Blog

Jose R. Alarcón – Aurora, Colorado … “I never imagined that a baby dedication at church—a moment to celebrate life, hope, and God’s promises—would become the setting for one of the most painful experiences of my life,” reflected Jose R. Alarcón, lead pastor at the Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Aurora, Colorado.

“Yet, in the middle of Sabbath worship, I suffered a serious break, a closed bimalleolar ankle fracture, that would immediately change my daily rhythm, my mobility, and my perspective,” he continued. “One moment, I was standing in God’s house. The next moment, I was on the floor in pain, surrounded by concern, prayers, and confusion. Emergency surgery followed, with the insertion of two plates on each side of my ankle.”

The church is not only where we celebrate victories, but where we carry one another through suffering. Guided by biblical principles, a group of medical professionals at the Aurora First Church decided to act: As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God (1 Peter 4:10, NAS). It was this chaos that prompted the Aurora First Church to form an Emergency Response Unit (ER Unit).

Led by Dr. Sheela Marvin, the ER Unit’s founder, the unit is divided into two teams: Team Alpha led by nurse practitioner (NP) Julieth Ombogo and Team Bravo led by registered nurse (RN) Zippy Obiero. Each team has eight assistants scheduled to serve on each Sabbath. Dr. Marvin, talking about the necessity of the ER Unit, expressed, “As a result of Pastor Alarcon’s accident, it was deemed necessary to put a team of healthcare professionals in place to offer first aid to church attendees who might face life-threatening or critical conditions during church services.”

With the establishment of the ER Unit, the church soon purchased an AED along with other first-aid and comprehensive trauma supplies. Ombogo, speaking about the role of the ER in a church, stated, “Having an emergency team in a church is vital. Emergencies happen anywhere, anytime, including in the church. Because church members have varied, uncoordinated approaches to helping, it often results in chaotic responses that do not help the emergency. Hence, having an ER team means we are prepared for the emergency.”

Obiero added, “Immediate action is always crucial in unexpected emergencies and crises. The ER Unit’s goal is to mitigate crises in an organized manner by providing temporary care until local emergency response services arrive.”

Dr. Lori Supit, Aurora First’s Health Ministries director and new ER Unit director, stated further, “ER teams? In a church? This is the first time I have seen this concept in action. As a health leader, I am passionate about caring for church members’ overall health in the best way possible. Having an ER Unit as part of the Health Ministry will help to ensure that those who attend services at the church will have immediate attention in a crisis, bridging the time gap between the onset of the accident and the arrival of emergency medical services.” Dr. Marvin also put together a training guide to enhance their services and is available to train other churches in forming an ER Unit.

“Jesus formed an ER unit consisting of His disciples. Jesus and His ER unit responded rapidly to crisis situations: Jairus’ daughter was resurrected as He was still speaking (Luke 8:49-55); they entered contaminated and unsafe spaces as they entertained the demon-possessed man (Mark 5:1-8 NAS); they were trained, deployed, and sent out as they were commissioned (Matthew 10:1, 7,8 NAS); and they offered immediate care and restoration to the paralytic (Mark 2:5-11 NAS),” noted Alarcón.

“Jesus did not first build an institution; He formed a mobile rescue unit. The church was never meant to be a waiting room; it was designed to be an emergency response team for a broken world,” he concluded.

—Jose R. Alarcón is lead pastor at Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied by the Aurora First ER Unit and Jose R. Alarcón.

Cindy Roldan – Greenwood Village, Colorado … Junior and senior students Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, recently participated in an interactive campus tour at AdventHealth University, where they explored academic programs in nursing, sonography, and radiography. Students engaged in hands-on labs, interacted with faculty and staff, and gained a firsthand look at what pursuing a career in health care can look like.

Senior student Roman C. described the experience as “fun, interactive, and informative,” while senior student Ayda M. shared that she especially enjoyed the hands-on lab experiences. Roger C., junior student, noted that the visit, “really helped solidify my desire to study medicine,” highlighting the value of seeing these programs in action.

MHA intentionally provides students with opportunities to visit college campuses whenever possible. Through academic trips connected to tournaments, music festivals, and planned college visits, students this year have explored Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska, Walla Walla University in College Place, Washington, and now AdventHealth University in Greenwood Village, Colorado. These experiences help students envision themselves in a college environment and better understand their academic and career options. Following this visit, several students are now considering AdventHealth University as a potential college choice.

