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Lighting Lives, Blessing Nations
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MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA (USA) 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
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Press Release
LLBN Breaks Ground for New Addition
Work begins on ‘Great Commission Broadcast Complex’
to better support quality Christian television production.
The Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) broke ground February 21st for its new ‘Great Commission Broadcast Complex’ designed to facilitate production of more high-quality Christian television programming for the network’s eight multilingual channels and multiple digital platforms.
Construction consists of a 9,224 square-foot service center to be added to LLBN’s current 3,200 square-foot television studio for a combined structure of 12,424 square-feet. A one-hour groundbreaking ceremony, attended by more than 250 prominent guests, was carried live on all LLBN networks.
The new addition will contain LLBN’s production, programming, transmission and Internet/computer support to provide enriched functionality to its website, social media pages, phone apps and television broadcasts. The expanded space will also house the latest digital technologies to record more and higher technical quality Christian programs that spread God’s Word among nations.
Say Ganim Hanna, President and CEO of LLBN, “This construction represents more than a basic brick and mortar investment. Rather, it’s a spiritual venture to help us more powerfully proclaim God’s mercy and hope to a dejected world eagerly searching for both.”
Artist’s rendering of the completed ‘LLBN Great Commission Broadcast Complex’ with current studio building (foreground) and new 9,224 sq. ft. service center addition behind.
MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA (USA) 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
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Press Release
LLBN Web Articles Explore Faith
Weekly ‘Articles of Faith’ weblog conveys short, meaningful
narratives of people; life; history from a Biblical perspective.
Loma Linda, Calif. – January 24, 2020: ‘Articles of Faith’ is a weekly series of short, insightful, Bible-inspired commentaries exploring life’s many dimensions and shortcomings, often framed by history and ending in a convincing moral purpose or meaning. New articles appear every Monday on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network’s (LLBN) website (llbn.tv)
Recent posts include the true story of 1950’s scientists observing the earliest atom bomb tests wearing sunscreen to protect their faces. Says the article, “Sunscreen? To protect against an atomic blast? Kind of a metaphor, perhaps, for all human attempts to atone for their own sins. To try and earn their salvation. To try and make themselves right with God.”
Another article asks why the secular world readily accepts unseen realities like radio/TV signals; words, images and movies sent invisibly through mobile phones; sub-atomic particles from outer space, yet questions the existence and necessity of faith which the Bible describes as “the evidence of things not seen”?
These thoughtful articles are carefully researched and warmly written by Clifford Goldstein, current editor of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Adult Bible Study Guide. He is based at church world headquarters in Silver Spring, Md. Goldstein has also held various staff positions within the church since 1984 including editor of ‘Liberty Magazine’ and associate director of its North American Division’s public affairs and religious liberty departments.
His articles appear exclusively on LLBN’s website. A link is prominently displayed on the site’s lobby page for easy access. All past articles are archived along with the current installment. Each is purposefully kept at five-to-eight paragraphs for a ‘quick read’ yet written to provide deep insight into God and His Word. Scriptural references are cited in each article.
LLBN is a non-profit 501(c)3 religious ministry with all donations tax deductible. It is primarily supported by viewer contributions and receives no additional funding from any church, religious conference, grant or institution.
LLBN is in its 22nd year of producing and airing programs that change lives, explain Biblical scripture and share Jesus Christ’s grace, mercy and love worldwide through the highly influential medium of television. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations…” Matthew 24:14.
# # #
About Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) – From studios in Loma Linda, Calif., USA, LLBN reaches every inhabited continent on eight separate channels via Glorystar Christian Satellite, Internet, IPTV services like Roku, and in selected locales, cable and traditional terrestrial TV. It is also live-streamed on mobile apps. Programs range from inspirational church services and musical concerts to thought-provoking Bible studies and documentaries. These are aired 24-hours daily in multiple languages on LLBN’s Christian channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese; Latino and South Asia. An additional channel, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS-TV) broadcasts health and wellness programming daily around the clock. Visit www.llbn.tv to livestream or download the LLBN app from the Google Play Store (Android devices) or App Store (Apple devices.)
MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA (USA) 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
LLBN Program Helps People Witness for Christ
‘Creating Disciples’ provides basic Bible knowledge to
prepare people for witnessing to others.
Loma Linda, Calif. – November 22, 2019: Ever wanted to informally talk about Jesus Christ to family, friends, neighbors or co-workers but felt ungrounded in basic Bible principles and beliefs? ‘Creating Disciples’, a new program from the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN), will help overcome these concerns.
Hosted by youthful and energetic Pastor Austin Roberts, the program encourages viewers to share the gospel more regularly by providing the fundamental tools to do so. It delves into key Bible principles and parables in each 30-minute program explaining different scriptural text in an easy-to-understand way.
