Elisabet Kirkland

By Mark Weir

If there is one thing that we can almost be certain will happen in our churches each week, it is this—people will come together for worship. Although, I did encounter a small group of people who only came together when the pastor was there, and their reason for this was simple: why should they bother to come when he didn’t.

In most of our churches, there is a tremendous amount of time and energy that goes into preparing for the worship service each week. And if you live in an area where there are multiple church options, it is very easy to slide into spectator mode—attending the church of your choice simply based on what you like best.

When we lived in the Spokane, Washington, area I regularly heard about what was happening in the Walla Walla area. With almost a dozen “worship” options within a few miles of each other, there was always “something” happening in one of the churches. Also, there were a variety of styles to worship to choose from. The University Church had great music and a wide variety of special guest speakers. The Village Church had dozens of retired pastors and a very traditional service. There was another Church that aimed to be a bit more contemporary. Another church focused on young adults and families. Then there was a church that seemed to fashion itself as the conservative alternative, plus several other smaller churches trying to establish their niche.

Needless to say, on any given Sabbath there were multiple “options” to consider; different “flavors” to sample, different “special events” to enjoy. It was almost like going to a restaurant, looking at a menu and saying, “What sounds good to me today?”

Yet the common denominator was this thing we call WORSHIP.

So, the question that must be asked is this: what is worship supposed to be all about? Is it about my preferences? If that were the case, then … who has the best music, or speaker, or kids programing, or guests, or nicest greeters, or best food, or uses the Bible version that I prefer, or any number of other factors that all are centered on me and what I like best. Yet the question remains, and that is what is worship really all about?

Recently I shared several sermons on this topic with our church family because, while we come into a building, is simply filling a seat all that worship is about?

We began the sermon series by examining the meaning of the word worship, and many will be surprised to discover that the actual word has a very specific meaning: attributing worth and praise to God. When we come together to “worship,” we are gathering to celebrate what GOD HAS DONE, and if we focus on anything else, we are on a very slippery slope. When we understand and embrace the fact that I exist because of what God has done, I have hope and a future because of what God has done. I have gifts and skills and opportunities because of what God has done, and suddenly, my focus begins to shift. So, the music isn’t my favorite. I worship what God has done. So, the speaker isn’t very thought-provoking. I worship what God has done. So, the people weren’t very friendly. I worship what God has done. Because worship is not about me, or them. It is about God, and I want to acknowledge what He has done.

But this is only the beginning, because worship also has a direction, an aim, a target, so to speak. While the word worship has a specific meaning, the purpose of all that we do when we worship should be pointing a certain direction, and that direction is towards God.

I think we would all pay lip service to that concept, but within each of our hearts is where the challenge comes. Let me explain.

What if, when we came together for worship, our only focus was to make everything we did and said centered on making the experience as wonderful for God as it could be? I realize this may sound odd, but if the audience for worship is the Lord, then everything is all about Him. Are we bringing our best? And if we are going to bring our best, it will cost us something. It will cost us time, energy, creativity, attention, plus much more. We have come into His presence, and it is an awesome presence. There is nothing I bring that adds to Who He is, but I still bring my best, as an expression of appreciation.

When our worship puts God back at the center—makes Him the focus—our petty preferences pale. And it is right here where true, powerful, authentic worship happens.

We have all heard the stories—stories of the mighty moving of the Holy Spirit—times when it was obvious to all that something powerful was happening. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it were more than stories, but our experience?

Most of us are aware of the need for power. Whether it is for our cars, our homes, our phones, without power, we cannot function. So, shouldn’t it be the same when we worship? Shouldn’t there be a power that is palpable and present, that is tangible and transformative? Aren’t we tired of just going through the motions?

The power that is so needed in our worship services is not impossible to discover. It simply takes focus and purpose. This implies that not only should those leading out in worship prepare, but so should every person who attends.

So, how do worshippers prepare to worship?

