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Statement from the Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Statement from the Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists 150 150 Ken Miller

The facts surrounding the Feather River Seventh-day Adventist School shooting have become more apparent after yesterday’s late afternoon press conference with the Butte County Sheriff’s Office and other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Key facts confirmed yesterday include:

–      Both seriously wounded kindergarten students are being treated and remain in critical condition. Sheriff Kory Honea explained that these two boys have a long road to recovery. Let us continue to keep these boys and their families in prayer.

–      The perpetrator was Glenn Litton, who was later confirmed to be a lapsed Chico Seventh-day Adventist church member and former student at Paradise Adventist Elementary and Chico Adventist Schools. Sheriff Honea reported that he suffered from mental illness and had a lengthy criminal background. As a convicted felon, Litton did not legally own the firearm used in the crime.

–      Law enforcement continues to seek information that will help illuminate Litton’s motive. Still, writings attributed to him suggest that he imagined himself to be a “lieutenant” in what appears to be a fictitious organization called the “International Alliance.”

–      Sheriff Honea confirmed that the attack was an isolated incident and that Litton died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators later discovered that he had scheduled to visit another nearby Adventist school on December 5.

–      Sheriff Honea paid tribute to the efforts of Feather River principal and teachers who acted swiftly and decisively to protect students as soon as the threat was detected.

With the information provided by Sheriff Honea, the CHP Commissioner, the Butte County District Attorney, and the FBI in coordination with other federal entities, it does not appear there is any active threat to our schools, churches, or other Adventist institutions and that Litton was acting alone. As a result, many Adventist schools will resume classes today, and special efforts are being made to ensure counseling support is available to all families and students.

Chico, Yuba City and Feather River Adventist Schools will remain closed as we prioritize care and support for staff, families, and students. Please continue to pray for all our students, especially those hospitalized, and our faculty, staff, and families.

All questions related to this incident should be directed to Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication, at (916) 886-5642 or laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com

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Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund
Donate to the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund 4800 2700 Ken Miller
The Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (NCC) has established the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund to provide a trusted avenue for support. This fund is dedicated to directly supporting the students, families, and staff of Feather River Adventist School, all of whom have been deeply impacted by this senseless and violent act.
In alignment with our values and ethical stewardship, we want to clarify that this fund supports the entire Feather River Adventist School community, not just two specific families. If you wish to restrict your support to Elias Wolford or Roman Mendez and their families, you may indicate this in the check memo line or the notes section of the online giving form. Because NCC is a conduit for support, ensuring that 100% of the contribution benefits those affected, gifts are not tax-deductible.
Please visit the Feather River Adventist School Victims Fund Giving Link to contribute.  Or send your contributions to Northern California Conference, C/O Feather River School Support, 2100 Douglas Blvd, Roseville, CA 95661. If you have questions, you can email our Director of Communication and Development, laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com. Your support will play a vital role in helping our community heal and rebuild.

Click here to support.

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Elder Jack Pefley Enters to His Rest
Elder Jack Pefley Enters to His Rest 961 1240 Ken Miller

We share with deep regret the news of Pastor Jack Pefley’s passing on Friday, October 11.

“Pastor Jack” was an evangelist for Amazing Facts from 1995 to 2009, then joined the NCC as the conference evangelist from 2010 to his retirement in 2017. A former co-worker reflected, “Jack’s style was right out of the Wild West, irrepressible, simple, and down to earth.” Until his passing, he regularly took the pulpit at Citrus Heights, his long-time church family.

Marc Woodson, NCC President, reflected, “Jack Pefley had a passion for winning people to Jesus. His optimistic spirit and joy while doing God’s work were inspiring and encouraging. Only heaven knows Jack’s ministry’s impact on the Kingdom. He will be missed, but we look forward to seeing him again when our Lord returns!”

The family warmly invites you to a memorial service at 11 AM on Sunday, November 3, at the Citrus Heights SDA Church.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 31, 2024
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Loving Others in an Election Year
Loving Others in an Election Year 150 150 Ken Miller

By Steve Allred

Religious liberty is a term that we hear frequently in the political battles of today’s culture. Christians of all political persuasions are concerned with different issues in our world that impact religious liberty.

For example, some of my Christian friends are concerned with the freedom to be able to express their religious beliefs in the workplace without fear of losing their jobs or being denied a promotion. They are concerned with the freedom of religious institutions. to adhere to their beliefs regarding who they hire or Christian schools being able to uphold lifestyle standards for their students. They fear the intolerance of secularism and worry that political correctness and cancel culture are leading to the loss of religious liberty.

