The North Pacific Union Gleaner for 1984 - Vol. 79 - No. 21

36 Pages·2013·6.92 MB·English

No Room for Jan "Please God, don't let me break down
here. Please let me get to the privacy of my
car. Please, oh! please, dear God!" Jan
By Patricia White raced blindly across the parking lot — the
hot tears streaming down her face, great
sobs choking in her throat, her poor heart
crushed within her.
It had been three years since Jan had been
in church — three long years. Three years
of hell on earth. Suffering terrible allergies
to husband, home, her own clothing, her
food, bed and the very air she had to
breathe. It had been a long, hard fight —
every lonely step of the way. No one
seemed to understand her plight — not fam-
ily, friends, or even her own doctor.
Then Jan met others with similar allergies.
They began to draw strength and courage
from each other. Each of these had ex-
perienced a great loneliness and mental
anguish and a cutting off from the bustling
world around them.
Jan calls, writes, or visits these lonely,
despairing souls she hears about. She
understands their plight as perhaps no other
could. Perhaps this is the work God has
designed for her.
Jan has the love of God to sustain her but
sometimes she feels the need of someone,
Jan glanced anxiously at her watch. The appearing lady gave her a look that seemed "someone with skin on," to touch her life
service would be starting soon. She had to say "No room here" and she pushed her with kind words, human warmth, and
timed her arrival very carefully this morn- Bible onto the empty seat beside her. Jan friendly smiles.
ing. By now everyone would probably be hurried breathlessly up the aisle and down Will Jan find the courage to try church
seated. She'd just quietly slip into an again with much the same result — a cool again? I sincerely hope and pray that she
empty seat. She hoped there would be one stare and a purse or a Bible pushed will! _ 1,4
near the open door. deliberately and firmly onto the empty seat.
"Please, Lord," she cried in her heart, "Surely there is room for me
"please let me tolerate the closeness of the somewhere," Jan thought as panic began to
air, the many perfumes, hair sprays, after- rise. Her heart was pounding so loudly in
shave lotions, the building materials and her ears that it seemed everyone must be
things. It has been so long — so very long able to hear the wild thumping. GleNorth aPacificn Union eConferrence
— since I have been able to come to church. Jan started up another aisle — more
And, Lord, I feel a special need to be in purses, more Bibles, more unfriendly stares.
Your house today." "It must be me," her mind reasoned, "I
Jan hurried through the church door and think they are afraid of me!" (USPS 394-560)
Member Associated Church Press
observed that the church was nearly full. She "You're devil-possessed, my dear. No
Address all correspondence to:
started nervously up the aisle, breathing a one can have allergies to so many different GLEANER
silent prayer, "Where, Lord. Where?" things! You'd better call in the ministers for North Pacific Union Conference
As Jan approached an empty seat, a stern- prayer. You get down on your knees and P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216
[phone]
stay on your knees until the devil flees" —
words spoken by a beloved Bible teacher. November 5, 1984(cid:9) Vol. 79, Number 21
Patricia White writes from Hillsboro, Ore. The recollection of those words still brought Editor, Morten Juberg
The story is true but the names have been pain to Jan's heart. Assistant Editor, Ed Schwisow
Published by the North Pacific Union Con-
changed. "I've got to get out of here," she moaned.
ference of Seventh-day Adventists
Please Note—Every reasonable effort is
made to screen both editorial and advertising
materials and to avoid error in this publica-
tion. But the North Pacific Union Confer-
ence GLEANER does not accept responsi-
About the Cover bility for categorical or typographical errors,
nor for advertisers' claims.(cid:9) Litho U.S.A. CP35601
Second-class postage paid at College Place,
This picture taken by Dick Duerksen was not a contest entry. We purchased it separately to il- Washington. Published semimonthly at
lustrate an article in this issue about flying in Southeast Alaska. Color Press, except one issue in December.
The airplane is one that Ketchikan Pastor Michael L. Nickless built. Nickless is shown taking off Subscription, $6.50 per year.
from the Amakuk Arm of Lake Nerka, which is 45 miles northwest of Dillingham. POSTMASTERS: Send form 3579 to North
Duerksen is the former Youth director of the North Pacific Union Conference and is presently Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box 397, Col-
director of Enrollment Services at Pacific Union College. lege Place, Washington 99324.
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 2
were so disappointed. them and invite them to accept Jesus (in their
We heard mission reports and how much you hearts) right then, if they have never done so!
Letter gave to build a mission church. ("Feed My Genevieve Gyes
Sheep"?) Portland, Ore.
We heard how you took your motorhome to the
Idaho Camp Meeting. ("Feed My Sheep"?)
