NN March 2021 Page 2

18 Mar

CHURCH LEADERS PROVIDED MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING

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By Mickey Mallory – Denver, Colorado … Pastors, conference leaders, and church members joined via Zoom March 8–10 for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training sponsored by Centura Health.

The session was designed to equip spiritual leaders in RMC with relevant information that can be used to train members in their respective communities.

For some of the participants, this was a training they been awaiting. “I have often wondered how to be a good stepping-stone for a person in our community who is experiencing a mental health crisis and how to get them plugged in to professional care,” Mikey Archibique, Denver South’s associate pastor said. “This program was a big step forward for me as a pastor in learning how to communicate and support people experiencing mental health problems in my community.”

The need for training is clear according to Dr. Eric Shaddle, group vice-president of Mission Integration for Centura Health. “This training helps us understand [more clearly] that mental health is one important part of health. By training pastors to teach this course, we are equipping the most trusted members of society to teach MHFA classes that will help the people in their communities.”

The organizer of the training, Ashleigh Phillips, said, “It is my hope that classes will soon be provided to members and the communities where these individuals serve.” Phillips is the Provider for Outreach & Community Relations for Porter Adventist Hospital – Behavioral Health Services.

The training gave examples of the importance of compassion. “Going through a course like this broadens ones understanding and compassion for those who might struggle with mental health challenges,” said Jason Logan, Greeley church pastor.

Seth Day, co-pastor of LifeSource Adventist Fellowship echoed Logan’s comments. “The information presented was vital to me as a pastor working in the surrounding community where mental illness is prevalent.”

For others, this was one of the most important trainings they have received.  “MHFA Training is the most heart-filled, science-based, student-friendly program for bringing help, hope and recovery to people living with mental health problems I have ever attended,” said Evgeni Kovachev, pastor of Denver South church.

“It was an incredible training that we can’t wait to begin implementing in our department. We’re looking forward to also becoming trained instructors for Youth Mental Health First Aid,” Jessyka Dooley, RMC assistant youth director said.

Phillips, the Provider for Outreach & Community Relations for Porter Adventist Hospital – Behavioral Health Services, stated that “Centura Health wants to support Rocky Mountain Conference in bringing Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) classes to their members and communities to reduce mental health stigma, improve mental health, and save lives.”

–Mickey Mallory is RMC ministerial director; photo supplied

18 Mar

CAMPION STUDENTS: HOPE AND DOUBT DURING THE PANDEMIC

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By Jayce Treat – Loveland, Colorado … Voices filled the air, shoulders rubbed up against each other, friends linked arms and swayed back and forth–Hankin’s Hall was filled with students praising God. Before COVID, this was the everyday worship experience at Campion Academy.

Many students are asking how we can help each other connect to God through a mask. How can we show our love for each other from six feet away?

Milka Mendoza, a senior at Campion, felt it was especially hard being separated from her friends. “COVID has made it a lot harder to stay close with God. A big thing for me is being able to worship with my friends. Because we have had to be home a lot of the time, that has happened less this year.” Despite the circumstances, Milka has managed to stay positive. She explained, “Through this pandemic, I have felt God’s presence closer than ever. Why? Well, because despite everything that has been happening, He has still found a way to bless me and the people that I love. Waking up with good health is one of the biggest blessings.”

The pandemic aroused doubt in many people, including Jayden Anggormas, senior. “My spiritual life was affected a lot by this pandemic. There were a lot of problems and doubts because I was worried about how my life was going to turn out.” Jayden realized that he had to let go of his doubts and just trust God.

Jayden shared that he “started to notice others around me lose their faith because the in-person contact was gone. It was really tough, but I found it to also strengthen my faith. Despite the discouraging setbacks, it reminded me that God is stronger. He can work through situations that are even worse, and by keeping this close to my heart, I was able to become closer with Him.”

Teens may find themselves wondering where God is in the midst of the pandemic, but some have been able to use this time to gain a clearer vision of God’s kingdom. “It honestly feels a little difficult to understand why God has ‘allowed’ COVID to happen,” explained Mark Zelaya, senior.

“However, if the world was perfect, we wouldn’t look forward to heaven. I think that maybe God is allowing this to happen because He wants us to see how messed up and cruel the world is, and the sooner we accept that, the sooner we’ll want to be reunited with Him,” Mark commented.

Despite all the challenges, student are still experiencing God at Campion, and their relationship with Jesus continues to deepen.

