When I met my husband, his parents were on the brink of financial ruin. His mother’s fragile health … led to deep indebtedness, and in spite of generous help from family and the Church … declared bankruptcy.

This was a terrible, humiliating time for them – they … continued to pay a faithful tithe, [but ] no windows opened.

I have heard many windows of heaven tithing stories, and they are real and true, but I have often missed the rest of Malachi …

14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?
15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.
16 Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name.
17 And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

 “It is vain to serve God,” is something that is easy to say when the correspondence of God’s blessings to my obedience does not match what I think it should …  There are a lot of dishonest people out there who seem to be doing pretty well for themselves in spite of their behavior. They might be happy, delivered from the bad economy, set up in a mansion, and they have not paid tithing or kept the commandments.

But the next verses say it all … “A book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them….”

The ultimate blessings of tithing are not of this life or this world, but are eternal. Those who pay shall be the Lord’s in the day when he makes up his jewels… It’s hard to be living in difficult economic times and hear the miraculous tithing stories and want one, without getting it. [However] my in-laws’ financial situation forced them to move in with us within a couple of years of our marriage. Having them in my home has been a gift for my family. I didn’t know them well, but we became dear friends. When my mother-in-law died two years after they moved in I was so grateful for the time we had shared together. I would never have gotten to know her and love her as well if their financial circumstances had not forced them to live with me …  Paying tithing was not insulation from calamity. What I believe it did, though, is help all things, even bankruptcy, work together for good.

I love the basket-of-food tithing stories; they make me misty-eyed every time. [But] even more inspiring, though, are the stories of the noble people who continue to pay it in spite of job loss and health expenses and the economy… Sometimes the only immediate blessing of paying tithing is to stand at peace in the presence of God. It is not easy, but it is enough.

By: M., Emily. A Different Tithing Story. 2010. Segullah. 17 May 2010 <segullah.org/daily-special/a-different-tithing-story>.

Heritage Singers, the original Rose City Singers from Portland, Ore.,  packed the hall last night, with, not one — but two concerts in concurrence with the 2010 GC Session, in the Georgia World Congress Center’s Sidney Marcus Auditorium, Friday, July 2.

The 40-year anniversary celebration was marked by Max Mace, Heritage founder and Northwest native, stepping onto the stage, greeting a packed house with his trademark upbeat smile, paying tribute to longstanding supporters, and introducing nine other singers, their children and spouses to a full house.

The concert was a blend of old and new music including Heritage’s longest running all-time favorite “Jesus is the Lighthouse” and other favorites: “Daystar,” and “God’s Wonderful People”.

Dave Bell, Walla Walla, Wash., native and longest-running Heritage Singer (besides Mace family members) for over 23 years, soloed last night in “This Old House,” and Becki Trueblood-Craig, Caldwell, Idaho, native, and Heritage vocalist, also soloed. Bell told a laughing audience “It didn’t take me long to drop all my Walla Walla College classes and head to the Heritage Singers when they called.”  Bell promised his family he would only be in the group a short stay, and then go back to “real life.”

“Who knew we’d be here at the GC Session in Atlanta 40 years later?” said Mace to the GLEANER, who went back-stage later, for a Heritage exclusive.

In the interview, Mace gave thanks to the North Pacific Union Conference and Northwest members who supported Heritage and said:

“Since those humble beginnings, Heritage has sung in over 60 countries, traveled by boat, airplane, been on countless mission trips ….  And the ministry all started in Portland, Ore.,

“Cecil Coffey, GLEANER editor at the time, and Jerry Brass, NPUC youth leader, gave us our strongest support,” said Mace. “Without the Northwest support we wouldn’t be here. Those two gentlemen said ‘Max, if the Lord is in this, it will not fail.’ So we took a step of faith; we bought a bus; and hit the road.”

Concurrent with GC Session, Heritage unveiled a new book commemorating their 40-year history and highlighted their new endeavor, Espanol Heritage. Daughter Val Mace-Mapa, spoke to GLEANER about growing up in Portland, Ore., and attending Portland Adventist Academy. Co-founder, Lucy Mace received a flower tribute. And son Greg Mace was thanked for his involvement with Heritage sound systems.

Max jokingly ended the concert and interview by saying he wishes for “Only another 40 years of singing …”

Cindy Chamberlin, Gleaner managing editor, conducted this interview, and is pictured above with Lucy Mace, Heritage co-founder.

The 59th General Conference Session has not been without excitement, drama and surprises.

With the new GC President elected, both incumbents for the GC and the NAD have been voted out of office. It was predictable, but many would not go on record until the final votes were taken.

