With a background in young adult ministry and marriage and family therapy, Isaac Kim steps fully into his role as Youth Director for the Southeastern California Conference (SECC). His appointment to the position followed confirmation of the August Executive Committee, effective September 2025. Kim succeeds Aren Rennacker, the former director, after five years of leading SECC Youth Ministries.  

Kim is no stranger to youth ministry or SECC. After more than two decades pastoring at the Calimesa Church, he joined the conference office in 2021 as Associate Director for Family & Children’s Ministries—a ministry area he continues to oversee as Youth Director.  

Originally from Georgia, Kim began his academic journey at Georgia State University before receiving the call to study religion at Southern Adventist University. He later earned his master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University, where he discovered how spiritual care and emotional health intersect in ministry. Working with young adults and families has always been a passion for Kim. “There’s a certain blessing that comes when you’re able to engage in the lives of people you worship and minister with,” he shared. 

Reflecting on his transition to the Youth department, Kim is focusing on the momentum the department has created. “Aren and I shared a vision that age-based ministries are cohesive,” he explained. “Strong children’s ministries build strong youth ministries, which then strengthen adult ministries. Ministry doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s intergenerational.” 

As Youth Director, Kim oversees SECC’s Family, Children’s, Youth, and Young Adult Ministries. The department supports local churches, Club Ministries, summer camp at Pine Springs Ranch, and works collaboratively with schools and pastors to nurture young people across all stages of faith development. 

Kim emphasizes the importance of connection and prayer. “We ask that our members pray for our youth,” he said. “They are the most valuable part of the Church. Anything we can do to support our local churches and extend ministry to the next generation matters.” Through his leadership, Kim hopes to strengthen connections between generations and ensure that young people not only belong in the Church today but help shape its future. 

1. Kim speaks to Adventurers, Pathfinders, and Master Guides at Club Ministries Fair. ↩︎
2. Kim and his two boys, Christian and Noah. ↩︎

For Danielle Berumen, ministry wasn’t part of her original plan. As a college student pursuing pre-medicine, she envisioned a career in the medical field working with children. But in the midst of long nights studying science and excelling in her religious studies courses at La Sierra University, she began to sense God leading her down an unexpected path.  

“One night I finally asked God, ‘What is Your will for my life?’” She recalled. “I felt this still, small voice say, I’ve been showing you all along.” From teaching youth Sabbath school classes in high school to preaching when invited by her academy chaplain, Berumen realized that God had been preparing her for pastoral ministry long before she recognized it. 

Her journey since then has taken her through several Southeastern California Conference (SECC) churches, serving at Azure Hills, Palm Springs, and Calimesa in roles ranging from youth and children’s pastor to interim sole pastor. Along the way, she was mentored and impacted by the ministry of too many pastors and professors to name them all, but she feels very grateful for the ways she has been supported and poured into over the course of her ministry. Each mentor reminded her that “people always come before the task,” a value that continues to shape her leadership today.  

Now, as Associate Ministerial Director for the SECC, Berumen steps into a new chapter, one that allows her to pastor pastors. “God was so clear in calling me here,” she said. “I know He’s doing something special in this season.”  

In her new role, Berumen will serve all the pastors of our Conference territory, while intentionally supporting young pastors, female pastors, and students of the Growing Young Leaders program. She hopes to create meaningful opportunities for fellowship and renewal through gatherings like Pastors Connect, where ministers can encourage one another and simply enjoy being together.  

Reflecting on Berumen’s appointment, Will Penick, ministerial director, shared, “Danielle brings a heart for people and a deep passion for encouraging pastors in their calling. Her ability to listen, empathize, and build genuine community will be a tremendous blessing to our ministerial team and the churches we serve.” 

When asked to summarize her ministry philosophy, she chose three words: service, presence, and encouragement. “I never imagined being a pastor,” she reflected, “but God knew this would bring me joy. My prayer is to stay responsive to the Spirit’s leading, and to help our pastors and churches reflect more of God’s kingdom here in Southeastern California.” 

1. SECC Executive Secretary, Patty Marrufo announces Berumen’s new role during the All Pastors Professional Development Day. ↩︎
2. Berumen and her husband, Manny, daughter, Eiza, and son, Judah. ↩︎

The Center for Discipleship and Evangelism is inviting pastors and church members across SECC to take part in a new discipleship experience: CDE Immersion.

This two-hour immersive gathering is designed to create intentional space for reflection, connection, and spiritual renewal, especially for those who feel stretched thin by the busyness of life and are longing for deeper faith formation.

Two identical experiences, two locations:
February 28, 2026 | Escondido Church | 4:30–6:30 PM
March 14, 2026 | Azure Hills Church | 4:30–6:30 PM

Whether for yourself or someone in your congregation who’s hungry for “more,” this experience offers a glimpse into the heart of what God is building through the Center for Discipleship and Evangelism.

