Adventist News

  • SAC Group Award-Winning Communicators Represent Mid-America at SAC

    The Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) celebrated excellence in various communication related fields during its annual awards banquet, recognizing Adventist communicators and students from across the North America Division. Several individuals from the Mid-America Union Conference territory were honored for their significant contributions to communication ministry. Mid-America Union Honorees Jodi Dossenko, communication director for the Dakota Conference, received first place in the Professional Campaign Design category. This marks the first time a local conference in the Mid-America Union has won first place in this category. Her recognized work, Dakota Adventist Academy Today: A Comprehensive Picture, was created to help delegates clearly understand the academy’s situation ahead of a major vote. As a one-person communication department, Dossenko collaborated closely with conference leadership managing design, messaging, and strategy across print and digital platforms. “It was an honor to have Dakota Adventist Academy Today: A Comprehensive Picture recognized at SAC,” Dossenko said. “This project was created to give delegates a clear and thorough understanding of the academy’s situation ahead of a difficult vote, and our team worked through many revisions to handle it carefully. I’m grateful for leadership that allowed the time to do the work thoughtfully and in a way that honored our mission.” Campaign entries were evaluated on clarity, strategy, resource management, and creative direction. Savannah Carlson, communication and human resources director for the Minnesota Conference, earned an honorable mention for Long-form Feature Writing. Long-form submissions must be between 501 and 2,500 words and are judged on clarity, organization, reader engagement, relevance, and originality. Carlson serves as a single-person communication office supporting multiple ministries and departments across Minnesota, and her article highlighted Maplewood Academy during a challenging season. “Submitting work for review is always nerve-wracking, especially when the topic is as complex and close to the heart as our Maplewood Academy story,” Carlson said. “I’m both humbled and pleasantly surprised that our piece received an honorable mention — a small affirmation that honesty and hope can coexist, even in difficult seasons.” She also celebrated Dossenko’s award, noting that her thoughtful work encourages transparent communication and trust in God’s leading. Union Adventist University student Seth Coe also earned an honorable mention in Long-form Feature Writing, representing the next generation of communicators who are preparing to contribute to the church and community through media and ministry-focused storytelling. Strengthening Communication Across the Territory Mid-America Union communication director Hugh Davis expressed gratitude for the recognition given to communicators in the territory. “It is good to see the work recognized, because communication ministries work so hard throughout the year and then move quickly to the next project,” Davis said. “When done well, communication can have a significant impact, especially on projects like the Dakota campaign that helped constituents make a tough decision.” He added that recognition encourages communicators who often work with limited staff resources. “The award helps create value and appreciation for the dedicated work that was done by the individuals from our territory who were honored,” he shared. Davis also emphasized that attendance at SAC is made possible through strong partnership across the territory. “We are grateful for the support of our local conference administrations and university leadership,” he said. “They make it possible for their communicators and students to attend, and we gladly come alongside them with additional support. Mid-America Union proudly invests in professional growth, and when we work together, we strengthen communication across our territory. This partnership helps our communicators continue developing their skills and connecting with peers who share this ministry calling.” About SAC and the Awards SAC supports Christian communicators through training, networking, and spiritual encouragement. Its mission is to nurture the professional growth of communicators in a spiritual and social environment, and its vision is to strengthen a global network of leaders committed to communication excellence. The organization values communication as a holy calling, integrity, collaboration, diversity, and respect across all media roles and platforms. Through events like this awards program, SAC continues to inspire communicators, from students to single-person conference offices, to use their gifts to advance mission-driven communication and share messages of faith and hope. The next SAC convention will take place October 15–17, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. Those interested in attending or learning more about the convention and awards can visit:https://www.adventistcommunicator.com/ or subscribe to the newsletter here.  

