Elder Ed Moore: Collaborative Work Revitalizes Oakhurst Adventist Church

This month Central California Conference wants to recognize Ed Moore, head elder of Oakhurst Adventist Church, who has been energizing the congregation and fostering a participatory spirit among members for the past eight years. A third-generation Adventist and Fresno Academy alumnus — where he met his wife, Dora — Moore's personal journey is defined by an unwavering commitment to serving his church family.

Moore's wife, Dora, plays a crucial role as head deaconess, especially in addressing the needs of women in the congregation. Their partnership exemplifies the strength of shared leadership, ensuring every need is met through collaboration and mutual support.

Every morning, Moore begins his day with a sabbath school lesson, Bible study and prayer for his family, grandchildren and the church. "God wakes me up each day, and when He goes after me, how can I only spend time with Him on Sabbath?" he said. This devoted start reflects the passion and consistency he brings to his role at Oakhurst.

As head elder, Moore has embraced a wide range of responsibilities to keep the church running smoothly. When special needs arise, members turn to him as a unifying presence. Moore emphasizes active ministry. He urges members not to confine their spiritual lives to weekly services but to engage fully with the community. "Many only open their Bibles when it's time for the sermon," he observed. "I believe ministry is a shared responsibility — when people are involved, they truly experience God's love and see lives change."

Approaches such as pre-service greetings, rotating responsibilities for opening prayers and scripture readings have transformed the church into a close-knit family that values every contribution. He advocates a decentralized approach, sharing responsibilities that keep the church both responsive and connected.

Despite challenges posed by reduced attendance during the past pandemic, collaborative work has revitalized Oakhurst. Members now take initiative through Bible studies, fellowship and community outreach. "I try to impress upon our members that the church isn't just a place to be fed spiritually — it's a place where we all work together to feed others," Moore said.

Looking ahead, Moore is excited about an upcoming 12-night evangelistic series designed to draw the community together. The series will begin at a community center before moving to the church fellowship hall, providing a welcoming environment for both regular members and newcomers.

He called on the broader conference and local churches to join in prayer for the meeting and for the continued spiritual growth of small congregations like Oakhurst.

Throughout the conversation, Moore emphasized his humble role: "I see myself as merely a facilitator — it's God working through me and our church family." His remarks underscore his belief that ministry's strength comes through every member's participation.

In a time marked by pastoral vacancies and leadership transitions, Moore's steady hand and enduring commitment remind the congregation that a church's strength lies not in a single leader but in every member who answers the call to serve. His dedication at Oakhurst Adventist Church testifies to the power of grassroots ministry — one that thrives on the active, heartfelt participation of a community united in faith.

Written by Justin Kim