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Womens Ministry

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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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Mission in Action Part 2 of 3
Mission in Action Part 2 of 3 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Prologue – by Laurie Trujillo, Director of Communication and Development

It is a privilege to share the stories of our churches, ministries, and schools. In June, a trend emerged in the reported stories, reminding me of the promises in Acts 1:8 and Joel 2:28-29, highlighting the Holy Spirit’s transformative work among all believers.

This is the second edition (read part 1 here) of three Northern Lights stories highlighting three beautiful stories where the Holy Spirit’s presence was felt: a Women’s Ministry event at the Arcata-McKinleyville and Eureka Churches, a wave of spontaneous baptisms at Capital City Church in Sacramento, and the Youth Ministries’ Summer on the Run event in Stockton.

A Celebration in Heaven

Sabbath began like any other at Capital City Church, but it would turn into a day etched in the memories of many. Before Pastor Damian Chandler took to the pulpit, the congregation witnessed the joyful baptism of four individuals. As the special moment concluded, while still in the baptistry, Chandler asked, “Are there people in the audience wondering if the pool is still warm? There is still time; there is still time!”

Little did anyone know what God had in store. The Holy Spirit moved powerfully over a man who had decided to attend the worship service that day. Witnessing the baptisms, Jeremiah Douglas stood up and proclaimed, “Today is my day, and this is my time.” With tears of joy, he accepted his Lord and Savior and was baptized. As Jeremiah shared his testimony, people could be seen walking up the aisle, ready to make their commitments.

The pastoral team, Damian Chandler and Jason Bulgin, overwhelmed with emotion, watched as person after person stood up and walked to the front to be baptized. Chandler exclaimed, “I’m a witness today that it’s never too late. Three more baptisms to go. The Holy Spirit is stirring the water.”

But the Holy Spirit was far from finished. Salem, a soccer player, shared his heartfelt journey, explaining how he had to “tiptoe through Adventism” to minister to his family and team members. After his friends were baptized, he joyfully declared, “Give your gift to the Lord, and He will use it to His glory. I was afraid until I saw my children get up and not be afraid. I felt the Lord convict me to be baptized today.”

Chandler, moved by the Spirit, said, ” Get out of your seat and re-commit your life to Jesus. You know who you are. I’m going to keep this robe on.” A young girl responded, walking up and saying, “I want to get baptized now. God has called me to an amazing life.”

More people followed her into the baptismal pool, giving their lives to God. One man, tears streaming down his face and mingling with the water from the pool, proclaimed, “I am finally saved, thank you, Lord! I had no faith, but You found me! I was dead, and You found me! You don’t know, but there are nasty places, and I have walked them. And Lord, You brought me back!”

Three siblings committed their lives to the Lord and were baptized. A married couple celebrating their anniversary that day also chose to be baptized. Associate Pastor Jason Bulgin tearfully baptized his adult daughter. A woman named Kimberly, who had been watching the service online, felt the Spirit move her so strongly that she got dressed and then drove to the church to be baptized.

Ricardo Graham, retired Union President, attended with Audrey, his wife, “We were sitting there preparing to hear Pastor Chandler’s final sermon. After the call, so many people lined up for baptism, many teens and young adults. We had never seen anything like that in our 47 years of ministry!”

By the end of this extraordinary day, after spending two hours in the baptismal pool, 30 people had given their lives to the Lord through baptism and the profession of faith.

Raven, a church attendee, summarized the day perfectly: “It was a spirit-filled day. I didn’t realize at the time that my friend had gone up for baptism to re-commit herself – it was a joyful surprise to me and others as she hadn’t planned it. Watching my friend open up about her journey and boldly speak about the life with Christ she desires is inspiring and encouraging to continue uplifting those around us in prayer.”

Featured in Northern Lights, July 25, 2024

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Community Connects Over Tea and Pastries
Community Connects Over Tea and Pastries 2000 1125 Ken Miller

On May 5th, the Women’s Ministry Council at the Placerville Church hosted 170 women at its 5th Annual Women’s Ministry Tea. The annual event is dedicated to serving and connecting women of all generations. Each year, guests are encouraged to contribute to local community projects.

Stefi Affron, volunteer, reflected on the event, saying, “This year’s Women’s Tea was a true celebration of inclusivity, with women from 11 different Adventist churches, some traveling from as far as Yreka and Loma Linda.” The diversity was evident, with 30 returning attendees from the local foothill area. Ten women who came had never attended an event at Placerville Church.

