Dear Southeastern California Conference family,
It is with deep sorrow that the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) announces the death of Charles “Chuck” McKinstry. McKinstry served SECC faithfully since 1969 and leaves behind a legacy of commitment and dedication to serving children within the community.
McKinstry began teaching at the San Diego Academy in June 1969, becoming principal in 1978 and eventually becoming Superintendent of Education for SECC in July 1985 until November 2004. He inspired and mentored students, teachers, and administrators while serving in these roles. McKinstry loved Adventist education and was invested in its success.
“Chuck had the ability to quietly multiply an individual’s strengths and then provide opportunities to use those talents.,” said Datha Tickner, Superintendent of Schools.
McKinstry became the director of Property and Trust Service (PATS) in December 2004, providing legal counsel. He was a fierce protector of children at SECC churches and schools. He also provided legal advice and guidance to thousands of pastors, church leaders, teachers, principals and conference administration. “He had a way of making each one of us feel seen. He made leaders,” stated Reyna Escobar, director of Property & Trust services. McKinstry concluded his role in 2019.
“Chuck was consistently graceful under pressure and demonstrated the love of Christ to everyone he met,” said Richard Harrison, SECC Legal Counsel & Director of Legal/ Property Services.
The Southeastern California Conference extends its condolences to his family and loved ones and asks to keep them in your prayers during this time.
Celebration of Life Service
Saturday, September 12 at 3:00 p.m.
Corona Seventh-day Adventist Church
2550 S Main St, Corona, CA 92882
The service will be livestreamed and available for later viewing: www.youtube.com/@coronasdachurch
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 began the opening day of the Messiah's Mansion exhibition located at the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) office campus in Riverside. For six days, visitors can take a step back more than 3,000 years to experience the biblical sanctuary in a new way.
Messiah's Mansion, a traveling life-sized replica of the Hebrew Tabernacle, is open for tours September 1-6 at the SECC office. Through a guided, five-station experience, visitors journey from the courtyard into the Holy Place and Most Holy Place to learn about the altar of sacrifice, laver, table of showbread, altar of incense, candlestick, Ark of the Covenant, and garments of the high priest.
This historical exhibit brings the biblical story of the sanctuary to life and provides opportunities for guests of all ages to better understand its symbols, their significance, and God's plan of salvation for humanity.
For generations, Seventh-day Adventists have studied the sanctuary as more than an ancient structure. Its furnishings, sacrifices, priests, and services tell a larger story—the story of salvation and the ministry of Jesus Christ. The earthly sanctuary was designed as a place where God would dwell among His people, but Scripture also describes its services as a “copy and shadow of the heavenly things.” Throughout its worship system, the sanctuary pointed forward to Christ—His sacrifice for humanity, His role as our High Priest, and His continuing ministry on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary.
In this way, the sanctuary message is not simply about understanding ancient Israel. It offers a picture of a God who desires to be near His people and has made a way for humanity to be restored to Him.
Walking through Messiah’s Mansion provides an opportunity to see familiar biblical passages in a new way. The altar can remind visitors of Christ’s sacrifice. The priesthood points toward Jesus as our High Priest. And the journey toward the Most Holy Place can invite reflection on God’s desire to ultimately restore His people fully into His presence.
Messiah’s Mansion has traveled across 38 states and seven countries since 2003, welcoming churches, schools, families, and communities along the way.
Free tours are available daily from 1:00 to 6:30 p.m. at 11330 Pierce Street in Riverside. Walk-ins are welcomed, but reservations are preferred. Visit https://www.messiahsmansion.com/riverside to book a tour.
April 20, 2026
LOMA LINDA, CALIF.—Hundreds of educators, administrators, and pastors descended on the campus of Loma Linda Academy for Health Day. Sponsored by the Ministerial department and Office of Education of the Southeastern California Conference (SECC), the day brought together school and church leaders to partake in activities, exercise and enjoy friendly competition with movement and health at the center.
