roy Schaecher, who Our goal is to help assist in us and are willing to make take us home.
PENNIE YESILCIMEN GARRETT HOLMES ABISAI ARREGUIN ROY SCHAECHER
is executive assistant to the vice is associate treasurer for the Mid- is information technology and is maintenance engineer for the
president for finance. America Union. accounting assistant for the Mid- Mid-America Union.
America Union.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 13CHURCH MINISTRIES
COLLABORATING FOR MINISTRY
T
he MAUC director of Church Ministries coordinates a wide variety of initiatives, events and resources
for local conferences and constituents. The areas of focus include Children’s Ministries, Pathfinders and
Adventurers, Youth and Young Adults and Adventist Community Services.
CHILDREN, ADVENTURERS AND PATHFINDERS SUMMER CAMPS
In early 2020 the Mid-America Union Conference hosted Summer camp is a top priority for local conference youth
a Children’s Ministries Expo in Omaha, Nebraska, where 113 departments, which have outstanding facilities and some of the
attendees participated in a new training format. most beautiful locations in the country. Hundreds of children
Adventurer clubs for children Pre K-4 are well established in and youth make important decisions for Christ and choose
all six conferences in the Mid-America Union and are a primary baptism every summer while discovering life-changing lessons
feeder for Pathfinder clubs. in God’s second book of nature.
Pathfinders is the Adventist camping/educational ministry Despite the challenges of the pandemic, our camps are on
primarily for grades 5-12. Fun and educational activities, along strong footing and continue to offer meaningful activities for
with the comprehensive training structure of the organization, our children and youth.
make Pathfinders the single strongest ministry in the Seventh-
day Adventist Church worldwide. Our nine camps in Mid-America are:
The annual Pathfinder Bible Experience competition challenges
Pathfinders to learn Scripture, with teams memorizing entire • Camp High Point
books of the Bible in order to earn a first place award. Each year • Flag Mountain Camp
the MAUC hosts the union level competition of PBE, with the
• Northern Lights Camp
most recent event being held virtually due to the pandemic.
In July 2017 nearly 1,500 Pathfinders gathered in the Black Hills • Camp Heritage
of South Dakota for the union-wide Pathfinder camporee with
• Camp Arrowhead
dedication services held in the amphitheater at Mt. Rushmore.
In August 2019, over 2,600 Pathfinders and staff from Mid- • Broken Arrow Ranch
America joined approximately 50,000 from around the world • Glacier View Ranch
for the International Camporee held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
We eagerly look forward to the next International Camporee • Mills Springs Ranch
scheduled to be held in Gillette, Wyoming, in 2024. • North Star Camp
Hubert Cisneros retired
from serving as Church
Ministries director in
2018 and returned to
part-time pastoring with
his wife and ministry
partner Lucy.
14 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021Roger Wade, MAUC Church Ministries director
from April 2019-April 2021, coordinated multiple
ACS efforts among conferences in metro areas.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
MAUC Academy Leadership and Bible conferences are
conducted yearly at various locations where academy students
learn skills for leadership and outreach. A union-wide Bible
conference for public high school students was hosted in the
fall of 2016.
During the pandemic, Mid-America young adults participated
in the virtual NAD Momentum Youth Sabbath School where they
preached, led discussions and provided special music.
ADVENTIST COMMUNITY SERVICES
All Mid-America ACS/DR leaders were instrumental in
mobilizing collection of items needed in impacted communities
during the past five years. When the NAD COVID-19 Food
Grant funds were disbursed, ACS leaders stepped up to assist
those who have been most impacted by the pandemic across
Mid-America. Many food pantries have collaborated with other
community organizations to distribute additional food items
during this time of crisis.
In August 2019, over
2,600 Pathfinders and
staff from Mid-America
joined approximately
50,000 from around
the world for the
International Camporee
held in Oshkosh,
Wisconsin. We eagerly
look forward to the next
International Camporee
scheduled to be held in
Gillette, Wyoming, in
2024.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 15COMMUNICATION
CONNECTING, INFORMING AND INSPIRING
W
hen Ellen White was told “You must begin to print a little paper and send it out to the people,”
the blueprint for communication in the Adventist Church was born. From that small beginning,
the vision has flourished and today the vibrant tools of communication are many for sharing the
good news of Jesus Christ and inspiring and informing His followers.