On the other hand, I have Christian friends who are alarmed by the rapid growth of a militant brand of Christianity, calling itself Christian Nationalism, that seeks to insert itself into politics to control the government. They are concerned that posting the Ten Commandments in public buildings and having government-sponsored prayer in public schools is not necessarily the way of Jesus, who offers us the freedom to choose in matters of faith. My friends are also concerned with Project 2025, a new political project that mandates Congress “encourage” a communal rest day on Sunday. They are alarmed as they see the wall of separation between Church and State disappearing.

My good friend observed that Adventists often occupy the uncomfortable middle on many issues. Historically, we’ve been a minority faith in a world that caters to religious groups who are in the majority. As a result, we sometimes find ourselves siding with other minority non-Christian faiths on religious liberty issues since they are often advocating for the same protections we are (e.g., Sabbath protections in the workplace). We also seek to be faithful to certain biblical principles (e.g., regarding sexuality) that run afoul of the progressive agenda. As a result, we sometimes find ourselves siding with other Christian groups on these issues where we share common ground. But, all things considered, we often occupy the uncomfortable middle.

Additionally, we do not exclusively identify with any political party or ideology as a church. We are not a Republican church or a Democratic church. We are non-partisan. We also do not believe that politics should shape our faith. We believe biblical principles should shape our worldview; from that foundation, we should make our political choices.

Of course, we can and should make our voices heard on issues that matter to us. And we should do so respectfully and with love. But I suggest to you that our world needs more from us than shouting and Facebook posts on the hottest religious liberty (or other political) topics of the day.

God has given us a higher calling than the political pundits and talking heads on TV or radio. In this tense election year, I suggest four scriptural principles and ideas to consider as you fulfill your calling as a follower of Jesus in the real world.

Your Primary Citizenship Is in Heaven

First, remember that your ultimate allegiance is to the kingdom of God, not to any nation on earth or to any politician: “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Phil. 3:20, NKJV. The apostle Peter puts it this way:

“Live as foreigners and exiles…” 1 Peter 2:11, NIV. This should remind us not to become too preoccupied with politics or let any political ideology become an idol in our hearts. We are citizens of God’s kingdom before any other kingdom or nation.

No Earthly Nation Is God’s Kingdom

Second, don’t forget that the kingdom of God is “not of this world,” as Jesus put it in John 18:36. God’s kingdom is an entirely different kind of kingdom from the political machines of this world. You might remember the story of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in Daniel chapter 2. In the vision, the king saw a statue made of various types of metal. These metals represented the kingdoms of the world: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and the strong and weak nations of our world today, represented by the feet of iron and clay. But the kingdom of God was symbolized by a stone cut from a mountain “without hands.” (not of human origin) that destroyed the nations of the world and became its unique kingdom. The kingdom of God is not an extension of any nation on this planet, nor will it be set up on earth before the second coming of Jesus. We cannot venerate any country or nation as God’s nation. His coming kingdom is not of this world.

Praying for Your Political Enemies!

Thirdly, the apostle Paul reminds us, in 2 Timothy 2:1-4 to “pray for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty”. Why? Because God “wants all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth.” That “all” includes your worst political enemy! Pray for the salvation of our nation’s leaders on both sides of the aisle.

Praying for Yourself and God’s Church

Finally, I recently had a conversation with a friend who used to serve as a missionary in Rwanda. We all know about the terrible genocide that occurred there a few decades ago. Christians who worshipped side by side in church one morning were killing each other the next. Why? My friend told me he believed that tribal identity was more important to the killers than their identity as citizens of the kingdom of heaven. Could this happen to us here as well? Could our political ideologies and political parties become more important to us than our identity as citizens of the kingdom of heaven? Ask God to show you if your political views have become an idol in your heart. And then pray that he will give you — and all of His church — love for those who are different from us and even love for those who may hate us.

As followers of Jesus, we have the solution to our divided world. While the kingdom of God is not of this world, God wants to reveal His kingdom through you in this world. It’s the kingdom of grace, not the kingdom of glory just yet. That kingdom is revealed “within you,” Jesus said (Luke 17:21) that the world is transformed when God’s kingdom shines through His people.

Reaching out to Someone on “The Other Side”

Do you want to do something concrete to promote religious liberty and grow the kingdom of God? In Luke 6:27-28, Jesus gave us a recipe for loving our enemies — something bound to make a difference in their lives: “…do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Right now, think of a person or family on the “other side” of the political or ideological divide. Send up a prayer for them and write it on your calendar to pray for them every day. Then, within the next few days, invite them to do something with you where you can grow a friendship. When you get together, listen to them and hear their perspective without arguing or condemning them. And, at the right time, you can also share your perspective. Or maybe God wants you to be friends and not talk about politics!

