• Connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His return

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Dedication to God Through Sport
Dedication to God Through Sport 3968 2110 Ken Miller

Keilana Rivas, a Sacramento Adventist Academy (SAA) sophomore, made school history by qualifying for and competing in the California State Championship cross-country race. This 5-kilometer race features challenging terrain, including hills, dirt, and gravel.

Keilana dedicated her athletic talent to glorifying God. A talented runner, she had the ability to advance to higher competitiions. But two key qualifying races as well as the state championship would fall on Sabbath. Fortunately, officials for each race granted exemptions for Leilana to compete on the Friday preceding each race. Having to run alone, without knowing how she would compare to others, she placed high enough in each to finally advance to the championship.

The week preceding the championship, Keilana battled a cold and woke up on her Friday race day feeling tired but showing determination. Despite the challenge, she ran with strength and finished with lots of support from family and friends who had traveled to see her run. Even race officials who were prepping for the Saturday championship paused their work to watch her run.

At the finish line, the race officials presented Keilana with a citizenship medal, recognizing her dedication, resilience, and ability to compete alone while still honoring her faith.

Featured in Northern Lights, January 9, 2025
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Center of Hope and Influence: A New Era for Community Service in Hayward
Center of Hope and Influence: A New Era for Community Service in Hayward 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On October 19, a five-year dream was realized as the Hayward Spanish Church unveiled its unique Center of Hope.

Led by Stennett Nash, pastor, and supported by Daniel Javes, Miriam Solman, Mary Len, Raquel Javes, and numerous dedicated volunteers, this vision was brought to life with generous funding from the Northern California Conference. The Center of Hope, a beacon of support, guidance, and connection, marks a significant expansion in how this faith community serves and uplifts Hayward and surrounding neighborhoods.

Nash expressed his commitment to the mission: “The Center of Hope is not just a program. It is part of our church. This will be a beacon of support, guidance, and connection until Jesus comes. Our purpose is to offer a place where people find real hope, practical resources, and the love of Christ in every interaction.”

The Center of Hope is dedicated to enhancing the community’s health, well-being, and prosperity. The well-established food bank is a vital resource, providing essential support to families in need. In addition, the Center will launch health outreach initiatives that leverage the area’s natural environment, including guided walks, cooking classes, and health fairs. Furthermore, the Center will offer Adult English Literacy and English as a Second Language classes, equipping participants with the skills necessary to secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Youth education is also a priority, with after-school tutoring for school-age children and teens fostering academic growth and self-confidence. Additionally, the Center will build a digital library for educational and personal development resources. Legal assistance and referrals to partner nonprofits will round out the Center’s offerings, ensuring comprehensive support for individuals and families in need.

During the dedication, Marc Woodson, president, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “One of our strategic anchors at NCC is community relevance, and the Center of Hope will be a transformative blessing for the Hayward community. This center mirrors the compassionate work of Jesus and allows us to be His hands and feet in the world.”

The Center of Hope stands as a living testament to the power of unity, compassion, and faith. Through ongoing support and the unwavering dedication of its leaders and volunteers, the Hayward Spanish Church is shining a light on what it means to serve selflessly and transform lives, one neighbor at a time.

Featured in Northern Lights, November 7, 2024
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Building Faith Stories Leads to Baptisms
Building Faith Stories Leads to Baptisms 1837 964 Ken Miller

Four Lodi Academy students were recently baptized at the Lodi English Oaks Church.

Manny Gonzales, youth pastor of Lodi English Oaks, explained, “It is a team effort between the church pastors and school chaplain, Jerry Mahn, to introduce students to Jesus and disciple them toward their own faith experiences. The ability to identify how God answers their prayers, expands a faith started from parents, teachers, pastors, and Bible stories. We believe understanding and cataloging their faith stories strengthens and keeps them completely connected to God and the church. We study this connection heavily during our baptismal classes.”

