October 17 Communiqué

Posted on October 16, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family!

Who is my neighbor?”

I was recently listening to a commercial that mentioned how focused we have been, and rightfully so, on distance from others. Here at Sunnyside, many of our meetings are centered around how many people we can have at an event or how much room does our church have. How can we all stay at a distance, but also stay close together as a community while still being safe?

When I think about distance in the Bible a few things come to mind, some that I will be writing about in future communiqués; however, initially my mind is brought to the Parable of the Good Samaritan. In the gospel of Luke, a particular expert on the law asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus asks this man “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” The man states, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus tells him he has answered correctly and says, “Do this and you will live.” But an interesting question from the expert of the law follows Jesus’ command, “And who is my neighbor?”

After this question Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, one which many of us know well. If you need a refresher read Luke 10:25-37. However, when we think of the phrase “love your neighbor as yourself” we have to ask the question, “Who really is my neighbor?” It is my opinion, and I am very guilty of this as well, that we have universalized the term neighbor which allows us to drive past someone in need, or not worry about what is happening next door because we help out with other ministries, or help our friends out when they are in need. If we look at the Greek word used here for neighbor it is plesion (πλησίον), which literally means those who are closest to us. In a time where we are distancing ourselves from others, Jesus is telling us to love those that are literally the closest in proximity to us. This, of course and I pray, includes our family. Let me say here and now that our family must be the ones we treat with unconditional love. A family that shows and accepts love is the greatest sign of heaven on earth today.

After our families, the ones that are closest to us in proximity are our neighbors. Let me ask you this question, “Do you know all of your neighbors?” I don’t. I live in an apartment complex and while I know one of the families here, there are 5 apartment units where I do not know them. The challenge I have for you, and for myself, is to get to know and love our neighbors more. With our current environment including COVID and politics coming to a crescendo the world is legitimately separating us more than we have ever been before. While we are trending in the wrong direction I hope we, as a Sunnyside community, can be those who turn the train around.

At the end of this communiqué there is an attachment that has an activity. Print it out, post it on your fridge or wherever your family is most, and as a family fill this out . If you cannot fill out all of the neighbors on your list, make an effort to find out who they are and show mercy during these times. Look for ways to pray for your neighbors, share your testimony with them, and ultimately as you build relationship with them share the Gospel with them! In my next communiqué I will be posting mine and I hope through our social media we can all share some of the names we know and those we are meeting during these times. Let’s be a community that draws near (relationally) to those that are around us, while ensuring the safety of those closest to us as well!

Below are a few resources and frugal/COVID safe ways to bless those that are closest to you, will help you get to know them, and be missional-minded Sunnysiders:

Resources
www.blesseveryhome.com
pray4everyhome.org

Frugal/COVID Safe Missional Ideas

Pray for them
Write a note of appreciation or encouragement
Give flowers via delivery service
Send a text of affirmation
Creatively share a word of encouragement or bible verse
Ask them about their day and LISTEN to them
Utilize GrubHub or other delivery service to deliver food or coffee/tea to your neighbors
Pay for someone’s gas
Pay for a drive-thru meal or coffee for the person behind you
Give them a COVID essentials box (hand sanitizer, masks, gloves, etc.)

Pastor Billy Hungate

Who Is My Neighbor? Activity Sheet (Click the link to print.)

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

Shout out and appreciation to each of our pastors for all the work they do behind the scenes to keep our church members connected, and the facility maintained in an orderly fashion! ~From an appreciative Office Administrator that sees all!

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Friday, 7:00 pm, NextGen hangout at Sunnyside Church.

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Dan Linrud will present our Bible message titled “The Truth About Trust.”

Announcements

Sabbath School quarterlies are here! It’s almost time for a new quarter. If you would like a new Sabbath School quarterly contact the church office and we will make sure you get what you need: 503-252-8080, text 971-238-9680, or email info@SunnysideAdventist.org. Or you may get it online at https://absg.adventist.org/nextquarter#lessons.

If you haven’t received your Children’s Sabbath Packet for October you may pick it up from the Information desk in the church foyer. If you do not have a code to get into the church, contact Rosie at the church office, 503-252-8080. Packets contain lesson stories, memory verses, crafts and activities for each Sabbath in October. We have packets for Beginners, Kindergarten/1st grade, Primary 4th/5th grades, and Junior High.

Cherry Park Elementary School, a neighboring school we have partnered with to assist their students, has sent us their wish list for this school year. They have made it very easy to help by giving us a link to supplies at Amazon.com. These supplies will be delivered directly to the school. The children who attend are many who are in desperate need of any help available. So your help will be greatly appreciated. Here is the link: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2HOXYTT1LVQ3K?ref_=wl_share. And here is a thank you from principal Kate Barker: “Thank you for always being so supportive. We are so grateful!

Our next Church Board meeting will be Wednesday, October 21, 7:00 pm, via Zoom. Board members, watch your email for your Zoom invitation.

Our NextGen hangout will be Friday, October 23, 7:00 pm, at Sunnyside Adventist Church. Join us if you’re between ages 21-40, for good times together! This is an informal hangout to just belong and become a community together. We will be social distancing so bring your masks (if you don’t have one we can provide one for you). If you would like to bring your own chair feel free but chairs will also be provided.

Sunnyside Symphony Orchestra, directed by Travis Hatton, is presenting its virtual Fall concert Sunday, October 25 at 4:00 pm. Music featured includes works by Mendelssohn, Morricone, Greig, and Respighi. Visit SunnysideSymphony.org for live streaming.

During this difficult time, if you are in need of financial help for rent, utilities, or other needs, the Family Resource Network stands by to help. Or if you know of a fellow church member that may need help and is hesitant to ask, let us know. Call the church office at 503-252-8080 or send an email to info@SunnysideAdventist.org.

Directory Update — We are missing many photos! We would love to have your photo in our directory. If you haven’t given us one, please upload a photo through your Elexio app or send a snapshot to info@SunnysideAdventist.org. If you can’t email it, mail it, we’ll scan it, and return it to you. It does not have to be one that is professionally taken. We just want to be able to identify you with a photo! Thank you for your help with this.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

If you’re an Amazon shopper, you can add Portland Adventist Academy as your AmazonSmile charitable organization. Amazon will donate a percentage of your purchases to PAA. You can feel good knowing that you’re helping our students receive a Christ-centered and character-driven education! Create your account at www.smile.amazon.com. Search charitable organizations for Portland Adventist Academy. Link: https://paasda.org/news/amazon-smiles-at-portland-adventist-academy/

Area Events and Announcements

Adventist Book Center’s Fall Case and Book Sale extends from October 11 to November 8. Download their flyer to view the sale items. ABCflyer.