This kind of love is what our divided and hurting world desperately needs. When we, God’s church, live this out in our homes, workplaces, and churches, people’s lives will be changed. This love is the secret weapon of the kingdom of God that will ultimately win the battle between good and evil.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 24, 2024
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Mason Philpot Retires After 45 Years
Mason Philpot Retires After 45 Years 624 603 Ken Miller

In September, Mason Philpot, pastor of the Crescent City Church, retired after 45 years in ministry.

Many know Mason as an avid surfer. Lesser known is that he was also a team hopeful for the 1972 U.S. Water polo team. He recalled, “During the Olympic trials, I came down with a mysterious virus that kept me hospitalized for a week, and my Olympic dream was dashed.” Ultimately, that disappointment led him on a circuitous path to serve God. A route, He stated, “I’ve never regretted.”

His search for meaning in life, a commitment to Jesus, and a passion for healthy living from his formative years ultimately led to his joining the NCC in 1979 at the St. Helena Church. Having found his path, he soon attended Andrews University, earning a Master of Divinity degree in 1982.

Over the next 41 years, he was never far from the Northern California coast, pastoring at the Willows, Willits, Fort Bragg, and Crescent City churches.

Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, stated, “Pastor Mason is a consummate friend of Jesus and it shows in his pastoring. Whether it is helping at camp meetings, moving porta-potties around without complaint—which he did up to his retirement, or going out of his way to make people feel welcome at church, you know he loves Jesus.”

Mason concluded, “This journey has been a fantastic story of God leading me in this direction, and that direction, to where I am today. I intend to retire in Crescent City, God permitting, volunteering and surfing when the weather and waves permit.”

Featured in Northern Lights, October 10, 2024
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Danny Kwon Joins Administrative Team as HR Director
Danny Kwon Joins Administrative Team as HR Director 1399 1028 Ken Miller

Danny Kwon recently joined the NCC administrative offices as the Director of Human Resources, bringing a wealth of expertise that strengthens both the HR department and the broader mission of the NCC.

With experience in human resources, payroll, and employee relations, Kwon’s leadership plays a crucial role in enhancing our organization’s efficiency, employee engagement, and overall workplace culture. His previous accomplishments, including spearheading health ministry initiatives and organizing national dental and medical clinics, reflect his deep commitment to service and ability to manage complex, large-scale projects.

Kwon has a background in legal and humanitarian efforts. Growing up in Manitoba, where he earned his law degree from the University of Manitoba, he has actively advocated for underserved communities. His involvement with medical and dental outreach programs continues to support many within our territory. Additionally, Kwon’s pro bono work assisting refugees and preparing asylum applications through immigration services showcases his passion for justice and compassion.

His appointment strengthens the HR department by integrating his legal expertise and a unique understanding of community needs. This dual perspective enables him to address employee relations with a balance of empathy, legal compliance, and practical solutions. Under his direction, the HR function will better serve the diverse needs of the NCC’s employees, furthering our ability to attract, retain, and nurture talent within a mission-driven framework.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the challenges ahead, Kwon shared a favorite passage, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” He trusts that God will guide his service to the NCC, aligning his efforts with divine purpose and strength.

Jose Marin, executive secretary, praised Kwon’s diverse skill set, stating, “Danny brings a wealth of experience to his role as HR Director. His knowledge of California law and his entrepreneurial spirit in founding community service ministries will be a blessing to our employees and entities in Northern California.”

President Marc Woodson echoed these sentiments, remarking, “We are thrilled to welcome Danny Kwon to our office family. His extensive HR experience and legal background make him an invaluable asset to our conference, and we look forward to the positive impact he will bring.”

Kwon shares his life with Lisa, his wife of 18 years, and together, they lovingly raise their three children. Ava and Aaron attend Pine Hills Academy, while Jonah is in the 6th grade at Orangevale Elementary.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 26, 2024

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Jon Cicle Joins Administrative Team
Jon Cicle Joins Administrative Team 1600 1200 Ken Miller

Jon Cicle recently accepted the position of Assistant to the President.

Cicle returns to the Northern California Conference from the Eagle Rock Church in Southern California, where he was the senior pastor.

His career began in the Southeastern California Conference as a youth pastor of the Victorville Church. He was ordained while pastoring in the Valley Center and Poway Church district. Moving to Northern, he served for 21 years, which included youth pastor of Pacific Union College Church, pastor of the Vallejo Central church, and pastor of the Orangevale church.

He remarked about his career, “I’ve learned to try things that have never been tried before, grown to understand the complexities of diverse congregations, and learned to listen for understanding rather than for response. Through it all, my goal has been and continues to be lifting up Jesus with vision and a sense of mission.”

