91大神

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

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91大神 Leadership Announcement
91大神 Leadership Announcement 577 406 Ken Miller

Following the vote by the Constituency and approval by the Conference Executive Committee, the following leadership positions have been updated.

 

Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference
Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference 5142 3428 Ken Miller

By Laurie Trujillo, CFRE
91大神 Director of Communication and Development

Over the past few months, we have highlighted how our ministries work to fulfill the Northern California Conference鈥檚 purpose of connecting people to a more abundant life with Jesus and preparing for the Second Coming. This month, we asked: How does our school system achieve this mission? The answer was found in an unexpected place鈥攖he Pacific Union Conference Education Code.

What is the Education Code?

The Pacific Union Conference Education Code, adopted by the Northern California Conference, is more than a manual of operational policies鈥攊t鈥檚 a spirit-led, values-based framework designed to foster safe, nurturing, and spiritually grounded learning environments. Rooted in biblical principles, it governs every aspect of our school operations, including staffing, curriculum, financial stewardship, professional conduct, and student safety.

Ellen G. White once wrote, 鈥淭rue education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study… It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man鈥� (Education, p. 13). This holistic vision is reflected in the Education Code鈥檚 dual focus: protecting students and honoring educators.

Albert Miller, Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference (91大神), explains, 鈥淲e鈥檙e not just filling classrooms. We鈥檙e calling people to a ministry. Our educators are spiritually grounded and professionally equipped鈥攖rained not only to teach, but to mentor students into thoughtful, Christ-centered lives.鈥�

How Does the Education Code Protect the Children in Our Care?

It affirms student well-being through a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, aligning with 91大神 policy that requires immediate reporting of any suspected child abuse or neglect. Comprehensive screening and training鈥攊ncluding background checks and abuse prevention certifications鈥攁re mandated for all school personnel by 91大神 policy and supported by the Code.

To further safeguard students, schools must conduct regular safety audits, maintain effective emergency protocols, and create environments where students feel emotionally and physically secure. Grounded in Christian compassion, 91大神 holds all staff to the highest standards of integrity and respectful interaction. Confidential and accessible reporting mechanisms for students and their families ensure that every voice is heard, and every concern is taken seriously.

鈥淪afety goes beyond compliance,鈥� Miller says. 鈥淲hile we meet all of California鈥檚 legal requirements for working with children, for us, it鈥檚 more than legal鈥攊t鈥檚 deeply moral. We want every child to feel safe, seen, and loved.鈥�

How Does the Code Uphold the Dignity of Employees?

It safeguards the dignity of those called to teach. Investigations involving staff must be conducted in a confidential, fair, and impartial manner. Employees are guaranteed due process, including the right to respond, access support, and receive updates.

Its goal is to foster a professional culture of trust, transparency, and growth, emphasizing respectful communication and restorative practices. 鈥淲e don鈥檛 rush to judgment or jump to conclusions,鈥� Miller explains. “Clear expectations matter, but so does restoration.鈥�

How Impactful Are These Policies and Practices?

In today鈥檚 complex world, 91大神鈥檚 adoption of the Pacific Union Conference Education Code serves as both a shield and a compass, protecting the vulnerable and guiding educators in their sacred mission.

Recently, a student sent us a letter: 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 grow up Adventist and struggled in public school, never seeing much purpose in learning. That changed when I enrolled in an Adventist school near our new home. Expecting the same thing, I was surprised to be met with compassion, patience, and a teacher who helped me discover both Jesus and a love for learning. For the first time, I cared about school, found subjects I enjoyed, and began dreaming about the future with Jesus in my life. Even with severe ADHD, I feel accepted and respected. I look forward to attending the academy near my home.”

With 31 schools, more than 2,000 students, and over 200 educators, 91大神鈥檚 education system is the longest-running evangelistic effort in our territory. In 2024, school-age children and youth accounted for 18% of all 91大神 baptisms.