Whatever we do in life, there is preparation that is necessary. From eating breakfast to getting ready to go to work, preparation happens. So, when it comes to worship, my personal preparation will include things like my attitude—am I coming to give or get; am I going to be a channel of blessing or a recipient; am I coming to receive inspiration or be a source of inspiration for someone else? These are attitudes we bring with us every time we walk through the doors of the church.

Also, am I teachable? Regardless of what is happening, am I looking for something I can learn that will help me serve Jesus better? Am I listening for insights I may not have considered? Am I endeavoring to understand musical expressions that may not be my favorite but seem to speak powerfully to others? And each week, do I spend time in prayer before coming to church praying for the pastor, the people leading out, the person walking through the door for the first time?

For those leading worship, are we thinking about the various ways people learn? Most church services do a lot that is auditory. Many are doing more with the visual aspect using projection elements. Yet is it possible to become so technologically savvy that we miss what the real purpose of worship is—attributing worth and honor to God?

When authentic worship happens, two results should be seen: God’s power is evident and lives are being changed. The best example we have of this is found in the early church in Acts 2:42-47. Here is the record of a worshiping community.

In verse 42 we discover they were a Learning Church—people listened to the teachings of the apostles about Jesus every day.

Also, in verse 42 we find that they were a Fellowship Church—they found value in spending time together.

In addition, we read in verse 42 that they were a Praying Church—that was where they found their strength. They would go before God before they went out into the world. They could meet life’s problems because they had met with God first.

The results of this are also found in verse 42—they were an Awesome Church. Awesome in that they were filled with awe toward God and all that He had done. There was a sense of wonder and expectation. There was a respect for God and for others because they knew that everything they did brought as awareness of their Lord.

In verse 43 we discover that this was a Happening Church. Signs, wonders, miracles, transformation—people expected great things to happen and they did.

From verses 44 and 45 we learn that they were a Sharing Church. It appears that there was an intense feeling of responsibility they had towards one another which led to generous giving so that everyone could prosper.

In verse 46 we find that they were a Worshipping Church—these people never forgot to visit God’s house. It was when they were together that things happened, when God’s Spirit moved in a mighty way. They demonstrated that solitary religion is not the path to follow.

And finally, in verses 46 and 47 we see that they were a Happy Church—joy and gladness is what the people experienced, and others found these believers to be winsome and attractive. There was indeed something unique about those worshippers, and, as a result, the Lord added daily to those being saved (verse 47).

This is the kind of worship we are striving toward!

—Mark Weir is lead pastor of Denver South Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photo by Matthew de Livera of Unsplash.

RMCNews – Denver, Colorado … Nine Pathfinder Club teams demonstrated their dedication to their studies of the biblical book of Isaiah at the 2026 Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE) finals hosted at the Denver South Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church in Denver, Colorado, February 21. Each team answered 90 questions about the biblical text over a several-hour time span with each team’s answers reviewed by two neutral judges.

Of the nine teams, three will be continuing with first place rankings to the Union Level Testing being held at Mile High Academy in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, March 21. The teams advancing include the Ghanian Golden Eagles Team 1, Aurora Las Aguilas Team 1, and Littleton Lights. This was the first year of the Ghanian Seventh-day Adventist Church’s club participation in the PBE, and they currently have the largest Pathfinder Club in RMC.

Any team receiving a first-place ranking at the Union-level finals in March will progress to the North American Division finals in Hawthorne, Florida, April 17-18.

“We’ve been doing a lot of PBE Academy and clinics for three months now. If we got answers wrong [in practices], we would look over it a couple of times and memorize it,” reflected Jaden, Ghanian Golden Eagles Team 2 Pathfinder Club member, on the preparations for the event. “My favorite part of PBE is working as a team and collaborating. It’s fun, and you should try it.”

For Colorado Indonesian-American Seventh-day Adventist Church Flying Garuda Pathfinder Club member Catherine, this was her first year participating in the event: “I was invited by our captain, and I felt like it would be a nice thing to do, going into the Bible and learning a lot.”

