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Hispanic Ministries

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Lizeth Momanga Named NCC Director of Church Growth and Evangelism
Lizeth Momanga Named NCC Director of Church Growth and Evangelism 4000 2250 Ken Miller

We are pleased to announce that Lizeth Momanga is the new Director of Church Growth and Evangelism.

Momanga brings more than 15 years of experience in pastoral ministry, church planting, and evangelism. She has served congregations in the United States and Australia, planting churches, strengthening congregations, developing leaders, and creating initiatives that help churches connect with their communities.

José Marín, president, shared, “I believe Lizeth’s experience and passion for mission and mentorship will be a tremendous resource to our pastors and churches. She understands that healthy church growth begins with making disciples, equipping leaders, and helping our churches connect meaningfully with their communities.”

A graduate of Pacific Union College with a degree in theology, Momanga is currently completing dual Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work degrees at Andrews University. Her graduate studies have further shaped an approach to ministry that integrates evangelism, pastoral care, church health, and a deeper understanding of the people and communities churches are called to serve.

Throughout her ministry, Momanga has planted and pastored congregations, served on church planting and evangelism task forces, trained pastors and lay leaders, led international evangelistic efforts, and presented on church planting, leadership, and ministry.

Most recently, Momanga has served as senior pastor of the Tracy Seventh-day Adventist Church and as a member of the NCC Evangelism Task Force.
Momanga and her husband, Richard Ogeto Momanga, have shared much of their ministry journey together. During their years in Australia, they served the Wallsend church for four years before returning to the United States in 2022.

In her new role, Momanga will work with pastors, churches, and lay leaders throughout the conference to strengthen congregations, support church planting, develop leaders, and advance creative, community-focused approaches to sharing the gospel across Northern California.

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Reencountering Jesus
Reencountering Jesus 4000 2250 Ken Miller

With nearly 500 women in attendance and the theme “A Sus Pies” (At His Feet), the Northern California Conference Hispanic Ministries Department held its annual Hispanic Women’s Ministries Retreat at Leoni Meadows.

Women from churches across the conference gathered for a weekend of worship, Bible study, and fellowship centered on developing a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Throughout the retreat, speakers encouraged attendees to bring every aspect of their lives to Christ and embrace the calling God has given them in ministry. Music, prayer, and small-group interactions provided opportunities for women to share their experiences and encourage one another in their faith.

Florinda Guevara, director of Hispanic Women’s Ministries, shared, “This was a time for reencountering Jesus, to celebrate His goodness and to once again learn about the special place Christian women have in ministry for our Lord.”

Several women shared their testimonies of attending a Christian event for the first time and encountering Jesus in a personal way. Their stories became one of the highlights of the weekend and served as a reminder of God’s continuing work in the lives of those seeking Him.

Guevara concluded, “Each year, this retreat emphasizes the important role women play in sharing Christ’s love in their homes, churches, and communities.”

Featured in Northern Lights, June 25, 2026
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Hayward Spanish Church Begins Relational Outreach in Union City
Hayward Spanish Church Begins Relational Outreach in Union City 3887 2016 Ken Miller

In March, members of the Hayward Spanish Church stepped into Union City with one goal: to lay the groundwork for a future church. Every visit, conversation, and act of service was part of building relationships that could grow into a thriving congregation.

Volunteers knocked on doors, listened to neighbors’ stories, shared meals, handed out literature, and prayed with residents—meeting real needs while planting seeds for the church. Youth and young adults led activities, guided conversations, and modeled kindness and a servant’s heart, showing the community that the church is present, caring, and ready to serve.

In advance the teams set up posters with messages of hope, invited residents to gatherings, and filled the streets with Christian music, creating spaces where neighbors felt welcome and engaged. The result? Residents opened up—some asking for prayer for family health, others eager to join a Bible study, and a few expressing interests in community meals or youth programs. Several shared contact information, giving the team a path for follow-up and ongoing relationship-building.

“Seeing neighbors open up and share their needs reminded us why we serve together,” said Stennett Nash, pastor of the Hayward Spanish Church. “Every visit, every conversation, every act of service is a step toward planting a church here.“The day ended with new friendships formed, prayer requests collected, and a sense of hope for what’s to come—a first step in a journey that will continue as the church grows alongside the community it serves.

<em>Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 2026</em>

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Young Adventurers Bring Thanksgiving Joy to Oakmont Home
Young Adventurers Bring Thanksgiving Joy to Oakmont Home 3872 2044 Ken Miller

Children from the Pleasant Hill Spanish Adventurers Club spread holiday cheer at the Oakmont Home of Concord, sharing gifts and literature with residents, nurses, and staff. Their visit was a reminder of Christ’s grace and a gesture of companionship for the grandparents and caregivers at the facility.

Adventurers is the church’s club ministry for the youngest children, ages 4 to 10. Named the Capybaras, the club, formed just three months ago, has been cultivating a spirit of service among its members, encouraging them to live out their faith through practical acts of kindness. This outreach allowed the young participants to show care and attention, especially to those who may not often receive such loving support.

