About Us

Revised March 21,2026

Lifehouse International SDA Church was first formed in Centennial, Colorado, and held its first worship gathering a Bible study and prayer meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

The group began with a total of 38 members, consisting of 7 families, including adults and children. Within five months, membership had grown to nearly 64 active and inactive participants.

The organizational structure of Lifehouse International SDA Church began one week prior to March 11, 2015, when the leader Elder Wayne Rumambi and Pastor Jantje Rumambi contacted the Central States Conference in Kansas City. Within just three days, the Conference responded by sending Pastor Robert Coronado, who was serving at the time as the Multicultural Director, to connect with the group and begin planning for the establishment of an official worship group in accordance with conference guidelines.

Arrangements were quickly made, and on the very first Sabbath of that week March 14, 2015 Pastor Coronado attended the group’s first Sabbath worship service at their initial location: 14190 E. Jewell Ave #3, Aurora, CO 80012.

That same Sabbath afternoon, after earnest prayer in both the sanctuary and small groups, the first official organizational meeting took place. During this meeting, the leadership structure was formally established. Pastor Jantje Rumambi was appointed as a Bible Worker under the guidance of Pastor Coronado and the Central States Conference.

At Pastor Coronado’s proposal, the name “Lifehouse International SDA Church” was chosen. The name “Lifehouse” aligned with other Adventist groups under his guidance, with the shared vision of becoming a training center for souls in service to the Lord. The word “International” was added by Elder Wayne Rumambi to reflect the diverse ethnic backgrounds represented within the congregation. The members unanimously agreed to this name.

As the congregation grew and the initial worship space became inadequate, the church relocated after six months of service in Aurora. In September 2015, Lifehouse moved to a larger location at 8085 E. Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231. During this time, new families joined the church, and many joint worship services and social events were held to strengthen faith and fellowship.

A few months later, the Conference appointed a new district pastor, Pastor Rene Marquez, who brought a strong focus on increasing youth involvement and activity within the church.

After several more months in Denver, the church sought a location closer to the majority of its members. Through prayer and dedicated effort, Lifehouse moved in 2017 to its third location at 1800 S. Tower Rd, Aurora, CO 80013.

That same year, the Central States Conference assigned Pastor Thomas Degyves as district pastor and Multicultural Director. Pastor Degyves brought energy, passion, and a joyful spirit to the ministry, along with the ability to speak Spanish fluently an asset that greatly benefited the multicultural congregation. He continues to serve faithfully in this role.

Under Pastor Degyves’ guidance and leadership, Lifehouse reached a significant milestone. On May 5, 2018, the church was officially inaugurated by Pastor Cryston Josiah The Vice President of Central States Conference and formally recognized as a company.

Over the years, Lifehouse has been blessed to host many guest speakers from local, conference, union, and General Conference levels. Notably, the church welcomed the renowned Adventist quartet, The King’s Heralds, recipients of numerous awards including “Excellence in Media,” multiple “Best Male Vocal Group” and “Best Album” honors, as well as the Angel Award for their radio program Sounds of Praise Gold.

Since 2018, the church has remained focused on its mission, living with the awareness that Christ may return at any time. This conviction has strengthened the commitment to sharing the gospel widely and bringing as many souls as possible into God’s kingdom.

With the motto, “I want Jesus more than anything,” Lifehouse expanded its mission internationally. The church held major evangelistic outreach events in Indonesia:

• In Parepei, more than 25 individuals accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
• In 2019, in Kauditan, another 25+ souls were baptized.
• In 2020, in Manado City, a youth-led evangelistic effort resulted in over 20 baptisms.

These efforts demonstrated God’s abundant blessings and the church’s dedication to mission work. At that time for the first time Lifehouse Vocal Group Ministry and Children Ministry were formed by Mrs. Grace Rumambi for this particular special mission to bring other to know Jesus and except Jesus as their personal savior.

Although annual evangelistic meetings were planned, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted these activities. By God’s grace, the church resumed its mission efforts in 2024, with evangelistic meetings planned for May and June. The congregation continues to pray for God’s guidance and success in these endeavors.

