FEJA Leaders Gather for Strategic Youth Planning Across Central California

On January 17, 2026, the Federation of Adventist Youth (FEJA)—a youth ministry of the Central California Conference (CCC) serving Hispanic churches—held a successful leadership and planning meeting at the Central California Conference offices, bringing together leaders from across the conference territory. The event gathered 97 participants representing 34 Hispanic congregations.

The meeting brought together Adult Youth Ministry (AY) Directors and their leadership teams, along with representatives from churches that currently do not have an organized AY ministry. The purpose of the gathering was to strengthen youth leadership, align vision, and officially launch the youth ministry initiatives for 2026.

The event was planned and coordinated by the FEJA leadership team, with the support and active participation of Pastor Edwing Mendoza, Coordinator of Hispanic Ministries for the Central California Conference, whose presence affirmed the conference’s commitment to strengthening youth leadership within its Spanish-speaking congregations.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in leadership development seminars focused on youth identity, spiritual commitment, and practical leadership skills. The program also provided time for reflection, collaboration, and intentional planning to equip leaders for effective ministry within their local churches and regional areas.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the organization of youth leadership across the eight geographic areas of the Central California Conference. Area coordinators were selected, and each area committed to collaborative activities designed to promote unity, mission, and engagement among young adults throughout the year.

The FEJA leadership team presented the 2026 calendar of major youth initiatives, which includes:

• The launch of the Senior Youth Leader Training (SYL) course

• Participation in Global Youth Day in March

• Youth evangelism initiatives within the CCC territory

• The Adolescent Camp in Wawona in April

• Additional youth camps, FEJA Tour events, and the Pacific Union FEJA Congress later in the year

Special emphasis was placed on evangelism, community service, and cooperation with conference-wide and union-wide initiatives, reinforcing the importance of working in harmony with the broader mission of the church.

“Seeing leaders from so many congregations come together with a shared vision and commitment for our youth was deeply encouraging,” said Pastor Edward Smith, FEJA Director for the Central California Conference. “This meeting was not just about planning events, but about renewing our commitment to disciple, mentor, and empower the next generation of leaders.”

The meeting concluded with a spirit of unity, clear commitments, and prayerful dedication as leaders returned to their churches prepared to serve and lead throughout 2026.

Written by Edward Smith