Texas Conference Educators Refreshed & Renewed

ROUND ROCK, TEX. – Just before the school year began, Texas Conference educators and their families enjoyed some time to “Refresh & Renew” at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, July 28-31, 2025. Keynote speaker Carlton P. Byrd, Southwest Region Conference president, encouraged the “10-month evangelists” to let the Lord guide them as they lead His children. 

CPR courses allowed educators to update their certifications. Breakout sessions provided learning tools. A “make-it, take-it” room offered tools and supplies to create things for their classrooms and so much more. Everything was designed to affirm the educators and encourage them as they were set to begin a new school year. “We know how hard our educators work,” said Kisha Norris, Texas Conference vice president for education. “Refresh & Renew was our way to restore them physically, mentally and spiritually before they headed back to the classroom to teach and witness to their students.” 

On the final day, service pins were given to 112 educators, recognizing those with five or more years of service. Impressively, 46 of them had 15 years or more of service, and Ruth Walker topped the list with 45 years of service.

The event concluded with a Commissioned Ministry of Teaching ceremony. Fifty-one candidates were commissioned, representing 746 combined years of educational service. During the ceremony, educators affirmed their call to educational ministry, recognizing it as a gift from the Holy Spirit.

“It has been almost 10 years since we had an educators’ family retreat and more than 10 years since we held an educators’ commissioning service,” Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes remarked. “We appreciate opportunities to acknowledge the wonderful work our educators do, as they are truly on the frontlines of a 10-month evangelistic series.”

“Closing the retreat with the commissioning ceremony was deeply affirming and reflective,” shared Bradley Colvin from Burton Adventist Academy in Arlington, Tex. “I left feeling renewed in my calling and thankful to be surrounded by a community devoted to Christ-centered education.”

“The commissioning ceremony was very significant and special for me,” Ana Luna, small school support, added. “It reminded me of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28. We are not just teachers. We are educators of the highest order who represent Jesus in His saving ministry.”

Yefferson Mercado from Houston Adventist Academy shared, “The commissioning ceremony was so much more than just an event for me. It was a powerful confirmation of the call God has placed on my heart and life to serve the children and youth.”

As our educators work, day in and day out, in their respective classrooms, would you join us in continuing to affirm the educators and the schools they represent? Consider sponsoring a student; paying for a field trip, student lunches or extra school supplies; or sharing your talents as a volunteer. “Together As One,” we can make an eternal and generational difference.

By Tamara Michalenko Terry

Director for Events and

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