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.
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.
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.
Story by Stephen Lee
Yuri Stefanny Bayern and her husband, Yeiferson Trujillo, along with their children, Valentina, Salome and Maximiliano, recently sealed their commitment to Christ through baptism at the Paterson South Spanish church.
Story by Barbara Delaney and Elayna Barnhill Moffitt, Mission Trip Coordinator Team Members