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Elias Esquivel is the new Leoni Meadows Camp Director.
Elias Esquivel is the new Leoni Meadows Camp Director. 3583 1833 Ken Miller

The Northern California Conference (NCC) is delighted to welcome Elias Esquivel as Leoni Meadows Camp Director. He will start in October.

For Esquivel, camp ministry has been more than a career—it has been a lifelong passion and calling. His journey began in 1999, when, as a 14-year-old, he worked in the dish room at Pine Lake Retreat in the Florida Conference. “Camp ministry is my passion,” Elias reflects, “because it changes lives, and it changed mine.” He would go on to spend ten years at Camp Kulaqua in Florida, serving as the Operations Manager before moving back to Pine Lake as the Camp Manager. Eventually, his path led him north to the Ohio Conference, where he spent five summers at Camp Mohaven, four of those years as Camp Manager.

Elias combines a passion for ministry with practical skills. Growing up on a farm, he learned responsibility early, driving tractors at age five and fixing what needed repair. He later studied structural engineering and earned a business degree, giving him what he calls “a well-rounded grasp of plant operations and systems.”

Camp has shaped Elias’ life in many ways—including personally. During a Bible workers’ program at camp, he met his wife, Lizandra. For twenty years, they have built their life around faith, ministry, and service, and today they’re raising two children, Elijah (14) and Lilah Ruth (11).

At the heart of Elias’ vision for Leoni Meadows is a promise from Scripture that has guided him throughout his life:” ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV).

“Throughout my life I’ve tried to seek God’s will, and it doesn’t always line up with my own,” Elias reflects. “But I know God’s plan is better than mine, and He declares that He will prosper us and not harm us. I always defer to Him, knowing His plan is the best.”

Stepping into leadership at Leoni Meadows, Elias’ priority is people and mission. “My goal is to listen and learn the operation well, then chart a plan forward,” he says. “We’ll keep strengthening programs, investing in safety and excellence, and serving kids and families. None of this happens without our dedicated staff—I want them to know how essential they are to the camp’s success.”

With broad experience, practical skill, and deep spiritual conviction, Elias is ready to lead Leoni Meadows into its next chapter—in this place, children, families, and staff encounter Jesus in transformative ways. Please join us in welcoming Elias Esquivel and his family. We’re excited for what God will do next at Leoni Meadows—where unforgettable experiences, Christ-centered community, and life-changing moments continue to flourish.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025
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Jeffrey Maxwell Promoted to NCC Undertreasurer
Jeffrey Maxwell Promoted to NCC Undertreasurer 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Jeffrey Maxwell has been promoted to Undertreasurer of the Northern California Conference (NCC).

Maxwell has served the NCC for over a decade, bringing extensive experience in finance and risk management. From March 2017, he served as Associate Treasurer and Risk Management Director, overseeing financial operations and implementing risk mitigation strategies for the conference. Prior to that, from June 2014 to March 2017, he worked as an Accountant for Trust and Property Management/Treasury, managing financial records and conference assets.

Jaymes Cheney, Treasurer, stated, “I have appreciated Jeffrey, who has been a tremendous help to me, enabling me to get my feet under me more quickly than I would have otherwise in my new role. I look forward to continuing to work closely together and watching him grow in this new role.”

Maxwell’s dedication, expertise, and kind, supportive spirit have made a lasting impact on the Treasury team, the broader conference, and the community. We celebrate his promotion and look forward to the continued contributions he will bring in his new role.

Featured in Northern Lights, September 25, 2025

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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.

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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
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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
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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.

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With Gratitude and Grace: Bethania Diaz Retires After a Remarkable Journey
With Gratitude and Grace: Bethania Diaz Retires After a Remarkable Journey 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On June 30, we celebrated the retirement of a remarkable female leader, Bethania Diaz, whose career has been defined by unwavering commitment to stewardship, integrity, and innovation.

For the past eight years, she faithfully served as Undertreasurer for the Northern California Conference, playing a pivotal role in overseeing treasury operations for churches, schools, and administrative departments. With wisdom, diligence, and a deep sense of purpose, she approached every responsibility with clarity, care, and conviction.

