Chico von Pohle Passes Away
We are very sorry to report that Chico von Pohle, former plant services director at the NCC office, passed away on Oct. 19.
During his career, von Pohle worked at Columbia Adventist Academy and San Pasqual Academy, among other places, before serving in the NCC office from 2005 until his retirement in 2018.
For many years he co-taught a Sabbath School class at the Napa Community church, and he enjoyed playing his trumpet in the church orchestra. “Chico – with his big smile – was always such a fun guy to be around,” said Marvin Wray, former longtime Napa church pastor. “I will forever miss his big bear hugs and his willingness to do anything he could do to help either my wife or myself.”
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Famous for his love of golf, von Pohle gave free lessons to coworkers in the evenings and on weekends. “Chico really enjoyed connecting with people, and he made friends easily,” said Jim Lorenz, ministerial director. “When I’d go to lunch with him, the servers at the restaurant would greet him by name.”
He is survived by his wife, Berit, who serves as Pacific Union Conference director of education; daughter and son-in-law, Brooke and Kyle Lemmon; and two granddaughters.
President Marc Woodson has been friends with both the von Pohles for many years. “I’m really saddened by the loss of my friend and brother Chico,” said Woodson. “He was a true servant of God. He will be missed by so many for his helpfulness, generous spirit, passionate love of God, and loyal friendship. I’m looking forward to seeing him again when Christ calls His redeemed to eternal life with Him. Oh what a blessed day that will be!!”
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Directors Retreat
This week, NCC administrators and directors spent several days at Leoni Meadows for a social-distanced spiritual retreat led by Jon Ciccarelli, Southeastern California Conference ministerial director. Carmichael church Associate Pastor Melissa Howell gave the devotional message each day.
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Hope Rises from the Ashes!
The land is blackened, and the trees are charred. Only chimneys are left standing where homes used to be, but the communities are pulling together and starting to heal.
The 62 donors who stepped up in a time of need have helped 99 families who have been identified so far during this very difficult time with the $19,585 raised to date.
The money has helped not only those who lost their homes, but those who lost their employment due to burned vineyards and businesses. One recipient told Napa Spanish/St. Helena Spanish district Pastor José Díaz, “Con lagrimas en los ojos quiero agradecerles a todos por la generosidad.” (“With tears in my eyes, I wish to thank everyone for their generosity.”)
Some donors were impacted by past fires and felt the need to help others like themselves. “Our donors are an amazing group of caring and compassionate individuals,” said Laurie Trujillo, director of communication and development. “Again, thanks to our donors, the NCC has been able to help those who we know are in need.”
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Iva Jayme Engages Her Calling to Ministry
Since late spring, eighth grader Iva Jayme has engaged her calling to ministry each week by serving as the Zoom host of the Pleasant Hill church’s Junior Sabbath School class.
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Iva attends her Earliteen class on Friday evenings, but she is always waiting on Sabbath morning to admit the kids and teachers into the online Junior class. “What I enjoy most is observing what everyone is doing during an activity, a lesson, etc.,” she said. “I also like to talk to people by using the chat feature during the meeting.”
The teachers rely on Iva to help them learn to use the Zoom tools. “The most challenging thing is helping someone if they don't know what to do or how things work,” she said.
Her assistance is invaluable. “Because of Iva, we can focus on the lessons and the kids, rather than having to worry about the technical issues,” said teacher Julie Lorenz. “She also sets a good example for the Juniors by actively participating. We really appreciate her ministry!”
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We Still Believe!
Don’t miss “We Still Believe,” a series of online conference-wide prayer and praise meetings coming Nov. 4-7. Speakers will include Pleasant Hill church Youth Pastor Miguel Verazas, Carmichael church Associate Pastor Melissa Howell, and Fremont/Livermore district Pastor Sean Kim. President Marc Woodson will give the final sermon, followed by a video presentation of the NCC midterm report. Music will be provided by NCC students. Don’t miss this time of inspiration and solidarity as we come together as a conference family to praise God and encourage each other!
Watch it on the NCC Facebook page Northern California Adventists in Action or the YouTube channel NCCSDA. The meetings can also be connected to your local church Facebook page. Contact julie.lorenz@nccsda.com to learn more about making the connection.
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Adventist Book Center
At our NCC ABC, find Worthington Dinner Roast on sale for $11.99 each or $67 for a case of six. Click here to see other food specials.
During the next month, the NCC Adventist Book Center will be making pre-paid drop-offs throughout the conference, as well as several places in Nevada. Find out more!
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Prayer Call
Join the NCC Prayer Line every Thursday morning from 7-8 a.m. Call 1-916-637-8111, and use code 669648#.
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Enjoying “Northern Lights”? Invite others to sign up by forwarding this issue. |
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Northern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
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