As the summer came to a close, PSR stood out as more than just a camp. Worship had shaped it into a community—one where leaders emerged, relationships deepened, and God’s presence was experienced in everyday moments.
There was something different in the air at Pine Springs Ranch (PSR) this summer, something deeper, quieter, and more powerful than the usual camp buzz. It was worship. Not just the songs sung at morning gatherings or the hands raised during evening vespers, but a spirit of worship that shaped how staff and campers interacted—in the dining hall, during activities, and in the ways they listened, encouraged, and served. This focus on spiritual connection defined each week and led to something beautiful: eighteen baptisms, including fourteen campers and four staff members who publicly declared their commitment to Jesus.
At the center were Jo and Laia Amaya, a husband-and-wife team pursuing Master of Divinity degrees at Andrews University. Having served within the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) before graduate school, they returned with a vision: to cultivate a worship culture that felt authentic, safe, and rooted in relationship.
“We didn’t want worship to feel like a performance or a task,” Laia shared. “We wanted it to be a joy—something that made people feel seen and safe.” Instead of assigning worship to busy staff, Jo and Laia led every service themselves, inviting others to join as they felt ready. By midweek, staff and campers who began hesitant to sing were stepping forward as “worship leaders,” a title used to affirm and empower them.
Their style was less about polish and more about presence. Songs were chosen for age groups, sometimes adjusted when participation lagged, but always aimed at building trust and community. “We saw worship as our mission field,” Jo explained. “It wasn’t just about music, it was about how we treated each other.” Even silly or unfamiliar songs became tools for connection—opportunities to sing with friends and grow in faith together.
Angelica Torres, returning as Spiritual Care Coordinator, saw how this reshaped camp culture. “With so many new staff, we had to rebuild from the ground up,” she explained. “Jo and Laia helped us see that worship wasn’t just a slot on the schedule—it became the heart posture of the community.”
By the final day, campers who once sat quietly were leading songs with confidence. Staff who never imagined themselves in spiritual roles guided others in prayer. Arms linked in worship circles became a weekly scene, as once-reluctant voices now asked, “Can we sing that song again?”
September 02, 2025
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—Southeastern California Conference (SECC) is pleased to announce Isaac Kim as Youth Director, effective September 2025. This appointment follows the confirmation of the August Executive Committee meeting.
Kim, who served as Interim Youth Director since April 2025 and formerly as an Associate Youth Director since December 2021, will lead the Youth Ministries department (SECC Youth) which oversees Club Ministry, Family & Children’s Ministry, Summer Camp Ministry, and Youth & Young Adult Ministry. He will continue to lead Family & Children’s Ministry as the department director.
Southeastern California Conference is excited to see how God will move throughout our youth ministries and the leaders our Youth department empowers.
Please join us in congratulating Isaac!
From Canvasser to Calling: How Youth Rush Shaped a Future Pastor
By Ezrica Bennett
At 16, Joshua Roman joined Youth Rush as a shy teenager. Today, he serves as the San Diego program head and is spending his eighth summer with the organization. He is also pursuing a theology degree at Southern Adventist University. For Roman, Youth Rush was more than just a summer job; it was a catalyst for transformation.
Youth Rush is a summer literature evangelism program for young adults that equips students with meaningful skills and ministry experience. Each day begins with optional morning devotionals, followed by practical chores such as food preparation, inventory, or accounting. After breakfast and a mandatory worship session, students receive training on how to engage with the public safely and effectively. From 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., they canvas neighborhoods and parking lots, offering books on health and spirituality on a donation basis. Students keep a portion of what they collect, while the remainder supports the program’s operational costs, such as transportation and housing.
Like Roman, many students enter Youth Rush with little experience in social interaction or evangelism. Over time, they develop essential communication skills that strengthen their confidence and character which extend beyond their time in the program.
“Youth Rush helped me break out of my shell,” Roman shares. “I used to be terrified of talking to people. After facing rejection day after day, I stopped being afraid. I gained confidence, learned how to make friends, and how to reach people’s hearts.”
Students often experience moments where they see their faith come to life. Roman recalled one student who had been praying for an “angel experience.” One day, while canvassing, people kept glancing over his shoulder, and someone gave him two water bottles—one for him and one "for his friend." The student was alone. When he shared what happened, a leader suggested, “Maybe that was your angel.” The student was overjoyed; his prayer had been answered.
