The Visitor is printed bimonthly and is the official publication of the Columbia Union Conference for the constituents of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Mid-Atlantic area. Our mission is to provide news and information, inspiration for effective ministry, and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help engage members in experiencing the mission.
Editor and Publisher n Kelly Butler Coe
Managing Editor for Print n Ricardo Bacchus
Managing Editor for Digital Media n V. Michelle Bernard
Art Director n Kelly Butler Coe
Designer n Kylie Kajiura
Advertising Manager n Ricardo Bacchus
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PUBLISHING BOARD n Marcellus T. Robinson (chair), Kelly Butler Coe (secretary), Emmanuel Asiedu, Tim Bailey, Celeste Ryan Blyden, Marvin C. Brown, III, Bob Cundiff, Gary Gibbs, Trevor Kinlock, Stephen Lee, Jerry Lutz, Charles A. Tapp
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Allegheny East n LaTasha Hewitt, visitaec.com
Allegheny West n Keisha Bone, awconf.org
Chesapeake n Evan Knott, ccosda.org
Mountain View n Liz Bailey, mtviewconf.org
New Jersey n Stephen Lee, njcsda.org
Ohio n Francis Tuffour, ohioadventist.org
Pennsylvania n Tamyra Horst, paconference.org
Potomac n Debra Anderson, pcsda.org
Blue Mountain Academy n (vacant), bma.us
Highland View Academy n Rob Gettys, highlandviewacademy.com
Lake Nelson Adventist Academy n Ashley Boggess, lakenelsonacademy.org
Pine Forge Academy n Addriene Rhodes, pineforgeacademy.org
Shenandoah Valley Academy n Janel Haas Ware, shenandoahvalleyacademy.org
Spencerville Adventist Academy n Lauren Esveld, spencervilleacademy.org
Spring Valley Academy n Angela Peach, springvalleyacademy.org
Takoma Academy n Shaun Robinson, ta.edu
Kettering College n Courtney Dove, kc.edu
Washington Adventist University n Everett Wiles, wau.edu
Adventist HealthCare n Anne Biggins, adventisthealthcare.com
Kettering Health n Katie Kimball, ketteringhealth.org
WGTS n Lisa Krueger, wgts919.com
The Columbia Union Conference coordinates the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s work in the Mid-Atlantic United States. We provide administrative support to eight conferences; two health care networks; early childhood, elementary and secondary schools; a liberal arts university; a health sciences college; community services centers; camp and retreat centers; book and health food stores and a radio media ministry. To learn more about the Columbia Union, visit columbiaunion.org.
President n Marcellus T. Robinson
Executive Secretary n Celeste Ryan Blyden
Treasurer n Emmanuel Asiedu
Undertreasurer n Tabita Martinez
Vice President, Communication n Kelly Butler Coe
Vice President, Education n Donovan Ross
Vice President/General Counsel n Lisa Saveikis Burrow
Vice President, Ministries Development n Frank Bondurant
Vice President, Multilingual Ministries n Rubén A. Ramos
Asst. to the President for Evangelism n José D. Espósito
Secretary/Treasurer, Revolving Fund n H. Candace Nurse
Director, Information Technology Services n Greg Iverson
Director, Plant Services n Curtis Boore
Adventist ® and Seventh-day Adventist ® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists ® n The Visitor is printed and mailed at Pacific Press ® Publishing Association in Nampa, Idaho. n Unless otherwise noted, photos and illustrations are reproduced with permission from gettyimages.com.
Editorial
tim bailey
My Irreplaceable Bible
Like many Seventh-day Adventist members in the Columbia Union Conference, I own many Bibles. My most meaningful Bible is one I’ve owned since 1983—a wide-margin New King James Version. As a colporteur, then a Bible worker, then an evangelist, and now a pastor and president, I have marked up that Bible during Bible studies; I have underlined difficult passages, writing notes and references in it; and I have used it to help write countless hours of sermon notes.
It was my most prized possession.
In the summer of 2022, upon returning to the airport’s parking lot, my Hyundai Santa Fe had fallen victim to the TikTok challenge of stealing Hyundais. I stood where my car had once been parked, but now only broken glass and a Hyundai logo remained. My car had been stolen! Once reality set in, I called the police and filed a police report and insurance claim.
Of course, losing my vehicle was extremely upsetting, but realizing that my favorite Bible had been in the back seat of my car absolutely sickened me. In fact, I was more upset about the Bible than the car; the car could be replaced, but not my Bible.
A year later, at a worker’s meeting, I retold this story to a pastor, sharing how sad I still was about losing my precious Bible. Right then and there, he offered up a prayer, asking God to perform a miracle and reunite me with my treasured possession.
After the prayer, I told him, “But Jimmy, I have resolved it’s gone!”
He responded, “Well, I have faith; you will see, you’re going to get it back.”
Fast-forward nine months. My adult son came home for a visit and went to the basement to look for some personal items. He returned, inquiring why my stuff was in his bin.
A couple of days later, I went downstairs to retrieve my belongings. To my astonishment, my missing Bible was gracefully sitting on top of the clutter. How did it get there? To this day, I do not know. What I do know is that God answered Jimmy’s prayer!
God cares for each one of us. We can come to Him with anything—big or small—for He listens to our requests and answers accordingly. Maybe God has put someone on your heart who is in need of Jesus. Pray for that person! And continue to pray for Pentecost 2025—a movement to preach the gospel to North America and beyond—so that more people will see, feel and experience God’s love and care.
Tim Bailey serves as the president of the Mountain View Conference.
CONTINUE TO PRAY with the Columbia Union Conference family for all things evangelism-related. Join our monthly online prayer meeting, March 5 and April 2 at noon, via Zoom, Facebook or YouTube. Find the login information on the Visitor’s website or Facebook page.
NOT WORTH THE RISK
While some health experts have advocated a small amount of wine for health benefits, Seventh-day Adventists have long been against alcohol consumption in any amount.
In the 2025 United States Surgeon General’s Advisory report, then-U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy called on alcohol companies to include a label alerting consumers to the risks of drinking. The advisory highlighted alcohol consumption as a leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S. The report also noted that more people die from alcohol-related cancer deaths than the number of alcohol-associated traffic deaths.
WASHINGTON ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY HOSTS SUCCESSFUL MUSIC FEST
Washington Adventist University (WAU) welcomed more than 200 academy students to its annual Music Fest, Feb. 12–15. Students from Atholton Adventist Academy, Pine Forge Academy, Shenandoah Valley Academy, Spencerville Adventist Academy, Takoma Academy, and several academies from outside the union and homeschool programs gathered for a musical experience that featured band, choir and orchestra performances.
Led by WAU professors Samantha Clarke, Anwar Ottley and Preston Hawes, the festival provided young musicians with the opportunity to refine their skills through collaboration and mentorship. The National Symphony Orchestra’s live performance on campus was a major highlight. The professional musicians also conducted master classes and offered personalized coaching to the students.
The festival culminated in a final Sabbath evening concert, which drew a large crowd of church members, family and friends. In keeping with tradition, the university awarded more than $1 million in merit scholarships, helping to support students’ academic and artistic pursuits.
The 2025 Music Fest was a resounding success, leaving participants inspired and encouraged to foster a strong sense of community through the power of music, say school leaders.
WAU remains committed to providing young musicians with transformative experiences that nurture their talents and encourage a lifelong appreciation for the arts.—Simonique Dietz
‘LIKE NEVER BEFORE’
It also highlighted that, of the global 741,300 cancer cases related to alcohol consumption in 2020, more than 185,000 of them resulted from the consumption of two drinks or less a day. It cited that “17 percent of the 20,000 U.S. alcohol-related cancer deaths per year occur at levels within the [U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans] recommended limits.” Visit columbiaunionvisitor.com/upfront for
Churches and schools across the Columbia Union Conference and North American Division are preparing for and hosting their Pentecost 2025 proclamation events throughout the year.
“God is working in our Columbia Union Conference churches perhaps like never before,” says José D. Espósito, assistant to the president for Evangelism at the Columbia Union. “We have 841 registered preaching centers between schools and churches.”
Some of the participating churches or schools will host multiple evangelistic campaigns throughout the year. Leaders hope to host a combined 2,025 weeks of evangelism in 2025, reports Espósito. “In almost 30 years of serving God in the territory of the Columbia Union, I have never seen [such] an awakening toward evangelism. Without a doubt, the Holy Spirit is here.”
UpFront
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR ORGANIZING A CHURCH HOLIDAY PROGRAM
Many of the church leaders who spoke to the Visitor for this issue’s feature article also shared pragmatic advice for congregations hosting meaningful holiday programs that connect people and point them to Jesus:
• Start the legwork now by preaching sermons on outreach. Motivate members early.
• When pitching the program to your church, ensure everyone understands the rationale behind the event: to connect
NEARLY 700 YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT LEADERS FROM ACROSS THE NEW JERSEY CONFERENCE AND BEYOND RECENTLY GATHERED AT TRANQUILITY CAMP IN ANDOVER TO BE TRAINED AND EQUIPPED WITH THE SKILLS NEEDED TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE MINISTRIES. THIS ALMOST DOUBLES THE NUMBER OF ATTENDEES FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
—Stenly Gonie, an event organizer
with people who are seeking a connection with God.
• Incentivize volunteering and attendance. Free rewards like T-shirts (with the official church logo) work well.
• Communicate! Get every staff member and volunteer on the same page.
• Work within your setting—be realistic, but also creative. Add an element to your program that is unique to your community.
