Adventist Stories is a new storytelling podcast from the Pacific Union and Growing Young Leaders that shares the moments and memories that shape a community. Join Pastor Aren Rennacker as he hears from a variety of storytellers and explores his own Adventist journey through creative and engaging narrative nonfiction.
Aren Rennacker is the producer of Adventist Stories, thanks to the support of many. He is also a pastor and the director of Growing Young Leaders with the Pacific Union. Aren holds degrees in Journalism and Theological Studies and lives in Southern California with his lovely wife Paige.
Episode 4 "Over Under"
Adam is an academy religion teacher/chaplain in Southern California. He enjoys metal music, reading theology books, playing video games, and spending time with his best friend and partner, Ariana.
Episode 4 "In Bloom"
Alexy is a youth pastor, wife, and mother. She enjoys watching and playing sports, reading a good book, and hanging with her friends. Although she is passionate about many things, she is most passionate about empowering young people in their relationship with Jesus.
Episode 7 "Adventist Embarrassment"
Amador is a California kid at heart who grew up shaped by his Adventist roots. He earn a degree in Graphic Design and Fine Art from Pacific Union College in 2012. Today he works as a research and development producer in the tech industry in the South Bay, bringing a creative and expressive lens to everything he does.
Episode 1 "Just Be"
Episode 7 "The Fumble"
Ben is a youth pastor in Riverside, CA. While his interests are in film, manga, and graphic novels, his passion is sparked in reminding young people that they are deeply loved by Jesus. He is grateful for the opportunities God has led him to and is blessed to participate in the goodness that God is already doing.
Episode 8 "Faife'au"
In his third decade of Adventist youth ministry, Benji has a passion for student ministries and developing student leaders. He also enjoys sports, including golf, tennis, skiing and surfing, and spending time with his family.
Episode 6 "Dear Church"
Carla Monnier is a physical therapist with experience in neurologic rehabilitation and orthopedics. In 2018, she sustained a spinal cord injury after being shot while driving home. Today, she serves as a youth and young adult pastor in Orlando, FL, where she continues her passion for improving quality of life by helping people find hope, purpose, and resilience.
Episode 7 "Adventist Embarrassment"
Danielle, or "Dani," is an aircraft mechanic in Kelso, Washington. She enjoys reading, rollerblading, and camping.
Episode 2 "The Boys"
Denine Matsuda is in her 40th year of Adventist teaching. She has taught nearly every elementary grade, as well as served as an adjunct education professor. She loves piano, gardening, reading, and shopping.
Episode 3 "Winning Streak"
Krista is a nurse who lives and works between Central and Northern California. She is also an avid runner, currently holding a 6+ year run streak (Over 2,300 consecutive days). She lives with her husband and two children in the coastal town of Santa Cruz.
Episode 7 "Adventist Embarrassment"
In addition to loving monkeys, Paige also enjoys reading, watching Sci-Fi, and going on walks with her husband. She recently completed a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy and is currently accruing hours towards licensure.
Episode 5 "Keep In Step"
Se Bin is a K-1 teacher in Honolulu, HI. Her love for children led her to pursue a career in education. Outside the classroom, Se Bin enjoys making the most of the year-round sunshine by reading at the beach, going on runs, and exploring local coffee shops.
Episode 7 "Adventist Embarrassment"
Zack and his wife Alicia have been married for 11 years. They have an amazing 2 year old who's the joy of their lives. He serves as a young adult and admin pastor in Glendale, Arizona.
Episode 8 "Faife'au"
Zion is a proud Samoan, born in Hawaii and raised in Washington State. As a youth pastor he enjoys investing in young people and helping them grow in their faith. Outside of ministry, he loves playing basketball, playing the piano, and enjoying a good order of McDonald’s fries.