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services. One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

The 2020 PACS Annual Fundraising Event is going virtual this year!

Date: Sunday, November 1, 2020
Program: 6:00-7:00 pm
Location: Your favorite couch or chair!
Speaker: Kaleb Eisele, founder of Humans of Adventism

Help make PACS’ biggest fundraising event of the year a great success!

PACS Food Pantry Drive-thru OPEN Mon-Fri from 9:00-11:00 am. We are still operating with social distancing and social responsibility. If you or someone you know needs food please tell them about us. If you cannot make it to PACS please send a note with someone and they can get you food. Any questions please call PACS at 503-252-8500 or email pacsfood2020@gmail.com. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220.

PACS Thrift Store is OPEN – we have temporary hours: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am-5:00 pm & Friday 9:00 am-2:30 pm. Our donation drop off center is open and we value your donations but due to a high volume of donations please call ahead to see if we are accepting, 503-252-8500. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them! If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
From an abundance of caution and in consultation with Adventist Health and the Oregon Conference Office and in cooperation with the Governor of the State of Oregon, the Sunnyside Seventh-day Adventist Church will not be holding public gatherings for the next few weeks. This includes all committee meetings and group Bible studies. The pastoral staff and administration of Sunnyside realize that many of our members fit the demographic of at-risk people in regards to COVID-19. Because of this, we believe the most loving thing to do is cancel services for now.

We encourage all our Sunnyside members to take advantage of this time to connect with each other in meaningful ways. Call friends that you know will miss our weekly fellowship the most. Enjoy Sabbath family time. And wash your hands!

Since we will not be collecting offerings for the next few Sabbaths, please remember your local church by giving online (click on our website link), drop your gifts in the door box at Rosie’s office, or send your gifts through the mail, marking your intent for each gift clearly. Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways. Please join us each Sabbath on Live Stream for services. Watch for email and social media updates on what services Sunnyside will have to offer. These are uncharted waters for Sunnyside Church and the Oregon Conference. Please keep us all in your prayers as we attempt to navigate well. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

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October 10 Communiqué

Posted on October 9, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family,

This week in the news headlines, there are two women who just became Nobel prize winners in chemistry for their contribution of what is called DNA Scissors. Possible uses for this breakthrough would be to cut out bad genetically transmitted diseases. These very smart ladies get to split $10 million dollars, which I imagine they will use for more research.

It is great to celebrate benchmark success in science. Today however, I want to celebrate some other outstanding women who are winners in an even more profound discovery that cannot be bought or awarded with money. What did they discover? Well, they discovered friendship, support, deep Bible study, a shared love of Jesus that shines through each of their lives and a consistent group that is a catalyst for those things.

This wonderful group is called FaithLift. They meet every Wednesday from approximately 10:00-12:30 via Zoom during Covid-19. From 10 to 10:30 they pray for global and community concerns. From 10:30-11:30+ they study from a book of the Bible. Currently they are in the book of Acts. The last part of the time is spent on sharing personal prayers and then just fellowship and visiting.

These women have been meeting for a long time, at least since 2002, and possibly before. It was started by Elvera Blake. The group keeps adding new members as time goes on. If you ask the women who attend this Bible Study group what they like about it, many will tell you it changed their life because of friendship, support, and learning more about God. Some joined during a very difficult time in their life when they lost a husband and became widows. Through love, prayers, and care, these ladies support each other through many of life’s ups and downs. They have found encouragement for their story. They have witnessed amazing answers to prayer and have found encouragement for their faith journey.

The first time I joined them was a few weeks ago. There were around 35 women studying together. I was so impressed by both their knowledgeable scholarly approach to the Bible and also their faith stories. Each one contributes deep insight, and all are learners in the process. They ask questions, laugh, and cry together. This experience confirmed to me that at the heart Sunnyside Church is so much more than a once a week Church Service. I have found a community here that loves and takes care of each other. This is the true sense of what a church should be. So, to all the women who are a part of this, thank you so much for bringing love and support to each other and to me. You are celebrated this week for having found the greatest of discoveries together in friendship and love like Jesus taught. May God bless you each one as you continue to support each other.

Pastor Wendy Witas

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

A special shout-out to our FaithLift ladies who provided food for our last NextGen event. Thank you FaithLift group! Your food was especially tasty!

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Friday evening, 7:00 pm, we will be enjoying a violin concert by Ellen Cockerham Riccio at Sunnyside Church. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall. The group is limited to 50 people in attendance, masks must be worn and 6’ distancing maintained. As of this writing there were about eight seats left. To sign up, go to our website and click on the “Sign Up” link.

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am on Sabbath. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “The Law Can’t Save You! But Jesus Can.”

Announcements

We had so much fun at the last NextGen hangout we want to do it again, and again, and again! Starting on October 16 we will meet every Friday night from 7-9 pm! Please invite your friends and anyone that would enjoy some time together in community! See you on the 16th!

Life at Sunnyside

Church Service Last Sabbath.

Craig King

Arnold Petersen

Advent Trombone Quartet: Roger Rosenquist, Jerry Davis, Dennis Springer, Jim Newell

Brooke Stafford

Pastor Mark Witas

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

Area Events and Announcements

Adventist Book Center’s Fall Case and Book Sale extends from October 11 to November 8. Download their flyer to view the sale items. ABCflyer.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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October 3 Communiqué

Posted on October 2, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

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Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

Zooming at Sunnyside!

Except for the buzzing of bees and the dashing of people between pillar and post, I had not really heard of Zooming before Covid 19 hit our world! Suddenly our schedules are plastered with Zoom meeting appointments. Our family connections are blessed with Zooming opportunities for birthday and anniversary celebrations and, for Shirley and me, even a memorial service for a special family member in South Africa.

Our Sunnyside Church family has also been blessed by this technology. Our various regular Zoom meetings have included Church Board, Finance Committee each month, Facility Committee, just to name a few.

I have been particularly interested in the way our family members have been connecting with one another and reaching out to others. You may be interested to know, that the following Sabbath School groups have been meeting each Sabbath:

Dr. Gingrich’s team has convened the Santiam Room group and have managed to draw people into fellowship from other towns and states that would not normally be able to visit at Sunnyside.