–Jayce Treat, is a senior at Campion Academy; photo supplied

18 Mar

COMMENTARY: IS CANCEL CULTURE KNOCKING ON YOUR DOOR?

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By Ron Price* — My 105-year-old mother-in-law, who lives with my wife and me, has seen a few changes over her life span. As I near my 70th birthday, I can say the same for myself. Not all the changes I have seen would I consider favorable. This seems to be especially true of the rapid societal changes I see or hear about today. No doubt, some changes are necessary and positive, but I have a hard time accepting the “cancel culture” that seems to be so predominant on the news-–at least that’s what I hear.

So, since I want to fit in and not be an oddball, I thought I should give you seven reasons why you should cancel me, unfriend me, or simply unsubscribe from my email list.

I was born and raised in the Jewish faith. In this part of the country, it is safe to assume that you likely did not. Therefore, according to the prevailing custom, you and I must not have anything to do with each other. On the chance that you are Jewish, you must know that I am now a Christian and a follower of my Lord Jesus Christ, so feel free to write me off on those grounds.

Perhaps you, too, are a Christian, making you want to accept me back into your circle of acceptance. Before you do that, however, you might want to know that I am a member of the Seventh-day Adventist faith, so of course, unfriending is your only reasonable option.

I doubt there are many people left still reading this post, but I will continue, nonetheless. I describe myself as a moderate conservative in terms of my political leaning. While I am happy to dialogue with any who tend toward the more liberal or more conservative view of life, I realize that is simply not allowed today. So, while I will miss you, I fully understand that you no longer care to know what I have to say.

Still there? I have been married to the same woman for more than 40 years, and I believe that “marriage” is an institution for two people of opposite genders. I have no problem with civil unions and affording people equal rights based on lifestyles that do not infringe on other’s rights, but that view is not to be tolerated, so again, I wish you well.

Did I mention that I was born and remain a member of the Caucasian portion of the human race? I don’t like the term “white” because as I look at something that genuinely is white, it does not look like my skin tone. If I see you, I will still greet you as warmly as possible if your skin does not match mine, but I will accept the chance that you will not return in kind.

We all know that it is only permissible in today’s culture to associate with people who look like us, think like us, vote like us, believe like us, etc., so again I understand why you would want me out of your life. Well, at least I’m trying to understand, but to be honest, I’m having a hard time doing so.

I have some other thoughts to share on this matter, which I will plan to address next time. I guess it really won’t matter, though, will it? Since I am the only person on the planet with whom I can relate, I will be the only one who reads it. I sure hope I’m not too critical of what I write.

*Ron Price MA writes a regular column on www.RonPrice.com.  He is the owner/operator of Productive Outcomes, Inc., and has spent the last 30+ years as a mediator, helping people resolve their differences with others. He provides in-person and virtual training on a variety of life skills. He is a member of Piñon Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church in Farmington, New Mexico. For more information, visit www.RonPrice.com. To add your name to his weekly mailing list, please send him an email at Ron@RonPrice.com. Originally titled, “Seven Reasons Why You Should Unfriend Me,” the article is reprinted by permission.

17 Mar

A YEAR INTO THE PANDEMIC – HOW’S YOUR MENTAL WELLNESS?

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By Vanessa Alarcón, MSW, LCSW – Boulder, Colorado … Many of us have been forced to adapt to what many refer to as the “new normal”. We’ve added a face mask to our list of things needed before we head out the door. We are meeting new people while not having fully seen their entire face and haven’t fully seen the faces of some of our own loved ones in more than a year. Jokes about not finding toilet paper at the store have become somewhat funny again and, well, the list goes on. The adaptation you’ve felt is a result of the way God created us. We’ve been so fearfully and wonderfully made that we are able to combat all types of stress through the process of resiliency.

What I’d like to suggest to you today is that just because you may have adapted, doesn’t mean that you’re completely well. The absence of a mental health disorder does not equate to emotional health. While we have a bit more predictability from the past, it is wise to continue checking on a very important aspect of your health—your mental health.

Here are some suggestions from the National Institute of Health to improve emotional wellness:

  • Brighten your outlook – A sign of emotional wellness is being able to hold onto positive emotions longer and appreciate the good times. Give it a try!
  • Reduce stress – The better you can cope with stress, the easier you can bounce back from difficult moments in your life. Sometimes, this means reducing time watching the news or interacting with certain people.
  • Get quality sleep – Sleep helps you think more clearly, have quicker reflexes and focus more sharply. Take steps to make sure you regularly get a good night’s sleep.
  • Strengthen social connections – Our connections influence our biology and well-being. Now is the time to get creative in how we foster

And for those connected to a local church, you can benefit from belonging to a faith community as a protective factor in your wellness. A protective factor is a way that we reduce the effects of stressful life events. We serve an incredible God who shows us through Scripture His profound love and care for us. I’d encourage you to cling to the many promises found in His word as we continue to endure this pandemic, separately, but together.

