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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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Leslie Bartsch New Associate Superintendent of Schools
Leslie Bartsch New Associate Superintendent of Schools 3875 2012 Ken Miller

Leslie Bartsch has accepted the position of Associate Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference, bringing nearly three decades of experience in Adventist education.

Originally planning a career in law, Bartsch studied history and political science at La Sierra University. During her final year of college, a placement in a second-grade classroom shifted her trajectory. That experience clarified her calling to education, and after earning her teaching credential, she began teaching in Fontana in 1998.

Guided by a belief that every child can learn—and that students develop at different paces and in different ways—Bartsch has built her career around supporting student growth and helping schools create environments where learning can take root. She joined Chico Oaks Adventist School in 2008 and became principal in 2018. The school also holds deep personal significance, with three generations of her family attending, including her sons, Wyatt and Conner.

In her new role, Bartsch plans to draw on her classroom and administrative experience to support principals and teachers across the Northern California Conference. Her focus remains on strengthening schools and continuing to serve students through strong, mission-centered leadership.

Patty Osborne, NCC Vice President of Education, shared, “Leslie is the perfect fit for our conference. She has earned trust everywhere she has served—with her school families, her colleagues, and the principals who work alongside her. I couldn’t be more excited for our schools to have her support.”

Leslie and her husband, Rob, whom she met while attending Rio Lindo Adventist Academy, have been married for 29 years. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends

Featured in Northern Lights, June, 25 2026
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When Am I Too Old to Work for God?
When Am I Too Old to Work for God? 4000 2250 Ken Miller

By Rioboie Mabugay

There is a quiet question that often lingers in the hearts of many believers as the years go by: When is it time to step aside? After decades of service, sacrifice, and faithfulness, it can feel reasonable—even deserved—to say, “I have put in my time. Let someone else take over. I want to travel, rest, and enjoy what years I have left.”

And yet, the kingdom of God does not measure usefulness the way the world does.

In 2018, Ruthe Levy was nominated to serve as treasurer of the Anderson church. It was not a short-term assignment nor was it symbolic. It was real responsibility—numbers, accountability, consistency. Now, eight years later, she still serves in that same role. This April, she turned 99 years old.

Every Monday morning, she gets into her car and drives herself to church. The journey is not effortless; it includes navigating nearly a mile of steep, winding road. Many would consider that reason enough to step down. But not Ruthe.
For her, this is not about obligation. It is mission. Her question has never been, “When can I stop?” Instead, it is, “When will I have to stop because I am no longer able?” That quiet difference speaks volumes.

In a culture that often equates aging with stepping back, the life of faith calls us to a different perspective. Scripture never assigns an expiration date to purpose. As long as there is breath, there is calling. As long as there is life, there is ministry.

God does not retire His workers. Moses was called at 80. Caleb, at 85, still asked for a mountain to conquer. Anna, well advanced in years, worshiped and witnessed daily in the temple. Time, in God’s hands, does not diminish usefulness—it refines it.

What Ruthe demonstrates is something deeply powerful: service is not about age but about willingness. It is not about how much strength we have left but about how much heart we still give.

Yes, seasons change. Responsibilities may shift. The body may slow. But the mission remains. There are always prayers to be offered, encouragement to be given, wisdom to be shared, and faith to be lived out before others.

We are reminded that the work of God is not sustained by youthful energy alone but by enduring devotion. And now, we stand on the edge of eternity with a hope that burns brighter than ever—Jesus is coming soon. This is not the time to withdraw from the mission but to lean into it with renewed purpose.

The question is not, “Have I done enough?”
The question is, “What can I still do?”
Each of us has a role in preparing hearts for that day. Whether through quiet faithfulness like Ruthe or through visible leadership, every act of service matters. Every life surrendered to God becomes a testimony.

So when are we too old to work for God?
The answer is simple: when He calls us home.
Until then, the mission continues.

Featured in Northern Lights, May 21, 2026
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Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for NCC.
Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for NCC. 4000 2250 Ken Miller

When Patrice (Patty) Osborne reflects on her journey in Adventist education, it always comes back to a first-grade classroom—and a teacher who saw something in her early on, “She told me I needed to go into education,” Osborne recalled. “It’s a decision I have never regretted.” That early encouragement helped shape a calling that has now spanned more than forty years.

