STORY
A Church Called Evergreen
September 13, 2023
Bob Dunn
We are a small church located in Boardman, Ohio. Some say this church is unique because God calls its members Evergreen.
Years ago, a senior member, Betty, was called by God to come and attend Evergreen even though she didn’t really want to do that. But Betty obeyed God’s voice and became a regular attendee. Every Sabbath, she walked through the church praying for the Holy Spirit to fill the church with His presence and to lead people who needed Jesus to come and visit us.
I don’t think there is a member here who wasn’t called to be here at Evergreen. Everyone here has a testimony of their calling by the Holy Spirit and how they are here at Evergreen because they obeyed the Spirit’s calling. On May 27, 2023, Pastor Oswaldo Magana came to our church to speak and baptized six people.
All the people have diverse experiences in their spiritual journeys; one is Grace, who waited almost two years before getting baptized at Evergreen. She had not stepped inside a church since 2008 until she came to Evergreen in 2021. Grace heard the Holy Spirit calling her to return to God through this church. A couple of the oldest members remembered her from way back as she had attended the old church in Youngstown before this current building opened as the New Evergreen SDA Church. Despite all the setbacks, Grace became increasingly active. She is involved in many activities in the church. She holds a couple of Bible studies a week.
Two young people, Amartisan and Arailena, got baptized later. They are from 2 different God-fearing families and two different cultures.
Amartisan said, "Jesus gives us a treasure in Heaven,” while Arailena shared, “This church is a Christian Church, and it’s a good idea to be here.” “Evergreen has more missionaries and other activities than most small churches.” These children give credit to God because of the church's friendship and support, which significantly impacted their decision for baptism.
Jayme began studying the Bible with her Grandmother in Washington State. After moving here, she felt God calling her through the Holy Spirit. She thought it was best to be a baptized member of a church that felt like home, a church that is active, caring, and loving.
She listened to the calling of the Holy Spirit and is active with the children’s class. The last person got baptized on the 27th of May. As a youngster, his aunt introduced him to God, and he later received an invitation to Evergreen as an adult. Jesse reported, ”I’ve been to many churches. I feel that this Adventist church makes the most sense to me; it teaches what the Bible says! The Holy Spirit is alive, growing, and leads others back to God here at Evergreen.”
On June 10th, there were an additional five new members who joined the church through baptism. Among the five, Peggy and Michael moved to Ohio from Mesa, Arizona. They were attending a church here in Ohio that unfortunately closed. They found Evergreen via our website. Even though they travel 40 minutes in each direction, they regularly come to church and have become some of the most loved in our church family. We are so blessed that they were brought here by the Holy Spirit.
Two brothers, Luis and Leo, also got baptized. During their pre-baptism Bible studies, these young men almost recited the 28 fundamental Beliefs. Luis said, "I like to hear the good sermons and the missionary activities that this church is doing." Leo described Evergreen as “A church that shares your love with God.”
The Eleventh newest member is Sameer. He is a dedicated student of the Bible. He noted, "This is the only place I wish to be baptized.” He appreciates that we teach from the Bible.
The Holy Spirit led all 11 of these most recent Members to study the Bible diligently and guided their decisions. Step inside, and you will feel the Holy Spirit working in every member. Our motto is: "One People, One Vision, and One Mission." The diversity within our membership reminds us of what heaven will be like.