If you are concerned about your mental health or the mental health of a loved one, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-2855.

—Vanessa Alarcón is a licensed clinical social worker in Denver, CO. She also serves as the Faith Engagement pastor at Boulder Church; photo by UnSplash

17 Mar

VRA STUDENTS DISPLAY VALUE OF SERVICE THROUGH SNOW SHOVELS

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RMCNews with Sandy Hodgson – Erie, Colorado … How does a school clear the sidewalks after a blizzard? They enlist the help of students, of course.

After the weekend blizzard dumped more than two feet of snow at Vista Ridge Academy, three students on spring break demonstrated the CHERISH value of service by helping their parents with snow removal.

The Barton family, including a kindergartener, 4th, and 7th graders are no strangers to exhibiting community service. Often, they assist their parents, who have been active volunteers for years at the school by clearing the parking lot of snow or helping with our Parent Community Association.

Sandy Hodgson, principal at Vista Ridge explains the service the children show: “Sometimes when you ‘have’ to help, it might be done begrudgingly, but these students are always ready to help with smiles on their faces. That is the true definition of service.”

–RMCNews with Sandy Hodgson who is the principal at Vista Ridge Academy; photos by Lisa Barton

16 Mar

MAKING HUEVOS RANCHEROS PART OF MHA SPANISH TEST

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By Amelia Eno – Highlands Ranch, Colorado… What is a better way to test student’s food vocabulary in Spanish class than having them practice at a restaurant where Spanish is primarily spoken? However, how do you do this when large groups are not welcomed at restaurants because of the pandemic.

This was the dilemma facing Christina Hernández, Mile High Academy Spanish teacher.

It was decided, after careful planning and discussion, that remaining on campus and having students cook the meal would be the safest way to test their vocabulary while also experiencing delicious fare.

With a plan in place, students voted to make huevos rancheros. Hernandez gathered the required ingredients: frijoles (beans), tostados, queso (cheese), salsa, huevos (eggs) and avocados to make the tasty meal and test their vocabulary skills.

Students used the ingredients to put together the perfect dish, while practicing their Spanish language skills. “Making our own eggs for huevos rancheros was super fun,” Noah Warner, MHA sophomore said.

Students enjoyed the creative approach to class as well as the food.

“The food was extraordinary, and I thoroughly enjoyed our cooking process,” Jaden McCottry, MHA sophomore said.

According to participating students, the Spanish classes have provided a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn a new language, which sometimes involves the bonus of being tasty.

–Amelia Eno is a sophomore at Mile High Academy; photos supplied

16 Mar

GLACIER VIEW RANCH MEMORIES WANTED

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By RMCNews – Ward, Colorado … Everyone has a story to tell, and Glacier View Ranch wants to hear your summer camp story, and more.

The RMC youth department is seeking to continue putting the puzzle together of GVR’s history. Ella Jean Albertsen, Campion church member, has been working hard to compile heaps of history about GVR which has been lost over the years through various transitions.

The history of GVR is important according Jessyka Dooley, assistant youth director, “This is something every youth director/camp director would love to do, but rarely has the time for. I’m in awe of her [Albertsen’s] passion for GVR over the years,” she commented.

Glacier View Ranch exists as a space for people to gather and to explore ideas, adventure in beautiful places, ignite passions, summit mountains and moments, engage in relationships and connect with God.

“The RMC youth team is always in awe as they hear the stories and memories treasured by those who have experienced GVR in all of its beauty,” Dooley said. “We are humbled by our past and how God has always carried us through. We are passionate about our future and where God will take us from here.”

Each memory holds a piece of the puzzle that is Glacier View Ranch from where it has been to where it is going.

The youth department is asking those who have information, stories, or photos about Glacier View Ranch to contact them via email. They are hoping to fill some gaps especially around the years 1950-1970. You can send your piece of the story to Ella Jean Albertsen, researcher for the project [email protected] and Jessyka Dooley [email protected]

–RMCNews; photos by Rajmund Dabrowski

16 Mar

COLORADO SPRINGS SOUTH CHOOSES ONE OF THEIR OWN TO HELP LEAD THEM

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RMCNews – Colorado Springs, Colorado… During a March 9 meeting with the Colorado Springs South church members, Eric Nelson, vice-president of administration for the Rocky Mountain Conference, presented the name of Lucas Lujan for their new part-time associate pastor. The church voted unanimously to accept the proposal.

