At a time of year when "peace on Earth" is supposed to be a dominant theme, pundits are proclaiming a "war on Christmas" in many parts of the world.
Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
While it is not a hospital, many have testified that the love and warmth experienced in churches can be a healing balm for the soul. Oscar and Eugenia Giordano, both medical doctors who agree with the concept, are working to help Seventh-day Adventist churches in Africa become "support centers for the communities in the fight against HIV and AIDS."
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
"Our goal is straightforward -- to share the gospel of Jesus Christ right on the Inca Trail," said Melchor Ferreyra, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Peru.
Cuzco, Peru
Albania -- A new evangelistic center was opened in Durres on Nov. 26, the second center in Albania funded by the December 2000 worldwide thirteenth Sabbath School offering for Albania.
Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
Who says an online marriage can't last? The first couple to be officially married in cyberspace on CompuServe, Rachel Twing and Randy Terwillegar, are celebrating 10 years this month.
Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
What may be considered a standard for church pastors in much of the world -- a solid, basic theological education at a recognized seminary, and regular extension courses to stay current and refresh skills -- can be a daunting challenge in parts of the world where there has been civil war for 20 years. In Southern Sudan there are virtually no roads, and no gasoline (petrol) stations. There is no postal system; there are no telephones and no banks. In fact, there is no infrastructure in the country.
Arua, Uganda
Adventists employed in various Philippine government branches are committing themselves to oppose graft and corruption. They have banded together to form an organization called Seventh-day Adventists in Public Service (SDAPS). The primary goal is to promote honesty and transparency in government, according to Jonathan Catolico, communication director for the Southern Asia-Pacific Adventist Church region.
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines
A three-minute Sound of Silence starting on Dec. 25 at 7:58 p.m. (EST) will commemorate the anniversary of the Southeast Asia tsunami. One year after the disaster the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) International is encouraging the world take the time to honor the survivors and remember those who lost their lives.
Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
On the South Pacific Island of Papua New Guinea, this Dec. 1 -- also known as World AIDS Day -- has special significance. The HIV/AIDS epidemic that has killed 3 million people worldwide this year alone runs rampant on the island, making it number one in the region for the disease.
Lae, Papua New Guinea
When a Seventh-day Adventist evangelist conducts an outreach event, it's not unusual to have people respond by giving their lives to Christ. But a recent Adventist-led outreach that covered the entire nation of Chile brought in much more: blood donations totaling 2,150 liters (1,140 pints), and pledges to donate organs from nearly 6,000 people.
Santiago, Chile