Azure Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church

The Narrow Way: Fulfillment | Pastor Tara VinCross

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus paints a picture of what it means to be part of the Kingdom of God —not a kingdom of violence or domination, but one of hope, marked by mercy, justice, and humble power.

We will reflect on Jesus' words from Matthew 5:17-20—words that inspire us to believe in Jesus as the fulfillment of who we were made to be, and that invite us to hold onto hope for what matters most. Pastor Tara VinCross will preach a message entitled: "The Narrow Way: Fulfillment."

The Narrow Way: Jesus’ Message from the Mountain, pt.2 | Pastor Gabriel Morales

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus paints a picture of what it means to be part of His kingdom—not a kingdom of violence or domination, but a subversive one that is marked by mercy, justice, and humble power. This Sabbath we reflect on His words from Matthew 5:13–16—words that call us to be salt and light. These are not just poetic metaphors. They are a summons. A mission. A sacred calling. Pastor Gabriel Morales will preach a message entitled: "The Narrow Way: Salt and Light."

The Narrow Way: Jesus' Message from the Mountain, pt. 1 | Pastor Daniel Xisto

Pastor Daniel kicks off Azure Hills’ summer series "The Narrow Way" with Matthew 5:1–12—Jesus’ most iconic and subversive teaching. Though it spans just three chapters (Matthew 5–7), the Sermon on the Mount completely redefines what it means to live a good life. What if blessing doesn’t look like success? What if the kingdom belongs not to the strong but to the poor in spirit? In a world chasing power, applause, and performance, Jesus offers something radically different. He invites us into the narrow way—not a rigid or rule-heavy path, but the Jesus way—a way marked by mercy, honesty, courage, justice, and deep trust in a God who draws near to the broken.

Beware the Travel Brochure | Dr. Gilbert Valentine

We are excited to have Dr. Gilbert Valentine as our guest speaker!

Dr. Valentine is a respected Adventist scholar and educator who, even in retirement, continues to teach occasionally at the H.M.S. Richards Divinity School at La Sierra University in California.

Originally from New Zealand, Dr. Valentine has served the Adventist Church in pastoral ministry, youth leadership, and higher education around the world—including in Pakistan, England, Thailand, Australia, and his home country.

He is widely recognized for his work in Adventist history and Ellen White studies. His writings include several major biographies and books exploring the development of Adventist thought, leadership, and prophetic identity. His forthcoming biography of theologian Edward Heppenstall is expected to be released by Pacific Press this summer.

Dr. Valentine is also a beloved member of our Azure Hills Church family. He and his wife, Dr. Kendra Haloviak Valentine, live in Riverside, where he enjoys cycling through the citrus groves near their home.

The title of Dr. Valentine's message this is “Beware the Travel Brochure." Here's a preview: "Sometimes our experience at a destination does not match what the glossy travel brochures promised. What do we do when that reflects our experience in the church? The assurance that Jesus is the builder of the church assures us that though the development process might at times be messy and uncomfortable, the community being built is strong. Jesus is an experienced builder. What can we learn from Jesus' confidence in the future of the church?" - Dr. Gilbert Valentine

Mighty to Save | Pastor Daniel Xisto

This week’s message walks us through Daniel chapter 6—but not just as a story about lions and deliverance. We’ll uncover how this ancient story points directly to Jesus, the One who was consumed so that we could be saved. We’ll also reflect on how unjust systems—then and now—target those who seek peace, justice, and truth. In a world full of modern-day lion’s dens, we are reminded: "our God is still mighty to save."

Highest Calling | Dr. Jonathan Park

For our Diversity Sabbath this year, we're honored to have Dr. Jonathan Park, president of our Southeastern California Conference, as our guest speaker!

Elder Park was born in Korea and came to the United States when he was young. He has always wanted to be a pastor, and God has graciously made his dream come true. He is married to Ashley, has three children, and knows he is very blessed. He currently serves in the role of the President of the Southeastern California Conference. He has had the privilege of serving as a local church pastor for several churches for the past 30+ years.

His sermon is entitled, "Highest Calling."

“The fulfillment of the highest calling experience depends on who you look at.” - Dr. Jonathan Park

Naming God: The Legacy of Encounter | Pr. Sabina Vieira

Pastor Sabina Vieira will share the message entitled “Naming God: The Legacy of Encounter,” where she will explore the powerful story of an unexpected mother who will challenge the ways we think about legacy and discipleship.

Neither!, the best bad news we need to hear today | Elder Caleb VinCross

Elder Caleb VinCross preached a sermon titled, "Neither!, the best bad news we need to hear today." You are invited into the presence of God, a place where all belong.

Caleb VinCross is a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, educator, and board certified healthcare chaplain. Caleb has a passion for creating space for people to learn, grow, and authentically express their thoughts and feelings. Caleb joins his wife Tara, son Josiah, and daughter Ava on their many adventures in ministry and beyond. He currently serves veterans and their families, focusing on providing support for severe mental illness, substance use, grief, and moral injury.

The Breakfast Club | Pastor Gabriel Morales

Jesus resurrects and doesn’t immediately ascend; He stays with His disciples for a few weeks longer. John 21 is a reminder that good things don’t have to be rushed. It’s a story that reveals the pathway to forgiveness and is an invitation to participate in the healing of a fractured world.

 

Pastor Gabriel Morales will share a sermon called, “The Breakfast Club.”

Come Worship the King| Resurrection Reflection| Pastor Tara VinCross