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Southern Tidings, Atlanta, GA (2025)

08/27/2025

Southern Adventist University was honored to receive a 2025 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, an accolade for organizations that lead with integrity. Chattanooga’s chapter of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) made presentations to winners in five categories on May 14, 2025, at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Winning for the local region in the category of 100+ employees, Southern earned a perfect score.

“Ethics and teaching our students positive Christian character traits are core to who we are, as an institution and as individuals, here at Southern,” says Ken Shaw, Ed.D., president of Southern. “This wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and wholehearted commitment of our faculty and staff. Our team is united in our mission because we have a collective goal that each is passionate about — transforming lives for eternity.”

The Torch Award for Ethics is based on how an institution demonstrates trust through the BBB’s four Cs of trust: character, culture, customers, and community. Nominees were invited to provide information demonstrating focus in each area, which was then evaluated and scored by a panel of judges.

Central to Southern’s mission is a commitment to teaching and modeling ethical practices, making the campus a robust Christlike environment where employees strive to support others, share God’s love through every interaction, and generously give back to the community.

Michele Mason, president of the Chattanooga BBB, wrote in an announcement following the award ceremony, “We honored organizations that don’t just talk the talk about ethics — they live it.”

08/26/2025

This past Sabbath, the Georgia-Cumberland Conference, in collaboration with the Southern Union, hosted a day of Disaster Relief emphasis at the Savannah First Church. Sabbath School was led by Luis Biazotto, Georgia-Cumberland Adventist Community Services director. The sermon was given by Victor Maddox, Southern Union Adventist Community Services director. Both men emphasized the importance of Christians serving others. Following the church's luncheon, members attended a two hour disaster relief training where presenters shared about personal, family, and church preparedness in times of disaster.

Both Biazotto and Maddox expressed the importance of the Savannah First Church being prepared for disaster. Due to its location near the coast, the church and their community is at a higher risk for disasters like flooding and hurricanes than churches located more inland. Many members expressed interest in continuing their disaster relief training so they can better serve their community if disaster occurs.

08/25/2025

AdventHealth University unveiled a new bachelor of science in health humanities and social sciences, the first of several new degrees and certificates debuting in the fall 2025 and spring 2026 terms.

The health humanities degree provides a foundation for students preparing to do graduate work in medicine, physical therapy, health care law, chaplaincy, health care administration, counseling, and psychology. The degree teaches them to examine health and illness from a variety of perspectives, including those of the humanities, communication, psychology, sociology, and religion. This new degree also allows students to take prerequisite courses they need to gain admission into graduate or professional schools of their choice.

“Our degree equips students to become wholistic practitioners,” said Julie Cook, M.A., chair of the Health Humanities and Social Sciences Department at AdventHealth University. “We want our students to see their future patients or clients in the context of their lives.”

This four-year degree allows students to choose a minor in health care administration, language, or religion, and students are encouraged to take summer breaks for volunteer work, study abroad, or research activities. Courses include “Rhetoric of Health and Medicine,” “Narrative in Healthcare,” “Abnormal Psychology,” “Aging and Society,” and “Introduction to Christian Ethics.”

The program aims to grow to 50 students at maximum capacity.

Other upcoming academic offerings at AdventHealth University include an associate degree in science and technology, and a master’s degree in clinical ministry, as well as a biomedical equipment technician certificate.

“AdventHealth University is committed to increasing access to a high-quality college education and meeting the workforce needs of our community,” said C. Josef Ghosn, Ed.D., FACHE, president of AdventHealth University. “Expanding our portfolio of whole person education offerings with this health humanities and social sciences degree helps open the door to those who want to uplift and understand the communities they serve.”

Whole-person education at AdventHealth University focuses on belonging, well-being, fulfillment and purpose, and building a foundation that will allow graduates to smoothly transition to practicing whole-person care. Through whole-person care, an individual’s physical, mental, and spiritual needs are examined — an approach delivered by AdventHealth, where students receive their clinical experience.

