Jennifer Shaw, camp secretary, reported this year’s lineup of speakers, exclaiming, “We are excited to welcome Jesse Seibel from the Hawaiian Islands to open Camp Meeting Sunday evening through Wednesday morning. His fresh insights will set a powerful tone for the week. From July 29 to August 2, Dr. Jon Paulien will lead a thoughtful evening worship series, guiding us deeper into Scripture and hope. Gary Venden, returns with his warm, relational preaching, and Ángel Rodríguez Medina will bring a dynamic ministry to our Spanish-speaking community.”
Redwood Camp Meeting is a place for all generations. Daily worship and inspiring seminars offer something for everyone. Children especially thrive with themed programs featuring music, crafts, stories, prayer, and a redwood-laden playground.
Other features during the week also include:
Eddie Heinrich will return with Summer on the Run activities, including a waterslide, climbing wall, and fun games that keep kids active and joyful—a Christ-centered adventure they’ll remember all year.
PUC Professor Jeff Joiner will teach free nursing CEU-credit classes on medical mission work, emergency care, and overdose response.
Mark your calendar and register at nccsda.com/RAC, to reserve a shaded campsite. Find your place beneath the redwoods—where faith grows deep and hearts grow close.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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The event was organized by Vallejo Central’s Joyful Life Health Ministries team, with nearly 30 volunteers showing up early to prepare. They set up tables and chairs, cleaned the showers between guests, organized clothing, served food, and spent time talking and praying with those who came.
Most guests were transported to and from the church using the church’s shuttle. It was a simple act of service, but one that made a real impact. By coming together with open hands and willing hearts, volunteers welcomed guests who felt seen, cared for, and valued—no matter how briefly.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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Centered on spiritual renewal, the presentations focused on what it means to be a man of faith, emphasizing obedience, humility, and a contrite heart.
Through breakout sessions and prayer, the men spent time sharing personal testimonies of faith and building friendships. One attendee stated, “When you make a friend here, it’s para toda la vida—for life.”
“It was a true blessing to see these men inspired to grow in their walk with God and to be ready to serve the Lord and their families with renewed strength,” said Paul Guevara, Hispanic Ministries Coordinator.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 12, 2025
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By Bill Cash
During a work bee to clear winter debris and assist with the new train barn, nine train drivers and their spouses presented Heinrich with a commemorative plaque naming the train’s station the “Craig Heinrich Train Station.” He was also gifted the traditional engineer coveralls and hat.
Over the years, Heinrich has been instrumental in supporting and preserving the train, notably overseeing the restoration of its 2.5-mile track in 2018 and rescuing the train during the Caldor Fire in 2021 by moving it to safety in the meadow. Though the fire destroyed the train barn and several other camp buildings, Heinrich’s efforts ensured the train’s survival.
Heinrich will be stepping down from his role at Leoni Meadows after this summer’s camping season to take on a new position in the education department as the small school pastor. The plaque will be permanently displayed on the station as a tribute to his legacy.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 12, 2025
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The weekend offered a much-needed pause from daily responsibilities—an opportunity to step back, share ideas, and find encouragement. Breakout sessions explored key topics like homelessness, fundraising, volunteer training, and forming community partnerships. Panel discussions created an opportunity to discuss challenges and explore practical ways to respond.
“It was so good to see the community service leaders and volunteers come together to learn, participate, and share information from their efforts,” said Kathy Batchelor, organizer of the event. “It was evident that these dedicated individuals are working in their communities and forwarding our core purpose, leading others to an abundant life in Jesus and preparing them for His soon return.”
James Lim, NCC Community Services Director, stated, “I am so glad that we could resume our ACS retreat this year. We had wonderful presentations from the Pacific Union and North American Division ACS leaders. It was a great time to relax and reconnect for our local ACS leaders, who have tirelessly worked in their communities.”
Featured in Northern Lights, June 12, 2025
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By Laurie Trujillo, CFRE
NCC Director of Communication and Development
The Pacific Union Conference Education Code, adopted by the Northern California Conference, is more than a manual of operational policies—it’s a spirit-led, values-based framework designed to foster safe, nurturing, and spiritually grounded learning environments. Rooted in biblical principles, it governs every aspect of our school operations, including staffing, curriculum, financial stewardship, professional conduct, and student safety.