Facilitating the event was RMC Club Ministries co-executive coordinators Sue Nelson and Eli Gonzales, RMC Youth assistant directors Brent Learned and Jade Teal, and Juan Carlos Montano, volunteer interpreter, as the Spanish language quiz master and Jodie Gage, RMC co-Pathfinder coordinator, as the English language quiz master.

“This was actually the first year I have been quizmaster, but I have been a judge since it was the Bible Bowl,” commented Gage. “This is so important for the kids as it builds their relationship with God. The more they read and memorize the Bible, the more it will ‘stick.’ And I love watching [the kids] expressions when they get it right. They get so excited.”

The evening featured two special musical presentations by four youth from the Greeley Lesem Pathfinder Club and a lively rendition of a song based on the scripture text in the Book of Isiah by the Fort Morgan Warriors Pathfinder Club.

A special devotional message was given by Hugo Guillen, RMC Ministerial associate director and lead for Multicultural Ministries, referencing the story of Naaman and the little girl in 2 Kings Chapter 5: “This little girl put in motion something amazing. I want to challenge you today not to stay just with that knowledge but share that knowledge. And listen, it’s not what you’re going to do with it, it is what is God going to do with you.”

“The Pathfinder Ministry is an incredible way for adults and mentors to connect with kids,” remarked Learned, also the RMC Club Ministries director, at the close of the event. “I have been leading [RMC] Club Ministries since Fall of 2021, and I think my favorite part is when the kids are coming up to get their awards. To see the kids light up with excitement because they’ve they know they’ve memorized that passage, that’s really powerful.”

—RMCNews. Photos by Liz Kirkland.

Hannah A. Manase – Lincoln, Nebraska … The symphony and jazz band at Campion academy in Loveland, Colorado, traveled to Union Adventist University (UAU) in Lincoln, Nebraska, to perform with other student musicians from the Mid-America Union for their annual Music Festival, February 4-7.

Directed by Naomi Fernandez, CA music director, 24 students represented Campion Academy. Over half of Campion’s group were first-time festival attendees.

Fernandez emphasized, “The Union Adventist University Music Festival was very successful at connecting the values of hard work and personal investment with the outcomes of musical excellence and the highest artistry experiences.”

After three full days of practice, students got to showcase their performances by individual academy on Friday and as a united group on Saturday evening.

“I am proud of the way our students presented themselves in their standalone performances as well as in the collective groups,” Fernandez expressed.

The students commented on how they enjoyed learning new music, performing, and traveling with friends. “It was a lot of fun to hang out with the kids from other schools and perform the songs that we worked so hard on!” Daniel O., sophomore student, stated.

“Being at music fest really made me more confident in playing, and the directors really helped me and made sure I was confident and knew my part. It was also super fun to be able to hang out with my friends in our downtime. It was a very educational and fun trip,” concluded Moses W., sophomore student.

—Hannah A. Manase, Campion Academy Students News Team. Photos supplied.

RMCNews – Denver, Colorado … The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) is pleased to announce that Sean Lee has accepted the call to be the new Ministerial director. Lee will begin his duties at the conference April 1.

“We are thrilled to welcome our new ministerial director Sean Lee to the Rocky Mountain Conference,” commented Dave VandeVere, RMC president. “His depth of pastoral experience, commitment to professional development, and heart for ministry bring a meaningful foundation to this role.  We look forward to seeing how his leadership will shape, strengthen, and support our pastors and churches in the years ahead.”

Lee has most recently been the lead pastor of the Southview Seventh-day Adventist Church in Eagan, Minnesota, and served until a year ago as the Ministerial assistant director and Twin Cities coordinator for the Minnesota Seventh-day Adventist Conference. He is also a volunteer chaplain for the Eagan Police Department.

Prior to these leadership positions, Lee has served the greater Seventh-day Adventist Church in a variety of functions over the last two decades in pastor, associate pastor, and associate youth director roles in Maryland, California, and Michigan. He began his service as a missionary musician from the Northern Asia Pacific Division with the Golden Angels Singers ministry.

