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

Northern Lights

Rain Can’t Dampen the Spirit at Rio Lindo’s Record-Breaking Sports Camp

Rain Can’t Dampen the Spirit at Rio Lindo’s Record-Breaking Sports Camp 4004 2250 Ken Miller

Even gray skies couldn’t dim the energy on Monday, September 29, as more than 190 students from 11 Northern California Conference schools converged on the campus of Rio Lindo Adventist Academy for its annual Sports Camp.

The event, which has averaged 142 participants over the past decade, celebrated its largest turnout in years—a sign of growing enthusiasm for this much-anticipated day of athletics and fellowship. The schools that sent their enthusiastic students included: Clearlake, Echo Ridge, Feather River, Hilltop, Middletown, Napa, Redding, Redwood, Tracy, Ukiah, and Westlake.

The morning began in Rio’s gymnasium, where students joined together for a spirited worship and orientation. Afterward, they were divided by grade and gender into groups led by Rio Ambassadors, student leaders who guided their squads throughout the day and offered encouragement at every station.

Participants rotated through a series of athletic challenges including basketball, volleyball, flag football, and soccer. Each session—facilitated by volunteer coaches and Rio staff—focused on skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship before wrapping up with scrimmages.

For many students, especially those from smaller schools, Sports Camp offered a unique opportunity to connect and grow alongside a wider community of peers. “It was so much fun to play with new people,” said Simon Sigler from Redwood Adventist Academy. “I got to learn a lot!”

By mid-afternoon, the clouds that had hovered all day finally opened up, drenching the fields in a sudden downpour. But rather than dampen spirits, the rain only added to the memories. Laughter echoed through the campus as students dashed for shelter, soaked but smiling.

The day concluded with an awards assembly recognizing outstanding sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork in each athletic session. As everyone departed and the rain continued to fall, students left Rio tired but happy—already talking about next year’s Sports Camp.

Faith, Fun, and Fellowship Shine at 2025 Pathfinder Camporee

Faith, Fun, and Fellowship Shine at 2025 Pathfinder Camporee 4000 2250 Ken Miller

From October 2–5, the Pathfinder Camporee brought over 600 Pathfinders together at Leoni Meadows Camp for a weekend of fellowship, spiritual connections, and outdoor adventure.

Each year, Pathfinders eagerly anticipate the Camporee—and this year was no exception. Rain showers greeted campers on Thursday as they set up, yet spirits remained high. By Friday, clouds lingered but gradually gave way to sunshine, and by Sabbath morning, the weather was beautiful.

The Camporee featured a wide range of highlights: the blacksmithing honor, supported by Pacific Union College and Adventist Health; the Sabbath morning Parade of Nations; a Saturday night social for the Leaders in Training (LITs); four baptisms; and an inspiring talk by Tobin Dodge on ministry in the Arctic Circle—along with many other memorable moments.

This year’s theme, “All In” encouraged Pathfinders to put faith into action through service, worship, and community engagement. Attendees participated in worship services, honor classes, and community projects, all while building friendships and growing in character alongside their peers.

For Pathfinder clubs, families, and church leaders alike, the 2025 edition was an unforgettable experience—a time where faith, fun, and fellowship came together in the stunning setting of Leoni Meadows.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025
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Young Adults Finding Faith—and Each Other

Young Adults Finding Faith—and Each Other 4004 2250 Ken Miller

Across Northern California, young adults are discovering that faith grows best in shared life—around campfires, on trails, and beneath the stars.

One ministry has seen significant growth since a few pastors and church leaders started engaging young adults in meaningful ways within their churches and social circles. What began with Sabbath School, vespers, and a ten-person camping trip started by Joseph Cartwright from the Auburn church—has grown into a community led by young adults with a heart for creating spaces of worship, conversation, and friendship.

Camping retreats have become a highlight of the ministry. A trip to Big Sur and Tahoe last year saw baptisms as part of the weekends. This year, the Lake Tahoe retreat drew more than 100 campers, marking the largest gathering yet. RJ Gamboa, GC Director of Sidewalk Evangelism, and his wife, Charinette, joined the group to speak on living fully surrendered to Jesus under the theme “Above the Noise.”

Connection is what fuels this ministry. Friends invite friends. Coworkers bring coworkers. People come from different churches—and even beyond the Adventist community—to hike, paddleboard, share meals, and talk late into the night. Faith becomes something lived, not just discussed.

