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.
“If I could summarize this journey, it’s simply about gratitude,” said Pastor Isaac Lee. “God and His people have affirmed this calling, and I don’t take that lightly.”
Lee was ordained to the gospel ministry at Yorba Linda Seventh-day Adventist Church in late March. He currently serves as executive and associate pastor, working with every department and focusing specifically on youth, collegiate, and young adult ministries. He began serving at Yorba Linda in November 2023.
His ministry began in 2009 as a part-time pastor at Fort Lee SDA Church in New Jersey. But the calling started even earlier — before he even knew it.
“My parents dedicated me to God to be a pastor,” he shared. “But they didn’t tell me that until I had already made the decision on my own.”
That quiet thread of providence has woven itself throughout his ministry journey. After seminary at Andrews University — where he earned both his undergraduate and Master of Divinity degrees — he received his first full-time call and served churches across the country.
One of the most defining chapters came after leaving Loma Linda Korean SDA Church. As he sought God's direction for his next step, he received offers from 8 to 10 churches across North America. But one offer stood out, not because it made sense, but because it moved his heart.
“Queens, New York, offered the lowest pay, no service credit, no insurance. It made no logical sense,” he said. “But I was moved with compassion for my people.”
What happened next stunned even him. Despite the Greater New York Conference’s typical policy against granting service credit for local hires, he was given four years of credit — double what he would have earned elsewhere.
“When I told the church members, they wept with me,” he recalled. “It was impossible. But God had a plan.”
Fifteen years since his first pastoral assignment, Pastor Lee says his ordination is not a marker of his worth, but of God’s faithfulness.
“There’s nothing about me that I can boast in,” he said. “Only that Christ chose to use a sinner like me. If anyone sees anything good, it’s just Him working through me.”
Now, settled into his ministry in Orange County, he’s prayerful for what’s ahead: “This is a new chapter — a balance between work and personal life, maybe even preparing for family. But as always, I’m just waiting and listening upon the Lord.”
Congratulations to Pastor Lee!
For Immediate Release- Statement by Southeastern California Conference regarding the Gospel and the value of human life.
This statement is available for download in both English and Spanish. An additional document entitled, “Compassion in Action Resources” is also provided in supplement that contains practical ideas for churches and ministries to support immigrant communities.
Statement on the Gospel and the Value of Human Life
July 17, 2025
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.— The Southeastern California Conference (SECC) is privileged to serve nearly 70,000 members across five counties in Southern California. Our region is characterized by rich diversity in language, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background—a reflection, we believe, of the prophetic vision in Revelation 7:9, where “a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people and language” stands united in worship before the throne of God. We acknowledge that the challenges affecting one community may not affect others in the same way. Yet in this diversity, we find a sacred opportunity for deeper understanding, compassion, and shared mission.
At a time when polarization threatens to divide communities, we are reminded of the sovereignty of Christ, in whom “all things hold together” (Col 1:17). It is Christ who unites us—and who teaches us that we will always find Him among the vulnerable and the marginalized (Mat 25:40). In light of increased immigration enforcement activities and the resulting fear felt by members and neighbors in some of our congregations, we affirm the North American Division’s (NAD) “Appeal for Human Dignity and Decency,” as well as the statements of our sister conferences. We reject the notion that one’s value is determined by immigration status; rather, we uphold that every human being is created in the image of God (Gen 1:27) and is endowed with inherent worth and dignity. This affirmation does not negate the importance of upholding the laws of the United States. Rather, we join our sister conferences in calling for immigration policies that are both just and compassionate—honoring the law while upholding the sanctity of human life.
The current climate presents a growing challenge to our mission: to proclaim the everlasting gospel within our cross-cultural territories. As pastors, educators, members, and neighbors experience direct and indirect consequences, we are compelled to speak out with both clarity and compassion. Scripture calls us to care for the foreigner among us, treating them as our own (Lev 19:34). We echo the NAD’s conviction that “dehumanization through exclusion or fear contradicts biblical teaching” (Fundamental Belief No. 14). We urge that the language and rhetoric surrounding immigrants and refugees refrain from vilifying those who are seeking a better life.
We remain committed to fostering church and school environments that are safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all regardless of immigration status. We understand that in-person worship may not feel secure for everyone at this time, and we invite those affected to remain connected with us through online community and ministry.
SECC will continue to equip and support our leaders and congregations by providing resources, training, and pastoral care to meet the needs of all who seek it. We pray that God’s perfect love will provide the presence needed to face and overcome fear (1 Jn 4:18), and that each person would experience the truth of Ephesians 2:19, 22—that we are no longer strangers and aliens, but fellow citizens and members of God’s household, being built together into a dwelling place for His Spirit.
May we, as a body of believers, embody the hope, healing, and justice of the gospel in our words and in our witness.