• Plan details early, and ensure
SHARING THEIR HOPE
elements are rehearsed and well done.
• Don’t create the program for your church members; create it for your community.
• Focus on narrative over doctrine, and appeal to the senses, allowing people to ponder. It is important for newcomers to first experience the story of Jesus and to be introduced to Adventist beliefs later.
• Pray! Pray! Pray!
—Amanda Blake
Pennsylvania Conference’s Williamsport church has distributed 6,000 copies of The Great Controversy in their community over the last two years.
The evangelistic initiative began when member Amy Fulmer heard General Conference President Ted N.C. Wilson challenge the Seventh-day Adventist Church to distribute the books in 2023 and 2024. “We took him seriously,” she shares. “What a blessing it has been!”
They began in spring of 2023 and went door-to-door each Sabbath with members, aged 10–98. So far, they’ve covered South Williamsport, Duboistown, Montoursville and Loyalsock. They will finish distributing in Williamsport in 2025 and conclude the initiative after covering the town of Newberry. In total, they will have distributed more than two pallets of books and traveled more than 37 square miles.
For the past two years, members have also placed an ad in the local paper offering the book. About 100 requests have come in, including one from a town near Pittsburgh and another from an individual in North Carolina.—Tamyra Horst
BECKY WEIGLEY PASSES AWAY AFTER A LONG BATTLE WITH CANCER
After a battle with cancer that started in April 2020, Rebecca “Becky” A. Weigley passed away Feb. 12. She was 67.
For nearly 18 years, Weigley served as the director of the Columbia Union Conference Ministerial Spouses Association, an office that supports ministry spouses who serve in the Columbia Union’s eight conferences. She retired in 2024.
Weigley ministered together with her husband, Dave Weigley, past-president of the Columbia Union, during their 47 years of marriage. Prior to the Columbia Union, they served as the presidential couple of the Potomac and Washington conferences.
Weigley was known for her exquisite decorating and organizing skills. During her years at the union headquarters in Columbia, Md., she planned countless retirement and holiday parties—always finding new ways to make an event special and the food delicious.
She brought that same attention to detail and care to her role as director of the Ministerial Spouses Association, where she worked to encourage spouses in their important but sometimes overlooked ministry.
Kids, Corner
HOW CAN YOU HELP WITH PENTECOST 2025?
Church members across the Columbia Union Conference are preparing for and participating in Pentecost 2025 all year! And you (yes, you!) are needed. You have an important role to play in evangelism and can be a big influence on other kids and adults. Don’t be afraid to volunteer for the Pentecost 2025 events that may be happening at your church. Here are some ways to be a missionary in 2025:
n As an important member of your church, you can volunteer your time and energy! You don’t have to wait until you’re an adult. For example, when members and visitors visit your church, you can greet them!
n Learn and cultivate your talents for Jesus! And then share them by praying, singing or reading Scripture during a church service. It’s OK if you don’t do it perfectly; skills take time to develop.
n Participate in a children’s choir or orchestra.
n Don’t be afraid to talk about Jesus with your friends or neighbors.
Parents, find school and student resources at columbiaunionvisitor. com/pentecost2025, provided by the North American Division.
10 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR KIDS
For the third year in a row, children in the New Jersey Conference (NJC)—and beyond—enjoyed a special 10 Days of Prayer event in January created just for them.
Reina Zapata-Mendez, a NJC Youth Department volunteer, worked with the conference’s Children’s Ministries Department to create 10 days of videos using cartoons and special presentations. Each day, viewers were guided through the different parts of the Lord’s Prayer, learning ways to apply them to their lives. Children from the local churches helped by sharing special music, Bible readings and prayers.
Tendaysofprayer.org created the resource material, which Zapata-Mendez built upon for the videos. View the series at columbiaunionvisitor.com.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BIBLE?
Did you know that Adventist Children’s Ministries has created a Bible study series just for you? Visit faithfinders.com, and ask your parents to download the “Bible Adventures for Young Readers” series that teaches the 28 fundamental beliefs in a creative and kid-friendly way. You can do online Bible jigsaw puzzles and view Gracelink’s animated Bible stories (in English, Spanish, Cantonese and Mandarin). They’re designed for kindergarten and primary level children.
“A Community Transformed” is the theme for this year’s Global Youth Day, March 15. To celebrate this event, the General Conference Youth Ministries Department is inviting youth, ages 4 to 30, to get active in their churches, schools and cities to share the three angels’ messages.
In past years, groups around the world have helped elderly community members with chores, held special prayer sessions, visited residents of nursing homes, distributed food and more.
We can’t wait to see your creative ideas and projects! Tag the Visitor on Instagram: @columbiaunionvisitor.
Noticias
v. michelle bernard
NO VALE LA PENA CORRER
EL RIESGO
Los Adventistas del Séptimo Día han estado durante mucho tiempo en contra del consumo de alcohol en cualquier cantidad, mientras que algunos expertos en salud han abogado por una pequeña cantidad de vino para obtener beneficios para la salud.
En el Informe de Asesoramiento del Cirujano General de los Estados Unidos del 2025, el entonces Cirujano General de los Estados Unidos Vivek H. Murthy pidió a las empresas de bebidas alcohólicas que incluyan una etiqueta que alerte a los consumidores sobre los riesgos de beber. El aviso destacó el consumo de alcohol como una de las principales causas prevenibles de cáncer en los EE. UU. El informe también señaló que mueren más personas por cáncer relacionado con el alcohol que por muertes en el tráfico asociadas con el alcohol.
También citó que “el 17 por ciento de las 20,000 muertes anuales por cáncer, relacionadas con el alcohol en los EE. UU., ocurren en niveles dentro de los límites recomendados por [U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans]”.
CONTINÚE
ORANDO
con la familia de la Columbia Union Conference por todo lo relacionado con la evangelización. Únase al evento de oración mensual en línea el 5 de marzo y el 2 de abril al mediodía. Visite las páginas de Facebook y YouTube del Visitor para ver la transmisión en vivo o una grabación.
‘COMO
NUNCA ANTES’
A través de todo el año, las iglesias y escuelas de la Columbia Union Conference y la North American Division estarán preparando y organizando sus eventos de proclamación del Pentecostés 2025.
“Dios está trabajando en nuestras iglesias de la Columbia Union Conference quizás como nunca antes”, dice José D. Espósito, asistente del presidente para Evangelismo en la Columbia Union. “Ya tenemos 841 centros de predicación registrados entre escuelas e iglesias”.
Algunas de las iglesias o escuelas participantes organizarán múltiples campañas evangelísticas durante el año, lo que dará como resultado un total de 2,025 semanas de evangelismo del Pentecostés en el 2025, informa Espósito.
“Sería bueno que dedicásemos una hora de meditación cada día para repasar la vida de Cristo desde el pesebre hasta el Calvario. ... Al contemplar así sus enseñanzas y sus sufrimientos, y el sacrificio infinito que hizo para la salvación de la familia humana, podemos fortalecer nuestra fe, vivificar nuestro amor, compenetrarnos más profundamente del espíritu que sostuvo a nuestro Salvador”.
—Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 374
CREANDO RECUERDOS MUSICALES
En febrero, los estudiantes de muchas de las academias de la Columbia Union Conference (y de otras partes) se reunieron en Takoma Park, Maryland, para el Festival de Música de Washington Adventist University. Los estudiantes no solo perfeccionaron sus habilidades en talleres, sesiones de práctica conjunta y presentaciones, sino que muchos también recibieron becas para la universidad. Visite columbiaunionvisitor.com para ver sus presentaciones y fotografías.
UN BUEN COMIENZO PARA EL 2025
La iglesia Shalom Hispanic de la Pennsylvania Conference en Reading celebró el primer sábado del nuevo año de la mejor manera posible: con un bautismo.
Mientras estudiábamos sobre el bautismo en el pequeño grupo semanal de la familia Vázquez, una de las integrantes se sintió convencida para bautizarse. Sus dos hermanas siguieron su ejemplo y, en enero, Janel, Johanna y Juliani Sánchez (en la foto con pastor Elias Saud) se unieron oficialmente a la iglesia.—Tamyra Horst
Para más historias en español, visite columbiaunionvisitor.com/noticias.
TRES MIL INICIATIVAS DE PROCLAMACIÓN
Statement of Policy—Nondiscrimination in Adventist Schools
The Seventh-day Adventist Church, in all of its church-operated schools, admits students of any race to all privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools and makes no discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, handicap, ethnic background or national origin in the administration of education policies, applications for admission, scholarship or loan programs and extracurricular programs.
The governing body of the Church has ruled officially, and in practice abides by, the following policies: 1.) Equal employment opportunities shall be afforded, with no discrimination in recruitment or hiring against any employee or application because of race, color, ethnic background, country of origin, age or sex except where age or sex is a bona fide occupational qualification. 2.) Preferential hiring shall be practiced only on the basis of freely chosen adherence to Adventist tenets essential to the operation of an Adventist institution. 3.) Compensation and benefits will be administered without regard to race, color, ethnic background, country of origin, creed, age or sex except where age or sex is a bona fide occupational qualification. 4.) Decisions for the promotion of employees will be based upon the qualifications of an individual as related to the requirements of the position for which he or she is being considered. 5.) Inasmuch as the personal life and professional identity of an individual are inseparable, all employees are expected to conform to the standards of conduct that are in harmony with Seventh-day Adventist practices.