A degree in health humanities will foster a new generation of leaders, closing critical gaps in care by equipping students with the empathy and critical thinking needed to advocate for patients and clients in today’s rapidly evolving health care and business landscape.

08/24/2025

First Lithonia Church in Lithonia, Ga., launched an ambitious mission in August 2022: eliminate the remaining $326,000 on its mortgage in record time. Powered by faith and fueled by generosity, the Lithonia congregation embraced the challenge wholeheartedly.

Church leaders urged members to “dig deep and give generously” — and they did. What began as a daunting financial goal quickly transformed into a powerful movement of unity, sacrifice, and shared purpose.

The church members had not only reached their goal by October 2024, but exceeded all expectations, paying off the entire mortgage balance ahead of schedule.

The celebration was held in January 2025, when the congregation gathered for a special ceremony to mark the milestone. The sanctuary was adorned in purple, symbolizing royalty, and green, representing freedom — a visual tribute to the significance of the day.

Joining current pastor Ronnie Williams, Ph.D., were Carl Nesmith, Lithonia’s first pastor; Horace Malone, Lithonia’s second pastor; and Calvin B. Preston, South Atlantic Conference president.

“This was more than just paying off a debt,” said a church representative. “It was a testament to what can happen when a community comes together with a unified vision and unwavering faith.”

The mortgage-burning initiative was a defining chapter in the church’s history, highlighting not only financial stewardship but also the spiritual and communal strength of the members. The accomplishment continues to serve as a source of inspiration and pride in the church’s ongoing mission.

08/23/2025

Attendees of Kentucky-Tennessee Conference Camp Meeting this year experienced a transformed setting, thanks to several key improvements rolled out across the Highland Academy Campus. The updates included new chairs, six additional cabins, renovated bathroom facilities, and the introduction of a new walking trail.

“After last year’s Camp Meeting, we decided that it was time to make some renovations,” said Brian Milano, pastor and Camp Meeting superintendent. “One of our priorities was the bathhouses. They had been around for decades and needed to be replaced. Our goal was to improve the overall experience for campers.”

Milano, along with Andy Wade, landscape service director at Highland Academy, and Chad Litchfield, a church member at the Highland Church, acted as general contractors to manage the renovations efficiently and cost-effectively. The team oversaw the full remodel of the upper bathhouse, which included tearing off a rotting roof; gutting the interior; and installing new showers, sinks, and toilets. While some labor was subcontracted, such as metal roofing and masonry, the core team completed much of the work themselves to reduce costs.

In addition to the bathhouse, the team installed six new cabins to replace deteriorating tents. Milano says that the cabins offered a much-improved experience, keeping campers dry, bug-free, and protected from weather.

“A lot of people take vacation time to come to Camp Meeting,” said Milano. “We wanted to make sure they could enjoy it.”

One of the most talked-about additions this year was the Wellness Trail, a new walking path envisioned and directed by Malinda Haley, Conference health ministries director. Built alongside wooded areas on the Highland Academy Campus, the trail is meant to provide a quiet, safe space for attendees who want to jog, walk, or spend time with their family.

“My hope was to create a space where people could step away from the activities of the day and find peace,” said Haley. “The [Wellness Trail] puts into practice the knowledge shared in seminars and health talks, nurturing whole-person wellness — mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.”

The Wellness Trail was made possible through funding from the Kentucky- Tennessee Conference and numerous individual donations. Ben Copley, ranger at Indian Creek Camp, helped pitch the idea and coordinate logistics. Wade also shaped the trail layout and oversaw features like fencing, signage, landscaping, and a parking area. Volunteers, including academy students, local pastors, and families, contributed labor to help complete the trail in time for this year’s Camp Meeting.

Milano said the improvements reflect the Conference’s commitment to the Camp Meeting experience.

“Good administration means caring about people’s time here,” said Milano. “If they leave feeling refreshed and supported, then we’ve done our job.”

