Advice From One of Columbia Union Conference's Oldest Members

Story by Mary Golden

On October 20, 1917, Joseph and Lilley Bell of Enola, Pa., welcomed a beautiful little girl, Roberta, into the world. 

In 1943, Roberta “Bertie” Karmel was the first member to be baptized into the newly formed Harrisburg-First church (now part of the Pennsylvania Conference) on 19th Street in Harrisburg. 

When Karmel was born, Ellen White, one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, had only been deceased for two years. Woodrow Wilson was president of the United States, and she would live through 19 more presidential elections. Throughout her life, Karmel would survive two pandemics, two World Wars, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, the Great Depression, 9/11, and much more. 

Working as a secretary for most of her life, Karmel retired at the age of 75. 

She loved her job, but her ministry working in the church was her passion. It only seemed fitting that she became the church secretary. Over a period of 30 years, Karmel served as secretary to more than 10 pastors. In addition to serving as church secretary, she served as Sabbath School secretary and helped with the school's orange program, among other services.

Karmel's ministry extended to more than church offices. She is well known for being the first contact to welcome a new visitor or new member and keeping in touch with missing or sick members. Her memory was better than any hard drive on a computer. She was loved by both adults and children, say members.

On October 20, 2024, Bertie celebrated her 107th birthday, now living with her grandson, Gary. She has now been a faithful member in the church for 81 years, and her ministry continues as she is still reaching out to members to check on them. 

When asked what her secret of longevity is, she replied she never smoked, never drank and never met a piece of dark chocolate she didn’t like.