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

Northern Lights

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Douglas Barahona Ordained at Chico Church
Douglas Barahona Ordained at Chico Church 4000 2250 Ken Miller

September 14, Douglas Barahona was ordained at the Chico church.

Born in El Salvador to a military family, Barahona’s family immigrated to the USA in the 1990s. Douglas admitted that while the family settled in Tacoma, Washington, “I started making many poor choices.”

Over the next several years and into high school, these choices led him closer and closer to a gang-influenced life. But with every dangerous turn, the love of his parents and family continually challenged him to study the Bible. He shared, “Reading the Bible, I was drawn to the practical application and wisdom that flowed from it. By the grace of God, I gratefully accepted Jesus into my life in 2011.”

The Holy Spirit continued to work in his life. Through the guidance of many positive groups and people, Douglas eventually decided to pursue a degree in religion at Union College, graduating Cum Laude in 2016.

Joining the NCC in 2017 at the Ukiah church, he joyfully worked planning youth ministry events and mission trips, keeping area youth engaged with Jesus. In 2020, he attended Andrews University, earning his Master of Divinity degree with honors. Subsequently, he returned to the NCC as the Associate Pastor of the Chico church, where he is passionate about bringing the joy found in serving others.

Douglas shares his life with Natalie, his wife of eight years, and they enjoy raising their son Luka, age 2.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 26, 2024
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Spanish Company Reaches Church Status
Spanish Company Reaches Church Status 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On September 7, the Richmond Spanish Company celebrated becoming a Church of the Northern California Conference.

This dedicated congregation marks a new chapter in their faith journey. In 2002, a small group of believers set out to form a new congregation led by Thelma Gamboa and Carlos Deras. Inspired by Pastors Juan Acosta and Raúl González, they began their meetings in a member’s garage.

As a result of steady growth, they made several location changes over the years. One of those stops was meeting at the Richmond Beacon Light Church. David Woolcock, pastor, helped the group apply in 2019 to become a Company as they grew. Woolcock reflected, “This congregation is hardworking and passionate about their church and continuing outreach to the Spanish-speaking community. I’m proud of this milestone they’ve reached.”

Paul Guevara, Hispanic Ministry Coordinator, shared, “I am inspired by the passion, hard work, and dedication that members of Richmond Spanish have shown. They genuinely connect people to an abundant life in Jesus and prepare them for His soon return.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 19, 2024
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Planting Seeds In A New Field
Planting Seeds In A New Field 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Grace and Nick Lossev have spent their lives answering God’s call to share the love of Jesus with the world. Their journey has taken them from the islands of Micronesia to the bustling streets of Japan, planting churches and spreading hope wherever they went. But in 2019, they found themselves asking God a new question: “What’s next? How do we make a difference now?”

With open hearts, they prayed for guidance—and God responded in an unexpected way. He opened their eyes to a unique mission field: the Jewish community. Inspired by the words found in Education, page 578, which declares that “many among the Jews will be converted” and that God’s truth will go forth like a “lamp that burneth,” Nick and Grace felt their hearts ignite with a fresh vision. They began leading Bible studies through the North American Division’s Jewish Adventist Ministries, starting on Zoom with groups on the East Coast.

The success of these studies spurred them to action closer to home. Based at the Novato Church, they started reaching out to the Jewish community in the Bay Area, where over 350,000 ethnic Jews live in Sonoma County, Marin, and beyond. With joyful determination, they began attending local restaurants and community events, striking up conversations and building friendships. To their delight, they found many Jewish individuals open to discussing biblical topics.

“The doors are opening!” Nick exclaimed, amazed by how God was working. “We’ve even had people of the Jewish faith come to our church.” Each encounter felt like a step forward in the mission God had set before them, and their hearts overflowed with gratitude for the opportunities.

Matt Matzela, the former pastor of Novato Church, watched with joy as the Lossevs’ ministry blossomed. “It’s incredible to see the Jewish work moving forward in the Bay Area,” he said. “There is such a great need, and we are so thankful for Nick and Grace’s passion and dedication to this ministry.”