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  • Central States Conference Ordains Two Pastors in Kansas City Pastor Gregory Fontus, Sr. and Pastor Elijah Johnson

    “A Word Called Favor” — Pastor Gregory Fontus, Sr. Pastor Gregory Fontus, senior pastor of Beacon Light Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kansas City, Missouri, described his ordination in a single word: favor. “When I reflect on my journey toward ordination, the one word that comes to mind is favor,” Fontus said. “Over the past four years, I have seen the unmistakable hand of God moving in my life, in my family, and in my church.” When he first arrived in the Central States Conference in June 2021, Fontus recalled coming with his wife and their nine-month-old daughter. Today, that daughter is about to turn five, and the family has grown to include a three-year-old son. “God has not only expanded our family,” he shared, “but He has faithfully guided us every step of the way—growing us spiritually, emotionally, and in our understanding of what it means to serve Him.” At Beacon Light Church, Fontus has also seen God’s favor in tangible ways. Under his leadership, the congregation has renovated 75% of its building debt-free, increased youth and young adult engagement, strengthened community outreach, and witnessed more than 40 baptisms and professions of faith. “There is a renewed energy and excitement among our members,” he said. “It is nothing more than a testament to the favor that only God could have orchestrated.” Fontus described ordination as the church’s public recognition of a call that God had already placed on his life. As a second-career pastor, with more than a decade of experience in higher education and the corporate world before ministry, answering God’s call required a leap of faith. “God has led me every step of the way,” Fontus said. “Ordination serves as a confirmation that He has indeed called, equipped, and been with me in this season.” Looking ahead, Fontus said the moment grounds him more deeply in God’s grace and renews his commitment to serve with integrity. “I don’t take this mantle lightly because I carry it with gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to do all that God has called me to do,” he said. “I’m looking forward to what God will do for me and through me.” “Saying Yes Again” — Pastor Elijah Johnson For Pastor Elijah Johnson, known to many as “Pastor EJ,” ordination was more than a ceremonial milestone. He called it a holy “yes” that has echoed through the years of his walk with God. “On August 2, 2025, I stepped into a sacred milestone—ordination into gospel ministry,” he said. “Yet, more than a ceremony, it felt like a holy ‘yes’ echoing through the years.” Johnson’s ministry began with music. As a student at Oakwood University, he believed the only way God could use him was through song. Worship leading, he thought, was his highest calling. But God had other plans. “He revealed there was more He had ordained me to be,” Johnson reflected. “That was the moment I accepted the call to pastoral ministry.” Since then, Johnson has embraced preaching, evangelism, Bible study leadership, and even creative tools such as graphic design to reach people for Christ. Quoting Jeremiah 1:5, Johnson said he came to understand that God’s call on his life was established long before he was born: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I consecrated you.” His journey also included God’s provision in his personal life. In 2019, while hosting Bible studies, Johnson met his future wife, Chevelle. They married in 2020 and now serve together as a ministry team in Iowa, leading the Philadelphia SDA Church in Des Moines and New Life Christian Ministry in Waterloo. When the day of ordination arrived, Johnson admitted he thought of the times he wanted to run from the call. Yet he testified that God’s grace sustained him through doubt and fear. “Standing alongside my brother Greg Fontus in ordination, I realized the moment was more than recognition of ministry,” he said. “It was a testimony of grace—the grace that called, carried, and continues to mold us.” For Johnson, ordination was also a chance to recommit: “So I say: This is what grace looks like. And with a grateful heart, I say ‘yes’ again to the next season God has already prepared.” A Testimony of Grace Through their words, both Fontus and Johnson pointed not to themselves but to God’s favor and grace as the foundation of their ministry.   View images from their ordination service here.

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  • Versacare Announces Solutions for Adventist Journalism Grant

