NewsNuggets

RMCNews – Denver, Colorado … The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) is pleased to announce that Sean Lee has accepted the call to be the new Ministerial director. Lee will begin his duties at the conference April 1.

“We are thrilled to welcome our new ministerial director Sean Lee to the Rocky Mountain Conference,” commented Dave VandeVere, RMC president. “His depth of pastoral experience, commitment to professional development, and heart for ministry bring a meaningful foundation to this role.  We look forward to seeing how his leadership will shape, strengthen, and support our pastors and churches in the years ahead.”

Lee has most recently been the lead pastor of the Southview Seventh-day Adventist Church in Eagan, Minnesota, and served until a year ago as the Ministerial assistant director and Twin Cities coordinator for the Minnesota Seventh-day Adventist Conference. He is also a volunteer chaplain for the Eagan Police Department.

Prior to these leadership positions, Lee has served the greater Seventh-day Adventist Church in a variety of functions over the last two decades in pastor, associate pastor, and associate youth director roles in Maryland, California, and Michigan. He began his service as a missionary musician from the Northern Asia Pacific Division with the Golden Angels Singers ministry.

Holding a doctorate in Ministry and a Master of Business Administration from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, with chaplain endorsements and certifications in marriage counseling, Lee will be a great asset to the RMC pastors he will serve in this new role. Lee has also remarked on his passion for Adventist education, youth and young adult ministry, and cultural diversity, and on his respect for both traditional and modern forms of evangelism from preaching to innovative multimedia ministries.

“It is exciting to recognize that we are part of something greater than ourselves,” reflected Lee on the upcoming transition. “Responding to God’s calling reminds me that I am part of His greater purpose, and that fills me with gratitude and excitement. I look forward to serving the Rocky Mountain Conference, especially collaborating with my fellow pastors. Just as I have poured my heart in serving the Southview family, I will pour my heart to the RMC pastors with commitment and determination.”

“I have known Sean for years as a dedicated pastor and wonderful Chirstian. I am really excited that he is coming to RMC,” commented Doug Inglish, RMC vice president for Administration.

Hugo Guillen, RMC Ministerial associate director and lead for Multicultural Ministries, remarked, “I am happy to know that we are getting a new team member here at RMC. From my initial conversations and the entire interview process, I believe Pastor Sean Lee will fit right into what we are seeking to accomplish as a conference. His passion and understanding of pastoral ministry will definitely be a blessing for our pastoral team. I know God is building something special in our region.”

Lee will be relocating with his wife, Helen, and their two sons, Nathan and Joseph. As a family, they enjoy such outdoor activities as hiking and biking, various sports, and making music.

—RMCNews. Photo supplied.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … At Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Valentine’s Day was about more than cards and candy—it was about connection, care, and community. Feeding 283 students, along with faculty, staff, and even parent volunteers, was no small task. But, for the MHA team, it was a labor of love rooted in a deeper mission: showing students the love of Jesus and reminding them that they matter.

Before sunrise on February 13, the campus was already alive with activity as staff and parents worked side by side to prepare the special brunch. Fifth-grade teacher Jason DuBose and administrative assistant Gabi DuBose were among those who volunteered their time to cook and set up for the morning.

“I love cooking, and this is an amazing opportunity for us to show our students we care,” said DuBose.

The brunch is part of a broader emotional intelligence initiative at MHA, where staff are intentional about helping students feel safe, loved, and valued. While this commitment shows up in many ways throughout the school year, sharing a meal together is one of the simplest—and most meaningful—expressions of care.

MHA chaplain RD Gallant reflected on the heart behind the event, saying, “This is what we do at MHA.”

Students also appreciated both the food and the fellowship. Sophomore student Jerren shared, “The food was amazing—I loved the pancakes! With so many activities during the week, it was great to eat together and relax a bit.”

Senior student Asa highlighted the deeper meaning behind the event, saying, “The reasoning and intention was great—that the school thought to get everyone together and fellowship on a day that celebrates love.”