We heard reports on P.R.E.A.C.H. and the
Letters are welcomed for publication. The
Quiet Hour Echoes. ("Feed My Sheep"?)
editor reserves the right to reject letters and
We left — still hungering for the truths in God's
where necessary, to edit for continuity and
space requirements. Letters must be signed Word.(cid:9) David A. Graves
and should not be over 250 words in length Cusick, Wash.
except, where, in the editor's discretion, more ' 11,10 We don't feel that a wholesale indictment
space is available. Address letters to Editor, of guest speakers is warranted. Naturally, there
Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216. are exceptions such as referred to by Reader
Graves. However, it has been our experience
in listening to countless guest speakers in many Saturn will be setting so soon after sunset you
areas of the Northwest, that they do preach the probably can't see it. Look for Venus in the SW
No Day Desert! word and they do "feed my sheep." near horizon. Jupiter will be a little farther to the
. . . The article about "Adult Sabbath School The letter struck a responsive note with our south, and a little higher in the sky. Mars is in
Blues" has much good advice, but the first three able secretary and her timely comments follow. the SW — 14 way up from the horizon. Mercury,
too, is in the evening skies, and may be visible
paragraphs grieved this Sabbath school lover so
after the middle of the month.
deeply that it was difficult to go on reading. In
my more than 75 years of Sabbath school atten- Second the Motion About 1 'A hours after sunset, in the southern
skies, look for Vega (W — I4 way up from the
dance in several states, I have never once felt that I'd like to "second the motion" in David horizon), Altair (SSW — 1/2 way up), Deneb
it was "a journey through a dry desert with no Graves' letter, but amend it a bit with a plea to (slightly west of sky center), and Fomalhaut (SSE
oasis in sight," nor have I "come out of this ALL pastors — not just when there are guest — near horizon). In the northern skies, look for
period dried up and spongelike," longing "for speakers — and for EVERY sermon. Capella (NE near horizon), Arcturus (WNW —
living water that can fill our souls." I know we have to have some Sabbath sermons near horizon), the Dippers, and Cassiopeia (above
No matter how poorly conducted the Sabbath focused on special topics; perhaps Christian Polaris).
school is, I believe the living water is there for education, health ministries work, Pathfinder Day, About 1% hours before sunrise, in the southern
the taking. I have even heard people say that if Ingathering emphasis, etc. skies, look for Aldebaran (W — 'A way up), Rigel
they were not able to attend both Sabbath services, But what if there is someone in the congrega- (SW —'k way up), Betelgeuse (SW — nearly 1/2
they would choose the Sabbath school. Hopeful- tion who is visiting the church for the first time, way up) (both of Orion), Sirius (SSW — 'A way
ly most Sabbath schools have good teachers who is not a Christian, and may NEVER come again? up), Castor and Pollux (SW —'k way up), Pro-
are well prepared to bring out lessons that help I'd like to see every sermon include an invita- cyon (SSW — 1/2 way up), Regulus (SE — 1/2 way
in daily living. I wouldn't miss our class period tion to accept Jesus Christ as one's personal up) (handle of the sickle), and Spica (ESE — near
for anything. Savior. It wouldn't have to take more than a few horizon). In the northern skies, look for Capella
Does routine have to be uninteresting? Don't moments. If something out of the ordinary is (WNW — nearly 2h way up) and Arcturus (E —
we welcome it in the church service? Don't many planned for the sermon (and the invitation can't % way up).
of our leaders look back on their home routine be given at the "logical" time), welcome the peo-
with nostalgia? Of course, for the sake of interest ple and explain briefly that a special topic has to Information supplied by Earl L. Shepard,
routine can change. For instance, our Sabbath be discussed that day, but then tell them God loves Pendleton, Ore.
school officers sometimes turn the program over
to the young people. Other times children come
in and give the special music.
Yes, the Sabbath school needs to grow. And
we do see growth as time goes on. For me the
somewhat-new Mission Spotlight is a highlight
of each quarter.
Annual GLEANER Offering
I hope that those who are active in Sabbath
school work will profit from the good counsel
given in "Overcoming the Adult Sabbath School November 17, 1984
Blues." If all work toward the goal of improve-
ment, our Sabbath schools will be soul-winning
centers.(cid:9) Mrs. E. M. Johnson
Jacksonville, Ore.
Why does the GLEANER need a Your local conference pays for your
Who Is Arnold Barrett? I Know! special annual offering? Actually, it's subscription. They pay in cool, hard-
simple. It's not because of color photos earned Adventist dollars, $6.50 each
Dr. Arnold S. Barrett graduated from Loma
Linda School of Health in 1982 with a doctorate on the cover (those are usually covered year. Twenty-eight cents for the issue
in Health Science. This past year he taught at by the sale of color ads on the back you hold in your hands. Not your money.