鈥淎dventist education is more than academics,鈥� Miller concludes. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about shaping lives鈥攐ne heart, one mind at a time鈥攆or this life and the life to come.鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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Ron Yabut, New Associate Ministerial Director
Ron Yabut, New Associate Ministerial Director 2400 3360 Ken Miller

In May, Pastor Ron Yabut was announced as the new Associate Ministerial Director for the 91大神.

With over 25 years of pastoral and chaplaincy experience, Yabut joined the 91大神 in 2022 as pastor of the Anderson Church.

Having ministered in Canada, the Philippines, and the U.S, he brings years of ministry experience, a deep love for people, and a heart for pastoral care.

Yabut stated, “When I was asked to make this change, I knew right away that God was leading me to something very important. The opportunity humbled me, and I am privileged to serve in this role, supporting our pastors and their families.

One of Ron鈥檚 favorite Bible verses is Micah 6:8鈥斺�淲hat does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.鈥�

He is joyfully married to Jennevi, his wife of 28 years, and they are blessed with three children: Alden, Ashley, and Aiden.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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Jaymes Cheney New Treasurer of 91大神
Jaymes Cheney New Treasurer of 91大神 1024 683 Ken Miller

Called to Serve: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Financial Leadership
By Laurie Trujillo

Some careers are built on opportunity. Others are shaped by calling. For Jaymes Cheney, it has been both. On May 7, the Conference Executive Committee elected Cheney as the next Northern California Conference Treasurer.

Born in Portland, Oregon, at what is now Adventist Health Portland, Jaymes grew up in Ridgefield, Washington. His parents modeled lifelong service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church鈥攈is mother, Carla, was a middle school teacher for 34 years at Meadow Glade Elementary School in Battle Ground, and his father, Leon, worked his entire career in plant services at Adventist Health Portland.

Jaymes married Brittany (Collins) Cheney, an attorney. Her parents, John and Rosemary Collins, served in education at Modesto Adventist Academy, Rio Lindo Academy, and Pacific Union College. Today, their children, William and Hannah, continue the family legacy at Sacramento Adventist Academy.

Northern California holds a special place in Cheney鈥檚 heart. His grandparents, Dr. Erwin and Wilda Walla, lived in Napa, where his mother and aunts were raised. He has fond memories of family road trips to visit them, summer days, holidays, and even attending his first baseball game in Oakland with his grandfather. These connections influenced his decision to attend Pacific Union College, where he earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in business administration and met Brittany.

After graduating from PUC, Jaymes joined Adventist Health in Roseville. Over the past 19 years, he has served in various financial leadership roles across Northern California, including at Adventist Health Feather River and St. Helena. He earned his CPA license and completed an MBA at UC Davis in 2015. Most recently, he helped lead system-wide accounting from the corporate office in Roseville.

Jaymes began sensing God鈥檚 call toward church service. That call became clearer as he has served on the Sacramento Adventist Academy Board and as an elder and deacon at Carmichael Church. He prayerfully stepped forward when he learned of John Rasmussen鈥檚 retirement from the Northern California Conference.

鈥淭his role brings together my passion for leadership, finance, education, and mission,鈥� he said. 鈥淪tewardship is not just accounting鈥攊t鈥檚 ministry in action. Churches, schools, and ministries are only as strong as the people who invest in them,鈥� he said. 鈥淟eadership is about trust and stewarding what God has placed in our hands鈥攔esources, relationships, and responsibilities.鈥�

As a CPA and financial professional, Jaymes understands that numbers tell a story. Beyond balance sheets are stories of students, families, and church members whose lives are touched by ministry. That excites him鈥攂uilding financial clarity so leaders can focus on their mission. His philosophy is simple: everything belongs to God. Tithes, offerings, and talents are sacred. 鈥淲hen resources are managed wisely, God multiplies. When we give freely, God blesses us with abundance. And when we lead with integrity, God is honored.鈥�

One of his favorite Bible verses, which took on special meaning for his family, is Philippians 4:6-7, 鈥淒o not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.鈥�

When he starts on June 30, Cheney is eager to visit 91大神 churches and schools, listen to their stories, and build strong relationships. 鈥淣orthern California is home,鈥� he said. We鈥檝e planted roots here, and I look forward to serving alongside our communities as we connect people to an abundant life in Jesus and prepare for His soon return.”