As a result, during Christmas break, four students chose to be baptized. One proud parent exclaimed, “As a parent, nothing brings more happiness than seeing tears of joy on my daughter’s face before her baptism. I was especially moved during the ceremony when the pastor paraphrased Matthew 3:17, saying, ‘This is my beloved daughter, whom I love; with her, I am well pleased.’ As she came out of the water, she had a glowing smile representing all the joy that heaven was experiencing at that moment.'”

Gonzales concluded, “We are blessed to witness our youth committing to Jesus. We often say in our baptismal classes, ‘This is just the beginning; now, what is your ministry?’ How are you going to begin your journey?”

Featured in Northern Lights, February 1, 2024
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School and Church Unite to Transform Lives
School and Church Unite to Transform Lives 150 150 Ken Miller

Siena was a seventh grader seeking a more loving and caring environment. Her experience in public school had left her feeling depressed and anxious. Concerned about their daughter’s struggles, her parents began exploring healthier schooling options for their family.

At the first meeting, parents Cassie and Ryan were impressed by the PHAA program. Although they were not actively pursuing any religion, Siena’s father, Ryan, expressed his growing contemplation of a higher power. Cassie, her mother, was motivated by a desire for safety and wholeness for Siena, but was also open to the idea of God’s Providence, and Siena enrolled for her eighth-grade year.

What unfolded next was surprising for everyone involved. By the end of the first semester, Siena demonstrated remarkable academic growth. Her anxiety levels diminished, and she developed a hunger for God and His Word. She began attending weekly Bible studies at school and going to the campus church on Sabbath without her parents.

A typically outgoing individual, Siena’s joy radiated even more as she connected with her peers. She began volunteering in the children’s department and became an active member of the Praise Team, eagerly attending Friday night youth group meetings.

Ryan and Cassie noticed the positive changes in Siena and started attending church themselves, amazed at their daughter’s transformation. When Siena expressed her desire to be baptized, neither her biological nor her new church family was surprised.

During her baptism ceremony, Siena confidently shared her love for God in front of the large audience. Since then, she has become a featured speaker at chapel services, delivering her compelling testimony with earnestness and clarity.

As a result of the school and church community, Ryan, Cassie, and their son are now involved members of the Pleasant Hill church and school family. This family’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that Christian Education transcends beyond individual students; it also has the capacity to transform entire families.

Featured in Northern Lights, December 5, 2024
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Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund
Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund 4800 2700 Ken Miller
The Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (NCC) has established the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund to provide a trusted avenue for support. This fund is dedicated to directly supporting the students, families, and staff of Feather River Adventist School, all of whom have been deeply impacted by this senseless and violent act.
In alignment with our values and ethical stewardship, we want to clarify that this fund supports the entire Feather River Adventist School community, not just two specific families. If you wish to restrict your support to Elias Wolford or Roman Mendez and their families, you may indicate this in the check memo line or the notes section of the online giving form. Because NCC is a conduit for support, ensuring that 100% of the contribution benefits those affected, gifts are not tax-deductible.
Please visit the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund Giving Link to contribute.  Or send your contributions to Northern California Conference, C/O Feather River School Support, 2100 Douglas Blvd, Roseville, CA 95661. If you have questions, you can email our Director of Communication and Development, laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com. Your support will play a vital role in helping our community heal and rebuild.

Click here to support.

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Back to School Joy and Excitement!
Back to School Joy and Excitement! 4000 2250 Ken Miller

The wheels of NCC education are spinning again, accelerating into a new year filled with hope.

As classes kick off, the excitement is tangible. Principals and teachers have met, aligning on the latest policies and embracing the mission ahead. Students are joyfully reacquainting with friends, getting used to new classrooms, and diving into their subjects.

Our Adventist schools uniquely blend academics with spiritual growth, fostering strong moral character and a deep personal relationship with God. Albert Miller, Superintendent, explained, “With high academic standards and small class sizes, our schools create a supportive environment that prepares students for life and eternity.”

