91大神

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

Church Growth/Evangelism

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Celebrating the 2025 91大神 锘緼dvantage Awards Nominees
Celebrating the 2025 91大神 锘緼dvantage Awards Nominees 658 563 Ken Miller

Congratulations聽to all our nominees!聽Your commitment to serving with excellence and purpose inspires our entire team.

We are thrilled to announce this year鈥檚 91大神 Advantage Awards聽nominees鈥攅xceptional educators and pastors who embody Contagious Kindness, Servant鈥檚 Heart, Passionate Hard Work, Engaged and Enthusiastic Leadership, Community Relevance, Mission-Driven Dedication, and Organizational Health.

We also extend a heartfelt thank you聽to everyone who participated in the nomination process. Your support helps us recognize and celebrate the incredible work happening across our churches and schools. The final award recipients for each category will be announced April 7.

Contagious Kindness

Educators

  • Cyndee Westenrider, principal at Middletown Adventist School
  • Michael Rosich, kindergarten teacher at Sacramento Adventist Academy
  • Wendy Henry, principal at Foothills Adventist Elementary School

Pastors

  • Robert Mason at Yreka and Scott Valley Church
  • Steve Brownell at Oroville Church
  • Zachary Reiber at Paradise Church

Servant鈥檚 Heart

Educators

  • Byron Hegewald, principal and teacher at ACES Red Bluff
  • Linda Lamb, principal at Yreka Adventist Christian School
  • Nancy Matthews, principal and teacher at Vacaville Adventist Christian School

Pastors

  • Tim McMillen at Grace Point Church
  • Tracy Baerg at Lodi-Fairmont Church
  • Janeen Little at Lodi-Fairmont Church

Passionate Hard Work

Educators

  • Cyndee Westenrider, principal at Middletown Adventist School
  • Matthew Jakobsons, principal at Sacramento Adventist Academy
  • Mekey Lepulu, principal at Rio Lindo Academy

Pastors

  • Brad Gienger at Santa Rosa Church
  • Daniel Garza at Yuba City Church
  • Luccas Rodor at Granite Bay Hilltop Church

Engaged and Enthusiastic

Educators

  • Chase Weideman, teacher at the Napa Christian Campus of Education
  • David Vixie, principal and teacher at Paradise Adventist Elementary School
  • Lisa Nuss, principal and teacher at Lodi Adventist Elementary School

Pastors

  • Damon Washington, at Pittsburg and Oakland Immanuel Temple Churches
  • Jaime Calvo, at Sacramento, Woodland, and North Highlands Spanish Churches
  • Josie Asencio, at Antioch Church

Community Relevance

Educators

  • Beatrice Ahn, principal at Tracy Christian Elementary School
  • Chloe Mapa, principal at El Dorado Adventist School
  • Wendy Henry, principal at Foothills Adventist Elementary School

Pastors

  • Douglas Barahona, at Chico Church
  • Rob Benardo, at Sacramento Central Church
  • Stennett Nash, at Hayward Spanish Church

Mission-Driven

Educators

  • Cyndee Westenrider, principal at Middletown Adventist School
  • Gina Wilmot, Early Childhood Education Center Director at Kingdom Kids Christian Preschool
  • Melany Quintero, principal at Adventist Christian School of Yuba City

Pastors

  • Edwin Brown, at Oakland-Market Street Church
  • Matt Mattzela, at Lakeport Church
  • Sasa Andelkovic, at Sacramento Yugoslavian Church

Organizational Health

Educators

  • Leslie Bartsch, principal at Chico Oaks Adventist School
  • Lisa Nuss, principal at Lodi Adventist Elementary School
  • Richard Nelson, principal at Ukiah Junior Academy

Pastors

  • Damon Washington, at Pittsburg and Oakland Immanuel Temple Churches
  • Ron Yabut, at Anderson Church
  • Walt Groff, at Grace Point Church
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3rd Annual Religious Liberty Summit
3rd Annual Religious Liberty Summit 3641 1894 Ken Miller

On March 1, the Northern California Conference and the Church-State Council hosted the 3rd Annual Religious Liberty Summit at the Pleasant Hill Church. The event attracted 330 attendees for a day filled with insightful discussions, expert panels, and interactive conversations about the importance of religious freedom.

Bettina Krause, editor of Liberty Magazine, was the keynote speaker. Her topic was the trend among many Christians, who believed that increasing secularism in society justifies the church uniting with the government to improve society’s morals.

In the afternoon, an interactive panel discussion titled 鈥淔aith and Justice in the Public Square鈥� featured Krause, Jeanice Warden-Washington, Chief Consultant at California State Assembly, Alan Reinach, President of the Church State Council, Jose Marin, 91大神 Executive Secretary, and Marc K. Woodson, 91大神 President.

