Dr. Bradford C. Newton accepted the call to become the president of the Nevada-Utah Conference, as former president Larry Moore accepted a pastoral call to Burleson, Texas.

Résumé

Newton has served since 1999 as the government affairs director for the Pacific Union. He comes to the Nevada-Utah Conference with varied experience in pastoral ministry and department leadership in the Illinois and Southern California conferences. Newton holds Bachelor of Theology, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Andrews University.

Family

Newton is joined in ministry by his wife, Jennifer. Previous to their move to the Reno area, Jennifer was employed by Adventist Health in Roseville, Calif., as the productivity coordinator. She earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Jones International University in 2004. The Newton’s have two children — Amanda, a junior business major at Pacific Union College, and Tyler, a freshman general studies major at Pacific Union College.

Mission

“Knowing Jesus as my Savior and Friend has made all the difference in my life," says Newton, who recommends moving outside personal comfort zones. "I want everyone I meet to know Him, too. The urgency of our task magnifies when we fully appreciate our placement in prophetic time. The cultural, political and religious trends of our nation point like a laser to the nearness of Jesus’ return. Therefore, we must act boldly. Every tool must be utilized. Each creative impulse cultivated."

“Great things happen only when we first humble ourselves before our Heavenly Father in prayer," Newton continues. "Like our Adventist pioneers, I want to be pleading for a renewal of my own heart and those of our people. Vibrant, friendly churches and schools, members happy in their walk with Jesus, and pastors and teachers exercising their gifts in a supportive, encouraging work setting is the fruit of the spiritual renewal for which I pray daily."

Newton begins his tenure during the world Church's official "Year of Evangelism," and recognizes the challenges that the small, lower-budget churches in his territory face. “Evangelism is not an event but a way of life for both believers and churches," Newton says. "Evangelism is being visual and active within the local community all year round. Evangelism is health programs, community service activities, and quality education programs in the church school. In fact, evangelism is limited only by our Spirit-filled imaginations and willingness to venture into uncharted territory. It’s been said that people don’t care what you know until they know that you care. Evangelistic churches come in every shape and size, but they share one fundamental trait — they have a heart for people who need to know Jesus.”

To his new Nevada-Utah family, Newton says: “Our family comes to join our hearts with yours in service for the Master. God has amazing times ahead for all of us and we are excited to be able to work with the faithful members and outstanding pastors and teachers in this corner of the Lord’s vineyard. I have no doubt that great days are ahead for each of us.”