Volunteer Lay Pastors, Continuing Education Students Honored at Hispanic Graduation Ceremony

On Jan. 3, 2026, the Hispanic Graduation Ceremony recognized 58 Volunteer Lay Pastors (VLPs) and Continuing Education students from the Carolina Conference, representing churches across N.C. and S.C.

During the 2025 academic cycle, participants met every third Sunday of the month for classes focused on leadership, administration, evangelism, visitation, and the Spirit of Prophecy. Through faithful attendance and study, students completed the 36 credits required by the curriculum, qualifying them to receive their respective credentials and certificates.

Conference administrators joined family members and church leaders in celebrating the graduates. Leslie Louis, president of the Carolina Conference, delivered a Christ-centered message, encouraging participants to continue their spiritual preparation and serve as channels of blessing in their local congregations. His words challenged graduates to remain committed to God’s calling and the mission of the Church.

Credentials and certificates were presented by Brad Cauley, executive secretary; Leslie Louis, president; Víctor Jaeger, treasurer; Julio Flores, ministerial director; Moises Sauza, Hispanic Ministries coordinator; and Elías Sandoval, Volunteer Lay Pastors program coordinator. For many students, receiving recognition from Conference leadership marked a long-awaited and emotional milestone.

Awards and incentives were also distributed. In the Central Zone, led by Elías Sandoval, two Surface devices were presented to Manuel Vittini and Susan Lara Flores in recognition of achieving the highest academic averages. In the South Zone, coordinated by Moises Sauza, each student received a special gift. In the East Zone, led by Jhonny Castro, graduates were encouraged with motivational gifts.

The ceremony concluded with a prayer of blessing, dedication, and consecration offered by Víctor Jaeger, general coordinator of the Volunteer Lay Pastors Program for the Hispanic area of the Carolina Conference.

As these leaders return to their congregations, they carry renewed commitment to service, advancing the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Carolinas and beyond.

— by Elias Sandoval Mantilla