Allegheny East—Baltimore Adventist Academy, Calvary Seventh-day Adventist School, Dupont Park Adventist Junior Academy, Ephesus Adventist Junior Academy, George E. Peters Adventist School, Hillside Seventh-day Adventist School, Pine Forge Academy, Sharon Temple Adventist School, Trinity Temple Academy, Wilbert F. Mays Adventist School
Allegheny West—Columbus Adventist Academy, Ramah Junior Academy
Chesapeake—Atholton Adventist Academy, Baltimore-White Marsh Adventist School, Dover First Christian School, Frederick Adventist Academy, Friendship Adventist School, Highland View Academy, Mount Aetna Adventist School, Rocky Knoll School, Spencerville Adventist Academy, Wilmington Jr. Academy
Mountain View—Greenbrier Valley Academy, Highland Adventist School, Parkersburg Academy, Summersville Adventist School
New Jersey—Lake Nelson Adventist Academy, Meadow View Junior Academy, Tranquility Adventist School, Vine Haven Adventist School, Waldwick Adventist School
Ohio—Clifton Christian Academy, Eastwood Adventist Junior Academy, Mansfield Adventist School, Mayfair Christian School, Mount Vernon Adventist School, Northern Ohio Adventist Academy, Piqua Adventist School, Spring Valley Academy, Toledo Jr. Academy, Worthington Adventist Academy, Zanesville Adventist School
Pennsylvania—Blue Mountain Academy, Blue Mountain Adventist Elementary, Harrisburg Adventist School, Huntingdon Valley Christian Academy, Mountain View Christian School, Pocono Adventist Christian School, Reading Adventist Junior Academy, Whitehall Christian School, Wyoming Valley Adventist School, York Adventist Christian School
Potomac—Beltsville Adventist School, C. F. Richards Christian School, Desmond T. Doss Christian Academy, Manassas Adventist Preparatory School, Olney Adventist Preparatory School, Richmond Academy of Seventh-day Adventists, Roanoke Adventist Prepatory School, Shenandoah Valley Academy, Shenandoah Valley Adventist Elementary, Stanley Adventist School, Takoma Academy, Takoma Academy Preparatory School, Tappahannock Junior Academy, Tidewater Adventist Academy, Tree of Life Christian Preparatory School, Vienna Adventist Academy
Open
the doors
How Holiday Celebrations Bring People to Christ
SBy Amanda Blake
eventh-day Adventists are celebrating holidays—specifically Easter and Christmas—more than ever before, and several pastors within the Columbia Union Conference say these special days create an ideal time to offer hope and the story of Jesus to the community. So, how are churches taking the focus off of the bunny and jolly old man to share God’s love?
Did Early Adventists Celebrate Easter?
Michael Campbell, historian and director of North American Division’s Archives, Statistics, and Research, explains that Easter, unlike Christmas, does not hold a notable spot in Adventist history.
Following the Protestant ethos of the 19th century, the church’s pioneers avoided Easter due to its significance in the Catholic liturgical calendar. However, in the 20th century, as Easter gained a more public presence across the nation, its Catholic connotation weakened, and more Protestants began to observe it.
According to Campbell, Adventist Easter celebrations have become more common over the past 30 to 40 years, with passion plays (dramatizations of Jesus’ death and resurrection) gaining traction in the 1990s, especially on Adventist university campuses. He and several others note that, in recent years, an increasing number of Adventist churches have been organizing holiday programs—both for Easter and Christmas.
However, although Adventist Easter celebrations are on the rise, some Christians view the holiday as
Top: In the 1880s, Miss Affolter placed a Christmas tree in her kindergarten class in Battle Creek, Mich.
The Allegheny East Conference hosted a Christmas play at the We Care Center in December 1969.
As a child in Poland, Ilona Nalli had many cherished Easter traditions that she no longer experienced when introduced to Adventism as an adult in the United States.
Bottom: In 2014, members from Chesapeake Conference’s New Hope church participated in a play about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
entirely pagan. Many claim it started as a heathen fertility celebration, got its name from the Babylonian sex goddess, Ishtar, and thus should be avoided. Today, those alleged pagan connections may seem ancient, distant—but what about the Easter Bunny and the painted eggs, which were historically symbols of fertility? Are Adventists who celebrate Easter uplifting the wrong message?
In Campbell’s assessment, the argument that anyone who celebrates Easter consequently adopts paganism is “scanty.”
He says, “There’s fertility celebrations that you’ll find in a lot of different religions around the world, especially among pagan religions.” So, the argument is, “by celebrating the one, you’re somehow embracing some kind of pagan ideology. At best, that’s fallacious.”
Campbell similarly spoke about opposition to celebrating Christmas in his 2020 Adventist Review article and podcast episode, “Christmas In Our Adventist Past,” where he stated that early Adventists celebrated Christmas, and Adventist pioneers viewed the holiday as an opportunity to uplift Jesus.
In the 1962 book, Ellen G. White Statements Related to the Observance of Christmas and Holiday Gifts, many of her quotes cast light on the church’s general advice concerning Christmas: Focus on Jesus, give generously to the Lord’s work, and use the season to do good.
Family Traditions or Religious Obligation?
Ilona Nalli, who attends Chesapeake Conference’s Martinsburg (W.Va.) church, grew up viewing the holidays much differently than many Adventists in America. She was raised Catholic in Poland, where, she explains, Easter and Christmas are treated with high and equal importance. In fact, people celebrate both holidays over multiple days and sometimes go to church several times a day for different activities. Nalli shares that Polish culture, history and the Catholic church are deeply intertwined.
“As a child, I don’t think I understood which activities were our family traditions versus what was our religious obligation,” she says.
Nalli explains that the Polish keep a long list of Easter traditions. The one she finds most interesting is the “communal food prayer.”
She explains, “Everyone makes a small basket of food with bread, eggs—it’s Poland, so some meat— as well as spices like salt and pepper, and some horseradish, which is then used for the soup called barszcz. And a small lamb molded out of sugar.”
Families decorate their eggs, then take their baskets to church on Saturday, place them in front of the building, pray and, on Easter Sunday, they enjoy the food together.
When Nalli came to the United States to study, a group of young people drew her to the Adventist
faith and into a deep relationship with Jesus. During her conversion experience, Nalli was surprised to learn that Adventists didn’t regularly hold special services on Easter and Christmas.
Today, Nalli uses the Easter and Christmas seasons to reflect on that relationship. She views holiday traditions far differently now than she did as a child and is glad the church is starting to emphasize holidays more.
“When it comes to tradition, I also now have a clear line between what our family traditions are and what the true meaning of Christmas and Easter is,” she explains. “So mainly, I avoid giving symbolic meaning to any activities that we do. So, if we do color some eggs for fun, that is all it is. It’s a fun activity that we can do as a family on a day that is not Easter. I want my daughter to grow up knowing the true meaning of Christmas and Easter.”
She concludes, “[Holiday programs] give people an opportunity to learn about God in different ways,” she says. “Not everyone is ready to come to church right away and listen to a sermon. I know I wasn’t.”
The Dover (Del.) First church’s Christmas and Easter programs draw many community members who typically wouldn’t attend Dover First.
The Manger to Calvary
It would be well to spend a thoughtful hour each day reviewing the life of Christ from the manger to Calvary. We should take it point by point and let the imagination vividly grasp each scene, especially the closing ones of His earthly life. By thus contemplating His teachings and sufferings, and the infinite sacrifice made by Him for the redemption of the race, we may strengthen our faith, quicken our love, and become more deeply imbued with the spirit which sustained our Saviour” (Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 373).
“How would it be … if people actually knew us, not just for the things that we believe and do and don’t do, but how we worship?”
Erwin Nanasi, Minister of Music, Spencerville Church
Holiday Programs Build Bridges
Pastor Erwin Nanasi, who holds a doctorate in Worship Studies, believes Adventist holiday programs help fulfill a need: to show the public that Adventist church members connect with God, not only in truth, but also in spirit. Adventists also want to bask in His presence, just as Mary did at Jesus’ feet. “Who is not going to benefit from a greater revelation of God’s grace and love and kindness?” he questions.
“How would it be … if people actually knew us, not just for the things that we believe and do and don’t do, but how we worship?” he asks.
Nanasi serves as minister of music at Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville church in Silver Spring, Md. In the spring of 2024, the church hosted its first Passion Week—with daily one-hour programs exploring the last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, starting the Sunday before Easter and culminating on Easter Sunday.
On the first day, between 200 and 300 people attended, and the number only continued to grow. “We didn’t need to tell people to invite others. They just did,” he says.
Nanasi believes holiday programs such as Passion Week—structured, imbued with creativity and story-focused—can reach people with the truth in ways other church programs cannot.
“We don’t use the time to teach people why we’re different; we allow them to find that out organically through the Passion Week,” he adds.
“People long for something that evokes a sense of beauty or evokes a sense of, maybe, comfort when they’re grieving or when they have sorrow,” he explains. “I think today, our opportunity through music and art and worship can be an intersection where the people that otherwise would not be interested in the truth … can reflect on the beauty of His holiness and be appealed to.”
‘You Can Feel it in the Music and People’
Music plays a powerful role in Potomac Conference’s Washington Spanish Bilingual church’s Easter program, according to Associate Pastor Will Johns. The church, also located in Silver Spring, Md., hosts a bilingual service on Easter Sunday, and for
the past three years, members and non-members have packed the sanctuary. Last year, 50 to 75 attended in person and 273 households viewed the event online.
“It’s just amazing how there’s something about Easter … that really connects people with the good news of Jesus—the resurrection and power,” Johns says. “You can just feel it in the music and the people that are there. They’re just fully into the celebration.”
