Southern Tidings

07/24/2024

Some of the leaders from the Lake Worth, Fla., Spanish Church came up with the idea of starting “Free Soccer Academy” to help families in the community. Soccer is a very common sport that is growing in this country right now. Many families and children are looking for academies where they can start learning the basics.

Lake Worth Spanish Church Offers Soccer Academy for Community Children Rolando Morgado Every Monday night, the church patio becomes the center of evangelism to reach children and families, just like Jesus did, spending time with people and helping with their needs. Children enjoy learning at Lake Wo...

07/22/2024

Three generations from the Ridgetop, Tenn., Church traveled together on a short-term mission trip to Kenya. Brenda Dempsey; her daughter, Cassandra Cassidy; and her granddaughter, Cyra Cassidy, joined with 52 other volunteers, including students from Madison Academy in Madison, Tenn., to participate in a Maranatha project in Kajiado, Kenya.

Three Generations from Ridgetop Church Embark on Mission Trip to Kenya Paola Mora Zepeda Cassandra Cassidy (left), Cyra Cassidy, and Brenda Dempsey pose together for a photo. Earlier this year, the family trio joined Maranatha for a mission trip to Kenya. Cyra Cassidy (left), Brenda Demsey (second f...

07/20/2024

An early childhood teacher at Ridgetop Elementary in Ridgetop, Tenn., shares her personal experiences and reflections on the importance of nature immersion for young children.

As a child I played outside all the time, exploring God’s beautiful world, experiencing unstructured free play, and developing a sense of wonder about the natural world. Nature became a place of calmness during my childhood. I realized that being immersed in nature is something I want other children to cherish and enjoy.

Over the past five years as an early childhood teacher in Ridgetop, I have launched the initiative to immerse my students in nature. We spend every Tuesday and Thursday morning outside. Students are encouraged to navigate uneven terrains, jump in puddles, climb trees, balance on hand-made see-saws, dig in the dirt, carry large objects, observe creepy crawlies, build shelters, and much more.

Being outside allows children to be children again. Time spent in nature should not be structured. My students are allowed to explore nature freely with a set of rules that are chosen specifically to keep them from harm. Nature Immersion is student-led, which grants the students the opportunity to be themselves, making them feel comfortable, and maximizing their social, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual development.

Throughout the year, my students develop a sense of risk-taking, physical endurance, and curiosity about the world around them. They participate in problem-solving, critical thinking, team building, negotiating, cooperation, empathy, and compassion. I am blessed to have a Conference and school board that allows me to immerse my students in nature, and give them a child-led educational experience in God’s great, big, beautiful world.

Psalm 8:3-4 states, “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”

Nature is full of wonder. My students are blessed with the same opportunities I had growing up, and it’s a delight to watch them explore God’s beautiful handiwork.

07/20/2024

Peter Kulakov, a well-respected and accomplished pastor and evangelist, is the newly named assistant to the president and evangelism coordinator.

“I am excited about the increased emphasis on evangelism that Peter will provide to churches and schools across the Conference,” says Gary Rustad, Georgia-Cumberland Conference president.

This new position will provide greater coordination and assistance to Conference ministries, including publishing, Leads Bible study follow-ups, assistance to the Education Department and schools with their evangelism plans, and support of churches as they prepare for reaping and evangelistic events. In addition, Kulakov will serve as a liaison with It Is Written, Southern’s School of Religion, and the SALT evangelism program.

Read more about Peter: https://www.southerntidings.com/news/kulakov-becomes-conferences-first-evangelism-coordinator/

07/18/2024

"Hundreds of basketball fans received free health screenings offered by Florida Hospital [now AdventHealth] during the Orlando Magic game March 13 [1994]. Seven booths were set up throughout the Orland arena concourse where a team of volunteers and health professionals measured fans' blood pressure, flexibility, and risk for heart disease. Florida Hospital also co-sponsored an exercise program during halftime." - Southern Tidings July 1994 Issue

07/16/2024

Three hundred children and their parents enjoyed learning and seeing emergency response vehicles, learning about beekeeping, and playing in bouncy houses at the 10th annual “Kids’ Fun Day.” The event hosted by the Bristol, Tenn., Adventurer and Pathfinder Clubs took place at the Sugar Hollow Park in neighboring Bristol, Va.

