Each year from September 15 to October 15, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month. This is the month we take time to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions who have inspired others to achieve success. The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan to cover a 30-day period. In the Pacific Union, nearly one fourth of our total membership is Hispanic. We have 225 Hispanic churches and companies, with over 50,000 members.
Hispanic Heritage Month:
hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about
Hispanic Ministries – Pacific Union Conference
adventistfaith.com/ministries/hispanic-ministries
The September Recorder is in your homes and available online; and the latest Spanish Recorder is available at Hispanic churches and online.
September 2022 Recorder:
issuu.com/pacificunionrecorder/docs/0922recorder
Spanish Recorder:
issuu.com/pacificunionrecorder/docs/verano_summer_22
In their continuing series on mission, vision, values, and strategic objectives in the Southern California Conference, this recent video on “Developing Extravagant Givers” was so inspiring to me. Kathleen Diaz, Treasurer/CFO of the Southern California Conference, talks about how to give extravagantly. “When Jesus was on earth, He came to challenge our way of thinking,” she said. How can you experience the power of faith-led giving in your own life? Watch to learn more.
youtube.com/watch?v=VF8eMy_anB8
In the Northern California Conference, Marlene Rodriguez, associate pastor of the Gracepoint Adventist church, was ordained on Sabbath, July 9. Executive Secretary Jose Marin said, “The service was a simple and a beautiful affirmation of God’s calling of Pastor Rodriguez, the first Latina woman to be ordained in our territory.”
On September 1, 2022, longtime pastor, professor, and author Alfonso Valenzuela passed to his rest after a long illness. Details of his incredible life of service and tributes from colleagues and friends are included in the October Recorder. Pastor Alfonso Valenzuela is survived by his wife, Jeanine; their two children, Veruschka and Alan; four beloved grandchildren; his brothers, Abdiel and Alberto; and his sisters Alma and Adriana.
October 2022 Recorder:
issuu.com/pacificunionrecorder/docs/1022recorder (pg. 23-26)