Ellen G. White once wrote, “True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study… It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man” (Education, p. 13). This holistic vision is reflected in the Education Code’s dual focus: protecting students and honoring educators.
Albert Miller, Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference (NCC), explains, “We’re not just filling classrooms. We’re calling people to a ministry. Our educators are spiritually grounded and professionally equipped—trained not only to teach, but to mentor students into thoughtful, Christ-centered lives.”
It affirms student well-being through a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, aligning with NCC policy that requires immediate reporting of any suspected child abuse or neglect. Comprehensive screening and training—including background checks and abuse prevention certifications—are mandated for all school personnel by NCC policy and supported by the Code.
To further safeguard students, schools must conduct regular safety audits, maintain effective emergency protocols, and create environments where students feel emotionally and physically secure. Grounded in Christian compassion, NCC holds all staff to the highest standards of integrity and respectful interaction. Confidential and accessible reporting mechanisms for students and their families ensure that every voice is heard, and every concern is taken seriously.
“Safety goes beyond compliance,” Miller says. “While we meet all of California’s legal requirements for working with children, for us, it’s more than legal—it’s deeply moral. We want every child to feel safe, seen, and loved.”
It safeguards the dignity of those called to teach. Investigations involving staff must be conducted in a confidential, fair, and impartial manner. Employees are guaranteed due process, including the right to respond, access support, and receive updates.
Its goal is to foster a professional culture of trust, transparency, and growth, emphasizing respectful communication and restorative practices. “We don’t rush to judgment or jump to conclusions,” Miller explains. “Clear expectations matter, but so does restoration.”
In today’s complex world, NCC’s adoption of the Pacific Union Conference Education Code serves as both a shield and a compass, protecting the vulnerable and guiding educators in their sacred mission.
Recently, a student sent us a letter: “I didn’t grow up Adventist and struggled in public school, never seeing much purpose in learning. That changed when I enrolled in an Adventist school near our new home. Expecting the same thing, I was surprised to be met with compassion, patience, and a teacher who helped me discover both Jesus and a love for learning. For the first time, I cared about school, found subjects I enjoyed, and began dreaming about the future with Jesus in my life. Even with severe ADHD, I feel accepted and respected. I look forward to attending the academy near my home.”
With 31 schools, more than 2,000 students, and over 200 educators, NCC’s education system is the longest-running evangelistic effort in our territory. In 2024, school-age children and youth accounted for 18% of all NCC baptisms.
“Adventist education is more than academics,” Miller concludes. “It’s about shaping lives—one heart, one mind at a time—for this life and the life to come.”
Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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With over 25 years of pastoral and chaplaincy experience, Yabut joined the NCC in 2022 as pastor of the Anderson Church.
Having ministered in Canada, the Philippines, and the U.S, he brings years of ministry experience, a deep love for people, and a heart for pastoral care.
Yabut stated, “When I was asked to make this change, I knew right away that God was leading me to something very important. The opportunity humbled me, and I am privileged to serve in this role, supporting our pastors and their families.
One of Ron’s favorite Bible verses is Micah 6:8—“What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
He is joyfully married to Jennevi, his wife of 28 years, and they are blessed with three children: Alden, Ashley, and Aiden.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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Approximately 800 people attended the event, which included church members, friends, and guests. The program featured reflections on the church’s beginnings, stories of God’s guidance through challenges, and uplifting music, both solo and choral.
Organized in 2004 with 86 members, the church has grown into a vibrant congregation of 367 members, along with 110 children and 70 youth. Committed to evangelism and community service, the church has implemented ministries such as Pathfinders, Adventurers, youth Bible studies, choirs, and a growing media ministry. In 2017, the church also planted the Ukrainian Seventh-day Adventist Church in Sacramento, which is now home to about 200 members.
Several longtime members shared personal memories, adding depth and meaning to the occasion. Church leaders expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness over the years and acknowledged the dedication of the church family. The event served as a reminder of the incredible things that can be accomplished when a community remains committed to its mission and to one another.
Featured in Northern Lights, May 15, 2025
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