Northern Lights – August, 2026

By Ken Miller

With nearly 500 women in attendance and the theme “A Sus Pies” (At His Feet), the Northern California Conference Hispanic Ministries Department held its annual Hispanic Women’s Ministries Retreat at Leoni Meadows. 

Women from churches across the conference gathered for a weekend of worship, Bible study, and fellowship centered on developing a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Throughout the retreat, speakers encouraged attendees to bring every aspect of their lives to Christ and embrace the calling God has given them in ministry. Music, prayer, and small-group interactions provided opportunities for women to share their experiences and encourage one another in their faith.

Florinda Guevara, director of Hispanic Women’s Ministries, shared, “This was a time for reencountering Jesus, to celebrate His goodness and to once again learn about the special place Christian women have in ministry for our Lord.” 

Several women shared their testimonies of attending a Christian event for the first time and encountering Jesus in a personal way. Their stories became one of the highlights of the weekend and served as a reminder of God’s continuing work in the lives of those seeking Him.

Guevara concluded, “Each year, this retreat emphasizes the important role women play in sharing Christ’s love in their homes, churches, and communities.”

By Ken Miller

Men from across the Northern California Conference gathered recently for the NCC Christian Men’s Retreat, centered on the theme “All In, Men.” Speaker Marty Miller invited participants to reflect on what full commitment to God looks like in everyday life—at home, in the church, and in the wider community.

Throughout the weekend, men worshiped together, participated in seminars, and engaged in conversations focused on practical, Bible-based discipleship and Christian character. The message of wholehearted commitment was echoed by Rudy Peters, NCC African American Ministries Coordinator, who shared, “‘All-in men’ are ordinary men who have made an extraordinary decision—to give God their whole heart, their full devotion, and their unwavering commitment.”

Time was also set aside for fellowship and connection, as attendees shared meals, built new relationships, and encouraged one another in their spiritual journeys. The retreat provided a steady rhythm of worship, learning, and conversation designed to support reflection and renewal.

Through gatherings like this annual retreat, the NCC Men’s Ministries Department continues to support men in growing as disciples and serving faithfully in their homes, churches, and communities.

By Linnea Elias

As part of Galt Adventist School’s annual Artists and Authors event, students reflected on God’s unique design for each person and considered how their talents and strengths could be used to serve others. Through artwork and reflective essays centered on the theme of shining God’s light, they explored ways they could make a difference in the world around them. 

To put these ideas into practice and expose students to real-world careers, the class embarked on a job-shadowing experience. Thanks to the support of parent volunteers and drivers, students visited either the Galt Police Department or Galt Precision Automotive. Along the way, they sought answers to questions such as:

Students at the automotive shop enjoyed learning basic vehicle maintenance from the owner’s fiancée, practicing how to check oil levels and tire pressure. At the police station, students eagerly questioned officers about the responsibilities of detectives, community service officers, and the remarkable multitasking skills required of a 911 dispatcher.

It was a blessing to participate in this meaningful experience and to watch students begin connecting their God-given gifts with future opportunities to serve others and shine God’s light in their communities.