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Many Nations, One Voice: Fiji International Choir
Many Nations, One Voice: Fiji International Choir 1900 1267 Ken Miller

Reprinted from nadadventist.org

Three years ago, Josiah Hughes, a member of Capitol City Seventh-day Adventist Church — Fiji Campus, in Sacramento, California, had a bold vision: to gather Fijian Adventists from around the world to sing at the GC Session.

“Most applied for the visa but were rejected,” said Epeli Saukuru, general secretary of the Fiji Mission, who joined the choir; notably, he wrote more than 400 visa letters. Others cancelled for financial reasons, leaving the U.S.-based churches bracing to sing alone.

Amazingly, 85 voices came together from the U.S., Australia, England, New Zealand, American Samoa, and the Philippines. “When we all met here, Joe was overjoyed,” said Saukuru. “It wasn’t easy to put everything together. We can only praise God.”

The group included six pastors, as well as Marc Woodson, the Northern California Conference president, who learned the lyrics phonetically. Although they learned the songs via Messenger and rehearsed just twice, their rich harmonies and smiles gave no hint of obstacles. “Singing is natural for us,” said Saukuru. “We love singing.”

“We felt like we were singing with the angels. Even Joe said he felt the angels were singing with us while conducting,” he reflected. Their message shone through, even in a different language: “Despite the many challenges we go through, God’s great love can still protect us. And we can still proclaim hope for the second coming.”

Saukuru added that in the South Pacific, they can feel isolated, but at the session, they realized “We’re not small. We’re part of a bigger global church family. And that has been a blessing.”

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Dexter Thomas Ordained at Fairfield
Dexter Thomas Ordained at Fairfield 4014 2477 Ken Miller

Dexter Thomas was ordained on October 4, at Fairfield Community Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he serves as senior pastor.

Before coming to Fairfield, Thomas served as auxiliary evangelist for the NCC with Grand Advent Church (2006–2010). Though legally blind, he has combined leadership with creativity, founding PhoneFaith, a spiritual care ministry for the blind that continues to serve hundreds nationwide. He also led seminars on personal evangelism, disability ministry, and leadership development, equipping congregations and communities for practical outreach.

At Fairfield, Thomas ministers to a congregation representing over 30 nationalities, nurturing community and fostering growth. He earned his Doctor of Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary, where his dissertation focused on social justice in preaching and teaching, and has contributed to church leadership through evangelism, disability ministry, and community programs.

“Dr. Thomas’ story reminds me that God knew us before we knew ourselves, that God formed us through our trials, and that God now sends us on His mission,” said Rudy Peters, African American Ministry coordinator.

Thomas shares his life with Elizabeth and their daughter Tahliza.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025
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A Journey of Faith, Walking Together in God’s Word
A Journey of Faith, Walking Together in God’s Word 3764 1963 Ken Miller

Bible study has a quiet, remarkable power. It opens hearts, brings clarity in confusing moments, and creates a place where people can connect, share struggles, and grow in faith. It’s not just about learning Scripture—it’s about walking alongside someone, offering encouragement, and seeing lives change in real, tangible ways.

Deena’s journey shows just how life-changing that process can be. Born to a prayerful mother and inspired by her grandmother, a lifelong member of the Anderson Church, she grew up surrounded by faith. Yet life’s challenges tested her deeply. The loss of a beloved daughter left her grieving and searching for hope. Feeling the pull back to God, she reached out to the church community, unsure where her journey would take her.

“She was one of six individuals who reached out to our church for Bible study,” says Rio Mabugay, a Bible Worker serving Anderson and Shasta Lake Churches. “From there, we started a study that took four months.” Over that time, Deena immersed herself in Scripture, asked questions, and shared her heart. The Bible study became more than lessons—it became a place of healing, support, and growing friendship. Slowly, hope returned, faith deepened, and her heart found peace and led to her baptism.

Deena’s story is a reminder that leading a Bible study isn’t just teaching—it’s walking with someone through life, helping them find God’s hope, and guiding them toward the abundant life Jesus promises. Every study is an opportunity to plant seeds of faith, nurture hearts, and participate in God’s work in a meaningful, lasting way.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025
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Faith, Grit, and Wagon Wheels: Paradise Adventist Students Take to the Trail
Faith, Grit, and Wagon Wheels: Paradise Adventist Students Take to the Trail 1920 1026 Ken Miller

By Julie Ching

September 21-26, 2025, the 7th and 8th grade students of Paradise Adventist Elementary set out on their annual experiential learning adventure—affectionately known as the “Wagon Trip.” This unforgettable journey took them through picturesque landscapes near Wells and Elko, Nevada, retracing the historic paths once traveled by early pioneers, including the infamous Donner Party.