Washington Spanish member Margie Thomas, who helps lead the Easter program, explains that the church also hosts a kids’ fair and reception after the service, allowing members and guests a chance to connect.
Thomas believes that any perceived connection between Easter and paganism, such as the Easter Bunny, in fact augments the church’s need to get involved: The service can give the community a different perspective on the holiday.
She also thinks the Easter program has strengthened the church’s relationship with their neighbors. “I do feel like it’s a perfect opportunity for us to … invite people into a space that doesn’t feel, for lack of a better word, threatening,” she says.
A Unique Opportunity to Connect
Holiday programs have also helped form connections between the community of New Market, Va., where Potomac Conference’s New Market church, Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) and Shenandoah Valley Elementary School reside. Approximately 1,500 guests attend the campus’ largest holiday event, Journey to Bethlehem, each Christmas season, where attendees walk through the “City of David” to witness the nativity story.
“The event was started in 2011 with the idea that stories bond people together. It bound us with each other and with those who experience the story with us,” explains Tammy White, SVA’s development assistant, with Reed Richardi, New Market’s lead pastor.
At Chesapeake Conference’s Dover (Del.) First church, Pastor Javier Scharon helps organize an interactive Walk Through Bethlehem experience. The event draws community members that he has never seen before. His church also holds a special Easter Sabbath service, and he says it’s during these two holiday seasons that he sees the most people in attendance.
Scharon personally believes that “celebrating the holidays, whether it be Christmas or Easter, if done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, will definitely be an experience of spiritual renewal, spiritual strengthening. But if you’re going to celebrate it the way that the world celebrates it, not under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then it definitely won’t be.”
He adds, “I think that across the entire United States, culturally, the community will always be
more open and more receptive to the Word of God during holiday seasons.”
Pastor Alberto Balio, director of Pennsylvania Conference’s Hispanic Ministries Department, echoes Scharon, adding that many churches, specifically Hispanic ones, often dedicate themselves to public evangelism during the Easter season, usually by organizing campaigns centered on the story of the cross.
He describes holidays as unique opportunities for Adventists to connect with a wide variety of individuals. Around Easter time, those who have begun studying with the church are even more willing to get involved, and those who don’t regularly go to church are more likely to attend, especially if invited by a friend.
Culture Impacts Celebration
Emeraude Victorin, a member of Allegheny East Conference’s Emmanuel-Brinklow church in Ashton, Md., especially loves Christmas, although she didn’t always celebrate it.
Victorin, a Haitian American, grew up in a religiously conservative atmosphere, which is common for Haitian Adventist households, she explains.
“We were always told growing up that we don’t know when Jesus was born,” she says. “We don’t know the date when he died and resurrected, so there’s no need to celebrate the same days that the world celebrates.”
Nevertheless, young Victorin felt drawn to Christmas, specifically holiday lights and decorations. Her mom, however, believed that certain objects, like Christmas trees, weren’t of God.
As a young adult, Victorin began attending Emmanuel-Brinklow, which celebrated Easter and Christmas with special services. Soon after, she studied at Andrews University (Mich.) and witnessed its Easter Passion Play.
Referencing Emmanuel-Brinklow’s holiday activities, she says, “It feels as if I’m in the right place to get the opportunity to celebrate.” V
Top: Last year, Potomac Conference’s Washington Spanish Bilingual church members welcomed the community with an Easter program, followed by games and homemade pupusas.
Approximately 1,500 guests attend Journey to Bethlehem in New Market, Va., every Christmas season.
During its first celebration of Passion Week, Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville church hosted daily programs that explored the last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
Bottom: In 2023, Ohio Conference’s Kettering church offered an Easter interactive experience for the entire family.
Miraculous Revival Through Prayer and Fasting
The Germantown church in Philadelphia recently united in prayer, fasting and worship with an initiative called “Ignite: 31 Days of Revival.” More than 115 participants joined the 6 a.m. daily prayer call, more than 80 first-time guests attended in-person and 14 individuals were baptized.
Germantown hosted three services each week, featuring a variety of guest speakers and musical artists. To create a welcoming atmosphere at each service, Corey Johnson, Germantown pastor, partnered with Germantown’s Connect Team, including greeters, ushers and security as well as
Annie Simmons, prayer coordinator at the Germantown church, leads the congregation in prayer, alongside Pastor Corey Johnson.
the hospitality, special events, media, praise and worship, and prayer teams. Online hosts Tenita Green and John Duke Hall Jr., hosted the broadcasts, expanding Germantown’s reach and engaging a broad virtual audience. The media team, directed by Andre Benson, provided a streaming experience that allowed online viewers to connect with the revival’s powerful messages. “Seeing the church come alive in prayer and worship was inspiring,” Benson shares. “Every service felt like a reminder of God’s transformative power.”
The Ignite series was comprised of several elements to foster connection and discipleship. A downloadable 31-day devotional and a comprehensive fasting guide supported participants in their personal spiritual journeys, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Merchandise, such as T-shirts bearing the revival’s theme scripture, Jeremiah 20:9, symbolized the movement’s lasting impact. The revival also included a “Miracle Night,” with highlighting testimonies of answered prayers, personal breakthroughs and baptisms.
Johnson remarks, “This revival was an extraordinary time for our church family. It was a reminder of the fire God places in our hearts to serve and transform our world.”
Hampton Brings Joy to Sick and Shut-In Members
The New Life church in Hampton, Va., jumpstarted their Outreach Ministries by reaching out to its sick and shut-in members with a warm meal and fellowship.
Volunteers Lawrence and Gladys Suggs, and Charles and Linda Ridley prepared and delivered the meals. The surprise deliveries were met with smiles, tears of gratitude and a sense of connection that transcended physical distance.
“Our church is a family, and family means being there for one another, especially during challenging times,” says Charles. “We live up to our motto: ‘New Life Church—Where Hope Grows and Love Shows.’”
This small act of kindness has inspired the church to find more creative ways to serve one another this year.
Deacons Gladys Suggs and Linda Ridley and elder Lawrence Suggs visit fellow New Life church member and deacon John Drummond.
Remnant Church Celebrates 15th Anniversary
The Remnant church in Burtonsville, Md., recently celebrated its 15th anniversary. Founded in 2009 by a small group of believers, the church has grown into a thriving congregation of 168 members. The theme, “Celebrating God’s Leading,” reflected its inspiring journey of faith and ministry.
The weekend began with Friday vespers led by Gary Wimbish, Allegheny East Conference’s vice president for administration. On Sabbath, more than 600 worshippers gathered in person, and 1,000 joined online to hear a sermon by Marcellus T. Robinson, president of the Columbia Union Conference. “It was a beautiful worship experience, where souls were refreshed, spirits uplifted and God’s presence [was] deeply felt,” shares Michael Pedrin, associate pastor of Remnant.
The church has been intentional about enhancing the worship experience. As a result, they invested money to upgrade the audio and lighting systems, including an LED wall. This renovation was put to
Emmanuel
Opens
The Remnant church choir presents a concert celebrating the church’s 15th anniversary.
good use, as the anniversary celebration concluded with a concert, glorifying God’s faithfulness.
Led by Senior Pastor Sujjan John and his team, the church is committed to continue exalting God and spreading the three angels’ messages.
New Ministry and Worship Facility
The Emmanuel Worship Center (EWC) in Alexandria, Va., under the leadership of D. Robert Kennedy, recently completed the renovation of a new ministry and worship facility on its campus. To celebrate, they hosted a ribbon cutting and community health day titled, “Your Health and You.” Trevor
Kinlock, Allegheny East Conference president, preached a message, reminding the congregation to hold together and stay faithful in ministry in preparation for the imminent return of Christ.
They also held educational discussions on health, musical presentations, a food giveaway, blood pressure and sugar screenings, and more.
EWC will use the new space for worship services and community gatherings. They are already known throughout the city for their food distribution program that provides food security to many of the residents in the community. Additionally, they are preparing the space to provide mental health services. “Though Dr. Kennedy retired at the end of 2024, he left the congregation with a bold imprint of his visionary leadership and community impact,” says Kinlock.
The Kinlock family—Kayla, Trevor, Ava and Carleen—join Robert and June Kennedy, the recently retired pastoral couple, at Emmanuel Worship Center’s grand opening.
Beacon of Hope Hosts Children’s Day
Beacon of Hope church members in Columbus, Ohio, believe perseverance and hard work pays off. From a small church worshipping in a basement to an ever-growing, vibrant bunch in their own space, the group now boasts an active Children’s Ministries Department.
The church has their own children’s choir, which recently graced the stage on their very first Children’s Day.
The department is headed by innovative and passionate leaders who have kept the church and those in the diaspora on the edge of their seats, anticipating more.
Led entirely by the youth of Beacon of Hope, the day was a spectacle with a march to the altar to the theme song “I Know Who I Am” to the very end of the service. All eyes were glued to the children while they displayed their love for Jesus, say attendees.
The youth of Beacon of Hope lead out Children’s Day, alongside Pastor Charles Osborne and First Lady Quetah Osborne.
Beacon of Hope is confident in their church’s future, knowing that the youth can serve in any capacity. They hope to inspire other churches and Children’s Ministries programs to empower more youth for Christ.
Psalm 127:3–5 says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them” (NIV).
Beacon of Hope leaders express the desire to continue to build children up in Christ so that God’s work will progress in the years to come. The future of the church depends on young minds and their passion to serve God.
Young Beacon of Hope members present an uplifting message during the church service.