On March 26, 2022, Lifehouse welcomed Pastor Noldy Sakul and Pastor Robert Walean as additional pastors. They were officially welcomed by Pastor Gary Thurber, President of the Mid-America Union Conference.

At the beginning of 2023, Lifehouse established its first church choir under the leadership of Roger Rong and Nova Pan who recently just moved from Shanghai China.

Due to time limitations at its location, the church temporarily relocated in 2023 to 18511 E. Hampden Ave #204, Aurora, CO 80013, allowing continued ministry activities such as seminars, family programs, youth programs, and choir practice.

By God’s grace and through the faithful prayers of the members, a new and more suitable place of worship was secured in February 2024 at 5101 S. Dayton St, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 worships up until June 2025.

In December 2023, our pioneer and founder Pastor Jantje Rumambi retired from active pastoral ministry but continues to serve as a dedicated member and servant leader within the church.

We express our deepest gratitude for Pastor Rumambi’s faithful ministry, unwavering commitment, and spiritual guidance. His tireless efforts have touched countless lives and left a lasting legacy in the hearts of many.

Following his retirement, Pastor Noldy Sakul was appointed as Lead Pastor, with Pastor Robert Walean serving alongside him in continued ministry until March 2,2024 and left the church for church planting.

A New Beginning

March 2, 2024, marked a significant Sabbath for Lifehouse International SDA Church. Under the guidance of Pastor Tomas Degyves, serving as both the Conference representative and District Pastor, the entire congregation came together in heartfelt and earnest prayer. With complete surrender and a unified purpose, they sought God’s direction in discerning whom He had chosen to serve as the Senior Pastor of the Lifehouse congregation.

Following a season of collective, small-group, and personal prayer, the church was led to the decision that Pastor Max Wauran was God’s chosen shepherd for this ministry. The congregation entrusted Elder Wayne Rumambi, Head Elder of Lifehouse International SDA Church, to contact Pastor Wauran on their behalf.

Upon receiving the invitation, Pastor Wauran humbly requested time to pray and seek God’s guidance together with his wife before making a final decision. After this period of earnest prayer—both by Pastor Wauran and the congregation—God confirmed His calling.

Pastoral Installation and Leadership

On October 12, 2024, Pastor Max Wauran was officially installed as Senior Pastor by Pastor Tomas Degyves, representing the Central States Conference. The occasion was further honored by the presence of Pastor Dr. Charles Blythe, a special Conference delegate and guest speaker from Oakwood University in Tennessee.

At the same time, Pastor Ismael Cortes was appointed to serve alongside Pastor Wauran as Associate Pastor and Youth Pastor.

The installation ceremony was a joyful and memorable celebration, attended by delegates from churches across Colorado and surrounding regions, as well as ministers from beyond the state. It was truly a special blessing and a gracious gift from God to the Lifehouse congregation.

A Season of Growth and Renewal

Under the leadership of Pastor Max Wauran and his wife, the church has experienced remarkable growth—spiritually, mentally, socially, and physically. Both the quality and quantity of the congregation have flourished.

From the very beginning of his ministry, Pastor Wauran led by example through a life deeply rooted in prayer. His consistent dedication to praying personally, for his family, and for the entire congregation has had a profound impact. He is truly a man of prayer, and through his leadership, the church continues to grow and advance in faith.

Even prior to his official installation, Pastor Wauran had already begun ministering to the congregation. He officiated a service of comfort on October 3, 2024, and led the first Communion Service at Lifehouse on Sabbath, October 5, 2024.

Ministry Expansion

Since Pastor Wauran and his wife began shepherding the congregation, members have grown steadily in faith, hope, and love—both individually and as a unified church family.

The church has seen significant expansion in its ministries, including the rapid development of a vibrant music ministry. This includes the formation of a women’s quartet—modeled after The King’s Heralds—featuring:

• Mrs. Grace Rumambi (1st Tenor)
• Mrs. Ramey Wahongan (Alto)
• Mrs. Nontje Gahung Wauran (2nd Tenor)
• Mrs. Altje Karundeng (Bass)

This marked a historic first for the church. Additional ministries were also established, including a male vocal group, a male quartet, a general church vocal ensemble, choir, family ministry, personal evangelism initiatives, and evangelistic meetings.

