In 1979, two physicians and a businessman founded a ministry near Hermosa, South Dakota, with a clear vision: to provide a training program that would inspire and equip Seventh-day Adventist young people to serve God. Their goal was to prepare Bible workers, health missionaries, and leaders for the supporting ministries of the church. Since those early days, hundreds of graduates have entered the field as pastors and international missionaries or have launched their own supporting ministries—ranging from wellness centers and schools to radio and TV stations. In every endeavor, the focus remains the same: reaching the world with the Gospel of Jesus and the message of His soon return. Unique Training: The Black Hills School of Massage (BHSOM) In 2014, the Black Hills School of Massage was established to meet the demand for Christ-centered vocational training. It stands as one of the very few programs that intentionally excludes the “New Age” or spiritualistic teachings common in most massage curricula today. Our 650-hour program prepares graduates for licensure in almost every state. More importantly, it empowers them to use their skills as a bridge for health outreach ministry while building a sustainable career. The Heart of the Ministry: The Wellness Center The mainstay of BHHEC is our Wellness Center, which draws guests from around the globe. While many are told by doctors to “eat better” or “exercise more”, nearly 90% of people don’t know where to begin. Our 10-day residential program bridges that gap. We provide the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to see how simple lifestyle changes can optimize health in a short amount of time. We use the N.E.W.S.T.A.R.T. framework to guide this transformation: Nutrition: Delicious, simple, plant-based meals and hands-on cooking schools Exercise: Personalized plans and group walks tailored to each guest’s ability Water: Proper hydration and herbal teas, with a schedule to maintain at home Sunshine: Education on the vital benefits of natural light Temperance: Practicing moderation in the good and abstinence from the harmful Air: Fresh air and proper breathing techniques for vitality Rest: Emphasizing the restorative power of regular sleep Trust in God: Recognizing the Great Physician as the source of all true healing Following the Master’s Method While we are an educational center rather than a medical facility, our mission is rooted in the example of Jesus. As noted in The Ministry of Healing: “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” (p. 143) Through this method, we continue to see lives transformed and hearts opened to the Savior. Shining His Light: 2025-2026 Testimonies of Grace As we reflect on God’s blessings over this past year at the Black Hills Health & Education Center, our hearts overflow with gratitude for His constant guidance. Our primary goal is to point everyone we meet toward Jesus, reflecting the warmth of His love: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). These testimonies illustrate how God is glorified when we cooperate with His plan: From Despair to Hope: One guest arrived believing he was sent to us merely to prepare for death. Instead, he encountered a God who loved him and had the power to heal. Most importantly, he found true rest for his soul. One year later, he is active in his church, remains faithful to the health program, and continues to see his health improve daily. Neighborly Connections: Our community “Harvest Fest” welcomed over 50 neighbors who were surprised to discover the breadth of our ministry. This outreach led to a significant increase in local residents seeking our massage services, personal training, and hydrotherapy treatments. Light at the End of the Tunnel: A guest arrived overwhelmed by stress and depression, unable to see any light in her life. Through the peace of nature, inspiring daily worship, wholesome food, and what she described as the “tangible love and care of the staff,” her perspective shifted. By the time she left, the quiet joy on her face told a story of a heart renewed. A Place to Call Home: God provided much-needed housing for our dedicated staff! We have completed quad-plex apartments, allowing staff members to move from cramped studio spaces into beautiful, two-bedroom homes. Educational Growth: The School of Massage restarted on January 11, 2026, with four students. We are thrilled to announce a new partnership with the Health Sciences Department of Union Adventist University, which will provide clinical training and hours right here on our campus. The Greatest Miracle: While many guests come to Black Hills praying for a physical miracle, the greatest miracle we witness is the moment they realize God’s deep, individual care for them. Each morning, our staff family meets for worship and prayer. We recount praises that, if time allowed, could fill hours of conversation. As we continue through this rebuilding phase, we rest in the promise of Philippians 1:6: “being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;” NKJV “Support Black Hills with your prayers, for God to continue to support the work He entrusted us!” — Leasa Hodges, President of Black Hills Health & Education Center in Hermosa, South Dakota. ASI Mid-America (ASIMA) is a network of professionals and ministries across the Mid-America Union, working together to provide networking, resources, and inspiration to help you turn your workplace into a place of ministry.