For next year, more projects are already in the planning stages, including renovations to the lower bathhouse, upgrades to RV utilities, and construction of a new maintenance facility.

08/22/2025

"Bob Hunter, pastor of the Stone Mountain, Georgia, church delivered the Easter message at the sunrise service atop Georgia's Stone Mountain. The service was attended by some 4,000 people and was covered by three of the local Atlanta television stations. The service was videotaped and aired on Stone Mountain church's television program 'Discovery.'" - Southern Tidings August 1985 Issue

08/21/2025

Oakwood University Church in Huntsville, Ala., made history earlier this month by launching its first Friendship Camp, a dedicated camping experience designed specifically for 10-year-old Pathfinders in the Friend Class — the youngest members of the Pathfinder Club.

The pilot program, held April 5-7, 2025, offered an engaging, hands-on, and spiritually enriching outdoor weekend. The camp was created to address the developmental needs of the Friend Class while focusing on essential Pathfinder skills, building friendships, and supporting spiritual growth.

Led by a team of dedicated volunteers and youth leaders under the guidance of Brian Dublin, Pathfinder director, and Dwain Woode, M.D., Friend Class counselor, the Friendship Camp initiative was part of a bold effort to create a unique experience for young participants. Unlike larger Pathfinder campouts, the Friend Class weekend offered a more intimate and age-specific environment.

Campers arrived on Friday, pitching their tents and preparing for a weekend of learning, laughter, and community building. Despite rain late Saturday night, which forced the group to move indoors to the church’s Family Life Center, the event proceeded smoothly. Organizers noted that the storm’s timing seemed providential, as campers and equipment were safely moved inside before heavy rainfall started.

Throughout the weekend, campers not only developed life skills but also earned four honors: Pin Trading, Seeds, Red Alert, and a special Friendship Camp honor developed exclusively for the event. Activities included hiking, drill exercises, group discussions, worship services, and leadership training.

A key highlight of the weekend was the active involvement of TLTs (Teen Leadership Trainees), who were integrated into the camp structure as leaders- in-training. TLTs Blake Woode, Caroline Anderson, Matthew Robinson, Annayia Crummy, and Brooklyn Dublin managed logistics, meal preparation, tent setups, and camper support.

The TLT teens demonstrated their leadership capacity, particularly during Friday’s dinner when they worked as a team to organize, prepare, and serve a meal for all participants. Their efforts earned praise from both campers and organizers, highlighting their growth as emerging leaders

Serving as “Master Chiefs,” Myra Graves and Brian Dublin Jr., provided spiritual guidance and oversight during the camp. Graves added a creative touch by designing a custom logo for Friendship Camp, which was turned into a commemorative patch. Each Pathfinder received one of the patches as a keepsake, symbolizing their accomplishments and experiences over the weekend.

Young Pathfinders shared heartfelt reflections at the end of the event. Among the highlights:

• “I liked that I got to enjoy myself, have fun with my friends, and also have some good food.”

• “I learned you need a permit to start a fire — and that not everything is a game. Sometimes you have to be serious.”

• “We moved to the gym right before the rain came. It was like Jesus was holding it back just for us.”

Speaking after the weekend, Woode reflected on the event during the church’s investiture program: “We’re always looking to innovate, and this year’s Friendship Camp was one of those innovations. No fuss: just tents, tools, teamwork, and trust. It was a special weekend that we believe laid a foundation for many more Friend Class campers to come.”

The pilot program drew enthusiastic support from parents, church leaders, and Conference officials. With its success, Oakwood University Church now hopes to make Friendship Camp a recurring tradition, blending faith, friendship, and personal development for its youngest Pathfinders.

08/20/2025

On August 11–12, the Southern Union ministerial directors, associates, and evangelism directors gathered to share, grow, and learn together about evangelism best practices. Discussions focused on the 2026 Union-wide evangelistic initiatives, current opportunities and challenges, and church planting strategies.