From the kitchen to the cafeteria, the Valentine’s Day brunch was more than just a meal. It was a reminder that at MHA, every student is seen, valued, and deeply cared for—and that a caring community, including dedicated parents, makes that possible.

—Cindy Roldan is MHA Student Services director. Photos by Cindy Roldan.

RMCNews – Aurora, Colorado … The Mile High Indonesian Fellowship in Aurora, Colorado, celebrated the welcoming of its first official pastor, Stanley Luntungan, February 14, with a special worship service. Over 100 people were in attendance for the celebration.

Luntungan served in the Gulf States Conference in northern Alabama, previously ministered in the Northern New England Conference, and is faithfully serving as a U.S. military reserve chaplain.

The church has grown quickly in recent years, changing from a company to a church designation in October of 2023 after forming in 2021. One recent focus of the church was on their young adults in which the church supported their participation at a Generation Youth Christ (GYC) conference. Church elder Albert Palar remarked, “We sent 14 people to the GYC, and there is now a good relationship between them. They are more active [in church] now. That is some of the Gospel that we see from Pastor Lantungan, and we are very sure that we can achieve more in the future with him.”

Doug Inglish, RMC vice president for administration, gave the sermon for the Sabbath service both for this event and when they received church designation and gave a special blessing to the new pastor: “We lift up Pastor Luntungan, and we are grateful that he was called here and willing to lead this church as they march forward in Jesus.”

Special prayers were also given by Praban Lim, lead pastor of the Colorado Indonesian-American Adventist Church.

The event featured several special music offerings from a mixed choir to a contemporary song from four youth girls to even a male quartet. Tammy Luntungan, wife of Pastor Luntungan, shared a memorable children’s story during worship, using colored pencils to provide a clear and meaningful illustration that unity gives us strength.

—RMCNews. Photos by Liz Kirkland.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … The third- through fifth-grade students at Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, recently experienced the magic of live orchestral music at Boettcher Concert Hall during the Colorado Symphony’s annual Youth Concerts.

The concert, guided by a central theme connecting people, places, and ideas, left a lasting impression on students.

Fourth grade student Davina shared her excitement, saying, “I love that the performer who wrote her own song and hyped up all the students with her energy!”

MHA fourth-grade teacher Elizabeth Negrete added, “My favorite was the jazz band’s rendition of ‘Rocky Mountain High.’” The performance had such an impact that her students were singing “Rocky Mountain High” all day the following day.

Fifth grade student Keanu added, “I enjoyed being at a concert with my friends,” highlighting how the field trip combined music appreciation with social connection.

The excitement didn’t stop at the concert hall. On the walk to lunch at Maggiano’s, students were singing praise songs together, reflecting the energy and joy they had experienced during the performance. Many bystanders commented on how well the students behaved. At the restaurant, students practiced dining etiquette lessons they had recently learned in class with Cindy Roldan, MHA’s director of Student Services, demonstrating both poise and courtesy.

Parents who joined the trip expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, and special thanks go to Jessica Gleason, MHA vice principal, for organizing the event.

Field trips like this one continue to enrich the Mile High Academy experience by combining cultural exposure, hands-on learning, and community building in ways that leave a lasting impression on students.

—Cindy Roldan is MHA Student Services director. Photos supplied.

Waleska Agramonte – Fort Morgan, Colorado … The Adventurers and Pathfinder Clubs from the Fort Morgan Seventh-day Adventist Church led outreach activities in their community, February 14-15.

They visited the Valley Nursing Home in Fort Morgan on February 14. “The club members made Valentine cards for the elderly, signed beautiful hymnals, prayed with them, and reminded them how special they are to Jesus. The residents were overjoyed, singing along and engaging with the children,” remarked Waleska Agramonte, the church’s Club Ministries director.

The club members went out to bless the homeless on February 15. They collected essential items such as socks, soap, and other necessities to share along with their prayers and encouragement.

“The children’s acts of kindness touched many hearts—some of the homeless were moved to tears,” reflected Agramonte. “The kids learned valuable lessons, including the importance of gratitude for the blessings we have and the calling to bless others just as Jesus blesses us every day.”

