Azure Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church

Pastor Daniel kicks off Azure Hills' summer series "The Narrow Way" with Matthew 5:1–12—Jesus' most iconic and subversive teaching. Though it spans just three chapters (Matthew 5–7), the Sermon on the Mount completely redefines what it means to live a good life. What if blessing doesn't look like success? What if the kingdom belongs not to the strong but to the poor in spirit? In a world chasing power, applause, and performance, Jesus offers something radically different. He invites us into the narrow way—not a rigid or rule-heavy path, but the Jesus way—a way marked by mercy, honesty, courage, justice, and deep trust in a God who draws near to the broken.

We are excited to have Dr. Gilbert Valentine as our guest speaker! Dr. Valentine is a respected Adventist scholar and educator who, even in retirement, continues to teach occasionally at the H.M.S. Richards Divinity School at La Sierra University in California. Originally from New Zealand, Dr. Valentine has served the Adventist Church in pastoral ministry, youth leadership, and higher education around the world—including in Pakistan, England, Thailand, Australia, and his home country. He is widely recognized for his work in Adventist history and Ellen White studies. His writings include several major biographies and books exploring the development of Adventist thought, leadership, and prophetic identity. His forthcoming biography of theologian Edward Heppenstall is expected to be released by Pacific Press this summer. Dr. Valentine is also a beloved member of our Azure Hills Church family. He and his wife, Dr. Kendra Haloviak Valentine, live in Riverside, where he enjoys cycling through the citrus groves near their home. The title of Dr. Valentine's message this is “Beware the Travel Brochure." Here's a preview: "Sometimes our experience at a destination does not match what the glossy travel brochures promised. What do we do when that reflects our experience in the church? The assurance that Jesus is the builder of the church assures us that though the development process might at times be messy and uncomfortable, the community being built is strong. Jesus is an experienced builder. What can we learn from Jesus' confidence in the future of the church?" - Dr. Gilbert Valentine

This week's message walks us through Daniel chapter 6—but not just as a story about lions and deliverance. We'll uncover how this ancient story points directly to Jesus, the One who was consumed so that we could be saved. We'll also reflect on how unjust systems—then and now—target those who seek peace, justice, and truth. In a world full of modern-day lion's dens, we are reminded: "our God is still mighty to save."

For our Diversity Sabbath this year, we're honored to have Dr. Jonathan Park, president of our Southeastern California Conference, as our guest speaker! Elder Park was born in Korea and came to the United States when he was young. He has always wanted to be a pastor, and God has graciously made his dream come true. He is married to Ashley, has three children, and knows he is very blessed. He currently serves in the role of the President of the Southeastern California Conference. He has had the privilege of serving as a local church pastor for several churches for the past 30+ years. His sermon is entitled, "Highest Calling." “The fulfillment of the highest calling experience depends on who you look at.” - Dr. Jonathan Park

Pastor Sabina Vieira will share the message entitled “Naming God: The Legacy of Encounter,” where she will explore the powerful story of an unexpected mother who will challenge the ways we think about legacy and discipleship.

Elder Caleb VinCross preached a sermon titled, "Neither!, the best bad news we need to hear today." You are invited into the presence of God, a place where all belong. Caleb VinCross is a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, educator, and board certified healthcare chaplain. Caleb has a passion for creating space for people to learn, grow, and authentically express their thoughts and feelings. Caleb joins his wife Tara, son Josiah, and daughter Ava on their many adventures in ministry and beyond. He currently serves veterans and their families, focusing on providing support for severe mental illness, substance use, grief, and moral injury.

Jesus resurrects and doesn't immediately ascend; He stays with His disciples for a few weeks longer. John 21 is a reminder that good things don't have to be rushed. It's a story that reveals the pathway to forgiveness and is an invitation to participate in the healing of a fractured world.   Pastor Gabriel Morales will share a sermon called, “The Breakfast Club.”

Final words have weight and meaning. The Scriptures share the final words of Jesus, poignant words spoken from the cross. “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” “Amen, I say to you today, you will be with me in Paradise” “Woman, behold, your son….Behold, your mother.” “I thirst.” “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” “It is finished.” “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Before we move into celebrating the resurrection, together we meditate on these sacred words. The Azure Hills Pastoral Staff will share short messages on the last words of Jesus. We invite you to take in the depth of the love and sacrifice of Jesus. John 10:18 says, "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.”