For the Lossevs, this work is more than a mission; it’s a calling that fills their hearts with hope. They believe that God has been preparing them all along for this moment—to bring His light to those ready to receive it. Every Bible study, every conversation, every connection brings them closer to the abundant life Jesus promises. With faith, joy, and a sense of adventure, they continue to share His love, one heart at a time.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 19, 2024
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Zach Reiber Installed at Paradise
Zach Reiber Installed at Paradise 549 444 Ken Miller

September 7- Zach Reiber was installed as pastor of the Paradise Church.

Rudy Peters, NCC African American Ministries Coordinator, stated, “There is a fantastic sense of excitement and anticipation from Pastor Reiber and the church congregation about what they will accomplish together through their ministry.”

Reiber started his ministry in our territory in 2011 as the Assistant Pastor of the Pleasant Hill church until he attended seminary training. He earned his Master of Divinity in 2017 from Andrews University and returned to the NCC in 2018 as the pastor of the Yuba City church.

Reiber commented about his new position, “My family and I are so blessed to be welcomed in by such a warm and loving community. The ministry leaders here desire to earnestly seek God’s will and head passionately in that direction. I can’t wait to see what God has planned for our time together as we serve the community of Paradise.”

Reiber shares his life with Yvette, his wife of 14 years. They find great joy in raising their daughter Caroline, age 3.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 12, 2024
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A Passion for Past and Present
A Passion for Past and Present 4000 2254 Ken Miller

The Pleasant Hill Academy library is undergoing a remarkable transformation.

Lorry Muth Gospovocheck, a former student and teacher, has spearheaded a rebuilding project as a tribute to her mother, one of the school’s first librarians. Gospovocheck is an ardent educator who deeply believes in the life-changing power of books.

Once the music room, then the library, and even the 7th and 8th-grade classroom during COVID, the space is now reimagined. A new student center will occupy the back, while the front will soon house a renewed library.

Many volunteers have jumped in and are working tirelessly to bring this project to life. Their commitment reflects the shared belief in the value of education and community spirit. This library renovation is not just about books—it’s a powerful reminder that when passion and purpose unite, amazing things happen, ensuring the library will inspire students for future generations.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 12, 2024
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A Joy and Willingness to Worship and Serve
A Joy and Willingness to Worship and Serve 4004 2250 Ken Miller

Over Labor Day weekend, the Gracepoint Church hosted an area-wide youth rally with over 100 high school students attending.

The weekend’s theme was “Real Life, Real God,” presented by Andrew Uyeyama, pastor of the Placerville church. Youth musicians and vocalists led all worship services during the three church programs. On Sabbath afternoon, attendees participated in six service activities near downtown Sacramento.

The projects included a homeless outreach, where 150 individuals received lunch, prayer, and GLOW tracts. Another activity involved singing at three area nursing homes and creating 32 blankets for homeless shelters. A community prayer walk contacted over 50 homes near the church, and a drive-through prayer line drew a dozen drivers requesting special prayer. As a fun and creative addition, some made over 80 dog toys delivered to local animal shelters.

Caleb Serna, a participant, stated, “I enjoyed the outreach the most. I fed people experiencing homelessness, and it was nice to see how happy they were even when they had so little. It made me smile, knowing I could help others.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 12, 2024
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Generational Bonds Strengthened at Korean Camp Meeting
Generational Bonds Strengthened at Korean Camp Meeting 4320 2880 Ken Miller

Korean Camp Meeting this year at Pacific Union College was a profound and transformative experience, with over 1,200 attendees filling the campus. James Lim, Asian Pacific Ministries Coordinator, remarked, “After a slowdown due to the pandemic, the yearly event has a renewed energy and purpose.”

A significant sign of this revival was the notably higher participation by young adults. Lim continued, “Our younger generation is getting more involved with their home churches. In a time dominated by digital interactions, seeing them seek face-to-face fellowship at camp meeting was encouraging. By Sabbath, it was evident the Holy Spirit was sowing unity and spiritual renewal with the audience.”

Getting together each year brings together families and members from Northern and abroad. Lim continued, “Seeing so many generations of members and children was heartwarming. This event continues to be a valuable resource in winning souls for heaven, nurturing spiritual growth, and strengthening family and community bonds.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 5, 2024
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Back to School Joy and Excitement!
Back to School Joy and Excitement! 4000 2250 Ken Miller

The wheels of NCC education are spinning again, accelerating into a new year filled with hope.