A key insight from our time together was the encouraging news that the growth of the “NONES” has not only stopped but has begun to reverse. This reaffirmed the importance of reaching people through intentional initiatives and the vital role that relationships play in effective evangelism. We left the gathering united in mission and renewed in purpose.

08/19/2025

The South Atlantic Conference Office of Education under the leadership of Kim Gaiter, superintendent, held its 2025 Educator Commissioning and Dedication Ceremony at River Oaks Campground in Orangeburg, S.C. The sacred event honored a distinguished group of Adventist educators who have dedicated a decade or more of service to the ministry of Christian education.

To qualify for shortlisting for commissioning, teachers must meet a number of rigorous criteria. These include a minimum of six to 10 years of unbroken denominational service, proven spiritual maturity, involvement in their local church, and proof of ongoing professional development. They should also be able to offer clear evidence of the integration of faith within their teaching practice, and evidence of leadership in school and church communities.

This year, the South Atlantic Conference was privileged to commission 10 exceptional educators as the 2025 Commissioning Class. Combined, these teachers have more than 130 years of service within Adventist education. Awardees are Rhyanne Carrington, associate superintendent, with 10 years of service; Khandi Cooper, M.Ed., 11 years; Gisele G. Fields, M.Ed., 12 years; Deidre Hodnett, B.A., 24 years; Yanick Lebrun, M.B.A., 12 years; Jennifer Mabry, M.Ed., 13 years; Felicia Barnard, M.Ed., 10 years; Courtney Stokes, M.Ed., 17 years; and Jennifer Wales, Ed.D. candidate, with 10 years of continuous service.

Each candidate was formally recognized and given a charge by guest presenter Nehemiah Mabry, Ph.D., and Calvin Preston, South Atlantic Conference president, to continue their ministry in education with renewed purpose, spiritual passion, and unwavering faith. Their commissioning stands as a testament to their impact and commitment to the sacred mission of Adventist education. Leaders reminded attendees that Adventist education is more than academics; it is a sacred calling to shape lives for eternity. The ceremony served not only as a personal milestone for the educators honored, but as a recommitment by the Church to the high calling of Christ-centered education.

As the Church navigates a rapidly changing world, this ceremony echoed a powerful truth: Now more than ever, Adventist schools need committed, spiritually grounded educators who see their work as a ministry and mission. Through their example, the Commissioning Class of 2025 embodies the Church’s commitment to “educate for eternity,” equipping students not only for success in this life, but for the life to come.

08/18/2025

The joy of baptism! This past Sabbath, several individuals made a commitment to Jesus through the public act of baptism at the Bethany Seventh-day Adventist Church. These joyous commitments took place during part of Southern Union President Dr. Ron C. Smith's three week System for Survival crusade. Please pray for all those involved in this evangelistic endeavor through its conclusion on August 23.

08/17/2025

With the theme “Forward in Faith,” the 2025 Gulf States Conference Camp Meeting drew members from across Alabama, Mississippi, and the Florida panhandle to the peaceful grounds of Bass Memorial Academy, May 28-31. The gathering served as a time of spiritual renewal, fellowship, and inspiration for all ages.

“We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us,” said Brian Danese, Gulf States Conference president, quoting Testimonies to Ministers, p. 31, in his opening message. “This year’s Camp Meeting reminds us that our path forward is anchored in God’s proven faithfulness.”

Each morning began with uplifting devotionals led by Cesar Leon, Kenneth Araya, and Samson Bush. Their messages helped set the tone for each day, calling attendees to deeper trust and dependence on God’s promises.

Throughout the week, dynamic keynote speakers David Long, Southern Union Conference director for stewardship, personal ministries, Sabbath School, prayer ministries, and prison ministries, and Roy Ice, host of the Lifestyle TV series and speaker/director for Faith for Today, delivered powerful sermons that challenged and encouraged attendees. Long, with his series on prayer and the church triumphant, stirred hearts to seek spiritual awakening. Ice resonated deeply with attendees of all ages, calling the church to practical love and authentic Christian living in an increasingly disconnected world.