Revelation testifies that death and suffering, pain and sadness will not always be a part of our story. The Sabbath is a gift now, and a reminder of this hope that is to come. We rest in God's grace, we cease from our labors, we embrace a subversive way of life, and we feast in God's presence. Living in Sabbath rhythm gives structured time for joy and reminds us of all that is to come. For six days we do, we work, we create, we build… The seventh day, we remember the joy of the Lord and how we will spend eternity. Pastor Tara VinCross will conclude our sermon series, "Sabbath, a Pathway of Grace," Part 4: “Feasting.”

What if the Sabbath was never meant to be just a day off work—but a way of life? A way to remember who we are, who God is, and what truly matters. This Sabbath, we'll explore how God's gift of rest not only renews our souls but empowers us to resist the pressures of Pharaohs—both past and present. Sabbath is a calling we are asked to embrace! Pastor Daniel Xisto will continue the sermon series, Sabbath, a Pathway of Grace, Part 3: “Sabbath as Resistance."

For six days we do, we work, we create, we build… at times, we worry. The seventh day, we cease. We rest. We reflect. We embrace a different way of life. We feast, and as we do remember our hope for the future. The Sabbath is a sign of our dependence on the grace of God in our lives. By living in Sabbath rhythm, we choose to live a life of trust, walking on the pathway of grace. Pastor Tara VinCross continues the sermon series, Sabbath, a Pathway of Grace, Part 2: “Resting."

“For this nation living on the edge, there is an ancient prophecy about America we can no longer forget or ignore. That it has Jesus' fingerprints all over it makes its news both good and urgent. American Apocalypse—Counting Down is an invitation to follow the One we can count on. Especially now.”- Dr. Dwight Nelson We welcome our guest speaker, Dr. Dwight Nelson. He is joining us for three presentations. The theme: “American Apocalypse: Counting Down.”

“For this nation living on the edge, there is an ancient prophecy about America we can no longer forget or ignore. That it has Jesus' fingerprints all over it makes its news both good and urgent. American Apocalypse—Counting Down is an invitation to follow the One we can count on. Especially now.”- Dr. Dwight Nelson We welcome our guest speaker, Dr. Dwight Nelson. He is joining us for three presentations. The theme: “American Apocalypse: Counting Down.”

“For this nation living on the edge, there is an ancient prophecy about America we can no longer forget or ignore. That it has Jesus' fingerprints all over it makes its news both good and urgent. American Apocalypse—Counting Down is an invitation to follow the One we can count on. Especially now.”- Dr. Dwight Nelson We welcome our guest speaker, Dr. Dwight Nelson. He is joining us for three presentations. The theme: “American Apocalypse: Counting Down.”

For six days we do, we work, we create, we build… at times we worry. The seventh day, we rest. We stop. We notice. We reflect. We receive. The Sabbath is a sign of our dependence on the grace of God in our lives. By living in Sabbath rhythm, we choose to live a life of trust, walking on the pathway of grace. Pastor Tara VinCross will start a sermon series, "Sabbath, a Pathway of Grace," Part 1: “Ceasing."

Our Adventurers and Pathfinders are leading in our worship at Azure Hills Church. In spoken word and music, scripture and prayer, our kids and youth will be blessing all ages! At our 11:45am worship service, Pathfinders have thoughtfully prepared our worship service. The sermon will be presented by Katie Knapp, Kaitlyn Bathini, Elisheva Ntim, Zaira Zarazua, and IJ Muncio.

Our Adventurers and Pathfinders are leading in our worship at Azure Hills Church. In spoken word and music, scripture and prayer, our kids and youth will be blessing all ages! At our 9am service, Adventurers will lead our worship. The sermon will be presented by: Danilyn Mason, Liam Davis, David Fargo, Eliana Ntim, and Ali Knapp.

God gives grace extravagantly. He saves the undeserving and gives blessings to both the just and the unjust. It is by God's grace that we enjoy the blessings of this church--our community of faith. Life in the kingdom of grace—it's more than any of us deserve! Not everyone, however, is happy about God's extravagance. Why waste the resources of heaven on those who don't appreciate it? Why risk offending the faithful by rewarding those who don't do their part? Jesus told a parable about jealous workers who asked those kinds of questions. Pastor Mike Leno will explore the meaning of Jesus' parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Does the message of that parable apply to us today? Let's find out together.

On average, people live around 27,000 days. As many know, some get more time, some less. In addition to time, each person is given talents and resources, all three in different proportions. Still, each person is given something to share with the world. Stewardship is caring for what has been entrusted to you. Firstfruits, tithe, and offering were all invitations to grow a spirit of generosity in us. The question is, what will you do with what has been entrusted to your care? Pastor Tara VinCross will share a sermon called, “You're a Piece of Work.” We invite you to worship, experiencing the renewal found in the presence of God.

