Transformative Mission Trip
By Ken Miller
In a remarkable demonstration of faith and service, over 60 pastors, workers, and family members from the Northern California Conference journeyed to Southern Mindanao in the Philippines from June 20 to July 1.
Responding to an invitation from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, the mission trip was a profoundly impactful endeavor for both the residents of Southern Mindanao and the participating pastors, laypeople, and their families. Ron Yabut, pastor of the Anderson church, explained, “The pastors, speaking in 24 different churches, encountered an abundance of first-time listeners, and the Holy Spirit moved, sowing seeds, changing hearts, and leading 1,720 souls to baptism.”
“The main language of communication between our group and the Filipino people was love expressed through deeds of kindness,” said Sasa Andelkovic, pastor of the Sacramento Yugoslavian church. “I realized from this experience that I must reciprocate in kind, that I must preach about the goodness of God, and I must do so through service as well. People wonderfully responded to our ministry, but they also ministered back to us. It was a wonderful exchange of God’s love.”
Josie Asencio, pastor of the Antioch church, stated, “It is always a blessing to introduce a community to women pastors. It is a difficult responsibility to steward, and God gave me the opportunity to show how He is using women for His glory in a place that does not have women pastors. I am humbled that the Holy Spirit let me demonstrate that He can work through female pastors.”
Faithful Service Creates Trust and Abundance
By Communication Staff
At Concord International church, abundance is joyfully measured by the number of families they serve weekly. Every Thursday, about 70 enthusiastic volunteers from the church and local community come together to create a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere, providing groceries to over 700 individuals. This weekly gathering has become a beacon of hope and connection, where the spirit of giving thrives.
Since 2020, the food pantry has blossomed into a beloved weekly event that brings the community together. What started as a small act of faith has grown into a dependable ministry feeding hundreds. Co-director Scott Groschel shared, “We’re helping people make a difference in their lives. Many face tough choices between paying for food, electricity, or gas to get to work. Here, they don’t have to make that hard decision—they can find nutritious food and a sense of relief.”
The pantry’s success is built on a foundation of generosity and partnerships with local food banks, Costco, and Safeway. Groschel continued, “This is more than just a place to get food—it’s a community. People come here and make friends while they shop. It’s wonderful to see how faith and kindness bring people together.” The pantry’s dedication to service has even garnered recognition, earning them an award from the Foodbank of Contra Costa and Solano and support from local city council members.
Gigi Groschel, the director, is grateful for the blessings poured into this ministry. “God has blessed this ministry far beyond what we ever imagined, allowing us to reach so many more people in need,” she said, her voice full of joy. “We have countless opportunities to share with each person about the God we serve, and we can see the Holy Spirit working in their lives. It’s truly incredible to witness God’s amazing work!”