Pathfinders Adventurers Host “Kids” Fun Day Attendees to revival meetings held in Jasper, Tenn., were encouraged to wear diverse cultural attire, representing the spreading of the Gospel to the whole world. Countries represented included Africa, China, Egypt, Figi, India, Nepal, St. Vincent, and...

07/15/2024

The Perrine Church in Miami, Fla., conducted a two-week evangelistic series under the direction of Eddly B. Benoit, D.Min., pastor, along with Paul Castell, elder and personal ministries director, and the members.

Perrine Church Holds “Grace Encounter” Evangelistic Series Millicent Taylor Baptized members stand with Eddly Benoit (left), D.Min., pastor of Perrine Church in Miami, Fla. Newly baptized members stand with Eddly Benoit (right), D.Min. Donald Francis, guest evangelist The Perrine Church in Miami...

07/13/2024

Gregg Girard spent two years confined to a wheelchair following a stroke in 2014. Then one day, he showed up at Hope Clinic.

“Up until then, all my physical therapy and occupational therapy revolved around teaching me how to get in and out of my wheelchair,” said Girard. “Nobody would teach me how to walk. When I started at Hope Clinic, I was in a wheelchair and they asked me, ‘Why are you in a wheelchair?’ It was the first time in the therapy world that someone gave me that hope, that permission.”

Girard was a successful property manager from Orlando, Fla., living in London 10 years ago. He was 41, physically fit, and living well. Briefly back in the U.S. to obtain a visa, he ended up experiencing a basal ganglia hemorrhage, one of the most severe strokes, caused by uncontrolled hypertension. When he didn’t show up at a party, his friends looked for him and found him on the floor of his home.

He spent the next month in a medically induced coma, following surgery to remove the hematoma, the source of the bleeding in his brain, and to place a shunt to drain fluid. He woke up in the hospital 40 days later with no recollection, and little understanding of how intense a brain bleed he had. He spent four months recovering in the hospital, was discharged to his home in a wheelchair with orders for physical and occupational therapy, and he had his parents move into his Orlando home.

“I was never told I wouldn’t walk again. They told my parents, but they never told me because they didn’t want to discourage me,” said Girard

Read the full story here: https://www.southerntidings.com/news/long-term-occupational-therapy-helps-low-income-patients-ahu-study-finds/

07/13/2024

The Southern Tidings is happy to announce we will have limited-edition Southern Tidings trading pins. That’s right! This year we have not one, but eight uniquely designed pins!

These limited-edition pins each feature a Pathfinder on the front earning a Pathfinder honor. The pins open to reveal which honor the Pathfinder is earning. Each pin represents a different state within the Southern Union territory. Pathfinders will want to be sure to add these pins to their collection.

To qualify for a pin, Pathfinders must participate in a pin challenge. The challenges will include learning about communication, participating in videos, writing stories for publication, and more. The more challenges a Pathfinder participates in, the more pins they can get toward completing a full set! Be sure to keep up to date on the latest pin and International Pathfinder Camporee news by following our Instagram: .

07/11/2024

"Jeannie Barnes, Kathy Guice, Pamela Scoggins, and Erin Levi were among the students of the Chattanooga, Tennessee, Junior Academy who participated in the Jump for Heart, March, 1984, by jumping rope for two hours. The school raised more than $1,000 for the American Heart Association. Students were featured in the Chattanooga News-Free Press and on WDEF-TV's 'Morning Show.' Students were able to share the good news about fitness, encourage good exercise habits, and demonstrate their acquired jumping skills. One student was presented with a Walkman radio for raising the largest single amount by the school, $367. Robin Ja'Anini was featured in the local news for his special efforts." - Southern Tidings July 1984 Issue

07/11/2024

Students from across the South Atlantic Conference gathered to showcase their skills, creativity, and intellect at the recent Festival Expo held at River Oaks Campground in Orangeburg, S.C. Kim Gaiter, South Atlantic vice president for education, and her team coordinated the event which was a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of talent within South Atlantic’s school community. From spellbinding spelling bees to awe-inspiring art exhibitions, exhilarating science and robotics competitions to captivating oratorical contests, the Festival Expo celebrated academic excellence and creative expression.

