PACIFIC UNION CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2025
Westlake Village, California — The Pacific Union Conference is pleased to announce the appointment of Aren Rennacker as the inaugural director of Growing Young Leaders, a newly established department focused on expanded promotion and support for young people preparing for pastoral or educational service in the Seventh-day Adventist church.
Rennacker steps into this role after serving as youth and young adult director for the Southeastern California Conference (SECC). Earlier in his ministry, he pastored youth and young adults at the Calimesa and Oceanside churches. A graduate of Pacific Union College (B.A. in journalism, 2011) and La Sierra University (M.A. in theological studies, 2017), he brings a thoughtful and creative approach to nurturing young leaders.
“Youth ministry has shaped every part of who I am,” Rennacker said. “Young people are honest, courageous, and deeply spiritual—and they deserve leaders who believe in them. I’m excited about expanding the opportunities for young leaders to thrive in our churches, schools, and communities.”
“Aren’s ability to connect across generations and foster meaningful spiritual engagement makes him an ideal leader for this new initiative,” said Dr. Bradford Newton, president of the Pacific Union Conference.
Adventists in the Pacific Southwest have long been recognized for leadership and innovation in youth and young adult ministry—with early support of Pathfinders and Adventurers, outstanding summer camps, ministries for academy and college students, and young adult initiatives. Across its seven conferences, the Union has consistently nurtured young people—championing student missionary and volunteer programs, supporting full-time youth pastors and chaplains, and building a strong network of Bible teachers in more than 30 academies. With three Adventist institutions—Pacific Union College, La Sierra University, and Loma Linda University—offering formal training in both theology and education, the Union continues to cultivate the next generation of pastors, teachers, and ministry leaders.
Aren and his wife, Paige, make their home in Southern California.
Media Contact:
Ray Tetz
Director, Communication & Community Engagement
Pacific Union Conference
ray.tetz@adventistfaith.com
