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

Northern Lights

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

Sophie’s First Day: Walking in Her Father’s Legacy
Sophie’s First Day: Walking in Her Father’s Legacy 3881 2056 Ken Miller

When Deputy Adam Gibson gave his life in January 2021, his daughter Sophie was still too young to understand the meaning of sacrifice. She only knew the love of her daddy—a Marine, a K9 handler, and a man of courage and faith.

In August, Sophie stepped into a milestone her father never had the chance to see: her first day of kindergarten at Lodi Adventist Elementary. But she didn’t walk in alone. Deputies from the Sheriff’s K9 unit, her father’s brothers in service, came alongside her. They cheered, smiled, and showed her that she will always belong to a larger family. Even K9 Niko wagged his way into the moment, a living reminder of the bond Adam shared with his dogs.

Her kindergarten teacher, Lyly Nguyen, reflected on the day: “It was so touching and emotional to see how many police officers showed up in support of Sophie on her first day of kindergarten. Especially the K-9 dog who came to greet her, it truly honored her late father, Adam.”

Above the schoolyard, a helicopter flyover briefly filled the sky—a fleeting sight, difficult to capture in photos, but profoundly moving. For Sophie, it was more than the start of school; it was the visible embrace of her community, a promise that her father’s bravery would never be forgotten and that she would always be surrounded by love.

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

From the Fireline to the Frontlines of Faith: Lloyd Ogan Leads Sierra Chaplaincy With Heart and Mission
From the Fireline to the Frontlines of Faith: Lloyd Ogan Leads Sierra Chaplaincy With Heart and Mission 3990 2117 Ken Miller

On August 14, at a change of command ceremony, the Sierra Chaplaincy program welcomed Lloyd Ogan as interim executive director and senior chaplain. A longtime member of the Camino church and board chair at El Dorado Adventist School, Ogan now steps into a role that blends his extensive operational leadership with a pastoral heart shaped by decades of service.

Ogan stands among a rare few Adventists to hold such high-level positions in public service—a distinction shared with leaders like Rear Admiral (ret.) Barry C. Black, former U.S. Navy chief of chaplains and current U.S. Senate chaplain (since 2003), and Desmond T. Doss, the WWII medic and Medal of Honor recipient who saved lives without carrying a weapon.

Sierra Chaplaincy, a faith-based nonprofit with a secular mission, supports El Dorado County’s first responders and community members during their most difficult moments—providing presence, prayer, crisis intervention, and emotional support. Whether responding alongside law enforcement, comforting grieving families, or uplifting firefighters after a tough call, chaplains serve as a crucial link between those who protect the community and the community itself.

A 36-year veteran of the fire service, Ogan dedicated 33 years to the Sacramento Fire Department, rising through every rank to become deputy fire chief of operations and later acting fire chief. He has also led as interim fire chief for the El Dorado County Fire Protection District and interim division chief of operations for the Turlock Fire Department. Alongside his leadership in emergency services, he has served for more than 20 years as a hospital and fire chaplain and holds a ministerial license with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

“Through every act of service, Sierra Chaplaincy is living the gospel in real time,” said Jim Lorenz, vice president for ministry at the Northern California Conference. “It’s about more than responding to emergencies—it’s about building trust, meeting unique needs, and connecting people to the abundant life Jesus offers.”

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

Update on Rio Lindo Adventist Academy’s Care and Recovery
Update on Rio Lindo Adventist Academy’s Care and Recovery 1639 2048 Ken Miller

On Thursday, August 28, a student tragically passed away during an all-school activity. As a close-knit boarding community, Rio Lindo Adventist Academy canceled classes and activities through the weekend. After consulting with counselors, school administrators decided to resume classes and activities today, Tuesday, September 2, to restore routine and provide structured support.

Beginning Thursday evening and continuing through the weekend, mental health professionals provided support to students and staff. Adventist Health Ukiah and the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office sent chaplains. Area pastors came to campus and joined students and staff in prayer and worship. A chaplain noted this was especially effective because a strong support network already existed on campus.

On Sabbath, four Paws As Loving Support (PALS) “Comfort Teams” (therapy dogs and handlers) offered what they called “soft paws and gentle support.”
On Monday, September 1, the Sonoma County School Crisis Response System of Support team collaborated with Rio educators and staff to deliver Trauma-Informed Teaching sessions, providing talking points for classroom conversations, and connecting staff with county resources—support that will benefit the school for years to come.

Lauren Heinrich, Northern California Conference (NCC) School Mental Health Clinician, and Albert Miller, Vice President for Education, are coordinating ongoing counseling for those who request it. “Our purpose right now is to support our students and staff the best way we can,” Miller said. “On behalf of the Rio community, thank you for your prayers and the many offers of help.”

As one parent observed, Rio is the best place for their child right now because of the campus’s community of care. Experts agree that healing from trauma occurs in the community, not in isolation. Rio is focused on restoring relationships, strengthening community, and walking together toward recovery. We appreciate your continued prayers.

Media inquiries: NCC Communications Office — laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com | (916) 886-5642.

#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

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
#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

Sacramento Adventist Academy Students Serve in Paraguay
Sacramento Adventist Academy Students Serve in Paraguay 4000 2250 Ken Miller

From July 24 to August 4, students from Sacramento Adventist Academy (SAA) joined 122 volunteers from around the world in Paraguay.