The conversation, moderated by Steven Allred, 91大神 volunteer religious liberty coordinator, encouraged attendees to explore the intersection of faith and public policy. Allred noted, 鈥淭he panelists discussed current church-state issues and took questions from the audience.

Building on the success of this year鈥檚 event, the 91大神 and Church-State Council look forward to expanding next year鈥檚 summit and continuing the conversation about faith’s rights and responsibilities in an evolving society.

Featured in Northern Lights, March 13, 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, 鈥淭he church quickly rallied around the twin sister and children affected by the tragedy, establishing an emergency fund and aiding wherever they could.鈥� 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, 鈥淲hat 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.鈥�

The bereaved twin reflected, 鈥淢y 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鈥檚 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.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, March 13, 2025
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91大神 Expands Effort to End Homelessness
91大神 Expands Effort to End Homelessness 5760 3840 Ken Miller

The 91大神 is making strides to address homelessness, aiming to establish 15 Ending Homelessness Task Forces by 2027. These task forces are regional teams of church members, pastors, and those dedicated to addressing homelessness.

Recently, two new task forces were launched in Contra Costa and Mendocino counties. Joelle Chinnock, Ending Homelessness Initiative Coordinator, shared, 鈥淲e are pleased to announce these new groups and are close to聽launching a fourth in the Marin-Sonoma area. This progress reflects a growing聽commitment to addressing homelessness in at least one population group鈥攃hronic homeless individuals, veterans, adults with children, or youth鈥攊n every county where the Adventist Church is present, ensuring homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring.鈥�

Task force members will join their respective county鈥檚 Continuum of Care, agencies which collaborate to address homelessness issues. Josie Asencio, pastor of the Antioch church and leader of the Contra Costa County task force, stated, 鈥淚聽have been attending area Continuum of Care meetings to prepare for our task force鈥檚 first official planning session. I am so impressed that many in our area are motivated for this mission.鈥�

Chinnock concluded, 鈥淚 am encouraged by these new task force volunteers. Each new team moves the 91大神 Ending Homelessness Initiative closer to聽its goal.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, March 6, 2025
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Napa Spanish Hosts Community Health Day
Napa Spanish Hosts Community Health Day 4000 2250 Ken Miller

With the support of the 91大神 Health Ministries Department, the Napa Spanish Church recently held its annual free community health fair.

Local residents were invited to the event, with 49 receiving essential dental procedures and 159 undergoing health screenings. Adventist Health鈥檚 Mobile Health Clinic also provided flu and other seasonal shots to attendees. Healthy food and cooking advice were also an offered service.

Ruben Vargas, pastor, stated, 鈥淲e are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Northern California Conference and the St. Helena Hospital Foundation to impact our community. Additional partners included, The Community Health Initiative, Puertas Abiertas, and the Napa County Health and Human Services Agency. This joint effort reminds us that collaboration can make a greater impact for God鈥檚 kingdom.”

Featured in Northern Lights, February 13, 2025
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Delta Convocation
Delta Convocation 4000 2258 Ken Miller

On Sabbath, February 1, over 800 people gathered for the 3rd Annual Delta Area Churches Convocation, a collaborative event uniting sixteen area churches in a day of worship and fellowship. As one attendee described it, 鈥淚t鈥檚 like a one-day mini-camp meeting.鈥�

The church service featured uplifting performances by the Lodi Academy Lodian Singers, the Delta Choir, and the Korean Chorale. The keynote address was delivered by Sam Leonor, Chief Mission Officer of Adventist Health. After a lunch supplied by Adventist Health, all were blessed with an afternoon of music by talented area soloists, groups and school music groups.

Lisa Nuss, principal of Lodi Elementary, reflected on the significance of the event: 鈥淚t鈥檚 an opportunity to reconnect with friends from other area churches, students, speakers, and musicians from our local community. It鈥檚 a wonderful time to worship God.鈥�

The convocation continues to be a cherished gathering, fostering spiritual renewal among Delta-area churches. As hearts were uplifted and faith strengthened, attendees left inspired to carry Christ鈥檚 love into their communities, sharing His message of hope and grace throughout the year.

Featured in Northern Lights, February 13, 2025
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Ten Days of Prayer Tonight at 7 PM!
Ten Days of Prayer Tonight at 7 PM! 5069 3572 Ken Miller

We invite you to be part of an uplifting and spiritually enriching experience鈥�10 Days of Prayer, happening every evening at 7:00 PM via Zoom.

This is a sacred time to come together as a community, draw closer to God, and lift our hearts in prayer for renewal, hope, and guidance. Each evening is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and experience the power of prayer in transforming lives and deepening our connection with Christ.
Whether you鈥檝e already been joining or are just hearing about it, it鈥檚 not too late to be part of this meaningful journey. Let鈥檚 come together to seek His blessings, encouragement, and peace.