Program content covers key Old and New Testament teachings from Genesis to Revelation. Each explores a passage at its face value, then dives deeper into its background and context so viewers see how it applied in Biblical times, and how it relates today.
‘Creating Disciples’ airs each Sunday at 2:30 PM Pacific with repeats on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the same week. Program times are available using the Interactive Program Guide on LLBN’s website: llbn.tv/schedule . Enter the program name and click ‘search’; the week’s broadcasts will be displayed. The program is also archived for playback anytime through the website’s Video-On-Demand service: llbn.tv/creating-disciples.
Pastor Roberts completed undergraduate religious studies at Walla Walla University, College Place, Wash., and received a Master of Divinity degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Calif. He currently serves as Interim Ministry Coordinator at Loma Linda University Church, Calif.
LLBN is a non-profit 501(c)3 religious ministry with all donations tax deductible. It is primarily supported by viewer contributions and receives no additional funding from any church, religious conference, grant or institution.
LLBN is in its 22nd year of producing and airing programs that change lives, explain Biblical scripture and share Jesus Christ’s grace, mercy and love worldwide through the highly influential medium of television. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations…” Matthew 24:14.
# # #
About Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) – From studios in Loma Linda, Calif., USA, LLBN reaches every inhabited continent on eight separate channels via Glorystar Christian Satellite, Internet, IPTV services like Roku, and in selected locales, cable and traditional terrestrial TV. It is also live-streamed on mobile apps. Programs range from inspirational church services and musical concerts to thought-provoking Bible studies and documentaries. These are aired 24-hours daily in multiple languages on LLBN’s Christian channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese; Latino and South Asia. An additional channel, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS-TV) broadcasts health and wellness programming daily around the clock. Visit www.llbn.tv to livestream or download the LLBN app from the Google Play Store (Android devices) or App Store (Apple devices.)
(A FULL-SIZED DIGITAL PHOTO TO ACCOMPANY THIS TEXT IS AVAILABLE BY WRITING Bob@llbn.tv)
MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA (USA) 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
Rediscover Series Explores Perceptions of Faith
Age and life experience influences Biblical
understanding. A new LLBN program examines how.
Loma Linda, Calif. – November 8, 2019: Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) is now airing a half-hour TV series on The Bible and how perceptions of its teachings progress over time as people age and acquire more life experience.
Called ‘Rediscover’, it’s hosted by Pastor Miguel Mendez who takes a fresh look at scripture and parable from often diverse viewpoints. “The way you understand the Bible in your 20’s is not necessarily how you’d comprehend it in your 40’s, 60’s or 80s,” he says. “Life-changing events and the wisdom of age can intensify the depth of meaning one finds in Bible study. My program attempts to illustrate these changes,” adds Pastor Miguel, “while introducing new discoveries concealed in plain sight in familiar scripture.”
‘Rediscover’ airs each Sunday at 9:30 AM Pacific with repeats on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday of the same week. Program times are available using the Interactive Program Guide on LLBN’s website: llbn.tv/schedule. Enter the program name and click ‘search’; the week’s broadcasts will be displayed. The program is also archived for playback anytime through the website’s Video-On-Demand service: llbn.tv/rediscover
Pastor Mendez is Study Pastor at Loma Linda University Church, California, and regularly conducts Sabbath Service there.
LLBN is a non-profit 501(c)3 religious ministry with all donations tax deductible. It is primarily supported by viewer contributions and receives no additional funding from any church, religious conference, grant or institution.
LLBN is in its 22nd year of producing and airing programs that change lives, explain Biblical scripture and share Jesus Christ’s grace, mercy and love worldwide through the highly influential medium of television. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations…” Matthew 24:14.
# # #
About Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) – From studios in Loma Linda, Calif., USA, LLBN reaches every inhabited continent on eight separate channels via Glorystar Christian Satellite, Internet, IPTV services like Roku, and in selected locales, cable and traditional terrestrial TV. It is also live-streamed on mobile apps. Programs range from inspirational church services and musical concerts to thought-provoking Bible studies and documentaries. These are aired 24-hours daily in multiple languages on LLBN’s Christian channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese; Latino and South Asia. An additional channel, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS-TV) broadcasts health and wellness programming daily around the clock. Visit www.llbn.tv to livestream or download the LLBN app from the Google Play Store (Android devices) or App Store (Apple devices.)
MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA (USA) 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
LLBN-TV Series Examines Prophecy
‘The Divine Apocalypse of Prophecy’, a four-night exploration of
Biblical insight, explains its importance and purpose.
Loma Linda, Calif. – October 25, 2019: What is the purpose of prophecy in the Bible? Is it simply to predict the future, or does prophecy serve other objectives as well? How is prophecy interpreted and how do you spot false or misleading prophets?