The seminar tracks featured health presentations at Uchee Pines Institute, with Adan Sanchez addressing topics such as therapeutic fasting and reversing diabetes, while Pablo Piovesan explored brain optimization and cholesterol awareness. The seminars affirmed the Adventist commitment to wholistic well-being.

The early Friday morning 5K Walk/Run energized the campground as participants came together in a spirit of fellowship and wellness. More than just a race, the event underscored the vital connection between physical well-being and a thriving spiritual life, reminding all that caring for the body honors the Creator.

Children and youth experienced vibrant programs tailored to their spiritual growth and fellowship. From water slides to age-appropriate Bible classes, each child was engaged and nurtured in faith. For young adults, the highlight was hearing from Esteban Santana, pastor of the Fort Walton Beach, Fla., Church. His relevant and heartfelt messages spoke directly to the challenges and aspirations of the rising generation.

Sabbath was marked by joyful worship, deep reflection, and a stirring concert by renowned gospel singer Jennifer LaMountain. Her music offered moments of grace and hope, beautifully capping off a Spirit-filled weekend.

As families packed up and said their goodbyes Sunday morning, a shared sentiment remained: renewed commitment, deeper community, and forward momentum in Christ.

08/16/2025

Earlier this year, the Georgia-Cumberland Conference Personal Ministries Department launched their new program, Mission Possible. This program was developed to encourage and teach the principles of friendship evangelism. While this program is primarily built for children, it can help anyone who is interested in the basics of getting to know people in your community.

“Mission Possible is a kindness initiative where we’re encouraging all to share Jesus,” said Mellisa Hoffman, personal ministries secretary. “I think people want to share Jesus, but they don’t always know how. Especially those brought up in the Church — they may know how to give out a pamphlet for a last-days seminar or think they have to do something big, but Jesus never said that. He wants us to go out and share His love with others. Churches do a great job of telling people that they need to do it, but they don’t often teach us how.”

This teaching aspect is where Mission Possible comes in. Each week on Sabbath, youth are given their “mission” for the week. Some of the missions include postal worker appreciation, neighborhood prayer walk, partner with a church ministry, making flower bouquets for shut-ins, and many more. The program is also rewards-based, so as youth complete missions, they increase their “security clearance” and earn small prizes for progressing. As youth participate, their families naturally become a part of sharing Jesus as well.

Brittany Galbraith, a mother of three homeschoolers from the Standifer Gap Church, said that she’s grateful for the long-term effects of her children taking part in the program.

“As a busy mom, I could find ways for our kids to share Jesus, but to be honest I was quite stumped,” says Galbraith. “I was overwhelmed at the thought of witnesses because I thought it meant sharing a book or a tract, giving Bible studies, or having a conversation about biblical truths. I was not in a place where I felt confident to be that kind of instrument for the Lord. What I have appreciated about Mission Possible is that each week we’re given a card with a mission or an idea. And, it’s something simple that my kids can do or what I can do.”

Galbraith and her children started out sharing with family or friends who needed encouragement, which was a blessing, but Galbraith felt challenged to reach out to people they don’t know. One of her children asked if they could go and share with one of their neighbors. Galbraith was nervous at the prospect since they didn’t really know or interact with their neighbors very often, so this was outside of her comfort zone. But, the children started sharing with their neighbors and this developed a relationship.

“Over time, we’ve built relationships with our neighbors and have conversations about Jesus. We’ve been able to pray with them in their home. We’ve gotten to know their health challenges, and have shared them with our church prayer team. So, through Mission Possible, it’s helped me realize that witnessing for Jesus is in the simple acts of everyday kindness.”

More information about Mission Possible can be found on the Conference website under the Personal Ministries Department.

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