<![CDATA[Wrangell Seventh-day Adventist Church - Active in Ministry]]>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:19:11 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Delivering Hope Through the Snow]]>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:19:43 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/delivering-hope-through-the-snow
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When heavy snow blanketed Wrangell this past weekend, it didn't stop a dedicated crew of volunteers from the community and Wrangell SDA Church from doing what they do every month — showing up for their neighbors.

A solid small group of volunteers gathered at the church for the monthly Senior Box Program distribution, loading up cars and heading out across town despite the challenging road conditions. With snow falling and roads slick, they made their way to each stop, dropping off boxes packed with dry goods like pasta and cereal, canned goods, and cheese — the kind of practical help that makes a real difference in a senior's month.

But the boxes weren't the only thing delivered. At each door, volunteers paused to chat, check in, and simply be present with the seniors they served. That's always been the heartbeat of this program — not just supplemental groceries, but genuine human connection.
There's something fitting about pushing through a snowstorm to serve others. It's discipleship in action — the kind that happens not in a pew, but on a slippery front porch on a cold winter morning. The seniors who received boxes were deeply grateful, and honestly, so were the volunteers.
The Senior Box Program has served Wrangell's low-income seniors for a number of years and is always looking to reach more people who could use the help. If you know someone who is 60 or older and on a limited income, please encourage them to reach out at 907-874-3039.  
Community Service Info
]]><![CDATA[Can You Hear Him? Does He Hear You?]]>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 04:18:48 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/can-you-hear-him-does-he-hear-youTo kick off the new year, Pastor Charlie Meigs delivered two powerful messages that felt like a perfect reset for our hearts and our relationship with God.

On January 3rd, Pastor Charlie opened with "How to Hear the Lord" — a reminder that God is always speaking, but are we tuned in? He shared that God speaks to us in more ways than we might realize: through prayer, through the people around us, through Scripture, and even through the beauty of nature. The key? Our hearts have to be open and ready to receive. As Pastor Charlie put it, "Our hearts have to be knit with His." That line alone is worth sitting with for a while.

Then on January 10th, he flipped the conversation with "How God Hears Us." The encouraging truth at the heart of this message — God wants to hear from us. Not because He has to, but because He genuinely desires that connection with each of us. What a comforting thought to carry into 2026.
Together, these two sermons paint a beautiful picture of a two-way relationship with God — one where He speaks and we listen, and where we speak and He listens.
If you missed either message, you can catch both on our website at wrangellsda.org/sermons-2026 or search Wrangell SDA Church on YouTube. They're worth your time!
]]><![CDATA[Wrangell Adventurer Club: Growing in Faith and Service]]>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 04:31:26 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/wrangell-adventurer-club-growing-in-faith-and-service
When the Wrangell Seventh-day Adventist Church launched its Adventurer Club in September 2024, the team took a step of faith with just one brave child at their first meeting. Now in their second year, that faith continues to be sustained as the club grows in purpose and commitment.

This month, the Adventurers have been busy working on their Baking, Courtesy, and Acts of Kindness badges. These aren't just activities to check off a list—they're opportunities to learn what it means to serve others with love. The club put their learning into action by organizing a litter cleanup near the church, demonstrating kindness to their neighbors in a practical, visible way.

One of the most exciting developments has been watching the children learn the books of the Bible song from this year's Alive in Jesus Primary songs (Alive in Jesus is the new curriculum for Sabbath Schools). There's something special about hearing young voices memorize Scripture through song, planting seeds that will grow throughout their lives.

Currently, two faithful children attend the club regularly, and their enthusiasm is contagious. One family has become actively involved, and the kids genuinely look forward to their time together each meeting. While the numbers may seem small, the church celebrates this foundation. After all, Jesus reminded us that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is there with them.

The team has faced the challenge of finding a meeting time that doesn't conflict with other community activities in Wrangell. The Adventurer Club team continues to navigate these practical considerations while keeping their focus on what matters most: creating a space where children can grow closer to Christ.

"We're just excited to have this club and this opportunity for outreach," the team shares. The heart behind the Adventurer Club remains the same as when it launched—a desire to invest in children's ministry and create consistent opportunities for the youngest members of the community to experience God's love.

As the Wrangell Adventurer Club continues its second year of ministry, they ask for prayer in two specific areas: that the club will grow as more families discover this ministry, and that the leaders themselves will draw closer to Christ even as they help draw others to Him.

Adventurer club is open to K-3rd grade. See www.wrangellsda.org/Adventurer-club for upcoming meetings.

]]><![CDATA[Annual Christmas Cookie Party Spreads Joy Through Community]]>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 04:49:33 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/annual-christmas-cookie-party-spreads-joy-through-community
Winter weather did its best to keep people home this past Sunday, December 14th, but four dedicated women weren't about to let a snowy day stop one of our most cherished annual traditions: the Christmas Cookie Party.

Despite the heavy snowfall blanketing the area, these determined bakers gathered to continue a tradition that has become a highlight of our holiday season. Armed with flour, sugar, and plenty of festive spirit, they transformed the kitchen into production lines of holiday cheer.