These and other questions are addressed in a special, four consecutive night series on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) ‘His Word’ channel starting Monday, November 4, 2019, at 6:00 PM PST. The series, broadcast live, is presented by John Anderson, Senior Pastor, Mentone (Calif.) Seventh-day Adventist Church, and hosted by LLBN’s Ganim Hanna and Marlon Paley.
Pastor Anderson first explains that the word ‘apocalypse’ in prophetic context means the revelation of truth in contrast to the more familiar reference to end-time disasters and calamities. He also discusses why Biblical prophecy is needed, how it is given and by whom, and exactly how prophecy is defined. He explores ways to determine if a person claiming to be a prophet is indeed speaking Bible truth or deception.
The full prophecy series will be repeated throughout November and archived at LLBN’s website (llbn.tv) for convenient playback on Video-On-Demand (VOD).
LLBN is a non-profit ministry with all donations tax deductible under 501(c)3 regulations. It is primarily supported by viewer contributions and receives no additional funding from any church, religious conference, grant or institution.
LLBN is in its 22nd year of producing and airing programs that change lives, explain Biblical scripture and share Jesus Christ’s grace, mercy and love worldwide through the highly influential medium of television. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations…” Matthew 24:14.
# # #
About Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) – From studios in Loma Linda, Calif., USA, LLBN reaches every inhabited continent on eight separate channels via Glorystar Christian Satellite, Internet, IPTV services like Roku, and in selected locales, cable and traditional terrestrial TV. It is also live-streamed on mobile apps. Programs range from inspirational church services and musical concerts to thought-provoking Bible studies and documentaries. These are aired 24-hours daily in multiple languages on LLBN’s Christian channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese; Latino and South Asia. An additional channel, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS-TV) broadcasts health and wellness programming daily around the clock. Visit www.llbn.tv to livestream or download the LLBN app from the Google Play Store (Android devices) or App Store (Apple devices.)
MEDIA CONTACT
Bob Blancato
Public Affairs Officer
Loma Linda Broadcasting Network
Office: 909-651-5542
Mobile: 909-488-6672
E-Mail: Bob@llbn.tv
Post: P.O. Box 550, Loma Linda, CA 92354
Web: www.llbn.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
LLBN Special Explores Faith vs. Works
‘Grace or Grit’, a four-night live presentation on Loma Linda
Broadcasting Network, delves into this pondering issue.
Loma Linda, Calif. – October 17, 2019 – “It is by grace that you are saved through your faith. It is the gift of God – not works – so that no one can boast,” said Pastor Dan Smith referencing Ephesians 2: 8, 9 during LLBN’s recent ‘Grace or Grit’ television special exploring common misconceptions among many Christians about faith versus works.
Through scripture, parable and discussion with co-host Ganim Hanna, LLBN President and CEO, Pr. Smith dispelled the notion of many believers that God accepts or rejects people based on some level or goodness or religious performance. “The Bible discards this idea”, Pr. Smith said, referencing the importance of grace given by God. Those who accept it do so by faith, and that is the source of salvation; not works that may lead to boasting or spiritual insincerity in the form of, “see how godly I am through all the good that I do.”
Many aspects of faith and works were explored in-depth during the four night presentation, each segment running one hour. A distinct topic was featured in each program titled (in order): “The Man who went Naked to the Wedding”; “The Peterbilt truck and the VW”; “The Grasshopper Complex”, and; “The Battle is The Lords’.”
The full series is archived at LLBN’s website (llbn.tv) for convenient playback on Video-On-Demand (VOD). Scroll to the middle of the landing page and click on the ‘Grace or Grit’ image under VOD Specials. Each program provides special insight to those struggling with the complexities of faith and works, and which one takes precedent.
Dan Smith is the former senior pastor of Garden Grove SDA Church in Calif. He has also served as a specialist for creative evangelism at the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Riverside. He is active in mission projects, evangelism and philanthropy around the world.
LLBN is a non-profit, viewer-funded ministry with all donations tax deductible under 501(c)3 regulations. Many LLBN studio operations and daily working support are handled by volunteers of all ages and walks of life who provide their time and services for free.
LLBN is in its 22nd year of sharing Jesus Christ’s grace, mercy and love as depicted in the Bible through the influential medium of television. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations…” Matthew 24:14.
# # #
About Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) – From studios in Loma Linda, Calif., USA, LLBN reaches every inhabited continent via satellite, Internet, IPTV, cable, mobile devices and traditional terrestrial TV. Programs range from inspirational church services and musical concerts to thought-provoking Bible studies and documentaries. These are aired 24-hours daily in multiple languages on seven LLBN channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese; Latino and South Asia. An eighth channel, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS) broadcasts health and wellness programming daily around the clock. LLBN is a non-profit, 501(c)3 viewer supported TV ministry. Visit www.llbn.tv or download the LLBN app from the Google Play Store (Android devices) or App Store (Apple devices.)
