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

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Serving Generations
Serving Generations 4000 2250 Ken Miller

The 2026 Northern California Conference Advantage Awards, held in April, recognized employees whose service reflects the mission and core values of the conference. The awards celebrate individuals marked by contagious kindness, a servant’s heart, passionate hard work, and mission-focused leadership.

Among those honored were two Lifetime Achievement recipients, recognized for decades of faithful ministry and lasting influence: Teacher Susan Alexander and Pastor Dave Osborne.

Susan Alexander: Shaping generations through education

For more than five decades, Susan Alexander devoted her life to Adventist education, impacting students, families, and colleagues. Beginning her denominational service in 1968, she served as a teacher, school nurse, church secretary, and mentor.

Affectionately known as “Mrs. A,” she taught in Yreka and later at Napa Christian Campus of Education from 1998 until her retirement in 2012. Even after retiring, she returned for a year of teaching and continued volunteering at Feather River Adventist School and Napa Christian Campus of Education, tutoring students and supporting teachers.

After 53 years of service, her legacy is seen in the many lives shaped through her care, faithfulness, and commitment to Christian education.

Dave Osborne: A pastor who led with truth and joy

Pastor Dave Osborne served in ministry for more than six decades, joining the Northern California Conference in 1993 after 30 years of pastoral, teaching, and chaplaincy service. He later served as North American Division ministry director and concluded his career as pastor of the Chico church, retiring in 2020.

Known for his ability to speak truth with warmth and humor, Osborne was deeply respected for building trust while guiding congregations through both growth and challenge. His leadership helped strengthen and unify churches throughout his ministry.

A close friend reflected, “He was always positive and energetic, rooted in a deep faith in God and infectious in his love of life.”

Featured in Northern Lights, June 25, 2026
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Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for NCC.
Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for NCC. 4000 2250 Ken Miller

When Patrice (Patty) Osborne reflects on her journey in Adventist education, it always comes back to a first-grade classroom—and a teacher who saw something in her early on, “She told me I needed to go into education,” Osborne recalled. “It’s a decision I have never regretted.” That early encouragement helped shape a calling that has now spanned more than forty years.

On May 6, the Northern California Conference Executive Committee elected Patty to serve as the new Vice President of Education after the retirement of Albert Miller, and she will begin in this role on July 1, 2026.
Osborne’s career began in 1982 and has taken her across multiple conferences, including Central California, Northern California, Southern California, and Texico. Along the way, she has served as a teacher, principal, and administrator, most recently as associate superintendent in the NCC Education Department.
A graduate of Andrews University, Osborne also holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, East Bay, and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Andrews University.
Throughout her career, Osborne has also prioritized family, finding a meaningful balance between home life and her ongoing commitment to education leadership. A devoted mother of four boys—including twins—she now enjoys the energy and joy of five young grandchildren, ages 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1.
For Osborne, Adventist education has always been about more than academics. “I would not be the Christian I am today without the influence of Adventist teachers,” she said. That conviction continues to shape her vision for the future.
As she steps into this new leadership role, Osborne speaks with both humility and purpose. “When I think about the extraordinary educators across this Conference, I am overwhelmed by the honor of being called to lead them,” she shared. “This is a sacred responsibility, and my commitment is to give my very best every single day.”
She is equally passionate about the broader mission of Adventist education, “Education is one of the most powerful ways we can reach our communities,” Osborne said. “It allows us into the lives of families in a way that is natural and welcomed. Over time, you’re not just teaching—you’re mentoring, guiding, and building relationships that can last a lifetime.”
Leaders across the Pacific Union and NCC have affirmed her appointment.
James P. Willis, Pacific Union Conference Vice President for Education, noted,“Patty is an outstanding educator who has significantly advanced the ministry of Adventist education. Her experience and preparation have equipped her well for this role.”
Marc K. Woodson, NCC President, added, “Patty brings a deep love for Adventist education, a wealth of experience, and a clear commitment to mission. Her leadership reflects both excellence and a genuine heart for students, educators, and families. We are grateful for the many years she has faithfully served in this ministry, and we are confident that God will continue to guide her as she steps into this important role. Patty understands that Adventist education is not just about academics—it is about shaping lives for eternity.”
Now stepping into this new chapter, Osborne carries forward a lifelong calling—one rooted in faith, shaped by mentorship, and lived out both in the classroom and at home. Her leadership will focus on strengthening schools, supporting educators, collaborating across ministries, and continuing to connect students and families to an abundant life in Jesus Christ.

