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

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Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest
Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest 696 928 Ken Miller

We regret to announce that Dudley Galusha, a member of The Haven church, passed away peacefully on June 6.

Galusha will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, country, and church. His legacy is inspiring, having contracted the building of numerous institutions in Northern California and beyond. He built schools such as Clearlake School, Foothills Elementary School, Humboldt Bay School, and Rio Lindo Academy. He also constructed churches in our territory, including Cloverdale, Fort Bragg, Meadow Vista, Napa, Pacific Union College, Pleasant Hill, and The Haven. Moreover, he constructed Leoni Meadows, Newton Hall (PUC), and Redwood Creek Camp. His influence even reached international shores with constructing the Frogmouth Chapel in Cooroy, Queensland, Australia.

Vince Saunders, pastor at The Haven, expressed, “Throughout his life, Dudley had a tremendously positive influence within our church and community. Even now, his legacy of support for education and church ministry continues through his family as they rebuild our school. He will be greatly missed, and the reunion in Heaven will be exhilarating!”

His daughter Cynthia wrote, “His long life was very full, and he leaves a lengthy & outstanding legacy in the field of construction in Northern California. His mental sharpness and dry wit remained intact to the very end of his 98 years on earth.”

A celebration of life will be held on July 27, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at The Haven SDA Church,15 Woodland Rd., Saint Helena, CA. In place of flowers, the family has requested any gifts be sent to the following:

Cookson Ranch Foundation (Redwood Creek)

P.O. Box 973, Blue Lake, CA 95525

Friends of Foothills School

711 Sunnyside Rd., St. Helena, CA 94574

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Ending Homelessness by 2032
Ending Homelessness by 2032 986 738 Ken Miller

Over the past year, our Council on Homelessness has worked tirelessly towards a high-level goal: achieving functional zero for a homeless population group in each county where we are present by 2032. This is an urgent mission, as functional zero means making homelessness rare and brief when it occurs, a milestone we are determined to reach.

Key initiatives include:

  • Developing the 1st Annual Summit on Ending Homelessness, to be held in November 2024.
  • Creating an Ending Homelessness Initiative Taskforce (EHIT) for each county where we are present, starting with Placer County.
  • Collaborating with Placer County to end homelessness for veterans.

Your civic engagement, advocacy, and healthcare expertise are crucial to our mission. We need three new members with these skills. Your knowledge and skills will be instrumental in expanding our efforts and guiding our work to end homelessness in our territory by 2032.

If you are passionate about making a difference and have the relevant expertise, we encourage you to join our Council on Homelessness. Click here for The Terms of Reference and a formal application.

With your help, we can make a significant impact and improve lives. We are committed to this cause and look forward to your contribution.

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Mission in Action, Part 1
Mission in Action, Part 1 4000 2250 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.

Over the following issues of Northern Lights, we will highlight 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.

Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication and Development

A Glimpse of the Kingdom of God by Matthew Baker, District Pastor

June 13 was a Sabbath to remember, echoing the sentiment of everyone involved in its organization. It was designated as Women’s Ministry Emphasis Sabbath.

The day began with Juanita Baker, the Women’s Ministry Regional Facilitator, unveiling a spectacular program featuring three speakers. Juanita herself preached about the “Woman at the Well,” followed by a captivating first-person narrative performance by Janice Nelson, which was both historical and Biblical.

Simultaneously, at the Eureka Church, Kate Edwards presented a message entitled “Higher Ground,” garnering positive feedback from members and visitors alike.

After the Arcata-McKinleyville service and a fellowship meal, Niki Eby shared a powerful testimony of healing in Jesus after her sister’s tragic death. This testimony inspired attendee Holly Klopfenstein to share, “It was amazing to hear Nicole Eby’s testimony because only God can give the spirit of forgiveness that she exhibits. She showed what the Spirit can do in our lives if we let Him.” Brad Nelson, a volunteer stated, “The Women’s Ministry weekend was very inspiring. Listening to the testimony on the loss of a sister by murder had a large impact on me. It showed me what God’s tremendous love can do for us by turning ashes into beauty.” A grief recovery session followed, offering practical advice on how to recover from tragic events.