The process of engaging their faith through service makes this a life-changing experience for many. It certainly was for Roman. Though he once planned to follow his family into medicine or the military, he now sees ministry as his calling.
“Youth Rush changed my path and my heart,” he says. A journey that began with a simple yes continues to shape his purpose and the stories of other young adults, one summer at a time.
Marching with Purpose: Celebrating Club Ministries within SECC
By Jordyn Wright and Taji Saleem
The campus of La Sierra University was vibrant with rhythmic drums, food booths, and over 3,000 attendees who gathered for the Southeastern California Conference’s (SECC) fourth annual Club Ministries Fair. With over 100 clubs represented and more than 2,000 participants marching in the parade, the event reflected the camaraderie developed by Pathfinders, Adventurers, and Master Guides in SECC.
Now in its third year held on La Sierra’s campus, the Club Ministries Fair is the result of merging the longstanding Pathfinder Fair and Adventurer Fun Day. This fusion has not only preserved cherished traditions but also created a new space to celebrate the accomplishments of clubs at the end of their ministry season. This year’s fair marked a milestone in attendance and participation, reflecting the increasing energy and commitment within SECC’s club ministries.
Organized by Michel Aguinaga, club ministries director, Savannah Villa, youth secretary, Jared Gonzalez, assistant media director, and 25 dedicated club ministry coordinators, the success of the event evident through the vibrancy throughout the day. Gonzalez shared, “I really enjoyed seeing all the families and friends come together to support the clubs. Everyone had a smile on their face as the clubs from every county marched on the grounds of La Sierra University.” He especially highlighted the enthusiasm around the Drill Down competitions, noting the high level of preparation and discipline displayed by participating Pathfinders. University president, Christon Arthur addressed the morning crowd with an inviting message: “This is your home (referring to LSU).”
More than just marching and awards, slip-and-slide games and a foam machine enticed attendees out of their uniforms. A diverse menu of pupusas, burgers, and Kona Ice refreshed hungry attendees.
Recognition was another key feature of the day. Eleven clubs earned a prestigious platinum award, while others received silver and bronze honors. Special acknowledgment was given to Pathfinder Bible Experience teams and the first Adventurer Bible Game participants—underscoring the commitment to spiritual growth and excellence.
The success of the fair, as Gonzalez noted, was not only in the numbers but in the seamless execution and positive feedback from directors and families alike. “One director told me how everything was on time and even ahead of schedule,” he said. “It just showed how committed everyone was to making this event a success.”
In every way, the Club Ministries Fair exemplified the unity and spirit of SECC’s club ministries—a celebration of what happens when dedication, hard work, and community come together.
“Growing up without a present father, I often questioned how a loving Heavenly Father could exist. Church was always part of my life, yet I struggled with faith—attending only because I had no choice. Like many in my youth group, I felt disconnected.”
That all changed, when Jonathan Navarro ran into two friends returning from Youth Rush. They were happy and excited about God. Navarro thought, “If God could do it for them, maybe He could do it for me.”Navarro, this year’s Youth Rush program head leader, joined the program the following summer in 2019 and had a life changing experience. Through daily worship, he learned that even though he had no earthly father, he had a Heavenly Father who cared deeply.
That summer left a lasting impact, giving Navarro the desire to pursue a degree in pastoral ministry at Southern Adventist University. He shares, “I am driven by the hope of impacting other youth, just as Youth Rush did for me.”
What is Youth Rush?
Youth Rush is Southeastern California Conference’s (SECC) Student Literature Evangelism program, which empowers youth ages 16 to 25 to share the good news while earning funds for Adventist education. Formally known as colporteuring, Youth Rush puts a new face on the long-standing ministry. Students distribute Bible-based literature in local communities on a donation basis, and the funds support their Adventist education. In addition to the ministry benefits, it offers unforgettable experiences—camping weekends, beach trips, and even a retreat to Catalina Island to foster meaningful community.
However, the true purpose of Youth Rush goes beyond literature distribution. It develops social skills, builds confidence, and develops leadership qualities among young people. By engaging in mission, youth are equipped to become the future leaders of our churches and communities.
Over the last few years, Youth Rush has seen remarkable growth in participation, literature sales, and Adventist scholarships:
Each number represents a youth dedicated to mission and each dollar represents a Christ-centered book in a community home. Every summer, many of our youth embrace the challenge to share the gospel and impact our communities. The personal experience of seeing God touch lives through literature, is truly life changing.