Featured in Northern Lights, May 12, 2025
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Did You Know? Ending Homelessness Initiative
Did You Know? Ending Homelessness Initiative 507 338 Ken Miller

The 91大神 Hispanic Women’s Ministry Team recently hosted the annual Women’s Retreat at Leoni Meadows.

More than 400 women sang, prayed, listened, and shared. Some came seeking restoration, others friendship, and community. The peaceful mountain setting offered a space for reflection, connection, and spiritual growth. One attendee shared, “It was excellent to see so many younger women this year. I think all left with a renewed sense of purpose鈥攖o God and one another.”

Florinda Guevara, Hispanic Women’s Ministry Coordinator, helped make the retreat a reality. She stated, 鈥淏eing part of a group of 400 women meeting in one place, enjoying each other’s companionship, praising God, and being prepared for the return of Jesus has been a joyful experience and a great source of inspiration.鈥�

She and her team have been working to empower women at the local church level, encouraging them to lead with compassion and courage. This annual retreat is part of their ongoing mission to nurture women鈥檚 spiritual lives and foster strong bonds within the Hispanic women’s faith community.

Featured in Northern Lights, May 1, 2025
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Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement
Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On April 7, over 200 educators and 130 pastors gathered at Gracepoint Church for the annual Mark Blue Lecture Series.

This year’s theme advanced the 91大神’s commitment to organizational health by concentrating on active engagement between employees, church members, and students. Keynote speaker Berit Von Pohle, Pacific Union Vice-President of Education, highlighted the value of positive leadership and offered many practical tools to help education and ministry professionals strengthen engagement.

Another spotlight during the event was an employee satisfaction survey by the Gallup organization. This online survey was emailed to all employees and completed on phones and laptops during a short break. This professionally designed and interpreted questionnaire will serve to measure 91大神 employee satisfaction, engagement, and other key categories.

Also highlighted was the need for collaboration between schools and churches to inspire future leaders. Presenters and audience discussed ways to engage young people in learning and service, creating a seamless connection between educational and spiritual development. With these strategies, schools and churches can build stronger, more unified teams, ultimately leading students and members to a more significant impact in their communities.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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A Night to Remember: 锘縏he First Annual 91大神 Advantage Awards
A Night to Remember: 锘縏he First Annual 91大神 Advantage Awards 3812 2785 Ken Miller

The evening of April 7 was a truly memorable occasion鈥攖he launch of the first annual 91大神 Advantage Awards program. This special event was created to further the concepts of organizational health by honoring outstanding educators and pastors across the Northern California Conference who live out the values that define our mission.

These values鈥擟ontagious Kindness, a Servant鈥檚 Heart, Passionate Hard Work, Engaged and Enthusiastic Leadership, Community Relevance, Mission-Driven Dedication, and Organizational Health鈥攁ren鈥檛 just ideals; they鈥檙e the everyday actions of those who serve with purpose and heart.

This evening was especially meaningful because each nominee was chosen by their peers through an anonymous ballot process鈥攁 testament to the respect and admiration they inspire within their communities.

Award winners were chosen from the nominees for each category and recognized with a beautifully crafted crystal award, symbolizing their achievement and unwavering commitment to service. Many shared moving words of gratitude, offering glimpses into the passion behind their work and the deep appreciation they hold for their students, church members, colleagues, and calling.