As a result, many of our schools are reporting increases in enrollment. Rio Lindo Academy is welcoming about 40 new students, Pine Hills is increasing by 14, and El Dorado is reporting over 12 new beaming faces.

The contagious enthusiasm among educators and students is setting the stage for a year of growth, learning, and lasting memories. Let’s keep all our schools, students, and educators in our prayers.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 5, 2024
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Leoni Meadows: Transforming Lives One Camp at a Time
Leoni Meadows: Transforming Lives One Camp at a Time 3897 2051 Ken Miller

Leoni Meadows Camp is more than just a retreat center and camp—it’s an NCC ministry that creates abundant joy for children and adults of Northern and many other conferences, states, and an occasional country. In 2023, 20% of the guests who visited Leoni were not from Northern.

Kristen Lo from Sonora, California, is one of them, as she explains her Family Camp experience, “This was our second year at family camp. Every activity resonated with our family; there was something for everyone. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff. Their kindness and patience, reflecting the traits of Jesus, will keep us coming back.”

Craig Heinrich, camp director, reflected, “Our daily mission is to connect our visitors to an abundant life in Jesus Christ and prepare them for His soon return. Since COVID and the Caldor fire, returning the camp to normal has been challenging. This summer was the first in many where I could truly state everything was normal.”

The staff’s impact on campers is profound, showing a motivation to love, serve, and teach. Wrangler camp staff member Elia Privat witnessed, “We celebrated nine baptisms at teen camp and six more at junior camp this summer. For each, the staff gathered around the kids as they were baptized, praying, singing, and cheering as they emerged from the water. Watching the Holy Spirit work was incredibly inspiring. It united us as a team and motivated us to serve each other and each camper at a deeper level.”

Leoni Meadows is a beacon of hope and service and a place for spiritual growth, which impacts those who spend time there. Its success as a ministry is a testament to a team of cheerful givers, tireless volunteers, and employees who find immense joy and satisfaction in providing a camp and retreat center that honors God.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 22, 2024
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Waves and Thunder rolled Through Northern
Waves and Thunder rolled Through Northern 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Every summer, NCC churches prepare for a special event that brings their communities together in a whirlwind of excitement, faith, and discovery.

With the adventurous Thunder Island and SCUBA themes this year, Vacation Bible School (VBS) became a journey into the tropical islands, the ocean’s depths, and, more importantly, into the hearts of the children and families who attended.

Over 1,600 children attended VBS across our territory. Nearly 60% from non-Adventist backgrounds dove into this week-long adventure, with 36% returning from previous years. This percentage indicates sustained engagement with the local church.

Kimberly Riddle of the Tracy church stated, “VBS gives us an opportunity to work as a church team and also connect with families and volunteers we may only see during VBS.”

Behind the scenes, more than 360 volunteers of all ages guided the children through the activities. As reported, Jaymes Cheney from Carmichael Church stated, “Seeing my son excited to be at church and about his group leader, Dylan, a high school student, is incredible. It’s so great to see students helping inspire the younger kids.”

As reported by Yvette Reiber, a highlight of the week for the Yuba City Church, was the story of Jonah told inside a makeshift whale’s belly, complete with bubbles, mist, and seaweed. The 17 preschoolers were captivated, their eyes wide with wonder. At this moment, they revealed the true power of VBS—teaching biblical stories in ways that resonate deeply with young hearts and minds.

Barry van Iderstein, Director of Children’s Ministries, shared decorations and support materials with thirteen churches this summer to help them maximize resources and stretch small budgets. “It is inspiring to see how our smaller churches can host big-church VBS programs that truly impact and engage the children of their communities. I’m already looking forward to next year, with the recent release of the 2025 SDA VBS program, Mountain of Miracles.”