WWC on a one-year contract in the Health cover; the cost of printing is the same But the church's because your church in-
Science and PE Department.
with or without color front covers.) sists that you know what's going on.
He is now associated with Wellsource, Inc.,
owned and operated by Dr. Don and Phyllis Hall It's not because our issues are too The offering Nov. 17 goes to your
in Clackamas, Ore. large. As it is, we have to use a verbal conference for one purpose — to cover
He, too, is wondering how he ever got in shoehorn to include all that makes this some of the expense of bringing the
Portland Adventist Medical news.
magazine a representative news source. GLEANER to 32,000 Northwest Adven-
Dorothy M. Miller
College Place, Wash. The GLEANER needs an annual of- tist households. Some may not afford to
fering for one reason only — because give $6.50 this Sabbath. So make the
We wonder too.
every Adventist in the Northwest 17th a "THANKSGIVING SABBATH"
Feed My Sheep receives the magazine, regardless of their as you give your offering as a response
ability to pay. That's why it's free. But to the good news you've been reading in
So many ministers do not ask their guest
speakers what they are going to speak about. the bills stop here. the GLEANER all year.
This is my experience and reason for this letter.
Dear Guest Speaker:
We visited our brother and sister-in-law, who
are non-Adventists (but are now searching for
Christ). We took them to church to hear you, and
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 3
Pastor Michael Nickless loosens the tie-downs on his plane preparatory to flying to one of his appointments. He hooks a pickup to the trailer
and backs it into the water.
Growth Continues in Alaska's
Southeast Forested Section
By Morten Juberg
Alaska is a study in contrasts. The terrain I watched fishing boats in lonely coves, and us." We met with a small but enthusiastic
ranges from spongy tundra pockmarked with I noted with interest the tugs with heavily group at the log camp church.
thousands of small lakes in the north to the loaded tows on their way north. Practically Back in Ketchikan Nickless told me about
heavily forested southeast. Tall peaks, white all of Alaska's northbound sea traffic makes a project of the local church in cooperation
with perpetual glaciers, tower over valleys its way through the sheltered Inside Passage with the Ministerial Association.
where rivers meander their way to the sea. by Ketchikan. "Twice a month we feed an evening meal
It is this editor's privilege on occasion to Deftly Nickless dropped his plane down to hungry people in the city," he said.
visit Alaska, and this trip took me to the Ket- on the water, and soon we stood on the floats "These are persons out of work, transients,
chikan area. Ketchikan is an unusual town, of the log camp. In order to facilitate mov- and others who might be hungry. We've fed
consisting mainly of one long street that runs ing the camp from location to location, from 18 to 40 people. We're not talking
about 20 miles north and the same distance homes, logging office, school and church about just a little bowl of soup. It would be
south from the city. are built on huge logs cabled together securely. more like 60 meals, since they come back
Pastor Michael Nickless and his wife Children at these camps all wear life vests for refills."
Lynn met me at the airport, which is located unless they have demonstrated their swim- Sunday morning found me aboard the
on an island. One takes the ferry to the city ming abilities. "Goose," a twin-engine flying boat en route
proper. "We have to swim over there," one to Craig, some 50 miles west on Prince of
An hour or so later I watched Nickless young lass told me, pointing to the shore, Wales Island. Spray from the hull covers the
loosen the ties on his float plane, hook his many yards distant. I thought to myself that windows on takeoff, but clears as we take
pickup to the trailer on which the plane sat, I might be confined to a life jacket if I lived to the air.
and carefully back into the water. here. The many small wooded islands, now
In a few moments we were airborne on On Sabbath afternoon we flew a more cir- under heavily overcast skies, show where
our way to Fire Cove, the site of the J. R. cuitous route to the camp, this time by air logging operations have cleared round or
Gildersleeve Logging Camp. From the air taxi, dropping off passengers at lonely stops. elongated shapes from the forests. Logging
"You can't depend on the weather here," demands a good system of roads to haul the
Morten Juberg is editor of the GLEANER. Nickless told me, "and I reserved space for logs to the water dumps, and I see the lanes
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 4
answers my unspoken question of how a
small group can undertake such a project.
"The $250,000 is based on the state fire
marshal's valuation, which includes
materials and labor," he said. "We have
had all volunteer labor and we got good
prices on materials."
Hixson's father-in-law, Bill Goodman,
Salmon, Idaho, works on Maranatha Flights
International projects. He asked for a set of
the plans ahead of time and said he would
help. This proved to be one of the under-
statements of the year.
Working through a relative, he purchased
materials at a low cost, loaded them on a
big truck, and ferried them to Craig. In ad-
dition, he brought two of his helpers with
him and paid their wages. He acted as
superintendent on the project.