Before her tenure in Northern California, she served in key financial leadership roles in the Southern California Conference and at Orangewood Academy. As a model of faithful stewardship, she managed resources wisely while remaining firmly focused on mission. Her decades of leadership have positively impacted students, churches, and educators across California—leaving a legacy rooted in faith, excellence, and service.

We are deeply grateful for her years of dedicated service. At every step, she has trusted God to guide her—and through her, He has accomplished remarkable things in support of His work and the mission of the Church. We wish her joy, peace, and every blessing as she begins this well-earned new chapter of life.

Featured in Northern Lights, July 24, 2025
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Voices of a New Generation: Reflections from Our GC Session Delegates
Voices of a New Generation: Reflections from Our GC Session Delegates 4000 2250 Ken Miller

The 62nd General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church brought together representatives from around the world to pray, worship, and make decisions that shape the future of our global church.

Among them were three young adult delegates from our territory—leaders, volunteers, and members of local congregations who stepped into this significant responsibility with courage and conviction.

In the following reflections, each delegate shares their personal experience—what led them to say yes to this calling, their impressions of the decision-making process, and how it felt to have a voice and a vote at the highest level of church governance. They also offer candid insights on what surprised or inspired them, what it was like to be nominated to serve on key committees, and how they navigated the challenges of being young—and in some cases, women—in a global leadership space.

Most importantly, they speak directly to other young adults—especially young women—who may be wondering if there is a place for them in church leadership.

Michelle De Peralta Carillo
NCC Member, Woman, Young Adult Delegate

I am a 35-year-old Dental Assistant and Endoscopy Technician. I currently serve as the music and community care ministry coordinator and youth leader at the Anderson Seventh-day Adventist Church.

As a youth leader, it is an honor to empower young people to deepen their relationship with God. One of the things I cherish most is bringing ministry programs from the Philippines to our local church, creating opportunities for spiritual growth and meaningful connection. I firmly believe that the energy and enthusiasm of young people are essential to the Church’s present and future.

When I was unexpectedly selected as the NCC Member, Women, and Young Adult Delegate to the General Conference Session, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. It was an incredible privilege and blessing to be part of the decision-making process for the global church.

Being appointed to the GC Nominating Committee was humbling. It reminded me that when God calls, He qualifies—regardless of our perceived limitations. Serving in this role gave me a front-row seat to global leadership and affirmed how vital it is for young people—especially young women—to have a voice at the table.

My passion is to serve the Lord wherever He leads. Even before the “I Will Go” theme was launched, I would remind fellow youth: We need to go! We must spread the good news and reach others. This experience confirmed that true happiness is found in serving God with my whole heart.

To my fellow young adults: The word ‘church’ is not complete without ‘U’! Although many of us are familiar with the Spirit of Prophecy and our SDA Fundamental Beliefs, we still need revival and reformation in our hearts.

Stay in the church. Do not walk away. The love, comfort, and healing we are searching for can be found here—in God. Let us be a living sermon to the world. The church is a family—and we are one. If God is calling you, do not hesitate. Step forward. Your voice matters, and your willingness to serve can inspire change.

Ruben Vargas
NCC Pastor, Hispanic Ministries, Young Adult

This was my first time attending a General Conference Session, and I felt a deep sense of privilege and responsibility. Being chosen as a delegate is not something many people experience, and I did not take it lightly.

My journey here has been far from typical. I grew up in a non-Adventist home and had a difficult adolescence. But everything changed when I met Jesus and was baptized at the age of 19 at the Oakland Spanish Church. I felt an unshakable conviction to pursue ministry. After studying at Pacific Union College, I joined the Northern California Conference in 2014 as a Bible worker. I served as an associate pastor, attended seminary, and now serve my second church district, including Sonoma, St. Helena, and Napa Spanish churches.

What struck me most was the sheer scale of the event—the crowds, the logistics, the planning—everything was on a level I had never seen in a church setting. Yet underneath the structure and coordination, I was reminded that the church is made up of people. Authentic, imperfect, Spirit-led people. That incarnational reality deepened my appreciation for how God works through His people.

Being young often comes with world-changing ideas—but to shape the church’s future, young people must first show genuine interest in the things of God. Passion is not enough. We need young adults to engage deeply, care about what happens, and be present where decisions are made.