Affron concluded with heartfelt words, “Our yearly tea is one of the many ways our church reaches out to serve and support the women in our community. It’s a beautiful reminder of the strength and unity of sharing love and kindness.” She emphasized that it is more than just an event; it is a celebration of community, faith, and the transformative power of collective kindness.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 13, 2024
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Women With a Higher Purpose
Women With a Higher Purpose 1906 1072 Ken Miller

The air buzzed with excitement as the morning sun rose over Leoni Meadows. Over 500 women had gathered at the annual Hispanic Women’s Ministry retreat, creating a sense of anticipation and camaraderie.

Paul Guevara, NCC Coordinator of Hispanic Ministries, looked out at the crowd with pride. “Never has there been a reunion as big as this in the last 20 years,” he exclaimed, addressing the sea of smiling faces.

The event’s theme, “Belleza Entre Las Cenizas” (Beauty Among the Ashes), beautifully mirrored the surrounding landscape. Around Leoni Meadows, grass, flowers, and small trees were beginning to sprout from the land, a visual symbol of renewal and growth. Lisa Marsh, the Women’s Ministry Director of NCC, passionately shared her vision of uniting women in our churches to reach women in Northern California communities. This vision resonated deeply with the attendees.

Florinda Guevara, organizer, and volunteer director of the Hispanic Women’s Ministries, has tirelessly worked with her team on their strategic plan to engage, train, support, and empower women leaders at the church level. One key component of her plan was the NAD Women’s Ministry Leadership Certification.

At this year’s event, they celebrated the hard work and dedication of 8 women who completed all four levels to earn their certification. One recipient, her eyes gleaming with pride, shared her experience. “I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge about effective leadership principles, communication and conflict resolution, problem-solving and decision making, visioning and goal setting, mentorship and counseling, running small group ministries, and practical strategies to reclaim lost members,” she said. “I am thrilled to contribute to my church’s efforts in reaching out to the women in my neighborhood.”

When asked about the attendance, Florinda shared, “About half of these women are non-Adventist or not members of our churches. They have been warmly invited by a church member to be here. Witnessing the Holy Spirit’s work in our community is a true blessing and a testament to the power of unity and outreach.”

The event had historic attendance, driven by a clear purpose to connect women to an abundant life with Jesus and a reliance on the Holy Spirit by newly trained women leaders. Florinda quoted Ellen G. White: “There is a higher purpose for woman, a grander destiny. She should develop and cultivate her powers, for God can employ them in the great work of saving souls from eternal ruin” (Evangelism p. 465).

Featured in Northern Lights, May 9, 2024
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Young Women Organize to Serve
Young Women Organize to Serve 1895 981 Ken Miller

Recently, the Young Women’s Ministry gained a new and passionate organizer, Sophia Suisala, a member of the Antioch Church.

Suisala stated, “This ministry for young women, ages 17-25, has languished since the pandemic. But recently, our core group has been meeting in person and online to outline our goals and move forward. I am very excited!” It was in these small meetings that the team developed a mission statement to “Love God, Love Yourself, and Serve Others.”

Suisala continued, “Our team is dedicated to creating an atmosphere of inclusivity for all young women while still being authentic to who they are as individuals.” The team is working collaboratively to create a newsletter that champions the contributions of young ladies in creative ministries, serving others, social activism, and entrepreneurial pursuits.

The core group has committed to visiting churches throughout the NCC to grow the ministry and help young women organize and serve their community together.

Featured in Northern Lights, March 14, 2024
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New Women’s Ministries Director Selected
New Women’s Ministries Director Selected 2316 3041 Ken Miller

We are pleased to welcome Lisa Marsh, MSW, as our next NCC Women’s Ministry Director.

As a distinguished speaker and graduate of Loma Linda University, Lisa has over 25 years of experience as a California Public Child Welfare System social worker. For over a decade, she has secured “forever homes” for hundreds of foster children throughout California.

In 2015, Lisa joined the faculty in the Division of Social Work at California State University-Sacramento, where she teaches and trains future social workers. She is currently the Director of Field Education. She truly enjoys preparing, guiding, and coaching individuals as they transition from social work students to competent and ethical social work professionals.

In addition to her professional career, Lisa is passionate about sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, particularly with women in various seasons of life.

Expressing her enthusiasm for her new role, Marsh emphasized her heartfelt desire for women to recognize and embrace God’s intentional love for them. She firmly believes that God sees, redeems, restores, and loves each woman as His daughters—young or seasoned, married or single, working or stay-at-home, broken or victorious. Her goal is to encourage and equip women to overcome shame, self-doubt, and fear and live their lives to the fullest potential of their God-appointed roles with courage and confidence through Jesus Christ.

Marc Woodson, NCC President, expressed his delight in Marsh’s selection, affirming her as a valuable addition to the NCC team. With her extensive experience and commitment to women’s empowerment, Marsh is poised to impact the ministry’s initiatives and outreach efforts significantly.