We welcome our guest speaker, La Sierra University President, Dr. Christon Arthur! Prior to his arrival at La Sierra, Arthur served in multiple roles at Andrews University; as provost from 2016-2024, dean of the School of Graduate Studies & Research from 2010-2016, and as associate provost from 2012-2016. Prior to coming to Andrews University, Arthur served as an associate professor of Educational Administration and Associate Dean of the College of Education, at Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee. He is married to Carmelita, and they have one adult son, Christon Arthur Jr.

We welcome our guest speaker, Pastor Alfonzo Greene III! He was born in Berrien Springs, Michigan and is a product of Christian education. He is a graduate of Oakwood University, in Huntsville, AL where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Theology. He also has a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry in Missional Church Leadership from the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. Pastor Greene is an adjunct professor at Oakwood University. He began his pastoral ministry in South-Central Conference in January 2004, where he pastored the Springfield/Clarksville/ Gallatin, TN district. He then pastored the Maranatha and First SDA Churches in Tuscaloosa and Eutaw, AL. For 10 years, he served as the administrative pastor of the First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Huntsville, AL and campus pastor at the Bridge a campus of that church. In 2021, he accepted a call to serve as the Lead Pastor of the Mt. Rubidoux SDA Church in Riverside, CA. Pastor Greene is happily married to his high school sweetheart, the former Mary Okike, also a graduate of Oakwood University. Their marriage began on July 4, 2004 and they have added five beautiful children to their union: Chimere, Alfonzo Joseph (AJ), Ikenna, Caleb, and Shiloh. His greatest desire is that his life will bring glory to God. “What if your greatest breakthrough is on the other side of your biggest limitation? In “It's Time to Stretch,” we'll see how Jesus called a man with a withered hand to step beyond his comfort zone and into healing by faith. Don't hold back—God is ready to stretch you into new possibilities!” - Pastor Alfonzo Greene III

"Moving is rarely an enjoyable task. Managing boxes, deciding what will fit in a new space, and letting go of things—and people—you hold dear can be both physically exhausting and emotionally challenging. In our walk with God, we often face a similar challenge—an invitation to make space for something greater. But that's not always easy. So, how do we create room for Him? Join us this Sabbath as we explore Luke 5:27-33 and discover the powerful and sometimes unexpected blessings of living a journey that makes room for God. I will share personal insights from my own journey, revealing how this process can be both difficult and transformative." -Pastor Sabina Vieira

Start the New Year with Purpose! Pastor Daniel Xisto will kick off the new year by exploring how we can bring hope and love to a world that desperately needs it. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus reminds us that we are meant to be a positive force in our communities—illuminating the path for others through our compassion. As we step into 2025, let's reflect on what it means to live with purpose, to make a difference, and to embody the values of kindness, justice, and care for those around us. This message will encourage and challenge you to step boldly into the year ahead with faith and love as your foundation. Let's begin this journey together!

God will not let go of creation - precious human beings made in God's image. Even though we sinned, scorned, and rejected Him, He chose to enter into this world, and made our planet Earth a place visited by the God of all the universe. God settles the cosmic conflict through the strength of God's love for us - and an invitation to commune with God. The greatest gift God gives us is the light of communion with God. Pastor Tara VinCross will share a sermon called, “The Light of Communion.”

Christmas carols invite us to sing of love and freedom, peace and adoration. That's what we all want, isn't it? Freedom from the worry, guilt, fear, and terror that seem to press in upon us. The opportunity to bow down in praise to the One who is with us, whose light dawns in all of our hearts. We can hardly imagine it, yet Jesus promises to be the Source of this light and peace for each one of us.  Our Pastoral Team will share reflections on their favorite Christmas Carols, hymns that lift our hearts in worship. From our hearts to yours, together let us focus on the Light of the World, our Emmanuel. Let's recapture the wonder of worshipping our God. 

Every year at this time Azure Hills presents a musical worship celebration of Jesus' birth. The theme this Sabbath is, “The Light of Christmas.” We will hear music performed by the Cherub Choir, the Children's Choir, Gospel Choir, Chorale, Ladies' Chorus, Orchestra, the Youth, the Indonesian Male Chorus, and pianists Joel and Justin Oswari. Don Charboneau, Lisa Davidson, and Caleb VinCross will narrate, and Pastor Tara VinCross will present a message. The program will conclude with Handel's Hallelujah Chorus, for which the audience will be invited to join.

Advent is preparation for Christmas; anticipation, not celebration. There is a work being done in the secret place. Emmanuel, knit together in human flesh in the hidden place of the womb.  The darkness has always been a space where God works in might and power, creativity and creation. The space where God brings forth something new. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. - Genesis 1:2 The people living in darkness have seen a great light…a light has dawned. - Matthew 4:16   Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Gift of Darkness and Light.

