Loving God Through Loving others: Sabbath School and Community Services Workshop

From May 17-19, more than 70 ministry leaders and church members gathered at Nosoca Pines Ranch (NPR) for a spiritually enriching retreat under the themes “Faith in Action: Serving Together” and “Living Christ’s Method Alone.” Leaders representing Sabbath School and Community Services came together for a weekend of inspiration, training, and fellowship.

Guest speaker Phillip Samaan, D.Min. (pictured in gray suit, above right), delivered a series of powerful messages throughout the weekend. He opened on Friday evening with “The Four S’s of Impacting Society,” urging listeners to live lives of meaningful Christian witness. Other presenters included Ignacio Goya, Director of the Center for Community Change at the Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University, and Cesar Perozo, Carolina Conference Sabbath School Director.

The retreat schedule included times of worship, breakout sessions, and recreation. After Friday registration, participants were welcomed with praise and prayer before gathering for the evening message. Sabbath morning began with worship and continued with a variety of focused workshops. The afternoon allowed time for rest and fellowship, including hayrides, pontoon boat rides, and music by harpist Sherrilyn Samaan. Sabbath closed with recreational activities at the pool and gym.

Workshops for Sabbath School leaders were held in the NPR Chapel under the theme “Faith in Action.” John Hudgins of Upward Seventh-day Adventist Church led a timely session addressing artificial intelligence in ministry, encouraging leaders to embrace relevant tools for mission. Other sessions focused on nurturing spiritually grounded children, the emotional health of leaders, and the unique challenges faced by women in spiritual leadership, presented by Denise Barnwell of Upward Church.

While Sabbath School sessions were underway in the chapel, Community Services leaders met in the NPR Cafeteria for a series of workshops centered on “Living Christ’s Method Alone.” Topics included regional service opportunities, strategies for bridging gaps between churches and their communities, navigating resistance to change, and reimagining the Great Commission through service-based ministry.

The retreat concluded with a Community Services Federation Board meeting, affirming a united commitment to expand Christ-centered ministry across the Carolinas.

Many attendees described the weekend as a spiritual reset—an opportunity not just to receive training, but to be renewed in their calling. One participant remarked, “This was a reminder that effective ministry doesn’t start with programs—it starts with Christ’s method, lived out in love.”

—by Esmeralda Paulino