As classes kick off, the excitement is tangible. Principals and teachers have met, aligning on the latest policies and embracing the mission ahead. Students are joyfully reacquainting with friends, getting used to new classrooms, and diving into their subjects.

Our Adventist schools uniquely blend academics with spiritual growth, fostering strong moral character and a deep personal relationship with God. Albert Miller, Superintendent, explained, “With high academic standards and small class sizes, our schools create a supportive environment that prepares students for life and eternity.”

As a result, many of our schools are reporting increases in enrollment. Rio Lindo Academy is welcoming about 40 new students, Pine Hills is increasing by 14, and El Dorado is reporting over 12 new beaming faces.

The contagious enthusiasm among educators and students is setting the stage for a year of growth, learning, and lasting memories. Let’s keep all our schools, students, and educators in our prayers.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 5, 2024
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Leoni Meadows: Transforming Lives One Camp at a Time
Leoni Meadows: Transforming Lives One Camp at a Time 3897 2051 Ken Miller

Leoni Meadows Camp is more than just a retreat center and camp—it’s an NCC ministry that creates abundant joy for children and adults of Northern and many other conferences, states, and an occasional country. In 2023, 20% of the guests who visited Leoni were not from Northern.

Kristen Lo from Sonora, California, is one of them, as she explains her Family Camp experience, “This was our second year at family camp. Every activity resonated with our family; there was something for everyone. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff. Their kindness and patience, reflecting the traits of Jesus, will keep us coming back.”

Craig Heinrich, camp director, reflected, “Our daily mission is to connect our visitors to an abundant life in Jesus Christ and prepare them for His soon return. Since COVID and the Caldor fire, returning the camp to normal has been challenging. This summer was the first in many where I could truly state everything was normal.”

The staff’s impact on campers is profound, showing a motivation to love, serve, and teach. Wrangler camp staff member Elia Privat witnessed, “We celebrated nine baptisms at teen camp and six more at junior camp this summer. For each, the staff gathered around the kids as they were baptized, praying, singing, and cheering as they emerged from the water. Watching the Holy Spirit work was incredibly inspiring. It united us as a team and motivated us to serve each other and each camper at a deeper level.”

Leoni Meadows is a beacon of hope and service and a place for spiritual growth, which impacts those who spend time there. Its success as a ministry is a testament to a team of cheerful givers, tireless volunteers, and employees who find immense joy and satisfaction in providing a camp and retreat center that honors God.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 22, 2024
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Faithful Service Creates Trust and Abundance
Faithful Service Creates Trust and Abundance 4000 2250 Ken Miller

At Concord International Church, abundance is joyfully measured by the number of families they are privileged to serve each week.

Every Thursday, about 70 enthusiastic volunteers from the church and local community come together to create a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere, providing groceries to over 700 individuals. This weekly gathering has become a beacon of hope and connection, where the spirit of giving thrives.

Since its humble beginnings in 2020, the food pantry has blossomed into a beloved weekly event that brings the community together. What started as a small act of faith has grown into a dependable ministry that the community trusts and cherishes. Scott Groschel, co-director, shared, “We’re helping people make a difference in their lives. Many face tough choices between paying for food, electricity, or gas to get to work. Here, they don’t have to choose—they can find nutritious food and a sense of relief. It’s amazing to be part of something that positively impacts our community.”

The pantry’s success is built on a foundation of generosity and partnerships with local food banks, Costco, and Safeway. As Scott Groschel observed, “This is more than just a place to get food—it’s a community. People come here and make friendships while they wait in line or shop. It’s wonderful to see how faith and kindness bring people together.” The pantry’s dedication to service has even garnered recognition, earning them an award from the Foodbank of Contra Costa and Solano and support from local city council members.

Gigi Groschel, the director, is grateful for the blessings that have poured into this ministry. “God has blessed this ministry far beyond what we ever imagined, allowing us to reach so many more people in need,” she said, her voice full of joy. “We have countless opportunities to share with each person about the God we serve, and we can see the Holy Spirit working in their lives. It’s truly incredible to witness God’s amazing work!”

Concord International Church’s food pantry is a shining example of how faith, service, and community spirit can create an abundance of blessings for everyone involved.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 22, 2024
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Every Thursday morning, Northern Lights, the official news source of the Northern California Conference, shares how churches, schools, and members are connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His soon return.

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