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God’s Gift to Us

Dan Kiefer/Unsplash

Editorial by Carl Rodriguez

Many gift-giving traditions occur during Christmas in North America. Each family that celebrates the event has their own historical and cultural basis for the exchange of presents.

Even the Magi in the time of Christ’s birth gave gifts to show appreciation for the bountiful blessings God had bestowed on them. Matthew 2:11 records this event: “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh” (NIV).

A Legacy of Faithful Service

A Legacy of Faithful Service, Lake Nelson, New Jersey Conference

Story by Ashley Boggess

 

 

 

 

At Lake Nelson Adventist Academy (LNAA), teaching is more than a profession—it is a ministry. Each classroom is a sanctuary where God’s calling and purpose meet daily instruction. The teachers are mentors and spiritual guides who have embraced their role as a lifelong mission.

Couples Declare Marriage Is ‘Better With You’

Couples Declare Marriage Is ‘Better With You’ , New Jersey Conference, Abdiel del Toro, Esther Cruz, Orlando Cruz, Chesapeake Conference Hispanic Ministries,

Story by Carlos Torres, Family Ministries Director

Themed “Better With You,” the Family Ministries Department held the 2025 Couples’ Retreat this summer, in partnership with Chesapeake Conference’s Hispanic Ministries Department. The gathering brought together 86 couples who were richly blessed by devotionals from Pastor Abdiel del Toro and inspiring seminars led by Esther and Orlando Cruz. Together, they offered spiritual and practical insights for strengthening marriages.

New Jersey Conference Mourns Passing of Former President

Story by New Jersey Conference Staff

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pastor LeRoy Finck, former president of the New Jersey Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Pastor Finck passed away on October 27, 2025, after a lifetime devoted to ministry, leadership, and service to the Lord. His unwavering faith and dedication to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Pastor Finck is survived by his beloved wife, Marjorie, his son Kevin, and his daughter Christi. From 2000 to 2007, Pastor Finck served as President of the New Jersey Conference, and for a short time thereafter as Executive Secretary. "His administration was marked by spiritual integrity, thoughtful stewardship, and genuine care for pastors, members, and ministries across New Jersey," said Elder Jose Cortes (pictured with his wife, Celia, on the right; Jim and Joyce Greene, on the left; and the Fincks, center) who served alongside him as executive secretary and later as conference president.

From a Small Group to a New Life

From a Small Group to a New Life, New Jersey Conference, First Filipino church, E. Jardiniano, Rafael Monteiro

Story by Stephen Lee

Just one year ago, the First Filipino church launched a Hispanic/Latino ministry to serve its growing Spanish-speaking community. E. Jardiniano, senior pastor, and Rafael Monteiro, volunteer lay pastor, began small Sabbath afternoon gatherings focusing on prayer, Bible study and personal testimony.