    Versacare Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of a new grant initiative supporting journalism within the Seventh-day Adventist denomination. The Journalism for Adventist Solutions (JAS) grant aims to promote ethical reporting and diverse storytelling by encouraging integrity, creativity, and journalistic excellence through targeted grant funding.  Versacare Foundation president Thomas K. Macomber says of this grant: “We are pleased to launch the new Journalism for Adventist Solutions grant to empower thoughtful, principled journalism within the Adventist community. Our intent is that this initiative will inspire, enhance and encourage ethical journalism within the denomination.”  The Versacare Foundation JAS fund operates under the guidance of a designated committee chaired by Jim Walters and vice chaired by Charles Sandefur. Other committee members include Ezrica Bennett, Garrett Caldwell, Alva James-Johnson and Ray Tetz. JAS committee chair Walters explains: “This initiative aims to foster responsible, solutions-oriented church journalism, luring the hundreds of church communicators from mere best practices to advanced practices.”  Timeline  The JAS application is scheduled to launch January 1, 2026, with submissions open year-round, and funds awarded annually each July and January.   Eligibility  Qualified 501(c)(3) organizations headquartered in North America in the following categories: Seventh-day Adventist publications, Seventh-day Adventist universities and academies, independent organizations supporting or reporting on issues affecting the Seventh-day Adventist church.  Grant Range  Grants will be awarded in the range of $5,000 – $15,000.  Use of Funds  JAS grants will fund educational coursework, competitive journalistic story grants, workshops, collaborative projects, and assessment.   Reporting  A report on use of funds will be required within a reasonable time after the grant award. Applications open January 1, 2026.  About Versacare Foundation  Versacare Foundation is an independent private foundation which funds grants for programs and projects that are consistent with its mission and with the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. A self-funded lay organization, it is comprised of both lay Adventists and present and former Adventist Church employees. Since 1990 it has awarded 2,471 grants totaling over $39,000,000.   For More Information  Program Director: Kelly Jackson Daugherty, 951.343.5800, kelly@versacare.org  President/CEO: Thomas K. Macomber, 602.421.6589, tkmacomber@versacare.org  Journalism for Adventist Solutions Committee Chair: Jim Walters, 909.518.8879, jwalters@llu.edu  Versacare Foundation, 25745 Barton Rd, Suite 515, Loma Linda, CA 92354   951.343.5800 • www.versacare.org 

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  • New Free Online Writing Course A free online writing resource is now available for aspiring children’s story writers.

    Many readers are familiar with Guide, the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s weekly magazine for ages 10-14—and sometimes older! Always in search of true stories, Guide has created a way to help students hone their writing skills. The free online Young Writers Course reveals crucial writing elements that engage today’s younger readers.  Check out a sample of the Young Writers Online Course at GuideMagazine.org/youngwriters.  Appropriate for middle school through high school levels (and some beginning college levels) the course is based on the book How to Write True Character-Building Stories for Kids by Guide editor Randy Fishell. The course includes simple quizzes, with a more comprehensive test available for download. Writers whose stories are accepted for publication in Guide will be paid. Stories not accepted may still be submitted for possible online publication. There is also a very active young writers online community at the Guide website. Look for the complete course on the home page at GuideMagazine.org. (You’ll need to create an account.) If you have any questions, please contact Guide at guide.magazine@pacificpress.com.   See a Guide sample issue HERE.    

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Blogs

  • The Teacher’s Notes–Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb, Lesson 8 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2025 4Q, "Lessons of Faith From Joshua"