By the end of the day, their efforts yielded an impressive 19 dozen cookies—that's 228 individual treats ready to spread sweetness throughout our community. Using a treasured secret recipe passed down through the years, they crafted batch after batch of sugar cookies cut into festive holiday shapes. Trees, stars, snowmen, and bells emerged from the oven, ready to be transformed into edible works of art with colorful icing and sparkling sprinkles.

These cookies aren't just for show. Each batch was made with a purpose: to brighten the days of people across our community. The cookies were distributed to local workplaces, thanking those who serve us throughout the year, and to individuals who might need a reminder that they're thought of during the holiday season.

Was it tiring? Absolutely. Hours of mixing, rolling, baking, and decorating left everyone ready for a well-deserved rest. But was it worth every minute? Without question. The joy these simple gestures bring to recipients makes all the effort worthwhile.

This annual tradition reminds us that the holiday spirit isn't dampened by inconvenient weather or long hours in the kitchen. It thrives when people come together with a shared purpose: spreading kindness, one cookie at a time. We're already looking forward to next year's gathering and the smiles these treats will bring to faces throughout our community.
]]><![CDATA[Wrangell SDA Church Welcomes Pastor Charlie Meigs Home]]>Sun, 23 Nov 2025 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/wrangell-sda-church-welcomes-pastor-charlie-meigs-home
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Garrett Holmes, AK Conference of SDA, welcomes the Meigs family back to Wrangell. (photo courtesy of Nicki Benedict)
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Pastor Charlie Meigs preaches his first sermon since returning to Wrangell. (photo courtesy of Nicki Benedict)
The Wrangell Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated a joyful homecoming on Saturday, November 22, as Pastor Charlie Meigs and his wife were officially installed to serve both the Wrangell and Petersburg SDA churches. The installation marked a meaningful return for the Meigs family, who previously served the Wrangell congregation from 2014 to 2019.

A large and jovial gathering of church members filled the sanctuary to welcome back their beloved pastoral family. Garrett Holmes, Vice President of Finance for the Alaska Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, traveled to Wrangell to officiate the installation ceremony. Holmes warmly welcomed the Meigs on behalf of the conference, noting that there wasn't much to share about them that the congregation didn't already know. He shared that he had enjoyed visiting with the couple before the service and offered a heartfelt prayer of blessing over their ministry.

During the service, Pastor Meigs expressed his gratitude with simple but meaningful words: "It is good to be home." After leaving Wrangell in 2019, the Meigs served in the Tri-Cities area of Washington before moving to Orofino, Idaho, where Charlie worked as a bible worker. Their return to Alaska demonstrates their enduring love for the community they consider home, and his heartfelt sentiment reflected the deep connection the family has maintained with Wrangell throughout their years away.

The installation service continued with Communion, followed by piano selections performed by Garrett Holmes. The congregation then gathered for a potluck meal, extending the celebration of this special reunion.
]]><![CDATA[Fellowship, Cards, and a Time of Singing]]>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 01:54:40 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/fellowship-cards-and-a-time-of-singingOctober was our church's month to serve through the Wrangell Ministerial Association's long-term care ministry. The Wrangell Ministerial Association's rotating ministry ensures our long-term care community receives consistent care and attention throughout the year, with each church taking a month to serve. 
After worship each sabbath, we gathered for a wonderful potluck featuring warm, comforting soups and an array of delicious baked goods. The fellowship around the table was a gift, the simple joy of sharing a meal together. This time of connection strengthened us for the ministry ahead.

Our Adventurers group spent time creating heartfelt cards, at one of meetings we had this month. These weren't just cards—they were tangible expressions of love and reminders that our long-term care residents are valued members of our community. Church members had the privilege of distributing these cards during one of our visits.

The highlight of our outreach was singing together for the residents. Music has a remarkable way of lifting spirits and bridging generations, and we witnessed smiles and even sing-alongs as we shared familiar hymns and songs.
Yes, it was a long day. But as we reflected afterward, we kept returning to one simple question: How do we want others to treat us? This golden rule isn't just words—it's a call to action. When we invest time in visiting those who may feel isolated, we're living out the love we hope to receive, and our church family showed up with willing hearts to do just that.
]]><![CDATA[Women's Retreat: Finding Community in Ruth's Story]]>Tue, 30 Sep 2025 03:09:19 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/womens-retreat-finding-community-in-ruths-story
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The group gathered Sabbath Evening at the Ketchikan Parsonage
Fifteen women from Wrangell, Prince of Wales, and Ketchikan gathered September 26-27 for a women's retreat in Ketchikan, despite stormy weather that delayed travelers and forced some cancellations.
Hosted by the Ketchikan SDA Church, the retreat explored the book of Ruth through sessions on hospitality, friendship, and community. Friday evening's hospitality session reminded us that everyone can be hospitable, regardless of circumstances. This message continued through Sabbath's sermon about Naomi and Ruth, followed by a grain bowl potluck—a new experience for many!