RD Gallant, MHA chaplain, who accompanied the students on the visit, shared that he was, “impressed by the level of innovation and the advanced technology showcased throughout the campus and labs.”

“A special thank-you to Katie Shaw, Andrew Meredith, and Christian Ledesma for hosting our students and leading engaging presentations,” praised Cindy Roland, MHA director of Student Services. “It was also encouraging to see MHA alumnus Jazel McDaniel (Class of 2025) thriving on campus. We look forward to continuing to support our students as they finalize their college choices and prepare for the next step in their educational journey.”

—Cindy Roldan is Mile High Academy’s director of Student Services. Photos supplied.

Diane Harris – Lincoln, Nebraska … The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) continues to be blessed with school leaders who lead with purpose, humility, and steady commitment. Over the past several years, RMC principals have pursued academic excellence, spiritual growth, and professional development, and the impact is increasingly visible in the daily life of the schools—stronger collaboration, clearer communication, a healthier culture, and a shared commitment to helping every student flourish.

This year’s Mid America Union Conference (MAUC) Education Council, led by Carisa Carr, MAUC director of Education, February 2-5, reinforced what leaders have consistently practiced: schools thrive when leaders build trust, clarity, and shared ownership. These sessions featuring insights from Dr. Garth Larson, co-founder and CEO of First Educational Resources,* and Dr. Craig Carr, MAUC Ministerial and Evangelism director, gave principals language and tools to strengthen the work they are already doing to cultivate teams, support teachers, and sustain a mission-centered learning environment.

Dr. Garth Larson’s emphasis on vision and leadership “with and for clarity” resonated deeply with schools. Across the conference, leaders are seen working to reduce confusion and increase alignment by clarifying expectations, focusing on high-impact priorities, and supporting staff through transparent decision-making. The result is a growing sense of unity where teachers feel empowered, collaboration is purposeful, and students benefit from a more consistent learning experience.

Dr. Craig Carr’s focus on emotional intelligence also reflects what we see in RMC principals every day. These leaders are strengthening their ability to listen well, respond wisely under pressure, and lead with empathy and integrity. These skills are shaping school communities where relationships are valued, challenges are addressed constructively, and staff feel supported.

“What makes this journey especially meaningful is that it is not only professional but also spiritual,” remarked Diane Harris, RMC superintendent of Education. “Our principals are committed to leadership that reflects Christlike character: humility, service, encouragement, and faithfulness. Over time, this investment in both skill and spirit has strengthened our schools from the inside out.”

She continued, “We are grateful for the school leaders of the Rocky Mountain Conference who continue to learn, grow, and lead with dedication. Their consistent pursuit of academic, spiritual, and professional growth benefits our students, teachers, families, and the entire school community.”

* First Educational Resources is not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church nor the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

—Diane Haarris is the Rocky Mountain Conference superintendent of Education. Photos supplied.

The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) is pleased to welcome Marlene Poole [MP], the new Women’s Ministry director, as she steps into this important role of service and leadership. RMCNews [RMC] recently had the opportunity to meet with her in person and hear firsthand about her ministry background, what led her to this role, and her hopes for women across the Conference.

[RMC] You are currently in studies for ministry. Tell me about that.

[MP] Yes, I am two years into the pastoral ministry program at Andrews University for my Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM), and my focus for that has always been to excel in women’s ministries. They have really good studies for communicating with people, studying the Bible, and all the tools that I could use.

[RMC] You are doing your professional studies right now, but I believe you’ve had a long history in ministry in various capacities. What is your history with women’s ministries?

[MP] I couldn’t even tell you exactly how many years I’ve been in women’s ministries. I would say 9 to 10 years between helping plan retreats and serving on the leadership team for events and trainings throughout the Rocky Mountain Conference and sometimes on the North American Division (NAD) level.

I was working with DeeAnn Bragaw, NAD Women’s Ministries director, on the Passionate Leader Summit that was held in Denver last year and at the Adventist Ministries Convention in Kentucky this January. I have also completed the training for NAD’s EndItNow® Initiative on domestic violence at the Advocate level.

[RMC] What called you to women’s ministries? What pulled you to this ministry when there are other ministries out there?