    Sabbath School Lesson for November 14-21, 2025 Introduction of Lesson 8, Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb Memory Text: “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7 ESV As fallen human beings, we naturally are drawn to do the things we shouldn’t do, things that are not best for us or those around us. It’s easy then to see why children need good examples and role models during their growing-up years. But that need doesn’t end when we reach adulthood. We all need worthy people we can follow, in all stages of life. The author of Hebrews suggests that we follow strong, religious leaders, and adopt their way of life for ourselves. Caleb and Joshua were such leaders of faith for the Israelites. Both well into their seventies and eighties by the time they entered Canaan, they continued to be outstanding, spiritual guides for their countrymen, and even for all of us down through the ages who have observed and appreciated their humble, faithful life choices. Sunday: Faithfulness Monday: Give Me This Hill Country Tuesday: The Power of Example Wednesday: Humble Hero Thursday: Changed by Contemplation Sunday: Faithfulness The Hebrew word for “Caleb” is “keleb”, or dog, a word that is always used in a negative sense in the Old Testament, even though we today admire a dog’s faithfulness to its master. Caleb’s father was Jephunneh, who was a Kenizzite (Joshua 14:14). This is interesting because the Kenizzites belonged to one of the pagan tribes Abram was told would be driven out of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21). Evidently, Jephunneh had been been integrated into the tribe of Judah, most likely over generations. Two other examples of this type of recognized integration were Ruth the Moabitess and Rahab of Jericho. Caleb’s original, outspoken report on the land “flowing with milk and honey” was not only filled with faith, but with courage. The congregation had been so angry with Joshua and Caleb that the two were almost stoned to death (Numbers 14:10). But, because of this early act of courageous faith by two of the twelve spies, we only remember the names of Joshua and Caleb. The names of the other ten have been all but forgotten by God’s people (Numbers 13:4-15). Verses and questions: Numbers 13:6, 30-32, Joshua 14:6-10 Caleb was forty years old when he was a spy under Moses, then wandered in the wilderness for forty years. How was it that he was eighty-five when given his inheritance? What happened during those additional five years? Monday: Give Me This Hill Country Two verses tell us that Caleb “wholly followed the Lord God of Israel” (Joshua 14:9, 14). Because of the “different spirit” Caleb possessed, Moses promised him an inheritance when they would finally occupy Canaan (Numbers 14:24). At the beginning of the land divisions in Canaan, Caleb boldly came before Joshua, God’s chosen leader to replace Moses, and reminded him of this promise. It should come to no surprise that he chose Hebron, a hill country that had giants of Anakim residing there (Joshua 14:12). One of the most well-known Anakites was, of course, 9.5 ft. (2.9 meters)-tall Goliath, whom David later bravely killed. At eighty-five years old, Caleb still had the faith to believe that God had the power to conquer and possess such a difficult area of Canaan. His thoughtful choice would surely serve as a model for the other tribes, when they faced similar tough challenges. Verses and questions: Joshua 14:6-14 What caused Caleb to choose the hilly countryside of Hebron, obviously not the most fertile land he could have chosen? What do these verses tell us about Caleb’s personality and degree of faith? Luke 6:45 How important are the words we speak? Tuesday: The Power of Example We see much of the same boldness and faithfulness of Caleb in at least two of his relatives. His nephew Othniel took up the challenge to defeat one of the city-tribes, after Caleb had rousted out three others. In exchange for this effort, Caleb had promised his daughter Achsah in marriage. Achsah must have been an outspoken lady as well. She not only procured land from her father with this exchange, but she persuaded him to give her and Othniel springs of water to go with it. Later we read in Judges 3:7-11 that Othniel became a judge and deliverer of Israel. After many Israelites had fallen into idolatry with their neighbors, Othniel defeated their pagan enemies, allowing God’s people to have forty years of freedom to serve God in peace. We, too, can claim the promises of God by persistently asking for them. We are reminded of the widow in one of Jesus’ parables, who was granted her request when she repeatedly asked a judge for justice against her enemy (Luke 18:1-5). Verses and questions: Joshua 15:16-19 How had Caleb’s nephew and daughter followed Caleb’s example of faithful courage? Judges 3:7-11 How did Othniel later show himself like his uncle Caleb? Why is it good to remember that we influence, not just our own children, but the children of others as well? Whose children might you be an influence in your life? Wednesday: Humble Hero Caleb was given one of the first pieces of land when the divisions began. He used his choice to show the Israelites that they could conquer those giants they had been told earlier to fear. Joshua’s later choice of land to inherit, given at the end of their land divisions, showed his humility. He also chose land that would be difficult to rebuild, but was near Shiloh, the place where God’s sanctuary had been placed. The town Joshua chose to settle in was Timnath-serah, a name that implied something leftover. Yes, Joshua showed humility in his choice. He would be happy to take the leftovers in the beautiful land of Canaan. And what no doubt made this choice most attractive to him was its closeness to <a class="cat-post-excerpt-more" href="https://www.outlookmag.org/the-teachers-notes-giants-of-faith-joshua-and-caleb-lesson-8/" title="Continue reading The Teacher’s Notes–Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb, Lesson 8 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2025 4Q, “Lessons of Faith From Joshua”“>Read more…

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  • Say No To Holiday Weight Gain-5 Simple Tricks Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