Traditionally held at the Drayson Center campus of Loma Linda University, this year was the first for Loma Linda Academy to host this annual event. From a devotional message that kicked off the day, Pastor Aren Rennacker, Director for Growing Young Leaders at Pacific Union Conference, encouraged the attendees to embrace movement as a commitment to change and betterment.
Pastors and teachers were then given several opportunities to take part in competitions such as volleyball, pickleball, ping pong, and a Fifa showdown on the soccer field between pastors and teachers. The pastors team won the Fifa tournament and were crowned winners. Throughout the day, SECC employees connected with one another and made new friendships. The day concluded with a prize giveaway. Many educators and pastors were recipients of relaxing trips and gadgets in an expression of appreciation.
“It’s moments like this, that we get to see every pastor and every teacher, who serve day after day, meet together in one place just to connect with one another. It reminds me that we are many moving parts, and when working together, help us fulfill our mission. For that, I am grateful that our office staff get to serve each educator and pastor in the field,” shared Jonathan Park, SECC president.
This day, like many, are just one of the ways the Southeastern California Conference brings together hard-working pastors, administrators, and teachers to share its gratitude and encourage community through movement.
To mark the beginning of the new school year, several SDA schools across the SECC opened their campuses with prayer walks. Students, parents, teachers, and staff joined together to dedicate the year to God, praying over classrooms, hallways, and shared spaces.
Participating schools included Redlands Adventist Academy, San Diego Academy, Calexico Mission School, San Antonio Christian School, La Sierra Academy, Orangewood Academy, Murrieta Springs Adventist Christian School, Desert Adventist School, Oceanside Adventist Elementary, Mentone SDA Elementary, and Loma Linda Academy.
The purpose of these gatherings served as powerful reminders that education within Adventist schools is about more than academics—it is about nurturing spiritual growth, building community, and inviting God’s presence into every aspect of school life. By beginning the year with prayer, these campuses set the tone for a Christ-centered journey ahead.
Laguna Niguel Junior Academy Operations Paused for the 2025-2026 School Year
August 11, 2025
RIVERSIDE, Calif.— The Office of Education takes its responsibility of ensuring our schools are providing safe, high quality (spiritually and academically) education for our families very seriously. This includes identifying trends and metrics that require attention to meet our educational standards.
On July 31, 2025, the Office of Education, along with conference administration, and the Laguna Niguel Junior Academy (LNJA) school board have concluded to pause the school’s operation for the 2025-2026 school. A number of factors were considered which included the lack of teaching and administrative staff at the school. After nearly two months of pursuing viable candidates, in addition to minimal student enrollment confirmation, the conference and school board have voted to pause operations for this school year.
As the conference continues to assess, the Office of Education is continuing to support families by personally contacting them with offers of assistance in transitioning to another Adventist school. Orangewood Academy (OA) is working closely with conference personnel to support transferring students for the nearing school year. OA will honor all tuition assistance and agreements if registered by August 14th. In addition to this, the conference will grant monthly transportation scholarships in the amount of $100 per family.
The LNJA school board will remain intact and continue to meet regularly to work on a proposal to present to the Office of Education in November on the future reopening of the school.
We invite you to continue to pray for our students, staff, and administrators through this season of transition. We remain affirmed that God’s work is still active through Adventist education and the lives of our students and families.
When you think of Redlands Adventist Academy (RAA), a rush of images likely comes to mind: community, spirited sports, engaging academics, cherished friendships, and the phrase “Go Bulldogs!” For many, that list includes music. When “music” is mentioned at RAA, it is easy to think of the name: Mr. James Walters. RAA recently paid tribute to this longtime educator and music director by celebrating an extraordinary 40-year legacy of teaching and mentorship with a surprise performance at the school’s annual High School Spring Concert.
Walters, a figurehead at RAA since the early 1980s, has worn many hats—teaching history, government, and economics, while also directing the school’s band and acclaimed handbell ensembles. Known for his peace-sign greeting, fun-loving humor, historical insight, and appreciation for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Walters has left an enduring mark on generations of students.