If you have ever attended, you know VBS is a whirlpool of high energy, fun, and joy. Like the ocean waves and warm tropical breeze, the Holy Spirit flows through VBS, connecting children and their families closer to an abundant life with Jesus.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 15, 2024
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Joy at Redwood Camp Meeting
Joy at Redwood Camp Meeting 3894 2072 Ken Miller

On July 27, another week of praise, worship and fellowship at Redwood Camp Meeting came to a close.

Harry Salvini, camp director, praised a dedicated team of volunteers, NCC pastors, staff, invited speakers, and campers who contributed to a blessed and successful week of worship under the Redwoods.

Becky Farfan, camp registrar, reported that 430 campsites were filled, and more than 1,300 individuals went through the registration process. These numbers did not include those staying in local hotels or visiting for the day. She noted, “By the end of the week, over fifty families showed their enthusiasm by pre-registering for camp in 2025!”

Paul Guevara, Hispanic ministries coordinator, highlighted a significant attendance increase in the Hispanic division. A volunteer passing by Sequoia Grove, the Spanish language amphitheater, exclaimed, “I heard the most glorious music flowing from that area like it was coming straight from heaven.”

Joyful pastors and division leaders indicated that parents and children greatly appreciated the fun and engaging spiritual programming. One family, initially planning to leave halfway through the week, was strongly encouraged by their children to stay for the entire time so they wouldn’t miss a meeting.

Jennifer Shaw, camp secretary, reflected, “As I was walking back from a friend’s site on the final night, I could hear the laughter of happy families echoing through the tall trees. I felt simultaneously exhausted and energized and thanked God for letting me be a part of this wonderful ministry.”

Featured in Northern Lights, August , 2024
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Mission-in-Action Part 3 of 3
Mission-in-Action Part 3 of 3 3844 2031 Ken Miller

Prologue – by Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication and Development
It is a privilege to share the stories of our churches, ministries, and schools. In June, a trend emerged in the reported stories, reminding me of the promises in Acts 1:8 and Joel 2:28-29, highlighting the Holy Spirit’s transformative work among all believers.

This is the third edition (read part 1 here) (read part 2 here) of three Northern Lights stories highlighting three beautiful stories where the Holy Spirit’s presence was felt: a Women’s Ministry event at the Arcata-McKinleyville and Eureka Churches, a wave of spontaneous baptisms at Capital City Church in Sacramento, and the Youth Ministries’ Summer on the Run event in Stockton.

The Power of Faith: Summer on the Run Brings Hope and Transformation

June 24-28: Summer on the Run stories are filled with the Holy Spirit’s touch, creating a space for service and building trust in a community. This year was no exception. The unique outreach program, in partnership with Stockton Central Church, welcomed 105 community youth, offering them an unforgettable experience.

The impact of the program was evident when a neighborhood youth chose to attend church instead of going on a planned boat trip, sharing, “I had such a great time with the kids and staff that I wanted to be around them more.”

David Peckham, the church pastor, joyfully shared, “Our church team, comprised of passionate adults and spirited youth, eagerly prepared for this traveling summer program. Our volunteers went door to door, inviting children to join us for an extraordinary week of activities. The team also spread the word through flyers in our neighborhood, bulletin inserts in other churches, and even reached out to a non-denominational school next door.”

With the dedication of over 30 volunteers, nearly 500 lunches were served during the week as children participated in games, challenges, and worship activities. Peckham added, “The Holy Spirit was undeniably present and moving hearts. Two volunteers, who had only planned to help for one day, were so moved that they committed to baptism.”

Eddie Heinrich, NCC Youth Director, explained the challenges faced, “The park city officials where we host the event told us that we could not host the event at all. After much prayer and a second request, we received great news—the city officials reconsidered and allowed us to host the event. The Holy Spirit moved their hearts, and it was a true miracle that inspired further action.”

Peckham continued, “Many of our guests eagerly asked about other church events, and we will continue to maintain our connection with this young community.”

Featured in Northern Lights, August 1, 2024
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Every Thursday morning, Northern Lights, the official news source of the Northern California Conference, shares how churches, schools, and members are connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His soon return.

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