91大神

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

Education

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Did You Know? 91大神 Education Department
Did You Know? 91大神 Education Department 4000 2258 Ken Miller

According to Albert Miller, 91大神 Education Superintendent, “Our department exists to serve the schools of the 91大神 by championing quality education rooted in faith. We walk alongside educators, leaders, and communities, offering the tools, training, and guidance to create safe, Christ-centered learning environments where students can grow academically and spiritually.”

Teachers are recruited for, and equipped with, ideals that match NAD standards. Over 200 teacher contracts are processed with care and compliance, and nearly 600 scholarships are awarded.

We attend monthly board meetings across 32 schools, offer strategic enrollment support, and maintain two student management systems with ongoing training. Our centralized job posting system and contract processes reflect our commitment to efficiency and transparency.

Support for this department means investing in a proven, Christ-centered model that prioritizes excellence, growth, and safety. Through thoughtful mentorship, strong governance, and strategic support, we鈥檙e building schools that shape lives. Every initiative is designed to uplift students, support teachers, and foster communities of faith鈥攖oday and into the future.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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PUC Hosts Academy Music Festival
PUC Hosts Academy Music Festival 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Over 200 students from 9 academies, including 91大神 schools Lodi, PUC Preparatory, Paradise, Pleasant Hill, Rio Lindo, and Ukiah Junior Academies, met at Pacific Union College for the 2025 Music Festival.

The musicians included high school musicians from the choir, strings, and band. Rachelle Berthelsen-Davis, music department chair and orchestra director, exclaimed, 鈥淭his weekend saw some excellent music making, and everybody had so much fun! The students were a wonderfully responsive group of musicians who rose to the occasion and did a wonderful job of bringing the music to life.鈥�

Musicians met for breakout sessions that included improving skills and techniques and practicing the music selected for the Sabbath evening concert. One concertgoer and student from PUC, shared, 鈥淚 am just impressed at the quality of music presented by our high-school children for this concert and Messiah during the last Christmas season.鈥�

Berthelsen praised, 鈥淏ravo to Becky St. Clair, administrative director, who made this event come to life, all the academy performers, teachers, parents, and my co-directors, Will DeWitt for the band, and Ronnie Zanella, who directed the choir.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, April 3, 2025
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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鈥檚 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聽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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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鈥攚here the congregation currently meets鈥攊nto a fully operational health clinic.

The clinic served 213 people, with聽100聽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, 鈥淲hen 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鈥檓 scheduled to get my teeth cleaned and then a massage. I feel loved and cared for!鈥�

The congregation wholeheartedly supports these outreach efforts, fostering a culture of generosity by giving their time and resources. The church鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 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!鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, March 20, 2025
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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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A Chorus of Faith: 锘�25 Years of Song and Sisterhood
A Chorus of Faith: 锘�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鈥攖o 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鈥檇 last seen each other. But the years melted away as soon as they stepped into the familiar hallways decorated with children鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥攂ut 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鈥攖hey 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, 91大神 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 91大神 Bible Conference
Young Leaders Shine at 91大神 Bible Conference 3844 2018 Ken Miller

Hundreds of 91大神 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鈥檛 just another retreat鈥攊t鈥檚 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鈥檛 just participate鈥攖hey 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.

鈥淭his was the best weekend of my life!鈥� one student leader shared, reflecting on the joy of connecting with younger students and watching their faith grow.聽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: 鈥淚鈥檓 thrilled to see our students stepping into leadership and mentoring their younger peers. It鈥檚 amazing to watch them share their faith and create a space where everyone feels valued and supported.鈥�

He continued, “The weekend wouldn鈥檛 have been possible without the support of the 91大神 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鈥檚 a reminder that our future is secured by God鈥檚 grace, power, and love.鈥�

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 91大神 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鈥攖he 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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Finding Faith in the Rearview Mirror
Finding Faith in the Rearview Mirror 4000 2250 Ken Miller

By Ken Miller

Many times in life, I鈥檝e experienced 鈥淢oses Moments.鈥� Like the Old Testament hero, I鈥檝e argued with God about my abilities, ignored signs of His guidance, and even tried hiding in the desert. In weaker moments, I may have struck a rock or two.

This struggle often leaves me identifying more as an ordinary Israelite, trudging through deep sand with an ox and a bundle of possessions, unsure of my location, or direction.

During moments of doubt and lapses in confidence, my mother’s words flood back: 鈥淲hen you don’t see where God is leading, find faith in the path you鈥檝e traveled. Remember what He has brought you through.鈥� This advice jolts me, and I draw strength and joy from its simplicity.

My mom鈥檚 wisdom also helps when I wonder where the church is, and where it’s headed. Writing weekly stories from our schools and churches fills me with confidence in our journey together. It reminds me of the massive effect our loving, dedicated members have in their communities, helping me locate where we are, our direction, and who our leader is.

Our collective efforts are woven together through dental outreach, bowling with refugees, school mission trips, evangelism, and serving the hungry鈥攂eing the hands and feet of Christ. We are members of a caravan led by the author of Love.

If you ever wonder where we are going, be encouraged to adjust your rearview mirror and find faith and location from the path we鈥檝e traveled. Below are ministry highlights from 2024, showing the diversity of how and where we serve. Full stories are linked.

Four Lodi Academy Students Embrace Their Faith
In a touching moment at Lodi English Oaks Church, four students from Lodi Academy publicly declared their faith through baptism. Pastor Manny Gonzales reflected on the importance of collaboration between the school and church in nurturing these young believers. One parent, moved by the paraphrase of Matthew 3:17, shed tears, reminded of God鈥檚 unwavering love for His children.

Auburn Church Shares Hope Through Showers
The Auburn Church dedicated a new shower trailer to serve those in need, replacing their 16-year-old unit. Each week, 52 individuals find not only cleanliness but also care. A generous donation ensured that guests also have access to fresh clothing, extending the church鈥檚 compassion even further.

Delta Convocation Unites Hundreds
Nearly 900 worshippers gathered for the Delta Area Convocation, an event Pastor Tracy Baerg described as a “spiritual camp meeting.” The sanctuary overflowed with unity as attendees worshipped, prompting one attendee to call it a glimpse of heaven.

Empowering Young Adults for Religious Liberty
At the Religious Liberty Summit, Dwight Nelson challenged young adults to advocate for freedom with love. To be courageous and compassionate. The summit inspired attendees to carry these principles back into their communities.

Healing Hearts Through Mental Health Support
The 91大神 Education Department provides free professional counseling to students, fostering both emotional and spiritual growth and affirming the church鈥檚 commitment to holistic education.

Mission Trip to Panama
Granite Bay Hilltop Church’s mission trip to Panama brought healing and hope to the region. Through clinics, construction, and prayer, they united hearts, positively impacting 1,750 lives with Christ鈥檚 love.

A New Center of Hope in Hayward
The Hayward Spanish Church opened its Center of Hope to serve as a beacon for the community. Pastor Stennett Nash expressed, 鈥淭his is God鈥檚 gift to our city鈥攁 place for everyone to find help and hope.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, January 16, 2025
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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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