[MP] I’ve always been interested in helping people on what I would call “the fringe.” For instance, the person in the corner who isn’t talking to anybody or the single mom who needs help and nobody seems to understand or newcomers to the church. I realized over time that I can be much more effective focusing on women. Men and women are different, and it’s easier for women to reach women. That is really what I have discovered.

And God led me to the Rocky Mountain Conference Women’s Ministries director at the time, who invited some ladies and myself to help on the leadership team and with training. I became really involved and realized what a joy it is to help women.

[RMC] Have you had any experiences that really validated this calling, or have you seen God’s hand in your ministry work?

[MP] Oh, definitely. I’ve been leading some women’s Bible studies for a number of years. It started as individual Bible studies, and then I realized there were so many that we should do a group Bible study together. Bringing together these ladies “on the fringe” into a community of women led to them going to church again, starting to read their Bibles again, and finding God. That community builds with just getting women together.

[RMC] Going into this new role, what do you plan to do in the ministry throughout the year?

[MP] We will be bringing back the RMC Women’s Ministries Retreat this year, and I also plan to travel to other women’s retreats in the conference. So, by all means, reach out to me. I’d love to come and visit and connect with people and help encourage them with their women’s ministries efforts at their local church.

I know that funds are tight to host events, but there are also ways to locally raise money to do women’s retreats, and I can be a good resource for ideas on fundraising. I want to encourage women to continue to reach the women in their community.

[RMC] So tell me more about the upcoming RMC Women’s Ministries Retreat. What can attendees look forward to?

[MP] We live in Colorado, Wyoming, and parts of New Mexico, so people love going to the mountains for retreat and revival. This year, we’re going to be going to the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, October 16-18. They have completely remodeled many of the buildings, and it really has a beautiful campus with great access to the outdoors. Plus, the buildings that we will be staying in will have elevators so everyone will have the opportunity to come and not worry about access.

Because we are staying at the YMCA, however, we will have to close registration on August 6, 2026. There will be a registration fee due at that time, so we encourage everyone to start planning now.

But they won’t want to miss our speakers this year’s event “Renewed in the Rockies.” We have DeeAnn Bragaw from the NAD and Donna Brown, our new Mid-America Union Women’s Ministry director. It will be great.

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength.
(Isaiah 40:31, KJV)

Be watching the announcement’s page at RMCSDA.org for more information on this year’s RMC Women’s Ministry Retreat “Renewed in the Rockies.”

* This content has been adapted from the original interview for length and format.

—RMCNews. Photos supplied and Pieter Damsteegt | North American Division.

Jessica Gleason and Karrie Meyers – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, proudly hosted its annual Middle School Robotics Tournament, February 1, welcoming seven teams from across the region for a full day of innovation and friendly competition. The event was held in partnership with FIRST LEGO League and Adventist Robotics, with sponsorship from the Mid-America Union Conference, the Rocky Mountain Conference, and MHA.

The tournament began with team registration, followed by robot design presentations, innovation project sharing, and judging. The live robot competition kicked off at 12:45 p.m., culminating in an awards ceremony that celebrated teamwork and creativity while showcasing engineering excellence.

Several teams were recognized for their outstanding performance:

• Core Values Award: Royal Robotics (Minnetonka Christian Academy, Minnesota)
• Innovation Award: Robostangs (MHA, Colorado)
• Robot Design Award: HMS Robo Squad (HMS Richards Adventist School, Colorado)
• Robot Performance Award: EnginEagles Green (Vista Ridge Academy, Colorado)
• Champions Award: EnginEagles Green (Vista Ridge Academy, Colorado)

The top two teams, EnginEagles Green and Royal Robotics, qualified to advance to the next level of competition, which will be held May 3 in Florida.

Students shared their enthusiasm for the experience throughout the day.

“I think we’ve done amazingly well, and I love to be part of this team,” said Bentley G., a seventh grader at MHA.

Joshua E., a sixth grader from HMS Richards, added, “My favorite part of the tournament is how they complete the missions.”

For Gali S., a fifth grader from HMS Richards, the event was about connection and teamwork. “My favorite part is seeing all the people and doing all the competitions with the team.”

MHA student Maddie M., a seventh grader, highlighted the design process, saying, “The best part of the MHA robot design is the square design because it just makes it a lot easier to do a lot more things.”

