Exactly 100 years after 16 Seventh-day Adventists signed up as charter members of the first congregation in Loma Linda, Calif., the Campus Hill church not only celebrated the dedication of courageous pioneers but also cast a large vision for future ministry.

Dynamic speakers, musicians, former pastors, university and city leaders and dignitaries from every level of the Adventist church gathered to participate in the weekend event, Jan. 6-8. With more than 2,000 worshippers, the 1,000-seat sanctuary had standing-room only on Sabbath morning. Eighty-eight attendees said they came in response to invitations on Campus Hill’s regular radio and TV broadcasts.

“This church is truly a light upon the hill,” said Gerald Penick, Southeastern California Conference president, in his greetings. It has spawned seven congregations including five in the Inland Empire — Loma Linda University, Arden Hills, Victoria, Valley Fellowship and the Loma Linda Romanian Church. Two others are at a distance in Hobbs, N.M., and across the border in Valle de la Trinidad Mission, (Baja, Calif.), Mexico.

“My dream for the Campus Hill church is based on Joel 2,” said William G. Johnsson, executive publisher and editor of the Adventist Review, in the morning sermon. “I see it as a community of possibility, one that values diversity, and a place where people receive a second chance at life through God’s grace.”

To facilitate its growing ministries, Campus Hill began a $2.5 million renovation on the church last June. Later, the congregation hopes to build a $5 million addition. New facilities will encompass an auditorium and family life center, space for young adult and youth ministries, a fellowship hall, kitchen, offices, and outdoor baptismal font.

“We cannot rest on our laurels. Our work has only begun,” said Senior Pastor Hyveth Williams. “We dream of those who will find spiritual refuge here as we fulfill our divine calling.”

Campus Hill History at a Glance

Jan. 6, 1906—Charter members organize in sanitarium parlor; John Burden, pastor

April 14, 1906—Ellen White speaks

1907—Meet in assembly hall, Loma Linda Hotel

1910—Build “The Chapel,” seating 700

Nov. 6, 1912—Ellen White’s last sermon to the congregation

1937—Build present sanctuary

1960—Add Linda Hall for youth, social activities

1967—Refurbish sanctuary, add offices

1977—Add north wing

1980—Upgrade chancel

2005—Refurbish sanctuary