Prayer Promise

The Colors Within: Reflections on Fall, Growth, and Grace

John Glass

Several years ago, I moved here from central Oregon. That’s a pretty scenic area, but it misses some of the things that Michigan has, like Lake Michigan—or maybe Andrews University. One thing in particular is colored leaves in the fall. That’s the time of year we’re in right now. What do you think? Has summer gone? Think so. Right now, we’re rapidly approaching the zenith of color, which makes me thankful once again that I moved here from central Oregon: Michigan has all kinds of gorgeous tree colors. Within a couple of blocks from me is a maple with the most stunning color display: green, yellow, and gold. As I was walking Rascal this morning, the sun was lighting it up magnificently. I decided to take a break from writing and take a picture or two while the leaves are still there, so I did: I didn’t want to wait for another year to do it. 

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Pastor Ben's Farewell Potluck

October 25  •  Pioneer Commons

We invite you to join us in celebrating Pastor Ben Martin's more than 10 years of ministry at Pioneer with a farewell potluck on Sabbath, October 25, following the second service. Pastor Ben's last day with us will be October 31, after which he will become the Pastor at the Stevensville SDA Church.

The church will provide cake, desserts, and drinks. We kindly ask for your assistance with the meal based on your last name's initial:

- A–G: Garlic bread
- H–Q: Lasagna, spaghetti, or pasta
- R–Z: Salad

Please bring enough food to serve about 12 people and drop it off upon your arrival at the church. Let’s come together to thank Pastor Ben and his family and show our appreciation for his years of dedicated service.

Help Pack 7,000 Bags for
Christmas Behind Bars

On Sunday, October 26, beginning at 9:00 AM in Johnson Gym, 400 people will have the opportunity to help pack 7,000 bags for our Christmas Behind Bars event. Join us for this fast-paced, fun, and family-friendly event sponsored by Pioneer Memorial Church and Andrews University. Use the link below to sign up. Your presence and invitation to others helps to support our strategic initiatives for Pioneer. 

Adopt-a-Student

Looking for a simple way to bless a student this semester? Consider adopting one! Whether you’re a family or an individual, you can offer warmth, encouragement, and a sense of home to a student who’s far from theirs. Together, we can help students thrive! Reach out to learn how you can adopt a student and make a real difference. Contact Mari Bowerman at belong@pmchurch.org.

GYC: Follow Me
A Discipleship Weekend Experience

October 24-25  •  Beginning Friday evening 7:30 PM
Pioneer Memorial Church

Jesus is calling. Not someday—today. In the middle of your stress, your questions, your real-life mess.

Discipleship isn’t a checklist. It’s a radical choice to follow Christ no matter what.
It will cost you everything—but give you more than you can imagine.

So what does it actually look like to follow Jesus as a student today? Come find out.

He’s calling. How will you respond?

Wind Symphony Fall Concert:
Echoes of Majesty

October 25  •  7:30 PM
Howard Performing Arts Center

Echoes of Majesty is a concert highlighting music that embodies majestic places. Enjoy works by Jack Stamp, Salfelder, Buckley, Boysen, and Wagner, followed by Rossano Galante’s Cathedral Mountain in the second half. Join us for this memorable evening. Tickets are available at the link below.

Communion Service

On Sabbath, November 1, please plan to attend the celebration of the Communion service together during both the 9:00 and 11:45 AM services.

Pioneer Jam Session

1st Sabbath of each Month

Pioneer Jam Session will occur on the 1st Sabbath of each month at Pioneer. If you enjoy singing or playing instruments, feel free to come and join in our worship. The jam sessions take place on Sabbaths from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

Something In Common

Sabbath Mornings  •  10:30–11:30 AM
Pioneer Boardroom

Join us for the "Starting Point" video series with Andy Stanley, where we discuss how every journey begins. Change can be uncomfortable, but it’s a crucial start. This 8-part series runs until December 6, 2025. Everyone is welcome in the Pioneer Boardroom from 10:30 to 11:30 AM on Sabbath mornings.

Graduate and Young
Professionals Sabbath School

We have launched a new Graduate/Young Professional Sabbath School class. Please consider joining us in the Student Center's Leadership Lab. Questions: contact Jacob Gibbs at gibbs@andrews.edu.

RMES Food Fair & Cultural Showcase

November 9  •  12:00–3:00 PM

The Ruth Murdoch Elementary School Food Fair and Cultural Showcase will take place on Sunday, November 9, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Proceeds benefit the RMES Worthy Student Fund. Explore a variety of delicious dishes from around the world, enjoy live performances, and immerse yourself in diverse cultures while supporting a great cause! Please bring cash or a check. Bring your family and friends for an afternoon of food, fun, and cultural celebration!

Upcoming Events

OCTOBER
25 – Pastor Ben's Farewell Potluck
24-25 – GYC—Follow Me: A Discipleship Weekend
25 – Caring Hearts & Women's Ministries Seminar
26 – Christmas Behind Bars

NOVEMBER
1 – Pioneer Communion Service
2 – Howard Center Presents: Reggie & Ladye Love Smith
9 – RMES Food Fair & Cultural Showcase
16 – Sunday Music Series: Junqi Sophie Tang

Offering for October 25, 2025

Michigan Advance Partners

For many years the story of the widow who gave her two mites has always intrigued me. In terms of monetary value, she did not give much. But why was her deed even mentioned in the Bible? The lesson I learned was profound—God values the giver's heart more than the amount given. The widow, in her poverty, gave all she had out of love. Her offering consisted of two mites, the equivalent of ¼ of a penny in today’s money, but it was everything she had.

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