    During the Holiday  Season people over eat and gain weight.  This video provides very simple steps to prevent Holiday weight gain. You can enjoy family and friends without packing on the extra pounds. https://youtube.com/shorts/m8u3Qsi2o8c?si=Zo7AVvWczQPDlWCC

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  • An oil-painting–style image showing several of Jesus’ disciples laughing and relaxing together in a wooden boat at dusk, with warm golden light on the water and distant hills. The mood is peaceful and joyful as they reflect on the miracle of feeding the 5,000. #SabbathSlowdown: After Tragedy, Expect Miracles

    The men felt the exhaustion closing in, but it waited on the edge of their excitement. Though night had fallen and they’d left the bustle of the crowd behind, the soft lap of waves against the wooden boat hull did little to calm their busy spirits. They’d spent the afternoon stepping back in time, walking alongside prophet miracles and sitting at the feet of the Messiah—their friend, Jesus. “Did you see people carrying food back home with them?” one man chuckled to himself, awe rising in his voice. “And those that were carried, those who were ill, the mute and deaf from birth—none left with their ailments! He healed them all!” another half shouted-half laughed. One man lay against the hard wood of the boat, clutching his abdomen, “I wish he were here now to heal my ailment,” he groaned, to the others’ laughter. “I guess when Jesus said he’d make us ‘fishers of men’ he didn’t expect we’d be sea sick!” Simon Peter mused. “Did you see the little boy again? The one who brought the little lunch basket?” “No. I didn’t see him leave. Why?” “It was like—he was—it’s like he was glowing. He was happy, yes. He was blessed to help feed the group. He probably felt special, yes, but he was glowing, like angels put the smile on his face and walked alongside him.” “Wow.” Simon sighed and laid back against a sack of supplies. Looking up at the sky, he settled into the silence of the night. The energy of the day had followed them onto the boat when Jesus urged them to leave him alone. It clung to them as they paddled through the water, singing and laughing together. It hummed between them as they each recalled the day in silence, seeing miracles in their minds, recalling their Teacher and His words.   What we often forget about this story is that it didn’t start with a miracle. It started with a tragedy. John the Baptist, cousin of Jesus and mentor to many of Jesus’ disciples, had recently been killed. They didn’t set out to perform miracles that day. In fact, Jesus had retreated for some time alone, but the mission followed Him. Like Jesus, it is often our first inclination to retreat when faced with tragedy, trauma, and difficulty, but God can use even these moments to minister. Do you believe it? Father in Heaven, Our world is not okay. We have children murdering children, families broken and hurting, abuse of every kind in our communities, and vast divides from one person to another. We know it wasn’t meant to be this way, and only You can reconcile this world. We trust You to do it in Your time, but please show us how to do our part. Help us to show someone love who needs it, forgive where difficult, and share the free gift of salvation with others at every opportunity. Help us to not be spectators only, but hands and feet, carrying baskets of miracles to a crowd in need—just like the disciples. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.  Read from the Gospel Matthew 14  

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  • The Teacher’s Notes–Ultimate Loyalty: Worship in a War Zone, Lesson 7 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2025 4Q, "Lessons of Faith From Joshua"

