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Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement
Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On April 7, over 200 educators and 130 pastors gathered at Gracepoint Church for the annual Mark Blue Lecture Series.

This year’s theme advanced the NCC’s commitment to organizational health by concentrating on active engagement between employees, church members, and students. Keynote speaker Berit Von Pohle, Pacific Union Vice-President of Education, highlighted the value of positive leadership and offered many practical tools to help education and ministry professionals strengthen engagement.

Another spotlight during the event was an employee satisfaction survey by the Gallup organization. This online survey was emailed to all employees and completed on phones and laptops during a short break. This professionally designed and interpreted questionnaire will serve to measure NCC employee satisfaction, engagement, and other key categories.

Also highlighted was the need for collaboration between schools and churches to inspire future leaders. Presenters and audience discussed ways to engage young people in learning and service, creating a seamless connection between educational and spiritual development. With these strategies, schools and churches can build stronger, more unified teams, ultimately leading students and members to a more significant impact in their communities.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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Janeen Little Installed at Tracy Church
Janeen Little Installed at Tracy Church 3767 2009 Ken Miller

April 5, Janeen Little was warmly welcomed and officially installed as the new pastor of the Tracy Church.

Born and raised in South Africa, Janeen moved to the United States with her family as a child, and from an early age, she felt a deep calling to pastoral ministry—one that would shape her life and career.

Equipped with a Master of Divinity and a teaching credential, Janeen began her NCC ministry as a chaplain and Bible teacher at Lodi Academy, where she spent nine years mentoring and guiding students. Her passion for relational ministry led her to serve as associate pastor at the Lodi Fairmont Church, a role she held for the past three years.

Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, stated, “Janeen brings a wealth of experience to her new assignment, and while this will be her first time stepping into the lead pastor role, she embraces the challenge with enthusiasm. We are excited about this new phase in her ministry.”

“I’m excited to join the Tracy Church, which has demonstrated that they show up for each other,” Little shared, “I value doing life with people who value relationships.”

Janeen shares her life with her husband, Matt, and their three children: Emma, Daniel, and Amy.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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Did You Know? Children and Family Ministries Department
Did You Know? Children and Family Ministries Department 3867 2041 Ken Miller

Under the direction of Barry van Iderstein, the NCC Children and Family Ministries Department equips and supports local church leaders to guide children and families to Jesus and prepare them for His soon return.

The department has been instrumental in strengthening child safety protocols in our entities. It supports children’s Sabbath Schools, Adventurer Clubs, Children’s Church, and VBS programs by providing training and resources. It also sponsors events like the Adventurer Bike Derby and Family Fun Weekends.

Serving children and families, the department addresses spiritual needs through tailored programs. Over 800 children in Adventurer Clubs and nearly a thousand SDA and non-SDA children are impacted by VBS. This department’s initiatives and programs foster safe, faith-filled environments for young believers.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Eddie Heinrich directs the NCC’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries Department, which is devoted to guiding young people into a deeper relationship with Jesus and helping them grow in faith, purpose, and service.

Youth Ministries include retreats, camps, and gatherings offer spaces where young hearts are strengthened, friendships are formed, and faith takes root. Summer on the Run brings joy and spiritual connection to children, many of whom encounter the love of Christ for the first time. Programs like Team Bible Academy invite youth to explore Scripture and grow together in understanding and trust.

Young adults are stepping into leadership through evangelistic efforts and community outreach, discovering what serving with compassion and courage means. Retreats help them build healthy, Christ-centered relationships and deepen their walk with God.

Pathfinders continue to grow through hands-on service, leadership training, and events that foster teamwork and commitment. These experiences prepare them not just for ministry but for life.

The department walks alongside local churches, supporting pastors and leaders with training, resources, and encouragement. Campus ministries, urban outreach, and cultural partnerships extend the church’s mission beyond its walls.

