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

Youth

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Orangevale Students Excel in National Mathing Contest
Orangevale Students Excel in National Mathing Contest 150 150 Ken Miller

The third and fourth-grade classes from Orangevale Adventist School (OAS), taught by Shelley Kramer, recently celebrated an incredible achievement at the 2025 Tang Math President’s Day Tournament.

The Tang Math Tournament is for Kindergarten through fifth grade, and the math model uses a systematic and streamlined approach to instruction, using visual models, cleverly designed problems, games, and puzzles.

Competing against 6,000 students from 330 classrooms nationwide, OAS students excelled in the following categories:

  • First Place for the 3rd and 4th grade level
  • Second Place overall for first, third, and fourth grades
  • Individual Competition, Levi, a fourth grader, won for his grade level
  • Individual Competition, Oliver, a third grader, won for his grade level
  • Overall competition, First Places for Levi and Oliver in their grade levels

Additionally, 15 OAS students ranked in the top 100 for the number of puzzles completed, solving over 3,000 puzzles each and over 15,500 math fluency puzzles.

Kramer praised her students, “We are extremely proud of the class for their dedication, perseverance, and outstanding performance in this tournament. We are committed to helping each student at Orangevale reach their full academic and personal potential. This achievement reflects the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that we strive to instill in our students.”

Featured in Northern Lights, March 27, 2025
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Adventurers’ Adventure at Marin Headlands
Adventurers’ Adventure at Marin Headlands 3909 2080 Ken Miller

On March 2, 300 Adventurers and their families gathered for the annual Adventurers Family Fun Day in the Marin Headlands. This outing focused on offering families a chance to enjoy the outdoors and strengthen their connections with one another.

The day included visits to the Marine Mammal Center, Battery Townsley, and Rodeo Beach. A family from the Lodi Adventurers club shared photos of their children reaching the top of the hill to see the rare California newts at Battery Townsley. The strong winds made the hike a bit more challenging, but the stunning ocean views and the excitement of seeing the newts made the effort worthwhile. For many, this was their first visit to the Marin Headlands, offering a fresh and memorable experience.

At the Marine Mammal Center, Adventurers had the opportunity to learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals like seals and sea lions. They also discovered ways they could help protect wildlife by reporting injured animals and keeping the beaches safe for marine life.

The NCC Adventurer program provides a space for children and their families to grow spiritually, enjoy the outdoors, and make lasting memories.

Featured in Northern Lights, March 27, 2025
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Missional Minded Ministry
Missional Minded Ministry 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Placerville SDA Church is actively implementing a community engagement plan to create discipleship opportunities.

Launched last year, the initiative has already led to transformative outreach efforts. During Christmas, the church converted its sanctuary into the Town of Bethlehem, offering an immersive experience for the community. Then, in March, they transformed the Life Center—where the congregation currently meets—into a fully operational health clinic.

The clinic served 213 people, with 100 health professionals generously donating their time. Services included health screenings, dental work, eye exams with eyeglass fittings, skin examinations, well-being therapy, and a dedicated prayer room. Volunteers welcomed attendees with warm smiles, guiding them to the appropriate services with care and compassion.

One attendee, a woman who came in for an eye exam, expressed her astonishment at the quality of care she received. She shared, “When I saw the flyer at the town clinic, I was skeptical that any healthcare service would actually be free. I thought it might just be a way to collect my information. But when I arrived, a real doctor examined me, and everything was so professional. After this, I’m scheduled to get my teeth cleaned and then a massage. I feel loved and cared for!”

The congregation wholeheartedly supports these outreach efforts, fostering a culture of generosity by giving their time and resources. The church’s food bank serves over 200 people weekly, and other ministries actively engage members and the broader community. Additionally, the church maintains a strong partnership with its school, viewing it as a vital part of its evangelism ministry.

Pastor Andrew Uyeyama emphasizes the church’s mission: “Having worked as an evangelist, I know how crucial it is for the church to embrace and become relevant to the community. Through interactions like today’s clinic, we can draw people in and minister to them where they are. Seeing our members and community participants so engaged and enthusiastic is exciting!”

Featured in Northern Lights, March 20, 2025
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Church Community Extends Love and Hope
Church Community Extends Love and Hope 2346 1336 Ken Miller

Several members of the Arcata McKinleyville Church suffered a tragic fire on February 3, leaving the church and community mourning the loss. In response, the community has shown an outpouring of love and support.

Matthew Baker, pastor, stated, “The church quickly rallied around the twin sister and children affected by the tragedy, establishing an emergency fund and aiding wherever they could.” The family now consists of a twin sister of the deceased, now responsible for her children as well as the children left behind.

