NN April 2026

Abigail Brown – Oahu, Hawaii … Twenty-four students from Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, chose to spend their spring break serving others on a mission trip to Oahu, Hawaii, March 12-24. In the midst of a record-breaking rainstorm, they spent six full days working to improve the classrooms and grounds at Hawaiian Mission Academy and other Seventh-day Adventist elementary schools on the island.

When the group first arrived in Hawaii, they were met with unexpected weather conditions. A monsoon swept through the area, bringing heavy rain that made it difficult to explore Honolulu. Many shops were closed, and some areas experienced power outages.

Despite the rough start, the group enjoyed meaningful experiences together. They led a Sabbath worship service and shared a potluck meal at the Japanese Adventist church where they were staying. CA student Austin B. expressed, “The food was really good, and we had lots of noodles, rice, and I tried other foods that I had never had before.” Afterward, students went on a hike, where they saw the ocean and spent time fellowshipping with one another.

Although the rainy weather continued throughout the week, the group pushed through and continued their mission work on the island of Oahu. They served at an elementary school, completing projects such as painting, fixing the playground, assembling desks, and other needed improvements. They also helped lead out in school and church worship services throughout the week.

CA student Izuchi N. commented, “I grew so much spiritually working for others it was such a blessing.”

Originally, the mission trip had been planned for Cuba. However, due to concerns about the situation in the country, the trip was canceled. Fortunately, Michael and Jenny Gann, CA head men’s dean and nurse, respectively, worked to plan a last-minute trip to Oahu and were able to find many projects for the students.

“The mission trip was very exciting this year. God opened a door for us to go to Hawaii, and, when I first heard this, I was happy because I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii. It was fun to meet all of the different students from each of the schools and to have worship with them,” stated Marc W., CA student.

—Abigail Brown, Campion Academy Student News Team. Photos supplied.

Lisa Cardinal – Parker, Colorado … The answer is BRING A FRIEND – FEED 10,000 event at Newday Adventist Church in Parker, Colorado, where participants packed meals for 10,000 people in Honduras, March 28. Church members and their friends and neighbors excitedly joined together to divide 1,562 pounds of non-perishable food into bags that would each feed six people.

Multiple assembly lines were set up for the job, each with rice, soy-protein, dehydrated vegetables, a vitamin, seasoning powder, large funnel, plastic bags, scale, heat-sealer, and labels. Once filled, sealed, and labeled, bags were packed into boxes and taped.

With hairnets and plastic gloves in place, over one hundred of the participants ranging in age from 3 to over 60 years chose an assembly-line position. It was teamwork at its finest: fun and fast. The task was completed in less than the projected hour and a half.

Before leaving, all gathered and prayed over the boxes of packaged meals: “God, may these boxes reach their destination safely. May those who receive these meals also receive the love and joy packed into each one.” The boxes now await transport by railroad.

“In a world where uncertainty, chaos, and trauma seem to compound daily, doing good is a way of refusing to let those things have the last word,” remarked Lisa Cardinal, lead pastor at Newday. “The hour and half invested was multiplied in each of our hearts as we, along with our friends and neighbors, were blessed by the simple act of doing good together.”

—Lisa Cardinal is lead pastor at Newday Adventist Church. Photos by Kenneth Martinez and Jim Huenergardt.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, came alive March 6 with vibrant colors, meaningful traditions, and the rich diversity of its community during Cultural Celebration Day—the culminating event of Focus Week. This special week was led by Kenneth Martinez, associate pastor for Newday Adventist Church, who encouraged students to reflect on identity, faith, and the beauty of coming together as one community.

Students were invited to celebrate and represent their heritage by wearing traditional attire and bringing foods that reflect their culture. The result was a joyful and immersive experience filled with music, laughter, and the delicious aromas of cuisines from around the world.

Families also played an important role in the day’s success. Parents were invited to participate in the festivities by helping prepare and serve food, sharing meals together, and proudly joining their children in the Parade of Nations. The parade was a highlight of the day, as students and families walked together, showcasing the many cultures represented within the MHA community.

Students especially enjoyed the opportunity to express themselves in new and meaningful ways. Fourth graders Ashley and Davina shared that they “loved dressing up,” while Pennie said she enjoyed “eating food that I don’t normally eat.” One parent observed that younger students were particularly adventurous in trying new foods, while upper school students took pride in sharing dishes they had prepared themselves.

Staff members also contributed to the celebration by preparing and sharing food with the community. MHA art teacher Carolynn  Irby and her husband and pastor, Brian Irby—who have participated each year—reflected on the impact of the event, sharing, “This is a wonderful opportunity to share with one another!”

Cultural Celebration Day continues to be a meaningful tradition at MHA—one that not only highlights the diversity within the school but also strengthens the bonds of community, understanding, and appreciation for one another.

—Cindy Roland is Mile High Academy director of Student Services. Photos by Jessica Gleason.