Lujan, already a member of the congregation, is well-known and loved by many in the congregation and has been leading the church outreach ministry, Nelson commented.

“The last thing I could have seen myself doing in life was serving God in the church, but now, it seems, the only thing I want to do is serve God in the church,” Lujan said.

The congregation has supported Lujan through the years as he has experienced real-world issues, according to Nelson. “It has been very encouraging to me to see how the church has supported Lucas through the years as he has grown in his walk with the Lord,” he said.

“I’ve met and talked with Lucas and he has shared with me his journey with the Lord. It has been a thrill to see him grow in his desire to serve the Lord and [to see] his faithfulness. I look forward to his fulfilling this role and expect God will use him in a mighty way,” Nelson added.

Jack Bohannon, retired minister, commented on Lujan’s devotion to the church.  “Lucas Lujan and his wife, Asbury, are devoted to each other and are both hard workers in the church.”

Lujan is expanding his knowledge through the Lay Pastor training classes and is expected to begin serving as associate minister in March.

“If Christ is with me on this journey, I have every right to be confident in Him. I am telling the truth: I was a great sinner; however, He is a great Savior!” Lujan shared.

–RMCNews; photo supplied

16 Mar

BALLOONS AND CROWNS MARK 100 DAYS AT MHA

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By Karrie Meyers — Highlands Ranch, Colorado… In early March, kindergarteners at Mile High Academy celebrated their 100th day of school by coloring pictures, making craft items, playing with balloons, and enjoying some much-deserved time outside.

Typically, schools celebrate their 100th day of school to help the children understand numbers up to 100, making the number 100 more concrete for them. Some teachers use the number 100 as a way to teach place value. It’s a fun way to engage with mathematics, so that it’s more than just dry numbers.

While many schools celebrated their 100th day of school in early February, MHA students waited till March to mark the occasion because of a COVID outbreak earlier in the year and the decision to move to a four-day school week because of the pandemic.

The students enjoyed the celebration planned by their kindergarten teacher, Alissa Armendariz.

“The best thing we did was have a balloon party,” said Jack, MHA kindergartener.

Kaitlyn, another kindergartener, enjoyed making crowns while Blake said she “liked having the balloons.”

While the kindergarteners enjoyed the balloons, other classes celebrated with a read-a-thon and other events.

“It’s been a unique year to say the least,” said Jocelyn Aalborg, MHA’s vice president of finance and development. “However, we are thankful we could be together on campus to celebrate the 100th day of school.”

–Karrie Meyers is communication assistant at Mile High Academy; photos supplied

11 Mar

THE FUTURE LOOKS HOPEFUL

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By Eric Nelson – Denver, Colorado … In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted our region in a big way and during the ensuing year, life has changed drastically. The resulting impact and the accompanying angst have caused many to become anxious and discouraged and to feel isolated. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us of God’s plans to give us hope and a future. Our hope for the future is not just in a more normal existence, but in a wonderful walk with Him in this life and an eternity spent with him.

In recent weeks, hopeful signs indicating a decrease in restrictions and a lessening of the impact of the pandemic within the Rocky Mountain Conference are beginning to emerge.

On March 2, Colorado Governor Jared Polis stated that he was looking forward to a “more normal” summer, and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced that his state will remove its statewide mask requirement and resume normal operations on March 16. This decision reflects the state’s continually-improving health metrics and is consistent with the governor’s approach of balancing public health with protecting livelihoods. We view these measures as hopeful signs that many of the restrictions may be lessening and our lives returning to a “more normal” state in the near future.

Within the Rocky Mountain Conference, steps are being taken to re-open several events that were put on hold this past year. We look forward to the re-opening of camp meetings, Town Hall meetings, in-person church events, and summer camp.  These events are currently in the planning process and we are very hopeful that they will occur even if in an altered state.

Out of an abundance of caution, we will continue to encourage the practice of safety measures until our communities and states indicate it is no longer necessary. We are, however, anticipating a lessening of restrictions within the near future.

In the meantime, stay connected with each other, stay connected to God and stay connected to your church family.

–Eric Nelson is RMC Vice-President for administration; photo by Rajmund Dabrowski

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