President’s Monthly Update: November 2022

Several important events happened in October:

Northern District Sabbath in Rice Lake with Dr. Tim Madding from NADEI was an excellent opportunity to inspire and reignite the missionary and discipleship spirit for all participants. We enjoyed the great hospitality of the Northern part of the state led by the Rice Lake Church.

“Caravana Evangelistica de Esperanza” (Oct 1-8) with Pastor Mario Rondon offered an opportunity to invite more precious souls into God’s Kingdom in Eau Claire, Madison, Sheboygan, and Milwaukee. Thanks to Pastor Evelio Miranda, all Hispanic pastors, and local leaders for a successful evangelistic campaign.

The Education Department organized L.I.F.T. at Camp Wakonda. L.I.F.T. is an interactive retreat designed to inspire young people to make positive choices that will benefit their lives and the lives of others: spiritually, socially, and physically.

The second meeting of the Leadership Cohort for pastors was an excellent opportunity to discuss leadership patterns in the Adventist Church. Pastors Jonathan Fetrick and Zack Payne were the main presenters. The next Cohort will be on Nov 28, 2022, at 2:00 pm on ZOOM.

The 39th Constituency Session was the event of the year. By God’s grace, the delegates from all over the state and guests gathered together to worship, listen to reports, elect the leaders, and vote on strategic plans and initiatives for the future.

Andrews University Board of Trustees and S.D.A. Theological Seminary Executive Committee were excellent opportunities to listen to and vote on reports and changes related to the Seminary and the University.

North American Division Year-End Meetings, in person for the first time since COVID-19, gathered over 300 members to debate and vote on important policies and mission-focused initiatives. Rodney Hahn and I were privileged to represent the Wisconsin Conference and be part of the decision-making process.

I had the opportunity to worship with Northern District, Beaver Dam, and Wisconsin Rapids this month.

Our greatest need is not another program or more resources but the Holy Spirit through an intentional intergenerational discipleship environment in the entire Conference.

“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions” Joel 2: 28.

 

Titus Naftanaila, president