Roswell English Church Celebrates a Season of Faith and Fellowship
The Roswell English Seventh-day Adventist Church enjoyed a busy and meaningful spring season filled with special programs, baptisms, community outreach and celebrations of student achievement.
On Sabbath, March 28, children and youth from Roswell Adventist Elementary School (RAES) and the church presented a drama titled Glorious Day, depicting Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. The program was coordinated and directed by Monica Gonzales, teacher aide at RAES. A tomb set, constructed with the help of Johnny Gonzales, provided a memorable backdrop for the presentation and helped bring the story of Jesus’ resurrection to life for the congregation.
The church celebrated the baptism of Caleb Magdaleno on Sabbath, April 4. Magdaleno, a RAES student, first expressed interest in baptism during Bible studies. As he completed the final lesson, Magdaleno eagerly asked, “When can I get baptized?” Pastor Ken Davis had the privilege of baptizing him as family, friends and church members rejoiced in his decision to follow Christ.
Just two weeks later, on April 18, the church celebrated another baptism. Juan Soltero, an IT technician for the Roswell Independent School District, was baptized after years of attending church with his wife and son. Soltero had previously completed a series of Bible studies with Debbie Ramirez and recently made the decision to publicly commit his life to Christ. When Soltero shared his decision with his wife, she was overjoyed. Soltero has also faithfully volunteered his technical expertise in the church’s audiovisual ministry for several years.
Community outreach was another highlight of the season. On Friday, April 24, RAES hosted a spring social for local homeschool families. Thanks to the efforts of the Ryberg family and many volunteers, the event welcomed more than 60 parents and children. The gathering provided an opportunity to build relationships, share information about Adventist education and distribute school brochures to interested families.
The season concluded with a special recognition service on Sabbath, May 2, honoring three graduating high school seniors. The church celebrated Aubrey Magdaleno, who plans to pursue training as a surgical technician in Carlsbad, N.M.; Zethly Torres, who will study biology at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, N.M.; and Uriel Valero, who plans to enter military service. The congregation joined together in praying for God’s guidance and blessings as these young people begin the next chapter of their lives.
Through worship, baptisms, outreach and celebration, the church continues to witness God’s leading and blessing in the lives of its members and community.
By Tom Jordan
