91大神

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91大神 Men鈥檚 Retreat Goes All In
91大神 Men鈥檚 Retreat Goes All In 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Men from across the Northern California Conference gathered recently for the 91大神 Christian Men鈥檚 Retreat, centered on the theme 鈥淎ll In, Men.鈥� Speaker Marty Miller invited participants to reflect on what full commitment to God looks like in everyday life鈥攁t home, in the church, and in the wider community.

Throughout the weekend, men worshiped together, participated in seminars, and engaged in conversations focused on practical, Bible-based discipleship and Christian character. The message of wholehearted commitment was echoed by Rudy Peters, 91大神 African American Ministries Coordinator, who shared, 鈥溾�楢ll-in men鈥� are ordinary men who have made an extraordinary decision鈥攖o give God their whole heart, their full devotion, and their unwavering commitment.鈥�

Time was also set aside for fellowship and connection, as attendees shared meals, built new relationships, and encouraged one another in their spiritual journeys. The retreat provided a steady rhythm of worship, learning, and conversation designed to support reflection and renewal.

Through gatherings like this annual retreat, the 91大神 Men鈥檚 Ministries Department continues to support men in growing as disciples and serving faithfully in their homes, churches, and communities.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 25, 2026
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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鈥檚 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 鈥淢rs. A,鈥� 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, 鈥淗e was always positive and energetic, rooted in a deep faith in God and infectious in his love of life.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, June 25, 2026
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Reencountering Jesus
Reencountering Jesus 4000 2250 Ken Miller

With nearly 500 women in attendance and the theme听鈥淎 Sus Pies鈥� (At His Feet), the Northern California Conference Hispanic Ministries Department held its annual Hispanic Women鈥檚 Ministries Retreat at Leoni Meadows.

Women from churches across the conference gathered for a weekend of worship, Bible study, and fellowship centered on developing a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Throughout the retreat, speakers encouraged attendees to bring every aspect of their lives to Christ and embrace the calling God has given them in ministry. Music, prayer, and small-group interactions provided opportunities for women to share their experiences and encourage one another in their faith.

Florinda听Guevara, director of Hispanic Women鈥檚 Ministries, shared, 鈥淭his was a time for reencountering Jesus, to celebrate His goodness and to once again learn about the special place Christian women have in ministry for our Lord.鈥�

Several women shared their testimonies of attending a Christian event for the first time and encountering Jesus in a personal way. Their stories became one of the highlights of the weekend and served as a reminder of God鈥檚 continuing work in the lives of those seeking Him.

Guevara听concluded, 鈥淓ach year, this retreat emphasizes the important role women play in sharing Christ鈥檚 love in their homes, churches, and communities.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, June 25, 2026
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Leslie Bartsch New Associate Superintendent of Schools
Leslie Bartsch New Associate Superintendent of Schools 3875 2012 Ken Miller

Leslie Bartsch听has accepted the position of Associate Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference, bringing nearly three decades of experience in Adventist education.

Originally planning a career in law, Bartsch studied history and political science at听La Sierra University. During her final year of college, a placement in a second-grade classroom shifted her trajectory. That experience clarified her calling to education, and after earning her teaching credential, she began teaching in Fontana in 1998.

Guided by a belief that every child can learn鈥攁nd that students develop at different paces and in different ways鈥擝artsch has built her career around supporting student growth and helping schools create environments where learning can take root. She joined Chico Oaks Adventist School in 2008 and became principal in 2018. The school also holds deep personal significance, with three generations of her family attending, including her sons, Wyatt and Conner.

In her new role, Bartsch plans to draw on her classroom and administrative experience to support principals and teachers across the Northern California Conference. Her focus remains on strengthening schools and continuing to serve students through strong, mission-centered leadership.

Patty Osborne, 91大神 Vice President of Education, shared, 鈥淟eslie is the perfect fit for our conference. She has earned trust everywhere she has served鈥攚ith her school families, her colleagues, and the principals who work alongside her. I couldn鈥檛 be more excited for our schools to have her support.鈥�

Leslie and her husband, Rob, whom she met while attending听Rio Lindo Adventist Academy, have been married for 29 years. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends

Featured in Northern Lights, June, 25 2026
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When Am I Too Old to Work for God?
When Am I Too Old to Work for God? 4000 2250 Ken Miller

By Rioboie Mabugay

There is a quiet question that often lingers in the hearts of many believers as the years go by: When is it time to step aside? After decades of service, sacrifice, and faithfulness, it can feel reasonable鈥攅ven deserved鈥攖o say, 鈥淚 have put in my time. Let someone else take over. I want to travel, rest, and enjoy what years I have left.鈥�

And yet, the kingdom of God does not measure usefulness the way the world does.