Cicle has enhanced his Master of Divinity degree from Andrews University with professional development, including coaching certifications with StrengthsFinder, Natural Church Development, and Prepare-Enrich Marriage counseling. He stated, “The passage of scripture that keeps me grounded is Hebrews 12:2 ‘fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.’”

Marc Woodson, president stated, “I’m so glad that Jon came back to Northern to serve as Assistant to the President after a short stint away. His many years of pastoral ministry experience and his giftedness will serve our conference well. I’m so glad to have him as a part of my team.”

Featured in Northern Lights, August 8, 2024
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Larry Unterseher Memorial
Larry Unterseher Memorial 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Elder Larry Unterseher, whose work left an indelible mark on the NCC community, passed to his rest suddenly on July 22 at the Redwood Camp Meeting near Eureka, California.

During his career, he worked as a pastor and elementary teacher with the Upper Columbia Conference, a Dakota Conference principal, a Montana Conference Director, and the Nevada-Utah Conference President. He joined NCC in 2014 as the Pastor of Small Schools.

Albert Miller, NCC Superintendent of Schools, expressed, “Larry was a man who loved Jesus and kids, and it showed in everything he did. He took his ministry to the students and staff of our small schools seriously and invested an enormous amount of time and energy to ensure they knew about his friend Jesus! Larry is already greatly missed.”

Marc Woodson, NCC President, stated, “Our NCC family is devastated by the loss of Larry Unterseher. Pastor Larry was passionate about connecting young people to Jesus Christ and preparing them for His soon return. He was so gifted in ministry and had a wonderful and creative way of sharing the gospel with those he met, especially the children he served. Many times, Larry would drop by my office to encourage me as a spiritual leader. I know that he did the same with many other leaders as well. He will be sorely missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife, Rhonda, his children, and the entire Unterseher family. We long for the day Christ shall return and we will be reunited with those loved ones we lost along the way. May Jesus soon come!”

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the Loma Linda University Church Auditorium. The service will be in-person and live-streamed. Please visit the family’s special dedication page for more details on how to join the online stream.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 1, 2024
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Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest
Dudley Galusha Passes to His Rest 696 928 Ken Miller

We regret to announce that Dudley Galusha, a member of The Haven church, passed away peacefully on June 6.

Galusha will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, country, and church. His legacy is inspiring, having contracted the building of numerous institutions in Northern California and beyond. He built schools such as Clearlake School, Foothills Elementary School, Humboldt Bay School, and Rio Lindo Academy. He also constructed churches in our territory, including Cloverdale, Fort Bragg, Meadow Vista, Napa, Pacific Union College, Pleasant Hill, and The Haven. Moreover, he constructed Leoni Meadows, Newton Hall (PUC), and Redwood Creek Camp. His influence even reached international shores with constructing the Frogmouth Chapel in Cooroy, Queensland, Australia.

Vince Saunders, pastor at The Haven, expressed, “Throughout his life, Dudley had a tremendously positive influence within our church and community. Even now, his legacy of support for education and church ministry continues through his family as they rebuild our school. He will be greatly missed, and the reunion in Heaven will be exhilarating!”

His daughter Cynthia wrote, “His long life was very full, and he leaves a lengthy & outstanding legacy in the field of construction in Northern California. His mental sharpness and dry wit remained intact to the very end of his 98 years on earth.”

A celebration of life will be held on July 27, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at The Haven SDA Church,15 Woodland Rd., Saint Helena, CA. In place of flowers, the family has requested any gifts be sent to the following:

Cookson Ranch Foundation (Redwood Creek)

P.O. Box 973, Blue Lake, CA 95525

Friends of Foothills School

711 Sunnyside Rd., St. Helena, CA 94574

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Ending Homelessness by 2032
Ending Homelessness by 2032 986 738 Ken Miller

Over the past year, our Council on Homelessness has worked tirelessly towards a high-level goal: achieving functional zero for a homeless population group in each county where we are present by 2032. This is an urgent mission, as functional zero means making homelessness rare and brief when it occurs, a milestone we are determined to reach.

Key initiatives include:

  • Developing the 1st Annual Summit on Ending Homelessness, to be held in November 2024.
  • Creating an Ending Homelessness Initiative Taskforce (EHIT) for each county where we are present, starting with Placer County.
  • Collaborating with Placer County to end homelessness for veterans.

Your civic engagement, advocacy, and healthcare expertise are crucial to our mission. We need three new members with these skills. Your knowledge and skills will be instrumental in expanding our efforts and guiding our work to end homelessness in our territory by 2032.

If you are passionate about making a difference and have the relevant expertise, we encourage you to join our Council on Homelessness. Click here for The Terms of Reference and a formal application.

With your help, we can make a significant impact and improve lives. We are committed to this cause and look forward to your contribution.

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