Each life touched—whether through a campfire prayer, a mission trip, or a food fair—reflects the heart of this ministry. Continued support means these efforts will continue to plant seeds of faith, raise leaders, and build a future full of hope and purpose.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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A Night to Remember: The First Annual NCC Advantage Awards
A Night to Remember: The First Annual NCC Advantage Awards 3812 2785 Ken Miller

The evening of April 7 was a truly memorable occasion—the launch of the first annual NCC Advantage Awards program. This special event was created to further the concepts of organizational health by honoring outstanding educators and pastors across the Northern California Conference who live out the values that define our mission.

These values—Contagious Kindness, a Servant’s Heart, Passionate Hard Work, Engaged and Enthusiastic Leadership, Community Relevance, Mission-Driven Dedication, and Organizational Health—aren’t just ideals; they’re the everyday actions of those who serve with purpose and heart.

This evening was especially meaningful because each nominee was chosen by their peers through an anonymous ballot process—a testament to the respect and admiration they inspire within their communities.

Award winners were chosen from the nominees for each category and recognized with a beautifully crafted crystal award, symbolizing their achievement and unwavering commitment to service. Many shared moving words of gratitude, offering glimpses into the passion behind their work and the deep appreciation they hold for their students, church members, colleagues, and calling.

The Advantage Awards remind us that excellence is a powerful force when paired with humility and mission. Celebrating these faithful educators and pastors inspires us to continue building organizational health rooted in grace, leadership, and wholehearted dedication to God’s work.

Award Winners, Left to Right: Sasa Andelkovic, Walt Groff, Tim McMillen, Rick Nelson, Brad Geinger, Gina Wilmott, Steve Brownell, Lisa Bohman, Cyndi Westenrider, Bob Mason, Linda Lamb, Wendy Henry, Douglas Barahona, Jaime Calvo

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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Serving Side by Side in Kimogoro, Kenya
Serving Side by Side in Kimogoro, Kenya 4000 2250 Ken Miller

During spring break, 56 children, youth, and adults from the NCC traveled to Kimogoro, Kenya, to serve, connect, and learn alongside the students and families of the rural Adventist boarding school.

Kimogoro is located in the lush, tea-covered hills of central Kenya. The school is home to 384 students from kindergarten through the ninth grade. Most students live on campus during the school term, while their families live in nearby villages.

Access to basic supplies and services is limited; even simple tasks and supplies can require hours of travel by foot or motorcycle. “One of the gifts donated by the group was a computer and printer,” said Eddie Heinrich,NCC Youth Director. “This common tool that we take for granted daily will allow the principal and teachers to print tests and other important documents, a task that would require hours of travel to get copies from town.”

In addition to delivering school and clothing supplies, the team worked alongside local builders to complete two new classrooms. Another group led Vacation Bible School, where children worshipped, played games, and made crafts. In the same spirit of care, eye exams were given, and 500 pairs of eyeglasses were distributed to students and village members—restoring clear vision for many.

One of the most moving moments came during the distribution of food items.

“We were able to purchase hundreds of eggs in town and give them to the school,” Heinrich recalled. “This simple food item is a rare delicacy for the school to supply. Most daily meals consist of millet and other simple items. When the eggs were handed out, a small girl approached me. She held out her hand with her one egg and asked if I would like to eat it. At that moment, I witnessed the widow’s mite—and heard Jesus’ words, ‘…She has given more than anyone else…’”

The experience left a lasting impact on both the Kimogoro community and the NCC team. While the group came to serve, they also received. Janeen Little, pastor of the Tracy Church, shared, “It was incredible to see our kids meet Jesus and commit to Him. In the midst of many challenges during the trip, they were resilient and insistent on having fun! God is still on the move, and this generation is following Him to the promised land!”

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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Did You Know? NCC Education Department
Did You Know? NCC Education Department 4000 2258 Ken Miller

According to Albert Miller, NCC Education Superintendent, “Our department exists to serve the schools of the NCC by championing quality education rooted in faith. We walk alongside educators, leaders, and communities, offering the tools, training, and guidance to create safe, Christ-centered learning environments where students can grow academically and spiritually.”