Many others showed the same benevolent
spirit. Giving help were Henry and Wilma
Mittleider, Bellingham, Wash.; and Maurice
Foland and Albert and Wilma Schultz, all
from Salmon. We didn't ask, but suspect
that Goodman had something to do with this
too.
Ole and Edith Hamilton from Twin Falls
were also present, Ole getting started on the
wiring. Hixson said Tony Lambert, a
Volunteer workers on a recent Sunday on the Craig Church included, from the left, Rob relative of the Hamiltons from Juneau, was
Stepanishen, Lee Jensen, Bill Goodman, Ole Hamilton, Mark Torkelsen and Pastor Rollin Hix- coming to complete the wiring. Mike Miller,
son and his son. Seaside, Ore., saw an appeal in the
GLEANER and will be doing the plumbing.
Frank and Embert James, former
residents, came by to observe the project and
gave a generous donation to the new church.
Members were able to sell the old church
and, with the donated labor, will probably
have the church paid for when it is com-
pleted next spring.
As one of the members remarked, "When
we pound in the last nail, we will have the
church paid for." Hixson said the members
planned to move into the church this fall.
For the Craig members, the new church
will be more like a cathedral after the
meager quarters they have met in previous-
ly. The 4,400-square-foot building is L-
shaped, with an education section and the
sanctuary occupying the two wings. The
seating capacity is to be 90, with ample aux-
iliary rooms.
It is a dream of the congregation to have
a church school sometime in the future. The
commitment of members to Christian educa-
The new Craig, Alaska, church now has most of the exterior work completed. Another wing
can't be seen in this picture. tion is evident in the fact that six students
from the small church attended Walla Walla
College last year. This year the representa-
tion is four students.
that snake around the hillsides. of Wales Island, and it hasn't been too dif-
The projections for the future of Craig are
In Craig the pastor's wife, Kathleen, meets ficult to link the logging roads. Now it is
bright, with the state appropriating funds for
me, and as we drive to the new church under possible to drive from Craig to the northern
more roads. In addition, there is talk of a
construction, she points out new buildings tip of the island 104 miles away. Signs of
new ferry terminal at Tolstoy Bay, where
in Craig. growth are everywhere.
the large Seattle-Haines ferries would stop.
I recall that on my last visit some eight At the church I visit with Pastor Rollin
Craig may have been a sleepy place with
or nine years back, Craig seemed to be a Hixson. Though the congregation has only
an insignificant Adventist church in the past,
sleepy fishing village. But this is true no 29 members, they are building a church
but those days are gone. 1,4i
longer. Logging has been heavy on Prince which will be valued at $250,000. Hixson
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 5
Their Young Voices Still Speak
Darla loved life. port Milo. Oh, she was well aware of many flying as a bank courier for Desert Flying
Darla loved God. of its problems, but she was sure her Good Service from Reno to Tonapah, Nev., with
Darla loved Milo. Friend, God, was capable of taking care of two passengers. They were caught in a
On Sept. 8 an automobile accident ended them if His human helpers would cooperate. storm, the plane crashed and all three were
her life at 15. It had been a full life, a life Darla wished all her contemporaries could killed.
filled with faith, friends, music, concern and have the opportunity to attend Milo. A Darla Services were conducted for the
love. Those who knew her were warmed by Dahl Memorial Scholarship Fund has been family. Interment was at the Walla Walla
her smile and inspired by her reflected love set up to give a hand to students who need Mountain View Cemetery, Walla Walla,
of God. Introducing it, and many of her classmates have com- Wash.
her Best Friend to mitted themselves to continuing her sharing His parents, Jim
her human friends of God's personal caring with their fellow and Alice Cashatt,
was natural to her. students. both teachers at
She wanted them to We give a special thanks to those who are Hood View Junior
share her "fulness helping, and to those who have taken the Academy, Boring,
of joy" in His time to let us, her parents, know that the Ore., wish to convey
presence. short life of one dedicated young Christian to friends through-
She thought Milo was not in vain. out the Northwest
was as close to Alfred and Lorene Dahl and elsewhere that
heaven as one was Milo Academy "We can have peace
likely to get on Days Creek, Ore. of heart, knowing
earth, and did not the effect of Chris-
Darla Dahl Berton Cashatt
see how any sincere tian education on
Christian could want to close a school with Bert. We so much appreciate the strong
such a location and potential. It was obvious The family of Berton Cashatt wishes to spiritual influence of Christian teachers at
to her, though, that the devil would want to announce that the Aviation Department of Walla Walla College."
be rid of such a place. With her charac- Walla Walla College has set up a memorial Contributions may be sent to: Berton
teristic prayer-preparation, she wrote letters, fund in Berton's name. He was a 1983 Cashatt Memorial Fund, in care of the Avia-
organized a day of fasting and prayer, graduate with a major in aviation. tion Department, Walla Walla College, Col-
and did everything she could to sup- As a commercial pilot, on Oct. 2 he was lege Place, WA 99324.
