Stories & Commentaries

About Stories & Commentaries

From time to time, the North American Division shares commentaries on issues and/or events important to Adventists in this division. We also publish stories, which sometimes include interviews and features, to inspire our leaders and members.

stock photo camp counselor

Calling All Church Members to Evangelism and Mission

Collaboration is not only a buzzword these days, but it is also a necessity to a successful ministry in today’s world. We live in a world with many challenges, where everyone is looking to see how the church will respond. The truth is that community problems and issues are far too complex for any church, agency, or organization to tackle alone. It is imperative that the church work in partnership with others in bringing solutions to the issues the communities we serve are facing.

Russian-American congregation pastor

A Diverse Church Family Unites at the Russian-American Church

In Glendale, California, SCC’s Russian-American congregation of almost 100 members is embracing community and unity amid these especially challenging times. Within this diverse church family exists 15 nationalities, including Russian, Ukrainian, Armenian, Georgian, Belarusian, and more, worshiping together each week.

LifeTalk kids stock photo

LifeTalk Radio Launches Dedicated Channel for Children

​​​​​​​For the past 30 years, LifeTalk Radio has been a powerful and practical resource helping to change hearts by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and connecting people with Christ. Kimberly Luste Maran, an associate director of the North American Division Office of Communication, recently talked with LifeTalk Radio manager and director John Geli about the station’s launch of a children’s streaming channel.

BAA students drawing

Tips on How to Talk to Children About the War in Ukraine

“Don’t worry, it is on the other side of the world. It doesn’t affect you. Don’t think about it. Don’t worry about it.” Are these the best answers you can give your child when talking about the war in Ukraine? Absolutely not. This is the subject of news sources worldwide and is the topic of conversations everywhere. Children are asking about this war. How does one talk to their child about such a dreadful global event?

Alex Bryant, NAD president during YEM 2021 sermon

More Than a Denomination

All through the Bible we see evidence in which God has used people to do His bidding and to carry His message. The Seventh-day Adventist Church is no different. And we are more than a denomination. We are a prophetic movement.

stock photo two women walking path

Being Restored

The human brain is the most complex organ of our bodies, and some say the most complex structure in the known universe. Today we are facing seemingly insurmountable issues with other conditions that involve brain function. Through our mental health initiative, Adventist HealthyYOU: Restored, NAD Health Ministries is embracing the processes that God uses for the renewing of our minds.

stock photo of African American family

Perspectives on the African American Family

We are all members of a family. Whether it is a traditional nuclear family, blended, extended, single-parent, or adopted, we hold a connection. And while many similarities may exist, every family is unique with its own combination of strengths and weaknesses.

Rocky Twyman

A Passion for Prayer and Public Relations

Rockefeller Ludwig Twyman, known to many as “Rocky,” was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and currently lives in Rockville, Maryland. A public relations consultant, Twyman describes what he does this way: “I bring about positive stories, promote positive stories about churches and social organizations in the media.” In addition to this role, Twyman is an accomplished musician and choir director, activist, and prayer warrior.

stock photo Asian woman listening to podcast

Lives Changed Through Listening

Back when I was operating a college radio station, a caller said he appreciated the music and message on the radio station one particular evening. He went on to describe how he had been contemplating suicide, even coming to the point of deciding to end his life—that evening. But just before doing so, something grabbed his attention. As he listened to the radio, the power of the music and the message spoke to his heart and altered his decision. He called the radio station to tell me about it. That was a life-changing experience for me.

Nathaniel Sevilla with Cruise With a Mission 2021 group

When God Stirs Something in Us

In December, the Center for Youth Evangelism hosted the 2021 Cruise With a Mission to Mexico. This is a trip for young adults that combines vacation with mission trip to provide a unique experience that is like no other. Here, Cruise with a Mission director Nathaniel Sevilla gives a personal account of the 2021 cruise.