In 2018, Ruthe Levy was nominated to serve as treasurer of the Anderson church. It was not a short-term assignment nor was it symbolic. It was real responsibility鈥攏umbers, accountability, consistency. Now, eight years later, she still serves in that same role. This April, she turned 99 years old.

Every Monday morning, she gets into her car and drives herself to church. The journey is not effortless; it includes navigating nearly a mile of steep, winding road. Many would consider that reason enough to step down. But not Ruthe.
For her, this is not about obligation. It is mission. Her question has never been, 鈥淲hen can I stop?鈥� Instead, it is, 鈥淲hen will I have to stop because I am no longer able?鈥� That quiet difference speaks volumes.

In a culture that often equates aging with stepping back, the life of faith calls us to a different perspective. Scripture never assigns an expiration date to purpose. As long as there is breath, there is calling. As long as there is life, there is ministry.

God does not retire His workers. Moses was called at 80. Caleb, at 85, still asked for a mountain to conquer. Anna, well advanced in years, worshiped and witnessed daily in the temple. Time, in God鈥檚 hands, does not diminish usefulness鈥攊t refines it.

What Ruthe demonstrates is something deeply powerful: service is not about age but about willingness. It is not about how much strength we have left but about how much heart we still give.

Yes, seasons change. Responsibilities may shift. The body may slow. But the mission remains. There are always prayers to be offered, encouragement to be given, wisdom to be shared, and faith to be lived out before others.

We are reminded that the work of God is not sustained by youthful energy alone but by enduring devotion. And now, we stand on the edge of eternity with a hope that burns brighter than ever鈥擩esus is coming soon. This is not the time to withdraw from the mission but to lean into it with renewed purpose.

The question is not, 鈥淗ave I done enough?鈥濃�═he question is, 鈥淲hat can I still do?鈥�
Each of us has a role in preparing hearts for that day. Whether through quiet faithfulness like Ruthe or through visible leadership, every act of service matters. Every life surrendered to God becomes a testimony.

So when are we too old to work for God?
The answer is simple: when He calls us home.
Until then, the mission continues.

Featured in Northern Lights, May 21, 2026
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Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for 91大神.
Patrice (Patty) Osborne Named Vice President of Education for 91大神. 4000 2250 Ken Miller

When Patrice (Patty) Osborne reflects on her journey in Adventist education, it always comes back to a first-grade classroom鈥攁nd a teacher who saw something in her early on, 鈥淪he told me I needed to go into education,鈥� Osborne recalled. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a decision I have never regretted.鈥� 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鈥檚 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 91大神 Education Department.
A graduate of Andrews University, Osborne also holds a master鈥檚 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鈥攊ncluding twins鈥攕he 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. 鈥淚 would not be the Christian I am today without the influence of Adventist teachers,鈥� 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. 鈥淲hen I think about the extraordinary educators across this Conference, I am overwhelmed by the honor of being called to lead them,鈥� she shared. 鈥淭his is a sacred responsibility, and my commitment is to give my very best every single day.鈥�
She is equally passionate about the broader mission of Adventist education, 鈥淓ducation is one of the most powerful ways we can reach our communities,鈥� Osborne said. 鈥淚t allows us into the lives of families in a way that is natural and welcomed. Over time, you鈥檙e not just teaching鈥攜ou鈥檙e mentoring, guiding, and building relationships that can last a lifetime.鈥�
Leaders across the Pacific Union and 91大神 have affirmed her appointment.
James P. Willis, Pacific Union Conference Vice President for Education, noted,鈥淧atty is an outstanding educator who has significantly advanced the ministry of Adventist education. Her experience and preparation have equipped her well for this role.鈥�
Marc K. Woodson, 91大神 President, added, 鈥淧atty 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鈥攊t is about shaping lives for eternity.”
Now stepping into this new chapter, Osborne carries forward a lifelong calling鈥攐ne 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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Finding Common Ground in Yuba City
Finding Common Ground in Yuba City 2048 1536 Ken Miller

The Yuba City Church recently restarted a ministry for local families from the Punjabi community, drawing nearly 50 attendees鈥攊ncluding both Sikh and Christian households. The gathering offers a spiritual home where many first-generation residents can worship, learn, and connect with one another in a welcoming environment.

Yuba City is home to one of the largest Punjabi populations in the U.S., with many families settling over the past century to farming and support careers. Their long-standing presence gives the church a unique opportunity to connect with a community that is deeply woven into the region鈥檚 culture and daily life.