The Glovatskys, Kielmans, Dickersons and Dr. Paul Dragulin have a vibrant Reboot Bible study group, currently working through the book of Exodus.

The largest online Sabbath School meets under the leadership of Steffen Moller and his team of teachers. This is the Sabbath School that would normally meet in the Sandy Room, and

Of the Biblical Parenting group that would usually meet in the Workroom at Sunnyside, Sally Miller says, Our Sabbath school is still meeting via Zoom or social distancing outside when there is good weather. We usually have 12-19 people each week. We meet on Sabbath(s)at 10:00 am.

There is a Romanian Friday Night Group meeting each week at 8:30 pm. On Sabbath morning, a larger Romanian Sabbath School Group is also convened.

During the week, on Wednesday mornings, the Women’s FaithLift Prayer Ministry Group and FaithLift Bible Study Group Zooms. Thank you to Dianne Glovatsky and helpers.

Pastor Tom Stafford with technical support from Dr. Paul Dragulin convene a Men’s Bible Study Group Wednesday morning. This group is meeting back at Sunnyside now AND Zooming for the benefit of those who cannot be there in person.

I am aware of a book club, a history group and a small weekly ladies Bible study group, to name a few more ways people are connecting.

One group stands out to me: I found Marie Pierre livestreaming on Facebook an Sabbath afternoons in French and Creole. She has a wonderful story to tell of her ministry that emerged because of a miracle of God’s healing. Marie tells me that she is connecting with up to 300 people!

And there is more. There is your story. There is my story. There is our story.

Blessings,

Pastor Dave Allen

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

This week we had a tree succumb to the wind and begin to fall dropping a huge limb into the driveway.

A special shout-out to Tom Kramer and Richard Zaversnuke for helping to clear this tree, and for their help in finishing up our platform. Thank you, Tom and Richard, for all the work you do!

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “A Level Playing Field.”

Announcements

NextGen (ages 21-40) will be scheduling regular activities. So, watch your bulletin or connect via links to NextGen to follow our events. www.facebook.com/groups/612799562753706 www.instagram.com/sunnysideyg

Bread Night will soon be starting again. This is the night we take time out to make a homemade meal for our nursing students staying at the nurses dorm. This means so much to them because of their busy schedules, for some, it is the only substantial “homey” meal they get all week. If you’d like to join in helping, contact Lorrie Wescott or Bill Hohensee.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Area Events and Announcements

Adventist Book Center’s Open House Sale extends from September 13 to October 4. Download their flyer to view the sale items. ABCflyer.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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September 26 Communiqué

Posted on September 25, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

When you think of American society and culture, what are the thoughts that come to your mind? Baseball games and hotdogs? Fireworks and apple pie? Neighborhood walks or going to the mall? Is it America the Beautiful or something else that comes to mind?

Once when I was riding into town with my grandmother, I remember her looking up at a billboard and making a sound of disgust. I glanced up and saw a pretty typical advertisement for some sort of soda drink. I asked what the problem was and she said, “The America I grew up in was much better than America now.” This was back in 1998. She went on to explain that the billboard that had the lady in the very low cut dress wasn’t something a typical American would see on the side of the road in her day. America had become a country of low sexual morals and, in the name of business, had objectified and sexualized human beings. As we walked through Walmart together, she took me by the magazine rack to re-enforce her point. There was no denying it.

This week we are going to take a look at Rome as Paul saw it—through his eyes. Rome was a moral train wreck. It also was home to a sizable group of Christians who were living in a culture that challenged their commitment to all things pure and good and lovely.

So, how can we as a Christians in a world full of disgust? How can we stand in purity when everything around us is so polluted with the devil’s garbage?

The answer? The answer is to cling to Jesus as we cling to each other for strength, purity, and support. The church is designed and purposed for such a time as this. Cling to Jesus. Be the church. And flee from the devil’s schemes. Remember, this world is NOT our home.

Pastor Mark Witas

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

Shout out this week to Jackee Duvall and her team for putting together the many Sabbath packets for our children. Thank you, Jackee!

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “The Way of Wrath.”

Announcements

Our prayers are with all of you during these difficult wildfire times. Many of you have been displaced. If you need help, please contact us at the church, 503-252-8080, or any of the pastors. We will quickly gather a group to help you.

The Gladstone camp grounds has opened as an evacuation point for Clackamas County fires as a place for RVs. They are asking for more help to staff the camp ground as we minister to evacuees from across our county. There are more than 50 RVs on campus with many needs to attend to. If you can help, please contact Cindy Birmingham to volunteer. Just text her at 503-705-9234. Include your name and when you’re available to help. THANK YOU! It takes a team to get this done.

Friday, October 2, on the Sunnyside patio, the NextGen group, ages 21-40, will be having a hangout from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. We will be social distancing so bring your masks (if you don’t have one we can provide one for you). If you would like to bring your own chair feel free, but chairs will also be provided. RSVP is REQUIRED as 50 guests are the MAX! Find the Eventbrite link below to RSVP. This is an informal hangout to just belong and become a community together as we continue to recover and grow from the challenges that COVID has presented. If you have any questions feel free to contact Pastor Billy Hungate. https://www.eventbrite.com/…/nextgen-hangout-tickets…

Caring for the Next Generation, an online event.

Sunday, 9:00 AM – 12 Noon.
Hosted by Oregon Conference Children’s Ministries.
An Online Event
Tickets — $20:
Register at the link below:
http://campmeetingvolunteers.wufoo.com/forms/ze1xe740hzc32r
Three presentations to help you to Care for the Next Generation and lift your eyes to the possibilities and potential of what our children can become.

Life at Sunnyside

Church Service September 19

Pastor Wendy Witas

Ted Mackett

Debbie Matongo

Wendy Witas, Polly Moody

Pastor Mark Witas

Baby Shower September 20

Marlan & Chelsea Glovatsky

Eva & Jeff Dickerson

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

Area Events and Announcements

Adventist Book Center’s Open House Sale extends from September 13 to October 4. Download their flyer to view the sale items. ABCflyer.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Job Opportunity
One of our members needing a babysitter/nanny for their two children, 7 months old and 3 years old, on two Sundays per month. The Sundays are flexible, the hours would be from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. If you can help this family out, please call the church office at 503-252-8080.

Housing Needed We have received a request from an older adult single male that he is in need of housing in Multnomah County. He is interested in finding a room or sharing an apartment. If you know of something available, please contact the church office at 503-252-8080.