The Advantage Awards remind us that excellence is a powerful force when paired with humility and mission. Celebrating these faithful educators and pastors inspires us to continue building organizational health rooted in grace, leadership, and wholehearted dedication to God鈥檚 work.

Award Winners, Left to Right: Sasa Andelkovic, Walt Groff, Tim McMillen, Rick Nelson, Brad Geinger, Gina Wilmott, Steve Brownell, Lisa Bohman, Cyndi Westenrider, Bob Mason, Linda Lamb, Wendy Henry, Douglas Barahona, Jaime Calvo

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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Exploring the Life and Leadership of Eric C. Ward
Exploring the Life and Leadership of Eric C. Ward 940 788 Ken Miller

Pastor. Preacher. Teacher. Mentor. Leader. The late Eric Calvin Ward was all these and more鈥攁nd now, his extraordinary legacy is the subject of a compelling new biography written by 91大神 President, Marc K. Woodson.

The Spiritual Leadership Development of Eric C. Ward offers an inspiring look at one of Adventism’s gifted pastors of the twentieth century.

Drawing from years of research and personal reflection, Woodson traces the experiences that shaped Elder Ward鈥檚 remarkable ministry鈥攆rom his early calling to his dynamic evangelistic work and mentorship of future leaders. More than a biography, the book is a study in how spiritual leadership is formed over a lifetime of faith, service, and courage.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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John Rasmussen, 91大神 Treasurer Retires
John Rasmussen, 91大神 Treasurer Retires 1474 1967 Ken Miller

John Rasmussen retired on March 13, 2025, after 50 years of denominational service, including 31 years of dedicated leadership as the Northern California Conference Treasurer.

Before joining the 91大神, Rasmussen served seventeen years between the Montana, New Jersey, Potomac, and Washington conferences, joining the 91大神 in 1994. During Rasmussen鈥檚 tenure as Treasurer, he has worked with five conference presidents, starting with Don Schneider, 1989-1994 (Deceased).

His former presidents said the following about their time with Rasmussen:

Darold Retzer-President of 91大神 1994-2001

鈥淲hen I arrived as president, 91大神 was experiencing some challenging financial times due to the economy. John was already the treasurer, and we struggled to get a balanced budget. He worked with our team to accomplish this within a couple of years. He quietly and efficiently did his work. I enjoyed working with him. Toward the end of my time there, I especially enjoyed the time we took off to go skiing with him and Ricardo Graham. We were a good team.鈥�

Ricardo Graham-President 2002-2006

鈥淚 had the privilege of serving beside Elder John Rasmussen for 11 years in the Northern California Conference administration. Elder Rasmussen was dedicated to assisting the schools, churches, and their personnel by caring for their financial needs. John always respected others鈥� opinions and focused on protecting the financial strength of 91大神.聽His godly influence helped shape the work of God in 91大神, the Pacific Union, and the North American Division. I pray for God鈥檚 continued blessing on him and Raylene as he enters this new phase of life.鈥�

Jim Pederson-President 2006-2018

鈥淲hat a joy it was to serve with John. There were very few dull moments and many interesting discussions through the years. He is a man of integrity with a great sense of humor. The treasurer鈥檚 job is to sometimes say no, with an eye on the bottom line. John did say no many times in our years but also found many ways to say yes. This wisdom and commitment to the mission of God and the 91大神 made it a pleasure to work with him.鈥�

Marc K. Woodson-President 2018-Present

鈥淛ohn and I have worked together for seventeen years, and it has been a great time. John is a man of wit and wisdom and a great steward of God鈥檚 resources. I consider myself blessed for the time we have worked together. I often asked whether we could afford a ministry, and he would almost always find funding to make it happen. Our finances are in good order, a legacy of his core values and missional approach. His dedication and wisdom will be missed.鈥�

John and Raylene, his wife of 54 years, plan to spend more quality time with their children and grandchildren. They reside in Paradise, California.

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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

Cultivate Generosity

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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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