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Announcements
LLBN’S APP BRINGS ITS BROADCASTS TO THE WORLD
Ganim Hanna, president and CEO of the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network, talks about what LLBN is doing to keep up with the latest technology and make sure its eight channels of Christian programming reach people everywhere.
By Alita Byrd, Interviews Editor, SPECTRUM Magazine
LLBN, or the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network, introduced new live video streaming in the previous few months, and released apps for Apple and Android, so that people can watch LLBN on their phones anywhere in the world. What response have you gotten so far? How many people have downloaded the apps? Has your viewership grown?
Hanna: “We’ve been delighted with the response. As of this date, we’ve had 2,300 app downloads total in both Apple and Android formats since their introduction in October, 2018. More downloads occur each day.
Furthermore, we’ve since learned from numerous viewers that they share their mobile viewing experience with others, whether it’s witnessing, study or playing music among family or friends. Mobile phones are everywhere and apps are highly reliable, easy to work and therefore a daily part of people’s lives. So this particular distribution venue is extremely beneficial in spreading the message of Jesus Christ to the world.
We also live-stream all eight LLBN networks on YouTube as well as our website. According to YouTube, there are more than 1.9 billion logged-in users each month, many of whom view the service every day. Since launching live-streaming on YouTube a year ago, LLBN has totaled 8.9 million views. Currently, more than 70 percent of all YouTube watchtime now comes from mobile devices, so it’s vital that LLBN be available via mobile apps.”
LLBN has eight channels in multiple languages, with shows that range from Bible studies to cooking to parenting and relationship advice to sermons and talk shows. Where does all of this content come from?
Hanna: “Some are produced in-house; some by affiliate churches such as live Sabbath service, vespers or similar broadcasts; others from private producers making Christian-themed shows for LLBN, and; some are paid programs.”
Besides the new streaming options, how do people access LLBN programing?
Hanna: “In North and Central America, the Caribbean and part of South America, there’s direct-to-home satellite, various cable TV companies and low power TV stations. LLBN is also available on Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) operator Roku and on our website, llbn.tv. Finally, we’re further expanding viewing options by making LLBN available on AmazonFire and Apple TV platforms by mid-year. ”
Who is watching the different LLBN channels? What do your viewer statistics tell you? How far is your reach?
Hanna: “LLBN via home satellite, Internet protocol TV such as Roku and traditional terrestrial broadcasting is available in 147 nations. Households reached are around 50 million. Since most households have more than one TV viewer, we believe viewership numbers are significantly higher than the estimated number of households.
This does not include the rapidly emerging venues of social media like YouTube and mobile phone apps which can equate to millions of additional viewers. These new platforms just launched within the past year, so we’re still getting insight on who’s watching LLBN there.
Then, there’s the knowledge gained by reading the cards and letters we’ve regularly received over the years. Many are from Seventh-day Adventists worldwide and a surprising, recurring theme is from those who, for a variety of reasons, cannot attend regular Sabbath church service. LLBN is their only link to church and fellowship with like-minded believers. I’m humbled that these viewers depend so heavily on us.
With our mixture of languages and cultures, and receipt of many letters from non-Adventists who regularly watch our channels around the world, we know LLBN also reaches a large number of multiple Christian and non-Christian denominations.”
What are LLBN's most popular shows?
Hanna: “As I mentioned, weekly Sabbath programming from sundown to sundown is our most heavily viewed time due to the many live Sabbath church services and related programs aired, such as ‘Christian Connections’, ‘Excavating the Bible’, ‘Flame of Truth’ among others.”
Music programs are heavily watched outside of Sabbath, in particular, the daily ‘Heritage Singers’ classics and ‘Gathering Place’. Other shows drawing good audiences during the week are Bible study series ‘Searching for Answers’ and ‘God’s Prophetic Surprises’, or GPS.”
How many people work for LLBN?
Hanna: “Two full-time; five part-time; one contract professional; six per diems, and; more than 100 volunteers.”
You started LLBN in 1998. What prompted you to start a TV network?
Hanna: “There were many factors. First, go back to the 1960s when President Kennedy’s FCC Chairman Newton Minnow gave a speech where he called American television a ‘vast wasteland’. He said, ‘When television is good, nothing is better. When television is bad, nothing is worse.’
I’ve always remembered that statement. It later led me to start LLBN to address, in part, the dearth of respectable family programming and wasteland of negative images that ruled commercial broadcasting and cable TV well into the 1990s.
So along with some like-minded Seventh-day Adventists, such as engineers Gary Schiller and Marlon Paley, we together launched a non-commercial, viewer-supported Christian TV service emphasizing Bible-based values, faith, and healthy living in stark contrast to the video wilderness that had only worsened since Minnow’s day.
