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.
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.
Loma Linda University Church 65+ Fall Festival Brings Joy, Laughter, and Community
On Sunday, November 2, 2025 Loma Linda University Church (LLUC) hosted its annual 65+ Fall Festival, a heartwarming afternoon that brought together senior members of the community for an unforgettable celebration of laughter, creativity, and fellowship.
From 1–4 p.m., LLUC fellowship hall and courtyard came alive with a carnival-inspired atmosphere, complete with colorful decorations, joyful chatter, and plenty of activities to enjoy. Guests tested their luck and skill at mini games like Bingo and other lighthearted challenges that sparked friendly competition and lots of smiles.
One of the highlights of the day was the pie contest, where participants showcased their best homemade creations. Attendees savored each slice before voting for their favorite, making the friendly rivalry even sweeter. Nearby, a pumpkin painting station encouraged creativity as guests decorated pumpkins to take home as festive keepsakes.
As the afternoon unfolded, the energy remained high with laughter and conversation filling the space. At 3 p.m., the excitement peaked with the raffle drawing, where several attendees walked away with fun prizes. To top it all off, guests enjoyed delicious food and seasonal treats that perfectly captured the spirit of autumn.
A particularly touching moment came when one attendee shared, “Wow, I usually only leave the house for church on Friday night and Sabbath morning. I pretty much stay at home. But this space just for seniors really cheered my spirit.” Her words were a moving reminder of the event’s purpose, to create spaces of community, joy, and belonging for our senior members.
The success of the 65+ Fall Festival was made possible thanks to the dedicated LLUC volunteers and greeters whose kindness and enthusiasm created a welcoming environment for all. Their teamwork ensured that every guest felt seen, celebrated, and loved.
As the afternoon came to a close, one thing was clear, the festival was more than just an event; it was a celebration of connection, gratitude, and the beauty of sharing life’s simple joys together.
Photos provided by: Keith Bayeta
After more than a decade, the world-renowned Aeolians of Oakwood University have returned to Southern California—sharing their signature blend of faith, harmony, and excellence in worship. Under the direction of Jeremy Jordan, now in his fourth year as director, the choir embarked on this long-awaited tour inspired by a desire to reconnect with west coast congregations and participate in the National Collegiate Choral Organization (NCCO) Conference, where they were invited to perform.
“Our theme this year is ‘Ask for More,’” said Jordan. “We want people to remember that we serve a God with unlimited resources—so whether it’s peace, strength, or faith, don’t be afraid to ask Him for more.” This message guided the choir’s performances at venues where their dynamic sound filled their sanctuaries like Mt. Rubidoux SDA Church and Loma Linda University Church, with joy and reflection.
For Madison Evans, a junior and the 33rd Miss Oakwood University, the tour is both ministry and mission. “I hope the audience can take a moment to step back from life’s stress and just be filled with joy and hope,” she shared. Her favorite piece, “How Great Thou Art,” reminds her of God’s timeless goodness.
Veteran accompanist Dr. Wayne Bucknor, who has played for generations of Aeolians, reflected on his enduring passion: “It’s a blessing to see new students each year and to witness how the music continues to bless others.”
With a legacy rooted in excellence and a message centered on faith, the Aeolians continue to inspire audiences to ask for more; of God’s grace, purpose, and love.
On October 11, 2025, more than 350 guests gathered at OC Grace SDA Church for the All Nations International Food Fair—a young adult–led event where culture meets compassion. Designed to bring people of all backgrounds together through food, music, and service, the fair continues to prove that helping others can be both joyful and community-driven.
From the moment guests arrived, the church parking lot was transformed into a vibrant marketplace filled with the aroma of global cuisine, colorful decorations, and the sound of laughter and live music. Each booth, carefully decorated by volunteers, represented a different country and culture—offering authentic dishes, desserts, and drinks from around the world.
Attendees traveled from table to table sampling flavors representing 15 countries, including:
Beyond the food, the evening came alive through performances that celebrated the beauty of cultural expression. From the rhythmic energy of Polynesian dance to the grace of Chinese and Indian performances, each act reflected the creativity and pride of its community. Musicians and dancers from across Southern California shared their talents, inviting the audience to not only watch but join in the celebration of each of their cultures.
