Delegates to the 19th Alaska Conference constituency session gathered Sept. 22, 2024 to receive ministry reports, elect leaders and process church business.
Financial Challenges
Alaska Conference, like many others, faced various post-pandemic challenges affecting staffing, infrastructure, services and finances.
Financial difficulties were highlighted by the 2021 audit, which was disclaimed, preventing a full audit. In a cascading effect, the 2022 audit resulted in a split decision, an unqualified balance and a disclaimed financial statement. Fortunately, the 2023 audit achieved a qualified opinion, putting the conference on a better accounting footing.
“Progress is being made in correcting the issues we've had in our record keeping,” said Bob Sundin, interim treasurer from North Pacific Union. “God has provided us with what is needed to move into the future on a positive basis.”
Amid the challenges, Mark Remboldt, NPUC vice president for finance, praised the Alaskan membership for their strong tithe, their top tier tithe per capita and a solid working capital fund.
Ministry Engagement
Alaska churches continue to enhance their digital engagement, including monthly online evangelism and discipleship training. The introduction of Starlink in 2022 provided high-speed satellite internet to underserved Bush communities and now supports 26 low-power radio stations statewide.
Working with NPUC and It Is Written, Alaska Conference coordinated a successful statewide evangelism series in 2024. From 2020 to 2023, God blessed Alaska Conference with 232 baptisms, 33 professions of faith and 143 membership transfers.
Alaska Conference is home to 36 churches and companies, five Adventist schools, 14 pastors, 12 teachers, 10 administrative staff, two Arctic Mission Workers and 3,817 members. There are also 161 students and a territory covering 665,384 miles. In the last four years, 75 mission groups from the Lower 48 have come to assist with humanitarian and outreach projects.
Leading Forward
This summer, Alaska Conference asked for feedback on perceived successes, challenges and suggested actions for the future. Three key themes emerged: a call for more active listening to constituents, improved financial accountability and increased communication between the conference and its churches.
The following leaders have been reelected to incorporate these themes into their work: Ashwin Somasundram, vice president for administration; Garrett Holmes, vice president for finance; Tobin Dodge, Alaska camps and Arctic Mission Adventure director; Brenda Campbell Johnson, communication director and educational support; John Winslow, education director and youth and young adult director; and Daniel Jean-Francois, ministerial director.
After serving eight years as president, Kevin Miller was not renominated. Delegates honored Miller with a standing ovation as a gesture of thanks for his dedicated service. NPUC will now lead a process in the coming months for electing a new president.
As they look ahead, leaders emphasize the importance of moving forward "Together in Mission." By embracing new opportunities and uniting in purpose, Alaska Conference can navigate challenges, foster community and make a positive kingdom impact.
Alaska Conference Constituency Session Gallery