The Mid-America Union Communication Department exists to enhance awareness of Adventist
mission, messages and activities throughout our nine-state region. We serve the dedicated and skilled
communicators in our six conferences in helping local churches meet their goals for nurture and outreach
by offering a steady stream of resources, mentoring and training.
Our goals are to inspire deeper relationships with Christ, build trust through transparency and increase
member engagement here in the heartland of America.
WAYS WE SERVE KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
1. We gather and share news and stories to keep members During the past five years we have:
informed and engaged with sharing the hope of Jesus • Created an onboarding manual for new conference com-
Christ with our communities.
munication directors
2. We manage the communication aspects of a variety of proj-
ects through conducting research, developing strategies, • Created a private Facebook group for Mid-America
drafting content and engaging audiences. communicators
3. We seek to use our influence in raising awareness of the • Created a private Facebook group for OUTLOOK
union’s mission, values and priorities through all our com- bloggers
munication platforms. • Began hosting an annual lay communication advisory
4. We promote and protect the reputation of the Mid-America
• Started recognizing outstanding communicators in
Union and all our entities by focusing on strategic planning
and pre-emptive crisis communication efforts. our territory with an annual Award of Communication
5. We create and share resources that inspire best communica- Excellence
tion practices and provide training to equip communicators • Celebrated 25 years of collaboration between OUTLOOK
to become more effective in telling our Adventist story. magazine and Union College student writers
• Conducted interviews and published Mid-America’s
TOOLS WE USE 40-year anniversary story
• Researched and wrote articles for the new online
• OUTLOOK magazine (print edition) Adventist Encyclopedia
• Outlookmag.org (digital news and inspiration) • Produced a digital discipleship video series
• Produced the 300th issue of myOUTLOOK weekly
• Midamericaadventist.org (organizational website)
e-newsletter
• myOUTLOOK (weekly email news)
• Launched The Advance podcast
• Facebook
• Gathered and shared data from our territory through
• Twitter Facebook polls, digital newsletter and print surveys
• Instagram • Provided crisis communication training during the
• The Advance Podcast Adventist Student Personnel Association Convention
Sign up here:
• YouTube bit.ly/myoutlook • Hosted multiple communication training seminars
• Vimeo during the Minnesota Conference Leadership Summit
16 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021With the faithful assistance of other communication Our volunteer blogging team continues to
professionals and the great team we work with at Pacific produce unique daily content for outlookmag.org,
Press Publishing Association, we produce 10 issues per the online edition of OUTLOOK magazine that is
year of the print edition of OUTLOOK magazine that are read by over 29,000 people per month.
mailed to approximately 24,000 households.
INITIATIVES WE HAVE SUPPORTED
Hear Their Voices: Representatives from the Adventist Church collaborated with other organizations to host a community
expo called Hear Their Voices in September 2017 in Kansas City. This two-day event raised awareness and provided education
for the prevention of human sex trafficking and offered support for survivors.
Miles to Minneapolis: In June 2020 we collaborated with several of our conferences to host the live stream of the final
leg of a seven-night virtual freedom ride starting in Washington, DC, and ending in Minneapolis focusing on prayer and
community collaboration.
10 Days of Prayer: Last January we collaborated with the MAUC Church Ministries Department and our local conferences to offer a
virtual in-depth time of prayer across our territory.
What’s Your Story? Video Series: In May 2020 our MAUC president presented a statement on racism in response to the mur-
der of George Floyd in Minneapolis. As a followup, Gary Thurber interviewed several Mid-America church members to learn
more about their diverse experiences and their hopes for the future.
Pathfinder Camporees: It has been our privilege to provide communication support for both the Mid-America Union
Pathfinder Camporee and the International Pathfinder Camporee.
As the communication
team daily commits
to saying “Yes, Lord!”
we are thankful for
the opportunities to
serve the needs of our
constituents and build
up God’s kingdom
through sharing the
distinctive Adventist
message of hope and
wholeness. BRENDA DICKERSON HUGH DAVIS BARB ENGQUIST
is director of communication is associate director of is administrative assistant for the
for the Mid-America Union, communication and digital Communication Department.
OUTLOOK editor and general media manager for the Mid-
vice president of the Society of America Union.
Adventist Communicators.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 17EDUCATION
LEARNING SOMETHING BETTER
“S
omething better is the watchword of education, the law of all true living. Whatever Christ asks
us to renounce, He offers in its stead something better. . . . Bring them (the youth) in contact with
truer beauty, with loftier principles, and with nobler lives. Lead them to behold the One ‘altogether
lovely.’ When once the gaze is fixed upon Him, the life finds its center . . . to honor Christ, to become like
Him, to work for Him” (Education, p. 296).