What began as a heartfelt response to global crises has evolved into a growing movement of compassion and connection. The event brought together volunteers from various churches, local high schools, and community groups from all over Orange County and Los Angeles area. The All Nations International Food Fair was first launched in 2023 by a team of young adults from the OCGCYA community who wanted to do something tangible for people affected by worldwide tragedies. In its first year, the event raised $7,000 for Türkiye-Syria earthquake relief. The following year, it brought in $6,600 to aid families in Gaza and surrounding areas. This year, the fair raised an additional $7,505 to support ADRA humanitarian relief for families in Congo—bringing the total impact to more than $21K in just three years.
While the donations are significant, the heart of the event goes beyond the numbers. Each booth, performance, and conversation serves as a reminder that compassion transcends borders. “It’s more than just a food fair,” one volunteer shared. “It’s a chance for people to come together, learn about one another, and make a difference—no matter where they come from.”
Each year, this vibrant gathering reminds attendees that when all nations come together, change happens—one meal, one song, and one act of compassion at a time.
To find out more and/or donate click here.
Dear Southeastern California Conference members,
It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Pastor Cami B. Cruz Jiménez, who peacefully went to rest on September 23, 2025, at the age of 87. Cruz was known for his unwavering dedication to the Seventh-day Adventist Church and his lifelong commitment to ministry, education, and leadership.
For over five decades, he served with integrity and humility as an evangelist and preacher, with 14 of those years serving the Southeastern California Conference as senior head auditor. His legacy reflects a deep passion for sharing God’s message and strengthening the institutions that shaped generations of Adventist believers. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He is survived by his three children, Alba, Abel, and Brunilda; along with his granddaughters, Joaly, Kiana, and Jasmine; his grandsons, Kelly and Gabriel; and his great-granddaughter, Evani. We are deeply grateful for Pastor Cruz and his many faithful years of service to the Southeastern California Conference and his commitment to ministry. All are welcome to join the family at his memorial service in November.
The family kindly asks that you RSVP if you plan to attend by October 28, 2025.
Service information for Pastor Cruz as follows:
Celebration Service
Saturday, November 8, 2025 | 3:00 – 4:30pm
Avon Park SDA Church; Avon Park, FL
Fellowship Dinner
Saturday, November 8, 2025 | 5:00 – 7:00pm
Avon Park SDA Church; Avon Park, FL
For more information, visit: Cruz Memorial Service Details
Livestream: Avon Park SDA Livestream
On October 25, 2025, the And It Was Good: Art Extravaganza, hosted by the Moreno Hills Church team, brought together an inspiring blend of art, music, worship, and community connection. Designed to highlight the beauty of creativity as a reflection of God’s image, the event invited attendees to engage their senses and spirits through a variety of artistic expressions.
The evening unfolded with creative jam sessions, followed by a moving worship program that set a heartfelt tone for the night. As the sun set, the Night Market came alive—filled with local young artisans, live performances, and interactive booths that turned the church campus into a vibrant hub of creativity and fellowship.
Although 271 attendees registered online, the turnout far exceeded expectations with over 370 raffle tickets distributed, bringing the estimated attendance to nearly 400 people. The lively atmosphere was amplified by live music from Hunnybunch and The 9:25 Band, a captivating Rhythm n Flow dance performance, and a live podcast interview featuring young creatives who shared their perspectives on faith, purpose, and artistic calling.
From start to finish, And It Was Good captured the heart of creative worship—reminding all who attended that art is not only a form of expression but also an act of praise. The event beautifully showcased how, when faith and creativity meet, we can truly experience God’s creative genius in a whole new way.
On September 27, 2025, the Loma Linda Indonesian SDA Church gathered for a historic day of gratitude and celebration. The congregation held a mortgage burning ceremony, marking the payoff of their church loan and celebrating the blessing of financial freedom.
The milestone was honored through a special dedication and consecration service, followed by a joyful fellowship potluck.
Centered on the theme “Milestone of Mercy, Memories of Mission” (1 Samuel 7:12), the service highlighted God’s faithfulness in sustaining the church and the dedication of members who poured their time, resources, and prayers into building not just a sanctuary, but a spiritual home. Patty Marruffo Southeastern California Conference (SECC) Executive Secretary, shared words of encouragement, rejoicing with the congregation in this achievement and offering prayers for continued blessings. The main message during the morning service was shared by Elder and SECC Vice President of Asian Pacific Ministries, Elizer Sacay.
