Story by Francis Tuffour
Ohio Conference
Story by Francis Tuffour
What began as a challenge during Sabbath worship at the Cincinnati Hispanic church ultimately became a powerful ministry that is now shaping the spiritual lives of children and strengthening the entire congregation.
When the church’s pastor, Fredy Funez, first visited the congregation after being assigned there, he immediately noticed the atmosphere inside the sanctuary. Large fans hummed loudly, infants cried, children whispered and moved about and a steady murmur filled the room. The distractions competed with the message he was trying to deliver from the pulpit.
That Sabbath, one question weighed heavily on his mind: How could this situation be addressed?
Story by Francis Tuffour
During a recent Ohio Conference Workers’ Meeting, the administrative team officially launched Ignite Ohio—a bold, statewide initiative designed to inspire revival, foster reformation and mobilize churches for frontline mission in 2026. Spanning the entire year, the movement will culminate in a coordinated evangelistic effort, with more than 20 churches across Ohio conducting simultaneous proclamation series from September 19–26.
Story by Angela Peach
When Nico Chaij (’15) was a high school student at Spring Valley Academy, he was drawn to God, but not necessarily to ministry. To him, ministry was something only truly holy people could do. And yet, his love of learning led him to study the Bible deeply. He also found joy in his roles as junior class pastor and, later, Student Council’s religious vice president (student chaplain). He helped lead a Bible study on the book of Ruth and enjoyed the thrill of helping people find deeper meaning in familiar stories. But a career in ministry? Surely not.
Story by Ohio Conference Staff
In 1925, Ohio Conference’s First Church of Seventh-day Adventists in Cincinnati established a school on William Howard Taft Road. Many years later, the school became known as Cincinnati Junior Academy and, in 1969, relocated to its current Clifton Avenue campus, continuing its mission under the name Clifton Christian Academy (CCA).
“For 100 years, our school has been dedicated to academic excellence, faith-based learning and the development of servant leaders. Our mission extends beyond our faith community to serve the community at large,” says Mike Ellis, board chair of the school.