“We encourage all churches to involve their clubs and youth in outreach activities. There are many people in our community who need our love, our support, and most importantly, the message of Jesus.”

—Waleska Agramonte is the Club Ministries director for the Fort Morgan Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.

How Adventist Education Transforms Lives Across the Rocky Mountain Conference

Diane Harris – Denver, Colorado … Each year, the Mid-America Union Conference’s OUTLOOK magazine invites students from across the region to share their experiences through personal essays that reflect the heart of Adventist education. These authentic stories offer a window into how our schools shape faith, character, resilience and purpose. The following selections highlight just a few of the powerful voices from the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) whose journeys illustrate the profound mission of Adventist education and its enduring impact on students’ lives.

Across the Rocky Mountain Conference, students are experiencing Adventist education as more than academics. It is an environment that dignifies their stories, strengthens their faith, and calls them into purpose. Their voices reveal a truth we cannot ignore. When Christ is at the center, lives change.

For seventh grader Harper D., the impact was immediate. After hearing her friend describe her experience in public school, Harper realized what she had gained. “My teachers care, and they value you and your opinion,” she shares.

“They always help, no matter how busy they are.”

In a world where young people often feel unseen, Harper has found belonging and guidance.

At Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado, Lillian R. stepped into a spiritual transformation she didn’t expect. Leaving a public-school environment that had pulled her away from church, she discovered a community that brought her back to Jesus.

“I now see education as something that helps me grow spiritually and learn real things about life,” she writes. “I view devotion, prayer and my relationship with God as a gift.”

Then there is Max B., whose journey from skepticism to baptism began with one unexpected moment during Week of Prayer. “I felt like a weight had been lifted off of me,” he remembers. That moment changed the trajectory of his life.

“Adventist education helped me realize what I want to do with my life: lead others to Him.”

And beyond the classroom, Adventist education continues shaping lives. Luca L., a student who entered Youth Rush carrying “fear, anxiety and depression,” found God waiting for him at the door of a stranger’s home. After a long, discouraging day, his simple prayer was answered when he met a woman who spoke his language and bought every book he carried. “It wasn’t a coincidence,” he writes.

“God had prepared that door for me.”

Through friendships, worship, and one powerful encounter, Luca discovered that mission is not about numbers. It is about revealing God’s love to people who need it most.

These students’ stories converge into one resounding message. Adventist education empowers and shapes students’ lives through Christ-centered learning so they can influence the world and fulfill God’s eternal purpose. Supporting this mission means investing in students who are finding faith, courage, identity and hope. These lives are being transformed. Their future impact will be immeasurable.

—Diane Harris is the RMC Education superintendent. Republished with permission by OUTLOOK magazine from the February 8, 2026, feature story.  Photos supplied.

Jose Briones – Pagosa Springs, Colorado … Two congregations in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, gathered for a baptism service that emphasized unity in Christ and the strength of shared faith, February 7. The Pagosa Springs Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Group and the Pagosa Springs Seventh‑day Adventist Church came together to celebrate the baptism of Obed and Blanca Moreno. The service marked the first use of the church’s newly renewed baptistry, adding a meaningful layer to an already significant occasion.

The gathering opened with bilingual hymns sung in English and Spanish at the same time. The Seventh‑day Adventist Hymnal made this possible through its cross‑referenced guide that pairs Spanish and English selections, allowing both congregations to sing together seamlessly. Members from both groups joined their voices, creating a blended sound that many described as a glimpse of the unity believers look forward to in heaven. The music set the tone for the afternoon and reminded those present that no matter where people come from or what language they speak, they are united in Jesus.

The baptism of Obed and Blanca was a long time in the making. Their decision to publicly commit their lives to Christ brought joy to families, friends, and church members. For several years, both had been attending the Pagosa Springs Hispanic Group worship services, which is composed mostly of visitors and had only three baptized members among a regular Sabbath attendance of about twenty‑five. Their baptism represented meaningful growth for the group and encouraged many who have been praying for continued spiritual development within the congregation.

