This autumn, two local church pastors celebrated a milestone moment here in the Oregon Conference: ordination. Pastoral ordination and commissioning represent years of service, leadership development, and missional intentionality in local ministry. The celebration not only marks a pastor's readiness for expanded leadership, but also serves as an opportunity for congregations, family members, mentors, and leaders to come together to recognize an individual's calling and service – to pray over them, share words of encouragement and reflection, and to reaffirm the impact God has made through their work in ministry.

At the Iglesia Adventista de Woodburn (the Woodburn Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church), Pastor Felix Toribio stood before the congregation with his family, surrounded by loving mentors, ministry partners, and conference leadership. As Dr. John McVay, Oregon Conference president shared, “The music was upbeat and prayers fervent as we gathered for the joyous, yet solemn ordination of Elder Felix Toribi, a seasoned evangelist and warmhearted pastor dedicated to servant leadership. God’s blessing on a life, celebrated by God’s people. There’s nothing better!”

At Pleasant Valley Adventist Church in Happy Valley, Oregon, Pastor Billy Hungate prepared for the same. “It was an honor for all of us to gather at Pleasant Valley Church and celebrate God’s hand in the life of Elder Billy Hungate,” shared Dr. McVay. “His gripping story, call to ministry, and dedication to creating alternatives to isolation and addiction are all inspiring. We know that God is going to use Billy and his family in creative and powerful ways in the days ahead!”

As our pastors reflect on their ministry journeys, go about their service in ministry, and look toward the coming year’s challenges, keep them and their families in your prayers. Let’s make the Oregon Conference the best place for pastors to lead!