Refugees Need Help
By E. A. White
During the past few years in Oregon, and If you as a business person or private in- washing, and miscellaneous jobs.
particularly in Portland, a large number of dividual have need for the following services Please call [phone] or write to
Vietnamese refugees have become our or would like to contribute equipment or Pastor Sau Duong, Vietnamese Company,
neighbors. We are thankful that the Adven- funds to assist in purchasing equipment, the 6611 S.E. Powell, Portland, OR 97206.
tist Church has a strong witness among those Vietnamese Company would appreciate The purpose of this article is merely to
coming into the city monthly. Sau Duong, your getting in touch with them: janitorial make you aware of this need as a referral
Vietnamese pastor, is doing an outstanding — commercial or private, sewing/laundry, service. Thank you for your interest and
job of assisting many of these people with landscaping/yard work, farming, cook/dish- concern.
their physical needs as they settle down to
reestablish themselves in a new area.
This is the major reason for this appeal.
Here are members or prospective members
who want to work and need to work to make
the transition much easier, but for many of
them a job is very hard to obtain. Thus,
many of them have to keep moving from
place to place in order to survive.
There are approximately 10,000 Viet-
namese in the general Portland area. Out of
this number, the Adventist Vietnamese
Company in Portland has 67 members and
another 100 who attend weekly.
E. A. White is director of Human Rela-
tions/Regional Affairs of the North Pacific
Union Conference.
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 6
Weakened by Myasthenia Gravis
Renton Member Strengthens Fellow Sufferers
By Margaret Winings
When Marian Forschler awakes each the backing of the Myasthenia Gravis Foun-
morning, she faces more uncertainties than dation, that any real progress has been made
the rest of us can even imagine. in diagnosis and treatment.
They are basic uncertainties. Can she get Typical treatment is a regimen of drugs.
out of bed? Can she walk? Can she breathe? Some patients do well enough to be able to
Forschler is a victim of myasthenia work at about 80 percent of their former
gravis, which in Latin and Greek means capacity. A small number respond so well
severe muscle weakness. It is this relative- that they can work full-time if they rest
ly rare condition that left Forschler of Ren- enough and pace themselves.
ton unable to pursue a nursing career after Steroids, drugs that suppress the body's
finishing her university degree in 1970. immune system, are sometimes prescribed.
"Myasthenia is the invisible disability," Weight gain and fluid retention are frequent
said Forschler, who has recently been ap- Marian Forschler with her pet cat: "Myas- side effects. The first time on steroids (for
pointed to organize a local chapter of the thenia is the invisible disability." one year) Forschler's weight zoomed up 50
Myasthenia Gravis Foundation. "Nothing Photo courtesy of Mark Morris. pounds. With a second round of steroids,
shows and people have a hard time under- lasting four years, her weight skyrocketed
standing." Diagnosis Difficult another 90 pounds.
Diagnosis is difficult and often traumatic
Effects Uncertain She's Realistic
for myasthenics because the condition is so
For Forschler it means being uncertain on rare (1 in 10,000 to 40,000 people), and cer- Forschler has learned to be realistic about
any given day how much she will actually tain symptoms are so much like those of her capabilities. She cannot stand up before
be able to accomplish. Some days mean ex- other conditions. Double vision and a droop- a group to speak. She remains seated in
treme fatigue requiring absolute bed rest. ing eyelid are often early symptoms. Slur- church for hymns and prayer. When she
Other days it is hard to swallow, to chew, red speech, difficulty swallowing, chewing goes into a store with her cane she im-
to breathe. A cane, and sometimes her and breathing are other indications. mediately surveys the store for resting
wheelchair, are necessities for any trip out Weakness in the limbs and neck are also places. Holding a baby is out unless she is
of the house. common. sitting down.
Recently, Forschler's symptoms have Although mainly affecting voluntary She also has a list of things she can still
been less severe and she has chosen to turn muscles, myasthenia sometimes affects in- do when she needs to rest her body —
what energy she does have toward starting voluntary muscles as well, manifesting itself reading (until her eyes blur), crocheting,
a Puget Sound chapter of the national in tachycardia (rapid heart beat) and faint- talking on the phone. "But when I am hav-
organization. Five to eight signatures were ing. Onset of myasthenia may be sudden or ing trouble breathing I just have to rest and
needed to start a group here. Forschler, aid- gradual. do nothing else," she explained.