Gratefulness Sabbath is a time of testifying of God's blessings, lifting our voices in praise, and celebrating our mission projects.

What if the moments of your deepest pain are the very places where Jesus draws closest? As Thanksgiving weekend approaches, and we prepare to gather around tables with family and friends to share meals and stories, this Sabbath we'll explore a sacred encounter Jesus had ‘at the table'. In Luke 24:13-32, two heartbroken followers of Jesus discover hope and healing in His presence. Come and experience how Jesus transformed their sorrow into joy—and how He can do the same for you!

The enemy tries to intimidate. At times you feel weak, powerless, vulnerable. Yet the truth is, you are not alone. That doesn't mean we always feel the strength that we have. Poet Elisabeth Elliot writes that, "Sometimes fear does not subside and one must choose to do it afraid.” This is courage. The Word of God and prayer are two powerful weapons that God has given us to take up courageously in the fight. As we seek God, God fills us with courage to believe the Word of God spoken over our lives, families, and communities. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, "The Sword of the Spirit and the Power of Prayer - The Armor of God," pt. 7.

Join us as Azure Hills Church celebrates 60 years of ministry on January 17-19! Here's a special message from our senior pastor, Pastor Tara VinCross, sharing a glimpse of the joy and inspiration awaiting us during this milestone weekend. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." -Ephesians 6:17, NIV. In warfare, the helmet and the sword were the last two pieces of armor picked up by the soldier. After fastening the rest of the armor on, the helmet, which was hot and uncomfortable, would be placed on just before heading off, protecting the soldier in battle. Often the believer's battle with the enemy takes place in the mind. The helmet of salvation protects us, giving us safety and assurance as we fight. Salvation is more than something off in the future, it affects our lives today. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Helmet of Salvation - The Armor of God, pt. 6.

The most frequently used word in this section on the armor of God is stand. The Scripture even compels us, put on the full armor of God so that "you may be able to stand your ground,” then it for emphasis, "and after you have done everything, to stand.” The enemy works to throw off our faith, using other people and situations to cause us to stumble. We are flooded with discouragement, temptation, and even numbness. But we aren't meant to do this alone. We see in this study of the shield of faith this truth: we stand strongest in our faith when we stand together. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Shield of Faith - The Armor of God, pt. 5. In this message we learn again how essential community is in the journey of faith.

I'm wondering, what is throwing off your peace this week? Have you faced difficulties, stresses, or relational struggles that have caused you to fear? Life is not easy. We must wear the right footwear for the journey. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace - The Armor of God, pt. 4. With shoes fastened in readiness of the gospel of peace, you don't have to worry about losing your footing. You can move out through tough terrain, knowing your peace will hold, firm and secure.

Every day you're a part of a spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 says, “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood…” Yes, the struggle is real. This is how it is here on this earth, yet in this struggle, God has provided everything we need for protection. The Breastplate of Righteousness, held by the belt of truth, provides vital covering. Come and find out more about how we can put on this protection and live differently as a result. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Breastplate of Righteousness - The Armor of God, pt. 3. This word will leave us all singing a song of hope, filled with deep gratitude for our Savior Jesus!

One of the devil's favorite weapons is lies. He distorts the truth, and makes it hard for us to see things as they really are. Yet, as we stand in God's armor, we are surrounded by the belt of truth. God gives us discernment and wisdom to know the Truth. As we know and live in the truth, we are set free.   Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, The Belt of Truth - The Armor of God, pt. 2.

Ephesians 6:12 says, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world...” The very next verse says, "therefore put on the full armor of God…" There is a battle going on. Are we living in awareness of this battle? This fall, we begin a new series on the Armor of God. We look to the One who stood firm under enemy attack and overcame. Jesus, the One who fought for our salvation and stood strong under pressure. Together, we remember that because of our union with Jesus we too, can stand. We are clothed in his armor, protected by his power, strengthened by his service, and enabled by the Holy Spirit. Pastor Tara VinCross will offer a message titled, Stand in the Armor of God, pt. 1.