Irene Portillo, a leader within the Hispanic group, spoke about the importance of the day. She said, “We are so happy to have come together for this event. Seeing our small group grow by two more young people who want to be dedicated to God is an immense joy.”

Irene and her husband, Gamaliel, had been the only baptized members of the group living in Pagosa Springs until Saturday afternoon, which made the moment especially meaningful for them. Lemuel Ramirez, an elder with the Durango Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Group, also shared his appreciation for the occasion. He remarked on how grateful they are to see the mission in the western region continue to grow through the faithfulness of members who are committed to nurturing and expanding the work.

The joint service became more than a baptism—it served as a demonstration of unity, cooperation, and shared purpose of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Members from both congregations left with a renewed sense of connection and a deeper appreciation for what can happen when believers choose to worship together as one family in Christ.

—Jose Briones is the RMC Media and Content creator. Photos supplied.

Jose R. Alarcón – Aurora, Colorado … “I never imagined that a baby dedication at church—a moment to celebrate life, hope, and God’s promises—would become the setting for one of the most painful experiences of my life,” reflected Jose R. Alarcón, lead pastor at the Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Aurora, Colorado.

“Yet, in the middle of Sabbath worship, I suffered a serious break, a closed bimalleolar ankle fracture, that would immediately change my daily rhythm, my mobility, and my perspective,” he continued. “One moment, I was standing in God’s house. The next moment, I was on the floor in pain, surrounded by concern, prayers, and confusion. Emergency surgery followed, with the insertion of two plates on each side of my ankle.”

The church is not only where we celebrate victories, but where we carry one another through suffering. Guided by biblical principles, a group of medical professionals at the Aurora First Church decided to act: As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God (1 Peter 4:10, NAS). It was this chaos that prompted the Aurora First Church to form an Emergency Response Unit (ER Unit).

Led by Dr. Sheela Marvin, the ER Unit’s founder, the unit is divided into two teams: Team Alpha led by nurse practitioner (NP) Julieth Ombogo and Team Bravo led by registered nurse (RN) Zippy Obiero. Each team has eight assistants scheduled to serve on each Sabbath. Dr. Marvin, talking about the necessity of the ER Unit, expressed, “As a result of Pastor Alarcon’s accident, it was deemed necessary to put a team of healthcare professionals in place to offer first aid to church attendees who might face life-threatening or critical conditions during church services.”

With the establishment of the ER Unit, the church soon purchased an AED along with other first-aid and comprehensive trauma supplies. Ombogo, speaking about the role of the ER in a church, stated, “Having an emergency team in a church is vital. Emergencies happen anywhere, anytime, including in the church. Because church members have varied, uncoordinated approaches to helping, it often results in chaotic responses that do not help the emergency. Hence, having an ER team means we are prepared for the emergency.”

Obiero added, “Immediate action is always crucial in unexpected emergencies and crises. The ER Unit’s goal is to mitigate crises in an organized manner by providing temporary care until local emergency response services arrive.”

Dr. Lori Supit, Aurora First’s Health Ministries director and new ER Unit director, stated further, “ER teams? In a church? This is the first time I have seen this concept in action. As a health leader, I am passionate about caring for church members’ overall health in the best way possible. Having an ER Unit as part of the Health Ministry will help to ensure that those who attend services at the church will have immediate attention in a crisis, bridging the time gap between the onset of the accident and the arrival of emergency medical services.” Dr. Marvin also put together a training guide to enhance their services and is available to train other churches in forming an ER Unit.

“Jesus formed an ER unit consisting of His disciples. Jesus and His ER unit responded rapidly to crisis situations: Jairus’ daughter was resurrected as He was still speaking (Luke 8:49-55); they entered contaminated and unsafe spaces as they entertained the demon-possessed man (Mark 5:1-8 NAS); they were trained, deployed, and sent out as they were commissioned (Matthew 10:1, 7,8 NAS); and they offered immediate care and restoration to the paralytic (Mark 2:5-11 NAS),” noted Alarcón.

“Jesus did not first build an institution; He formed a mobile rescue unit. The church was never meant to be a waiting room; it was designed to be an emergency response team for a broken world,” he concluded.

