Pastor Darnisha Thomas was officially commissioned into ministry during a special worship service held on Sabbath, Oct. 26, 2024, at Southview Seventh-day Adventist Church, within the Minnesota Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Church leaders and ministry colleagues affirmed Thomas’ calling and recognized her leadership and service. Karen Lewis, ministerial director for the Minnesota Conference, praised Thomas’ faith and resilience. “I am truly grateful that Pastor Darnisha is part of our conference,” Lewis said. “She is a remarkable young woman whom God has gifted with wisdom, boldness, and spiritual maturity to minister effectively to both children and adults. She courageously walked through some of the most challenging seasons in Minneapolis—during Covid and the George Floyd riots—with dignity, strength, and grace. I remember thinking even then that God had further plans to use her mightily for His glory.” During the commissioning, Dr. Vandeon D. Griffin, associate youth and young adult director for the North American Division, spoke about the meaning of pastoral ministry and the robe Thomas now wears. “The reason why clergy wear robes is that it shifts the focus from the personality of the person to the person of God,” Griffin said. “Darnisha, I charge you in the wearing of this robe to always challenge the people you are called to serve to not look to you but to look to the one you look to—God.” Speakers also thanked Thomas for being an inspiration to young women and girls. One tribute shared, “One day, young girls will say, ‘I want to be a pastor like Pastor Darnisha Thomas.’” The speaker added that this commissioning marks only the beginning of many chapters still to come in her ministry. A special message was shared from Dr. Hyveth Williams, described as a trailblazer and longtime mentor in Thomas’ life. In her message, Dr. Williams congratulated her and said the commissioning reflects faith, wisdom, and perseverance. She said Thomas is stepping into a legacy carried by generations of women of faith and encouraged her to lead with courage and grace. In her own remarks, Thomas thanked Dr. Williams for her mentorship, especially during her early years after graduating from Oakwood University with a theology degree. She shared how seeing a woman pastor in seminary helped her understand how she could serve while remaining true to who God created her to be. She said being a woman pastor has not been easy, but she has worked to advocate for women and girls in ministry. Another tribute came from Pastor Brenda Billingy, who shared that Thomas was the first young girl she met who later followed her into ministry. Billingy recalled beginning her own ministry journey when Thomas was about 10 years old and said God impressed on Thomas’ heart that what He was doing through Billingy, He would also do through her. Over the years, Billingy said Thomas repeatedly confirmed her desire to become a pastor. “I am so grateful that I lived long enough to see God fulfill His word in your life,” she said, congratulating Thomas and welcoming her into the growing legacy of women called by God to ministry. Many friends and leaders were recognized for supporting her through school and ministry. She named teachers, pastors, and friends who stood by her during difficult seasons and encouraged her not to quit. She shared how friends pushed her to finish her Master Guide training when she wanted to walk away. Leaders from the Minnesota Conference were also thanked for their support and for sending others to help continue the work of ministry. Special thanks were given to Pastor Sean Lee, the senior pastor she has worked with for five years. She shared that he supported her through moments of doubt, anxiety, and major ministry challenges. She said he encouraged her voice, celebrated her leadership, and spoke for her in rooms where she was not present. Family members were also recognized during the service, including her parents, sister, and brother. She shared that her father named her “Darnisha,” meaning worthy, even during seasons when she struggled with depression and questioned her value. She said her parents supported her through prayer and never stopped lifting her up. Her sister Whitney was described as a spiritual rock, and her brother Kyle was thanked for standing by her during her early ministry years. She shared how she always made time for him after work, even when tired, to stay connected and present in his life. A strong focus was placed on her ministry with children, teens, and young people. She thanked the youth of Southview and New Hope for loving her and walking with her in ministry. She said their support makes it easier for her to serve and that she is humbled by their trust. She also spoke about her commitment to helping people who have experienced spiritual and religious trauma. With training through the Master of Social Work program at Andrews University, she said she is dedicated to helping people understand the difference between a counterfeit view of God and a God who is loving, kind, and willing to walk with them through pain. Pastor Thomas is the first Black woman (African-American & Caribbean (Anguilla)) pastor in the Minnesota Conference to receive this honor. She stands on the shoulders of Pastor Kingoina who was the first black pastor in Minnesota. She said her prayer is that she will not be the last.  About Pastor Darnisha Thomas Born in Silver Spring, Maryland, Pastor Darnisha Thomas felt a call to ministry at a young age. A product of Christian education, she attended George E. Peters SDA School and Takoma Academy, where she sensed God’s call to ministry at age 13. She became active in church leadership early, serving in children’s ministries, youth leadership, and Pathfinders. Thomas earned a degree in Theology from Oakwood University and later a Master of Divinity from Andrews University. Her ministry experience includes serving in the Chesapeake Conference and later joining the Minnesota Conference in 2019 as associate pastor at Southview SDA Church Read more…