To honor his four decades of service, alumni and current members of RAA’s Bellissimo handbell ensemble organized a covert tribute. Under the direction of Will Arnold, principal, Walters was invited to the gym on the evening of the concert under the pretense of helping with a project. As the concert began, Arnold addressed the audience, reflecting on Walters’ influence and assuring attendees that this was not a retirement announcement.
At Arnold’s cue, a group of 10–12 alumni and 7–8 current students entered the gym holding copies of Walters’ very first handbell composition. The crowd responded with gasps and applause as the ensemble quietly assembled. As the final player joined, Walters was invited to the podium to conduct the piece himself—completely unaware of the plan until that moment. With only one day of rehearsal, the performance was heartfelt and polished, ending in an emotional standing ovation.
In addition to the live tribute, all handbell students from grades 5 through 12 signed a commemorative gift: a decorative message mounted behind a vintage brass school bell—symbolizing the sound legacy of a teacher whose impact continues to ring through the halls of RAA.
The Restoration Center SDA group and High Desert New Beginnings, Inc. of Barstow partnered to provide a pharmacy technician certification program. Known as the Stay the Course Pharmacy Technician Certification Program, the training aims to prepare for exams and certification of new pharmacy technicians for entry-employment in the local service area.
This six-to-eight-week course is offered annually, beginning in June, to residents of San Bernardino county’s high desert who are interested in job opportunities as an entry-level pharmacy technician. Interested persons are required to present their high school diploma upon course registration and must have reliable transportation to the training location in Victorville for the duration of classes.
As a result of the program, graduates have begun obtaining employment in the pharmacy technician field or are making plans to enter the field at a future time and location of their choosing. A recent graduate from the program is now employed as a pharmacy technician. She shared her gratitude of the program and the impact her employment has made in her life and her son. Another graduate is in the process of employment with the veterans program. Idah White, pharmacy technician, has led the program as instructor for two years.
The joint mission of the two partnering agencies is to provide an opportunity to anyone who unemployed, underemployed, or is looking for a career change. White shared, “This ministry gives back to those who are seriously motivated to elevate their life trajectory towards self-sufficiency through sustainable, gainful employment.” As part of the group’s ministry, the program is at no cost to participants, but donations are encouraged to help defray the cost of consumable supply, the Restoration Center facility, and the required Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam. Each participant must purchase their own PTCB Exam prep book,
Restoration Center is accepting donations in support of the program and are encouraging those interested in a health-related career to register at www.RestorationCenterSDA.org.
Redlands Adventist Academy (RAA) students recently explored orthopedic surgery through an immersive lab led by alumnus Corey Fuller, orthopedist. Eager to give back, Fuller instructed Anatomy and Physiology students through procedures such as fracture repairs, bone structure analysis, and surgical techniques.
The session allowed students to work with surgical tools, reinforcing their classroom knowledge with real-world application. Student Sydney Van Zant appreciated the hands-on approach, stating, "It helped me better understand fractures and what factors go into repairing them." She emphasized the importance of precise screw placement, adding, "We had to be precise and make sure not to drill or cover any parts of the growth plate on the femur."
Faith Hayton found the experience engaging. "It was more helpful for me to do something hands-on and make connections about what we’ve learned in class," she said, describing the process of aligning bones using plates and screws. Grace Hayton also found the lab inspiring, sharing, "It made the medical field seem less scary and more interesting than I thought it would be."
Other students walked away with a greater appreciation for surgical work. Caroline Keough remarked, "The fact that the bone felt real was especially interesting. It gave me a deeper understanding of how surgeons work." Maidah Khan saw new career possibilities, saying, "After the lab, I started thinking about possibly going into surgery, and it rekindled my passion for cardiology."
Carter Leichty was surprised by the similarities between surgical tools and everyday hardware. "I didn't know that the equipment they use is very close to hardware tools like drills and screws," he observed. Keathy Sanchez valued the practical knowledge, stating, "It may also be helpful to know what happens in a surgical procedure if a friend breaks a bone."
The orthopedic surgery lab provided students with an invaluable learning experience, bridging academic study with hands-on medical practice. Dr. Fuller’s dedication to educating RAA students ensures young minds are equipped with knowledge that extends beyond the classroom, inspiring potential future careers in healthcare.