Leaders described the day as a meaningful expression of the church’s calling to serve others with humility and love.

Featured in Northern Lights, December 1, 2025
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NCC Urban Ministries Workshop Equips Churches to Serve Their Communities
NCC Urban Ministries Workshop Equips Churches to Serve Their Communities 3869 2052 Ken Miller

By Kathy Batchelor

The Northern California Conference Urban Ministries Department hosted its Urban Ministries Workshop on November 9, 2025, at the Fairfield Church. Pastors, ministry leaders, and members from across the conference gathered to explore practical ways to engage their communities through meaningful service, outreach, and discipleship.

Participants attended breakout sessions on evangelism, community partnerships, recovery ministry, discipleship, and youth engagement—each designed to help churches create sustainable, long-term impact. Virge Newman, a volunteer from the Pittsburg Church, shared, “As my community project, I chose assembling hygiene kits for the homeless! I am now inspired to organize a family gathering to prepare hygiene kits for the homeless in my city!”

Speakers highlighted how deep connections can form when churches work hand-in-hand with their communities and partner organizations. In the afternoon, attendees put their learning into action through hands-on service projects. Teams assisted at the Fairfield Thrift Store, distributed blessing bags, and prayed with shoppers at Food 4 Less. They also cleaned trash in the surrounding neighborhood and assembled hygiene kits for those in need.

The day concluded with participants inspired, equipped, and committed to expanding their community engagement—demonstrating that meaningful ministry happens when the church shows up with compassion and purpose. Josie Asencio, Pastor of the Antioch Church, reflected, “I’m thankful to be part of the Urban Ministries Team, especially when we get to train people on how to partner with their communities through service. That is an important aspect of discipleship.”

Featured in Northern Lights, December 1, 2025
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Summer Camp Meetings Celebrate God’s Work Across Cultures
Summer Camp Meetings Celebrate God’s Work Across Cultures 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Each summer, the Northern California Conference’s camp meetings become vibrant gatherings where believers from many backgrounds unite to worship, learn, and grow in Christ. Whether beneath the towering redwoods at the Redwood Camp Meeting, gathered in fellowship at Rio Lindo Academy’s Hispanic Camp Meeting, or lifting voices in praise at Pacific Union College’s Korean Camp Meeting, each event reflects the rich cultural diversity of our faith family.

These gatherings, made possible through the dedication of directors, pastors, staff, and volunteers, offer more than worship and fellowship. They serve as spiritual touchstones, renewing faith, forging new friendships, and strengthening the bonds between cultures in ways that echo the unity of heaven.

Korean Camp Meeting — Pacific Union College

From July 20-27, more than 1,000 attendees participated in the Korean Camp Meeting, a highlight for the Asian Pacific Ministries community. “It was so fantastic, the turnout,” said James Lim, Asian Pacific Ministries director. “What is significant each year is the growing number of second-generation participants.”

Evenings featured music, testimonies, and mission reports from around the world. For many families, the event offered both spiritual renewal and a reconnection to cultural heritage. Participants left inspired to share Christ within their own communities and beyond.

Redwood Camp Meeting — A Gathering Beneath the Trees

From July 27 to August 2, 1300 worshipers came together in the majestic setting of the Northern California redwoods.

The diversity of the gathering was evident, with the Hispanic Ministries amphitheater drawing more than 300 attendees. A growing Ukrainian and Slavic group, now numbering over 80, joined as well, with Pastor Andriy Mykhaylovskyy translating sermons in real-time for those who speak little or no English. For the younger members, Pastors noted a joyful increase in children and young adults filling the camp with laughter, games, and spirited worship.

“From camp-pitch to the last sermon, Redwood was a meaningful experience,” said Pastor Vince Saunders of The Haven Church. “Our young adult team, each inviting their circle of friends, filled our meeting tent to overflowing. It was a great turnout and reminds us that Redwood continues to be a special gathering for faith and fellowship.”

Camp Director Steve Babb reflected, “Redwood was a living reminder that faith changes everything. From early preparations to the final Sabbath, I saw teams working with dedication and joy—media leaders extending the experience online, sanitation crews maintaining high standards, and volunteers quietly solving problems behind the scenes. We look forward to building on this spirit as we prepare for our 50th anniversary next year.”

Hispanic Camp Meeting — Rio Lindo Academy

From August 15–17, over 800 friends, families, and volunteers gathered for Pentecost Harvest at Rio Lindo Academy. The campus buzzed with shared meals, heartfelt worship, colorful tents, and banners waving in the summer breeze. The church service was so overflowing that approximately 200 worshipers sat outside and listened. At the river, hundreds sang as forty souls answered the call for baptism.

“We are so blessed with our Rio Lindo event,” said Paul Guevara, Hispanic Ministries Coordinator. “Members of our churches make this gathering possible by bringing their communities, hearts of service, and the love of God.”

