It has been a very rewarding and busy summer thus far in the Carolinas. The blessings of campmeeting at Lake Junaluska seem to grow greater each year. We had a wonderful attendance and the speakers and presenters did a tremendous job as thousands were blessed.

It has also been a blessing to have hundreds of young people and children benefiting from our summer camp programs at Nosoca Pines Ranch. We appreciate the leadership of the staff as they daily lead young hearts closer to Jesus.

Speaking of young people it is hard to imagine that in a few short weeks school will once again be starting. I hope every family strongly considers placing their student in Adventist education. The difference that takes place in the life of a student is truly a difference that lasts throughout eternity. Please don't hesitate to contact your pastor or local church school for more information or if they are high school age contact Mt. Pisgah Academy.

Mt. Pisgah Academy has had a service team working all summer in different churches throughout the Carolinas. They are always a very positive influence on the members of those different congregations. We appreciate the work they do. If you would like to have a service team in your church next summer contact Beth Grissom at Mt. Pisgah Academy for more details.

This past Sabbath it was my privilege to be in the Greenville, NC Spanish congregation. They are a vibrant and growing church. As my wife and I were visiting during the fellowship dinner one of the folks commented they are already looking forward to Eastern Carolina campmeeting coming once again to Greenville, NC. Again, hard to imagine that time will soon be here. We are delighted that Elder Dick O'fill will be the guest speaker.

I would like to make you aware of a special men's ministry program that is being aired on the Hope Channel that is being hosted by Elder Minner Labrador, Charlotte Sharon pastor and Carolina Men's Ministry director. It is entitled, "Old Man-New Man". It is a very well done program that will be a blessing to your family. You can also find it online at oldmannewman.com

We are happy to report that Carolina continues with its strong growth. During the past five years God has blessed us with our greatest growth of any five year period. That growth is both net growth and the number of new baptisms and Professions of Faith. We are simply humbled that God would continue to pour out His blessings upon our Conference.

I know many of you either have or will be taking vacations this summer. Enjoy your time with family and friends. Please know that our Conference family is daily in my prayers for God's blessing and protection. May God bless.

Your friend,
Jim