Led by their teacher and principal, Mr. David Vixie, 22 students spent six days walking alongside mules and horses that hauled their supplies in authentic covered wagons. Together, they covered approximately 62 miles, navigating historic routes such as the Hastings Cutoff, Overland Pass, Pony Express Trail, and Ruby Mountain Valley.

This past trip marks Mr. Vixie’s 30th Wagon Trip adventure.  Under his leadership, the Wagon Trip is far more than a history lesson of pioneer life.  Along the trail, students engage in hands-on learning across multiple disciplines—history, science, math, and religion—making the journey a dynamic outdoor classroom. The Wagon Trip is more than just real-life academics; it’s a powerful lesson in perseverance, physical endurance, and teamwork.  Students are challenged physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as they confront ‘struggles’ that echo those of the early pioneers.

Mr. Vixie initiated the Wagon Trip tradition in 1996 to create a safe, natural environment where teenagers could confront real challenges and make meaningful decisions alongside their peers. Recognizing that the adolescent brain craves risk and novelty, he designed an experiential learning journey that would channel those impulses in a constructive, historically grounded way. Through the lens of the pioneer life, with its physical demands and daily hardships, students gain powerful insights into time management, resourcefulness, and the more profound life lessons that come from overcoming adversity.  Students walk mile after mile, share responsibilities, and encourage one another through fatigue.  At the same time, quiet moments such as watching the sun rise over the Ruby Mountains or pausing in the silence of the desert, remind them of God’s presence and protection on the journey.

For many, the Wagon Trip becomes the most memorable part of their school years. Both past and present students often describe it as a life-changing experience. Parents who accompany the group frequently return home with a renewed sense of gratitude and a deeper appreciation for life’s journey.  The Wagon Trip is more than a school tradition; it’s a rite of passage that leaves a lasting impact on all who participate.

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Originally Posted in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025

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A Day to Remember: Small Schools Come Together for Fun and Faith
A Day to Remember: Small Schools Come Together for Fun and Faith 3876 2063 Ken Miller

The sun was already warming the air in Yuba City when students began arriving for the Northern California Conference’s “Come Have Fun Day.” Vans and buses pulled in from seven different schools—Red Bluff, Middletown, Feather River, Clearlake, Echo Ridge, Westlake, and Galt—bringing with them 167 kids and sponsors, all ready for a day unlike any other.

The celebration began with worship, led by students from Rio Lindo Academy. Their music and testimonies reminded everyone why they had gathered: to lift up the name of Jesus and to remember that, while each school may be small, together they are part of something much bigger—the Northern California Conference family.

Then came the fun. Laughter filled the air as kids raced on go-karts, splashed down the giant water slide, climbed walls, blew bubbles, and met some animals up close. The water slide and climbing wall were made possible thanks to Eddie Heinrich and the NCC Youth Department, while Leoni Meadows contributed the animals and helped with part of the lunch. Their efforts helped make the day memorable for everyone.

Lunch was simple but satisfying—pizza and salad enjoyed under the shade as friends, old and new, shared stories and smiles. Even with the warm weather, the splash from the slide and the breeze from the go-karts kept spirits high. One sponsor summed it up: “The kids were having the time of their lives—and they left knowing they’re part of something really special.”

“Come Have Fun Day” wasn’t just about activities—it was about connection. It reminded these students that their faith, friendships, and future are tied into something bigger than any one school. Together, they’re part of a vibrant, ongoing ministry across Northern California.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025
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Aron Crews Ordained
Aron Crews Ordained 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On September 20, Aron Crews was ordained at Granite Bay Church, where he has served as a youth pastor since 2022.

From his high school years, when a Bible teacher first inspired and mentored him, to his college experience that deepened his love for Scripture, Crews has been steadily drawn to a life of ministry. The influence of dedicated mentors and his personal study of the Bible and the writings of Ellen G. White shaped a passion for God’s Word that he eagerly shares with others. His formal training was completed with a Master of Divinity degree, equipping him for a lifetime of service to the church.

Reflecting on his journey, Crews says with confidence that God has indeed been “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us” (Ephesians 3:20).

Crews shares his life with wife, Dr. K’dee Crews, a licensed clinical psychologist whose work and speaking ministry also touch lives for Christ.

<em>Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025</em>

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Andrew Huh Installed at Vacaville and Woodland Churches
Andrew Huh Installed at Vacaville and Woodland Churches 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Pastor Andrew Huh was installed as the new district pastor for the Vacaville and Woodland churches.

Huh previously served the Contra Costa Korean Church for the past eight years. His official installation services were held at the Vacaville church on September 6  and at the Woodland church on September 13.

