Rob Lang has accepted the invitation of the North Pacific Union Conference (NPUC) executive committee to become NPUC director of youth ministry. He comes to this position from a similar role at the Georgia-Cumberland Conference based in Calhoun, Ga. Lang’s wife, Velvet, will become a part-time assistant director, carrying forward long experience with assisting her husband in youth ministry. Both plan to assume their duties with the NPUC as soon as they can effectively wrap up existing responsibilities with their current roles in Georgia.
This move underscores a renewed emphasis on the No. 1 priority for the NPUC — that of young adult engagement. The role Lang will step into has been expanded to include support for local conference efforts for children, high school age youth, collegiate and young adults. He will integrate into current and ongoing efforts initiated by Ben Lundquist, Oregon Conference young adult ministries director, to develop Adventist Church Growing Young/Growing Together cohorts throughout the Northwest.
“Rob and Velvet bring a stellar track record of dedication to Adventist young people,” says John Freedman, NPUC president. “Rob is a highly respected mentor for many youth leaders. I know he will bring new energy and focus to our NPUC-wide emphasis on youth and young adult ministry.”
This marks a return to the Northwest for the Langs. Rob served the Oregon Conference as youth ministries director from 1993 to 2002, while Velvet worked as the assistant director and business manager for Big Lake Youth Camp. They have fulfilled similar duties for the Georgia-Cumberland Conference since then.
Rob Lang brings deep experience to this new opportunity. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich., and has a long list of practical experience with children and youth of all ages. He has won numerous awards from the North American Division for camp ministry and is an active mentor for camp directors. Velvet has a master’s degree in education.
“Velvet and I feel humbled by the task and privileged for the opportunity to work in this new capacity,” says Lang. “We look forward to the adventure ahead.”
NPUC leaders invite members to pray for the Langs as they transition, as well as for a renewed commitment in our Northwest churches to integrating Adventist youth in active mission for Christ.
Rob Lang
Rob and Velvet Lang with their family: (from left) Breck, Aubrey, Rob, Velvet, Kyle Benge (son-in-law), Kaleigh Benge and Colton.