How One Gesture Changed a Life
In the fall of 2024, Glenn Allen, pastor of the Three Angels Message church in Danville, Va., and his wife, Natalie, walked into a local IHOP, unaware that an ordinary breakfast would spark an extraordinary spiritual journey. What Allen calls “a rare act of kindness” is a powerful reminder of how God works through the smallest gestures.
As the couple approached the restaurant, a young woman named Jessica Fountain held the door open for them. Moved by her simple act of courtesy, Allen felt the Holy Spirit prompting him to connect with her. Although Fountain declined his spontaneous invitation to join them at church, Allen gave her his business card, offering a listening ear and prayer whenever she might need it.
A week later, Fountain reached out, inquiring about the church’s schedule. When she learned that the congregation met on Saturdays, she was eager to attend. Allen suggested a Bible study first, and soon they met in Fountain’s kitchen. What started as a private study quickly grew into a family gathering, as Fountain’s mother joined. The session was filled with joy and discovery, and both Fountain and her mother committed to attend church the following Sabbath.
That Sabbath, Fountain, her mother, and even Fountain’s bishop joined the service. Allen shared their story with his congregation, highlighting how God’s timing had orchestrated this beautiful moment. Fountain’s thirst for truth only grew from there—she attended every night of the church’s evangelistic series, completed Bible studies in record time and embraced the teachings of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, including the Sabbath truth.
On the final night of the series, Fountain made a life-changing decision. She chose to publicly declare her faith in Christ by being baptized, marking the culmination of a journey that had begun with a simple act of kindness at an IHOP.
“Fountain’s story is more than just about a conversion,” says Allen. “It’s a reminder that God often works through the smallest moments to accomplish His great purposes. Her transformation highlights the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit’s promptings and seizing the opportunities to connect with others.”
Allen continues, “A rare act of kindness is a testimony to the power of compassion and divine timing. What began with Jessica holding open a door became an eternal door opened to a new life in Christ.”
Glenn Allen, pastor of the Three Angels Message church, stands proudly with newly baptized member Jessica Fountain.
An ordinary breakfast at an IHOP leads to a spiritual journey in the life of Jessica Fountain.
photos
His Living Presence in Us
What Jesus did to prepare His disciples for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost is what He wants to do for us. He took a confused, disorganized band of followers, molded them into a unified movement and commissioned them to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth.
How did He do this? The answer is clearly stated in the opening chapter of the Book of Acts. Luke tells us that He first wanted them to fully understand that He was the leader of the movement: “Giving instructions through the Holy Spirit … He presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs” (Acts 1:2–3, NSRV). In the days that followed the resurrection, before His ascension, Jesus lived and taught among the disciples so they would be assured that He was the same Lord who had called them into discipleship, ministered among them, and was crucified and raised back to life for them. But He wanted them to know something much more than this. He wanted them to know that He would continue to be with them through the Holy Spirit. This was not a new thought they were hearing from Jesus for the first time. Indeed, Jesus taught them about the Holy Spirit long before the crucifixion and, most poignantly, the night before He was crucified, according to John chapters 14 and 15, and elsewhere in the gospels. But hearing it from Jesus now, after His resurrection, gave new meaning and urgency to His teaching.
They had to know this; they had to be certain that after He ascended, He would return and be with them through the Holy Spirit, living and moving among them as He had been with them for the previous three-and-a-half years. They needed to know they would not be left alone to do what is humanly impossible. Telling it to the world could not be done without Him in them.
That’s what we need to know. Christ is alive! He is with us. The Holy Spirit is not some estranged, elusive power, experienced only by ancient Bible characters, but is the glorified Christ who dwells in us, as the apostle Paul makes so clear in many of his epistles. So, the remarkable “Acts,” not just of the apostles, are available to us! Let us pray earnestly for the outpouring of His Spirit on us and be willing to be used by Him as instruments of His blessing to others.
Chesapeake ACS Delivers Aid to Carolinas
The Chesapeake Conference Adventist Community Services (ACS) recently delivered a truckload of much-needed supplies to North Carolina to support survivors of Hurricane Helene. This relief effort was made possible through the generosity of church members across the Chesapeake Conference who responded to the call for donations with overwhelming support.
Jerry Lutz President
The shipment included three pallets of bottled water, weighing approximately three tons, as well as a pallet of diapers and a mixed pallet containing hygiene items, wipes and cleaning supplies.
While media coverage has moved on, the challenges facing the affected communities remain significant. Chesapeake Conference ACS staff remain committed to assisting those impacted by disasters and encourages continued support for relief efforts.
“Thank you to the Chesapeake Conference family for your support of your sister conference in the Carolinas,” says Shawn Paris, Chesapeake Conference ACS director. “The need is great, and we must not forget them.”
Shawn Paris (center), Chesapeake Conference ACS director, helps unload donated supplies for Hurricane Helene survivors.
Members Gather to Focus on Church Planting
Chesapeake Conference recently hosted two “Seeds” church planting conferences, bringing together pastors, elders, ministry leaders and church members for inspiration, training and reflection on the importance of planting new Seventh-day Adventist congregations in unentered areas.
The Spanish language conference, held at the Annapolis (Md.) Spanish church, highlighted the dynamic growth of Hispanic Ministries within the Chesapeake Conference. The gathering celebrated the 40th anniversary of the first Hispanic church in the territory—Baltimore Spanish church—established in 1984. Although the second Hispanic church was not planted until 2001, the past two decades have seen remarkable expansion, with 40 Hispanic congregations now actively worshipping and serving throughout the conference.
“We thank God for the growth of our Hispanic congregations,” says Orlando Rosales, Chesapeake Conference Hispanic Ministries director. “With His help, we will continue to expand His kingdom and reach more communities.”
The English “Seeds” conference, held at the Ellicott City church, featured a series of
Church members share ideas as they reflect on the presentations during a “Seeds” conference.
presentations by leading Adventist voices in evangelism and church planting, including Pavel Goia, editor of the Ministry magazine, and Tim Madding, director of the North American Division Evangelism Institute. Both “Seeds” conferences were held as part of Chesapeake Conference’s “35 x 25” goal of planting 35 new churches by the end of 2025. Since the project’s launch in 2019, 26 churches have been planted so far toward that goal.
Washington Ghanaian Gives 100 Bikes to Kids
The Washington Ghanaian church in Columbia, Md., recently hosted a free bicycle giveaway for approximately 100 community children and their families. The initiative aimed to promote physical activity among children, while providing a practical mode of transportation to support their daily needs.
The event was made possible through generous donations from community partners and the dedication of church volunteers. A total of 100 bicycles
were collected, carefully inspected for safety and refurbished, as needed, to ensure they were ready for use. Children eagerly selected their bicycles with the help of volunteers, who made adjustments to ensure each bike was safe and properly fitted.
The excitement was evident as children took home their new bicycles, and parents expressed deep gratitude for the initiative. One father shares, “This bicycle means so much to my child. Thank you for your kindness and generosity!”
The Washington Ghanaian church leaders extend heartfelt thanks to its donors, community partners and volunteers, whose contributions made this event a success. The church remains committed to outreach efforts and is already planning similar projects to serve its community in meaningful ways.—Kwabena Opoku Boakye, Washington Ghanaian Church Member
Washington Ghanaian church member Paul Otoo works to ensure children receive ready-to-ride bikes.
Conference Sends Out Missionaries to Honduras
“Rule number one for a missionary is to be flexible; rule number two is to be flexible; and rule number three is to be flexible.” Preston Monterrey, pastor of the Beckley and Valley View churches in West Virginia, shared these words during the pretrip meeting to La Ceiba, Honduras, that served as a guiding principle during the mission trip.
Mountain View Conference’s motto, “Tell Somebody About Jesus,” drives everything the conference does. This mission was the foundation of their efforts in La Ceiba, where they shared the gospel and served the community. Over five days, they conducted free health clinics in various locations, partnering with local doctors to provide care and refer patients with chronic conditions for follow-up treatment. They also assisted in constructing a church and worked alongside 43 local churches to hold nightly evangelistic meetings at eight different sites.
The trip, however, was not without its challenges. Hurricane Sara hit Honduras weeks before their arrival, causing severe flooding and destroying a critical bridge in La Ceiba. The resulting traffic forced the cancelation of one preaching site. Persistent, unseasonal rain added to the difficulties, making transportation nearly impossible the first four days. On Sabbath afternoon, only one site could open, and midway through the sermon, the power went out. Undeterred, Tony Garcia, pastor of the Williamson and Logan churches, continued preaching as people illuminated the platform with flashlights.
Sunday night brought further trials. Tim Bailey, conference president, developed a fever before he preached, but by God’s grace, was no longer sick after delivering his message. That same evening, Bill Hunt, a member of the Boulevard church, experienced two tire blowouts on a dark, rain-soaked road while traveling to his meeting. At another site, Heroes Sical, pastor of the Lewisburg, Lewisburg Spanish, Marlinton and Rainelle churches, made an appeal that was drowned out by heavy rain pounding on the roof. Later, sickness temporarily sidelined Hunt and Eddie Reyes, pastor of the Franklin, Moorefield, Moorefield Spanish and Romney churches, but God provided other speakers to fill in, as needed. These challenges highlighted the spiritual battle they faced, prompting
them to intensify their prayers, both individually and collectively.
Despite the obstacles, God’s power was evident. Maria, a woman suffering from persistent ear pain, prayed for relief early one morning. Later that day, a neighbor invited her to the clinic, where she received treatment. That evening, she attended a preaching site and remains connected to the church. Just like Maria, many others received help and saw Jesus in action. By the end of the trip, 94 individuals were baptized, and many more committed to follow Christ.