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September 19 Communiqué

Posted on September 18, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Hello church family!

I am so excited to be here and share a little about myself with you all. I wish we were not in a pandemic and we could be with each other, sharing in laughter, eating in each other’s houses, and getting to know each other more face-to-face. I especially long for the time we can all be in our beautiful church worshiping our Creator every Sabbath. Until then, here is a little about myself.

As a third-generation Adventist, I was born and raised in Keene, Texas where Southwestern Adventist University is located. After graduating from high school I attended Union College, pursing a bachelor’s degree in health sciences to be a Physician Assistant. During my shadowing for the Union PA program, I was working in a primary care office as a medical assistant, assisting with B-12 shots. The lucky gentlemen, who was my first patient of the day, walked in. I looked at him, and I told him, “Hey, just so you know. You are my first patient that I will be giving a shot to, ever. Are you okay with that? There are more experienced individuals in the back if you would prefer.” He smiled at me and said, “I’m sure you will do a great job!” With hesitation, I reached for the B12 shot, took the cap off, I lifted his sleeve, and I administered the shot. I said, “Did that hurt?” He said, “No! Not at all.” I said, “Great!”, and I pulled the shot out of his arm, only to realize that the B12 was still in the syringe. I quickly left the room, changed majors, and headed to California where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Health Information and Informatics Management.

After graduation, I completed an internship at Centura Health in Denver, Colorado where I met Billy. After calling him Ben and Bill, saying no to him multiple times to date, his persistence and gentlemanly ways won me over. This led to me turning down a management job in Colorado to move to Texas for Billy to pursue pastoral ministry. From Texas we moved to Michigan, and while Billy received his MDiv I completed my Masters in Healthcare Administration.

Now being in Oregon and at Sunnyside, it is safe to say there have been plenty of interruptions in the plans that I had for my life. I can honestly tell you that running from the needle and leaving the PA program, moving to Colorado where I swore off relationships, and now being a wife of a pastor was a life I never thought I would have seen for myself.

However, how much richer is my life now listening to God’s direction? Even when it is what I least expected. Billy and I for our nightly worship together are currently reading the Circle Maker, and throughout the book the writer talks about the walls of Jericho falling down. God asks them to circle Jericho when the people probably asked, “Why not scale the walls?” “Why not use a battering ram?” Yet, God tells them to circle Jericho and the walls will fall. Sometimes God’s greatest victories in our life are the ones that seem to not even be close to what we could imagine or think of.

Just like I never thought I would be a pastors wife, I never thought I would be a Care Coordinator for behavioral health patients. God has his funny way of changing our paths to meet his destination. I can safely say that with every experience, although not expected, I have been filled with richer growth opportunities into helping me become me. I have had multiple Jericho moments in my life. Bigger than forgetting to inject medicine into someone’s arm. But God has always been there through every surprising turn and twist. I am so happy to start my journey out as a pastor’s wife with this church. Billy and I can already feel the love and family that is shared in this community.

Chelsea Hungate

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

Shout out this week to the many volunteers who cametogether and finished taking out the Sanctuary carpet and helped with painting the Sanctuary this last week. Thank you to each of you!!

And a special thank you to Roger Rosenquist for all of his personal hard work and planning on this project.

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at
11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “Not Ashamed.”

Announcements

You are invited to a baby shower(s) on Sunday, September 20, 1:00-3:00 pm, for Chelsea & Marlan Glovatsky (baby girl) and Eva & Jeff Dickerson (baby boy) both due in November. With social distancing and wearing masks, it will be outside on the Sunnyside Church patio (or in fellowship hall if it rains). Both are registered at babylist.com. If you would like to participate in a group gift, please contact Dianne Glovatsky, 503-706-5611. A gift is not necessary to attend—we want to welcome them into our church family.

Chelsea & Marlan Glovatsky

Jeff & Eva Dickerson

There will be a Portland Adventist Academy special constituency meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at 7:00 pm on Zoom. We will be emailing you the Zoom link, agenda, and meeting minutes ahead of time. Constituency members, please save the date!

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Area Events and Announcements

Adventist Book Center’s Open House Sale extends from September 13 to October 4. Download their flyer to view the sale items. ABCflyer.

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them!
If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Housing Needed
We have received a request from an older adult single male that he is in need of housing in Multnomah County. He is interested in finding a room or sharing an apartment. If you know of something available, please contact the church office at
503-252-8080.

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

From an abundance of caution and in consultation with Adventist Health and the Oregon Conference Office and in cooperation with the Governor of the State of Oregon, the Sunnyside Seventh-day Adventist Church will not be holding public gatherings for the next few weeks. This includes all committee meetings and group Bible studies.

The pastoral staff and administration of Sunnyside realize that many of our members fit the demographic of at-risk people in regards to COVID-19. Because of this, we believe the most loving thing to do is cancel services for now.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

Please join us each Sabbath on Live Stream for services. Watch for email and social media updates on what services Sunnyside will have to offer. These are uncharted waters for Sunnyside Church and the Oregon Conference. Please keep us all in your prayers as we attempt to navigate well.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

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September 12 Communiqué

Posted on September 11, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

This week we had some interesting challenges with heavy winds, power outages, and yes, a thick blanket of smoke from fires surrounding us from multiple states. It gave an apocalyptic feeling, especially in the midst of a pandemic. I had a hard time sleeping Monday night as the wind created quite a racket of banging and moaning against our house in Happy Valley. Inside our house there were no competing sounds of a radio, a fan, or music, because our power was out. We normally have fans and a sound machine going to create white noise to lull us into a heavy sleep.

Since sleep was evading me, I was thinking how thankful I was to be inside and not outside in the elements. I could breathe the air in the house and not the tainted smoke from outside. Yet I had a heightened awareness of the storm attacking my home and community. Even though the wind was up to 60 miles an hour at some points, I was unhurt inside the safety of our house. Does that make you think of any spiritual application?The Bible says that the devil goes about like a roaring lion seeking to devour and destroy — like a storm that feels ominous and overwhelming. This can seem intimidating.

The good news is, we do not have to live in fear of this adversary. One of my absolute favorite Bible verses is Isaiah 26:3 NJKV which gives an amazing key to endure any storm in life. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose mind is stayed on You, because he (she) trusts in you.”

Our mind is a powerful thing. If we dwell on the storm around us it can destroy our joy, our peace, and our resolve to choose God’s way of love and trust. Our own mind can be our worst enemy when it comes to facing storms. Yet, when we focus on the ONE, then all the rattling and moaning and scariness attacking outside, cannot touch the peace that God gives which passes all understanding.