This December, Kansas Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed the community to experience the timeless story of Christ’s birth through Unto Us: The Nativity Story, presented by KA Live! Drama Productions. Originally produced by LifeHouse Theater, the play was graciously shared with Kansas Avenue SDA Church through special arrangements that allowed the church to bring this meaningful production to life. Presented across four performances (December 6, 7, 13, & 14), the immersive production invited audiences of all ages to reflect on the hope, humility, and love found in the Nativity through music and storytelling.

The production starred Marissa Wright as Mary, whose heartfelt performance captured the faith and grace of a young woman chosen for an extraordinary calling. Aaron Yanez served as both director and visionary behind the whole production, bringing the story together with creativity and care. In addition to directing, Yanez also portrayed Joseph, offering a moving depiction of steadfast faith and quiet strength in times of confusion and questioning God.

Making the production possible was the dedication of the cast and crew, who committed to over 3 months of weekly rehearsals every weekend. Their faithfulness, teamwork, and passion were evident in every scene, reflecting a shared desire to tell the story of Jesus with excellence and purpose.

Through thoughtful staging, meaningful dialogue, and a spirit of worship, Unto Us reminded attendees of the true meaning of Christmas. The production emphasized the message that Jesus came for all—bringing light into the world and hope into every heart.

Kansas Avenue SDA Church is grateful to the cast, crew, and volunteers who made this production possible and helped create a memorable experience for families throughout the community.

“When I was in high school, I hated the church,” says Klenth Sasil, associate pastor at Moreno Hills Church. “I felt lost and empty, and I was really discouraged.” 

Sasil was born and raised in the Philippines by parents deeply involved in their local Adventist church. While they encouraged their children to follow in their footsteps, Sasil was uninterested. 

“At one point, a pastor I knew told me I had no future,” he recalls. “That hurt, but it also was a wakeup call. I realized what he said didn’t have to be true, but I would have to fight.” 

Over time, Sasil discovered that he was happiest when engaged in church life. He also noticed that the most joyful people he knew were pastors. “They don’t have much, and they are truly missionaries,” he explains. “But I saw the joy they had in serving. And that impacted me.” 

After graduating with a degree in theology, Sasil was assigned to Manila, Philippines, where he launched a young adult church plant called CAFE Life: Community, Authenticity, Friendship, and Experience. 

“We met in a coffee shop to hang out, discuss things, and just do life together,” Sasil explains. “That community grew, and it opened my heart for reaching the younger generations.” 

Later, after earning his Master of Divinity from the Adventist Seminary at Andrews University, Sasil faced an employment freeze across the North American Division due to COVID-19. The only work he could find was a two-week substitute teaching job in Oregon, which stretched into several months. 

“I wasn’t equipped to be a teacher, and some days it was just too much,” he admits. “But God helped me keep showing up, and over time He developed in me a heart especially for teens.” 

Eventually, Sasil accepted a call from the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) to serve as associate pastor for youth, young adults, and young families at Moreno Hills. Today, he draws from both his own rebellious teenage years and his experience working with teens to strengthen his ministry. He also remembers a challenge from a friend: to be the change he wanted to see in the church instead of simply walking away. 

Sasil was ordained on Sabbath, August 2, the same day his young daughter, Khloe was dedicated.  

“I believe in our church,” he says. “If, when I get to Heaven, I see that pastor who told me as a teen I didn’t have a future, I will thank him for opening my eyes and pushing me in the right direction, because becoming the change has changed me, too.” 

1. Sasil surrounded by family and friends. ↩︎
2. SECC Executive Secretary, Patty Marruffo presents the Ministerial Charge. ↩︎
3. Keziah Sasil (wife) expresses her gratitude to the congregation.  ↩︎
4. Elizer Sacay, SECC VP of Asian Pacific Ministries, leads the prayer of ordination. ↩︎

For five years, the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) Youth Department has hosted its annual Youth Leadership Convention, a space for leaders to worship, connect, and grow together. This year’s gathering, held September 12–13, 2025, was no exception. Since its start in 2020, the gathering has become a key weekend for training and inspiration. This year’s theme, “The Open Table,” reminded leaders that everyone has a place in God’s kingdom. 

SECC’s new Youth Director, Isaac Kim, shared that the theme came from Revelation 7:9— “we wanted our leaders to know that everybody is welcome to God’s table. God’s table is wide enough for people we may not expect, and we have a responsibility to care for them.” 

Assistant Director for Youth Media, Jared Gonzalez added, “The table means having open arms to all types of people in our communities. Our goal was to provide information that’s both empowering and relevant for ministry today.” Collaboration was key in making the weekend meaningful. “We rely on pastors, leaders, and volunteers to guide sessions and share expertise,” Kim added. Gonzalez highlighted the support of churches, youth pastors, and La Sierra University’s School of Business, noting that these partnerships created a smooth and engaging experience for attendees. 

Participants echoed the impact of the event. Janelle Baker, from 16th Street Church, said the theme reminded her of belonging: “A table is where we share and discuss life. It’s about community where we all feel comfortable.” She especially loved the Family Sabbath School workshop, calling it a simple, adaptable model that smaller churches could easily use. Alda Gomez, from San Ysidro Spanish Church, said his favorite breakout session focused on ChatGPT: “It showed how adults are also adapting to the tools we use—it was encouraging to see them embrace it with purpose.” 