Education Department Holds Annual Festival Expo Sharlene Thomas Pictured are principals and students who won first, second, and third place in the various categories. Students from across the South Atlantic Conference gathered to showcase their skills, creativity, and intellect at the recent Festiva...

07/09/2024

AdventHealth’s executive clinical director of quality and safety shares some of the steps leading to the system’s recognition as a national leader in health care.

Service Standards Light the Way on Patient Safety Journey William Scharf, M.D. AdventHealth Leapfrog Emerald Award trophy AdventHealth Service standards AdventHealth AdventHealth’s executive clinical director of quality and safety shares some of the steps leading to the system’s recognition as a...

07/08/2024

Gardening is a healthy way to feed the mind, body, and soul of community residents and church members. Bethel Church members in Orlando, Fla., under the leadership of Dwight Gayle, pastor, dedicated their community garden to the Lord on January 13, 2024. This was a joyous occasion filled with excitement of church members and community residents.

Church, Community Garden Healthy for Mind, Body, Soul Carol L. Smith Anthony Walcott (left), elder, who created and maintains Bethel Church garden, is pictured with Dwight Gayle, pastor. A partial view of Bethel Church garden Gardening is a healthy way to feed the mind, body, and soul of community r...

07/06/2024

Forest Lake Academy students and staff, members and staff from local churches, and approximately 600 volunteers from the community came together to bring the story of Jesus to life on Easter Sabbath. “The Risen Experience,” a two-hour outdoor interactive experience, was hosted on the campuses of Forest Lake Church and Forest Lake Academy in Apopka, Florida.

This free event ministered to many people and provided accessible parking and mobility assistance for all guests. There was a specific focus on outreach throughout the event, including opportunities to meet with cast members and church volunteers.

The two-mile walk was designed to allow attendees to experience first-century A.D. as well as the final days of Christ on Earth prior to His resurrection. The event kicked off inside the Forest Lake Church sanctuary with an orientation/overview, live music, and a greeting from Mary Magdalene with an invitation to follow her to meet Jesus in Jerusalem.

Read more about this event here: https://www.southerntidings.com/fla/fla-feature/jesus-is-risen/

07/06/2024

A talented art teacher uses her social media platform to inspire and spread love. An entrepreneur’s multi-million dollar company provides tens of thousands of electronic devices to youth during the pandemic. A barber does more than transform hair, he transforms lives.

As Seventh-day Adventists, we believe that a good Christian steward is someone who understands that God is the creator and owner of everything, but has empowered us as managers of the blessings He gives us. This includes time, opportunities, abilities, possessions, and the blessings of the Earth and its resources.

Read about several individuals — including the teacher, businessman, and barber — who epitomize stewardship in the broadest sense by excelling in the areas of talent, transformation, time, trust, and treasure.

https://www.southerntidings.com/suc/stewardship-the-spectrum-of-giving/

07/05/2024

"Florida Conference President Henry J. Carubba goes for a trial run in the Amish buggy that was donated to Camp Kulaqua. The buggy promises to be a source of enjoyment during Family and Adventure Camps slated for July and August. At the reigns is David Snow. Photo by Norman Middag." - Southern Tidings July 1974 Issue

07/04/2024

Happy Independence Day! ✨🇺🇸

On this 4th of July, we are reminded of the sacrifices made for our country's liberty and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for our eternal freedom. As we enjoy time with family and friends, fireworks, and food, let's take a moment to thank God for the blessings of freedom, both as Americans and as believers.

May we use our freedoms to love, serve, and uplift one another, showing the love of Christ in all we do. 🇺🇸✨

07/04/2024

The Women’s Ministries Department at New Hope Church in Ellenwood, Ga., held its annual Spring Prayer Breakfast with the theme, “Lord, Teach Us to Pray.” The guest speaker was Nadine Collins, Ph.D., who is an international speaker, women’s leadership and empowerment coach, prayer counselor, and author.