As the church, community, and family grapple with their sorrow, they turn to their faith for strength. One church representative remarked, “What truly matters is that we are reminded that evil and suffering were never intended to exist, and that one day all our questions will be answered. We must remember that through all the evil and suffering, God experiences it infinitely more than we do. When we hurt, He hurts. When we cry, He cries. Our pain comes before Him.”

The bereaved twin reflected, “My church has helped us with money, clothes, calls to Red Cross, prayers, food deliveries, and shopping trips with the kids. So much love has been poured out on us by our Heavenly Father through His faithful children. Through this tragedy, our church and community’s faith is growing. We feel blessed! Before we even realize a need, God has already fulfilled it. We are learning to trust God and take Him at His Word. We are living out Bible verses moment by moment as we draw close to Jesus for comfort, safety, forgiveness, peace, reconciliation, redemption, and love.”

Featured in Northern Lights, March 13, 2025
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Mountain of Miracles
Mountain of Miracles 3791 1962 Ken Miller

The NCC headquarters buzzed with excitement as nearly 100 church leaders and volunteers gathered on February 1, 2025, to preview this summer’s brand-new Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, Mountain of Miracles.

Hosted by Barry van Iderstein, NCC Director of Children and Family Ministries, the event gave attendees a hands-on look at what their churches would soon bring to life.

From the moment they arrived, the energy was contagious. Leaders saw vibrant set designs, watched opening and closing program videos, and even tasted a VBS snack. But the real star? Rainy the Raven, the program’s new mascot, who stole everyone’s hearts.

Rainy came to life through Barry’s 8-year-old daughter, Libby, who eagerly flapped her wings and waddled around. “It’s fun to be a giant raven,” she laughed, “but it sure was hot in there!”

At its core, Mountain of Miracles is more than just a fun program. Through Elijah’s story, kids will discover how God is always with us—providing, guiding, and showing His love in unexpected ways.

If your church missed the workshop, it’s not too late! Everything you need—from curriculum to decorations—can be found here, or by contacting Barry van Iderstein by email.

This summer, let’s give kids a faith-filled mountaintop adventure and show them that God’s love is rock solid!

Featured in Northern Lights, March 6, 2025
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A Chorus of Faith: 25 Years of Song and Sisterhood
A Chorus of Faith: 25 Years of Song and Sisterhood 3898 2718 Ken Miller

On the evening of January 3rd, 45 young women from across the country made their way to Orangevale Adventist School with the same purpose—to sing together again.

They came from different places and spanned generations, from the first Girls Chorus group to the newest members. The oldest was 35, and the youngest was just 10. For many, it had been years since they’d last seen each other. But the years melted away as soon as they stepped into the familiar hallways decorated with children’s artwork.

Brad Davis, Orangevale Principal and choir director, gathered everyone around his well-loved piano. The room buzzed with energy as old songs were dusted off, harmonies fine-tuned, and new friendships formed. Despite the age differences, their shared love for singing erased any gaps, creating an instant bond. In communities like theirs, there’s often a natural divide between generations, but in this space, voices and faith brought everyone together, side by side.

Over the years, nearly 100 young women have found their voices in the choir. On January 4th, nearly 400 people came to celebrate 25 years of Girls Chorus. And through it all, a legacy was celebrated of not only teaching young women to sing—but how to lift their eyes to Jesus.

Featured in Northern Lights, February 27, 2025
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Back From the Ashes; Foothills Elementary Dedicates New Building
Back From the Ashes; Foothills Elementary Dedicates New Building 4000 2250 Ken Miller

For over a century, Foothills Elementary was not just a school but a home. A place where friendships were formed, lessons were learned, and generations grew up together. Nestled in the quiet beauty of Deer Park, California, it had stood the test of time.

Then came the Glass fire.

The flames didn’t just take buildings—they threatened to erase history. The loss wasn’t just physical for families, teachers, and alumni. It was personal. But this community wasn’t one to give up.

Standing in the newly rebuilt auditorium during the grand reopening, Ron Bunch, a third-generation alumnus, took in the moment. The room around him wasn’t just walls and floors; it resulted from countless hours of planning, designing, and hard work. He stated, “I was honored to envision this space and see it come to life,” he said, emotion thick in his voice. “God has truly been involved here.”

Tony Aston speaking for the Napa County Fire Department – CAL FIRE has seen his fair share of devastation, but today was different. Today was about resilience. He stated, “Foothills Elementary is more than a school; it is a landmark, and we are proud that it will continue to inspire students for generations to come.”