 

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A Season of Compassion and Service
A Season of Compassion and Service 3884 2069 Ken Miller

As the chill of winter settled over Oakland, the Market Street SDA Church came alive with a singular purpose: to bring warmth, joy, and stability to their community during the holiday season.

Volunteers bustled about, joyfully filling boxes with food, treats, and essentials to brighten the lives of families. For many, these boxes represented more than just food; they were reminders that someone cared and that they weren’t alone.

The church also held its annual Angel Tree Gift Program, which serves children. The fellowship hall was filled with laughter and excited chatter as more than 35 children beamed with joy unwrapping gifts and sharing a meal.

Two days later, the church’s impact extended even further. Members teamed up to visit a senior residential housing community. Food bags, scarves, hats, and socks were given out. Seniors, some of whom had not received visitors in months, were greeted with warm smiles and heartfelt conversation.

By the time Christmas arrived, the church had touched many lives, their acts of service standing as a testament to what a dedicated, faith-filled community can achieve.

Featured in Northern Lights, January 9, 2025
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Center of Hope and Influence: 锘緼 New Era for Community Service in Hayward
Center of Hope and Influence: 锘緼 New Era for Community Service in Hayward 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On October 19, a five-year dream was realized as the Hayward Spanish Church unveiled its unique Center of Hope.

Led by Stennett Nash, pastor, and supported by Daniel Javes, Miriam Solman, Mary Len, Raquel Javes, and numerous dedicated volunteers, this vision was brought to life with generous funding from the Northern California Conference. The Center of Hope, a beacon of support, guidance, and connection, marks a significant expansion in how this faith community serves and uplifts Hayward and surrounding neighborhoods.

Nash expressed his commitment to the mission: 鈥淭he Center of Hope is not just a program. It is part of our church. This will be a beacon of support, guidance, and connection until Jesus comes. Our purpose is to offer a place where people find real hope, practical resources, and the love of Christ in every interaction.鈥�

The Center of Hope is dedicated to enhancing the community’s health, well-being, and prosperity. The well-established food bank is a vital resource, providing essential support to families in need. In addition, the Center will launch health outreach initiatives that leverage the area’s natural environment, including guided walks, cooking classes, and health fairs. Furthermore, the Center will offer Adult English Literacy and English as a Second Language classes, equipping participants with the skills necessary to secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Youth education is also a priority, with after-school tutoring for school-age children and teens fostering academic growth and self-confidence. Additionally, the Center will build a digital library for educational and personal development resources. Legal assistance and referrals to partner nonprofits will round out the Center鈥檚 offerings, ensuring comprehensive support for individuals and families in need.

During the dedication, Marc Woodson, president, shared his enthusiasm, stating, 鈥淥ne of our strategic anchors at 91大神 is community relevance, and the Center of Hope will be a transformative blessing for the Hayward community. This center mirrors the compassionate work of Jesus and allows us to be His hands and feet in the world.鈥�

The Center of Hope stands as a living testament to the power of unity, compassion, and faith. Through ongoing support and the unwavering dedication of its leaders and volunteers, the Hayward Spanish Church is shining a light on what it means to serve selflessly and transform lives, one neighbor at a time.

Featured in Northern Lights, November 7, 2024
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Auburn Dedicates New Shower Truck
Auburn Dedicates New Shower Truck 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Feb 3- The Auburn Church dedicated the addition of a new shower trailer to their Adventist Community Services program.

The new trailer replaces a unit that has been in service for sixteen years. Pam Haddad, director of Auburn Adventist Community Services, stated, 鈥淥ur new ACS showers have already served up to 52 unhoused individuals per week. It is an important resource for our community.鈥�

Each section of the four-bathroom unit has a shower, toilet, sink, and heated benches. Each user receives a kit with hygiene basics, including a toothbrush, soap, razor, and other amenities. A local crane company was employed to lift it over obstructions a few weeks before the dedication.

Cindy Gustafson, Placer County District Supervisor, is a key player in the Auburn ACS program, releasing $1,100 to fund clothing items that support this ministry. She praised the ACS addition by noting that faith-based contributions are vital to the Auburn community, serving those in need or impacted by local disasters.

James Lim, 91大神 Director of Community Services, praised, 鈥淭he dedication of a new shower trailer in the heart of Auburn will increase and improve the health and well-being of the local community. This trailer will be in action multiple times a week, ensuring essential hygiene for all. The Auburn ACS is making a difference, one shower at a time!鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, February 22, 2024
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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.

漏 2026 91大神 Conference聽| 2100 Douglas Blvd. Roseville, CA 95661 | P. O. Box 619015 Roseville, CA 95661-9015聽| (916) 886-5600 | info@nccsda.com

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