That peace is my prayer for you my wonderful church family. You may feel a bit frazzled, weary, and maybe even a bit frightened, however, when you focus on the Rock of our salvation, our only hope in times of need, only then, will peace beyond understanding help you ride the storm to the other side to see a new dawn of hope. Jesus is able to calm your storm right now! You can trust him!

Pastor Wendy Witas

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am.
Pastor Billy Hungate will present our Bible message titled “Calling.”

Announcements

Please pray for the family of:

Glenn Hudkins, who passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, August 27.

Sunday, September 13, 9:00 am, there will be a work bee at the church. We need help to carry out the rolls of carpet to the trailer for disposal and people to help scrape glue from the floor. The more volunteers we have, the sooner we’ll get done! Yes, face masks will be required.

A Church Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, 7:00 pm, via Zoom. Watch your email for your Zoom invitation.

You are invited to a baby shower on Sunday, September 20, 1:00-3:00 pm, for Chelsea and Marlan Glovatsky (baby girl) and Eva and Jeff Dickerson (baby boy) both due in November. With social distancing & wearing masks, it will be outside on the church patio (or in fellowship hall if it rains). Both are registered at babylist.com. Hope you can join us to celebrate.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

Substitute Teachers Needed!
Please considering joining the PAA team as a Substitute Teacher.
To apply, contact Shawna Irvine at sirvine@paasda.org or 503.255.8372×214. Qualified applicants must be 26 or older or have a college degree. Qualified applicants must follow all safety protocols, including wearing a mask and maintaining physical distance when in-person. This job pays $15.00 per hour (class time only). A resume is not required. Background checks are mandatory and paid by PAA.

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Rivergate Adventist Elementary School is looking for a qualified Lead Preschool and After School Care Teacher for the 2020-2021 school year. Must have a great love and patience for children. For information on qualifications and to submit a resume please contact School Principal Sharilyn Smith sharilyn@rgsda.org.

Walla Walla University
Students at Walla Walla University will have three options for attending classes during fall quarter. The university announced on Aug. 11 that it will offer more than 100 online and dual-modality classes in addition to in-person classes. General registration will be on September 13; Freshman Jump-Start registration begins September 8.

Area Events and Announcements

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Housing Needed
We have received a request from an older adult single male that he is in need of housing in Multnomah County. He is interested in finding a room or sharing an apartment. If you know of something available, please contact the church office at
503-252-8080.

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

———————————————————————————–

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

September 5 Communiqué

Posted on September 4, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

As the Years Pass

In sorting through some of my Allen family history, amongst the bits and pieces, I came across this prayer. I guess my Dad thought he would benefit by it, not realizing that one day his son would also be getting old:

As the Years Pass…

“O Lord, Thou knowest better than I that time is passing and I am growing older. Some day I shall be very old.

“Keep me from getting talkative, and particularly from the fatal habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me, I pray Thee, from the craving to straighten out everybody else’s affairs.

“Keep Thou my mind free from the recital of endless details, and give me wings to fly me straight to the point. I ask for Grace to listen to the tales of others’ pains. Help me to endure them with patience. Put Thou a seal on my own lips lest I burden others with my own pains and aches, for they are increasing, and my love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by.

“Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally it is possible that I may be mistaken. Keep me reasonably sweet. I do not want to be a saint – some are hard to live with – but a sour old human is one of the crowning works of the devil.

“Make me thoughtful but not moody, helpful but not bossy.

“With my vast store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it all – but Thou knowest, Lord that I want a few friends at the end!”

Thank you for letting me share my prayer with you.

Pastor Dave Allen

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “A Prophetic Echo.”

Announcements

Please pray for the family of:

Glenn Hudkins, who passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, August 27.

Thank you Sunnyside family for the warm welcome to Pastor Billy Hungate, Chelsea Hungate, and Pastor Wendy Witas. Your love and overwhelming kindness are so appreciated. We are ready to tackle what lies ahead and we know that the best part is making new friends as we journey together. Thank you again! We can’t wait to see what great things God has in store.

Renewed Sanctuary — Almost there! The ReNew Committee has been very active in planning ahead for the next steps of the refurbishment of our sanctuary. Platform concrete is in place and tiling will be done soon. These next steps include carpeting, choir chair upgrade, and pew reupholstering. Most of the funds are in place. We are about $20,000 short of what is needed for these next steps. Please consider contributing to making this happen. Thank you!

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

This is to notify the constituency of Portland Adventist Academy that a Special Constituency Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. on ZOOM. Your church will be emailing you the Zoom Link, Agenda, and Meeting Minutes ahead of time.

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Area Events and Announcements

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Housing Needed
We have received a request from an older adult single male that he is in need of housing in Multnomah County. He is interested in finding a room or sharing an apartment. If you know of something available, please contact the church office at
503-252-8080.

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

———————————————————————————–

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

August 29 Communiqué

Posted on August 28, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Dear church family!

What’s your worldview? I don’t know that I knew I had a worldview until I realized that mine was so different than Muhammad’s.

I was in Kenya working with a girl’s rescue mission just a few miles from the Maasai Mara when I first realized it. There is a small town a few kilometers from the mission from which we had to purchase our building supplies. From a previous year there and due to the numerous visits to a street-side supply store I did business with, I got to know the owner of that business on a first-name basis. It was during a conversation with him that I realized that I have a worldview.

As we were talking one day he shared with me that he was Muslim by faith and had come to Kenya from Somalia. When he said this, something triggered in my mind that prompted me to ask a question.

Just weeks before traveling to Kenya I had watched a movie called “Captain Phillips,” a movie about a ship sailing off the coast of Somalia that was taken over by Somalian pirates, who held the crew hostage and demand a ransom. The movie was based on a true story and highlighted what had been happening off the coast for years. Ships were being commandeered, hostages were taken, ransoms were being demanded, violence, and intimidation were dominating the waters off the coast of this war-torn country.

After watching the film, having an American worldview, I had an opinion about this issue. I also have a big mouth and an insatiable curiosity. So I asked, “You’re from Somalia? I just watched a movie about these bad guys that live in Somalia that go out to sea and take hostages and demand ransom! Do you know anything about this?”

My Somalian friend smiled and said, “So you think the pirates are the bad guys? Yes. Yes, you are an American.” He smiled.