Last March, the Kansas-Nebraska Conference hosted a weekend in Kearney filled with learning, fellowship and spiritual growth. Though each of the two groups had their own focus, both gatherings shared the same purpose: strengthening our churches, families and leaders for God’s mission. Hispanic leadership training Guest speaker Pastor Manuel Caro led a powerful weekend centered on how we can work more effectively together as a church through mission, leadership and practical strategies. Many of our leaders arrived with years of experience in evangelism and church work. Yet Pastor Caro reminded everyone that there are always new techniques and better approaches to the work God has called us to do. One of the first principles he shared was the Golden Rule: treat others the way you would like to be treated. This simple but powerful reminder called leaders to serve with compassion, humility and respect. He also emphasized that a true leader builds confidence in their team. Leadership isn’t about giving instructions; it’s about empowering others and cultivating trust. We were also blessed by Pastor Edgar Luna, who joined us all the way from the Michigan Conference to lead worship for the weekend. His praise team created a reverent and uplifting atmosphere that helped prepare hearts to receive God’s message. It was a powerful time of unity and worship. Throughout the training, we explored how every church member has a role to play. Everyone matters in God’s eyes, and we are all called to evangelism. When we work together and use the gifts God has given us, the church becomes stronger and more effective in reaching others. On Sunday, we held a special session for the secretaries and clerks of our Hispanic churches. This training covered essential information for keeping member and non-member records current and accurate. It was a time full of questions, participation and practical learning. We highlighted how important it is that every member is counted and cared for, and we are deeply grateful for these dedicated volunteers who faithfully serve in addition to their other responsibilities. Spouses retreat Though the group was smaller, God’s presence was felt in every session. The speaker addressed topics that resonated with many of the spouses, creating space for encouragement and spiritual growth. Saturday night was especially moving. The ladies gathered for a special prayer meeting, sharing requests, gratitude and burdens for their families, children and personal lives. Together, they placed their fears into God’s hands. It was a sacred and impactful moment, and a beautiful close to a weekend full of blessings. Jasmin Cortes is multilingüal ministries administrative assistant for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

Every church has a story to tell. Whether through writing, photography, video, graphic design or social media, communication plays a vital role in sharing the gospel and connecting people with Christ. Registration is now open for the 2026 Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) Convention, taking place Oct. 15–17 in Orlando, Florida. The annual event brings together communication directors, pastors, educators, writers, photographers, videographers, designers and media professionals for three days of learning, networking and spiritual encouragement. For many Mid-America attendees, the value of SAC extends well beyond the presentations. “The best part about SAC is actually what happens after SAC,” said Saul Dominguez, communication director for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference. “It’s all those connections and all the things you’ve been hearing and learning—you get to go back and start doing them.” Jodi Dossenko, communication director for the Dakota Conference, shared a similar experience: “We’re not just colleagues; we’re friends. We laugh, we pray, we support each other.” Even if you can’t attend this year’s convention, you can still experience many of the sessions through the Adventist Learning Community. The 2025 presentation library includes practical training on storytelling, branding, artificial intelligence and social media ministry. One featured session, “From Clicks to Connection: Making Social Media Work for Good,” by Patricia Maxwell, explores how rhythm, repetition and memorable language patterns can make messages more engaging and impactful. Drawing from marketing, psychology and Scripture, Maxwell demonstrates how carefully chosen words can strengthen faith, build connection and improve message recall. Whether you manage your church’s Facebook page, write a newsletter, preach sermons or create videos, SAC offers practical tools to help you communicate with greater purpose and effectiveness. Learn more about the 2026 convention by visiting the SAC registration website, and start exploring previous presentations through the Adventist Learning Community today.  

Last March, the Kansas-Nebraska Conference hosted a weekend in Kearney filled with learning, fellowship and spiritual growth. Though each of the two groups had their own focus, both gatherings shared the same purpose: strengthening our churches, families and leaders for God’s mission. Hispanic leadership training Guest speaker Pastor Manuel Caro led a powerful weekend centered on how we can work more effectively together as a church through mission, leadership and practical strategies. Many of our leaders arrived with years of experience in evangelism and church work. Yet Pastor Caro reminded everyone that there are always new techniques and better approaches to the work God has called us to do. One of the first principles he shared was the Golden Rule: treat others the way you would like to be treated. This simple but powerful reminder called leaders to serve with compassion, humility and respect. He also emphasized that a true leader builds confidence in their team. Leadership isn’t about giving instructions; it’s about empowering others and cultivating trust. We were also blessed by Pastor Edgar Luna, who joined us all the way from the Michigan Conference to lead worship for the weekend. His praise team created a reverent and uplifting atmosphere that helped prepare hearts to receive God’s message. It was a powerful time of unity and worship. Throughout the training, we explored how every church member has a role to play. Everyone matters in God’s eyes, and we are all called to evangelism. When we work together and use the gifts God has given us, the church becomes stronger and more effective in reaching others. On Sunday, we held a special session for the secretaries and clerks of our Hispanic churches. This training covered essential information for keeping member and non-member records current and accurate. It was a time full of questions, participation and practical learning. We highlighted how important it is that every member is counted and cared for, and we are deeply grateful for these dedicated volunteers who faithfully serve in addition to their other responsibilities. Spouses retreat Though the group was smaller, God’s presence was felt in every session. The speaker addressed topics that resonated with many of the spouses, creating space for encouragement and spiritual growth. Saturday night was especially moving. The ladies gathered for a special prayer meeting, sharing requests, gratitude and burdens for their families, children and personal lives. Together, they placed their fears into God’s hands. It was a sacred and impactful moment, and a beautiful close to a weekend full of blessings. Jasmin Cortes is multilingüal ministries administrative assistant for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.