Story by New Jersey Conference Staff

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pastor LeRoy Finck, former president of the New Jersey Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Pastor Finck passed away on October 27, 2025, after a lifetime devoted to ministry, leadership, and service to the Lord. His unwavering faith and dedication to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Pastor Finck is survived by his beloved wife, Marjorie, his son Kevin, and his daughter Christi. From 2000 to 2007, Pastor Finck served as President of the New Jersey Conference, and for a short time thereafter as Executive Secretary. "His administration was marked by spiritual integrity, thoughtful stewardship, and genuine care for pastors, members, and ministries across New Jersey," said Elder Jose Cortes (pictured with his wife, Celia, on the right; Jim and Joyce Greene, on the left; and the Fincks, center) who served alongside him as executive secretary and later as conference president.

In a world that can often feel lonely or uncertain, many long for the assurance that we are never alone. Here, we share stories of those who found a welcoming spiritual home.

Story by Amanda Blake

Romita Mandal had known Mr. Matthie for more than a decade. He’d been her elementary and middle school strings director, and, when she reached high school, her private violin instructor.

“Sometimes, we wouldn’t unpack the violin,” she shares. “Sometimes, I would just have a breakdown on the couch, and he would help me and be a mentor.”

Finding Home
Mandal grew up with a Hindu mom and an atheist dad. She aligned more with her dad, whom she describes as scientifically minded with no space for spirituality—yet, unlike him, Mandal believed that God existed.

Mandal independently studied parts of the Bible, including the Ten Commandments, and found it puzzling that churches didn’t worship on the seventh day.

One day, after speaking with Mandal about God, Matthie offered to spend time with her to answer any “God questions” she might have. She accepted, and they eventually began studying the Bible together once a week.