FRESNO, Calif. — This month, the Central California Conference spotlights Todd Paige, Director of Gift Planning Ministries and Property & Risk Management. In his roles, Todd serves members and local churches by helping individuals set up their estate plans, while also managing conference property and liability matters. He does all of this with a passion born out of a lifelong faith journey and a desire to see others blessed.
A Journey to Faith
Raised in the Episcopal tradition, Todd grew up highly active in his local church’s youth programs. At age 12, he participated in a series titled Holy Spirit and You, which helped solidify his commitment to Christ. Though he admits to wandering a bit during young adult years, Todd found his way back to God at the midpoint of his college studies.
“It’s beautiful to look back and see how His hand has guided me,” Todd said. “We don’t always notice it when we’re in the thick of things, but looking back, I can see how God led me each step of the way.”
Marriage to his wife, Cindy prompted Todd to explore Seventh-day Adventist beliefs. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he decided to begin Bible studies and was later baptized at the Oakdale Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1992.
A Blessed Family
Married in 1990, Todd and Cindy welcomed their son, Garrett, in 1993. Their journey to parenthood was a miracle in itself. As the couple considered adoption, the Holy Spirit nudged them in unexpected ways—leading to a pregnancy and the birth of their son soon after.
“We realized God had it all under control,” Todd said, remembering the moment they learned they were expecting. “It’s been a faith journey from the very start, and we are grateful every single day.”Today, Garrett is grown and married, and the family also enjoys the delight of a young granddaughter. Camping, hiking, and spending time in nature are favorite ways for the Paiges to unwind and connect.
Leading Gift Planning Ministries
In his role with Gift Planning Ministries, Todd works to help church members and friends of the conference establish wills, trusts, and life income instruments such as charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts.
“We’re here to serve constituents who have a heart for ministry,” Todd explained. “It’s not only about giving assets—it’s about making sure families are cared for and your values are honored. If you have children, it’s crucial to formalize who will be their guardians should something happen.”Todd’s excited to refocus and expand Gift Planning Ministries as his team grows. He’s currently developing presentations for local churches:
“I’ll come out on a Sabbath afternoon—or whenever works best—to share the benefits of a sound estate plan. We want to educate and help people move forward in a way that blesses their families and God’s work.”A Call to Get Involved
Anyone interested in this ministry can contact Todd via email at giftplanning@cccsda.org. His goal is to make estate planning accessible, showing how it offers both peace of mind and a tangible way to support the ministries dear to one’s heart.
“We’re committed to walking alongside our members,” Todd said. “We want to see you build a legacy that reflects your faith in God and your hope for the future.”
Written by Bryan Bong
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