Wisconsin

Connie Beech had never heard of Seventh-day Adventists until she met Josh Dobson and his family. She felt it was fortunate to be introduced to Adventism by such positive influences. Connie says, "I have always known the Dobsons to be friendly, caring, trustworthy, and patient people."

The first time Connie attended a function at the Raymond Seventh-day Adventist Church was when Josh invited her to a weekend seminar presented by Walter Wright, Lake Union Conference president and family ministries director. Her experiences visiting the church, then and later, were positive. Connie remarked, "The one thing I have always noticed is how comfortable I felt whenever I attended a church function. The Raymond Seventh-day Adventist Church always made me and my family feel welcome. Within a few minutes of meeting the members, I felt like I had known them for years."

When Emanuel Baek presented the Amazing Facts Prophecy Seminar, it had a profound affect on Connie. She said, "Although I had already changed my lifestyle in many ways, the seminar gave me new insight and understanding of the Bible and the Church's stance on other issues. I met so many wonderful people because of the seminar, and my relationships with fellow church members grew richer and stronger after spending many hours together."

Connie remembers her baptism fondly. She recalls, "Baptism was an amazing experience for me. Everything about it—from the difference I felt before and after baptism to the outpouring of love and support I felt from the church body."

Connie is thankful for her new church family. She said, "I can honestly say I see the world through different eyes now. I know that being a Seventh-day Adventist is right for me, and I cannot thank God enough for the many wonderful and loving people surrounding me who helped me find the truth."

Diane Thurber, Lake Union Herald managing editor, as shared by Connie Beech, Raymond Seventh-day Adventist Church member