One Spirit, Many Cultures

As campers return to their home churches, they carry renewed faith, stronger relationships, and a shared sense of mission. Each of these gatherings demonstrates that God’s Spirit is at work—breaking down barriers, uniting people across languages and cultures, and offering a glimpse of the eternal fellowship we will one day share in His kingdom.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 21, 2025
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Created in God’s Image: NCC Issues Statement on Human Dignity and Justice
Created in God’s Image: NCC Issues Statement on Human Dignity and Justice 4000 2250 Ken Miller

In solidarity with our sister conference, the Southern California Conference, we affirm the “Gospel” and “Human Worth.”

The Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is home to an ethnically and linguistically diverse community in the Adventist world. Our churches worship in more than 14 languages, and our schools reflect the multicultural DNA of the neighborhoods they serve. This diversity is not a challenge to be solved but a gift to be celebrated – a visible testimony to the vision of Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne of God.

The officers of the Northern California Conference, in consideration of the current shifting immigration enforcement policies affecting our region that no longer treat churches and schools as “sensitive locations,” affirm the dignity of every human being and express deep concern for the fear, instability, and hardship these changes are causing among the families, churches, and schools we serve. We stand with the North American Division’s Appeal for Human Dignity and Decency, affirming that dehumanization through exclusion or fear contradicts biblical teaching (see Fundamental Belief No. 14). We align ourselves with the official statement of the North American Division, which affirms that as Christians we must stand in defense of those who are mistreated, marginalized, and cast aside. We echo that conviction and believe no one should be afraid to worship, learn, or seek solace in our institutions because of their immigration status.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are compelled by both Scripture and conscience to speak with clarity and compassion on behalf of the vulnerable, including immigrants and refugees, regardless of their legal status. The Bible is unambiguous in its call to care for the foreigner among us. The Lord says in Leviticus 19:34: “The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” Jesus Himself identifies with the marginalized in Matthew 25:35: “I was a stranger, and you invited me in.” We believe that to love and welcome the immigrant is not merely a political matter but a deeply spiritual one – an extension of the gospel itself.

We recognize that the current sweeping immigration practices have sown fear within our communities and caused disruption to the mission of our churches and schools. These policies have directly impacted our students, our members, our teachers, our pastors, and our neighbors – many of whom are here seeking safety, opportunity, and a better life for their children.

We cannot be silent when policies threaten the wholeness of our communities or when families are torn apart in our neighborhoods. We remain committed to creating spaces – whether in the classroom, the sanctuary, or the fellowship hall – where all feel safe, valued, and free to worship and grow without fear.

We encourage our members to advocate for just and compassionate policies that honor both the rule of law and the sacredness of human life.

In everything we do, we seek to exalt Christ by cultivating healthy churches and schools. This mission calls us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). As a conference, we will continue to support our immigrant brothers and sisters, to speak against injustice, and to stand as a witness to the transforming love of Jesus in an often-divided world.

We call on all our pastors, educators, and members to embody the welcoming spirit of the gospel and to be agents of peace, hope, and healing in their communities.

We are one body in Christ – diverse, united, and rooted in love.

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1,400 Strong: A Festival of Faith, Fellowship, and Gospel Mission
1,400 Strong: A Festival of Faith, Fellowship, and Gospel Mission 3623 1875 Ken Miller

On June 28, nearly 1,400 members from the Hispanic churches of the Northern California Conference gathered at Pacific Union College for a vibrant festival of faith, joy, and gratitude.

Pastors, members, lay workers, and families from across the region gathered to recognize the inspiring work and workers in their local churches. The day was alive with music, heartfelt worship, and testimonials of service. Groups paraded joyfully, bearing banners that noted their particular ministry, publicly declaring their passion for spreading the Gospel and advancing God’s kingdom.

A highlight of the gathering was the recognition of more than 50 lay leaders who have faithfully served their congregations and communities. Nominated by pastors and leaders of their respective churches, they were celebrated as shining examples of active discipleship and commitment to God’s mission. One visitor, who is receiving Bible studies, came and received an award on behalf of his mentor, who was unable to make the trip.

Paul Guevara, Hispanic Ministries Coordinator, stated, “This was an important celebration, and thank you to the many passionate pastors and dedicated volunteers who serve our communities.”

Featured in Northern Lights, July 24, 2025
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A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact
A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact 3894 2072 Ken Miller

July 27 – August 2, 2025, Redwood Camp Meeting promises something special under Northern California’s towering redwoods: Inspiring speakers, exceptional children’s programs, and a God-filled community experience that draws people back year after year.

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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Hispanic Mens Retreat
Hispanic Mens Retreat 5081 2555 Ken Miller

In May, 125 men came together at Leoni Meadows for the annual Hispanic Men’s Retreat, titled, “Hombres de Acuerdo a su Corazón” — “Men After His Own Heart.”

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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