Looking ahead, the Young Adult Retreat at Leoni Meadows, December 5–7, is the official event sponsored by the NCC Young Adult Ministries Department. “We are very excited about this event because last year was such an amazing experience,” said Eddie Heinrich, director. “This year’s focus is on building relationships and getting closer to Jesus. With speakers Taj Pacleb, K’Dee Crews, Marlene Rodriguez, and Marc Woodson, it promises to be a meaningful weekend for everyone attending.”

Sometimes, finding faith begins with simply finding each other—and this growing community keeps taking that step.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025
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Because of You: A Thanksgiving Letter to Our Faithful Supporters

Because of You: A Thanksgiving Letter to Our Faithful Supporters 4000 2250 Ken Miller

By Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication and Development

This Thanksgiving, we pause with full hearts to say two simple words that carry eternal weight: thank you. Because of your generosity, prayers, and steady encouragement, the mission of the Northern California Conference continues to move—quietly in living rooms and boldly in sanctuaries, in classrooms and dorms, at food pantries and baptisteries, along hospital corridors and at summer camps where young people say “yes” to Jesus.

Your gifts do more than fund programs; they open doors. In our churches, seekers find welcome and members find hope. Bible studies flourish, new believers step into the waters of baptism, and congregations discover fresh ways to serve their neighborhoods. In our schools, students learn in Christ-centered classrooms where teachers pray, mentor, and inspire—where worship, service, and scholarship are woven together. Across our ministries, compassion becomes tangible: meals shared, burdens lifted, stories told, and faith renewed.

Scripture reminds us, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1). We see that enduring love reflected in you. Some of you give quietly each month. Others offer time, expertise, or special gifts that launch new efforts. Many of you intercede for pastors, educators, students, and volunteers by name. However you give, you are part of a living testimony that gratitude is not just a feeling—it’s a way of life.

We also know this year has asked for perseverance. Families have navigated uncertainty, churches have carried heavy needs, and leaders have made hard decisions. Yet in every challenge, your faith has shone like a steady light. You have reminded us that mission advances best when God’s people move together—each one bringing a gift, a prayer, a word of encouragement. As Paul wrote, “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion… and your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

So today we give thanks for you—for your trust, your partnership, and your sacrificial love. Because of you, children hear the name of Jesus spoken with joy. Because of you, students discover purpose. Because of you, neighbors are served and congregations are strengthened. Most of all, because of you, the gospel continues to go forth with hope.

May your table be filled with peace, your home with gratitude, and your heart with the nearness of Christ. From our Conference family to yours—Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for being part of this beautiful story God is writing among us.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025

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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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Pentecost 2025: Lives Transformed in Our Territory

Pentecost 2025: Lives Transformed in Our Territory 150 150 Ken Miller

During Pentecost 2025, God’s Spirit moved powerfully across the Northern California Conference.

This North American Division initiative invited Adventists to hold thousands of proclamation events focused on prayer, community engagement, and discipleship. In our territory, members brought this vision to life through Bible studies, evangelistic meetings, and baptisms, marking a season of transformation and hope.

“Thirteen precious souls publicly declared their commitment to follow Jesus. Each baptism told a story of surrender, renewal, and faith, strengthening fellowship and inspiring unity,” reported Jaime Calvo, district pastor of the North Highlands, Sacramento Spanish and Woodland Spanish churches, “And other district leaders helped coordinate prayerful outreach, Bible studies, and mentorship that touched lives and transformed hearts.”

Douglas Barahona, associate pastor of the Chico Church, shared, “In our bi-weekly Collegiate Bible Studies, the Holy Spirit and the book of Acts were central. This led to six baptisms among High School, Collegiate, and Young Adult students. Several students from Adventist and non-Adventist families plugged into the church and began serving as deacons or audio/video volunteers.”

Jaziel Huerta, assistant pastor of Sacramento Spanish, reflected, “We prayed consistently for ten people, and we watched God respond. Many who had been absent or had never attended returned, reintegrated into church life, and grew spiritually.”

Octavian Poenaru, district pastor of the Clearlake and Middletown churches, told the story of Steve and Sandra, who came hesitantly but quickly became active. “The week before their baptism, they took over landscaping to beautify our church and asked, ‘What else can we do for the Lord?’” Their service reminded everyone of the beauty of a “first love” for God.

Leoni Meadows retreat (May 30 – June 1, 2025) provided a sacred setting for two baptisms, while Mayfair Church, North Bay Korean Company, and Sacramento Central SDA Church celebrated transformed lives.

Pentecost 2025 reminded everyone that every baptism marks both an ending and a beginning: the old life ends, and a new life in Christ begins. Heaven rejoiced over each soul that chose Christ—and so did we.

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

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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