Pastor Oswaldo Magaña baptizing Jayme Bacon
Pastor Oswaldo Magaña baptizing Amartisan Dessalegn Negeri
share this
Related Stories
With more than two decades of experience in youth camp ministry and operations, Russell Hallman has joined the Ohio Conference as the new Camp Ranger for Camp Mohaven. Having lived and worked at multiple Adventist camps across the country, Hallman brings a lifelong passion for outdoor ministry, hands-on service, and creating spaces where people can encounter God and enjoy nature. The Camp Mohaven Ranger position became vacant following the transition of Elias Esquivel, who faithfully served in the role before accepting a call to the Northern California Conference, where he now serves as Camp Director at Leoni Meadows. Hallman steps into the position eager to continue building on the strong foundation laid by Esquivel and previous leaders. Hallman’s journey into camp life began early. As a child, he moved frequently, living at three Adventist camps—Camp Berkshire, Camp Kulaqua, and Laurel Lake Camp—before starting high school. He attended Blue Mountain Academy in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, for four years, and later continued his education at Southern Adventist University and Southwestern Adventist University, earning a Bachelor of Business Science in Business Management. He also holds an Associate of Science in Automotive Technology from Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio. Hallman brings over 22 summers of experience at five different camps, including 10 years in full-time camp management and maintenance. He has also worked as an automotive technician for 12 years and served as co-director of facilities for a five-center daycare company. Reflecting on his lifelong connection to camp ministry, Hallman shared, “Camp is in my blood, and when the opportunity opened to return to camp ministry, I jumped on it.” He added that seeing the potential of Camp Mohaven and the strong support from the conference office made the opportunity especially appealing. In his role as Camp Ranger, Hallman oversees the day-to-day operations of Camp Mohaven, ensuring that all facilities are well-maintained, safe, and continually improving. His responsibilities include managing maintenance projects, coordinating with vendors, welcoming guest groups, and contributing to the creation of a positive experience that encourages visitors to return and share their experiences with others. During his first year, Hallman plans to focus on learning the full scope of the camp’s operations, evaluating current systems and facility needs, and implementing processes to enhance both efficiency and guest satisfaction. He also hopes to begin making visible upgrades that will further improve the camp experience for all who visit. Hallman believes that camp is a sacred place where people encounter God in a unique and personal way. His vision is to help Camp Mohaven become a destination where individuals, families, and groups can reconnect with God through the beauty of nature and the power of community. “Nature is God’s first book,” he shared, “and Mohaven has so much beauty that the possibilities are endless.” Working closely with the Mohaven Operating Committee (MOCOM) and the Ohio Conference, Hallman is excited to help shape a vision that will make Camp Mohaven a premier destination for guests from across Ohio and beyond—a place where people not only enjoy recreation but also experience spiritual renewal. Future plans include upgrading cabins, expanding lodging options, improving infrastructure and kitchen facilities, adding new RV sites, and introducing more activities for guests of all ages. For Hallman, faith is the foundation of both his life and ministry. He draws daily strength from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” He and his wife, Kristen, have been married for more than 26 years and share a deep passion for camp ministry. He met her while working at Camp Winnekeag in Massachusetts. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors, connecting with friends and family, and engaging in activities such as sports, crafting, and woodworking projects. The Hallmans look forward to seeing how God will use their time at Camp Mohaven to advance His kingdom and inspire others to grow in faith. As they begin this new chapter, Russell and Kristen Hallman are eager to connect with members across the Ohio Conference. “We want everyone to know that Camp Mohaven is your camp and that you are always welcome,” Hallman shared. He encourages churches, families, and ministries to participate in what Mohaven offers—whether by attending events, utilizing the facilities for ministry, or supporting its mission through prayer and donations. “We’re looking forward to meeting and getting to know as many of you as possible,” he added.
As part of the Pentecost 2025 evangelism initiative, the Iglesia Adventista Ebenezer in Cleveland recently hosted a Multicultural Festival – Día de la Diversidad Cultural, an event celebrating the rich cultural diversity within its congregation and community. The festival brought together members and guests for an afternoon of fellowship, worship, and international cuisine. Participants represented various cultural backgrounds, sharing traditional foods and music that reflected the global nature of the Seventh-day Adventist faith community. In addition to the cultural presentations, the program featured a time of worship and reflection on the biblical message of unity in Christ, a powerful reminder that all believers are part of one family in Him. The celebration underscored the church’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, outreach, and community engagement as part of the Pentecost 2025 initiative.
On October 5, the Mansfield Seventh-day Adventist Church held its traditional Women’s High Tea Party—an annual event that has become a cherished occasion for fellowship, inspiration, and awareness. Organized by the Women’s Ministries Department, this year’s event brought together nearly 80 guests for an afternoon of elegance, reflection, and encouragement. The High Tea serves not only as a joyful social gathering but also as an important opportunity to raise awareness about cancer prevention and promote holistic health within the community. Through this initiative, the church continues to strengthen its connection with women from both the congregation and the surrounding community. The elegant setting made guests feel instantly at ease. Upon arrival, each woman received a hat—a meaningful symbol tied to the event’s theme: “Behind every hat is a woman with a story to tell.” Throughout the program, participants were invited to reflect on their personal journeys, their faith, and God’s grace at work in their lives. In her devotional, Dee Simmering emphasized the importance of relying on God in every circumstance: “We all have a story—some good, and others painful and full of trials. We must lean on our Lord God Almighty to help us navigate life. We can’t do it alone; we all need God. His love, grace, and forgiveness are what carry us through. These are free gifts given to us when we ask for His help.” The beautifully prepared food and tea service added to the atmosphere of joy and celebration. Guests praised the event for its thoughtful organization, inspiring message, and warm hospitality, with many expressing their appreciation and sharing plans to attend again next year.
STAY UP TO DATE
GET CONFERENCE'S LATEST
Receive monthly updates from the conference, and get a heads up on upcoming events.
Contact Us