The question of the week many are asking is “Who is Dan Jackson, the new NAD president, and where did he come from?”

The message from this session was one of change:

• Change for a new direction for the GC.
• Change for a new direction for the NAD.
• Change for more recognition for women in ministry (ordination of deaconesses).
• Change for more participation for the youth and young adults in the church.

One item that got a resounding NO vote was the one on recognizing the rights for consenting adults to marry with the underline message of sanctioning homosexual marriage.

This was a good session even with the long process of updating the Church Manual.The SDA Church is still God’s remnant church, and the passion of its members to defend the faith and press forward with its mission is without question.

Alphonso McCarthy is the NPUC vice president for regional affairs and writes from the GC Session in Atlanta, Ga.

Yesterday, I came face to face with Dan Serns, NPUC ministerial director, who has just been called to the Texas Conference, but who I know from my time living in the Northwest. I smiled and he said, “I know you.“  

I said, “Yes, I’m from Oregon. I’m in Oklahoma now, and so glad to be able to be here. You baptized my granddaughter.”

He said, “What was her name?”

I answered, “Eden Moyer.”

He responded, “Oh, yes, I remember her, a beautiful young lady.” 

“Yes, a beautiful young lady,” I answered, “but, she really needs our prayers right now.” 

He told me to tell her he was praying for her next time I was in contact with her. Then he said, “Let’s pray for her right now.” And we did. I went on my way rejoicing that this busy man wasn’t too busy to stop and pray with me for my granddaughter — what a blessing!

I believe this is the spirit pervading this whole campus. Everywhere, people are taking time to pray. In the prayer room, at the picnic tables, in the halls, and God is blessing. I praise Him for the new things He’s teaching me. This morning, I greeted the lady who sat beside me on the train. I asked if she was going to work, and she said, “Yes, and I’m late!”

We spoke briefly, then she started texting. When she took a break we exchanged names. She asked where I was going and I told her. Then I told her I would be praying for her today. I said, “I’m praying God will grant you peace so you can do your work efficiently and well, in His grace and strength.”

She said, “Oh, yes, that is what I need.” Then she was back to texting. We wished each other well as we parted.

A God appointed moment I think — both times. I’m sure there are many such moments happening all over this campus. Praise God!

Gloria Treanton, Northwest member, is doing mission work in Oklahoma, and writing from the 2010 GC Session in Atlanta.

“Proclaiming God’s Grace, with Love” is the theme of this General Conference Session Women’s Meetings and each presentation has been so inspiring!  This morning’s speaker, Joy Gashaua, is from the East-central African Division where she leads as Women and Children’s Ministries director.  Her message, “Proclaiming God’s Grace with Love through Community Involvement” called women to use their God given gifts to make a difference, even when they may not “feel like it!”  She likened us to a hand-print, talented and prepared to be ministers in our own individual and incredibly unique way.  So often we suppose we must be like others, and think we are failures if our ministry isn’t as successful.  But, God is calling each of us to use our own personality and life-experience to be a blessing.  He has us in the palm of His hand and knows our weaknesses and struggles.  He has been tempted in all ways as we have and knows the way to overcome… Joy says, trust Him, forgetting the battle with self and reach out to someone in need.  We will experience a joy and a peace that quenches our own soul’s need.  

Joy shared some of her personal journey of abuse and pain and said, her way of escape was in working for Jesus.  When the enemy comes in like a flood, Jesus has always been there!  She admits it was when she realized her faith wasn’t about her heritage that her conviction became real for her.  It’s her walk with God that made the difference, not her father’s.  She challenged each of us, to think about why we are here?  What is our motivation?  Are we drawn to Jesus and excited to share the gospel or, are we simply carrying out our tradition?  Is it because someone expects us to be or we feel we must be with God’s people – or do we serve Jesus, excited about our belief in the “good news!”?  This is an excellent thought to ponder and I believe it’s the crux of the success of our evangelism. If we are “on-fire” with a love for God, He will make us successful in our efforts to serve.  The call, “get to know ME!” that’s the bottom-line and it’s the way, the peace, and the truth! 

Cheri Gatton, Idaho, women’s ministries director, writes from the NAD women’s ministries Exhibit Hall booth at the General Conference Session in Atlanta.

On my first day at the General Conference session, I ate lunch with a couple from Iceland.  The second, it was with a couple from Holland. I have talked to delegates from Africa, Korea, Germany, Bermuda, and Canada. 