The trip was with Ultimate Workout 35, an immersive, teens-only mission trip organized by Maranatha Volunteers International. This opportunity allowed young people to serve with purpose, deepen their faith, and witness God’s work through acts of service.

At project sites with names like Campo 9, Kilometer 8, and Kilometer 40 in Paraguay, SAA’s group worked alongside other volunteers, carrying tools, water bottles, and sunscreen before dividing into teams. By mid-morning, one group was hauling bricks under the rising sun, another was assisting with blood pressure checks at a small clinic, and a third was teaching local children’s songs in Spanish, sharing laughter across languages and cultures.

After long, hot, humid days, evenings often brought moments of reflection and fellowship. Students shared stories over dinner—about the day’s accomplishments, unexpected challenges, and the generosity and kindness they encountered. Hannah Emmanuel, 17, reflected, “It gave me the opportunity to build new relationships, forming friendships while deepening my understanding and faith in Jesus—not only through worship, but also by helping others.”

<em>Featured in Northern Lights, August 21, 2025</em>

#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

From Ashes to Amen: Paradise Dedicates New Church, Marks a New Chapter in Community Rebuilding
From Ashes to Amen: Paradise Dedicates New Church, Marks a New Chapter in Community Rebuilding 1526 762 Ken Miller

PARADISE, Calif. — On August 9, nearly 600 people filled the new sanctuary of the Paradise Seventh-day Adventist Church, celebrating a milestone five years in the making. The Dedication Weekend was more than a ribbon-cutting — it was a homecoming, a testament of faith, and a visible sign that Paradise continues to rise from the ashes of the 2018 Camp Fire.

When the wildfire consumed the church campus, part of the school, and thousands of homes, members didn’t retreat — they mobilized. They expanded their freshwater well to serve anyone in need, distributed home starter kits, built storage sheds for displaced families, and launched Love Gives, a ministry providing furniture and household goods to returning residents. During the pandemic, they delivered groceries and essentials to homebound neighbors, living out a ministry of presence even without a permanent building.

Worship never stopped. First under the open sky and later in the academy gymnasium, volunteers transformed the space week after week. In May 2023, hope took physical form as ground was broken for a new sanctuary. Two years later, the congregation stepped inside a building crafted not only from timber and stone but from shared perseverance.

During the dedication service, Northern California Conference President Marc Woodson prayed over the new facility, Associate Pastor Isaac Kim lifted a prayer for the people, and Senior Pastor Zach Reiber reflected on God’s sustaining love through seasons of trial and triumph.
The recovery extends far beyond church walls. Paradise Adventist Academy, reopened in 2021 and now educates a generation shaped by resilience. The town itself, once reduced to rubble, is slowly returning — its population now over 9,000, its streets lined with both new construction and the lingering scars of loss.

“As Hebrews 10:23–24 reminds us, ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess… and let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,’” Woodson said. “Through the ashes of tragedy, the members of Paradise have shown what it means to live on mission—creating ministries that meet unique community needs, lifting spirits with kindness, and opening hearts to the transforming power of Jesus. Their steadfast love has helped neighbors rebuild and prepared hearts for the joy of His soon return.”

As Paradise continues to rebuild, its Adventist congregation remains at the heart of the healing — a place where faith fuels service, neighbors become family, and the story of restoration is still being written.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 21, 2025
#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

Melvyn (Que) Hayden Installed at Capitol City Church
Melvyn (Que) Hayden Installed at Capitol City Church 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On July 12, Melvyn (Que) Hayden IV was installed as the youth pastor of Capitol City Church.

Already in the process of hiring, Hayden joins the NCC from the Greater New York Conference. Hayden brings a deep passion for young people and a heart committed to guiding them through life’s challenges with faith, wisdom, and compassion.

Rudy Peters, African American Ministries Coordinator, shared, “Pastor Hayden is already making meaningful connections with the youth and families of Capitol City. We celebrate this new beginning and look forward to the impact Pastor Hayden will have in the lives of our young people.”

Pastor Hayden is married to Deoline, his college sweetheart, and together they are excited about this new chapter of ministry. He shared, “I am excited to walk alongside our young people and build something meaningful together. My mission is simple: to connect with hearts, create growth opportunities, and collaborate with others to reach our communities with the Gospel.”

Featured in Northern Lights, August 21, 2025

#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

Preston Willis Installed at Elmhurst Church
Preston Willis Installed at Elmhurst Church 466 331 Ken Miller

On June 5, James Preston Willis III was installed as senior pastor of the Elmhurst Church.

He is freshly back to the NCC from Andrews University, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. Willis served for three years as the associate pastor of Oakland Market Street Church. His addition to Elmhurst is an answer to the prayers of the administration and congregation alike.

Willis shared, “I am thankful to be back in pastoral ministry!  Seminary was cold but I am being thawed out by the warmth I have found in the Elmhurst Church.  The people are a very friendly and welcoming group, and I look forward to how God will use the warmth of this church to be a light in the surrounding community.”

Rudy Peters, African American Ministry Coordinator, shared, “I believe that Pastor Willis and his wife Jocelyn are uniquely gifted to come alongside the Elmhurst church to nurture, encourage, challenge, and inspire them to be the beacon of hope God has called them to be.”

Featured in Northern Lights, August 21, 2025
#nccsda

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

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.

  • Ken Miller
  • No Comments

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
#nccsda

Enter your
text here