I argued with him. “How can the hostage takers not be the bad guys? Explain this to me!”

So he did. He said for years and years fishing vessels had been sailing through Somalian waters, without permission, taking all the fish his countrymen needed to live and make a living. Despite their pleas to the international community to disallow this, because there was not central government authority, nobody listened. Nobody cared. These huge companies from all over the world just kept sailing into Somali waters and taking all they wanted—until the waters were fished out. Now there were no fish. No way to make a living. No way to provide for hungry families. The local economy dashed.

“So,” he said with a grim face, “My people did what we could to recuperate what was taken from us. It’s not our first choice, but we were desperate. We saw the greed that ignored our people and our economy as an act of war. So we retaliate in the only way we have left.”

I’d never heard this before. Whether you agree with my friend or not his worldview was certainly framed around a set of circumstances that were different than mine.

Our worldviews are formed by our experiences in life. Our skin color, our ethnicity, our geographical location, our economic circumstances that we are born with and grow up with, form the worldview that we end up with. In a lot of ways, until we are able to step outside of ourselves in a moment of realization, we don’t choose our worldview. It is handed to us. We don’t choose our worldview until we do.

What I mean by this is, we can’t choose who are parents are, what color eyes we are born with, what religion (if any) we are introduced to as children, what part of the world we grow up in, or the language we learn from infancy. These are all either pre-determined or randomly assigned to us, depending on your worldview on predestination. Either way, our growing up influences are not chosen by us, they are foisted upon us.

All of these influences whether we are conservative or liberal, have prejudices toward race or gender, or whether we will walk into a cafeteria with an exploding vest on for the God we grew up trying to defend. They shape our understanding of God and who God is, or is not. And when things happen in the world around us, our worldview shapes our opinions on how to react. The world we were saturated with as children has molded our worldview and has largely influenced who we are today.

But, as intimated earlier, this can change. As free moral agents, we can choose. As free thinking, independent adults, we can intentionally broaden our worldview. And I would posit, if we call ourselves followers of Jesus, this is a necessary part of becoming a “new creation.”

How does this happen?

1.) Listen. An example from my own life in learning to listen has come with the recent protesting and riots that have dominated the news over the perceived treatment of black men and women in my country, by officers of the law. As an age advanced (my way of saying I’m nearly 60 years old) white male who grew up in the western US in a middle-class family, I have a worldview that tends toward a certain way of processing what’s going on in the world. I wanted to challenge my own worldview, so I decided to listen. Not to talk or convince people that my worldview is better or more correct but listen, and then decide if my worldview needed adjusting. I have two Adventist young people living in my home because their Adventist college had to close their campuses (COVID-19). Both of them are black. So I listened. For weeks I listened. I listened to their stories about being black in America. I listened to their stories about being black Adventists in North America. I listened to their stories of being black on a college campus that employs very few black professors or staff; the things they have heard and experienced in the classroom. I listened. And my worldview changed. Of course, listening applies to more areas of life than race relations in America. It applies to politics, religion, diet, gender issues and issues of theology and faith. Listening without an agenda of trying to change another person’s point of view, in any aspect of life, will challenge, educate and strengthen one’s worldview.

2.) Read. Copying and pasting memes on social media does not count as reading. Most of us get into the habit of reading things that we already agree with. We like to re-enforce what we already know to be true. I have found that I am better able to articulate my faith and my worldview when I read outside of those boundaries. The most radical faith changes I have ever encountered as a Seventh-day Adventist have come from reading articles and books written by folks who don’t have my worldview. Jesus mentioned that He has sheep in all kinds of folds that we may not be aware of. I would contend that God is working with and through people of all faiths and worldviews toward His purposes. This doesn’t mean that everybody’s worldview is better than mine. It means that their worldview is different and that I can learn from them. Other perspectives can broaden and sharpen my worldview to be more and more like Jesus.

3.) Speaking of Jesus, it would seem from reading the gospels, that He had a worldview. His worldview was expressed in words and actions that are undeniable. Simply stated, His worldview was that God is good and the devil is bad. Poor and marginalized people need to be helped and stood up for against the powers that be, and religion that doesn’t promote these kinds of behaviors is empty at best. He also taught and understood that the evil is a great influence in this world and that it is the job of believers to combat this in every way they can, whether that’s through a healing touch, a bowl of food or a turtle dove table rightly kicked over. His worldview was lived out of convicting love and not mere moral obligation. Any worldview that we have adopted as our own that doesn’t draw us closer to the way Jesus saw the world, in this author’s opinion, is faulty at best. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that if the whole world adopted Jesus’s worldview as their own, well, it certainly would answer Jesus’ prayer, “Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.”

Pastor Mark Witas

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am.
Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “The Root of What’s Wrong.”

Announcements

Please pray for the families of:

Glenn Hudkins, who passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, August 27.
Dennis Lake, who passed away Sunday, August 23. Many of you knew Dennis and his wife Jinny. They were former members of Sunnyside.

This afternoon, between 5:00-7:00 pm, we will welcome our new pastors with a drive-by welcome here in the church parking lot. Pastors Wendy Witas and Billy Hungate along with their families will be eager to greet you. Line up for the drive-by in the back parking lot along the CherryWood side, then you will exit through the front parking lot to Market Street.

The children’s Sabbath School Activity Packets will also be available for pick up during the drive through.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

School begins August 31. For our re-entry plan in the fall, the school has chosen to open our classrooms without distance learning. We will continue developing our plan with all protocols as required by the Oregon Department of Education. Our final plan will be posted on our website and submitted to the Oregon Department of Education by August 15, 2020. The first day of classes is set for August 31, 2020.

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

School begins August 26. Belonging & Learning From a Distance
PAA’s academic, emotional, and spiritual support meant remarkable resilience last spring quarter. We’re ready for in-person and distance learning but classes are capped so apply today!

PAA will not be able to meet for in-person learning for the first week of school. We will only meet for in-person instruction when Oregon’s state coronavirus metrics are in compliance (info to follow the metrics). We will always provide a high quality education whether online learning or in-person learning. To learn more visit our website at https://paasda.org/.

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Walla Walla University has an open position for a full-time Power Plant Operator in their Facility Services Department. They are having a challenging time finding applicants. With the continued changes to the workforce around the state and nation, there may be someone who might be looking for work and is qualified and interested in applying. Here’s the link to the job description page. Power Plant Operator, Walla Walla Univesity. https://www.wallawalla.edu/resources/human-resources-payroll/staff-employment/

Area Events and Announcements

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Housing Needed
We have received a request from an older adult single male that he is in need of housing in Multnomah County. He is interested in finding a room or sharing an apartment. If you know of something available, please contact the church office at
503-252-8080.

