Education Cable January 2025
Education News across the Conference
News From the Education Department
By Heidi Jorgenson
Pentecost Prayer Rally
the most frequent prayer request echoed the same longing: for a deeper relationship with God and readiness for Jesus' soon return
This week, prayers were united during a virtual Pentecost Prayer Rally on January 11, 2025, led by Carlos Camacho, President of the Nevada-Utah Conference, and Chanda Nunes-Henry, Executive Secretary of the Nevada-Utah Conference. This was the culmination of the worldwide 10 Days of Prayer initiative to start the year with an intentional focus on praying for the Holy Spirit. The event brought together participants from different areas of the Conference to seek God’s presence, lift their communities, and pray for the latter rain.
One participant prayed specifically for the conference leaders, asking for wisdom and strength in guiding the church. Another lifted prayers for the country, seeking healing and unity during these times of transition. But the most frequent prayer request echoed the same longing: for a deeper relationship with God and readiness for Jesus' soon return.
In Reno, Nevada, members of the Reno/Sparks Hispanic Church gathered in their church building to join the rally.
The sight of individuals praying together, whether in their homes or church pews, was a powerful testament to the desire to seek God together as a community in the vast territory of the Nevada-Utah Conference.
“It was great to see everyone coming together to pray,” shared Jackie Bradford, one of the attendees. “You could feel the Spirit moving as we all lifted our hearts to God, even from different locations.”
The rally was not just an event to end the 10 Days of Prayer but also a starting point for future initiatives. Reflecting on the evening, the conference president shared, “It’s something that we would like to do again and offer better options for those who speak other languages. We are here to grow together as loving followers of Jesus.”
As the evening concluded, participants were encouraged to carry the momentum forward, keeping the focus on prayer and spiritual growth throughout this year of Evangelism.
Nevada-Utah Conference Hosts Club Ministry Leadership Summit in Salt Lake City
By Neat Randriamialison
All the volunteer staff from the Nevada-Utah Conference Youth Department being introduced for the first time to the rest of the attendees.
We are discipling the leaders of today and tomorrow." These words from Delberth Castillo, the Nevada-Utah Conference’s interim Youth Director, set the tone for the Club Ministry Leadership Summit held October 25-27, 2024, in West Jordan, Utah. The event brought together club ministry leaders from across Nevada and Utah, with participants representing Pathfinder, Adventurer, Teen Leaders in Training, and Master Guide ministries. The weekend was filled with workshops, fellowship, and encouragement as leaders exchanged ideas and strategies for guiding young people in faith. “I am a product of the club ministries myself, and I know firsthand the importance of this mission,” Delberth added.
Cris Cazarine sharing how love changed her atheistic perspective and brought her to God
Keynote speaker Cris Cazarine, a newly published author and respected pastor, shared her powerful journey from atheism to faith. Her story, detailed in her book “Broken By Love: The Story of an Atheist Turned Pastor”, spoke to the influence of compassion and non-judgmental acceptance on her path to knowing God. "It was the love and welcome of a Christian woman, who embraced me and my friends without judgment, that allowed me to begin to believe,” Cris shared, reflecting on a difficult upbringing that initially led her to question the existence of God. She said: “We need to learn how to embrace kids Her testimony struck a chord with attendees, showing the transformative power of love, faith, and community.
Master Guide Class sharing notes during the Communication Skills class.
One of the Adventurer Club Directors taking notes during one of the workshops
The summit also offered workshops focused on practical skills like communication, leadership, and teaching, each woven with biblical principles. Club leaders received tools to support and connect with the young people they serve. "Youth ministry can sometimes be hard, but what you pour into these young people will forever be a part of their journey," said Randy Hill, Pacific Union Vice President for Youth Ministry, encouraging leaders to stay steadfast in their efforts.
The 2024 Club Ministry Leadership Summit emphasized the vital role of ministry leaders in shaping lives with faith, resilience, and purpose, equipping them to support the next generation of leaders across Nevada and Utah.
The Power of Prayer: Uniting the Las Vegas Community in Faith
By Jack Darrow III
Pastor Angel Heredia, leading a small group in prayer
Prayer is a powerful force. It gives strength to persevere through both trials and triumphs, lighting the path forward. When we come together in prayer, we not only open our hearts to the Lord but also deepen our bonds with one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. On September 7th, the Las Vegas community witnessed this power at the first Las Vegas Prayer Rally held at Maranatha SDA Church.
Pastor Peter Neri, reading a promise from the Bible while Pastor Rodolfo Paredes translates it into Spanish. Also on the platform, from left to right, Pastor Ramon Verduzco and Pastor Melody Darrow
This event welcomed attendees from across the valley, embracing diversity by offering accommodations for English, Spanish, and Korean speakers. The attendees were divided into small groups led by the Pastors. Each group was praying for unity and for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit
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“We invite everyone to mark their calendars, spread the word, and come witness the strength and unity that prayer brings.” Melody Darrow, Southern Nevada Ministerial Coordinator.
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One of the attendees kneeling to pray. All preferred postures of prayer were welcomed
The rally is part of a larger vision to unite the Las Vegas area churches in preparation for Pentecost 2025. The rally was just the beginning of a series that will continue to bring the community together in prayer. The last one will be on January 3rd-4th, 2025 – Hosted by Vegas Valley Adventist Academy, kicking off the new year.
Attendees praying individually in silence
No matter the church or location in the valley, each rally offers a unique opportunity to experience the Power of Prayer.