Introducing Our New Conference President: An Interview with Daniel Ortega

As the Oklahoma Conference enters a new chapter of ministry, we are pleased to welcome Daniel Ortega as our newly elected Conference President. With a heart for service and a passion for empowering others, Elder Ortega brings a wealth of pastoral, educational, and administrative experience to this role.

In this special interview, we sat down with Elder Ortega to learn more about his journey, his vision for the future, and the values that guide his leadership. 

1.     Can you share a brief overview of your career journey leading up to this position?

My ministry journey began long before I officially became a pastor. As a young person and young adult, I was blessed with opportunities to serve in various roles of leadership and ministry within the local church. I remain deeply grateful to the church leaders who mentored and empowered me during those formative years, instilling in me a passion for service and a heart for leadership.

I began full-time ministry in two small congregations in Sulphur and Davis, Oklahoma, which later merged to become what is now the Arbuckle View Church. Following the completion of a new church building there, my family and I accepted a call to serve at First Tulsa Church, where we ministered for the next five and a half years.

After our time in Tulsa, I was called to serve as the youth pastor at Glendale Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. During our time in Indiana, I also had the privilege of serving as principal at Indianapolis Junior Academy, where I led a school community of nearly 100 students. These dual roles allowed me to integrate pastoral and educational leadership in meaningful ways.

Following several impactful years in Indiana, we relocated to Oklahoma City, where I served as both the Youth Director and Communication Director for the Oklahoma Conference. Years later, our family moved to the Pacific Northwest, where I served as Associate Director for Family and Children’s Ministries at the Oregon Conference. Most recently, I have been serving as the Youth Director for the Southern California Conference.

Each step of this journey has expanded my understanding of ministry, deepened my commitment to service, and strengthened my calling to support and lead others in Christ-centered mission and discipleship.

2.     What are some of your proudest accomplishments in your current or previous roles?

A couple things come to mind: While serving in Indiana, I was unexpectedly called to step into the role of principal following a tragic event. Though the circumstances were challenging, the experience became a significant period of growth and learning for me as a leader. During my tenure, we were not only able to stabilize and grow the school, but we also introduced new programs that enriched the student experience and strengthened our academic offerings. Additionally, we deepened our engagement with the community and built stronger, more collaborative relationships with our constituency churches—efforts that were instrumental in fostering a more unified and supportive educational environment.

During my tenure as pastor of First Tulsa Church, I had the unique opportunity to lead and minister to three distinct congregations under one roof: our primary English-speaking group, a Spanish-speaking congregation, and Oklahoma’s first SDA Zomi congregation. This multicultural ministry setting was both enriching and transformative, allowing me to develop a deeper understanding of cross-cultural leadership and inclusive pastoral care. Through intentional relationship-building, culturally sensitive ministry, and collaborative worship, we were able to foster unity while respecting each group’s identity. I'm especially proud that the Burmese ministry, which began under our care, has since grown and flourished into two vibrant, independent churches in the Tulsa metro area.

3.     What do you enjoy most about your work, and what challenges have shaped you?

Over the years, one of the most rewarding aspects of my ministry has been the opportunity to serve and mentor young people. I’ve found great joy in creating meaningful opportunities for youth to actively engage in service, helping them discover their gifts and develop a heart for ministry. Equally important has been the time spent building strong interpersonal relationships with both the youth and their leaders, fostering trust, spiritual growth, and a sense of community. These experiences have not only allowed me to support the next generation of leaders but have also enriched my own leadership journey.

In general, I genuinely enjoy building relationships with local church leaders and members. For me, ministry is deeply relational—it's about more than just programs or initiatives; it's about being present, being a friend, and walking alongside individuals in their life journey. Whether through shared ministry, personal conversations, or moments of support during challenging times, I find great fulfillment in connecting with people on a personal level and fostering a sense of trust, encouragement, and spiritual companionship within the church community.

4.     Outside of work, what hobbies or interests bring you joy?

My greatest joy comes from spending quality time with my wife and sons. As a family, we love being outdoors—especially going on long, adventurous hikes that allow us to connect with nature and with each other. Personally, I also enjoy staying active through playing basketball and going on long-distance runs, and I occasionally participate in competitive 5K races. In addition, I have a deep passion for international travel (especially mission trips) and have been fortunate to visit 15 different countries, most of which provided opportunities to preach and share the gospel.