Signed,
SECC Administration
This statement was voted by the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Administrative Committee in Riverside, California on July 15, 2025.
Para publicación inmediata
Declaración sobre el Evangelio y el valor de la vida humana
17 de julio de 2025
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—La Conferencia del Sureste de California (SECC) sirve a casi 70,000 miembros en cinco diferentes condados. Nuestra región se caracteriza por una rica diversidad lingüística, étnica y socioeconómica; es una anticipación de la visión profética de Apocalipsis 7:9, donde "una gran multitud de toda nación, tribu, pueblo y lengua" se reúne en adoración ante el trono de Dios. Reconocemos que los desafíos que afectan a una comunidad pueden no afectar a otras de la misma manera. Sin embargo, en esta diversidad encontramos una sagrada oportunidad para practicar un ministerio de compasión y una misión compartida.
Cuando la polarización amenaza con dividir a las comunidades, recordamos que es en la soberanía de Cristo que «todo subsiste» (Colosenses 1:17). Debemos considerar que, en su ministerio terrenal, Jesús se identificó con los vulnerables y marginados (Mateo 11:5).
Ante el aumento de las medidas de control migratorio y el temor que sienten algunos miembros de iglesia y personas en nuestras comunidades, afirmamos el llamado y compromiso de la División Norteamericana (NAD) para proteger “la Dignidad y la Decencia Humana”.
Rechazamos la idea de que el valor de una persona se determina por su estatus migratorio; más bien, afirmamos que todo ser humano es creado a imagen de Dios (Génesis 1:27) y está dotado de valor y dignidad inherentes. Esta afirmación no niega la importancia de respetar las leyes de Estados Unidos. Esperamos que las autoridades implementen políticas migratorias justas y compasivas, que se respete la ley de la nación, pero que se haga dentro del marco de la protección de la dignidad humana.
El ambiente actual presenta un desafío creciente para cumplir con la misión de proclamar el Evangelio Eterno en nuestro territorio multicultural. A medida que nuestros pastores, educadores y miembros de iglesia experimentan consecuencias directas e indirectas, tenemos la responsabilidad moral de alzar nuestra voz con claridad y mostrar compasión hacia las familias afectadas.
Las Escrituras nos llaman a cuidar del extranjero entre nosotros, tratándolo como uno de los nuestros (Levítico 19:34). Creemos en la convicción de la NAD de que «la deshumanización mediante la exclusión o el miedo contradice la enseñanza bíblica» (Creencia Fundamental #14). Instamos a que los inmigrantes y refugiados en nuestras comunidades sean tratados con respeto y dignidad.
Nos mantenemos firmes en nuestro compromiso de crear espacios seguros e inclusivos para todas las personas en nuestras iglesias y escuelas, sin distinción de su situación migratoria.
Sabemos que el culto presencial puede no ser seguro para todos en este momento, por lo que invitamos a los afectados a permanecer conectados con nosotros en forma virtual.
SECC seguirá equipando y apoyando a nuestros líderes y congregaciones, proporcionando recursos, capacitación y atención pastoral para satisfacer las necesidades físicas y espirituales de toda nuestra comunidad de fe.
Oramos para que el amor de Dios provea la ayuda necesaria para enfrentar y vencer el miedo (1 Juan 4:18), y que cada persona experimente la verdad expresada en Efesios 2:19, 22: que ya no somos extranjeros ni advenedizos, sino conciudadanos y miembros de la familia de Dios, siendo edificados juntos para ser morada de su Espíritu.
Que nosotros, como cuerpo de creyentes, abracemos la esperanza y experimentemos la sanidad y la justicia del evangelio tanto en nuestras palabras como también en nuestro testimonio.
Firmado,
Administración de la Conferencia del Sureste de California.
Esta declaración fue votada por el Comité Administrativo de la Conferencia Adventista del Séptimo Día del Sureste de California en Riverside, California, el 15 de julio de 2025
Dear Southeastern California Conference members,
It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Elder Charles "Lorie" Purdey, who peacefully went to rest on June 13, 2025, at the age of 89.
Known for his kind spirit, joyful humor, and unwavering faith, Lorie served the Seventh-day Adventist Church for almost 60 years with deep devotion.
Ordained by his father in 1962, Purdey shared the gospel as both a minister and evangelistic singer, touching lives across the globe through mission work and music. Purdey began pastoring within the Southeastern California Conference in 1987 at several churches—including the Paradise Valley, San Diego Central, Redlands, and Campus Hill churches—before his retirement in 2014. In recent years, he was a beloved member of Loma Linda University Church.
He is survived by his loving wife, Julia, his sons Randy, Charles, and Corie, stepdaughters Christy, Lara, and Stephanie, along with 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers.
