Adventists converged on the Oakland Mormon Temple Oct. 13 and 14 for the annual African-American Convocation, themed “Tried in the Fire, Coming Out Gold.” It brought together people from more than 11 congregations from around the Pacific Union.

During the two-day event, there was soul-stirring music, energetic preaching and reunion-like fellowship. Friday night’s speaker, Pastor Paul Siope, combined his New Zealand accent with a hip-hop style, which kept the audience alert and attentive.

Dr. Roscoe Howard, North American Division secretary, delivered the divine worship message. His presentation was full of energy and excitement. Howard focused on the “Paradox of Praise in the Midst of Pain,” and described the four major types of pain. He reminded his listeners that the Christian is to count the painful experience as joy and light affliction.

Musical guests included Cynthia Palmer, Wayne Bucknor from Oakwood College, and Fredrick Jermaine Neyland of northern California. The mass choir, conducted by Theodora Brazelton, boasted that God is faithful.

In the afternoon Jeffrey (J.L.) Thompson, who has served as assistant pastor to the Oakland Market Street church, was ordained. Thompson’s mother paid tribute singing, “Go Ye Therefore,” and Dr. Ivan Warden, executive director of the E.G. White Estate, delivered the homily. “It was gratifying to see one of my students from juniors and earli-teens become an ordained minister,” said Ira Barksdale, associate treasurer of the Southern California Conference.

There was also plenty happening for the youth. Fredrick Whitlow, II, known as “Minister Fred,” tackled issues like illegal drugs, gangs and criminal activities while bringing a message of God’s love and redemption.