Featured in Northern Lights, May, 2026

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Pastors Meetings Seek to Engage and Teach
Pastors Meetings Seek to Engage and Teach 4000 2250 Ken Miller

In January, pastors came together at Gracepoint Church for their annual business meeting—a time set aside for learning, alignment, and connection.

The gathering provided policy updates, moments of inspiration, and dedicated Q&A sessions with leaders from various administrative departments. Some of the topics covered were practical and necessary, including employment matters, hiring, administrative processes, and even routine—but important—details like expense reimbursement.

The event also offered pastors a forum to share with administrators the everyday challenges they face, giving leaders better perspective on the realities of leading and pastoring in their communities.

Jim Lorenz, ministerial director, highlighted the value of these gatherings: “One developmental aspect we intentionally address, is adding to a pastor’s professional toolbox with new or improved skills. There is also the communicational part, where different initiatives can be discussed and clarity can be gained, and lastly, there is the camaraderie of colleagues who might not get to see each other very often.”

Interacting in a setting like this strives to build a stronger, more unified team, better equipped to spread the love of Jesus Christ and navigate the challenges and joys of ministry together.

Featured in Northern Lights, February 26, 2026
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NCC Announces New Media Resource Center
NCC Announces New Media Resource Center 3691 1887 Ken Miller

Recently, NCC Executive Secretary José Marin unveiled the new NCC Media Resource Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and walk-through.

The center was constructed on the lower floor of the Roseville administration building, where the former mail and copy room was located. This space was ideal, insulated from the building’s outer walls. Marin explained, “This resource center will be a production tool to serve our churches, schools, and ministries, where the next level of equipment and production is available for use and instruction.” He noted that the facility has already been used, providing a set for the annual Ten Days of Prayer and videos for conference directors and constituency meeting productions.

Studio usage is managed by the Communication and Development department. Laurie Trujillo, director, shared, “We have established a usage policy that requires training with the NCC’s contracted video professional to ensure users are familiar with the studio and that its equipment is properly maintained.” The studio is equipped with three cameras, a teleprompter, adjustable professional lighting, and an Apple computer with a large cinema display running professional software.

The space also contains three different backdrops to accommodate a variety of recording needs: a podcast/interview setting, a more formal look for program-style productions, and a youthful corner for informal presentations.

Trujillo concluded, “We encourage pastors, teachers, and presenters to utilize this modern and helpful tool for sharing the abundant life found in Jesus Christ and preparing people for His soon return.”

Featured in Northern Lights, January 22, 2026
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Eric Holness Installed at Richmond Beacon Light
Eric Holness Installed at Richmond Beacon Light 3583 1883 Ken Miller

On January 3, Eric Holness was installed as pastor of the Richmond Beacon Light Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Holness comes to Richmond after being the associate pastor of Oakland Market Street church since 2024. The service marked the beginning of a new covenant relationship between pastor and congregation, grounded in prayer, Scripture, and a shared commitment to ministry.

Reflecting on the occasion, Rudy Peters, African American Ministries Director for the Northern California Conference, noted that “the air was filled with expectancy and promises of an amazing covenant relationship.”

Pastor Holness expressed gratitude for the call, stating, “I am humbled and amazed by the opportunity to serve.”

The Richmond Beacon Light family looks forward to a new season of Spirit-led ministry and community impact under Pastor Holness’s leadership.

Featured in Northern Lights, January 22, 2026

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Brandon Dorn Joins NCC Accounting Department
Brandon Dorn Joins NCC Accounting Department 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Brandon Dorn has joined the NCC accounting team as assistant treasurer. He brings experience in conference treasury work, higher-education administration, and a strong commitment to church service.

Brandon most recently worked in the accounting office at Southern Adventist University, where he also served for nearly six years as a men’s dean. Earlier in his career, he worked for just over two years in the treasury department at the Georgia-Cumberland Conference. After prayer and discernment, he applied for the NCC position and is grateful for how clearly the opportunity unfolded.

Raised in Adventist education, Brandon attended Collegedale Academy and later earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southern Adventist University in May 2017. Both of his parents were Adventist grade schoolteachers, shaping his appreciation for faith-based education and service.

Brandon chose church work out of a desire to use the skills God has given him in service to Jesus Christ and His mission. At NCC, he hopes to build strong relationships with coworkers, serve as a dependable resource to the conference and its constituents, and continue growing professionally. He is currently working toward CPA licensure.