This experience underscored the need for flexibility, faith and perseverance, say volunteers. With prayer and trust in God, challenges transformed into opportunities for His glory.
—Walter Cardenas, Assistant to
the President
Pastor Heroes Sical prays with meeting attendees.
Local church members in Honduras help build a church.
Juniors Become Chefs at Buckhannon
Church and community members recently enjoyed “Let’s Become Junior Chefs,” a hands-on cooking class experience. The three-hour class, held across five Sunday afternoons, was sponsored by the Children’s Ministries Department from the Buckhannon (W.Va.) church. Darlene Parker, the Children’s Ministries leader; Bonnie Cutright, her assistant; and volunteers Melonie Gerath, Judy Riley, Terry McCray and Buckhannon Pastor Roger Curtis and his family worked together to help kids become creative in the kitchen.
At the beginning of class, Gerath shared a PowerPoint on the Eight Principles of Health,
Community visitor Cooper Brown displays a recipe he made.
followed by Parker’s presentation on the various tools used in the kitchen and how to safely use them. The kids learned how to measure dry and wet ingredients, use a spatula, crack an egg, mix with a spoon and mixer, and use a knife safely. Each afternoon, they made one or two edible crafts using their kitchen tools. They also learned how to make nutritious breakfast foods, whole wheat bread, their own pizza from scratch, be creative with fruits and vegetables, and craft delicious “munchin lunches” and “dynamite dinner” meals. Prior to the last class, parents were invited to taste what the children had prepared.
As a follow-up, the group held the Junior Chef’s Christmas Cookie Bake-Off. Twenty children and a few parents enjoyed a festive, fun-filled afternoon. Before departure, leaders distributed children’s cookbooks, and Curtis prayed for the families.
One parent later wrote, “Thank you for the cooking classes. This was the first thing my son has been left at because of his age. Normally I have to stay with him. So being able to have a little independence in a safe environment is something he needs to thrive. … Cooper said he enjoyed getting to do prayers.”
Parsons Church Hosts LEGO® Club Challenge
LEGO® club challenges require more than speed! In 60 minutes, young LEGO enthusiasts must build original vehicle designs, race a track, travel the farthest and ensure the design’s pieces stay intact.
Late last year, approximately 12 children, comprised of Parsons church members and community members, accepted the challenge. Parents and staff could hear the dull roar of shifting LEGO pieces and feel the excitement as the hunt for wheels, plates and bricks began. Vehicles could be tested prior to the races for design speed, durability and length of travel.
Minutes ticked away, and as the pre-race warning was given, dismayed voices pleaded for extra design time. Final adjustments, along with last test runs, squeezed into the final moments before the race
Participants bond while building LEGO creations.
entries call began. Eight designs competed in the bracket race. The heat pairings were arranged on the board as excited contestants lined up to watch the results. Quickly, the heat winners tallied on the board as eight narrowed to four, and four to two, and finally the winning car was announced. The LEGO challenge is now a part of Parsons’ church history. —Sarah Abell, Church Member
Our Greatest Need
Pentecost was one of the most extraordinary experiences of the apostolic church, as described in Acts 2:2–3, when the disciples received the power of the Holy Spirit. This event fulfilled Jesus’ promise, filling them with courage, joy and the ability to speak languages unknown to them as preachers, impacting the crowds who heard them.
The reaction of people was mixed: some were amazed, while others thought the disciples were drunk. However, Peter stood up boldly, preaching repentance, and as a result, 3,000 were baptized, joining the gospel preaching movement (Acts 2:42–43).
Today, that same promise is still valid according to the needs of the 21st century. God still longs for us to live our personal experiences of Pentecost, but to do so, we must be “in one accord” with God and one another. According to Acts 1:8, we are called to be witnesses, carrying the message of salvation from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.
In the New Jersey Conference, we are fervently praying to live that experience in 2025, believing it will be a significant step in the fulfillment of the prophecy of Matthew 24:14: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (KJV).
This call is not just for some; it is for all. You, too, are invited to seek and experience the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Are you ready to accept this divine invitation and be part of the fulfillment of this eternal promise?
Conference Holds First Hispanic Prayer Convention
New Jersey Conference’s First Hispanic Prayer Convention titled, “A Shelter: Always Open,” recently brought together 300 attendees from various Hispanic churches, creating a profound moment of spiritual renewal and unity.
This significant event featured distinguished speakers, including Andrés Dinamarca, youth leader of the Chilean Union; Felix Cortes, professor at Andrews University (Mich.); and Abner de Los Santos, a vice president at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Their impactful messages encouraged attendees to embrace the greatness and beauty of prayer as a central part of their spiritual lives.
Through deep reflections on intercessory prayer, the role of the Holy Spirit and powerful testimonies of answered prayers, participants experienced a spiritual revival, leaders say. The event also strengthened connections among churches, uniting the Hispanic Adventist community.
Organizers say this historic convention reignited the faith of its participants and inspired the vision
of establishing an annual gathering focused on the transformative and unifying power of prayer.—Daniel Cabezas, Hispanic Prayer Coordinator
Attendees pray during the conference’s first Hispanic Prayer Convention.
Carlos J. Torres Family and Personal Ministries Director
90 Attend Youth Ministries Coordinators’ Retreat
New Jersey Conference’s Youth Department recently held a coordinators’ retreat that brought together more than 90 attendees, ranging from new to seasoned coordinators. The transformative weekend was designed to provide tailored support and training, with classes split into two groups, depending on one’s experience.
New coordinators gained foundational skills and insights into effective leadership and personal finance, while seasoned coordinators had opportunities to deepen their knowledge on audio/media, PowerPoint presentations and social media.
Beyond the training sessions, the retreat offered time for praise and worship, fellowship and an appreciation dinner, all while strengthening bonds among youth leaders. Leaders say the weekend was marked by a shared sense of purpose, as participants left feeling more equipped, inspired and united in their mission to serve and empower
Attendees take notes as they listen to a presentation at the Youth Coordinators’ Retreat.
the youth in their respective ministries.—Cinthia Portanova, Children’s Ministries Director and Youth Ministries Administrative Assistant
Conference Leaders Unite for Pastors’ In-Service
The recent New Jersey Conference Pastors’ In-Service meeting offered a meaningful time of learning, fellowship and spiritual growth. Jonathan
Park, Southeastern California Conference president, led a workshop on “Conflict Transformation,” highlighting the importance of addressing issues without personal attacks. Park noted, “In unmanaged conflict, people confront each other, but in well-managed conflict, issues are confronted.”
One attendee shares, “Separating people from problems was so helpful.”
Michael Campbell, director of North American Division’s Archives, Statistics, and Research, spoke on addressing Seventh-day Adventist history and heresies, encouraging pastors to focus on leading members to a deeper relationship with Jesus. “Our mission is not to make everyone agree with us but to guide them to meet Christ personally,” he said.
The gathering fostered unity and strengthened the pastors’ shared commitment to ministry through worship, fellowship and continued learning.
New Jersey Conference’s pastoral team is comprised of dedicated Christians ready to love, support and serve their territory and beyond.
Executive Committee Appoints New Treasurer
The Ohio Conference Executive Committee voted to appoint Andrew Sutton as the new conference treasurer. The position became vacant after Roy Simpson, the former treasurer, accepted a call to serve as the undertreasurer of the Mid-America Union Conference.
Sutton is no stranger to the Ohio Conference. He first joined the conference April 1, 1999, as a business intern. Three months later, the conference promoted him to associate treasurer, a role Sutton held from July 1999 until 2006. On Sept. 1, 2006, the conference appointed Sutton as treasurer, serving faithfully until 2010, when he stepped down to spend more time with his young children. During this period, Sutton continued to work within the Treasury Department, focusing on non-operating accounting as an associate treasurer.
Sutton’s dedication to the mission is unwavering. He has always enjoyed serving God in the Treasury Department, particularly in helping staff and local church treasurers understand the conference’s financial operations. Reflecting on his appointment, Sutton shares, “God has called us to finish the work, bringing as many as we can to the feet of Jesus. My prayer is that we do our part here in Ohio to support this calling so that soon we may go home to be with the Lord forever.” His commitment to this mission is a source of inspiration and reassurance for the Ohio Conference.
A native of Newark, Ohio, Sutton has deep roots in the Seventh-day Adventist community. He attended Mount Vernon Academy and spent many summers at Camp Mohaven. He has been married for 41 years to his wife, Margaret, and they have three children—Valerie, Lindsay and Christopher—and three grandchildren.
As Sutton steps into this new role, the Ohio Conference looks forward to his continued leadership and dedication to the mission of the conference.
New Youth Movement Inspires Connection, Faith
The Ohio Conference recently launched an exciting new youth movement in Cleveland, Ohio, called Creating Oneness Reflecting Eternity (C.O.R.E.). This movement was created by a group of young people seeking more: more praise for God, more time spent with Him, more friendships and more fellowship. This movement aims to unite young adults, ages 16 to 35, across Cleveland and the surrounding area.
Their first gathering was a success, with more than 30 in attendance. A praise team led the attendees into worship, followed by an inspiring sermon from Alina Simmons, a theology student from Andrews University (Mich.). She spoke on the importance of being part of a Christ-centered community where individuals can support and uplift one another—the essence of C.O.R.E.
The event concluded with a focus on fellowship, allowing young adults from various churches to connect and build relationships. Sharing a meal together provided a wonderful opportunity for
deeper conversation and connection. This event was truly a blessing, and organizers believe this ministry will continue to bless the Cleveland area in the
A group of young people have a discussion during the C.O.R.E. event.