I used to think of Adventism in terms of North America. Seeing that a third of our members are from Africa is eye opening. With a church this diverse it is vital to get together and listen to each other.

We discussed one Church Manual issue regarding business meetings. Some areas felt they needed four meetings a year.  One delegate pointed out that in his area the people had to walk a great distance. Others said the one business meeting a year wasn’t well attended already.  We listened to each other and ended up leaving room for flexibility. I saw democracy in action when one delegate sent a list of eight departmental nominations back to the nominating committee. 

I felt grateful when I heard our former President Paulsen’s report for the humble, Christ-like man he is. As I listened to the reports from the world divisions I wished we could be more open about the challenges we face. 

It is good to celebrate blessings and victories. But it is when we see the challenges are too big for us that we are driven to pray and depend on Jesus.

Bill Roberts is Auburn Adventist Academy Church senior pastor and a NPUC delegate at the GC Session.

I had the privilege of taking a tour of CNN’s headquarters this week.  The Cable News Network is located across the street from the Georgia Dome, just minutes away from the Adventist Health Care exhibit booth. 

By the time my 55 minute guided walking tour came to an end, I had developed a friendship with Julie, the tour guide.  She had patiently answered many of my questions regarding the global news organization.  I was thrilled to have the opportunity to watch some of the best newscasters behind the anchor desk and even more intrigued by the process CNN used to gather and analysis their stories.

As we headed down the last flight of stairs in the enormous building, Julie asked me where I was from and what brought me to Atlanta.  As I began telling her of my involvement at the General Conference this week she exclaimed, “Oh, I was born at an Adventist hospital in Maryland.”  “I had no idea that there were other Adventist hospitals in the country.”

I just happened to have had one of the pocket sized Z-cards with me like the ones we’ve been distributing at our booth this week and handed it to her.  It gave me the perfect chance to explain that we represent more than 70 Seventh-day Adventist hospitals, as well as hundreds of urgent-care centers, home-health agencies, long-term care facilities, and hospices throughout the United States. She was shocked to hear that we were so large.  I told her that each hospital is unique in meeting community needs yet we are all united in one mission – extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Julie is a journalism graduate who has a passion for food, travel and skiing.  She hopes to make it to Portland next year and ski Mt. Hood. It will be her first time in the Northwest.  I told her that she’ll see the Adventist Health Medical Group Clinic in the town of Welches at the base of Mt. Hood on the way to the slopes.  She asked me for tips on good restaurants in Portland. I shared a few and concluded by telling her that if she wanted a fabulous meal made by Oregon’s 2009 award winning chef she should check out Adventist Medical Center’s Garden Café and taste the food of Chef Iverson!

It was a newsworthy day at CNN.  We shared the mission of Adventist Health with the world leader in news!

Judy Leach writes this blog from the Adventist Healthcare booth at the Georgia World Congress Center. She is the marketing and communication director for Adventist Health in Portland, Oregon

Ramón Canals, NPUC vice president for Hispanic ministries and interim director for ministries and global mission, taught a class a few days prior to session at Southern Adventist University. The class dealt primarily with planting pastors in metro areas, reaching people, understanding immerging cultures and integrating newcomers.  Canals says “This is my fourth GC and I look forward to coming here—it is the most exciting experience in my life as an Adventist. I see it as a prelude of what is going to be happening in Heaven when we meet people from all over the world. “I am trying to meet as many people from other countries and ask them just one question ‘what are you doing to meet other people in your country?’” says Canals.

Dorita Tessier, Walla Walla University director of leadership and giving, says, “It’s really neat to be at the GC. My dad and grandfather were pastors and always went. However my father was on a preacher’s salary and could not afford to take the family. So coming to GC Session is a dream. I always wanted to attend, so I requested the duty. Once here, you realize how large your church is -bigger than your home church.”

Alphonso McCarthy, NPUC vice president for regional affairs, says “It’s exciting to be at the GC Session where decisions are made that affect the World Church in growth. Areas where we once sent missionaries, are growing in themselves into divisions, unions etc… The work is growing because of the vision we have had as a World Church.”

John Loor Jr., Montana Conference president, says, “As I sit on the floor as a delegate to the 59^th General Conference session, I’m impressed with two thoughts. First, what a privilege has been given to me to be one of 2,400 delegates that represent the   million Seventh-day Adventists around the world.  Also, what an honor it is to represent the NPUC and the Montana Conference. I don’t take this representation lightly and I thank God for this opportunity. Secondly, when I look at the Georgia Dome and see it filled with the Adventists from all over the world. I can only say ‘what has God wrought?’ I wish every one of our members in the NPUC could have the experience of visiting a General Conference Session. It will strengthen your life by seeing how God uses unity and diversity to bring about His will.”