Pastor Huh grew up in the Adventist school system in Korea and later earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. He shares that his mother prayed fervently for him to become a pastor, and he is grateful to see those prayers answered. One of his favorite Bible texts is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

He shared, “My heart is filled with thankfulness and gratitude. By His grace and power, we can become genuine praying churches, so that He may pour out His abundant blessings upon us. The longer I serve as a pastor, the more deeply I am convinced that prayer is the key to evangelism.”

Pastor Huh and his wife are honored to serve as a pastoral family in their new district. They have two sons, ages 23 and 21, both currently studying at Loma Linda University. Huh concluded, “We pray that one day they will collaborate closely with gospel workers like myself as medical professionals.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025
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Elias Esquivel is the new Leoni Meadows Camp Director.
Elias Esquivel is the new Leoni Meadows Camp Director. 3583 1833 Ken Miller

The Northern California Conference (NCC) is delighted to welcome Elias Esquivel as Leoni Meadows Camp Director. He will start in October.

For Esquivel, camp ministry has been more than a career—it has been a lifelong passion and calling. His journey began in 1999, when, as a 14-year-old, he worked in the dish room at Pine Lake Retreat in the Florida Conference. “Camp ministry is my passion,” Elias reflects, “because it changes lives, and it changed mine.” He would go on to spend ten years at Camp Kulaqua in Florida, serving as the Operations Manager before moving back to Pine Lake as the Camp Manager. Eventually, his path led him north to the Ohio Conference, where he spent five summers at Camp Mohaven, four of those years as Camp Manager.

Elias combines a passion for ministry with practical skills. Growing up on a farm, he learned responsibility early, driving tractors at age five and fixing what needed repair. He later studied structural engineering and earned a business degree, giving him what he calls “a well-rounded grasp of plant operations and systems.”

Camp has shaped Elias’ life in many ways—including personally. During a Bible workers’ program at camp, he met his wife, Lizandra. For twenty years, they have built their life around faith, ministry, and service, and today they’re raising two children, Elijah (14) and Lilah Ruth (11).

At the heart of Elias’ vision for Leoni Meadows is a promise from Scripture that has guided him throughout his life:” ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV).

“Throughout my life I’ve tried to seek God’s will, and it doesn’t always line up with my own,” Elias reflects. “But I know God’s plan is better than mine, and He declares that He will prosper us and not harm us. I always defer to Him, knowing His plan is the best.”

Stepping into leadership at Leoni Meadows, Elias’ priority is people and mission. “My goal is to listen and learn the operation well, then chart a plan forward,” he says. “We’ll keep strengthening programs, investing in safety and excellence, and serving kids and families. None of this happens without our dedicated staff—I want them to know how essential they are to the camp’s success.”

With broad experience, practical skill, and deep spiritual conviction, Elias is ready to lead Leoni Meadows into its next chapter—in this place, children, families, and staff encounter Jesus in transformative ways. Please join us in welcoming Elias Esquivel and his family. We’re excited for what God will do next at Leoni Meadows—where unforgettable experiences, Christ-centered community, and life-changing moments continue to flourish.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025
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Jeffrey Maxwell Promoted to NCC Undertreasurer
Jeffrey Maxwell Promoted to NCC Undertreasurer 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Jeffrey Maxwell has been promoted to Undertreasurer of the Northern California Conference (NCC).

Maxwell has served the NCC for over a decade, bringing extensive experience in finance and risk management. From March 2017, he served as Associate Treasurer and Risk Management Director, overseeing financial operations and implementing risk mitigation strategies for the conference. Prior to that, from June 2014 to March 2017, he worked as an Accountant for Trust and Property Management/Treasury, managing financial records and conference assets.

Jaymes Cheney, Treasurer, stated, “I have appreciated Jeffrey, who has been a tremendous help to me, enabling me to get my feet under me more quickly than I would have otherwise in my new role. I look forward to continuing to work closely together and watching him grow in this new role.”

Maxwell’s dedication, expertise, and kind, supportive spirit have made a lasting impact on the Treasury team, the broader conference, and the community. We celebrate his promotion and look forward to the continued contributions he will bring in his new role.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025

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Your Life Story Matters
Your Life Story Matters 824 506 Ken Miller

The Willits Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted a special evangelistic series, “Your Life Story Matters.” Each night was filled with prayer, inspiring messages, and opportunities to share God’s love with the community.

Chaplain Erwin Pajares delivered powerful sermons that touched hearts, while Jeb J. Bersabal led Bible studies, helping attendees grow in God’s Word and take steps toward a personal relationship with Christ.

The series was a true team effort. Members welcomed guests, assisted with seating, and lifted their voices in worship, creating an atmosphere of care and unity. By God’s grace, five precious souls chose to follow Christ through baptism. The week was a joyful reminder that every life story matters to God—and when His people come together in love, lives are transformed.

<em>Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025</em>

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