Meet the Pastor

A Vision Rooted in Love

Pastor Kendall White is a devoted servant-leader whose life and ministry have been shaped by faith, heritage, education, and a deep love for people.

Originally from Harvey, Illinois, Pastor White was raised in a fourth-generation Seventh-day Adventist family. From an early age, he sensed God’s call upon his life. His service to the church began remarkably young, joining the adult choir before he could read and being baptized at the age of six at Morgan Park Seventh-day Adventist Church in Chicago, Illinois. Even as a child, he demonstrated a heart for ministry, volunteering as a children’s Sabbath School assistant and serving as a deacon before junior deacons were formally established at his church.

Throughout his years of growth and development, Pastor White faithfully served in numerous capacities including Sabbath School Teacher and Superintendent, AY Leader, Pathfinder Director, Usher, Deacon, Elder, Youth Leader, and Treasurer. His consistent dedication to church service prepared him for expanded pastoral leadership within the Southern California Conference, where he has served as Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, and Senior Pastor.

Pastor White pursued formal theological training to equip himself for ministry further. He attended the University of Iowa and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from La Sierra University. He attended the Master of Divinity program at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. His educational journey reflects his commitment to both spiritual depth and theological excellence.

On November 11, 2006, Pastor White arrived at Restoration Center with a clear and prayerful vision. From the beginning, his desire was not merely to maintain a building, but to cultivate spiritual renewal and transformation. He envisioned a church that would experience consistent revival through evangelistic series every two years, keeping soul-winning and discipleship at the center of its mission.

Under his leadership, Restoration Center expanded beyond the sanctuary walls into the surrounding community. What began as a Food Distribution Ministry evolved into a comprehensive outreach initiative serving families and individuals in need, including the home insecure. This ministry provides not only food, but dignity, compassion, prayer, and hope.

At the heart of Pastor White’s leadership is one unwavering vision: to build a church that truly loves people.

A church where individuals feel seen.
A church that serves before it speaks.
A church that reflects Christ’s love in action.

Pastor White is married to the lovely Ida Skyers-Gordon of Belize, Central America. Together they are blessed with two beautiful children, Kendall Leland White II (KJ) and Nahla Samar. His greatest joy, beyond family, is serving the Lord faithfully and leading God’s people with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

Pastor Kendall White’s greatest desire is to serve God wholeheartedly and to shepherd a ministry that transforms lives for eternity.

Meet the Pastors Family

At Restoration Seventh-day Adventist Church, ministry is not carried by one person alone, but by a family committed to serving God and serving others together. Pastor Kendall White, alongside his wife, First Lady Ida White, and their children, Kendall White II and Nahla White, share a heart for building a church community rooted in faith, compassion, and connection.

Pastor Kendall White leads with strength and conviction, faithfully carrying the responsibility of delivering God’s Word and guiding the church with purpose and dedication. His passion for ministry is centered on encouraging spiritual growth and helping individuals and families find restoration through faith.

First Lady Ida White plays an essential role in the life of the church, coordinating outreach and continually seeking ways to support and uplift others. Known for her generous spirit and caring heart, she is deeply committed to building community and helping people experience both the love of God and the support of those around them.

Their son, Kendall White II, serves behind the scenes through technology and media, helping share worship and church moments through video and social media so that messages of encouragement can reach beyond the church walls. Their daughter, Nahla White, shares her gift through music, singing each Sabbath alongside her brother and contributing to worship through song and praise.

Together, the White family reflects the spirit of Restoration, a church grounded in faith, family, and service. While ministry continues to grow and evolve, its desire remains the same: to create a welcoming environment where all are invited to worship, connect, and experience the love of God. During church functions and community gatherings, all are welcome to come together in fellowship and worship as one family.