Sabbath afternoon brought a peaceful walk at Ward Lake, offering time for connection and reflection. The evening session on community emphasized how God provides for His people through relationships. The weekend concluded with a movie night that powerfully demonstrated the impact of prayer.
Key takeaways resonated throughout: everyone can be hospitable, God provides for His people, and community matters deeply. Despite weather challenges, the retreat strengthened bonds among Southeast Alaska's SDA women and reinforced lessons from Ruth about loyalty, faith, and finding strength in community.
Thanks to the Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Craig SDA churches for coordinating this effort. We're already looking forward to our third annual retreat next year!
]]><![CDATA[Building to Last: Southeast Alaska Campmeeting 2025]]>Sun, 31 Aug 2025 23:07:22 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/building-to-last-southeast-alaska-campmeeting-2025
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A look at the congregation from the front
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Pastor Rodney Mills sharing about Nehemiah on Sabbath
The 2025 Southeast Alaska Campmeeting brought together believers August 1-2 around the powerful theme "Build to Last: Kingdom Building Through the Eyes of Nehemiah."
Pastor Craig Hamilton, who serves the Ketchikan and Craig SDA churches, opened Friday night with an engaging presentation on the background of Nehemiah and Ezra, emphasizing the foundational role of prayer in rebuilding. Pastor Rodney Mills, President of the Alaska Conference, continued the theme during church time and Sabbath evening, focusing specifically on Nehemiah's prayers and their relevance for today's church.

Attendees were invited to participate in a 40 days of prayer initiative beginning September 7 for the Alaska Conference, continuing the campmeeting's emphasis on prayer as the foundation for lasting ministry.

 The weekend featured a children's ministries spotlight showcasing the new "Alive in Jesus" curriculum, designed to engage young hearts in meaningful discipleship. A special offering was taken for Camp Lorraine, with volunteers present to share the camp's ongoing ministry needs.

Each program included dedicated time for local churches to share their current ministries and outreach efforts. Petersburg, Wrangell, and Ketchikan churches each highlighted their unique community initiatives, fostering connection and collaboration across Southeast Alaska's SDA community.

The campmeeting reinforced that lasting kingdom work, like Nehemiah's wall, requires both divine guidance and community commitment.
SouthEast Campmeeting Sermons Here
]]><![CDATA[Camp Lorraine Mission Team Baptism]]>Sun, 20 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/camp-lorraine-mission-team-baptismPictureArcher McGill (L) and Pastor Craig Hamilton (R) after baptism.
On Sabbath, July 12, the Wrangell Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated as Archer McGill was baptized by Pastor Craig Hamilton, who serves both the Ketchikan and Craig congregations.

For several years, Archer has been a dedicated member of the mission group from White Salmon/Hood River, volunteering at Camp Lorraine, a children's camp in Southeast Alaska. Through his faithful service, Archer has become a treasured part of our community.

Archer shared that he had been contemplating baptism for quite some time, but this year felt different. "It was easy with no hesitation," he explained. For him, Camp Lorraine is his "happy spot," where his faith has grown through meaningful work and fellowship.
Originally hoping to be baptized at the camp itself, poor weather necessitated moving the ceremony to the church. Despite the venue change, the significance remained unchanged.
Those who know Archer recognize his exceptional work ethic and dedication to Camp Lorraine's mission. His commitment is legendary, particularly remembered for the year he strapped himself in to work safely on the camp's steep roofs – a testament to his skill and willingness to tackle challenging projects.

Following the baptism service, the congregation gathered for a potluck meal in celebration. While Archer was baptized here in Wrangell, he will be joining his local Seventh-day Adventist church back home, carrying with him the spiritual growth fostered through his years of service at Camp Lorraine.

Archer's story reminds us that God works through service and community, drawing hearts to Him through faithful witness.

]]><![CDATA[Wonder Junction VBS: Community VBS]]>Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:48:11 GMThttps://www.wrangellsda.org/active-in-ministry/wonder-junction-vbs-community-vbsPictureBrooke Reynolds on her nightly walk to Wonder Junction
Something wonderful happened in Wrangell from July 7-11, and it wasn't just the kids having a blast at Vacation Bible School. Our community witnessed what can happen when churches set aside denominational differences and work together for a common purpose.

This year's VBS theme, "Wonder Junction," brought together 25+ children each night from kindergarten through fifth grade. What makes Wrangell's VBS truly special isn't just the enthusiastic kids or the creative activities—it's the unique partnership between our local churches that has developed over the years. Harbor Light Assembly of God spearheads this yearly effort. In addition, welcoming mission groups from Arkansas and Alabama, who brought fresh energy and perspectives.

Our own Brooke Reynolds jumped in to help with the fifth graders and shared her experience: "Despite the weather, it was a wonderful week (pun intended). One girl even gave her heart to Jesus and I missed it because it was the one night I was not there." Stories like this remind us why community ministry matters.

This collaborative approach proves that being a smaller church doesn't mean sitting on the sidelines. When we join forces with other believers, we can accomplish far more than we ever could alone. The children of Wrangell benefited from resources, volunteers, and enthusiasm.

As we look toward future community events, let's remember the lesson of Wonder Junction: God calls us to participate, not isolate. Our size doesn't determine our impact—our willingness to work together does.

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