ed by Kirkland neurologist Dr. A. Tom Col- A pattern of symptoms is usually Isolation is often a problem for those
lins and his office manager, was able to established in two years, Forschler said. myasthenics seriously disabled by their con-
come up with 14. An organizational meeting Myasthenia usually hits women in their late dition. "I have always known active peo-
already has been held. teens and early 20s. Symptoms in men often ple and now I can't do like I used to," she
"I'd like to see this group give direct ser- don't show up until they reach their 50s, she pointed out. "Most people see other peo-
vice to myasthenics both through a newslet- said. ple in the process of living out their daily
ter and by setting up a support group," said In the last couple months Forschler has activities. As a myasthenic you have to work
Forschler, who also did the initial work on fielded telephone calls from two women, real hard to minimize that isolation."
a chapter in New Mexico in 1975. Educating one from Carnation and one from Oak Har- Forschler has done just that. In addition
newly diagnosed myasthenics and their bor, who have a tentative diagnosis of to her work for the MG Foundation, she also
families is crucial, she explained. Often it myasthenia. "This is a terrible time for does some freelance writing, has organized
is also necessary to educate physicians since them," she said. "A support group will help two writers groups in recent years and works
many have never seen a case before, she them know others are struggling just as they on her church newsletter. Last month she
said. are." acquired a word processor which has been
a big help in coping with her writing and
Normal Problems
newsletter work. It is this word processor
It will also let them know that self-doubts plus her greater energy these days that she
Margaret Winings is a free-lance writer from and attacks by others on their mental health hopes will enable her to get a local chapter
Renton, Wash. , and the article originally ap- are a normal part of this abnormal time. It of the MGF going.
peared in the Renton Daily Record Chroni- is common during diagnosis of myasthenia "This will be a positive group experience
cle. We appreciate the courtesy of Ms. for doctors to believe or indicate that the pa- and not a maudlin gathering of the af-
Winings and the paper in allowing us to tient's problem is emotional rather than flicted," Forschler was quick to point out.
reprint the article. Marian Forschler is also physical, Forschler explained. Anyone interested in additional information
a free-lance writer and is communication Although first diagnosed in the 1600s, it about the local MGF chapter being formed
secretary of the Renton Church. has been only the last 20 to 30 years, with can contact Forschler at (206)235-14314
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 7
The Menace
of Moderation
By Theodore Carcich
An average of 500 people die each week
from alcohol-related automobile accidents.
Another 20,000 are crippled or injured. But
a national ho-hum mentality continues stack-
ing consumer's shelves with potent bottled-
liquor calculated to transform otherwise ra-
tional drivers into befuddled killers.
Before anyone yawns and says "So what
else is new?" consider Washington State
Patrol spokesman Ron McDonald's obser-
vation. He states that "during any 24-hour
period in Washington state there are an
estimated 33,000 drunk drivers on the
road." Obviously, other states have a pro-
portionate share on their highways.
What could this mean for you or some
member of your family? Since only one out
of every 2,000 drunk-drivers is ever ar-
rested, and since approximately every 10th row, the escalating drunk-driver problem ty, disease, employee and managerial inef-
car that passes you has a stupefied driver creates an annual economic cost that runs ficiency, poverty, wrecked homes and
behind the wheel, the chance of becoming into the billions. In one way or another, all wrecked characters — is financed by
a highway statistic is very personal and real. of us pay a stiff and tragic price for licens- moderate drinkers. If the large number of
None of the 500 victims who died this past ing drivers who insist on mixing alcohol and moderate drinkers would stop drinking, the
week planned to do so, but they did. Nor gasoline. notorious liquor traffic would collapse. Un-
did any of the 20,000 who were crippled and Some claim that out of the 61 million questionably, moderate drinkers are a very
mangled plan to be so, but they were. Why? drinkers in the country, 51 million are mere- real part of the problem rather than the
Because some individuals rationalized that ly "social drinkers" (moderates) and as such answer to the problem.
moderate drinking and driving were com- constitute no problem. The remaining 10 Whatever their personal drinking practice
patible, and that no one should deprive them million, they say, are excessive drinkers may be, medical authorities agree that
of this right. Conversely, each of us has a (alcoholics) and as such constitute the real moderate drinking (1) blunts the critical
constitutional right to "life," and no problem. Really? sense, (2) impairs the judgment, (3) reduces
drunken driver should be licensed to deprive the ability to react and coordinate effi-
No National Problem?
us of that right. ciently. And it has been established that this
Besides the ensuing agony, pain and sor- The claim that the 51 million moderate dangerous state of incompetence is reached
drinkers constitute no national problem must long before the actual state of intoxication
be vigorously challenged. All excessive arrives.
