An interview with President Fordham: Insights from the Central States Conference

INTERVIEW WITH A PRESIDENT
PASTOR FURMAN FORDHAM
Pastor Furman Fordham, president of the
South Central Conference of Seventh-day
Adventist
Issues Magazine had the
opportunity to interview
Pastor Furman Fordham,
president of the South
Central Conference of
Seventh-day Adventist.
I Magazine – How did attendance at Pine Forge Academy and Oakwood
College (University)lead to your Spiritual and leadership growth?
Fordham - “I delivered my first sermon at Pine Forge Academy, which
led to my realization of a calling to ministry.
I further attribute my leadership development to the Oakwood’s
University Student Week of Prayer programs. These experiences
deepened my spiritual connection and awareness of my need for divine
guidance.”
I Magazine - As president of the South Central Conference, what are two
of your goals?
Fordham – “Making mission the church’s top priority and being baptized
with the Holy Spirit to execute that mission effectively.”
I Magazine - The SDA African American membership is being replaced
by the Hispanic and West Indian membership. Why is this taking place?
Fordham – “I attribute the shift in SDA African American membership to
a decline in mission focus. The West Indians and Hispanics, who
prioritize mission, are replacing the African American SDA population.
Further, I am suggesting that in some areas, tradition, power, and money
now take precedence over mission.”
I Magazine - In many of the SDA K-12 schools, the non-SDA student
population is equal to or exceeds the SDA population. What are a few
reasons for this phenomenon?
Fordham – “One of the reasons for the higher non-SDA student
populations can be attributed to underappreciation of Adventist
education and a demand for excellence among younger professionals.”
I Magazine - Should the local church receive a greater share of the
reversion monies coming from the local conference and the North
American Division?
Fordham – “I strongly supported the idea of local churches receiving a
greater share of revision monies from the conference and North
American division. The argument is simple, the local churches generate
income, and other levels were created to support them. My vision is for
mission-focused resource allocation at the local level.

I Magazine - In assigning pastors to churches will pastors be assigned
without church input?
Fordham – “My approach to pastoral placement will emphasize
collaborative communication with local churches, involving church boards
in the selection process and ensuring their input is considered.”
At the close of the interview Pastor Fordham shared a thought that has
been ringing in my ears since that day. He mentioned that of all the God
given positions he has had over the years, he is absolutely, positively
convinced that has directed him to this presidency. With such a divine
directive, the South Central Conference will be blessed.

In this candid conversation, President Fordham underscores the importance of spiritual growth and outreach. He outlines how the Central States Conference is actively working to uplift and support its members and wider communities. Find out how you can be a part of their mission.