Brandon shares his life with Kaylee, his wife of six years, who works as a nurse, and together they enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling, and staying active through hiking, biking, running, and other outdoor activities.

Featured in Northern Lights, January 22, 2026

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Because of You: A Thanksgiving Letter to Our Faithful Supporters
Because of You: A Thanksgiving Letter to Our Faithful Supporters 4000 2250 Ken Miller

By Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication and Development

This Thanksgiving, we pause with full hearts to say two simple words that carry eternal weight: thank you. Because of your generosity, prayers, and steady encouragement, the mission of the Northern California Conference continues to move—quietly in living rooms and boldly in sanctuaries, in classrooms and dorms, at food pantries and baptisteries, along hospital corridors and at summer camps where young people say “yes” to Jesus.

Your gifts do more than fund programs; they open doors. In our churches, seekers find welcome and members find hope. Bible studies flourish, new believers step into the waters of baptism, and congregations discover fresh ways to serve their neighborhoods. In our schools, students learn in Christ-centered classrooms where teachers pray, mentor, and inspire—where worship, service, and scholarship are woven together. Across our ministries, compassion becomes tangible: meals shared, burdens lifted, stories told, and faith renewed.

Scripture reminds us, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1). We see that enduring love reflected in you. Some of you give quietly each month. Others offer time, expertise, or special gifts that launch new efforts. Many of you intercede for pastors, educators, students, and volunteers by name. However you give, you are part of a living testimony that gratitude is not just a feeling—it’s a way of life.

We also know this year has asked for perseverance. Families have navigated uncertainty, churches have carried heavy needs, and leaders have made hard decisions. Yet in every challenge, your faith has shone like a steady light. You have reminded us that mission advances best when God’s people move together—each one bringing a gift, a prayer, a word of encouragement. As Paul wrote, “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion… and your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

So today we give thanks for you—for your trust, your partnership, and your sacrificial love. Because of you, children hear the name of Jesus spoken with joy. Because of you, students discover purpose. Because of you, neighbors are served and congregations are strengthened. Most of all, because of you, the gospel continues to go forth with hope.

May your table be filled with peace, your home with gratitude, and your heart with the nearness of Christ. From our Conference family to yours—Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for being part of this beautiful story God is writing among us.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025

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Pentecost 2025: Lives Transformed in Our Territory
Pentecost 2025: Lives Transformed in Our Territory 3963 2089 Ken Miller

During Pentecost 2025, God’s Spirit moved powerfully across the Northern California Conference.

This North American Division initiative invited Adventists to hold thousands of proclamation events focused on prayer, community engagement, and discipleship. In our territory, members brought this vision to life through Bible studies, evangelistic meetings, and baptisms, marking a season of transformation and hope.

“Thirteen precious souls publicly declared their commitment to follow Jesus. Each baptism told a story of surrender, renewal, and faith, strengthening fellowship and inspiring unity,” reported Jaime Calvo, district pastor of the North Highlands, Sacramento Spanish and Woodland Spanish churches, “And other district leaders helped coordinate prayerful outreach, Bible studies, and mentorship that touched lives and transformed hearts.”

Douglas Barahona, associate pastor of the Chico Church, shared, “In our bi-weekly Collegiate Bible Studies, the Holy Spirit and the book of Acts were central. This led to six baptisms among High School, Collegiate, and Young Adult students. Several students from Adventist and non-Adventist families plugged into the church and began serving as deacons or audio/video volunteers.”

Jaziel Huerta, assistant pastor of Sacramento Spanish, reflected, “We prayed consistently for ten people, and we watched God respond. Many who had been absent or had never attended returned, reintegrated into church life, and grew spiritually.”

Octavian Poenaru, district pastor of the Clearlake and Middletown churches, told the story of Steve and Sandra, who came hesitantly but quickly became active. “The week before their baptism, they took over landscaping to beautify our church and asked, ‘What else can we do for the Lord?’” Their service reminded everyone of the beauty of a “first love” for God.

Leoni Meadows retreat (May 30 – June 1, 2025) provided a sacred setting for two baptisms, while Mayfair Church, North Bay Korean Company, and Sacramento Central SDA Church celebrated transformed lives.

Pentecost 2025 reminded everyone that every baptism marks both an ending and a beginning: the old life ends, and a new life in Christ begins. Heaven rejoiced over each soul that chose Christ—and so did we.

Featured in Northern Lights, October 23, 2025
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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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Northern Lights, the official monthly 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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