Holding a doctorate in Ministry and a Master of Business Administration from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, with chaplain endorsements and certifications in marriage counseling, Lee will be a great asset to the RMC pastors he will serve in this new role. Lee has also remarked on his passion for Adventist education, youth and young adult ministry, and cultural diversity, and on his respect for both traditional and modern forms of evangelism from preaching to innovative multimedia ministries.

“It is exciting to recognize that we are part of something greater than ourselves,” reflected Lee on the upcoming transition. “Responding to God’s calling reminds me that I am part of His greater purpose, and that fills me with gratitude and excitement. I look forward to serving the Rocky Mountain Conference, especially collaborating with my fellow pastors. Just as I have poured my heart in serving the Southview family, I will pour my heart to the RMC pastors with commitment and determination.”

“I have known Sean for years as a dedicated pastor and wonderful Chirstian. I am really excited that he is coming to RMC,” commented Doug Inglish, RMC vice president for Administration.

Hugo Guillen, RMC Ministerial associate director and lead for Multicultural Ministries, remarked, “I am happy to know that we are getting a new team member here at RMC. From my initial conversations and the entire interview process, I believe Pastor Sean Lee will fit right into what we are seeking to accomplish as a conference. His passion and understanding of pastoral ministry will definitely be a blessing for our pastoral team. I know God is building something special in our region.”

Lee will be relocating with his wife, Helen, and their two sons, Nathan and Joseph. As a family, they enjoy such outdoor activities as hiking and biking, various sports, and making music.

—RMCNews. Photo supplied.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … At Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Valentine’s Day was about more than cards and candy—it was about connection, care, and community. Feeding 283 students, along with faculty, staff, and even parent volunteers, was no small task. But, for the MHA team, it was a labor of love rooted in a deeper mission: showing students the love of Jesus and reminding them that they matter.

Before sunrise on February 13, the campus was already alive with activity as staff and parents worked side by side to prepare the special brunch. Fifth-grade teacher Jason DuBose and administrative assistant Gabi DuBose were among those who volunteered their time to cook and set up for the morning.

“I love cooking, and this is an amazing opportunity for us to show our students we care,” said DuBose.

The brunch is part of a broader emotional intelligence initiative at MHA, where staff are intentional about helping students feel safe, loved, and valued. While this commitment shows up in many ways throughout the school year, sharing a meal together is one of the simplest—and most meaningful—expressions of care.

MHA chaplain RD Gallant reflected on the heart behind the event, saying, “This is what we do at MHA.”

Students also appreciated both the food and the fellowship. Sophomore student Jerren shared, “The food was amazing—I loved the pancakes! With so many activities during the week, it was great to eat together and relax a bit.”

Senior student Asa highlighted the deeper meaning behind the event, saying, “The reasoning and intention was great—that the school thought to get everyone together and fellowship on a day that celebrates love.”

From the kitchen to the cafeteria, the Valentine’s Day brunch was more than just a meal. It was a reminder that at MHA, every student is seen, valued, and deeply cared for—and that a caring community, including dedicated parents, makes that possible.

—Cindy Roldan is MHA Student Services director. Photos by Cindy Roldan.

RMCNews – Aurora, Colorado … The Mile High Indonesian Fellowship in Aurora, Colorado, celebrated the welcoming of its first official pastor, Stanley Luntungan, February 14, with a special worship service. Over 100 people were in attendance for the celebration.

Luntungan served in the Gulf States Conference in northern Alabama, previously ministered in the Northern New England Conference, and is faithfully serving as a U.S. military reserve chaplain.

The church has grown quickly in recent years, changing from a company to a church designation in October of 2023 after forming in 2021. One recent focus of the church was on their young adults in which the church supported their participation at a Generation Youth Christ (GYC) conference. Church elder Albert Palar remarked, “We sent 14 people to the GYC, and there is now a good relationship between them. They are more active [in church] now. That is some of the Gospel that we see from Pastor Lantungan, and we are very sure that we can achieve more in the future with him.”