During the past quinquen- students to be the disciples
nium students, teachers, referenced in Jesus’ Great
school boards and school Commission. This grades
constituencies have said “Yes, 1-12 curriculum has been
Lord!” to Adventist education enthusiastically adopted across
even in the midst of a world- Mid-America.
wide pandemic. We are excited Pathways 2.0: Journey to
to share what is happening Excellence through Literacy
in Adventist education in is the English Language Arts
Mid-America. curriculum for grades 1-8.
Adventist education is This is an integrated curric-
learner-focused. It enables ulum that includes reading,
learners to develop a life writing, word study, grammar,
of faith in God, and to use spelling, handwriting, speak-
their knowledge, skills and ing and listening. It builds on strategy, and Scripture con- to growing healthy, vibrant
understandings to serve God the Adventist worldview and nections are made. school communities.
and others. We believe in incorporates appropriately Our teachers and admin-
an integrated educational complex nonfiction texts that istrators are well prepared:
experience where students will engage scholars while THE NUMBERS 37% of our teachers hold a
encounter God throughout incorporating research- postgraduate degree, 68%
the day in all subjects. based skills and strategies During the past five years, hold either a Professional
that enable them to become five schools have opened in or Standard NAD Teaching
lifelong learners. Spiritual Mid-America and 10 have Certificate, and 71% of our
CURRICULUM applications are intentionally closed. Many school con- administrators hold an NAD
included in the instruction. stituencies struggle with the Administrator Certificate.
DEVELOPMENT In addition, a new biol- decision to close as they have Our teachers continue
ogy textbook was developed seen enrollment decline. Most to look for opportunities
In the past quinquennium, in partnership with Kendall plan to reopen in a year or two. to grow professionally. The
three exciting curriculums Hunt Publishing Company We are aware of at least two Mid-America Union is
have been developed and for high school students. schools planning to reopen grateful for the support that
implemented in Adventist This textbook includes this year. allowed us to take all of our
schools across North America. a biblical perspective in Enrollment in all our Mid- teachers, administrators and
First, the Bible curriculum, examining a variety of America schools declined many support staff to the
Adventist Encounter, is understandings of nature. 10%. Some of the decline is NAD Teachers’ Convention
intentional about using the It aligns with the North due to the COVID-19 pan- in Chicago. We look forward
classroom to help build a American Division biology demic. Some is due to aging to the 2023 convention in
meaningful lifelong relation- standards and is grounded communities that do not have Phoenix. Mid-America also
ship with Jesus, using the Bible in the faith-based beliefs of many school-age children. It supports elementary and sec-
as a source of truth with the the Seventh-day Adventist is difficult to pinpoint exact ondary teachers going to other
goal of making a difference Church. Inquiry learning reasons for the spikes or national conventions. Our
for eternity. It seeks to invite is a central instruction declines, but we are committed secondary associate, Gerard
18 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021Ban, continues the plan of is able to interview teacher showed great resilience. God might try in class. Learning
hosting our teachers at two candidates before superin- has demonstrated His love andis the indicator of success.
subject-specific national con- tendents from other confer- leading and we know He will Mid-America has included
ferences annually. We are also ences do. continue to in the future. our superintendents in the
very thankful for our partner- NAD training. We have begun
ship with La Sierra University training with our Curriculum
that allows teachers to get a PANDEMIC IMPACTS LOOKING FORWARD Committee who will assist us
master’s degree in administra- as we walk down this path.
tion or curriculum tuition-free When COVID-19 struck, Educational planning Each conference is also plan-
(to them). teachers quickly retooled into has not been put on hold ning training for teachers. This
During the past quinquen- a different delivery mode. Our throughout this pandemic. will not be a quick implemen-
nium, we have seen a decline teachers said, “Yes, Lord” even We anticipate exciting tation; we will take the time to
in the pool of available though they had no idea how educational practices being ensure our teachers, students
teachers. Baby boomers are they would continue to minis- implemented over the next and schools are ready.
