Press Forward

DAVIS, OKLA. – On Sept. 21, the Arbuckle View Seventh-day Adventist Church held a celebratory event for their 10th anniversary. They celebrated the joining of the Davis and Sulphur churches 10 years ago, the completion of their new building, as well as their exciting future together as one church family.

Following opening hymns, Ricky Seiler shared the story of how the Arbuckle View church began. The generous gift from the late Carroll Shoffner and building delays helped facilitate the joining of the Sulphur and Davis churches. After the heartening story and sharing of memories, Seiler introduced Carroll Shoffner’s wife, JoDee Shoffner. She played one of Carroll’s favorite hymns, “Shall We Gather At The River” on her violin.

Daniel Ortega, the first pastor of Arbuckle View, was a guest speaker at the event. One of the experiences he shared was when he was mistaken for the pastor’s son by one of the church members. Ortega encouraged the church’s efforts to pray for the Holy Spirit and reach out to the community.

Head Elder Dan Braun shared about the church board’s prayer journal. The church board had been praying for the filling of the Holy Spirit, and for God to reveal how to become involved within the Davis and Sulphur communities. Braun followed this with a re-dedication for the church and an invitation to join in praying for those important topics.

James Shires, Oklahoma Conference president, came to enjoy the festivities along with many families who are acquainted with the church members.

By Lisa Anthony