Orangevale Junior High’s Impactful Week of Prayer
By Lian Funada
In a remarkable display of faith and leadership, Orangevale Adventist School junior high students recently took on specific roles in their spiritual journey. They led a week of prayer that left a lasting impact on their school community. From managing AV equipment to delivering inspiring worship messages, these young individuals demonstrated remarkable maturity and dedication.
There was increased interest in Bible study in the classroom, resulting in 10 baptisms during this special week of prayer. At the end of the school year, 60 out of 105 students actively participated in optional weekly Bible study and baptismal classes led by students. Reflecting on her experience, eighth-grade student Sammie Chaplin shared, “I liked talking to the kids and praying with them,” highlighting the meaningful connections made during the week of prayer. A seventh-grade student, Bela Stay, added, “It was fun!”
The week’s impact extended far beyond the event itself. It served as a testament to the power of young people to lead and inspire others. Through their actions, these students strengthened their faith and served as beacons of light for their peers.
Chicken or Egg? How About Both?
By Ken Miller
Foothills Elementary Kindergarten through second grade students had the opportunity to witness something unique during the spring: hatching chicks! A generous surprise donation of chickens was given to the school, and the teachers decided to take full advantage of the situation. After a crash course in chicken development stages and identification of the breeds, the teachers were ready.
Tammy Priest, the teacher responsible for the project, was thrilled with the results. With guidance and supervision, the students watched over time as 17 new chicks hatched and began to grow right before their eyes. They participated in feeding the hatchlings, ensuring they received the proper nutrients and keeping them safe and comfortable in the classrooms.
Through this unique and hands-on experience, the students gained a newfound appreciation for the wonders of nature and the miracle of life. Seeing these tiny creatures’ growth stages firsthand was a valuable learning experience. The children also developed their nurturing, observation, record-keeping, and teamwork skills as a class.
Priest concluded, “Overall, this project was a huge success and a wonderful learning opportunity for the students and the teachers involved. It continues to reinforce for we educators that sometimes the best learning experiences are the most unexpected.”
Jonas Baca Installed
By Communication Staff
Jonas Baca was installed on April 13 as the new district pastor of the San Leandro Spanish church and Richmond Spanish company. Baca has worked extensively in Honduras and Costa Rica, helping to establish several church plants before moving to the United States. Baca explained, “I have a deep passion for reaching souls and bringing them to Jesus. Much of my zeal is for training and equipping lay members to plant and grow community churches. I thank God, the NCC, the San Leandro Spanish church, and Richmond Spanish company for opening their arms with sincere hearts full of gratitude and love.”
Paul Guevara, Hispanic Ministries coordinator, stated, “Pastor Roca brings a vibrance to the San Leandro and Richmond Spanish churches. He is a proven church builder and embodies our core values, leading people to an abundant life in Jesus Christ.”