5.     Can you tell us a bit about your family or personal life (if comfortable)?

I was born in Chicago but spent most of my childhood in Texas, growing up alongside my brother and sister. I met my wife, Yesenia, in Dallas during my time serving as a student pastor. While we were dating, we had the privilege of ministering together in youth ministry at our local church—a formative experience that laid the foundation for our shared commitment to service. Immediately after getting married (literally the same day), we moved to Sulphur, Oklahoma, where we began our journey of ministry as a family.

Our oldest son, Benjamin, was born while I was pastoring the Arbuckle View Church, and our youngest son, Isaac, was born during our time at First Tulsa Church. Both congregations played a meaningful role in the naming of our sons, reflecting the deep connections we’ve formed with the communities we've served. Recently, Benjamin just finished his sophomore year of high school, and we recently celebrated Isaac’s eighth grade graduation. Over the years, both have been actively involved in ministry, regularly contributing to various programs and services I’ve planned and led. Watching them grow—not only in age but also in faith and service—has been one of the greatest blessings of my personal and pastoral life.

6.     How has your involvement in the local church or community influenced your perspective?

Throughout the years, as I’ve had the privilege of serving in various ministry roles and engaging with both church members and the broader community, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for the foundational role that relationships play in effective ministry. I firmly believe that true ministry begins in connecting with people one-on-one, by meeting individuals where they are, listening to their stories, and walking alongside them in their personal journeys.

It’s through these authentic connections that trust is built, and it’s only when people feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued that we can begin to have a meaningful spiritual influence in their lives. When individuals know that you sincerely care about them and their loved ones, it opens the door for deeper impact and lasting transformation.

7.     What are your goals for this administration, and how do you hope to make an impact?

As we move forward in our God-ordained mission to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I believe we are standing at a pivotal moment—one where we can build on the strong foundation laid by leaders who have come before us, while also casting a renewed vision for the future of our Conference. I am confident that, by God’s grace and through collective effort, we can step into the next chapter with clarity, purpose, and unity.

There are several key areas where I am particularly excited to see how God will lead and bless our work:

• Community Engagement and Impact: I am passionate about inspiring growth in the way we serve and connect with our local communities. This includes discovering new and creative methods for outreach, while also revitalizing traditional approaches that remain effective. I believe in emphasizing Christ’s method alone—meeting people where they are, ministering to their needs, and inviting them into a transformed life through relationship and service.

• Fostering Unity and Collaboration: One of my core priorities is to lead in cultivating a spirit of unity and collaboration across our ministries, churches, and schools. We are stronger together, and I envision a culture where our institutions actively support one another, share resources, and celebrate collective wins as we pursue our shared mission.

• Investing in the Next Generation: Our youth are not just the future—they are the now. I’m deeply committed to supporting our schools and youth ministries in their efforts to disciple and empower young people to be bold in their faith, resilient in their convictions, and well-equipped to lead with integrity and purpose.

• Enhancing the Ministry of Our Camp: Our camp holds incredible potential as a center for spiritual growth, fellowship, training, and life-changing outdoor experiences. I aim to prioritize resources and planning that will allow it to expand its capacity and reach, creating meaningful and lasting memories for generations to come.

• Promoting Open Communication and Shared Leadership: I believe in fostering a culture of openness and transparency, where leaders at every level feel heard, valued, and engaged. My goal is to create intentional spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and shared decision-making that will strengthen trust and unity across our Conference.

• Building a Culture of Engagement and Feedback: Lastly, I want to nurture an environment where personal ministry is intentional and constituent feedback is embraced. This will allow us to adapt and grow in how we serve, ensuring our schools and churches receive the support they need to thrive.

  
  

In all these efforts, my heart is to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, stay grounded in Scripture, and serve with humility and vision. I believe the best days for our Conference are ahead—and I am honored to be part of the journey.

8.     Is there a particular moment or experience that defines your leadership style?

Serving as a deacon for nearly a decade has provided me with a strong foundation in both faith and leadership. It was a transformative experience that deeply shaped my approach to servant leadership—teaching me the importance of humility, empathy, and putting the needs of others first. This role not only strengthened my commitment to service but also equipped me with practical skills in communication, collaboration, and spiritual guidance, all of which continue to influence my leadership style today.

9.     Bonus

From a place of deep personal conviction, I firmly believe that as followers of Christ—whether as individuals, families, churches, or as a Conference—we must continually and intentionally seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of our Christian journey. It is only through His leading that we can truly grow in Christlikeness and fulfill our calling in this world. One verse that has profoundly shaped and strengthened my faith is Luke 11:13, which reminds us of the goodness of our Heavenly Father and His willingness to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask. This promise has become a cornerstone of my spiritual life and leadership approach.