Beside him, Curtis Church, the school board chair, nodded in agreement. He knew firsthand the dedication it had taken to get to this day. He remarked, “God sent Principal Wendy Henry here for such a time as this, acknowledging the leadership that had carried the school forward.

As the ceremony concluded, Marc Woodson, NCC President, shared words from Ellen G White’s book, Education, “The student has an object to achieve, a standard to attain, that includes everything good, and pure, and noble. He will advance as fast and as far as possible in every branch of true knowledge. But his efforts will be directed to objects as much higher than mere selfish and temporal interests as the heavens are higher than the earth.” He added, “‘The strength of character developed here at this school will shape lives beyond the classroom.”‘

Featured in Northern Lights, February 27, 2025

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Young Leaders Shine at NCC Bible Conference
Young Leaders Shine at NCC Bible Conference 3844 2018 Ken Miller

Hundreds of NCC school Freshmen and Sophomores, and fifty Junior and Senior leaders gathered at Leoni Meadows the weekend of February 9 for an unforgettable experience of faith, friendship, and mentorship. This annual Bible Conference isn’t just another retreat—it’s a chance for young people to grow closer to God while forming meaningful connections with their peers.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the weekend was the leadership of the older students. These leaders didn’t just participate—they stepped up as mentors, guiding small groups through team-building activities, deep discussions, and Bible studies. For many, this was their first time leading in such a way, and the impact was profound.

“This was the best weekend of my life!” one student leader shared, reflecting on the joy of connecting with younger students and watching their faith grow. Several others joined that sentiment by claiming, “We have never felt so close to God, and the Holy Spirit certainly was guiding the meetings.”

Garrison Chaffee, youth pastor of the Pacific Union College Church, expressed his excitement about the event: “I’m thrilled to see our students stepping into leadership and mentoring their younger peers. It’s amazing to watch them share their faith and create a space where everyone feels valued and supported.”

He continued, “The weekend wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the NCC Youth Department, along with many youth pastors, teachers, and parents who poured their time and energy into making it a success. These adult and student leaders embody the hope and future of our church. It’s a reminder that our future is secured by God’s grace, power, and love.”

Featured in Northern Lights, February 20, 2025
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Sports Creates Christ-Centered Confidence and Teamwork
Sports Creates Christ-Centered Confidence and Teamwork 3841 2009 Ken Miller

From January 22 to 25, high school basketball players from sixteen schools across four states gathered at Pacific Union College for the annual PUC Pioneers Invitational Tournament.

The participants hailed from Maine, Nebraska, Hawaii, and California, including six NCC schools: PUC Prep, Pine Hills, Rio Lindo, Pleasant Hill, Lodi, and Paradise Academies.

This annual event has become a staple on each team’s schedule, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement, teamwork, and friendship. This collaborative interaction between competitors is not lost on parents.

Kathleen, a PUC Prep mother, remarked, “For my daughter, the sports programs and tournaments have challenged her to be a better player and a more confident person. The events have fostered many lifelong friendships over the years.”

During his Sabbath vespers talk, PUC Church Pastor Nate Furness spoke about the spirit of Adventist sports. “Play hard and be competitive, but aim to elevate your sportsmanship and teamwork as Christians. It’s ok to get frustrated when things don’t go right and celebrate when they do. But when the final buzzer sounds, remember we all play for the same team—the team of Jesus Christ.”

Paradise parent Brian Ching shared, “The teachers and coaches of our sports programs have, most importantly, taught my son an enduring level of Christ-centered sportsmanship and teamwork. They have also taught how to lose gracefully.”

Featured in Northern Lights, February 13, 2025
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Commitment to Community Service Leads to Baptisms
Commitment to Community Service Leads to Baptisms 2048 1525 Ken Miller

On August 17, 2024, the Sutter Creek Church celebrated a significant milestone as seven individuals committed their lives to Christ through baptism. Each person’s journey to this moment took a unique path, yet all were united by the love and support they found within their church community.

Several were drawn to God through personal Bible studies and others by service ministries to which the Sutter Creek members are dedicated. One person, Danielle, chose to be baptized before her husband deployed to his military station, while another forewent baptism at the Pathfinder Camporee to be with her church family.

Daniel Cramton, head elder, shared, “We saw families grow in faith as parents and children made individual commitments together. For all those baptized, the church members’ constant influence played a vital role.”

Cramton continued, “Our church is rejoicing in this moment of growth and celebrating these life-changing decisions. Praise the Lord for His work in each life. There is nothing greater than being a part of building up God’s Kingdom and getting one more for Jesus!”

Featured in Northern Lights, December 5, 2024
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