If you are a young person seeking a mission opportunity or know someone who might benefit, visit seccyouthrush.com to learn more and apply for our 2025 summer program.
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.
The annual Junior/Senior Bible Conference, hosted by the SECC Office of Education, brought together upperclassmen from academies across the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) and Southern California Conference (SCC) for a weekend of spiritual renewal, fellowship, and inspiration. Held at the newly renovated Pine Springs Ranch from January 29 to February 1, 2025, the event encouraged students to deepen their relationship with God while connecting with peers from other schools.
This year’s theme, "Rhythm," emphasized the importance of intentionally including God in daily life. Keynote speaker Mike Rhynus from the Loma Linda University School of Religion, a former attendee of the conference himself, delivered powerful messages that resonated with students, challenging them to integrate their faith into everyday routines.
Beyond the main sessions, the heart of the conference was found in family group sessions led by student leaders. These small groups, made up of students from different schools, fostered deeper discussions on scripture while also building lasting friendships through team activities. Ethan Gaines, senior at Redlands Adventist Academy shared, “The community that I created with people that I don’t normally see was amazing. Being able to worship with these people made our connections much more personal.”
A praise band composed of students from various schools led heartfelt worship, creating an atmosphere so powerful it was contagious. Nicholas Borchik, high school history teacher at Mesa Grande Academy, reflected on the impact the worship had. “Our intention for the event was to create a space for authentic corporate worship. Many of my students walked away saying that they want to take their worship experience into other spaces.” As the students return to their campuses, they carry with them the challenge to embrace Christ as an essential part of their lives, shaping their purpose, choices, and relationships.
Another meaningful element was the Prayer Oasis, a space designed by student Prayer Warriors, where attendees could engage in a unique, multi-sensory prayer experience. Youth pastors played a vital role as mentors for student leaders, while Bible teachers and chaperones helped facilitate team-building activities. Faculty and chaplains emphasized that the lessons learned should extend beyond the event, continuing to inspire students throughout the year.
The Junior/Senior Bible Conference remains a cornerstone of Adventist education in SECC, nurturing faith-filled leaders. Organizers look forward to expanding opportunities for students to engage even more deeply, ensuring that each year builds upon the last in fostering spiritual growth and community.
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.”
Teen FLOW got its start in 2022 with the mission to nurture the growth of teen leaders of Southeastern California Conference’s (SECC) Pathfinders. With tremendous success and great fellowship, Teen FLOW saw its third annual one-day event occur in December 2024 at La Sierra Academy.
Over 220 teen Pathfinders from across SECC gathered for the one-day event, almost doubling the number of teens from last year. “Teen FLOW is a highlight event of our year,” shared Aren Rennacker, SECC director of youth and young adults. “Our teen leaders have done so much in their clubs throughout the year, and we love gathering together to celebrate them. It’s especially fun to see how they connect with each other as they sing, serve, and play at our gym night.”
With a focus on Faith, Leadership, Outreach, and Witnessing, the day’s activities included worship, breakout sessions, and a message from the main speaker, George Tuyu, youth pastor of Azure Hills church. Tuyu emphasized with attendees how God shapes their lives and works with them and through them for His glory.
The breakout sessions of the day were divided by the pillars of FLOW. For “Faith” and “Leadership,” Pathfinder teens enjoyed crafting care packages and working together on a collaborative drawing activity. “Outreach” and “Witnessing” saw attendees visit Gardens of Riverside, an assisted living facility, and engage with its residents and staff. Rennacker shared his own insights on the valuable skills needed when sharing the gospel with others.
For Jared Gonzalez, SECC assistant director for youth media, his first Teen FLOW experience was one he won’t forget. “To see the excitement and drive for ministry these pathfinders had in them was amazing,” said Gonzalez. “Pathfinder teens were so eager to learn and grow spiritually together.”
The growth of Teen FLOW has been inspiring–the benefits teen leaders gain from it even more so. “It [is] a reminder that we should continue to equip and provide resources for our youth so that they can continue life in the path God wants for their lives,” Gonzalez reflected. Rennacker added: “We are grateful for the leadership of our Teen FLOW coordinators, Mercy and JJ Martinez, and to Pastor George for his timely messages! We look forward to the next event!”
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
