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.

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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

More than 300 women gathered on the weekend of April 4-6 for the Hispanic Women’s Retreat. This event commemorated in celebration 35 years of ministry with messages of healing, faith, and community for Hispanic women within Southeastern California Conference. Centered on the theme “From Despair to Faith,” the weekend offered a powerful space for reflection, spiritual renewal, and connection. The retreat’s theme verse, Psalm 94:19 — “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul”— served as a timely reminder of God’s enduring presence and comfort. 

The retreat also featured testimonies from several other women, whose stories of resilience and faith in the face of adversity fostered a sense of deep spiritual connection. Times of dedicated prayer and heartfelt fellowship further nurtured this growing sense of sisterhood and encouragement among the women. 

Sabbath programming offered rich spiritual and historical insight. The morning session explored the lives of courageous women in the Bible, highlighting their unwavering devotion amid profound trials. One attendee shared, “We learned invaluable lessons from their steadfast devotion and remarkable resilience—lessons we can apply to our own lives and journeys of faith.” 

In the evening, the spotlight turned to influential women from secular history. Through biographical presentations and detailed historical costuming, attendees were transported through time to celebrate the legacy of women whose strength and courage have left lasting marks on the world. The segment emphasized the value of learning and honoring the contributions of women throughout the ages. 

Throughout the weekend, expressions of gratitude from attendees were abundant, underscoring the retreat’s profound impact. It was a weekend marked not just by teaching and testimony, but by spiritual growth and shared strength. 

The Hispanic women’s ministries of the Southeastern California Conference remains deeply committed to fostering events that uplift, inspire, and unify. This retreat stood as a vivid testament to that mission. Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to the Hispanic women’s ministry committee, whose dedication made the event possible. 

1. The Hispanic women’s ministry committee stand in recognition.  ↩︎
2. Women gather in front of the lodge.  ↩︎
3. Duncan prays over the women. ↩︎

Dear Southeastern California Conference members,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pastor David Perez Torpoco. He passed away January 27, 2025, and is now resting in Jesus. Originally from Huancayo, Peru, he received his education at Colegio Unión and pastored for 25 years before beginning his ministry in the United States.

Pastor Perez was a servant of God, the church, a beloved husband and father that left a legacy of inspiration. He is best remembered as being present and intentional with those he loved and served.

Before his retirement, Perez served in Orange County, assisting with a colporteur ministry, leading bible studies, and pastoring the Brawley, Indio Spanish, Lake Elsinore, Temecula, and La Sierra Spanish churches.

Southeastern California Conference is grateful for the many years of service to our Church and his commitment to ministry. He brought a spirit full of love for Jesus and passionate energy of service to others.

He leaves behind his wife Elizabeth and his children, Sam, Areli, Aurora, his 4 grandchildren Bernard, Amanda, Ariana, and Elias. A service will be held on February 9, 2025, at the La Sierra Spanish church.

Please keep his family and his loved ones in 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

1. Pastor Joel Armenta (right) of the Nogales Spanish church stands with several of the candidates for baptism. ↩︎
2. Pastor Jose Jimenez of the Tucson Central Spanish church prepares to baptize one of several attendees to the evangelistic meetings that took place at his church. ↩︎
3. Pastor Joshua Lopez of the Blythe Central Spanish church in SECC presents a message in Phoenix Deer Valley Spanish church as part of the evangelism exchange program.
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4. Arizona Conference President Ed Keyes (left) preaches at the Tucson Esperanza Spanish church as part of the ongoing Hispanic Ministries evangelism program.
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