Outside her professional endeavors, Marsh finds fulfillment in her family life. She shares a loving bond with her husband of 26 years, Gerald, and they cherish the joys of raising their children, Hannah, Noah, and Paige.

As Marsh steps into her new role, her dedication to serving women with compassion and understanding will inspire and uplift countless lives within the NCC community and beyond.

Featured in Northern Lights, March 21, 2024
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The Power of Prayer Ministry
The Power of Prayer Ministry 1907 995 Ken Miller

The NCC Prayer Ministries team recently held their annual prayer retreat at Leoni Meadows, which attracted over 120 attendees.

Esme Ross, the ministry director, expressed her satisfaction with the turnout and highlighted the impact of the event, particularly the blessing brought by speaker Melody Mason.

Reflecting on the retreat, Vince Saunders, pastor of The Haven, remarked on the abundance of insights shared regarding various forms of prayer—corporate, personal, and intercessory. He noted that the experience left everyone feeling more deeply connected to God.

Ross concluded, “Overall, the retreat was a spiritually enriching and transformative experience for all who participated.”

Featured in Northern Lights, March 28, 2024
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Mulching Mission Movement
Mulching Mission Movement 2000 1125 Ken Miller

October 10- It was all hands on deck as the NCC administration offices locked the doors and workers descended on Maidu Park in Roseville for the annual community service day.

In 2022, workers spread sixty yards of forest mulch at another Roseville park. This year, 300 yards were piled around the new location. The contrast in job size raised a few eyebrows. Albert Miller, NCC superintendent of schools and project coordinator, looked across the park at the piles and drily stated, “Well, it ain’t gonna get done by itself.”

While the mulch group shoveled and raked the piles methodically, smaller teams painted perimeter gates bright yellow and refreshed red curb paint along driveways. Four baseball equipment shacks were painted grey and blue. By the end of the workday, finished painters joined in the mulch movement, and the team completed all the jobs.

Brian Casteluccio, Roseville Parks, Recreation and Libraries Superintendent, wrote, “I want to send a huge kudos to your team. They did a great job! It was a very successful volunteer event. Your work is greatly appreciated by the City of Roseville and the community.”

Featured in Northern Lights, October 26, 2023
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Catrina LeSure Ordained
Catrina LeSure Ordained 1983 1197 Ken Miller

September 23, Catrina LeSure was ordained at the Palo Cedro Church.

Her father gushed in his introduction, “Catrina has loved the Lord from a very young age. With that came a desire to serve others. As a result, she graduated from Andrews University with a degree in Education.”

Her first job out of college was a junior-high teaching position, and while she loved the kids and being their teacher, it fueled a desire to go deeper. She returned to Andrews, studied for the ministry, and pursued service as a pastor.

After entering ministry in Idaho, she answered the call to the Palo Cedro church, where she is currently the youth pastor.

Marc Woodson, NCC president, praised, “We are very proud of Catrina today; she has served the Lord well and served with courage, and we are glad she is a part of the NCC.”

Featured in Northern Lights, October 5, 2023
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Prayer Rally at Capitol Draws Appreciation
Prayer Rally at Capitol Draws Appreciation 2000 1125 Ken Miller

September 10- The NCC Women’s Ministry department sponsored a women’s prayer rally at the State Capitol Rose Garden.

Angela Fusilier, women’s ministries coordinator, reported, “We prayed, worshiped, sang, conversed, and praised the Lord in harmonious spirit. But the Lord had even more in store for us.” One attendee, Yvette, wrote on the ministry’s Facebook page after the event, “The speaker, Lisa Marsh, was amazing, the ministries were inspiring, the vegetarian food was delicious, and my table mates even offered me flowers! God knew that I needed to hear every word that was spoken that day! Praise Him!”

Gwiin Correa, Southgate church member, reported that a gentleman from Norway who had flown to Sacramento for a concert he ultimately missed stumbled upon the Sunday morning gathering while exploring Capitol Park. Drawn in by the music, he joined the prayer event and stayed for the entire luncheon. Touched by the experience, he shared, “I plan to find a Seventh-Day Adventist church when I return to Norway.”

A women’s ministry member, Niki Eby, exclaimed, “Wow, my heart is full! The vision of this event and the passion of the attendees came together beautifully! The morning prayer event was amazing. So many people were blessed with overflowing goodness!”

Fusilier explained, “We met in prayer to ask God into our lives, families, community, and government. The power of the Holy Spirit blessed the people who came, and many surprises that can only be attributed to His work were witnessed. We continue to connect and minister to the friends we made there.”

Featured in Northern Lights, September 28, 2023
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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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