Actual planning for LLBN began in 1994, and short test broadcasts began a few years later, but we credit 1998 as the year we actually began regular daily service on a local cable TV channel. Also, being in Loma Linda was a major benefit due to its huge concentration of committed, mission-driven SDAs. They helped get LLBN off the ground.
Finally, I must credit some key heroes who supported our mission early-on as an independent ministry: Dr. Bill Loveless, former Sr. Pastor of Loma Linda University Church and Thomas Zirkle, MD, former Senior V.P. at Loma Linda University Health. There are other notables such as businesswoman Carolyn Thompson; Norm Meyer; Cheri Kirk; Dr. Roland Zimmerman; Dr. Arthur Morgan; Dr. Bernard Taylor, and; Dr. Lyn Mallory. Also important were engineers Gary Schiller and Marlon Paley who were with me from the beginning and still with LLBN today. They remain highly committed and faithful to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
What experience in television and broadcasting did you have? What is your background?
Hanna: “I studied business administration and electronic engineering which providentially prepared me for my journey with LLBN. I also learned through hands-on experience (a great teacher), many wonderful mentors, and credit our Lord for wisely guiding me during many difficult decisions.”
What plans do you have for LLBN in the future?
Hanna: “There are three primary objectives: first, maintain and expand the worldwide distribution infrastructure; second, stay at the forefront of new technology to keep LLBN up-to-date, and third; produce more Christian programs relevant to the challenges facing our faith, hope and survival in an ever-failing world.”
Do you get significant support from Loma Linda University and the health system to run the network? Where does the funding come from?
Hanna: “We’ve always been blessed with common friendship, collaborative and spiritual goals with Loma Linda University.
LLBN, as an independent, 501 (c)3 non-profit organization, receives nearly all its funding from faithful viewers worldwide who support our ministry to meet our mission and goals.”
Who are LLBN's main competitors? How is LLBN different than other Adventist Church broadcasting?
Hanna: “We differentiate ourselves as being primarily educational in nature with an emphasis on increasing Biblical knowledge. This is supported by many programs that emphasize Bible teachings. Knowing Jesus Christ is central to our mission of introducing as many people to His Kingdom as possible.
As for other Adventist, Christian and private ministry channels, we are brothers and sisters in Christ. We all work for the same Master.”
What have you learned in 21 years of running LLBN?
Hanna: “Patience, for God does things in His own time. Also, how to recognize a divine appointment, seize and act on it.
So many times, we’ve been faced with choosing between two diverse paths; diametrically opposed directions. But by asking, “What best serves spreading the Lord’s message”, we have always made the right decision.
This includes taking major leaps of faith when funds or related components impacting a decision were not fully secured. Our belief that God will help us at the right moment to complete the task has never been misled.
We are planning construction of a new studio and office complex to consolidate multiple LLBN operations now scattered in rented buildings across the area. Commercial leasing has become financially unviable here. We genuinely need this updated facility to improve both our productivity and finances, and we’re confident God will guide us in making the best decisions as we soon break ground. He made Himself known through nearly two decades of LLBN’s continued success.
Photo: Architect’s drawing of planned expansion of LLBN studios and office facilities.
Finally, LLBN is truly blessed by not being dependent on ratings, selling commercials or retaining highly-paid performers to survive. We are all Christ’s servants, and by putting Him first, we avoid the pitfalls of vanity, self-importance and over-indulgence so prevalent in the secular media and elsewhere.
Romans 12:2 says it best; ‘Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.’”
Photos courtesy of LLBN.
Reprinted from Spectrum Magazine – February 26, 2019.
Amazing Facts speaker Pr. Doug Batchelor (center right) visits LLBN team at its 2019 National Religious Broadcasters convention exhibit, Anaheim, Calif.
April 01, 2019
LLBN Corporate Officer Recognized by Its Latino Network for Long-Term Support
March 11, 2019
The LLBN Latino Network has formally recognized LLBN’s Lili O’Ara, VP of Marketing, Community Relations and Accounting, for seven-years of faithful support including managing all donations and maintaining its social media presence for the Spanish-speaking TV ministry. O’Ara works in LLBN’s corporate office, part of the team that oversees operations of all LLBN channels.
A certificate of appreciation was recently presented by LLBN Latino Chairman Dr. Humberto Rasi following a global broadcast of LLBN’s ‘Christian Connections’ live discussion program.
LLBN Latino is among eight separate TV networks governed, maintained and funded under the corporate authority of Loma Linda Broadcasting Network.
Lili O’Ara holds certificate of appreciation on the set of Christian Connections surrounded by (left) Juliet Rasi; Dr. Humberto Rasi, Chairman, LLBN Latino Network; Ganim Hanna, CEO/President LLBN-TV, and; Francis Wilder, LLBN Latino Program Director.