We're excited to welcome our guest speaker Pastor Raewyn Orlich! She serves as associate pastor for discipleship and nurture at the La Sierra University Church. In her book, “In Grandpa's Shoes: An Invitation to Intergenerational Connection,” she shares how her grandfather, Eric Webster (pastor and ultra-marathon runner) helped inspire her ministry and provides reflection questions for small groups. She and her physician-poet husband, Michael, are raising three members of Generation Alpha: Eleanor, Eric, and Desmond. "What's your favorite song, the song you would most like to share with people from different generations? Why is it important to you? This Sabbath we look at an ancient Hebrew song, Psalm 145, that was used to teach the faith, exploring what it says is the most important to share." - Pastor Orlich

We have come to the end of the story of the book of Mark and here we find the greatest miracle of all. We remember that in our own lives, “Healing and redemption are all about allowing, receiving, and creating space for the Wonder-Worker to move… We don't make the miracle,” says Arianne Braithwaite Lehn. Braithwaite Lehn goes on to say, “And when we're still in the place of the broken, sad, hard thing, the one promise we can know for sure is… God's not done.” This is the promise we can hold to in our own lives, for those we care about, and for our world. Pastor Tara VinCross will share a message titled “The Greatest Miracle.”

Life if full of highs and lows. There's no escaping it. As Kahlil Gibran says, "Is not the cup that holds your wine the very cup that was burned in the potter's oven? And is not the lute that soothes your spirit, the very wood that was hollowed with knives?" We look upon the One who experienced the depths of human joy and sorrow. Pastor Tara VinCross will share a message titled “Sweetness and Suffering.”

At the end of Mark 13, Jesus says "Watch!" and our natural instinct is to think that it's external; that what we need to watch for is something that we see. But what if it's an internal matter? What if the crux of what Jesus was describing was inward? Join in as we unpack from the topic "Watch, In."

We are excited to welcome our guest speaker, Elder Will Penick, to Azure Hills. He is the Ministerial Director at the Southeastern California Conference (SECC). Will loves Jesus and is blessed to serve our pastors in SECC. He has a passion to share the gospel in a divisive public space and encourages the church in growing as disciples, not just members. Will currently is living in Riverside with his amazing wife, Connie, and their daughter, Ariella, and son, Liam. He enjoys sports (Go Warriors), good food, and spending time with his family in his free time and a little golf when he can fit it in.   The New Testament scholar for everyone, NT Wright, spelled out the human predicament. “God has always wanted us; the question is do we want God?” We have a choice to hold onto the vineyard we protect or the answers we already have or be open to the new possibilities that are found in Christ. -Elder Will Penick Ministerial Director, SECC

Pastor Daniel Xisto, our new administrative pastor, shares his first message with our church family where he will invite us to explore the triumphant entry of Jesus in Mark 11. We will consider the crowd's cry of "Hosanna!" We'll delve into the deep significance of this moment, understanding how it reflects our own hopes today. Prepare to reflect on what it truly means to welcome Jesus into our lives with the same joy and anticipation that greeted Him all those years ago!

What keeps people out of the Kingdom of God? Mistakes? Pride? Continual sinning? No, there are plenty of examples in Jesus' ministry of people who did all of those things and more but were forgiven and accepted into the kingdom. Jesus did, however, point out certain people that would have a hard time entering the kingdom of heaven. And when he did that, the disciples, in amazement and disbelief said, “Who then can be saved?” According to Jesus, part of the problem is our human tendency to compare and compete with each other. We think there has to be a pecking order. Surely someone has to be greatest in the kingdom! But what if Jesus' criterion for who is in the kingdom makes us uneasy? It certainly made the disciples uneasy. Pastor Mike Leno explores the stories of Jesus blessing the children and turning away the Rich Young Ruler. In these stories Jesus tells us what sort of kingdom he is offering, and how we can get in on it. With God, all things are possible.

In Mark 9, we find a father who is desperate to get help for his son. He prays a prayer that we've all prayed, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” Because our belief is imperfect we cry out for help. But that cry comes from a place of belief in our good and sovereign God. Faith starts by simply turning toward Jesus. Elder Keturah Reed will share the message, "Imperfect Faith."

In Mark 8, Jesus heals a blind man in Bethsaida. Though Jesus had touched Him once, his eyesight was not fully restored until Jesus touched him a second time. Mark 8 invites us to be dissatisfied with superficial discipleship, and to receive a deeper transformation through the uprooting of our long held assumptions, and by embracing the way of Jesus.

What good did it do for Jesus to walk on water? What good did it do to feed 5000 (or 10k+) people? Those amazing miracles didn't seem to change anything in Jerusalem, or Rome, ...or Washington! Pastor Mike Leno continues the pastors' sermon series on Mark with “Miracles and Misunderstandings.” This message probes the very human tendency to misunderstand Jesus' message about his kingdom. Lest we think the Jewish leaders or even Jesus' followers were the problem, let's consider our own kingdom goals. What kind of Messiah are we looking for? Are we ready to follow? Or do we want to modify Jesus to match our expectations?