Jessica Gleason, MHA vice principal and the tournament event coordinator, emphasized the broader impact of robotics programs. “Being part of a robotics team teaches students far more than engineering skills,” Gleason said. “They learn collaboration, perseverance, problem-solving, and confidence. We truly enjoy welcoming these teams to our campus and seeing students support and learn from one another. Hosting this tournament is a highlight for our school, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back next year on February 7, 2027.”

—Jessica Gleason is the vice principal and Karrie Meyers Karrie Meyers is the marketing and development coordinator at Mile High Academy. Photos supplied by Jessica Gleason.

Ken Davis – Pueblo, Colorado … Bryan Choi, lead pastor at the Pueblo First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Pueblo, Colorado, announced at a men’s ministry meeting in the summer of 2025 a plan to reach the youth in the community.

The event, lasting eight evenings from November 3-9, was called “The Greatest Treasure Hunt.” Church members utilized various approaches for advertising the program through radio, on-line media, passing out and mass-mailing of invitation cards, and a church yard banner.

Volunteers worked to create a treasure hunting theme with stage and classroom props at the church, and there were Bible presentations based on the Amazing Adventure Bible Guides from Amazing Facts International.* There was consistent attendance of 15 to 20 kids per night.

“Not only were there captivating nightly presentations,” commented Ken Davis, an elder at Pueblo First Church, “but there were also sessions for crafts, games, refreshment, prayer room, and skits. At least eight individuals made the decision to receive Christ and be baptized from the event.”

* Please note that Amazing Facts International and its media and publications are not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists or the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

—Ken Davis is an elder at the Pueblo First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.

Deedee Franklin – Cortez, Colorado … During a period of about a month from December of 2025 through January of 2026, six current students, one former student, and two students’ parents at the Cortez Adventist Christian School (CACS) in Cortez, Colorado, were baptized or joined in membership the Cortez Seventh-day Adventist Church by profession of faith.

“Last spring, we had a Week of Prayer with Go Therefore Ministries* that really touched the school,” remarked DeeDee Franklin, the Cortez School principal. “Several students requested Bible studies and baptismal classes.”

As a result of the event, two students, Ayden and Grayson G., were baptized on December 20 at the Cortez Church. On January 17, two students, Snow and Kennedy B., were baptized and their sister, Creedence W., along with their parents, Danny and Katrina Davis, who joined the church by profession of faith. Alice H. was baptized, and her sister Angela, a former student, joined by profession of faith also on January 17.

“There is also one other parent currently doing Bible studies with the pastor. All three families involved were formerly non-Adventist. God is good!”

* Go Therefore Ministries is not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church or the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

—Deirdre (Deedee) Franklin is principal and teacher at the Cortez Adventist Christian School. Photos supplied.

Aome Angeles – Loveland, Colorado … Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, hosted a Scholar’s Brunch to highlight the academic accomplishments of high-achieving students, January 27.

In order to be invited to the brunch, a student had to have a GPA average over 3.5 or be a recipient of a special scholarship or be inducted into the National Honors Society (NHS). After a brief introduction, scholarships were announced and handed out to students, and the brunch followed. Special music was presented by students Sarah M., Izuchi N., and Denise M.

Afterwards, groups of Campion students were called up for photos to celebrate their high GPA, and the largest group was composed of 25 students with a GPA of 4.0 or above. Students can earn greater than a 4.0 by taking dual-credit college classes. More than half of the student body had a GPA of 3.5 or above, a remarkable feat.

Gerrad V., a sophomore student, shared, “I felt so glad that my classmates and I were recognized for all the hard work we put in this year.”

Before the NHA students were recognized, Jenny Gann, school nurse, spoke to remind everyone what true success is actually about. Following her speech, students were selected to speak about the four pillars of the National Honor Society. Marc W. spoke on scholarship, Addison G. spoke on service, Lilly R. spoke on leadership, and Charlie R. spoke on character. They lit the ceremonial candles representing each character trait.

Teagan P., a junior student, said, “I enjoyed seeing the scholarships given and the people who made them; it showed the community of Campion. I also enjoyed the seniors’ speeches. They were inspiring.”

Finally, the presentation of the cords took place in which fourteen seniors were officially inducted into the National Honor Society.

Kaleb Leeper, Campion’s principal, shared, “I was really proud of our many students who were recognized as scholars. I am impressed with the levels they have achieved whilst having a busy schedule.”

—Aome Angeles, Campion Academy Student News Team. Photos supplied.