Churches Combine Efforts in the Greater Toledo Area
The recent Hope for Today city-wide evangelistic campaign, held at Owens Community College, was a historic moment of unity, community service and spiritual revival in the Greater Toledo Area.
It was a collaboration of five local churches in the city’s metro area, including Bowling Green, Toledo First, Swanton, Northwood and Parkwood.
While the initiative was grassroots-led, the Ohio Conference, the Allegheny West Conference and the Columbia Union Conference assisted with sponsorship via their presence, prayers, finances and resources.
children each night into a warm and fun environment. The facilitators taught Bible stories, played games and helped with crafts. The robust children’s program, called the Hope Zone, motivated parents to attend the nightly meetings.
Understanding the practical needs in the community, Hope for Today offered tangible support for families by distributing groceries, diapers, clothes, laundry supplies and dinner each evening. These items met essential needs and showed to the community the church’s commitment to caring for them on multiple levels. Families were deeply grateful, and many expressed that this outreach significantly impacted their lives.
One attendee says, “I recently took custody of an infant and am struggling financially. Not only were the diapers a blessing, but I also won a gift card!”
In preparing for Hope for Today, the churches engaged in multiple five-day prayer sessions seeking God’s guidance and blessing for the outreach. Additionally, the pastors of the local churches hosted an evangelism boot camp, training members on engaging with the community, sharing their faith effectively and meeting people where they are.
A joint rally gathered everyone before the event started, strengthening the spirit of unity and purpose. During the rally, the keynote speaker, Bob Cundiff, president of the Ohio Conference, reminded the church members that their spiritual efforts were worthwhile.
The bonds formed among the five churches have only strengthened since Hope for Today concluded. The churches continue to grow as new members join them, and existing members remain inspired to stay connected and involved.
As a result of the event, 87 individuals joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church through baptism and profession of faith. These new additions were the culmination of the Holy Spirit working through compassion initiatives, meaningful conversations, one-on-one Bible studies and powerful messages by the campaign speaker, Pastor Ryan Day of 3ABN. Many of these individuals expressed that the sense of community and compassion drew them in and helped them take this step.
In addition to the numerous adults who attended Hope for Today, the event welcomed 40 to 100
John Eccles, pastor of the Bowling Green and Swanton churches, mentioned that “the program gave our church momentum and direction as we prepared for Pentecost 2025.”
In post-assessment, Steven Valles, Parkwood church pastor, notes, “Hope for Today was more than an event; it was the beginning of a movement. Our churches are excited to continue building on this momentum, knowing that when we come together, we can make an incredible impact on our community and beyond.”—Kojo Twumasi, Toledo First Church and Northwood Church Pastor
Ohio is published in the Visitor by the Ohio Conference n 1251 E. Dorothy Lane, Dayton, OH 45419 Phone: (937) 741-0236 n ohioadventist.org n President, Bob Cundiff n Editor, Francis Tuffour
Oswaldo Magaña (with raised hand), Ohio Conference executive secretary, baptizes a new member.
Rediscover the Sabbath
This editorial was published in the Pennsylvania Conference devotional, Back to the Altar. To purchase a copy, visit paconference.org/devotional-book.
My first Sabbath experience at the Morris Park Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bronx, N.Y., impacted my life for eternity. Listening to the sermon, I knew I had found the right church. My journey to understanding the Sabbath was gradual, but as I slowly grasped its significance, the Sabbath became a solemn and holy experience.
Thursday evenings were now spent preparing for the arrival of the holy Sabbath day. My home was meticulously cleaned, the Sabbath meal was prepared, clothes were pressed and set aside, and the aroma of fresh flowers filled the air. Before the sun set Friday evening, a special white lace tablecloth was placed on the table, reserved exclusively for the Sabbath. I would play worship music that I only listened to on the Sabbath, filling the house with a spirit of worship.
As the sun set, I would sing songs of thanksgiving and fall asleep reading The Desire of Ages, eagerly waiting for the night to pass so I could worship God in His holy temple. I looked forward to the fulfillment of the promise: “If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on My holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy day of the Lord honorable, and shall honor Him, not doing your own ways, nor finding your own pleasure, nor speaking your own words, then you shall delight yourself in the Lord; and I will cause you to ride on the high hills of the earth, and feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father. The mouth of the Lord has spoken” (Isa. 58:13–14, NKJV).
Throughout the holy hours of the Sabbath, I was [and still am] careful not to engage in anything that would desecrate the day or distract me from worshipping God. As the sacred hours passed, filled with worship, fellowship with fellow believers, and service to God, the thought of the day ending filled my heart with sadness. I didn’t want to leave the sweetness of the Sabbath and return to the pressures of daily life.
The devil would have us lose the beauty and joy of keeping the Sabbath holy. If we are to experience the solemnity of the Sabbath, we must guard against losing the anticipation and joy that come with properly preparing for its holy arrival.
Lillian Torres Associate Ministerial and Church Regeneration Director
Fall in Love With Jesus at Camp Meeting 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable spiritual experience at Camp Meeting 2025! From June 6–14, the campus of Blue Mountain Academy in Hamburg, Pa., will come alive with worship, fellowship and inspiration for the entire family.
This year’s theme, “Love Jesus,” invites members to deepen their relationship with Him through uplifting worship services, engaging seminars and fun activities.
Organizers are excited to welcome a dynamic lineup of speakers sharing powerful messages of hope and faith,
Gary Gibbs, president of the Pennsylvania Conference, invites church members to the upcoming camp meeting in June.
including Eric Walsh, a physician and health care administrator; Ron Halvorsen, Jr., pastor of the Collegedale church (Tenn.); and Derek Morris, field representative for the Hope Channel.
Camp meeting isn’t just about worship; it’s a week packed with activities that bring people closer to God and each other. From engaging programs for children and youth to thought-provoking seminars for adults, there’s something for everyone. It’s more than an event; it’s a spiritual retreat and a time to:
• Reconnect with Jesus in a meaningful way.
• Build lasting friendships with fellow believers.
• Recharge your spiritual batteries in a peaceful, Christ-centered environment.
So, gather your family and friends, and make plans to attend Camp Meeting 2025. For more information and to reserve lodging, visit paconference.org/ camp-meeting.
Adventist Whole Health Network Opens New Clinic
The Adventist Whole Health Network (AWHN) is excited to announce a significant step forward in its mission to combine health and the gospel: the grand opening of a new Adventist Whole Health Clinic. Located in the Fairview Village area, the clinic will operate as a direct primary care facility, emphasizing a personalized approach to health care. Patients will benefit from close relationships with a doctor with a strong focus on lifestyle medicine, addressing root causes of health issues and promoting long-term wellness. Joshua Fleming, a board-certified family physician from Weimar, Calif., will lead this groundbreaking initiative.
Even while undergoing renovations to prepare for the clinic’s operations, Fleming served patients through telemedicine and home visits, ensuring that AWHN’s vision for accessible, Christ-centered health care was already making an impact.
“We firmly believe the health message will serve as a powerful right hand of the gospel in the coming year,” shares Erwin Hein, AWHN’s executive director. “The new clinic is a pivotal part of our ministry, integrating health principles with spiritual outreach to touch lives and build connections for the kingdom.”
This new clinic reflects AWHN’s broader mission to promote health and wellness throughout Pennsylvania. It builds on years of initiatives like community health fairs and “Dinner with the Doctor” events, which have reached countless individuals and families with the health message.
The Adventist Whole Health Clinic promises to be a place of Christcentered care, offering healing and hope for patients. Learn more at adventistwholehealthclinic.org.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 6–9: Teen Prayer Conference
Teens are invited to join Pastor Dee Casper at Blue Mountain Academy (BMA) as he equips them to live their lives “Building Unshakeable Faith.”
April 4–6: Still Faithful Women’s Retreat
Celebrate God’s faithfulness and 35 years of Women’s Ministries in Pennsylvania. Speakers include Anastacia Ferguson, Denise Reinwald, Celeste Ryan Blyden and Tamyra Horst.
April 13: God’s Girls Gala
Girls ages 12–15 are invited to an afternoon tackling topics like anxiety, friendship and faith at the Pennsylvania Conference Mission and Evangelism Center in Hamburg. Plan to stay and attend the BMA Experience, April 14–15, to learn more about BMA.
April 25–27: BMA Alumni Weekend
May 4: Pathfinder Fair at BMA
May 18: Mission Trips to BMA or Laurel Lake Camp
June 6–14: English Camp Meeting at BMA
June 20–22: Hispanic Camp Meeting at BMA
To learn more and find additional events, visit paconference.org/events.
Pennsylvania Pen is published in the Visitor by the Pennsylvania Conference n 2359 Mountain Road, PA 19526 Phone: (610) 374-8331, ext. 210 n paconference.org n President, Gary Gibbs n Editor, Tamyra Horst
Joshua Fleming, a family physician, is leading the new Adventist Whole Health Clinic.
Living in Readiness: Occupy Till
He Comes
For over half a century, as a baptized and devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, I have heard the clarion call time and time again: Jesus is coming soon—possibly even in my lifetime. Yet, for reasons known only to God, Jesus has not returned.
When people proclaim that Christ’s return is imminent, they often point to the chaos in the world, concluding that humanity cannot endure much more. Surely, Christ’s return must be near. Right? Or perhaps they draw comfort from His words in Revelation 22:12: “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work” (NKJV).
In our modern understanding, “quickly” suggests something will happen soon, but that’s not the message being conveyed here. Instead, the word “quickly” describes the manner of Jesus’ return—suddenly and unexpectedly. The apostle Paul echoes this idea in 1 Thessalonians 5:2: “For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (NIV).