As the day seemed to wind down, conversations and expressions of appreciation continued, fostering unity and a sense of shared experience. The final concert by the Adoration Choir, led by Dr. Jim Tayag from Sacramento in the sanctuary, felt like a glimpse of the Kingdom of God, leaving everyone uplifted and united. Indeed, it was a busy day, but undeniably, it was a Sabbath to remember!

Featured in Northern Lights, July 18, 2024

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Carmichael VBS a Bustling Circus of Activity
Carmichael VBS a Bustling Circus of Activity 3989 2531 Ken Miller

Each summer, many churches in our territory offer Vacation Bible School. The annual community outreaches are a testament to faithful tithe givers and generous donations.

The Carmichael Church Vacation Bible School (VBS) has a rich tradition of serving community children while enriching the lives of youth and adult volunteers. Recently, junior high and high school students gathered daily to teach, share joy in singing, and worship with over 100 younger children.

Youth pastor Benji Ferguson highlighted their program’s dual benefits: “Our VBS allows both youth and adult church members to invite neighborhood families to our church for a fun and edifying experience. It’s also a great opportunity for our volunteers to tap into their spiritual gifts by decorating rooms, learning storylines, acting, and disciplining every child entering their station.”

Associate pastor and VBS coordinator Melissa Howell expressed her pride in the Carmichael team: “Every day, VBS is a joy, a blessing, and a bustling circus of activity. I couldn’t be more proud of the event we put on.” This sentiment was echoed by many youth volunteers. Sophomore Kian exclaimed, “I love working with the kids and being part of why they are having fun.” Freshman Melody added, “I love how excited everyone is to learn about God.”

The summer tradition’s positive and welcoming atmosphere attracts a diverse audience, including a single father who had just moved to the area with his two young children. After seeing the outdoor sign on the church lawn, he brought his children every night.

Ferguson concluded, “It is a privilege to teach and learn from our volunteers. They understand the church’s mission to serve the community, and each uses their creativity and talents to show God’s love. I can’t wait for VBS next summer!”

Did your church have a VBS program this year? Take our short survey and tell us about it!

Featured in Northern Lights, July 11, 2024
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Joseph O’Connor Ordained
Joseph O’Connor Ordained 912 1049 Ken Miller

On June 22, Joseph O’Connor was ordained at the Sacramento Fijian Church.

Born in the island country of Fiji, O’Connor credits his mother’s gentle guidance with leading him to serve God. His subsequent service in Fiji eventually led him to the United States, where he earned a Master of Divinity from Andrews University and, more recently, a Master of Clinical Pastoral Education.

O’Connor spearheaded the formation of the Sacramento Fijian church and has pastored there since 2009. Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, stated, “Joseph’s ordination is unique and very special as he is the first Fijian pastor to be ordained in a Fijian church, the only one in North America!”

He shares his life with Sotia, his wife of 28 years. They have three children: Job, Ruben, Wise, and a granddaughter, Kama’ya.

Featured in Northern Lights, July 11, 2024
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Granite Bay Serves Panama
Granite Bay Serves Panama 1600 1200 Ken Miller

In April 2024, over 250 members and friends of Granite Bay Hilltop church, set out for the beautiful country of Panama for a weeklong mission trip.

The Panama mission project focused on three lines of ministry, including medical and dental Clinic, 2) Church Building Projects, and 3) Pastoral Training and Capacity building. The busy week would conclude on Sabbath with a gathering of SDA church members from around the country.

The medical and dental clinic, a collaboration between the Panama Union, Ministry of Health, Granite Bay leaders, and the Holy Spirit, served 1,750 patients over four days. Each day, healthcare professionals and auxiliary staff arrived to find hundreds of patients waiting to be seen. The healthcare team expressed their joy to serve and cited Christ’s words in Acts 20:35, “‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

During the team’s time in Panama, two major church-building projects were carried out on the outskirts of Panama City. The projects would provide infrastructure and invaluable support to local communities. Volunteers remodeled a church in time for the first Sabbath service and laid the foundation for another church.

For two consecutive days, volunteers and the NCC pastoral staff at Granite Bay Hilltop church provided training to 150 pastors and church leaders from various parts of Panama City. In addition, they were provided with the course material to continue studying it in depth and share it in future training with their church members and lay gospel workers.