Doug Inglish, RMC vice president for administration, gave the sermon for the Sabbath service both for this event and when they received church designation and gave a special blessing to the new pastor: “We lift up Pastor Luntungan, and we are grateful that he was called here and willing to lead this church as they march forward in Jesus.”

Special prayers were also given by Praban Lim, lead pastor of the Colorado Indonesian-American Adventist Church.

The event featured several special music offerings from a mixed choir to a contemporary song from four youth girls to even a male quartet. Tammy Luntungan, wife of Pastor Luntungan, shared a memorable children’s story during worship, using colored pencils to provide a clear and meaningful illustration that unity gives us strength.

—RMCNews. Photos by Liz Kirkland.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … The third- through fifth-grade students at Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, recently experienced the magic of live orchestral music at Boettcher Concert Hall during the Colorado Symphony’s annual Youth Concerts.

The concert, guided by a central theme connecting people, places, and ideas, left a lasting impression on students.

Fourth grade student Davina shared her excitement, saying, “I love that the performer who wrote her own song and hyped up all the students with her energy!”

MHA fourth-grade teacher Elizabeth Negrete added, “My favorite was the jazz band’s rendition of ‘Rocky Mountain High.’” The performance had such an impact that her students were singing “Rocky Mountain High” all day the following day.

Fifth grade student Keanu added, “I enjoyed being at a concert with my friends,” highlighting how the field trip combined music appreciation with social connection.

The excitement didn’t stop at the concert hall. On the walk to lunch at Maggiano’s, students were singing praise songs together, reflecting the energy and joy they had experienced during the performance. Many bystanders commented on how well the students behaved. At the restaurant, students practiced dining etiquette lessons they had recently learned in class with Cindy Roldan, MHA’s director of Student Services, demonstrating both poise and courtesy.

Parents who joined the trip expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, and special thanks go to Jessica Gleason, MHA vice principal, for organizing the event.

Field trips like this one continue to enrich the Mile High Academy experience by combining cultural exposure, hands-on learning, and community building in ways that leave a lasting impression on students.

—Cindy Roldan is MHA Student Services director. Photos supplied.

Waleska Agramonte – Fort Morgan, Colorado … The Adventurers and Pathfinder Clubs from the Fort Morgan Seventh-day Adventist Church led outreach activities in their community, February 14-15.

They visited the Valley Nursing Home in Fort Morgan on February 14. “The club members made Valentine cards for the elderly, signed beautiful hymnals, prayed with them, and reminded them how special they are to Jesus. The residents were overjoyed, singing along and engaging with the children,” remarked Waleska Agramonte, the church’s Club Ministries director.

The club members went out to bless the homeless on February 15. They collected essential items such as socks, soap, and other necessities to share along with their prayers and encouragement.

“The children’s acts of kindness touched many hearts—some of the homeless were moved to tears,” reflected Agramonte. “The kids learned valuable lessons, including the importance of gratitude for the blessings we have and the calling to bless others just as Jesus blesses us every day.”

“We encourage all churches to involve their clubs and youth in outreach activities. There are many people in our community who need our love, our support, and most importantly, the message of Jesus.”

—Waleska Agramonte is the Club Ministries director for the Fort Morgan Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.

How Adventist Education Transforms Lives Across the Rocky Mountain Conference

Diane Harris – Denver, Colorado … Each year, the Mid-America Union Conference’s OUTLOOK magazine invites students from across the region to share their experiences through personal essays that reflect the heart of Adventist education. These authentic stories offer a window into how our schools shape faith, character, resilience and purpose. The following selections highlight just a few of the powerful voices from the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) whose journeys illustrate the profound mission of Adventist education and its enduring impact on students’ lives.

Across the Rocky Mountain Conference, students are experiencing Adventist education as more than academics. It is an environment that dignifies their stories, strengthens their faith, and calls them into purpose. Their voices reveal a truth we cannot ignore. When Christ is at the center, lives change.