All are welcome to join the family this month at his memorial service in celebrating a life of faith, love, and service.
July 19, 2025 | 3:30 p.m.
Loma Linda University SDA Church | Fellowship Hall
11125 Campus St.
Loma Linda, CA 92354
Many Azure Hills church members remember when the church campus was a country club, complete with an Olympic-sized pool and a snack bar. Azure Hills charter member Carolyn Marovitch remembers the journey to becoming a church. “I was with the group that walked through the country club before it was purchased.”
Founded on January 1, 1965, by 288 charter members, the church has grown to over 2,300 members. The weekend of January 17-19, 2025 the church celebrated 60 years of rich history under the theme 'All Belong,' reflecting the church’s commitment to embracing and uplifting people of all backgrounds and walks of life.
The anniversary weekend began on Friday, January 17, with a night of worship led by George Tuyu, youth pastor. Tara VinCross, senior pastor, preached on how everyone has a place at God’s table. During the first worship service on Saturday, Lee Venden, pastor, presented a unique message that included his late father, former senior pastor, Morris Venden. In the second service, Southeastern California Conference president, Jonathan Park, congratulated the church for its 60-year history of gospel ministry. Grand Terrace mayor, Bill Hussey, and mayor pro tem, Michelle Sabino, then presented a plaque and proclamation honoring Azure Hills' contributions to the community including hosting community events, supporting safety during the pandemic, and creating the Elias Community Center.
John Brunt, former senior pastor, preached a message titled, "Welcome," reminding the congregation to welcome others as Christ has welcomed us. The service concluded with five baptisms, including 92-year-old Florita Welborn, the oldest person ever baptized at Azure Hills, as well as Holly and Chris Negron and Anthony and Jankel Cadavid.
The weekend celebration continued with lunch and an evening concert by the Heritage Singers, and concluded on Sunday, January 19, with a pickleball tournament of players from ages 10 to 86 years old on the Azure Hills courts, organized by church member, Ernie Medina, Jr.
Throughout the weekend, Azure Hills celebrated God’s faithfulness, community impact, and commitment to welcoming all. “We are so grateful to Dr. Andy Sandiford and the Anniversary Planning Committee, who did a fantastic job organizing this weekend,” said Pastor Tara VinCross. “We are eager to see all that God will do in the years to come as we pursue Jesus, committed to loving our neighbors in Grand Terrace and beyond.”
April 30, 2025
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—Southeastern California Conference (SECC) is excited to announce Isaac Kim as the Interim Youth Director, effective April, 2025. He succeeds Aren Rennacker who served as conference Youth Director from December, 2019 before accepting a call to the Pacific Union Conference.
Kim has served within SECC for over 25 years in ministry, beginning at the Calimesa Seventh-day Adventist Church as Associate Pastor prior to leading our conference Family & Children’s ministry as an Associate Youth Director since December, 2021. He likes to work collaboratively with ministry teams, cheerleading ministry leaders, and creating space for people to share life together. Isaac and his two boys enjoy sports, both playing and watching. He strives to be the best dad that he can be by modeling the love of Jesus and believes that the message of the Gospel shows up in different ways in our journeys.
As Interim Youth Director, Kim will oversee conference Youth department operations, youth, young adult, family, and children ministry programs, and support church youth ministry leaders in various capacities.
Southeastern California Conference is excited to see how God continues to move within our youth ministries. Please join us in congratulating Isaac.
Dear Southeastern California Conference members,
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Pastor James (Jim) Clizbe on March 12, 2025. He is now resting in Jesus.
With 45 years serving the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Clizbe spent his career both in education and church ministry. He served in a number of conferences including the Wisconsin, Michigan, Georgia-Cumberland, Columbia Union, Ohio, Texas, and Southern California before retiring within the Southeastern California Conference (SECC). His experience has led him to working as an elementary teacher, dean, principal, and superintendent, before accepting a call to serve as an associate pastor at the La Sierra University Church in 2005 before the end of his employment in 2007. He concluded his service within the Riverside County Sheriff’s department as a chaplain.
Southeastern California Conference expresses its gratitude for Pastor Clizbe and years of service as an educator and leader. Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers.
Dear Southeastern California Conference members,
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Anthony Paschal, Sr. Pastor Paschal served within the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) for many years. He led as the Vice President for Black Ministries, and also pastored the Kansas Avenue and 16th Street SDA Churches. Before coming to SECC, he pastored in Southern California Conference and served as a chaplain in Los Angeles.
We solicit your prayers for his family and for the many people his life and ministry impacted. His services will take place in Dallas, Texas on March 31, 2025. A memorial service is being planned within the Southern California region in April.
Flowers can be sent to:
Skyvue Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens
7220 Rendon Bloodworth Rd.
Mansfield, TX 76063