Teachers are recruited for, and equipped with, ideals that match NAD standards. Over 200 teacher contracts are processed with care and compliance, and nearly 600 scholarships are awarded.

We attend monthly board meetings across 32 schools, offer strategic enrollment support, and maintain two student management systems with ongoing training. Our centralized job posting system and contract processes reflect our commitment to efficiency and transparency.

Support for this department means investing in a proven, Christ-centered model that prioritizes excellence, growth, and safety. Through thoughtful mentorship, strong governance, and strategic support, we’re building schools that shape lives. Every initiative is designed to uplift students, support teachers, and foster communities of faith—today and into the future.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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Exploring the Life and Leadership of Eric C. Ward
Exploring the Life and Leadership of Eric C. Ward 940 788 Ken Miller

Pastor. Preacher. Teacher. Mentor. Leader. The late Eric Calvin Ward was all these and more—and now, his extraordinary legacy is the subject of a compelling new biography written by NCC President, Marc K. Woodson.

The Spiritual Leadership Development of Eric C. Ward offers an inspiring look at one of Adventism’s gifted pastors of the twentieth century.

Drawing from years of research and personal reflection, Woodson traces the experiences that shaped Elder Ward’s remarkable ministry—from his early calling to his dynamic evangelistic work and mentorship of future leaders. More than a biography, the book is a study in how spiritual leadership is formed over a lifetime of faith, service, and courage.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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Pedal Power and City Smarts
Pedal Power and City Smarts 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Hundreds of Adventurers learned how to navigate busy city streets of “Sacramento” at the annual NCC Adventurer Bike Derby, held this year at Safetyville USA.

This kid-sized miniature city, full of stoplights, stop signs, railroad crossings, left-turn lanes, and life-like settings, was perfect to give kids a chance to ride their bikes and learn about traffic safety. Children representing more than 25 different Adventurer clubs rode for hours, while volunteers from clubs sold delicious food and snacks to hungry children and parents alike.

In previous years, the Bike Derby was held on the Sacramento Adventist Academy track, where children rode as many laps as they could. This year, however, was an experiment to try a different setting, with an emphasis on learning the rules of the road and being safe in a city setting. Based on the positive feedback from many club directors, Adventurers may alternate between the two venues to maximize opportunities for all kinds of riders.

If your church does nto currently have an Adventurer Club and you’re thinking about establishing one, don’t hesitate to contact Barry van Iderstein in the NCC Children’s Ministries Department for a consultation!

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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Shower Truck Ministry: Concept to Reality
Shower Truck Ministry: Concept to Reality 3883 2062 Ken Miller

Thanks to the support of the Northern California Conference Planned Giving Department, the Urban Ministries department is excited to introduce its new shower RV—a mobile resource designed to bring practical relief to those experiencing homelessness.

Rudy Peters, urban ministries director, welcomed staff at the NCC offices to tour the new vehicle, which features three shower rooms, changing areas, washer-dryer units, and a towed support trailer. Peters explains, “Our goal is to serve urban areas where the need is greatest. We will partner with local churches that form teams, receive training, and bring this service to their communities.”

The program will begin in Oakland, Richmond, Vallejo, Antioch, and Concord, where churches will use the RV to offer more than just a warm shower. It will also be stocked with hair-cutting supplies, bicycle repair tools, clothing, and hygiene items. Peters added. “More than anything, we want to help restore dignity and show people they are not forgotten. Peters also expressed gratitude to Spencer Gibson and the team at RV Country for their efforts in transforming this RV into a meaningful tool for service.

Urban Ministries is one of the five ministries supported monthly by the Conference Advance Offering, providing hope, practical assistance, and spiritual renewal to communities facing real challenges. Support makes it possible to expand these efforts, to meet immediate needs, and to foster long-term spiritual growth and unity in urban communities.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 3, 2025
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