reaching retirement age and ter to their students. Teachers five years. Our conferences, Mental health is another
nationwide we see a definite learned to use Zoom, ensured Mid-America Union, and the challenge. Learners come with
decline in the number of that each student had access North American Division have varying backgrounds and
college-age students who to technology, and generally collaborated in introducing experiences. Anxiety is one
are choosing education as within a two-week time frame standards-based learning. of the leading mental health
a career. Teachers are also were ready to meet with their The NAD developed stan- conditions facing our children.
choosing not to move, but students virtually. Additional dards in each subject area that We need to provide strategies
to continue working in their resources were sought and are based on the Adventist and assistance where feasible
school community. This has provided by the division, worldview. Standards identify to help meet these challenges.
put added pressure on our union and conferences. what learners should know We are thankful for God’s
schools and conferences When classes resumed in and be able to do, and serve as innumerable blessings and
when the need for teach- the fall of 2020, classrooms the framework for curriculum, the way He is daily leading in
ers arises. However, we were sanitized, partitions were instruction and assessment. the education of His kids in
are appreciative of Union created and social distance, In an effort to fulfill our Mid-America. We are blessed
College whose Education mask, temperature checks and charge as Adventist educators, to know that there are Spirit-
Department trains sought-af- personal hygiene practices were we are revising our grading filled men and women who
ter teacher candidates who implemented so that face-to- practices to be aligned to the have dedicated their lives to
understand multi-grade face instruction could begin. standards students must meet. bringing lifelong learners to
classrooms and are well The emotional impact was That way, grades will be a the feet of Jesus. It is the goal
versed in the Adventist cur- great, but a quality education clearer indication of what stu- of this department to see every
riculum and best practices was still provided. Students, dents have learned, not simply student excel in faith, learning
in education. Moreover, they teachers, school boards and a measure of how much work and service to honor God and
ensure that Mid-America conference personnel all they turn in or how hard they bless others.
LOUANN HOWARD GERARD BAN KRISTI GRIFFITH BARB ENGQUIST
is director of the Office of is associate director of the is registrar for the Mid-America is administrative assistant for the
Education for the Mid-America Office of Education for the Mid- Union. Office of Education.
Union. America Union.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 19MINISTERIAL
ENCOURAGING OUR PASTORS
M
uch of the work of the spirit has been among the support our pastors. For exam- One of the most memorable
Mid-America Union highest priorities, since high- ple, I speak frequently to our and moving times in our con-
ministerial director is trust relationships foster an pastors for training or devo- vention was during our open-
done out of the public eye, yet easy flow of resources, ideas tionals, and I provide leader- ing meeting when I invited
this person is highly visible to and support, all of which bet- ship coaching for pastors who all the pastors and spouses to
the ministerial directors of the ter enable conference ministe- request it. come to the platform to affix
six conferences. Much energy, rial directors to support and We plan and host our their family’s picture to the
support and encouragement care for local pastors. union-wide pastors con- cross. Bringing our families to
pours directly into the team of For most of the past quin- vention, like the one held the cross right from the start
six conference ministerial direc- quennium, Mic Thurber filled in Omaha in July of 2017. set a tone that lasted through-
tors in Mid- America: Merlin this role. In August 2021, he Focusing especially on out our time together.
Knowles, Dakota; Joseph Ikner, accepted the invitation of the strengthening the home Our bi-annual union-
Central States; Lee Rochholz, Rocky Mountain Conference and family of the pastor, we wide pastoral intern retreats
Iowa-Missouri; Virgil Covel, Executive Committee to serve brought in Mark Gungor, who bring together new-in-min-
Kansas-Nebraska; Karen Lewis, as RMC’s president. Following is famous for his “Laugh Your istry workers from around
Minnesota, (who is one of only is a report he prepared before Way to a Better Marriage” our territory to become
two women in a ministerial accepting his new position. seminars. Laughter often acquainted with their peers,
director position in North unlocks our defenses so that learn about the wider
America); and Mickey Mallory, Though most of my work important things can be church, and gain insights
Rocky Mountain. supports ministerial directors, learned, which is especially and support as they navigate
Building a cohesive team there is much I do to directly Mark’s gift. ministry that often turns out
20 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021to be quite different from the new manual, I have served
what they expected. We have as both a formal and informal
held three such retreats now. coach for ministerial directors
The MAUC Ministerial in various parts of the NAD.
Department helps coordinate
the annual theology student
interviews with the Religion YES, LORD!
Department of Union College.