Last March, the Kansas-Nebraska Conference hosted a weekend in Kearney filled with learning, fellowship and spiritual growth. Though each of the two groups had their own focus, both gatherings shared the same purpose: strengthening our churches, families and leaders for God’s mission. Hispanic leadership training Guest speaker Pastor Manuel Caro led a powerful weekend centered on how we can work more effectively together as a church through mission, leadership and practical strategies. Many of our leaders arrived with years of experience in evangelism and church work. Yet Pastor Caro reminded everyone that there are always new techniques and better approaches to the work God has called us to do. One of the first principles he shared was the Golden Rule: treat others the way you would like to be treated. This simple but powerful reminder called leaders to serve with compassion, humility and respect. He also emphasized that a true leader builds confidence in their team. Leadership isn’t about giving instructions; it’s about empowering others and cultivating trust. We were also blessed by Pastor Edgar Luna, who joined us all the way from the Michigan Conference to lead worship for the weekend. His praise team created a reverent and uplifting atmosphere that helped prepare hearts to receive God’s message. It was a powerful time of unity and worship. Throughout the training, we explored how every church member has a role to play. Everyone matters in God’s eyes, and we are all called to evangelism. When we work together and use the gifts God has given us, the church becomes stronger and more effective in reaching others. On Sunday, we held a special session for the secretaries and clerks of our Hispanic churches. This training covered essential information for keeping member and non-member records current and accurate. It was a time full of questions, participation and practical learning. We highlighted how important it is that every member is counted and cared for, and we are deeply grateful for these dedicated volunteers who faithfully serve in addition to their other responsibilities. Spouses retreat Though the group was smaller, God’s presence was felt in every session. The speaker addressed topics that resonated with many of the spouses, creating space for encouragement and spiritual growth. Saturday night was especially moving. The ladies gathered for a special prayer meeting, sharing requests, gratitude and burdens for their families, children and personal lives. Together, they placed their fears into God’s hands. It was a sacred and impactful moment, and a beautiful close to a weekend full of blessings. Jasmin Cortes is multilingüal ministries administrative assistant for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

Every church has a story to tell. Whether through writing, photography, video, graphic design or social media, communication plays a vital role in sharing the gospel and connecting people with Christ. Registration is now open for the 2026 Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) Convention, taking place Oct. 15–17 in Orlando, Florida. The annual event brings together communication directors, pastors, educators, writers, photographers, videographers, designers and media professionals for three days of learning, networking and spiritual encouragement. For many Mid-America attendees, the value of SAC extends well beyond the presentations. “The best part about SAC is actually what happens after SAC,” said Saul Dominguez, communication director for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference. “It’s all those connections and all the things you’ve been hearing and learning—you get to go back and start doing them.” Jodi Dossenko, communication director for the Dakota Conference, shared a similar experience: “We’re not just colleagues; we’re friends. We laugh, we pray, we support each other.” Even if you can’t attend this year’s convention, you can still experience many of the sessions through the Adventist Learning Community. The 2025 presentation library includes practical training on storytelling, branding, artificial intelligence and social media ministry. One featured session, “From Clicks to Connection: Making Social Media Work for Good,” by Patricia Maxwell, explores how rhythm, repetition and memorable language patterns can make messages more engaging and impactful. Drawing from marketing, psychology and Scripture, Maxwell demonstrates how carefully chosen words can strengthen faith, build connection and improve message recall. Whether you manage your church’s Facebook page, write a newsletter, preach sermons or create videos, SAC offers practical tools to help you communicate with greater purpose and effectiveness. Learn more about the 2026 convention by visiting the SAC registration website, and start exploring previous presentations through the Adventist Learning Community today.  

Last March, the Kansas-Nebraska Conference hosted a weekend in Kearney filled with learning, fellowship and spiritual growth. Though each of the two groups had their own focus, both gatherings shared the same purpose: strengthening our churches, families and leaders for God’s mission. Hispanic leadership training Guest speaker Pastor Manuel Caro led a powerful weekend centered on how we can work more effectively together as a church through mission, leadership and practical strategies. Many of our leaders arrived with years of experience in evangelism and church work. Yet Pastor Caro reminded everyone that there are always new techniques and better approaches to the work God has called us to do. One of the first principles he shared was the Golden Rule: treat others the way you would like to be treated. This simple but powerful reminder called leaders to serve with compassion, humility and respect. He also emphasized that a true leader builds confidence in their team. Leadership isn’t about giving instructions; it’s about empowering others and cultivating trust. We were also blessed by Pastor Edgar Luna, who joined us all the way from the Michigan Conference to lead worship for the weekend. His praise team created a reverent and uplifting atmosphere that helped prepare hearts to receive God’s message. It was a powerful time of unity and worship. Throughout the training, we explored how every church member has a role to play. Everyone matters in God’s eyes, and we are all called to evangelism. When we work together and use the gifts God has given us, the church becomes stronger and more effective in reaching others. On Sunday, we held a special session for the secretaries and clerks of our Hispanic churches. This training covered essential information for keeping member and non-member records current and accurate. It was a time full of questions, participation and practical learning. We highlighted how important it is that every member is counted and cared for, and we are deeply grateful for these dedicated volunteers who faithfully serve in addition to their other responsibilities. Spouses retreat Though the group was smaller, God’s presence was felt in every session. The speaker addressed topics that resonated with many of the spouses, creating space for encouragement and spiritual growth. Saturday night was especially moving. The ladies gathered for a special prayer meeting, sharing requests, gratitude and burdens for their families, children and personal lives. Together, they placed their fears into God’s hands. It was a sacred and impactful moment, and a beautiful close to a weekend full of blessings. Jasmin Cortes is multilingüal ministries administrative assistant for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.