On May 6, the Northern California Conference Executive Committee elected Patty to serve as the new Vice President of Education after the retirement of Albert Miller, and she will begin in this role on July 1, 2026.
Osborne’s career began in 1982 and has taken her across multiple conferences, including Central California, Northern California, Southern California, and Texico. Along the way, she has served as a teacher, principal, and administrator, most recently as associate superintendent in the NCC Education Department.
A graduate of Andrews University, Osborne also holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, East Bay, and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Andrews University.
Throughout her career, Osborne has also prioritized family, finding a meaningful balance between home life and her ongoing commitment to education leadership. A devoted mother of four boys—including twins—she now enjoys the energy and joy of five young grandchildren, ages 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1.
For Osborne, Adventist education has always been about more than academics. “I would not be the Christian I am today without the influence of Adventist teachers,” she said. That conviction continues to shape her vision for the future.
As she steps into this new leadership role, Osborne speaks with both humility and purpose. “When I think about the extraordinary educators across this Conference, I am overwhelmed by the honor of being called to lead them,” she shared. “This is a sacred responsibility, and my commitment is to give my very best every single day.”
She is equally passionate about the broader mission of Adventist education, “Education is one of the most powerful ways we can reach our communities,” Osborne said. “It allows us into the lives of families in a way that is natural and welcomed. Over time, you’re not just teaching—you’re mentoring, guiding, and building relationships that can last a lifetime.”
Leaders across the Pacific Union and NCC have affirmed her appointment.
James P. Willis, Pacific Union Conference Vice President for Education, noted,“Patty is an outstanding educator who has significantly advanced the ministry of Adventist education. Her experience and preparation have equipped her well for this role.”
Marc K. Woodson, NCC President, added, “Patty brings a deep love for Adventist education, a wealth of experience, and a clear commitment to mission. Her leadership reflects both excellence and a genuine heart for students, educators, and families. We are grateful for the many years she has faithfully served in this ministry, and we are confident that God will continue to guide her as she steps into this important role. Patty understands that Adventist education is not just about academics—it is about shaping lives for eternity.”
Now stepping into this new chapter, Osborne carries forward a lifelong calling—one rooted in faith, shaped by mentorship, and lived out both in the classroom and at home. Her leadership will focus on strengthening schools, supporting educators, collaborating across ministries, and continuing to connect students and families to an abundant life in Jesus Christ.

Featured in Northern Lights, May, 2026

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Finding Common Ground in Yuba City
Finding Common Ground in Yuba City 2048 1536 Ken Miller

The Yuba City Church recently restarted a ministry for local families from the Punjabi community, drawing nearly 50 attendees—including both Sikh and Christian households. The gathering offers a spiritual home where many first-generation residents can worship, learn, and connect with one another in a welcoming environment.

Yuba City is home to one of the largest Punjabi populations in the U.S., with many families settling over the past century to farming and support careers. Their long-standing presence gives the church a unique opportunity to connect with a community that is deeply woven into the region’s culture and daily life.

The weekly service at Yuba City Church is led by Aamir Masih, chaplain at Rideout Hospital and lay pastor. It is held in the church’s youth chapel, where services in Punjabi and space for families to worship together help create a welcoming environment. Masih, inspired by the warmth he received from the church upon his return to Yuba City, wanted to be part of their mission and subsequently, lead this ministry. “By God’s grace, it has been wonderful,” he said.

Daniel Garza, pastor, shared, “The effort reflects something important about ministry today. Our community is diverse, and part of our calling is learning how to serve people in ways that make sense in their world. What began as a single Sabbath gathering is a daily reminder that being community relevant ministry is less about programs and more about relationships.”

Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 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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Building a Block of Community
Building a Block of Community 3791 1962 Ken Miller

The Oakland Spanish Church recently led a community resource event that took over an entire city block. Residents had the chance to explore more than twenty booths offering practical support from community services, including the police department, social services, and city representatives. Some booths provided food, while others offered health screenings and wellness education.

Paul Guevara, NCC Hispanic Ministry Coordinator, shared, “This event is part of the Oakland church’s ongoing plan to stay connected and relevant to the community. It was key in opening doors and strengthening collaboration between the church, the neighborhood, and the public and private services that support them.”