Financially, the church reached a record high within the Conference. Membership increased, retreats were organized, and—praise God—baptisms were conducted at the YMCA of Colorado. Among those baptized were Ms. Leslie Sumakul and Caelyn Rumambi, fruits of the Lifehouse Evangelistic Meetings.

Media and Technology Ministry

A major milestone in the church’s development has been the growth of the Lifehouse Media Ministry. This ministry was initiated and led through the tireless dedication and sacrifice of Brother Steven Sumakul.

Through his efforts, the church now broadcasts services across multiple platforms, including Facebook Live, YouTube, Instagram, Zoom, and the official church website, which is updated weekly. Additional contributions include visual media galleries, management of the church’s online presence, and oversight of the E-Adventist system entrusted by the Conference.

The redesign of the church logo on May 12, 2024, also reflects the church’s forward vision and commitment to excellence.

The congregation expresses deep gratitude to Brother Steven for his unwavering dedication and service, which has become a powerful channel of blessing to many.

Sound and Worship Support

The church has also been blessed with advancements in sound technology, including a new sound system and the faithful service of Brother Ventje Nelwan as sound engineer. Together with his wife, Elder Ignes, he serves with great dedication and prayerful commitment.

Youth Revival and Future Generations

Another major breakthrough has been the revival of the Adventist Youth Ministry. After a six-year pause, God sent Sister Sesly Kalangi and Sister Juwita Kussoy to lead and restore the youth program. Under the supervision and direction of Elder Ignes Nelwan Emor.

Since then, the youth ministry has flourished, offering activities such as Friday night vespers, Bible studies, outreach to the homeless, youth convocations across Colorado, sports events, and social gatherings. The youth have also actively participated in joint programs with other churches through music and worship.

Praise God, the youth ministry remains vibrant and impactful today.

In addition, a new Pathfinder Ministry was launched in early 2026 and is currently developing steadily marking yet another historic milestone for Lifehouse.

Vision for the Future

One of the most significant developments has been the church’s commitment to building a permanent place of worship. Since 2024, the congregation has been prayerfully and diligently raising funds for the construction of a Lifehouse International SDA Church building.

By God’s grace, construction is planned to begin in 2028, with a dedication target of 2029, if it is His will.

Following the encouragement and guidance of Pastor Tomas Degyves, Pastor Max Wauran and Elder Wayne Rumambi submitted an official application in November 2025 to change the church’s status from a “Company” to a “Full Church.”

A Historic Achievement

In December 2025, the Central States Conference Executive Committee convened to review the request. On January 5, 2026, Pastor Tomas Degyves shared the joyful news:

Lifehouse International SDA Church had officially been voted to transition from a Company to a Full Church.

To God be the highest praise!

Closing Reflection

Above all, none of these accomplishments would have been possible without God’s grace, guidance, and unfailing love. Every milestone is a testament to His faithfulness.

This journey has also been strengthened by the consistent prayers of Pastor Max Wauran and his wife, Nontje Wauran, supported by the united prayers of the entire Lifehouse congregation.

Praise God for everything—God is good all the time!

Closing Message

Dear beloved brethren,

As we gather to celebrate this significant milestone in the life of our church, we are filled with gratitude and awe. Our journey has been marked by faith, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the service of our Lord.

We stand today on the shoulders of faithful men and women who labored tirelessly to establish this place of worship. Their sacrifices, prayers, and dedication have made this moment possible.

Let us remember that it is not by our might nor by our power, but by the grace of Almighty God that we have come this far. As we rededicate ourselves to His service, may we continually seek His wisdom, guidance, and strength.

May our church be a beacon of hope, a refuge for the weary, and a place where lives are transformed. Let our worship be sincere, our fellowship genuine, and our love for one another steadfast.

As we move forward, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. May His love inspire us to reach the lost, serve the hurting, and minister selflessly to our community.

In unity, we find strength. Together, let us proclaim the Good News and advance His kingdom for His glory.

May the Lord bless our efforts abundantly, multiply our resources, empower our ministries, and bring many souls to salvation.
As it is written, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1).

To God be the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.

With love and blessings,
Lifehouse International SDA Church