It was a day filled with gratitude, joy, and hope, as the Loma Linda Indonesian Church looked back on God’s provision and forward to the ongoing ministry and mission ahead.
On April 5, 2025, a milestone day for both her life and the wider church community, Pastor Melinda Mauia was ordained to the gospel ministry—a moment she describes as a profound gift from God and a historic breakthrough for Samoan women in pastoral leadership.
Mauia’s journey to this moment has been one of perseverance, faith, and resilience. Raised in a Seventh-day Adventist pastoral family, she witnessed the dedication and sacrifices of ministry from an early age. Yet, her path was far from straightforward. After seasons of personal struggle and spiritual searching, she found her footing through Yucaipa Youth Ministries and missional discipleship. Those early experiences ignited her passion for service and led her to Andrews University, where she overcame academic challenges to earn both a bachelor's degree in theology and later a Master of Divinity in 2014.
Though doors to pastoral ministry did not open immediately, God redirected her path in unexpected ways. From teaching and coordinating in South Korea to serving in San Francisco and completing Clinical Pastoral Education in Loma Linda, Mauia gained deep experience in trauma care, cross-cultural ministry, and spiritual leadership. In 2021, she accepted the call to serve in the Santa Ana Samoan Church and New Hope Samoan Company, where she has faithfully led with humility and courage.
As a Samoan woman in ministry, Mauia has faced both cultural and gender-based challenges. “Sometimes my brothers could say the same thing I was saying, but it would be more readily accepted because of gender,” she reflects. Yet, she has learned to meet these moments with love, rooted in her Samoan upbringing and her calling to shepherd her people as a spiritual mother.
The ordination service carried the theme “I trust in God my Savior—He will never fail.” Surrounded by family, church members, and mentors, Mauia experienced the peace of God’s affirmation. A deeply personal highlight came when her father prayed the ordination prayer over her ministry, sealing the moment with family legacy and blessing.
Her ordination is also a historic first: she is believed to be the first Samoan female pastor ordained by a Samoan church—a glass ceiling broken for future generations. “I may be the first, but I won’t be the last,” she says. With gratitude to her family, community, and conference, Mauia continues to lead with compassion, determination, and unwavering trust in God who has guided her every step.
73 Years Young, 50 States Strong
By Jordyn Wright & Taji Saleem
At 73 years old, Pastor Ron Du Preez, senior pastor of the Beaumont Seventh-day Adventist Church, set out on a remarkable journey: walking (and sometimes cycling) 50 kilometers a day in 50 states over 50 consecutive days. Aptly titled Senior Strides, the initiative was far more than a physical feat—it was a mission to inspire health, faith, and community among seniors nationwide.
Starting in Hawaii on May 15 and finishing just before sunrise on July 4 at the General Conference Session (GC Session), Du Preez’s journey captivated both local communities and national media. At each stop, he visited senior centers, offering motivational talks, and personal encouragement. “People don’t respond to the ordinary anymore,” he shared. “But when they hear 50K a day for 50 days, they ask, ‘Why?’ That’s when I can share the mission: to energize and empower those over 65 to engage in fitness in a fun and friendly way.”
This is not the first time Du Preez has used fitness to build community. A story on the beginnings of his Senior Strides running group, local to Beaumont, was published in the January 2025 Recorder. This time, Du Preez chose to walk and cycle—making his journey more relatable and inclusive. In between walking and indoor cycling, he juggled logistics, coordinated with centers, and made time to connect deeply with seniors, often praying with them or gifting personalized books like The Great Controversy and The Ministry of Healing.
At the 62nd GC Session, Du Preez was invited to give a special presentation, sharing his experiences, and the impact the journey had on both himself and the communities he visited. This great feat garnered the attraction of Miami Dolphins running back, Alexander Mattison, and local news stations. Showing him support, the news stories reached thousands across Indiana, Michigan, and Southern New England.
Throughout the journey, Du Preez promoted a wholistic health message rooted in the Adventist lifestyle—encouraging movement, plant-based eating, rest, and spiritual well-being. "Stronger legs, longer life," he quoted from a Time article published during his trek. “Physical health strengthens your mental, social, and spiritual life.”
For Du Preez, Senior Strides wasn't just about miles—it was about momentum. “No matter your age or stage,” he concluded, “you can improve your health, bless others, and live the abundant life God intended.” You can learn more at seniorstrides.org.