Visitors engaged with local leaders, gathered valuable information, and participated in hands-on activities. The Oakland Emmanuel Temple Church brought its community health van, providing free screenings and guidance for anyone who stopped by. Food, supplies, and other essentials were offered throughout the day, creating an atmosphere of care and connection.

As neighbors moved from booth to booth, conversations and relationships developed naturally. By stepping forward as an active partner in the neighborhood’s network of services, the church demonstrated that it isn’t just present—it is proactive. That visible engagement helps the community see the church as a trusted, reliable force, building confidence that it will continue to serve and respond alongside other local leaders.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 2026

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Student Leaders Training Student Leaders
Student Leaders Training Student Leaders 3875 2008 Ken Miller

The Northern California Conference Youth Department recently hosted its annual Freshman-Sophomore Retreat at Leoni Meadows, bringing together 375 students from our schools. The weekend offered more than just activities—it was designed to help students deepen their understanding of the truth found in biblical stories and develop new tools to apply that truth in their daily lives.

Guiding the retreat was a dedicated team of 58 juniors and seniors who had completed a two-day training with the youth ministry team. Eddie Heinrich, youth and young adult director, explained, “We guide these leaders on how to engage with the younger students from the very first day, creating a steady progression of intimacy and reflection. By Sunday, the goal is to have fostered real, meaningful connections.”

By the end of the weekend, students left equipped with not only a more in-depth understanding of the Bible but also strengthened skills and a renewed sense of purpose. Heinrich concluded, “Our hope is that they return to their schools ready to demonstrate what they’ve learned and model Christlike behavior with their classmates.”

Featured in Northern Lights, March 26, 2026

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Echoes of Hope: Our Faith, Our Story, Our Tomorrow
Echoes of Hope: Our Faith, Our Story, Our Tomorrow 3875 2008 Ken Miller

By Rudy Peters

In February, Pacific Union College hosted a powerful and uplifting Black History Day Celebration centered on the theme, “Echoes of Hope: Our Faith, Our Story, Our Tomorrow.”

Planned and presented by the African American Ministries Department of the Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, the convocation-style event was designed to affirm African American students and educate and inspire the broader campus community. From the opening moments, the atmosphere was one of reverence, pride, and unity as students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered to reflect on the enduring legacy and vibrant future of African Americans in America.

The highlight of the day was the worship convocation featuring guest speaker Dr. Myron Edmonds, a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, whose message called the audience to remember the resilience of those who came before and to embrace their responsibility to shape tomorrow with courage and faith. His sermon wove together biblical truth, historical reflection, and contemporary challenge, reminding attendees that hope is not passive—it is lived, embodied, and passed forward. The celebration was further elevated by a stirring musical presentation from Dynamic Praise of Oakwood University. Their harmonies filled the sanctuary with spiritual depth and cultural richness, drawing the congregation into heartfelt praise and reflection.

The gathering concluded with a renewed sense of community and shared commitment to honor the past, empower the present, and inspire the future. The event showed how intentional spaces that celebrate heritage, foster understanding, and strengthen faith across the campus community are important.

Featured in Northern Lights, March 26, 2026
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Pastors Meetings Seek to Engage and Teach
Pastors Meetings Seek to Engage and Teach 4000 2250 Ken Miller

In January, pastors came together at Gracepoint Church for their annual business meeting—a time set aside for learning, alignment, and connection.

The gathering provided policy updates, moments of inspiration, and dedicated Q&A sessions with leaders from various administrative departments. Some of the topics covered were practical and necessary, including employment matters, hiring, administrative processes, and even routine—but important—details like expense reimbursement.

The event also offered pastors a forum to share with administrators the everyday challenges they face, giving leaders better perspective on the realities of leading and pastoring in their communities.

Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, highlighted the value of these gatherings: “One developmental aspect we intentionally address, is adding to a pastor’s professional toolbox with new or improved skills. There is also the communicational part, where different initiatives can be discussed and clarity can be gained, and lastly, there is the camaraderie of colleagues who might not get to see each other very often.”

Interacting in a setting like this strives to build a stronger, more unified team, better equipped to spread the love of Jesus Christ and navigate the challenges and joys of ministry together.

Featured in Northern Lights, February 26, 2026
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