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

———————————————————————————–

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

August 22 Communiqué

Posted on August 21, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Hello church family!

I am going to follow Pastor Wendy’s lead and tell you my personal story to help all of you get to know me a little better. If you would have told me even five years ago that I would be your new associate pastor I would have not believed you.

It was July 9, 2016, and I was sinking deeper into the water and the pressure began to build around me. If any of you have gone deep under water you know the immense pressure and silence that accompanies you at these depths. With my eyes open I looked up and thought, this is it, this is where I am going to die. In fact, it was where I died. It was my baptism! My pastor dunked me deep under water and held me there for a while because both he and I knew with my past I needed it. I died to Christ that day and became forever His and since then have been living my life, with tons of mistakes, and to the best I can to follow His lead and example.

I do not come from a Christian home. In fact, when I first heard that my now wife was an Adventist, I had to Google what that even meant! Growing up I was really good at one thing, throwing a baseball. It was my dream to be a professional baseball player and I got very close. With a full-ride scholarship to play baseball as a pitcher, I put every single ounce of what I had into achieving that dream. One day, as I was playing ultimate frisbee with friends, I landed awkwardly on my knee and tore my ACL and MCL. I was hoping to correct it with rehab and get back into playing again and the exact day I was cleared for full activities I tore my other ACL and MCL sledding in one of my home towns of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. That was the end of my career as a baseball player, as I began to take the hint that I should try to live my life a little differently now.

When I left baseball, I now had this enormous gap in my life that I tried to fill with everything I possibly could (I often think of Ecclesiastes 1:14 here). This led me to many addictions in my life and a pursuit of finding that one thing that would satisfy my soul and make my life worth living. I became an accountant obtaining my Bachelor’s degree in Accounting at Colorado State University and began my work up the corporate ladder at Centura Health in Denver, Colorado. Finishing school didn’t save me, the title of accountant didn’t save me, the money sure didn’t help me out either. It only got worse.

That was until the day I met this sweet beautiful blonde girl named Chelsea. She called me Ben the first time we met and accused me of stealing candy from the ladies who worked with us (ask her about that story when you meet her). Even with that traumatic beginning, we both knew that this was the person we were supposed to be with. Going on walks with Chelsea was, and still is to this day, the thing that continually centers me. When we first started going on walks we talked about Adventism and topics such as this weird word for Saturday, and how everyone sleeps when they die, and how they don’t eat meat! (I used to eat 4 pieces of bacon, two eggs, and sourdough toast every morning when I met her). She left on vacation and gave me the name of a speaker that I should listen to. When she came back from her vacation I had an entire legal pad full of notes that I wanted to ask her. Being overwhelmed with the amount, and enormity, of the questions she sent me to my pastor who is the one that held me under the water as deep as he could on July 9.

After my baptism, I struggled deeply because I thought my baptism and being an Adventist would fill that hole that baseball left. Again on another walk with Chelsea, she asked me what I was missing in life and what I wish I had. I spouted off about 5 things that included meaning, purpose, and direction in life. She told me I needed to pray for God’s will in these things and that I should seek Him to find what I needed in my life. That very night I was praying and reading an ESV study bible I had received from my in-laws, Rob and Lisa Foster. Reading the introduction to Romans a scholar of the Apostle Paul wrote that not only did Paul find reconciliation for his sins in Christ, he also found meaning, purpose, and direction in his life through preaching the resurrection of Christ. It was that moment that my hole was filled in following Christ with all of my heart, while continually stumbling, and telling others about His love for them.

My wife Chelsea and I have recently added to our family a cute Golden Doodle puppy named Dunder who is full of love for other dogs and people. Personally, I enjoy cooking, eating, hiking, triathlons, fishing, golf, rock climbing, and basically anything outdoors. Please contact me if you would like to be outside and meet as in these rare times I would love to meet my new church family anywhere I can!

Coming to you as a new pastor in this role God has gifted me with an administrative background working in finance for a few years in the corporate world. He has also blessed me with an Apostolic compass, and a passion for how to live life abundantly (John 10:10) here on this earth. Everything I do I try to incorporate how it can reach those that are not in the church, and how we can be a church on mission together in our beautiful city of Portland, Oregon. My prayer for this calling from God is that, as James 1 in the Message translation states, I will “lead with my ears.” Listening to your amazing ideas for how you can see Sunnyside be a blessing to those inside the church and outside as well. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know all I can in any way that we are allowed.

Pastor Billy Hungate

Send your “shout-outs” to i nfo@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.

Shout out to Gary and Kathy Kramer. It has been rumored they have been dropping flowering plants and cards by many of our members’ homes! Thank you for your love and thoughtfulness, Gary & Kathy! We miss seeing you on a weekly basis!

News & Notes

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at
11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “The Most Powerful Muscle.”

Announcements

Next Wednesday, August 26, between 4:00-6:00 pm, there will be a drive-by celebration of Lorrie Wescott’s 90^th birthday, at the corner of NE Davis and 104th Streets. Take a minute to celebrate with Lorrie on this very exciting date! Happy birthday, Lorrie!

A virtual Board meeting is scheduled via Zoom Wednesday, August 26, at 7:00 pm. If you are a Board member, watch your email for an invitation.

Sabbath, August 29, between 5:00-7:00 pm, we will welcome our new pastors with a drive-by welcome here in the church parking lot. Pastors Wendy Witas and Billy Hungate along with their families will be eager to greet you. Line up for the drive-by in the back parking lot along the CherryWood side, then you will exit through the front

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

PAA will not be able to meet for in-person learning for the first week of school. We will only meet for in-person instruction when Oregon’s state coronavirus metrics are in compliance (info to follow the metrics). We will always provide a high quality education wether online learning or in-person learning. To learn more visit our website at https://paasda.org/.

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Area Events and Announcements

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS

Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

———————————————————————————–

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

August 15 Communiqué

Posted on August 14, 2020 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family,

Let’s Get Acquainted!

Stories are important. When a church gets a new pastor, it is helpful to know their personal story as they become grafted into the church community. I want to tell you a little of my story and why I am here at Sunnyside starting my new role as an associate pastor.