Theodore Carcich, a retired vice president drinking begins with moderate drinking. It takes just a few drinks to inflate the
of the General Conference, resides in Col- Furthermore, the drink evil — with its drinker's self-assurance considerably, while
ton, Wash. devastating contribution to crime, immorali- at the same time diminishing his judgment
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 8
of distance and hand-eye coordination The cruelty, wife abuse, child abuse, incest ual and idolaters, is also available for the
significantly. So it is not the disorganized and sexual permissiveness for which drunkard. Listen to Paul's emphatic declara-
drunk, who can't even insert the starting key divorces are granted starts at such homes. tion of emancipation for those trapped in this
into place, that is the greatest menace to life and other evil habits:
Causes Crime
and limb on the highway. It is the moderate "And such were some of you: but ye are
drinker, who fuzzily considers himself Also, it is an acknowledged fact that so- washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are
capable of superb performance, that madly called moderate drinking is a cause of crime. justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and
careens his car into other vehicles and Alcohol is a principle accomplice in violence by the Spirit of our God." I Corinthians
hurtles himself and his victims into eternity and homicides. Newspapers constantly 6:11.
Along with the liquor industry, some are publish reports of violence resulting from There is no power shortage with God. He
inclined to equate moderate drinking with brawls in taverns, beer parties and even at "saves to the uttermost." Our God does not
"temperance." The liquor industry under- weddings. Just a few "social drinks" under engage in partial solutions or half-way cures.
standably accepts this Aristotelian the belt are capable of transforming ordinari- If the drinker is willing and determined to
definition in order to enhance the consump- ly decent people into mean, belligerent and be saved, and if he adopts responsible
tion of its product. However, moderate con- vicious antagonists. A large number of medical counsel and practices, God will help
sumption of alcoholic beverages is not the murders committed in the nation can be him develop an utter distaste for the vile li-
Biblical or Christian understanding of traced to the brutalizing effects of moderate quid debasing his body, soul and mind.
temperance. drinking. There is no substitute for God. Redemption
As an example, adultery is wrong whether Lastly, moderate drinking adversely af- and restoration is yours, if you want it!
committed moderately or otherwise. From fects spiritual development and religious ex- And what is the responsibility of Seventh-
the Christian viewpoint, there is no such perience. Just a few drinks a day make day Adventists Christians towards these
thing as lying, stealing, slandering, coveting people unconcerned about any pretensions lonely, frustrated and frightened people
or killing moderately. Any such definition to prayer, Bible study or worship they might unable to cope with forces pulling their lives
would be a gross distortion of Christian have had while sober. Alcohol gradually apart? Are we under any obligation to help
beliefs and standards. drowns and paralyzes spiritual aspirations, them? We are. Do we have anything to of-
making religious devotion and worship un- fer them? We do.
Total Abstinence
palatable. Any question in your mind about First of all, both the socially accepted
For the Christian, it is total abstinence that moderate drinking being a devastating moderate drinker and the socially despised
is required. And there are ample Biblical menance? alcoholic need our understanding and com-
reasons why total abstinence is the only In order to enhance this total degradation passion rather than our criticism, our friend-
practice that fulfills the requirements of of the human personality, the liquor industry ship rather than our rejection, our assistance
Christian morality with reference to intox- in the United States spends some $25 million rather than our condemnation. Everyone of
icating beverages. Although a converted annually to advertise its lethal product. Ap- us is under obligation to extend a helping
drunkard can be reclaimed and restored, the pearing in practically every family-related hand to people seeking to extricate
confirmed and unrepenting drunkard will be magazine and newspaper, the ads never themselves from a physical, spiritual and
barred from heaven. See I Corinthians depict the ultimate result of alcohol — mental no-man's land they were tricked in-
6:9-10. disheveled, slovenly, silly men and women, to by a greedy industry.
"Nor drunkards . . . shall inherit the with their slurred and incoherent speech, Secondly, Christian physicians and
kingdom of heaven" means exactly what boisterously staggering and swaggering medical personnel have a responsibility to
it says. The exclusion is emphatic. And cer- down the street. conduct classes and clinics that will educate
tainly no back-door entrance for moderate No not that!! Such truth in advertising to the necessary lifestyle, diet and outdoor
drinkers. It is possible to deceive breath- would hurt liquor sales. So the ads always activities that insure life at its best. We need
analyzers and other tests men use to detect portray poised, masterful masculinity, to share the information, light and counsel
the level of intoxication, but never the Spirit beautifully gowned and meticulously that God has given us.
