Ken Miller

In January, 32 pastors, educators, and administrators gathered at the Northern California Conference (NCC) office in Roseville for a full day of organizational health training.

The purpose was to equip trainees as organizational health consultants, prepared to guide leadership teams across the conference toward greater clarity, alignment, and effectiveness. Focus areas included clarifying priorities, building trust, aligning efforts, and establishing consistent meeting rhythms. Trainees were also introduced to concepts from The Working Genius framework, learning how to help leaders contribute to areas that energize them and complement team strengths—enabling teams to operate with greater energy, creativity, and results.

This training directly supports the NCC’s 2027 mission goal of embedding organizational health in at least 51% of churches, schools, and ministries, ensuring that healthy leadership practices become standard across the conference. Healthy leadership teams strengthen community initiatives, enhance employee and member engagement, and support church and school growth, ensuring ministries operate with clarity and purpose. By developing consultants from within, these practices are embedded into everyday leadership life, creating a shared language and consistent approach across the conference.

For the last five years, the conference has been on an intentional path to clarity in our ministries. Through prayer and disciplined effort, the NCC has laid the groundwork for a future marked by alignment, trust, and shared commitment to mission. This intentional approach is referred to as the NCC Advantage.

Featured in Northern Lights, February 26, 2026
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By Kathy Batchelor

In November, the Sacramento Indonesian Church gathered to bid a warm farewell to Pastor Bobby Sepang after more than 13 years of dedicated ministry.

James Lim, Asian/Pacific Ministries Coordinator, shared, “Although he had already completed a successful ministry and retired in Indonesia, Pastor Sepang answered the NCC’s call to serve the Sacramento Indonesian congregation. He stepped in during one of the church’s most challenging seasons, faithfully uniting the members and helping to establish strong lay leadership.”

The service included beautiful vocal and instrumental music, heartfelt expressions of gratitude, and a slide presentation highlighting memorable moments—from church retreats to baptisms and evangelistic efforts that led many to an abundant life in Jesus.

Following the service, a fellowship luncheon provided an opportunity for members to express their appreciation. While many tears were shed, the prevailing sentiment was gratitude for Pastor and Mrs. Sepang’s grace, humility, and steadfast commitment to God, along with confidence that they will continue serving faithfully upon returning to Indonesia.

Michael Pongoh, NCC Accountant and church member, said, “His leadership was steady, caring, and deeply personal. My family—like many others—was blessed by his prayerful guidance and wisdom.”
Lim concluded, “His ministry was truly outstanding guiding the church toward official organization while serving with a gentle spirit, steady leadership, and unwavering passion that will be remembered for a long time.”

Featured in Northern Lights, January 22, 2026
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