I am a product of a loving family. My dad was a missionary dentist in British Columbia. My mother a schoolteacher and office manager. As a family, we traveled up and down the coast of B.C. doing dentistry during the day, and VBS at night. I grew up traveling by boat and small plane loaded with dental equipment traveling to isolated First Nations villages. Nature was stunning in its pristine beauty everywhere I turned. We were often accompanied by humpback whale or dolphins joyfully swimming alongside our boat while cruising from one village to another. Sometimes our boat would disturb the sunbathing elephant seals basking in the light on large rocks. Seeing bear was commonplace and the soaring eagle was a part of my everyday world. We would sometimes see over 100 eagles in one area at different times of the year. We settled in Bella Coola, B.C. as our base of operations and then branched out. My dad was the only dentist for 300 miles around.

My parents’ trust in God was the framework of how we lived our life. They were generous with others and our house was always Grand Central, where church members stayed all day on Sabbath as we played, sang, worshiped, and did life together. That is the background of what I learned was a healthy Christian community. I saw God work in miracles protecting my family from hair-raising challenges. You will probably hear some of these stories while I am at Sunnyside. This background gave me a heart for God and a heart to share how wonderful He is. When I was 8 years old, I was baptized, determined to follow the God my parents taught me about from a young tender age. I have never regretted that decision.

As I grew, I personally chose God not just because my parents said He was good, but because I experienced His goodness personally. As a college student, I wanted to be a pastor. However, as a woman in the 1980s, I was discouraged from following this dream. I was told to go into education, which I knew I would love as well. This I did while still taking every theology class that I could. My love of ministry blossomed under the love of music and through music ministry along with my education focus.

When I began to teach in 1984, I learned quickly that my classroom was my congregation and I wanted to make learning go beyond the 3 Rs to real education that reaches the heart of children for eternity. It became my passion. I taught for over 20 years in the classroom ranging from teaching preschool to some high school subjects in our Adventist school system. I mostly taught in lower elementary classrooms. I ministered along side my husband, Pastor Mark, all through those years. We loved doing ministry together, whether it was music, VBS, church services or opening our home for Bible studies and social activities. While in college, I sang with Harvest Celebration, and later pursued professional music ministry with a company called Incubator Records. Music at that time was a sideline ministry.

In 2007, I earned a master’s degree in education. The program I focused on utilized William Glasser’s Choice Theory, a philosophy which harmonizes with biblical principles and Ellen White’s ideas for teaching children the power of choice in contrast to using coercion to find the greatest success in life.

In 2013, Pacific Union College needed a family pastor. My husband became senior pastor and I was asked to take on the family pastor position. This was my first official pastoral role and I loved it. I found that it was like my classrooms, only the age group was broader. The keys to success I have learned in teaching became the framework for working with children and families; share the best example of love through a community that plays, worships, sings, and does life together, with Jesus as our example of what love looks like.

When I first came to Oregon, I was asked to assist Shirley Allen at the conference office as the Associate Director of Children’s Ministries. Now I am honored to come back to what I love best—the pastoral role working directly with children and families. I realize that our current world situation is a challenge for our kids but, with your partnership and working together, I believe we can still have a loving community that plays, sings, and does life together with Jesus as our greatest example. That is my prayer and goal here as I begin ministry at Sunnyside. I appreciate your prayers and ideas. I encourage you to share your vision and dreams. Together we can become a loving community that brings light to Portland with the love that only Jesus knows best.

Blessings,

Pastor Wendy Witas

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic all services and meetings at the church have been canceled until further notice. Stay connected! Check out our Facebook page and website. If you are not receiving our emails, please forward your email address to info@SunnysideAdventist.org, so we can keep you informed of our activities.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our Bible message titled “Screen Door on a Submarine.”

Announcements

Renewed Sanctuary — Almost there! The ReNew Committee has been very active in planning ahead for the next steps of the refurbishment of our sanctuary. Platform concrete is in place and tiling will be done soon. These next steps include carpeting, choir chair upgrade and pew reupholstering. Most of the funds are in place. We are about $20,000 short of what is needed for these next steps. Please consider contributing to making this happen. Thank you!

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

School begins August 31. For our re-entry plan in the fall, the school has chosen to open our classrooms without distance learning. We will continue developing our plan with all protocol required by the Oregon Department of Education. Our final plan will be posted on our website and submitted to the Oregon Department of Education by August 15, 2020. The first day of classes is set for August 31, 2020.

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

PAA will not be able to meet for in-person learning for the first week of school. We will only meet for in-person instruction when Oregon’s state coronavirus metrics are in compliance (info to follow the metrics). We will always provide a high quality education wether online learning or in-person learning. To learn more visit our website at https://paasda.org/.

Bus Driver needed for the Coming School Year!
Portland Adventist Academy is looking for a bus driver for the coming school year. The qualified applicant should have, or be able to obtain, a commercial driver’s license to transport students to and from PAA and Tualatin Valley Academy. The job pays $20 per hour. To apply, contact Darcie Hordofa at 503.255.8372 or dhordofa@paasda.org. Learn more on the PAA website HERE.

Area Events and Announcements

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services.
One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570, or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS

—————————————————————————

ALL SERVICES AND MEETINGS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Pastors and Rosie will still be on the clock and available via phone or email for appointments and visitation.

Please share word of this with all the folks you may know that do not frequent social media, have access to email or have limited communication in other ways.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46

———————————————————————————–

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Who Is My Neighbor? Activity Sheet (Click the link to print.)

News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

The 2020 PACS Annual Fundraising Event is going virtual this year!

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Life at Sunnyside

Church Service Last Sabbath.

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Caring for the Next Generation, an online event.

Life at Sunnyside

Church Service September 19

Baby Shower September 20

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACS Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACSFull-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Share this:

Like this:

News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACSFull-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Share this:

Like this:

News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACSFull-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

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Pastor Mark Witas

News & Notes

This Weekend

Announcements

Adventist Education

Area Events and Announcements

PACS NEWS: (Portland Adventist Community Service)

Job Openings at PACSFull-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

Share this:

*This Weekend***

*This Weekend***

*This Weekend***

*This Weekend***

*This Weekend***

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

*This Weekend***

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

*This Weekend***

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

*This Weekend***

Job Openings at PACS
Full-time Development/Marketing Associate – Seeking a candidate who can effectively communicate the PACS mission and vision to our community, constituents, volunteers, and donors. See full job description visit, http://www.pacsonline.org/job-openings.

*This Weekend***

*This Weekend***