Northern Lights

Marlene Rodriguez, associate pastor of the Gracepoint church was ordained on Sabbath July 9.

Jose Marin, executive secretary explained, “The service was a simple, and a beautiful affirmation of God’s calling of Pastor Rodriguez, the first Latina woman to be ordained in our territory.”

As the associate pastor at Gracepoint church, she has found unique ways to connect the community to an abundant life with Jesus Christ.

Jim Lorenz, ministerial director said, “It was great to see Marlene ordained. She is a very gifted person in helping churches connect to their community, an important quality in our territory.”

It is also notable that Rodriguez utilized the NAD’s women in leadership scholarship on her journey to ordination. The scholarship was established for women who are committed to serving the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

When asked about her favorite reflection on the service, Rodriguez said, “We worshipped the One who calls us by name, and to see the diversity in God’s Kingdom was absolutely magnificent.”

Featured in Northern Lights • July 21, 2022

Cherise Gardner was installed as the new pastor of the Chico church on May 7, 2021.

Gardner spent fourteen years pastoring in the Southern California Conference, including the Long Beach church and as an associate pastor of the Eagle Rock church in Los Angeles.

Gardner explains, “I have dedicated my life to empowering others, especially young people. I was drawn to the idea of serving the Lord in some aspect of ministry around the age of five, when I decided to become a pastor like my grandfather.”

On her move to a quieter Chico, Gardner continued, “I couldn’t have imagined a more loving church. The Chico members have been very generous. The day I got here they mobilized the food train and accepted me into their family!”

According to Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, “Pastor Gardner is a motivated and dynamic leader, and will serve the Chico church well in its call to ministry.”

Featured in Northern Lights • July 21, 2022

“When the heart slows, conversation flows,” says Steve Hamilton, senior pastor of the Paradise church.

Hamilton and a cadre of parents, students and community members share a common interest in offroad vehicles. Through a weekly “shop night” on the Paradise school campus, students, youth, and adults come together to design, weld, grind, wrench, paint, and generally modify Land Cruisers, Jeeps and other 4x4s for off-highway travel.

“Of course,” says Hamilton, “once you build the rigs, you must take them out!” The group spends many weekends testing the limits of their handiwork, climbing trails, and motoring over rocks.

These shared experiences create a camaraderie that is unmatched. Hamilton explains, “Through the shop program and off-roading we’re creating experiences with intention.

Hamilton concludes, “Intentional witnessing to a group of people that you have a common interest with is a perfect venue to share your faith. It is a path to a church without walls. What could be more inviting?”

Featured in Northern Lights • July 21, 2022

Walter Arties III, the singing evangelist who founded Breath of Life Ministries, passed away on June 26, at age 80.

“Walter Arties was a visionary. He was a bold, courageous and yet gentle giant who walked among us,” said G. Alexander Bryant, North American Division president.

You can view the “All God’s People tribute to Elder Walter Arties” online:

On Vimeo by Clicking Here

On YouTube by Clicking Here

Featured in Northern Lights • July 14, 2022

Pastor Vince Saunders, was installed as the new pastor of the Haven church in Deer Park on July 1st.

The Haven church was heavily impacted by the Glass Fire and faces unique challenges as many members rebuild.

Saunders has been in ministry since 2006, and in the NCC since 2015.

He says, “I am excited to get started guiding and nurturing a church to be known for its loving spirit.”

Featured in Northern Lights • July 14, 2022

Patty Osborne is excited to be returning to the Northern California Conference to work with the education team!

She has been a teacher at Pine Hills and Echo Ridge in her long teaching career, as well as Principal of Lodi elementary and an associate superintendent for the Central California Conference.

Recently, Patty has been given the greatest job of all, Grandma! She looks forward to working with the NCC as well as her first grand-daughter.

Featured in Northern Lights • July 14, 2022

Joining the NCC education team from Redlands Adventist Academy, Larry Rich brings 30 years of experience in education — 20 as a principal of four different schools.

He looks forward to sharing what he has learned from these positions with NCC educators, while working together in service to the Lord.

Featured in Northern Lights • July 14, 2022

“No church building? No problem,” says Joelle Chinnock, administrator of disaster relief and development at the Paradise church.

Featured in Northern Lights • July 14, 2022