91大神

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

Youth

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Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Eddie Heinrich directs the 91大神’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries Department, which is devoted to guiding young people into a deeper relationship with Jesus and helping them grow in faith, purpose, and service.

Youth Ministries include retreats, camps, and gatherings offer spaces where young hearts are strengthened, friendships are formed, and faith takes root. Summer on the Run brings joy and spiritual connection to children, many of whom encounter the love of Christ for the first time. Programs like Team Bible Academy invite youth to explore Scripture and grow together in understanding and trust.

Young adults are stepping into leadership through evangelistic efforts and community outreach, discovering what serving with compassion and courage means. Retreats help them build healthy, Christ-centered relationships and deepen their walk with God.

Pathfinders continue to grow through hands-on service, leadership training, and events that foster teamwork and commitment. These experiences prepare them not just for ministry but for life.

The department walks alongside local churches, supporting pastors and leaders with training, resources, and encouragement. Campus ministries, urban outreach, and cultural partnerships extend the church鈥檚 mission beyond its walls.

Each life touched鈥攚hether through a campfire prayer, a mission trip, or a food fair鈥攔eflects the heart of this ministry. Continued support means these efforts will continue to plant seeds of faith, raise leaders, and build a future full of hope and purpose.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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  • Ken Miller
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Serving Side by Side in Kimogoro, Kenya
Serving Side by Side in Kimogoro, Kenya 4000 2250 Ken Miller

During spring break, 56 children, youth, and adults from the 91大神 traveled to Kimogoro, Kenya, to serve, connect, and learn alongside the students and families of the rural Adventist boarding school.

Kimogoro is located in the lush, tea-covered hills of central Kenya. The school is home to 384 students from kindergarten through the ninth grade. Most students live on campus during the school term, while their families live in nearby villages.

Access to basic supplies and services is limited; even simple tasks and supplies can require hours of travel by foot or motorcycle. 鈥淥ne of the gifts donated by the group was a computer and printer,鈥� said Eddie Heinrich,91大神 Youth Director. 鈥淭his common tool that we take for granted daily will allow the principal and teachers to print tests and other important documents, a task that would require hours of travel to get copies from town.鈥�

In addition to delivering school and clothing supplies, the team worked alongside local builders to complete two new classrooms. Another group led Vacation Bible School, where children worshipped, played games, and made crafts. In the same spirit of care, eye exams were given, and 500 pairs of eyeglasses were distributed to students and village members鈥攔estoring clear vision for many.

One of the most moving moments came during the distribution of food items.

鈥淲e were able to purchase hundreds of eggs in town and give them to the school,鈥� Heinrich recalled. 鈥淭his simple food item is a rare delicacy for the school to supply. Most daily meals consist of millet and other simple items. When the eggs were handed out, a small girl approached me. She held out her hand with her one egg and asked if I would like to eat it. At that moment, I witnessed the widow鈥檚 mite鈥攁nd heard Jesus’ words, 鈥�…She has given more than anyone else鈥︹�欌��

The experience left a lasting impact on both the Kimogoro community and the 91大神 team. While the group came to serve, they also received. Janeen Little, pastor of the Tracy Church, shared, 鈥淚t was incredible to see our kids meet Jesus and commit to Him. In the midst of many challenges during the trip, they were resilient and insistent on having fun! God is still on the move, and this generation is following Him to the promised land!鈥�

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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  • Ken Miller
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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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  • Ken Miller
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Pedal Power and City Smarts
Pedal Power and City Smarts 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Hundreds of Adventurers learned how to navigate busy city streets of “Sacramento” at the annual 91大神 Adventurer Bike Derby, held this year at Safetyville USA.

This kid-sized miniature city, full of stoplights, stop signs, railroad crossings, left-turn lanes, and life-like settings, was perfect to give kids a chance to ride their bikes and learn about traffic safety. Children representing more than 25 different Adventurer clubs rode for hours, while volunteers from clubs sold delicious food and snacks to hungry children and parents alike.

In previous years, the Bike Derby was held on the Sacramento Adventist Academy track, where children rode as many laps as they could. This year, however, was an experiment to try a different setting, with an emphasis on learning the rules of the road and being safe in a city setting. Based on the positive feedback from many club directors, Adventurers may alternate between the two venues to maximize opportunities for all kinds of riders.

If your church does nto currently have an Adventurer Club and you’re thinking about establishing one, don’t hesitate to contact Barry van Iderstein in the 91大神 Children’s Ministries Department for a consultation!

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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  • Ken Miller
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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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  • Ken Miller
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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 91大神 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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  • Ken Miller
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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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  • Ken Miller
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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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  • Ken Miller
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Mountain of Miracles
Mountain of Miracles 3791 1962 Ken Miller

The 91大神 headquarters buzzed with excitement as nearly 100 church leaders and volunteers gathered on February 1, 2025, to preview this summer鈥檚 brand-new Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, Mountain of Miracles.

Hosted by Barry van Iderstein, 91大神 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鈥檚 new mascot, who stole everyone鈥檚 hearts.

Rainy came to life through Barry鈥檚 8-year-old daughter, Libby, who eagerly flapped her wings and waddled around. “It鈥檚 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鈥檚 story, kids will discover how God is always with us鈥攑roviding, guiding, and showing His love in unexpected ways.

If your church missed the workshop, it鈥檚 not too late! Everything you need鈥攆rom curriculum to decorations鈥攃an be found , or by contacting Barry van Iderstein by email.

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

Featured in Northern Lights, March 6, 2025
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  • Ken Miller
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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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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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