Cover the Earth
November 13, 2018
In 21 years, Loma Linda Broadcasting Network has grown from a small cable TV channel aired solely in Southern California to a Christian media powerhouse beaming eight diverse channels in six languages to all continents on multiple platforms.
In 1961, President Kennedy’s new Federal Communications Commission chairman, Newton Minnow, gave his now famous speech where he described American television as a “vast wasteland.”
He further said, “When television is good, nothing is better. When television is bad, nothing is worse.” That sentiment could have come from Ganim Hanna, who some 35 years later, founded the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) to address, in part, the dearth of respectable family programming and wasteland of negative images that ruled commercial broadcasting and cable TV well into the 1990s.
What Viewers Want
Believing many people still wanted decent television, Hanna envisioned an independent, non-commercial, viewer-supported Christian TV service emphasizing Bible-based values, faith, and healthy living in stark contrast to the video wilderness he felt had only worsened since Minnow’s day. From that vision came LLBN.
As head of the Loma Linda University (LLU) Cable TV and Media Services Department, Hanna applied his years of TV experience and engineering skills in his off-hours to developing his vision. He was joined in those early days by other LLU media professionals Hannah Luttrell, Evie Roach, Marlon Paley, Sterling Peter, Robert Raae Nelson and Gary Schiller in pursuing this goal outside their full-time university jobs. The network began in 1997 broadcasting five hours daily on Chanel 17, the dedicated community access slot on Loma Linda’s original cable television provider, Adelphia. Live and taped programming was sent by cable to a potential audience of roughly 10,000 households in Loma Linda and parts of San Bernardino County. Everything originated from a small classroom converted to TV studio at the Loma Linda University Church on the university’s main campus.
Changing Technology Transforms LLBN
LLBN’s next step was huge as TV technology later advanced to a digital platform allowing the station to cost-effectively access the then-new Glorystar Christian Satellite System. This propelled LLBN from a small Southern California cable broadcaster to a two continent provider of quality television throughout North and South America.
Other uplinks followed that make LLBN accessible in Asia, Middle East and Africa, China and Far East nations. As technology improved, equipment and distribution costs actually fell in many cases dramatically increasing LLBN’s access and exposure.
The introduction around 2003 of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) saw LLBN join that worldwide distribution platform on web TV services like Roku. LLBN then eventually grew to eight separate channels, all streamed on the Internet through its website, www.LLBN.tv. The network soon established presence on social media venues like YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook where text and photography can be viewed and videos played.
LLBN today operates 24 hours daily in multiple languages on seven channels: His Word; His Light (English); Arabic; Korean; Chinese: Latino and South Asian. An eighth separate health and wellness venue, Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS), broadcasts exercise, nutrition and general health education programs daily around the clock. A few paid leadership positions are supported by nearly two dozen volunteers from all walks of life who give their time and talent to keep the channels on-air.
Though closely linked to Seventh Day Adventist beliefs and practices, LLBN strives to be nondenominational encompassing Christian ideals and messages that many will support. Discord between denominations is avoided in favor of an overall tone of inclusion. Faith-oriented issues are at the core of its programming, as well as diet and nutrition, religious history, spiritual music and even scientific study rooted in Biblical wisdom.
Apps -- More Exposure; Greater Growth
The next expansion for the global network is mobile device streaming using app-based platforms for Android and Apple.
Viewing LLBN on portable devices like smartphones, tablets or Ipads using the latest 4G LTE cellular technology allows reliable, uninterrupted streaming almost anywhere there’s Wi-Fi or hotspot access. “As long as there’s 4G service, you can watch our channels without the disruptions that sometimes plague web browsers that are highly dependent on bandwidth space at any given moment,” Hanna said.
“Our new apps played on personal mobile devices will expose more people worldwide to the message of Jesus Christ by fostering greater accessibility to our ministry outside of traditional TV services with their limited channel space,” he adds.
Users will also be able to access multiple video-on-demand (VOD) selections from LLBN’s large archive of Christian study, sermon, church service or musical offerings.
Concludes Hanna, “Distribution venues unheard of a mere five years ago are today increasing our message exponentially to cover every part of the Earth. I can’t help but wonder if this is another meaning of Daniel 12:4, ‘Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.’
Increasing knowledge of Christ’s Word through rapidly advancing technology has, in 20 short years, driven a comparatively obscure Christian cable TV channel to reach a world of kindreds, tongues and peoples, much to the delight of LLBN leadership, volunteers and an ever-growing cadre of discerning viewers.
LLBN Coverage Of 2018 Global Healthcare Conference At Loma Linda University
November 13, 2018
Précis of 13 Preselected Interviews: Thursday & Friday, October 18 & 19, 2018.