—Jose R. Alarcón is lead pastor at Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied by the Aurora First ER Unit and Jose R. Alarcón.

Cindy Roldan – Greenwood Village, Colorado … Junior and senior students Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, recently participated in an interactive campus tour at AdventHealth University, where they explored academic programs in nursing, sonography, and radiography. Students engaged in hands-on labs, interacted with faculty and staff, and gained a firsthand look at what pursuing a career in health care can look like.

Senior student Roman C. described the experience as “fun, interactive, and informative,” while senior student Ayda M. shared that she especially enjoyed the hands-on lab experiences. Roger C., junior student, noted that the visit, “really helped solidify my desire to study medicine,” highlighting the value of seeing these programs in action.

MHA intentionally provides students with opportunities to visit college campuses whenever possible. Through academic trips connected to tournaments, music festivals, and planned college visits, students this year have explored Union Adventist University in Lincoln, Nebraska, Walla Walla University in College Place, Washington, and now AdventHealth University in Greenwood Village, Colorado. These experiences help students envision themselves in a college environment and better understand their academic and career options. Following this visit, several students are now considering AdventHealth University as a potential college choice.

RD Gallant, MHA chaplain, who accompanied the students on the visit, shared that he was, “impressed by the level of innovation and the advanced technology showcased throughout the campus and labs.”

“A special thank-you to Katie Shaw, Andrew Meredith, and Christian Ledesma for hosting our students and leading engaging presentations,” praised Cindy Roland, MHA director of Student Services. “It was also encouraging to see MHA alumnus Jazel McDaniel (Class of 2025) thriving on campus. We look forward to continuing to support our students as they finalize their college choices and prepare for the next step in their educational journey.”

—Cindy Roldan is Mile High Academy’s director of Student Services. Photos supplied.

Diane Harris – Lincoln, Nebraska … The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) continues to be blessed with school leaders who lead with purpose, humility, and steady commitment. Over the past several years, RMC principals have pursued academic excellence, spiritual growth, and professional development, and the impact is increasingly visible in the daily life of the schools—stronger collaboration, clearer communication, a healthier culture, and a shared commitment to helping every student flourish.

This year’s Mid America Union Conference (MAUC) Education Council, led by Carisa Carr, MAUC director of Education, February 2-5, reinforced what leaders have consistently practiced: schools thrive when leaders build trust, clarity, and shared ownership. These sessions featuring insights from Dr. Garth Larson, co-founder and CEO of First Educational Resources,* and Dr. Craig Carr, MAUC Ministerial and Evangelism director, gave principals language and tools to strengthen the work they are already doing to cultivate teams, support teachers, and sustain a mission-centered learning environment.

Dr. Garth Larson’s emphasis on vision and leadership “with and for clarity” resonated deeply with schools. Across the conference, leaders are seen working to reduce confusion and increase alignment by clarifying expectations, focusing on high-impact priorities, and supporting staff through transparent decision-making. The result is a growing sense of unity where teachers feel empowered, collaboration is purposeful, and students benefit from a more consistent learning experience.

Dr. Craig Carr’s focus on emotional intelligence also reflects what we see in RMC principals every day. These leaders are strengthening their ability to listen well, respond wisely under pressure, and lead with empathy and integrity. These skills are shaping school communities where relationships are valued, challenges are addressed constructively, and staff feel supported.

“What makes this journey especially meaningful is that it is not only professional but also spiritual,” remarked Diane Harris, RMC superintendent of Education. “Our principals are committed to leadership that reflects Christlike character: humility, service, encouragement, and faithfulness. Over time, this investment in both skill and spirit has strengthened our schools from the inside out.”

She continued, “We are grateful for the school leaders of the Rocky Mountain Conference who continue to learn, grow, and lead with dedication. Their consistent pursuit of academic, spiritual, and professional growth benefits our students, teachers, families, and the entire school community.”

* First Educational Resources is not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church nor the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

—Diane Haarris is the Rocky Mountain Conference superintendent of Education. Photos supplied.