The Granite Bay Hilltop Church remains committed to fulfilling the gospel commission of Matthew 28:19-20, with a unified purpose under the Holy Spirit, looking forward to Christ’s soon return.
Featured in Northern Lights, June 27, 2024
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Sonja Cartwright Installed at Santa Rosa
Sonja Cartwright Installed at Santa Rosa 2542 3381 Ken Miller

Sonja Cartwright was recently installed as the associate pastor of the Santa Rosa church.

Cartwright graduated from Sacramento Academy and worked at Leoni Meadows during her college years. She stated, “My love for ministry was gradually defined by working with the campers at Leoni and my conversations with God. I love to share Jesus with people and travel with them on their path, giving youth and young adults the tools to become disciples and disciple-makers.”

Brad Gienger, pastor, remarked, “We’re excited to have Sonja on our team for not only her community-building skills but personality and incredible ability to make God’s word come to life.”

Cartwright recently graduated from Andrews University with a Master of Divinity degree. She says her favorite Bible text is Ecclesiastes 3:11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

Featured in Northern Lights, June 27, 2024
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Thrilling Matches Create Enduring Community Connections
Thrilling Matches Create Enduring Community Connections 1872 971 Ken Miller

The Federación de Jóvenes Adventistas (Federation of Adventist Youth—FeJA) recently organized an indoor soccer tournament at the Golden Gate Academy gymnasium. Approximately 200 Adventist and non-Adventist guests participated in a spirited competition and community bonding day.

Ruben Vargas, district pastor of Napa, St. Helena, and Sonoma Spanish churches, stated, “FeJA organizes three to four tournaments yearly at several different churches according to the church’s capability and schedule.”

The Golden Gate edition showcased thrilling matches and featured a delightful spread of freshly prepared food generously provided by the San Leandro Spanish Church. The crowning moment of the tournament came as the Richmond Spanish team emerged victorious, clinching a remarkable 4-0 win against Lodi Spanish in the final match.

The success of these events is a testament to the meticulous planning and unwavering dedication of the FeJA team, as well as the invaluable support of local youth leaders and pastors. Vargas stated, “All pastors that are part of the Hispanic ministries team are affiliated with FeJA. Their dedication and collaborative efforts have enriched the participants’ lives and sown the seeds for enduring connections and meaningful relationships within the community.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 6, 2024
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A Commitment to Community Relevance
A Commitment to Community Relevance 2000 1125 Ken Miller

The Willits Church is committed to remaining relevant to its community by engaging in personal and interactive initiatives that offer valuable service to those around them.

The church runs two ministries that extend compassion beyond its walls, namely the farmer’s market which offers visitors free clothes, food, and spiritual literature, sparking conversations about faith and life.

The Willits Men’s Prayer Breakfast promotes fellowship among men from diverse backgrounds and faiths. Through shared prayers and testimonies of faith, they foster unity and support.

Recently, Ben Capps was baptized, marking a significant milestone in his spiritual journey. His newfound commitment to Jesus Christ was nurtured through Bible studies and supportive interactions with his fellow church members, reflecting the church’s focus on personal transformation and faith development.

The dedication and mentorship offered by the church members demonstrate their outreach ethos. They embody Christ’s love through service and fellowship, and together, they reflect a commitment to unity, compassion, and spiritual growth in the local community of Willits.

Featured in Northern Lights, May 2, 2024
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The Hopeful Movie Provides Witnessing Opportunities
The Hopeful Movie Provides Witnessing Opportunities 2990 2071 Ken Miller

During the premiere of The Hopeful on March 17th and 18th at a local theater, the Petaluma Church actively engaged with the community by distributing Glow tracks to passersby. This proactive outreach was a positive approach to community engagement, leveraging a cultural event to share faith and build bridges with the broader community.

This initiative aimed to create a dialog about Jesus Christ and the Adventist Church. Daniel Yim, pastor, reported that their team successfully distributed hundreds of tracks in the bustling Theater Square district, sparking genuine interest and inquiries about the Adventist faith. This feedback from the community is a testament to the impact of our outreach.

“These interactions were more than just distribution; they were opportunities to connect with people and share insights about their beliefs.” Pastor Yim expressed, “I pray that the Holy Spirit will follow these conversations and cultivate further curiosity and understanding among those they engaged with.”

Featured in Northern Lights, May 2, 2024
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