Thursday, 10/18.
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Chief Samson Popoola, RN, Director of Nursing Services, Adventist Health System in Nigeria, Osun, Nigeria. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Discusses many affirmative stories on SDA Hospital’s role in the region. Has a good, positive feel about SDA leadership from the General Conference. Important to bring together healthcare leaders from around the world to learn from each other.
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Dr. Zeno L. Charles-Marcel, Associate Director Health Ministries, General Conference HQ, Silver Spring, Maryland (USA). Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
Views himself as a “facilitator” between GC and more than 175 Adventist hospitals, clinics and related medical facilities worldwide. Is representative between Conference and Adventist medical missionaries and responsible for guidance and interaction between all. Supports rural communities in Central and South America. Efforts include dissemination and promotion of health/wellness message among rural peoples to avoid alcohol and tobacco use. Describes latest effort in Amazon toward this goal.
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Mr. Kirby Kasinja, CEO, Blantyre Adventist Hospital, Malawi. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Describes how people from throughout the country come to his hospital, located in a large urban setting. Many patients are indigent and require free treatment, which they receive. Yet despite what appears to be a negative, most are willing to listen to messages about Jesus. Many then embrace Christ as they see the hospital’s free service and caring attitude as evidence of sincerity about serving God. Many regain hope and faith in God. Currently building a Maternal Child Center through donations. Hospital also seeks to build an ICU and new surgery. Needed is hospital furniture (e.g., patient beds; chairs; exam tables.) Relies on SDA Church to send medical missionaries to help.
Friday, 10/19.
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Lionel Nkaya, CFO, Hospital Adventiste d’ Haiti. Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
Just opened Neonatology Unit supporting six beds. Country is among poorest in world and still recovering from major 7.0 magnitude earthquake in 2010. Damage and abandoned structures from earthquake still visible in major cities such as Port-au-Prince. Critical need to expand health services and hospital infrastructure to serve many indigent people. Loma Linda University continually supports hospital with fundraising; financial consultation; funding.
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Dale Mole’, CEO, Scheer Memorial Adventist Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal; w/wife Susen (sic). Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
He saw miracles happen in his first week at the hospital. The facility is in what he called a “low resource environment.” At first, there was resistance to a Christian hospital’s work by Nepalese people. Christianity not widely practiced there. Gradually, that broke down. Mentioned many cultural differences between Nepalese and Westerners; e.g., Nepalese don’t like to stay inside; prefer outdoors. Susen helped establish a nearby garden and regularly tended to it; outdoor work showed her willingness to adapt to local culture. A positive image. Soon, many Nepalese people came to volunteer in the garden.
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Jaime Adan Sosa, Administrator, La Loma Luz Adventist Hospital, Santa Elena, Belize, Central America. Interview by Derrell Mundall.
Says hospital is a major blessing to his country. It has grown from the facility started in 1972 by Derrell’s medical missionary father to a greatly expanded structure today. Offers pediatric surgery, orthopedics, a pharmacy, pathology lab and radiology. Newest growth area is contract by Belize government to provide dialysis in the nation. Hospital soon plans to open a clinic in nation’s capital, Belmopan. Needs western-trained medical missionaries to serve at both locations.
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Beverly Brathwaite Chan, CEO, Davis Memorial Hospital, Guyana. Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
Hospital was opened 60 years ago by an Adventist medical missionary, Pastor Davis, and is named after him. It is best known for obstetrics, with most Guyanese nationwide born there. Dr. Richard Hart, President, Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health International, spoke there 17 years ago providing inspiration for all medical/clinical staff. Helped establish a Foundation Healthcare Program. Hospital today needs specialist physicians including cardiologists, surgeons and ob-gyns.
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Dr. Tiffany Priester, Cardiologist and Medical Missionary, Blantyre Adventist Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi. Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
Mother interviews daughter. Dr. Priester discussed how she takes two months off twice a year to practice cardiology in Blantyre Hospital. She’s the only cardiologist in Malawi. Nation has 16 million people and little modern healthcare. Many people live in rural setting. Two hospitals in the country; SDA Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital owned by the Malawi government. Dr. Priester started the nation’s first ICU. Wants to create a truck-mounted mobile cardio clinic to move about the country. Includes stress testing; portable nuclear medicine imaging; small pathology lab; EKG, other support technology. Other project: a maternal fetal center.
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Pr. Agapito Catane, Adventist Hospital, Cebu, Philippines. President, Central Philippines Union. Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
There are three Adventist hospitals in this nation. Impact of recent Typhoon Yolanda on hospitals discussed; much damage. Needed are new patient beds; other furniture for staff and patient rooms. Staff voluntarily took key medical equipment (where possible) and supplies miles inland where storm was less powerful. All hospitals do evangelistic work leading to many baptisms into SDA faith.