My advice: step in. From what I have seen, the church is not turning volunteers away. Speak up. Share your interests. Be dependable. A willing heart and a responsible spirit can have more impact than expertise. Willingness is the first step—experience and growth will follow.

Sonja Cartwright
NCC Pastor, Woman, Young Adult

Currently, I serve as the associate pastor at the Santa Rosa Seventh-day Adventist Church, a position I have held for the past year. Before this, I worked as a youth pastor in Hawaii and a high school teacher in California. During my time at the seminary, I was actively involved in a variety of discipleship ministries that helped shape my spiritual leadership and deepen my commitment to ministry.

I am deeply grateful to God to serve as a delegate at the General Conference Session and participate in voting on decisions that shape our global church. It was a joy and an honor to represent both young adults and women pastors on this international platform.

The idea of speaking to the global church from a microphone was intimidating. But my extroverted side enjoyed connecting with both old and new friends, and a few fellow delegates encouraged me to practice my speech with them. Their support gave me the confidence I needed to step up and speak.

It was exciting to see other young adult delegates eloquently voicing their perspectives from the floor and contributing to updates in the Church Manual. I felt a renewed sense of hope when Crystal Ward was elected as the first female pastor to serve as Associate Ministerial Secretary for the General Conference. It was a beautiful reminder that the Holy Spirit has been preparing and calling more and more women to step into ministry leadership roles!

Young adults, your voice does matter. Not someday, but today! Start sharing your perspectives at home, at church, and or on social media platforms. Your testimony and ideas can encourage and inspire others. Jesus will use every experience in your life to prepare you for even greater opportunities to serve Him. You are needed. You are capable. And your voice matters.

To the young women wondering if they belong in church leadership—especially in pastoral ministry—please hear this: there is a seat for you at the table! There are men and women who will advocate on your behalf. The enemy may try to fill your mind with excuses and fear, but Jesus will sustain you and provide everything you need for the path He has called you to walk.

Let God’s voice be the loudest in your life. Stay close to your mentors. Laugh often with your friends. And embrace the journey and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.

A President’s Reflection – Marc K. Woodson

“It was both a privilege and a profound joy to lead this dynamic group of young adult delegates to the 62nd General Conference Session.

Seeing them actively participate—voting, speaking, and serving on committees—filled me with immense pride. Their energy, insight, and faithfulness were evident in every moment.

This experience reaffirmed that the church thrives when we empower young adults and women to serve boldly. Their voices matter, their presence shapes the future, and their leadership reflects the movement of the Holy Spirit. I remain committed to equipping and supporting the next generation as they continue to answer God’s call.”

Featured in Northern Lights, July 24, 2025
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A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact
A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact 3894 2072 Ken Miller

July 27 – August 2, 2025, Redwood Camp Meeting promises something special under Northern California’s towering redwoods: Inspiring speakers, exceptional children’s programs, and a God-filled community experience that draws people back year after year.

Jennifer Shaw, camp secretary, reported this year’s lineup of speakers, exclaiming, “We are excited to welcome Jesse Seibel from the Hawaiian Islands to open Camp Meeting Sunday evening through Wednesday morning. His fresh insights will set a powerful tone for the week. From July 29 to August 2, Dr. Jon Paulien will lead a thoughtful evening worship series, guiding us deeper into Scripture and hope. Gary Venden, returns with his warm, relational preaching, and Ángel Rodríguez Medina will bring a dynamic ministry to our Spanish-speaking community.”

Redwood Camp Meeting is a place for all generations. Daily worship and inspiring seminars offer something for everyone. Children especially thrive with themed programs featuring music, crafts, stories, prayer, and a redwood-laden playground.

Other features during the week also include:

Eddie Heinrich will return with Summer on the Run activities, including a waterslide, climbing wall, and fun games that keep kids active and joyful—a Christ-centered adventure they’ll remember all year.

PUC Professor Jeff Joiner will teach free nursing CEU-credit classes on medical mission work, emergency care, and overdose response.

Mark your calendar and register at nccsda.com/RAC, to reserve a shaded campsite. Find your place beneath the redwoods—where faith grows deep and hearts grow close.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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NCC Leadership Announcement
NCC Leadership Announcement 577 406 Ken Miller

Following the vote by the Constituency and approval by the Conference Executive Committee, the following leadership positions have been updated.

 

Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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