When asked to capture the heart of the convention in one word, Gonzalez chose “empowerment,” while Kim chose “team.” Both pointed to the same truth: leaders don’t serve alone. With over 300 in attendance, The Open Table was not just a theme but a lived experience of unity, collaboration, and hope for the future of youth leadership. 

1. Pastor Mark Ricalde, Crosswalk youth pastor, leads a workshop in digital fluency and its impact.  ↩︎
2. In between break-out session's attendees would interact at the mini booths that provided different opportunity resources. ↩︎
3. Convention speaker for the weekend was SECC Black Ministries Vice President, Dr. Andrea King. ↩︎
4. Some SECC youth department staff leading out in worship during general session. ↩︎

For Pastor Kevin Kakazu, the journey into ministry was anything but expected. Growing up, he never imagined himself as a pastor. Reserved and soft-spoken, he assumed pastors were outgoing, charismatic personalities who thrived in the spotlight, qualities he believed that he lacked. By the time he entered Walla Walla University, his choice to major in theology was less about pursuing ministry and more about a love for Bible classes. He expected to eventually switch majors once he found his true calling.

But God had other plans. Professors began encouraging him to consider ministry more seriously. Though initially not picked up by a conference after graduation, a series of unexpected circumstances led him to his first position at the Sacramento Japanese church. What began as a temporary step soon became a lifelong journey, leading him through chaplaincy, teaching Greek and New Testament as an adjunct professor at La Sierra University, and ultimately pastoring.

Over the years, Kakazu has discovered that leadership requires making difficult decisions and standing by them. While his natural tendency was to avoid conflict or criticism, ministry taught him to accept responsibility during challenging times. He credits God’s sustaining grace for carrying him through seasons when the weight of responsibility felt overwhelming.

The most life-giving aspect of ministry, he says, is witnessing how God transforms difficult moments into blessings. Whether it’s a sermon he wrestled with in preparation or a painful story from his own life shared vulnerably from the pulpit, God has used his weakness to bring courage and healing to others. For him, this truth echoes the promise of 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My power is made perfect in weakness” (NIV).

Since 2018, Kakazu has served Mission Road church, building on the legacy of Pastor Dean Horinouchi, who for 22 years defined the church’s mission as “being the family of God to everyone.” As he reflects on his ordination, Kakazu expresses that he hopes when people walk through the doors of Mission Road, they feel welcomed into God’s family and experience the love of Jesus. For him, if that mission continues long after his ministry, it will be enough.

1. The Kakazu family encouraged through prayer. ↩︎
2. President Park hands Kakazu his certificate of ordination.  ↩︎
3. Kakazu with his wife, Amanda and son, Quinn. ↩︎

How does Jesus meet us where we are and lead us to where we are meant to be? This question, among many others, was explored by 220 high school students in the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) during the 12th annual OneLife Retreat. Held August 15–17 at Camp Cedar Falls, the weekend combined worship, presentations, prayer, and the signature “Jesus Experience”—student-led group discussions guided by a curriculum. But who designs this curriculum? Who are the people shaping the atmosphere and curating the themes behind the event?

While the conference oversees the OneLife retreats, the event is truly a collaboration of youth pastors from more than 20 churches. Each year, the planning team chooses a theme, invites a speaker, and discusses their individual responsibilities. Because the theme sets the direction for everything else, it is chosen first. How is it selected? Lindsey Haffner, youth pastor at Redlands church, explained: “The biggest question is, what do the students need? That’s two-fold: what do they perceive as their need, and what do we as pastors—who spend significant time with them—recognize as their deeper needs?”

This year’s theme, “Here and Beyond,” invited students to reflect deeply. Haffner, who helped create the Jesus Experience curriculum, posed questions such as: “How does Jesus meet you here, and what does that look like? How does He move us and propel us beyond what we can comprehend?” The curriculum drew on the biblical stories of Cornelius, Moses and the burning bush, Nicodemus, and the woman at the well. The main speaker was Aren Rennacker, newly appointed Pacific Union Conference Director of Growing Young Leaders.

With one of their core members absent, the youth pastors stepped up to take on greater responsibilities. “This year, it was especially youth-pastor led,” Haffner noted. “We took on more responsibility than usual, delegating tasks among ourselves. Because of that, the retreat felt more autonomous—and we were more invested in its success. It clarified that OneLife truly began, and continues, as the result of churches coming together.”

That sense of ownership extended to the students as well, inspiring them to take responsibility for their own faith—asking big questions and seeking answers in partnership with their church and with God.

Photo Credit Mikayla Rodriguez 

1. Students come together to create their group number. ↩︎
2. Rennacker speaks on the Here and Beyond.  ↩︎
3. Pastor George Tuyu from Azure Hills SDA church leads the kids in the next activity.   ↩︎

Photos provided by: Keith Bayeta