New Hope Church Holds Spring Prayer Breakfast Pictured are Nadine Collins, Ph.D. (third from right), with some of the women who attended the prayer breakfast. The Women’s Ministries Department at New Hope Church in Ellenwood, Ga., held its annual Spring Prayer Breakfast with the theme, “Lord, Te...

07/01/2024

The latest issue of the Southern Tidings is out! The cover feature highlights five individuals who showcase what being a good steward is all about. Within, there is also a scavenger hunt to find the Southern Tidings’ limited edition 2024 International Pathfinder Camporee pins. If you find the pins, let us know! Check out the full issue on our website to find inspiration and pins 😉

https://www.southerntidings.com/july24-issuu/

06/29/2024

The New Gainesville, Ga., Church celebrated with their Hospitality and Youth Ministries departments for receiving two grants totaling $15,300.

Under the leadership of Winovia Lewis, Hospitality Department leader, the department received a $10,000 grant to expand their ministries in the community by offering the underserved, seniors, and sick and shut-in individuals hot meals.

The Youth Department, under the direction of Tyler John, received a $5,300 grant to start a youth tutoring program. Both grants were awarded through a partnership with Versacare, an independent foundation committed to furthering the Kingdom of God and restoring His image to those in need.

New Gainesville Church seeks to bring people toward Christ by ministering to their needs, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and their distinct message. John R. Sconiers II, D.Min., pastor of New Gainesville, and the members are thankful to God for those who were instrumental in securing the grants. The funds will allow them to show God’s love and further His ministry in the Gainesville community and surrounding areas.

06/28/2024

God orchestrated the entire process for this year’s scuba course, bringing different people together to create a stronger program,” said Judy Sloan, Ph.D., dean of the School of Health and Kinesiology at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tenn.

Bo Smith, ’88 alum and new instructor for the class, remembers the class being offered when he was a student more than 35 years ago. As soon as he heard that the adjunct position was open, he expressed interest in teaching. While Smith works full-time in the IT field, he has volunteered as a scuba diver at Chattanooga’s downtown Tennessee Aquarium for 17 years and holds a number of professional certifications.

Smith quickly finalized his Dive Master and Instructor certifications and was hired soon after. A vital partner in his certification process was Malu Hammans, who owns and operates Choo Choo Diving & Aquatic Center in Chattanooga, less than 10 miles from the University’s campus. Hammans helped him streamline the process of gaining the necessary credentials, and also remained involved once Smith’s first class was up and running.

“The support from Choo Choo Diving — prioritizing my certifications and providing air fills and top-notch customer assistance to the University — has been crucial to our program’s continued success. At every point that team has stepped up for Southern,” said Smith. Early in the course, he took the students on a field trip to the center so they could experience the exceptional service firsthand. Gear was specially packaged and offered at a reduced rate to help make basic equipment requirements for the class affordable.

One hurdle remained before the class could begin. “Southern’s scuba equipment was quite dated, meaning replacement parts would be nearly impossible to find, and some gear needed to be replaced before the class could start,” said Smith. Searching for a solution, he spent time in prayer and asked God to provide a path forward.

Within days, an anonymous donor with no connection to Smith offered a $10,000 gift specifically for the University’s scuba program. It was used to buy 10 new sets of scuba gear. “Those funds were the solution we needed,” said Smith.

Read more here: https://www.southerntidings.com/news/generosity-refreshes-scuba-program/

06/27/2024

"Mount Pisgah Academy, which opened its doors in 1914, held its Centennial Celebration during Homecoming Weekend, April 18-19 [2014]. A record number of nearly 1,000 guests were in attendance." - Southern Tidings June 2014 Issue

06/25/2024

In the bustling streets of the Winter Garden community, members of the Winter Garden, Fla., Church embarked on a mission to share their faith through evangelism. By engaging in an evangelistic community walk, they distributed religious literature, interacted with the community, and shared the love of Jesus.

The effort began with C. D. Lee, pastor of Winter Garden Church, emphasizing to the congregation the importance of evangelism in the community. “The Church must be a beacon of light in the local community,” said Lee.