Before COVID, we hosted a My last words are about the
nice dinner for the students, group of people for whom
faculty and conference leaders my heart beats most—pas-
to enable them to become per- tors. I love my work because
sonally acquainted with each I love our pastors, and I love
other before the more formal the work of pastoral min- we are able. I know the pastors serve in the Rocky Mountain
interviews took place. istry. Though rarely easy, it have missed you! Just as my Conference (see p. 43). It has
is truly rewarding. Because heart beats for pastors, I know been pure joy and an honor for
humanity’s needs are vast and their hearts beat for you. me to have been Ministerial
SERVING THE WIDER growing wider every day, the And if you haven’t done director in this great union
work of ministry is constantly so lately, please speak a word for the last 8.5 years. We have
CHURCH changing, and that requires of love and support to your a wonderful ministerial team
an unbroken connection with pastor. I know that will mean in our conferences, and I wish
Of course, some work does the Source of power. a lot to them as they continue them and the MAUC office
come into public view, such And that was before the to do their best to serve you team every blessing as they
as preaching in local churches pandemic hit. and the risen Christ. continue to serve God and you
throughout our union when When COVID started, our A final note: Since prepar- in our union.
invited—as well as for camp pastors could well have just ing this report I have received
meetings, special weekends given up, but instead they and accepted an invitation to
and training sessions for local said “Yes, Lord!” and worked
church leaders and members. even harder in the face of
And duties occasionally significant difficulty. I’ve
reach outside our union’s been amazed at how adeptly
territory. During this last pastors adapted to ministry
quinquennium I was asked under a whole new reality
by the NAD Ministerial that no one saw coming. So
Department to take the lead I want to thank and affirm
in creating a new manual for them for the extra hours
ministerial directors across they have worked to stay
North America. I chaired connected with you, pro-
its development committee vide online services, and for
and served as its editor and remaining faithful in their
principal writer. The project service for Jesus.
was completed as an online Finally, I hope each of
resource that can be easily us will say “Yes, Lord!” and MIC THURBER PAULA CORREA
updated as new practices commit to faithfully gather as is outgoing director of the is incoming administrative
emerge. In addition to writing the body of Christ whenever Ministerial Department for the assistant for the Ministerial
Mid-America Union. Department.
OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021 21MULTI-LANGUAGE/HISPANIC MINISTRIES
EMPOWERING LOCAL LEADERS
G
od has blessed us We are currently focusing churches and the conferences CHALLENGES AND
richly during these on the GPS for LIFE program and the union and to respond
past five years. We that we hope will mobilize to the concerns of the field. GIFTS
thank our Hispanic congre- approximately 350 small Financially, the Lord has
gations, members, leaders groups in evangelism. Not blessed us abundantly. The Many Hispanic youth do
and pastors for what they’ve even the coronavirus could economic crises of recent not have the opportunity to
contributed to our conference stop the small group minis- years have not held back the attend Adventist academies
during that time. try since many of them kept generosity of our members. and relate to other Adventists
Our growth has been meeting via Zoom, not losing We recognize that, even in their age. To help them
consistent for the past few their purpose. difficult circumstances and connect with other Adventist
years and we’re happy to We continue to train our insecurity, our members have youth, our department orga-
report that by the grace of God members in evangelism, min- shown fidelity to God and nizes and promotes an annual
our Hispanic membership ister to elders and spouses His work. Hispanic Youth Congress. It
in the Mid-America Union and strengthen lay leadership. Hispanic members have has been very popular among
Conference now exceeds 8,500. Almost every conference in a passion for evangelism. attendees, and as leaders we
Our department now Mid-America, in collabora- Every Hispanic church hosted are learning to minister to the
oversees 100 churches, com- tion with Andrews University, an average of two reaping second and third generations
panies and groups. All these offered a training school for series per year. For Hispanic of Hispanic youth.
congregations are led by a lay members who desire to churches, evangelism is not We continue to focus stra-
fervent team of 37 pastors who go deeper in Bible knowledge an event; it’s a lifestyle. For tegically on the areas where
work untiringly and faithfully and become better equipped the next five years we are our presence is lacking, espe-
where God has placed them to do God’s mission in their putting together a program to cially in large cities. We hope
to enlarge His kingdom and territory. These initiatives train newly baptized mem- we can have more Adventist
to make a difference in their have allowed us to have a bers to share the gospel with presence in large cities where
communities. better interrelation between their relatives and friends. the immigrant population is
22 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG SEPT 2021You can also read