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Dr. Wilson Thomas, Pediatrics & LLUH Grad., Medical Missionary, Malamulo Adventist Hospital, Malawi. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Focuses on poverty’s impact on children; effects of living with no electricity, proper shoes or other protective clothing, no mosquito nets, no basic medicines, living among dirt roads, floors and constant dust. Especially referenced health detriments of open cooking fires; smoke inhalation leading to respiratory diseases over time. Praises General Conference’s help with African medical missionaries. GC assistance valuable in transitioning to local environment. “You give up a nice doctor lifestyle back home but the medical missionary experience and the impact you contribute is rewarding and remarkable.”
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Chimwemwe (Joy) Kumwenda, (center) CHIP Program Advocate, Adventist Health Center, Lilongwe, Malawi. (Capital city.) Joined by Kathy Saunders, Dietitian, Adventist Health Center, Malawi. CHIP medical nutrition therapist. Interview by Dr. Ruth Stanhiser.
Discussed CHIP (Complete Health Improvement Program) offered at hospital…an Adventist-based exercise and nutritional guidance effort. Initial doubt about program’s real effectiveness. Saw firsthand how medical nutrition therapy addresses range of conditions. Now believes in it.
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Dr. Greg Saunders, Surgeon, Adventist Health Center, Lilongwe, Malawi. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Dr. Saunders grew up among medical missionaries; father was a surgeon who performed missionary work in Pakistan and Ethiopia. He followed in father’s footsteps. Started in Nigeria; now Malawi. Discussed health situation there. Lilongwe is capital of country; urban lifestyle and good economy. Now seeing “diseases of affluence” – obesity among young; diabetes; hypertension. Wife (Kathy) is dietitian at same hospital – he refers many such cases to her.
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Dr. Ryan Hayton, Surgeon, Malamulo Adventist Hospital, Malawi. LLUH graduate. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Discussed challenges and rewards of medical mission work performing surgery at hospital. Critical need for latest surgical equipment and OR theater support.
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Dr. Richard Hart, President, Loma Linda University Health; Adventist Health International. Interview by Dr. Tiffany Priester.
Discussed what the 2018 Global Healthcare Conference contributes to SDA education, medical practice and healthcare institutions. Also, how the conference provides a venue for collaboration between LLUH and more than 715 sister Adventist institutions worldwide. Provides knowledge and inspiration for delegates to take back to their respective nations and institutions.
New ‘Nutrition Bits’ For SLS-TV
November 13, 2018
Production recently completed on new series of ‘Nutrition Bits’ for broadcast between Smart LifeStyle Television programs.
New ‘Nutrition Bits’ sixty-second promotional spots have been recorded for use on Smart LifeStyle Television (SLS-TV), a 24/7 health and wellness channel that’s part of Loma Linda Broadcasting Network’s (LLBN) eight network lineup.
‘Nutrition Bits’ are researched, written and presented by graduate students at Loma Linda University’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, part of the School of Allied Health Professions. The effort is overseen by JeJe Noval, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in the department. The segments examine current dietary and nutrition news and trends worldwide with commentary and advice.
Smart LifeStyle Television empowers viewers to embrace a smarter, healthier lifestyle through programming that is educational, entertaining and encouraging. Other LLBN networks include two Christian-themed English channels (‘His Word’ and ‘His Light’) as well as separate Arabic, Korean, Latino, Chinese and South Asian offerings focused on Christ. Programs on all LLBN channels are broadcast daily around the clock.
Free phone apps for Android and Apple devices let viewers live-stream SLS-TV and all LLBN networks nearly anywhere in the world served by 4G or higher cellular technology.
New Friday night Vespers
May 25, 2018
LLBN is airing a live Vespers program the last Friday of each month. It will be a mostly musical Vespers with a short devotional. The Vespers begins at 6pm and goes till 7pm. We hope you enjoy the beautiful music that will be coming to LLBN. Visit http://www.llbn.tv/llbn-vespers for more details.
New Programs Now Airing!
April 02, 2018
We have new programs that have been airing since April 2nd! If you haven't already downloaded the new schedule, head over to our Schedules page! Lineage Journey is airing on LLBN His Word, Hot Health on Smart LifeStyle TV, and some LLBN classics-Hey Everybody, Pursued, and Signs of the Times have been airing on LLBN His Light. Visit our New Programs page at http://www.llbn.tv/new-programs for details and airing times on our new programs.
Israel and Jordan Trip
July 02, 2018
Join archeologists Dr. Larry Geraty from Excavating the Bible and Dr. Larry Herr on a two week tour of the Holy Lands! The trip begins July 2 and goes through July 15. On this trip you will be visiting many famous Biblical sites like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Nazareth and much more! Visit www.berrienhistory.org or call 269-471-1202 for more details.