For seventh grader Harper D., the impact was immediate. After hearing her friend describe her experience in public school, Harper realized what she had gained. “My teachers care, and they value you and your opinion,” she shares.

“They always help, no matter how busy they are.”

In a world where young people often feel unseen, Harper has found belonging and guidance.

At Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado, Lillian R. stepped into a spiritual transformation she didn’t expect. Leaving a public-school environment that had pulled her away from church, she discovered a community that brought her back to Jesus.

“I now see education as something that helps me grow spiritually and learn real things about life,” she writes. “I view devotion, prayer and my relationship with God as a gift.”

Then there is Max B., whose journey from skepticism to baptism began with one unexpected moment during Week of Prayer. “I felt like a weight had been lifted off of me,” he remembers. That moment changed the trajectory of his life.

“Adventist education helped me realize what I want to do with my life: lead others to Him.”

And beyond the classroom, Adventist education continues shaping lives. Luca L., a student who entered Youth Rush carrying “fear, anxiety and depression,” found God waiting for him at the door of a stranger’s home. After a long, discouraging day, his simple prayer was answered when he met a woman who spoke his language and bought every book he carried. “It wasn’t a coincidence,” he writes.

“God had prepared that door for me.”

Through friendships, worship, and one powerful encounter, Luca discovered that mission is not about numbers. It is about revealing God’s love to people who need it most.

These students’ stories converge into one resounding message. Adventist education empowers and shapes students’ lives through Christ-centered learning so they can influence the world and fulfill God’s eternal purpose. Supporting this mission means investing in students who are finding faith, courage, identity and hope. These lives are being transformed. Their future impact will be immeasurable.

—Diane Harris is the RMC Education superintendent. Republished with permission by OUTLOOK magazine from the February 8, 2026, feature story.  Photos supplied.

Jose Briones – Pagosa Springs, Colorado … Two congregations in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, gathered for a baptism service that emphasized unity in Christ and the strength of shared faith, February 7. The Pagosa Springs Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Group and the Pagosa Springs Seventh‑day Adventist Church came together to celebrate the baptism of Obed and Blanca Moreno. The service marked the first use of the church’s newly renewed baptistry, adding a meaningful layer to an already significant occasion.

The gathering opened with bilingual hymns sung in English and Spanish at the same time. The Seventh‑day Adventist Hymnal made this possible through its cross‑referenced guide that pairs Spanish and English selections, allowing both congregations to sing together seamlessly. Members from both groups joined their voices, creating a blended sound that many described as a glimpse of the unity believers look forward to in heaven. The music set the tone for the afternoon and reminded those present that no matter where people come from or what language they speak, they are united in Jesus.

The baptism of Obed and Blanca was a long time in the making. Their decision to publicly commit their lives to Christ brought joy to families, friends, and church members. For several years, both had been attending the Pagosa Springs Hispanic Group worship services, which is composed mostly of visitors and had only three baptized members among a regular Sabbath attendance of about twenty‑five. Their baptism represented meaningful growth for the group and encouraged many who have been praying for continued spiritual development within the congregation.

Irene Portillo, a leader within the Hispanic group, spoke about the importance of the day. She said, “We are so happy to have come together for this event. Seeing our small group grow by two more young people who want to be dedicated to God is an immense joy.”

Irene and her husband, Gamaliel, had been the only baptized members of the group living in Pagosa Springs until Saturday afternoon, which made the moment especially meaningful for them. Lemuel Ramirez, an elder with the Durango Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Group, also shared his appreciation for the occasion. He remarked on how grateful they are to see the mission in the western region continue to grow through the faithfulness of members who are committed to nurturing and expanding the work.

The joint service became more than a baptism—it served as a demonstration of unity, cooperation, and shared purpose of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Members from both congregations left with a renewed sense of connection and a deeper appreciation for what can happen when believers choose to worship together as one family in Christ.

—Jose Briones is the RMC Media and Content creator. Photos supplied.