    Sabbath School Lesson for November 8-14, 2025 Introduction of Lesson 7, Ultimate Loyalty: Worship in a War Zone Memory Text: ” ‘But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.’ ” Matthew 6:33 ESV As they entered the Promised Land of Canaan, God gave Joshua instructions on how to manage their excitement, including their fears and anxieties. By participating in simple, sacred rituals, they would be calmed and strengthened for whatever lie ahead. Rededicating themselves to the Lord kept their focus on the One who had always proved worthy of their respect and loyalty in the past. The religious practices Joshua led them to observe must have seemed irrational to them at the time. Circumcising themselves while on enemy soil, celebrating the Passover when time was running out, and stopping to build altars and set up the tabernacle in the middle of their conquest seemed foolish indeed. It required an enormous trust and faith in God, who was speaking through Joshua. Jesus called for similar acts of faith, admonishing us to seek God first in all our endeavors. He fulfills His part of the covenant by adding those things we need for success. Sunday: Covenant First Monday: Passover Tuesday: Altars of Renewal Wednesday: Written on Stones Thursday: Longing for His Presence Sunday: Covenant First What faith it must have taken for the Hebrew males to listen to Joshua’s instruction to circumcise themselves, an important sign of their covenant with God. Instead of preparing themselves for battle, this long-neglected practice would render the army vulnerable for at least three days. Regardless of this vulnerability, it was important that they act on it together, to confirm their shared identity. There are several ideas as to why the ritual had not been practiced during their forty-year wilderness journey. Perhaps it was not safe for infants to be circumcised, traveling in such a harsh environment. Or many think God suspended it as He was so displeased with their past unfaithfulness and refusal to enter Canaan. This new opportunity to show their faith through circumcision was welcomed though by the new generation about to enter the land promised to their forefathers. They all willingly complied out of gratitude to the One who would soon save them from their enemies. Verses and questions: Joshua 5:1-7 How would circumcision at this time have cemented their covenant relationship with their Creator? What kind of rituals today, such as baptism, help us identify as Christians? Matthew 6:33 How do we keep God first in our lives? Why is important for us to daily renew our covenant with the Lord? And how can we do it? Monday: Passover The time for celebration of Passover fell during the conquest of Canaan. It was important that they remember the first Passover that marked their redemption from Egyptian bondage. So, Joshua insisted they pause their battle plans and use the time to reflect on what God had done for them in the past, and what He could and would do for them in the future. Similarly, Christ replaced the Passover with a celebration of the Last Supper, known as our Communion service, in order to keep our minds on Christ’s death on the cross (Matthew 26:26-28, in the past), and on the marriage supper of the Lamb in heaven (Revelation 19:9, in the future). Someday, the saved will find themselves walking on a sea of glass, reminiscent of the Red Sea and Jordan River experiences (Revelation 15:2). We, too, should use every opportunity now to celebrate our amazing salvation and future, eternal home in heaven. Verses and questions: Joshua 5:10, Leviticus 23:5, and Deuteronomy 16:6 How would the Passover have been a comforting ritual during this difficult time of peril for God’s children? What kind of freedom from bondage did they have to look forward to as they were about to occupy Canaan? What kind of freedom do we enjoy now when we focus on worshiping God? Tuesday: Altars of Renewal Patriarchs of the Old Testament were told to build altars of stone, lasting monuments that served as reminders of their covenant with God. Those who later encountered such altars were encouraged to worship there, meditate on their significance, and share the stories of faith they represented with all who would listen. The purpose of altars they built for God’s worship were different from those of their pagan neighbors. They were not built in order to please, or win favor with, an angry deity. Instead they were meant to create a place for solemn contemplation and prayer, a quiet place to renew their covenant ties with their loving Creator. Joshua, and Moses before him, recognized the potential of these altars, and even instructed God’s people to build new ones, as they entered and began to occupy Canaan. These monuments served as tools of renewal, reminding them to obey God and keep their relationship with Him and each other strong. Verses and questions: Joshua 8:30, 31 and Deuteronomy 27:2-10 What made this altar a reminder to obey God? Why did Moses, and later Joshua, feel the need for such an altar at this time and place? Wednesday: Written on Stones Shortly after the Israelites had entered Canaan, Joshua instructed them to build an altar of large, whitewashed stones, as Moses had earlier depicted. This one was distinct, however, because the entire Book of the law of Moses, was to be written on the stones, a permanent place for them to reside. This altar was to be located between two mountains in Samaria, Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim. Half of the tribes would stand on each side of the monument, each group facing a different mountain, which represented both the blessings and curses of keeping or disobeying God’s law. It was a choice that was always before them, one which held either good or bad consequences. Everything written on the stones was recited in front of the Hebrew tribes. This solemn ceremony was not only <a class="cat-post-excerpt-more" href="https://www.outlookmag.org/the-teachers-notes-ultimate-loyalty-worship-in-a-war-zone-lesson-7/" title="Continue reading The Teacher’s Notes–Ultimate Loyalty: Worship in a War Zone, Lesson 7 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2025 4Q, “Lessons of Faith From Joshua”“>Read more…

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