It is with sadness that we ask you to pray and support the Hawaii Conference, as wildfires are still ravaging Maui.  Reuters reports the death toll is up to 55 with many unaccounted for and billions of dollars in damage.

Hawaii conference has been affected too.  “Members have lost homes and are displaced; our church kitchen, parsonage, and part of the sanctuary are gone,” said Hawaii Conference President Erik VanDenburgh in his August 9 statement.  The conference is coordinating efforts to help members and students that have been affected by the fires. The photo above is taken from Hawaii Conference, displaying the yellow shirts that are "beacons of light" amidst the tragedy.

The need for housing, food, personal items, and even gasoline is great in Maui.  Giving financially is one of the best ways to provide immediate relief.  You can donate to the Maui Relief Fund by going to www.HawaiiSDA.com and donating there.  To stay up to date, follow the Hawaii Conference Facebook page.

We ask that you continue to keep our brothers and sisters in Hawaii in prayer.  Pray for God’s comfort, wisdom, protection, and provision during this time.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, Psalm 46:1.

March 13, 2026

RIVERSIDE, Calif.—On March 12, 2026, the Matheson Chapel on the campus of La Sierra University was filled with friends, family, and colleagues in celebration of Southeastern California Conference’s (SECC) very own Conference treasurer, Verlon Strauss.

Strauss, who has served as treasurer for nearly fifteen years was affirmed in his leadership that has been tangibly seen in numerous ways. This ordination is one of special recognition to highlight the evident ministry of an individual in a non-pastoral role. As treasurer, he upholds the Adventist church mission that assists the conference in accomplishing its mission and vision by modeling its values. In his service, Strauss has contributed his skills of accounting to ensure a financially healthy conference. 

Jonathan Park, conference president, and Patty Marruffo, executive secretary, expressed their appreciation and gratitude during the ordination service both affirming Strauss’ heart for ministry and pastor-like mentality.

The Southeastern California Conference is thrilled to acknowledge the ministry of Verlon Strauss through ordination.

Congratulations Verlon!

Alexy Mondak to Join the Redlands Seventh-day Adventist Church

March 2, 2026

RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—Southeastern California Conference (SECC) announces that Alexy Mondak, Summer Camp Director and Assistant Youth Director will join the Redlands Seventh-day Adventist Church as Associate Pastor beginning April 2026.

Mondak has been instrumental in leading the conference summer camp program alongside Executive Director of Pine Springs Ranch, Carmen Ibáñez. In her role as Assistant Youth Director, Mondak has also helped lead and oversee new events organized by the Youth department, which include the Young Adult Night, The Experience: a worship event for junior high students, and Bloom Conference for high school girls. Pastor Alexy has served in several conferences prior to joining SECC in June 2022. Her experience in clinical psychology from Southern Adventist University and Master of Arts in Youth and Young Adult Ministry at Andrews Theological Seminary has shaped her as a pastor. Currently, Mondak is working towards a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling.

As Mondak steps into a new season, the Conference expresses deep gratitude for her service and commitment to youth ministry.

Mark Ricalde Appointed Associate Youth Director

March 2, 2026

RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—Southeastern California Conference (SECC) is excited to announce Mark Ricalde as Associate Director for Youth and Young Adults, effective April 2026. This appointment follows the confirmation of the February Executive Committee meeting.

Ricalde is passionate about today’s young leaders and how they will shape the church of tomorrow. He has enjoyed working as a youth pastor, church planter, camp director, and academy chaplain. Ricalde holds a degree in religious studies from Burman University and a Master of Divinity from La Sierra University. He is married to Alina, a pediatric dentist. Together, they enjoy walks, spending time with friends, and hanging out with their cats, Daisy and Hamilton.

Pastor Mark joins the Youth department (SECC Youth) from his most-recent role as associate youth pastor at Crosswalk Redlands.

As Ricalde joins the SECC Youth team and our conference office family, please keep him and his family in prayer.

Congratulations Mark!

Safety Sabbath is happening March 28, 2026 this year. This year’s theme, “Preparedness That Fits Your Church,” encourages congregations to thoughtfully assess their unique risks, priorities, and ministry context before choosing the most meaningful safety drill. Register your church today and take a proactive step toward building confident, care-centered preparedness for your community.

The SECC Education Department presents: A Festival of Hymns. Come and enjoy an inspiring evening of sacred music featuring six academy choirs from across our Conference.

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Join Loma Linda University Church on a life-changing mission trip to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, Africa, from June 15-29, 2026. This two-week experience offers participants the opportunity to serve alongside local communities through outreach, ministry, and relationship-building while experiencing the rich culture and spiritual life of Kenya.

Registration is required, and payment and sign-up information can be found at ureachlluc.com/missions-2026.

Mesa Grande Academy will host its annual Golf Tournament May 3-6, 2026, as a fundraising event supporting the school’s mission and programs. The tournament brings together community members, alumni, families, and supporters for a day of golf, fellowship, and giving.

Participants may register as individual golfers or teams; sponsorship opportunities allow businesses and individuals to partner in supporting Christian education. Proceeds from the event directly benefit Mesa Grande Academy, helping to enhance student experiences and strengthen academic and extracurricular programs.

PRESS RELEASE: Anna Chung to Conclude Her Role at SECC Legal & Property Services

January 8, 2026

RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—The Southeastern California Conference (SECC) announces that Anna Chung, General Counsel for the Legal and Property Services Department, will be concluding her service with the conference following several years of dedicated leadership and counsel.

Since joining SECC in 2021, Chung has served as the Conference’s primary legal advisor, providing guidance on governance, compliance, risk management, and property matters affecting approximately 150 congregations, multiple boards, and the Conference’s educational institutions. Her work has included advising executive leadership and board committees, overseeing legal aspects of real estate transactions, developing employment and child protection policies, and coordinating with outside counsel and insurance partners to safeguard the Conference’s mission and operations.

Throughout her tenure, Chung was known for her diligence, integrity, and collaborative approach, offering steady counsel during complex legal and organizational matters. Her leadership played a key role in strengthening internal processes and ensuring responsible stewardship across departments and institutions.

As Chung steps into a new season, the Conference expresses deep gratitude for her faithful service and professional excellence. While transitions can be challenging, SECC remains confident in God’s continued guidance and provision for the work ahead. Her role will conclude January 15, 2026.

This announcement marks not an ending, but a transition, one made with appreciation for Chung’s contributions and prayers for God’s blessing as she moves forward.