Fourth-generation Adventist Pete Knudsen was ordained to the gospel ministry Jan. 19 at the Long Beach church. Knudsen came to Southern California from Michigan by way of Florida, where he met and married his wife, Karen. Throughout his life, Knudsen, whose 6’11” height gives him a unique vantagepoint, had sensed God’s call to ministry even while working as a hospital engineering mechanic.

The Knudsens relocated to California for their education, attending La Sierra University for both undergraduate and graduate work. In August of 2003, the couple traveled to China, returning with one of their greatest joys, their daughter Lin.

Gerard Kiemeney, LA Metro Region director, presented Knudsen as a candidate for ordination, affirming him for his ministry to families and children, adding that he is “a ‘no nonsense’ pastor who tells the truth as he sees it.”

Responding to the call to ministry and ministerial charge presented by pastors Tony Anobile and Jim Pedersen, respectively, and to the homily given by SCC President Larry L. Caviness, Knudsen reflected that “Pastors are called to share a dream for ministry, for Christ.”