Happy chatter filled the early morning air as the eighth-grade class of Redlands Adventist Academy arrived at the Loma Linda Vietnamese church. They were on a mission to restore the exterior of the church to the respect and beauty that it deserved. The church struggled to find an affordable contractor to paint the outside after graffiti was sprayed on the walls. Peeling old and outdated paint did not reflect the love the church held for its building. They prayed for an answer which arrived in the form of 30 eighth-graders, supportive parents, and their teacher.
After a word of prayer for God’s blessings on their efforts, the students and parents were divided into groups to commence work. Scrapping, sanding, and masking up windows were skills quickly developed. The class worked with determination. It was Friday and the goal was to paint all the exterior walls in time for Sabbath. As soon as a section was prepared, airless spraying of a new coat of paint started, with students coming behind to “cut in” the places the sprayer could not get.
The school carefully planned a food sale to raise funds to support the cost of materials. A paint store providing their best paint at discount price and a local sign company agreeing to make a new sign for the church at low cost was just two ways God was opening doors for the project.
Breaks, music, and a pizza lunch kept the group’s spirit strong and driven to finish the task. By the end of the afternoon’s work, the job of painting the walls was completed and cleaned up for Sabbath worship. “Painting the church was a great experience that brought me closer to my friends and God!” stated Thomas Bullard, an eighth-grade student.
To celebrate the completion of the work, a special Christmas program was held by the Vietnamese church members on Sabbath. The class was invited and honored with gifts. Joy filled the church and hearts of those present as they retold how God had made the transformation possible. “It was a unique experience and left a good feeling,” student Enzzo Kramer stated. Eighth-grader Zara Matthew summed it up by sharing, “The church was truly grateful, we were a miracle to them and an answer to prayer.”
January 30, 2025 | Columbia, MD
From the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church: An Appeal for Human Dignity and Decency
There are many in the United States who are afraid for their futures, and for the lives of family members. As a Christian denomination in the U.S., the Seventh-day Adventist Church supports the rights of all persons, no matter their country of origin—the equal rights provided in the U.S. Constitution and fair treatment as immigrants and refugees in this country.
As members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we believe that “we are all equal in Christ, who by one Spirit has bonded us into one fellowship with Him and with one another; we are to serve and be served without partiality or reservation” (Fundamental Belief No.14).
“We maintain our allegiance to the biblical principles of equality and dignity of all human beings in the face of historic and continuing attempts to use skin color, place of origin, caste, or perceived lineage as a pretext for oppressive and dominating behavior. These attempts are a denial of our shared humanity, and we deplore all such aggression and prejudice as an offense to God” (Seventh-day Adventist Church statement “One Humanity: A Human Relations Statement Addressing Racism, Casteism, Tribalism, and Ethnocentrism”).
The Bible declares that in Christ there is neither Jew nor Gentile, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female—all are one in Christ Jesus (Gal. 3:28). We are one humanity. Dehumanization and margination by law or the implementation of the laws or policies are diametrically opposed to the Bible. Therefore, it is inhumane and robs people of their God-given dignity in Christ to have policies that make them afraid to go to church and school because of the threat of being deported.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America encourages its churches and schools to be warm and welcoming places for all people. All are created by God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
In light of the fact that we have a shared humanity, in light of the fact we all are created equal, in light of the fact we should love our neighbor as ourselves, and in light of the fact that Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matt. 25:40, NIV), our appeal is for us, as Adventists, to show our immigrant families that we love them by lifting up our voices and standing by their side in these times of uncertainty.
Our appeal to our policymakers and government leaders is found in The Seventh-day Adventist Church Manual (p. 92): “All are in search of wholeness. All are gifted, needed, and treasured. All are created in the image of God with an inherent dignity regardless of any limitation they may have.” Therefore, let our laws and the implementation of our laws treat all of God’s children, who are created in His image, with the dignity and decency they deserve.
Sincerely,
G. Alexander Bryant, DMin
President
Kyoshin Ahn, PhD
Executive Secretary
Judy Glass
Treasurer/CFO
