At the time of her appointment, Pastor Chris commented that, “Having the opportunity to return to my alma mater and serve in a University community is a cherished life opportunity.” President of La Sierra University, Randall Wisbey shared that, “Her appointment is particularly appropriate, as La Sierra University and the University Church have a long and proud tradition of seeking justice, including justice in ministry, providing gender inclusiveness as a model for University students, both women and men, as well as each member of this congregation.”

Chris Oberg is a native of the Pacific Northwest, born and raised in Portland, Oregon. After graduating from Walla Walla University with a degree in Nutrition, Chris, and her husband Kerby, moved to Loma Linda, California for Kerby to pursue his education with Loma Linda University School for Medicine and Graduate Schools. Chris spent several years working at Loma Linda University Medical Center and other hospitals, eventually specializing in Maternal and Infant Nutrition.

It was several years later, after the birth of daughters Amanda and Alisa, while working as a maternal and infant nutritionist, Pastor Chris sensed God’s calling to ministry. Enrolling in La Sierra University, Oberg earned a BA degree in religion in 2000, and a MA in Religious Studies in 2005. She also served on the pastoral staff of the LSU church during that time. After completing her MA, Oberg accepted the senior pastor position at the Calimesa Adventist church, a 1200-member congregation near Loma Linda, California. She received a Rising Star Award from the La Sierra University Alumni Association in 2007.

Chris Oberg is married to Kerby Oberg, who teaches pathology and anatomy at Loma Linda University. Their two daughters both attend La Sierra University. «less

Before coming to Kenya in 2008 Joy was the Director of Women’s Ministries for the South Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist church for 8 years. She, together with her eldest son Marlon, helped to set up the ADRA KEEP GIRLS SAFE project in Thailand. She is the 4th Vice President of the Woman’s Christian Temperance and Field Officer for the African continent. She sees enormous possibilities for expansion for this important ministry and oldest surviving women’s organisation.

She writes and speaks about issues relating to women in Africa and everywhere. Her concern and desire is to see women empowered and blessed to be all they can be – just as God in His gracious plan, designed for them.

Joy is the originator of ‘Women of Faith and Excellence’, a growing support group via Facebook and seminars. She believes in the equality of people and teaches that women can be faith filled and pursue excellence in every area of their lives.

Her background includes being born and educated in New Zealand before continuing her studies in theology in Australia. She is a secretary, teacher, chaplain, writer and lover of nature, fine music and all things beautiful. She is the proud mother of three adult children and one grandchild. She is a citizen of the world and has travelled extensively. She takes special interest in how women live, endeavoring to do her part to teach them to be women of courage and spirit. She encourages women to be bold for Christ and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. «less

The mission of the Association of Adventist Women is to foster the participation of women in varied leadership roles in Seventh-day Adventist organizations, congregations, and communities. AAW has been an advocate for women in the SDA church, strongly recommending changes to various church entities to enable women to use their gifts fully and work with equity within the structure. »website

The mission of the Women’s Ministries Department is to model Jesus Christ through meaningful relationships and effective ministries. We exist to encourage, equip, promote, and challenge Adventist women in their journey as disciples of Jesus Christ and members of His Church and to bring women's unique perspectives to the issues facing the Church. »website

The Center for Women Clergy seeks to build support systems for women in ministry, foster spiritual and professional growth while at the seminary, create community among Adventist women clergy, and gather resources to assist them in their ministry. »website

The Department of Women's Ministries exists to uphold, encourage, and challenge Adventist women in their pilgrimage as disciples of Jesus Christ and members of His world church. »website