of God which clearly detects the idols of lust groomed women — all well-behaved and Thirdly, we have a responsibility to ex-
and perverted appetite enshrined in our sober. No sloppy or coarse relationships in press our concern to national, state and com-
hearts. fashionable lounges or in cheap beer joints. munity leaders about a problem that is
If permitted to enter, heaven would be hell No fights, no brawls, no murders. No such devastating our beloved country. By care-
for anyone who, despite the pleadings of the factual pictures, anything but the truth. It fully worded and courteous letters, we can
Holy Spirit, obstinately continued nursing is evident that the liquor industry is smart encourage needed legislation for adequate
a fifth, a six-pack, or a bottle of wine, gin, and the American public most naive. protection against drunken drivers on streets
whiskey and any other intoxicant through These masters of advertising depict drink- and highways. Parents should express their
life. "Be not deceived" is the admonition ing as something smart, sophisticated and sharp disapproval to editors about slanted
of sacred Scripture, and for the following socially desirable at weddings, family re- liquor advertising in family-oriented
reasons. unions, birthday parties, and even at magazines and newspapers. Let them know
Manifestly, it is an established fact that religious seasons as Easter and Christmas. that you resent having your children exposed
even moderate drinking contributes to im- This great volume of deceptive advertising, to ads extolling the virtues of a drug that
morality. It is a principle cause of sexual fmanced largely by the 51 million moderate kills, maims and destroys.
promiscuity. As an aid in seducing innocent drinkers, constitutes a powerful appeal for If we do not act, who will?
young women, its record is both infamous alcoholic consumption, not only to adults, "There is a tendency to become so
and shameful. Under the influence of but to a growing number of teen-agers. For familiar with existing conditions that we lose
moderate drinking people succumb to sex- them alcohol is the ultimate drug problem. sight of the significance of these condi-
ual temptations that they would not if sober. tions. . . How important it is that God's
As a constant aid and essential stock in trade An Appeal messengers call the attention of statesmen,
for the promotion of prostitution, liquor in Is there any hope for the drunkard — of editors, of thinking men everywhere, to
any form has no equal. moderate or excessive? Plenty! The same the deep significance of the drunkenness and
Likewise, much marital infidelity is at- mighty power of God that redeems and violence now filling the land with desola-
tributable to moderate drinking in homes. rescues the adulterer, thief, liar, homosex- tion and death." Temperance, p. 251
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 9
College Professor Joins Pastors
For Evangelistic Series
By Morten Juberg
Walla Walla College Pastor Darold Bigger, right, one of the speakers at the evangelistic meetings at the Coeur d'Alene Church, was joined
by senior theology students Karl Haffner and Dean Tupper in the program of visitation and music.
College professors are often pictured as in South Africa.
living in the upper stories of ivory towers "Andrews University is borrowing me for
and being out of touch with those who plod a quarter for their master of arts extension
the streets below. program at Helderberg College," he said.
This isn't an accurate picture of Dr. John "This is their summer vacation, and pastors
C. Brunt, dean of the School of Theology will be coming from all across South Africa
at Walla Walla College. He recently con- to work on their advanced degrees."
cluded a series of evangelistic meetings at It is no easy task to preach 24 sermons
the Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Church. Joining to the same congregation during a series of
him in the series was Pastor Darold Bigger meetings, but Brunt did it with ease. With
of the College Church. no apparent notes and an open Bible, he
But why should a professor hold faced the audience night after night.
meetings? Pastor Bigger added much to the series,
Brunt said: "I feel all of us need to be in- as well, bringing special music and leading
Mrs. JoAnne Bell, a registered nurse, provided
volved in bringing people to the Lord. It the song services. In addition he provided a health talk on a night that Pastor Darold Big-
renews my spirits. This has been a tremen- a special feature each evening on practical ger had to be absent.
dously rewarding, satisfying and exciting living. His subjects dealt with marriage,
experience. I needed that." parenting, stress management and associated
This is not to say that the theology staff topics.
lat Walla Walla College isn't active in soul Two senior theology students joined
winning. Pastor Bigger reports that one-third Coeur d'Alene Pastor Paul Penno and the
of the baptisms at his church are performed college pair for the series.
by the theology staff. "Dean Tupper and Karl Haffner were in-
Dr. Brunt began his ministry as a pastor volved in all aspects of the program from
in the Southeastern California Conference visiting to music," Brunt added. "They also
and moved to Walla Walla College in 1971. held a Week of Prayer for the elementary
This is the first series he has held since then. school, and the principal said it was one of
"I'm going back to my classroom with a the best ones he had seen."
lot of enthusiasm, especially when we have One interest had been baptized during the
the segment on evangelistic preaching," he meetings and another baptism took place John C. Brunt, left, dean of the Walla Walla
College School of Theology, confers with Paul
noted. Oct. 6. A baptismal class of 10 young adults Penno, pastor of the Coeur d'Alene, Idaho,
However, before facing students in the gave promise for more additions to the Church. Brunt just recently concluded a series
classroom, he will be spending three months church. of meetings for the congregation.
GLEANER November 5 1984 page 10