New Jersey Conference

Story by Eduardo Monteiro

The New Jersey Conference launched 2026 with its annual Regional Ministries Training, held across its three regions: north, central and south.

The excitement was evident from the start as lay leaders gathered with a shared desire to grow and serve more effectively. Departmental leaders and conference staff led seminars designed to provide practical tools, resources and guidance to strengthen ministry in local churches.

Nearly 1,000 church leaders participated in the training, with more than half attending for the first time.

Building Friendships on the Slopes, New Jersey Conference, Montage Mountain Resorts, Poconos

Story by Carl Rodriguez, Youth Ministries Director

One of New Jersey Conference’s ministry goals is to provide wholesome, year-round recreational opportunities where youth and young adults can invite friends and enjoy themselves. This year, around 240 ski and snowboard enthusiasts gathered at Montage Mountain Resorts in the Poconos for fellowship and to sharpen their skills on the slopes.

Events like the Pathfinder Bible Experience prepare young Seventh-Day Adventist members for being leaders not only in the church, but in their communities and in the world. Read more about the 2026 Columbia Union Conference Pathfinder Bible Experience here. | Video by Jorge Pillco, New Jersey Conference

 

Student missionary Nathan Moravetz hangs out with three church friends in Yap.

Story by Nathan Moravetz

Teaching has always been a big part of my life. My mom, grandma and sister were teachers, so, growing up, I wanted to model after them. Later, I spent five summers working at summer camp and came to realize that the most rewarding part for me was being a positive influence on young people.

After my first two years of college, I took a year off to be a student missionary, working as a boys’ dean in Michigan. But I yearned to serve overseas. One day, my friends and I started a conversation about being teachers on the island of Yap, and before we knew it, we were serving on the small island in the Pacific Ocean.