The weekly service at Yuba City Church is led by Aamir Masih, chaplain at Rideout Hospital and lay pastor. It is held in the church鈥檚 youth chapel, where services in Punjabi and space for families to worship together help create a welcoming environment. Masih, inspired by the warmth he received from the church upon his return to Yuba City, wanted to be part of their mission and subsequently, lead this ministry. 鈥淏y God鈥檚 grace, it has been wonderful,鈥� he said.

Daniel Garza, pastor, shared, 鈥淭he effort reflects something important about ministry today. Our community is diverse, and part of our calling is learning how to serve people in ways that make sense in their world. What began as a single Sabbath gathering is a daily reminder that being community relevant ministry is less about programs and more about relationships.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 2026
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Hayward Spanish Church Begins Relational Outreach in Union City
Hayward Spanish Church Begins Relational Outreach in Union City 3887 2016 Ken Miller

In March, members of the Hayward Spanish Church stepped into Union City with one goal: to lay the groundwork for a future church. Every visit, conversation, and act of service was part of building relationships that could grow into a thriving congregation.

Volunteers knocked on doors, listened to neighbors鈥� stories, shared meals, handed out literature, and prayed with residents鈥攎eeting real needs while planting seeds for the church. Youth and young adults led activities, guided conversations, and modeled kindness and a servant鈥檚 heart, showing the community that the church is present, caring, and ready to serve.

In advance the teams set up posters with messages of hope, invited residents to gatherings, and filled the streets with Christian music, creating spaces where neighbors felt welcome and engaged. The result? Residents opened up鈥攕ome asking for prayer for family health, others eager to join a Bible study, and a few expressing interests in community meals or youth programs. Several shared contact information, giving the team a path for follow-up and ongoing relationship-building.

“Seeing neighbors open up and share their needs reminded us why we serve together,”听said Stennett Nash, pastor of the Hayward Spanish Church.听“Every visit, every conversation, every act of service is a step toward planting a church here.“The day ended with new friendships formed, prayer requests collected, and a sense of hope for what鈥檚 to come鈥攁 first step in a journey that will continue as the church grows alongside the community it serves.

<em>Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 2026</em>

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Building a Block of Community
Building a Block of Community 3791 1962 Ken Miller

The Oakland Spanish Church recently led a community resource event that took over an entire city block. Residents had the chance to explore more than twenty booths offering practical support from community services, including the police department, social services, and city representatives. Some booths provided food, while others offered health screenings and wellness education.

Paul Guevara, 91大神 Hispanic Ministry Coordinator, shared, 鈥淭his event is part of the Oakland church鈥檚 ongoing plan to stay connected and relevant to the community. It was key in opening doors and strengthening collaboration between the church, the neighborhood, and the public and private services that support them.鈥�

Visitors engaged with local leaders, gathered valuable information, and participated in hands-on activities. The Oakland Emmanuel Temple Church brought its community health van, providing free screenings and guidance for anyone who stopped by. Food, supplies, and other essentials were offered throughout the day, creating an atmosphere of care and connection.

As neighbors moved from booth to booth, conversations and relationships developed naturally. By stepping forward as an active partner in the neighborhood鈥檚 network of services, the church demonstrated that it isn鈥檛 just present鈥攊t is proactive. That visible engagement helps the community see the church as a trusted, reliable force, building confidence that it will continue to serve and respond alongside other local leaders.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 23, 2026

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Student Leaders Training Student Leaders
Student Leaders Training Student Leaders 3875 2008 Ken Miller

The Northern California Conference Youth Department recently hosted its annual Freshman-Sophomore Retreat at Leoni Meadows, bringing together 375 students from our schools. The weekend offered more than just activities鈥攊t was designed to help students deepen their understanding of the truth found in biblical stories and develop new tools to apply that truth in their daily lives.

Guiding the retreat was a dedicated team of 58 juniors and seniors who had completed a two-day training with the youth ministry team. Eddie Heinrich, youth and young adult director, explained, 鈥淲e guide these leaders on how to engage with the younger students from the very first day, creating a steady progression of intimacy and reflection. By Sunday, the goal is to have fostered real, meaningful connections.鈥�

By the end of the weekend, students left equipped with not only a more in-depth understanding of the Bible but also strengthened skills and a renewed sense of purpose. Heinrich concluded, 鈥淥ur hope is that they return to their schools ready to demonstrate what they鈥檝e learned and model Christlike behavior with their classmates.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, March 26, 2026

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