Max Torkelsen, NPUC president, says, “As you stand in the midst of tens of thousands of Seventh-day Adventists from all parts of the world you cannot escape the realization that we are part of a miracle. This is truly the remnant church. Under the power of the Holy Spirit, we are the united family of God. Although it costs a significant amount of resources to hold the GC Session, it is an important part of maintaining the unity of the world church and keeping us all focused on our mission task.”

“It is exciting to watch first-hand evidence of Holy Spirit guidance in the business of the church. The changes in the administration of the General Conference bring opportunity for a renewed commitment to the Gospel Commission and new energy to our preparation for Jesus’ soon return.”

–Max Torkelsen II, NPUC president

“I sensed God’s leading in the nomination and election of our new General Conference leadership. I know him to be a humble, consecrated man of God who is passionate about the mission of the church.”

–Robert Folkenberg Jr., Upper Columbia Conference

“The world church has made a statement about direction and the Adventist mission to the world. I accept the work of committees when committees seek the will of God and ask for His presence through prayer as they conduct their business.”

–Stephen L. McPherson, Idaho Conference president

“I appreciate our process in electing leadership. God is in control and He has lead in the process of selecting elder Wilson, elder Ng and Elder Lemon. We will pray God will guide this new team.”

–John Loor Jr., Montana Conference president

“He is a great Christian man. He is the one to head us into the near future and will need our prayers and support.”

–Pattric Parris, Northwest resident and NPUC administrative assistant

“We are pleased for a decisive decision in the election of world leadership. It is evidence of the Lord leading as we look toward the future.”

–Bryce Pascoe, NPUC executive secretary

“I am always interested in the process. I believe in the process – it’s God’s church and he’s in control. I look forward to seeing the next chapter.”

–Doug Bing, Washington Conference, vice president

“I learned about Ted’s election and we wish him well in his leadership role.”

–Judy Leach, Adventist Medical Center, marketing and communication director

“I don’t know him but his father had his position and I’m hearing very good things about him – that he’s a very spiritual man. I think he’s God’s first choice. Our church prayed for God’s first choice – not ours.”

–Virginia Merrill, Washington member

“I have found in my involvement with the church that God is always in control. Jan Paulsen did an excellent job of leading this church through challenging times and I know God will give the wisdom and skills needed to our new president, Ted Wilson. I would ask that each of us lift him up in prayer as he takes on these new responsibilities.”

–Al Reimche, Oregon Conference president

What a passion our Adventist ladies have for the work of The Lord!  As I spent time conversing with passers-by at the NAD Women’s Ministry exhibit, it became very apparent – God’s women are eager to serve!  They have varied gifts, talents, and experience, and this thing in common - their enthusiastic choice to be leaders for God. 

There is some ruckus over what leadership is or should be.   As a matter of fact, the first question I received only moments after arriving was, “How do you feel about women’s ordination?”  I must say, that was a daunting question and a well thought out response was needed. I immediately shot up a prayer, “Ok Lord, what do you want me to say?”  Giving an opinion isn’t the problem, but the answer, can so often be divisive. 

Again, the question comes, “Are you for or against it?”  I said, “I’m not sure it is that simple or black and white.  But, I do know it is not the mission of the NAD women’s ministry department.  We are about helping women create meaningful relationships and work for Jesus! Whether it’s in the home, in the church, or in the community, our goal is to educate, support, and empower God’s women in their special giftedness to make a difference and have a voice!  Women’s ministry is about “women doing ministry” and that’s not necessarily about having a title.  Jesus said, the work is plentiful, and the workers are few!  My goal is to help get this work done so we all can go home!” 

The NAD Women’s Ministry exhibit special focus, “Joy in the Journey” is an example of the many tools that have been developed in order to support women doing evangelism.  This 11-part study is a complete program with DVD’s, workbook, and a leader guide that will allow anyone to hold a bible study in their church or home – and best of all, it is “woman friendly!”  There are so many materials available at the NAD website that no one should feel bound by inexperience – check it out www.nadwm.org and get your program going today! 

This General Conference session has helped me catch a glimpse of the great effort being made to aid all women in their desire to serve and win souls for the kingdom, and that’s exciting!  We all have a voice, a gift, and can make a difference!

Cheri Gatton, Idaho Conference women’s ministry director, writes from the NAD Women’s Ministries exhibit booth at the GC Session in Atlanta, Ga.