Read the full story here:

Evangelism Brings Community Connection at Winter Garden Church Staff Writer A community member welcomed literature evangelists.   Seniors as well as youth distributed literature to the community.   In the bustling streets of the Winter Garden community, members of the Winter Garden, Fla., Church e...

06/22/2024

The South Central Conference is pleased to announce the appointment of David Lee, pastor, as the new associate ministerial director. He is currently serving as the senior pastor of the Madison Mission Church in Huntsville, Ala. Lee brings a wealth of experience and passion to his new role.

With a solid background in ministry, Lee possesses the leadership skills and dedication necessary to effectively serve in this key position. Throughout his career, he has exemplified a deep commitment to the spiritual growth and well- being of congregations under his care.

In his new position, Lee will have a multifaceted role, involving various responsibilities that contribute to the overall mission and vision of South Central Conference. He will work closely with other church leaders and departments to support ministers and churches within the Conference.

Learn more about Lee here: https://www.southerntidings.com/news/david-lee-appointed-associate-ministerial-director/

06/22/2024

Forest Lake Education Center (FLEC), a pre-K to grade 8 school in Longwood, Fla., has launched a transformative new elective aimed at nurturing spiritual leadership among middle school students. Led by Jonathan Martin, director for spiritual enrichment, this initiative reflects the school’s mission to foster a love for God and service to others.

Jeff Foote, FLEC principal, expresses enthusiasm: “The ‘Spiritual Leadership’ elective is introducing thoughtful, spiritual programs to FLEC, and I am thrilled with the response from students and parents.”

Debuting in the 2023–2024 academic year, the elective has revolutionized campus ministry at FLEC. Open to grades 6-8, it attracted nearly 100 applicants. Eighth-grader Joselyn Aguilar shares her motivation: “I joined this elective because I wanted to be used by God to bring others to Jesus.” Ultimately, 32 students were selected for their eagerness for spiritual growth and leadership.

Throughout the year, participants embarked on a journey of self-discovery, identifying their spiritual gifts and refining their leadership skills. “I’ve realized that middle schoolers can accomplish great things in God’s name,” remarks eighth-grader London Valencia Walker.

Read the full story on our website: https://www.southerntidings.com/news/forest-lake-education-centers-innovative-elective-empowers-spiritual-leaders/

06/20/2024

"For several years now, schools in Carolina have packed up and gone to camp. Nosoca Pines Ranch, the Conference-owned youth camp, was alive with fifth through eighth grade students four days this past April [1994]. ... The twenty-one foot python was the main, and very long attraction. Only after talking to the students about how friendly and valuable to the ecology many of the nonpoisonous snakes are would the students consider touching them." - Southern Tidings June 1994 Issue

06/19/2024

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a significant day in American history marking the end of slavery. As Christians, we celebrate this day with hearts full of gratitude and reflection, acknowledging God's hand in the pursuit of justice and liberation.

"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17

06/18/2024

Leyla Marton, a student at Madison Academy, in Madison, Tenn., desired to have a place where high school students, regardless of which school or church they attended, could come together to worship and make connections. She was inspired by her summers at Indian Creek Camp (ICC), where teens of all backgrounds bonded over shared experiences.

“I was talking to my friends, and I realized that they also shared that desire to meet more people who shared their faith,” said Marton. “I go to a small school, so we tend to stick to our small group — but we wanted something where we could explore our talents and make new connections.”

So, Marton brought this idea to her father, Edward Marton, who serves as the youth director for the Kentucky- Tennessee Conference. He was thrilled to support the initiative, and on February 2, 2024, Fusion welcomed over 50 high school students to their first meeting.

Read the whole story here:

Student-led Ministry Creates Community Beyond School, Church Walls pAOLA MORA ZEPEDA John Armstrong, from Highland Academy, plays the drums for Fusion’s Vespers program. Fusion is a student-led ministry aimed to welcome high school students of all backgrounds. Xander Ordinola Students enjoy Fusion...

06/16/2024

Today, we honor the incredible men who reflect the steadfast love of our Heavenly Father. Your strength, wisdom, and faithfulness inspire us every day.

Proverbs 20:7 tells us, "The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him." Your commitment to living a godly life sets a powerful example, guiding your family with love and integrity.

Happy Father's Day!