Think about this: When did a thief ever give notice of plans to break into your home? Speaking from personal experience, no such courtesy was extended.
Scripture is clear—no one knows the day or hour of Christ’s return. Therefore, our best course of action is to live in a constant state of readiness. Jesus emphasized this in Luke 19:13: “Occupy till I come” (KJV).
By “occupy,” Jesus didn’t mean idly waiting or becoming entangled with worldly distractions that are of little or no eternal value. Rather, He called us to actively engage in His work—to be about our Father’s business. And what is that business? It is to be salt and light to a world desperately in need of both.
H.M.S. Richards, a pioneer in Adventist media ministry, captured this idea perfectly:
“Keep about your work. Do not flinch because the lion roars; do not stop to stone the devil’s dogs; do not fool away your time chasing the devil’s rabbits. Do your work. Let liars lie, let sectarians quarrel, let corporations resolve, let editors publish, let the devil do his worst; but see to it that nothing hinders you from fulfilling the work that God has given you.”
To that, I say, “Amen!”
Let us remain faithful, steadfastly occupying ourselves with God’s work, so that we are prepared for the day He returns—suddenly and without warning.
Charles A. Tapp President
Buena Vista Cantata Brings Community Together
Late last year, the Buena Vista (Va.) church hosted a memorable cantata, led by Rick Labate, who recently retired from his role as conference vice president for Pastoral Ministries. With a heart for ministry, Labate proposed performing the cantata during the morning service for the congregation and again in the evening to welcome the community.
Despite concerns about attendance, the church stepped out in faith, encouraging members to invite friends,
family and neighbors. As the evening performance approached, choir members prepared nervously, unsure of how many would attend. To their delight, more than 50 guests filled the sanctuary, including friends, family members and even a neighbor and his wife.
The cantata’s music resonated deeply with attendees, and the evening ended with refreshments in the fellowship hall, where meaningful conversations and new connections flourished. Among the blessings was a heartfelt card from a neighbor who shared how moved they were by the program.
“For us, this experience reinforced the power of faith, community and outreach, reminding us all that every step taken in faith contributes to God’s greater plan,” says Luis Beltré, pastor of Buena Vista.
John Nixon, Jr., Named VP for Pastoral Ministries
The Potomac Conference announces the election of John Nixon, Jr., as its new vice president for Pastoral Ministries. Nixon, a seasoned minister and leader, brings a wealth of experience, a heart for service and a proven ability to lead with precision and care.
Nixon’s journey in ministry has demonstrated a deep commitment to pastoral excellence. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology from Oakwood University (Ala.), and later earned a Master of Divinity in 2004 and a Doctor of Ministry in 2013 on the campus of Andrews University (Mich.).
Until his new appointment, Nixon served as Potomac’s associate director for Pastoral Ministries for the North. His collaborative leadership style and ability to navigate complex decisions with wisdom and sensitivity distinguished him as a transformative leader.
Nixon expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am deeply honored and excited to have the opportunity to lead the Pastoral Ministries Department of the Potomac Conference. This role is a calling I embrace with humility and a sincere desire to serve. I look forward to supporting our pastors and congregations with the heart of a shepherd—listening, guiding and championing the mission of Christ in our communities.”
As vice president for Pastoral Ministries, Nixon will oversee the spiritual leadership of the Potomac Conference, supporting pastors and congregations in their mission to share Christ’s love. His vision, experience and passion for discipleship will inspire and uplift the entire Potomac Conference community.
Nixon steps into this role following the retirement of Rick Labate, who served with distinction since 2021.
Beltsville School Shares Songs at Mall in Columbia
Beltsville Adventist School’s (BAS) select choir and orchestra, directed by Robin Roys, shared their musical ministry with the community by performing at The Mall in Columbia late last year. The
ensembles performed a 30-minute concert around the poinsettia tree, located in the center of the mall.
The select choir is comprised of students in grades 6–8, while the BAS orchestra includes students from grades 3–8. Shoppers enjoyed the concert, and some even interacted with the students afterward. The mall manager enthusiastically invited the group to return next year for another performance, as this has become an annual tradition for BAS and the students look forward to performing at the mall each year.
Principal Jerson Malaguit strongly supports getting BAS students involved in evangelism within the community. “During the holidays, everyone is especially receptive to the messages of peace, and this season is a perfect time for us to proclaim to the public a Christ-filled message. At BAS, we strive to use as many opportunities as possible to engage students in a variety of ways for ministry. The more we can provide instances for the students to step out and use their talents for God is good Adventist pedagogy, good disciple-training and good evangelism.”
Academy Encourages Spiritual Growth
“Before coming to Blue Mountain Academy (BMA), I had a Bible and went to church, but I didn’t really like either of those things,” shares Malachi Christiansen. “I would go to church and not even listen. I would just long for the time I wasn’t at church.”
Christiansen felt the same way when he began his freshmen year at BMA. But gradually, his life began to change. He found himself enjoying the sermons and reading the Bible. “Thanks to leaders in the dorm and others around me, I didn’t just like the time when I had to study or go to church,” he explains. “I decided to either wake up earlier or study by myself. I chose to go to Bible activities. BMA changed me so much that my favorite time of the day was when I was studying or at church.”
His experience didn’t just change his life—it also impacted his friend Kyle Foulke, whose parents and grandparents are BMA alumni. Foulke found himself worried about fitting in and making friends. “But God, in His awesomeness, allowed me to meet an amazing young man, Malachi,” he says. The two became roommates, causing Foulke to feel more confident about school. “Little did I know there was nothing to worry about at BMA,” says Foulke. “I found the most loving and kind environment that glorified God and implemented Him in every aspect of life. I was surprised by BMA, and I know this experience will make me a man of God.”
Adam Bially, BMA’s lead pastor and chaplain, states, “Kyle and Malachi have both experienced a great revival since coming to Blue Mountain Academy. We intentionally strive to provide a Christcentered education that impacts students and deepens their relationship with God—through inspiring worship, stimulating Bible classes, FOCUS weeks, Power Weekends and opportunities to put spiritual learning into practice by serving others, the community and the world around them.”
This intentional focus on spiritual growth is designed to not only change lives during a young person’s high school years but impact the rest of their lives.
Blue Mountain Academy roommates Malachi Christiansen and Kyle Foulke praise God for allowing them to meet each other at school, a place where they feel His presence on a daily basis.
Senior Adriana Campos sums up the BMA experience, saying, “I have learned to always trust God through every trial and every step of the way. I will take these lessons [with me] for the rest of my life so that I can continue growing spiritually each and every day.”
Building a Spiritual Oasis in Western Maryland
Highland View Academy (HVA) is on a mission to bring young hearts into communion with the Creator. In a world filled with constant distractions, stealing the attention of our young people, it has been the academy’s mission to provide a spiritual oasis in Western Maryland. Whether it’s treating the sports teams as ministries or training students to be leaders in their communities through the work program or becoming active church members through the Campus Ministries program, HVA holds fast to this truth that the work of education is “the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come” (Ellen White, Education, p. 13).
By creating spaces for students to connect without the distraction of technology and focus on the spiritual development of every student through every program, HVA has seen incredible growth in its student body.
Senior Katie Miller says, “My walk with God has grown immensely through the things I have
experienced [at HVA]. I went on two mission trips: Holbrook Indian School in Arizona, and Santiago, Chile. These trips have helped me to be a missionary for God and … to see that God can use me and my talents for His glory. My walk has grown during the many spiritual retreats I have attended. These retreats helped my love for God to keep burning brightly. I will be forever grateful for these opportunities.”
Academics, sports, on-campus jobs and general programming are all tools the campus uses to draw students closer to Jesus. Juliana Clayton, a junior and a recently baptized student, says, “The staff and different activities on campus help draw my mind to Jesus and, overall, during my time here, I have been able to experience God so much more.”
The atmosphere on HVA’s campus is different from the surrounding area; it is a place where students from many different backgrounds can experience Jesus, say leaders.
It’s for this reason that HVA traveled to Columbus, Ohio, to participate in the annual Generation of Youth for Christ (GYC) conference—a place where thousands of like-minded young people come together to experience God. A small team of staff and students set up a HVA booth at the exhibitors’ center at GYC, where they were able to tell many people about the awesome ministry that is happening at HVA.
As the academy continues to focus on the spiritual development of its school, they also intend to tell more people about the hidden gem found in the hills of Western Maryland and provide an opportunity for more students with a desire to know and serve Jesus to join the HVA family.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 13–24: Mission Trip to Kenya
April 13–14: Academy Days
April 18–20: Alumni Weekend
June 1: Graduation
Sophomore Matt Dela Paz and academy Chaplain Elijah Ramjattan share information with attendees at a recent GYC meeting.
Alumna Wins Miss New Jersey
Naomie Charles, a beloved substitute teacher, mentor, Angels of Praise director and Class of 2018 alumna at Lake Nelson Adventist Academy (LNAA), has achieved an incredible milestone. She has earned the title of 2025 United States of America’s Miss New Jersey. Charles’ journey from walking the halls as a student to becoming a state titleholder is a testament to her talent, dedication and heart for her community.
Charles credits her success to her parents and many of those who have supported her during her foundational years. She also credits her success to the values and principles she learned as a student at LNAA that she now embodies in her everyday life.
“Leave people better than you found them, and truly live a legacy,” she shares. These core beliefs not only inspire her personal life but also serve as a foundation in her pageantry journey and commitment to making a positive impact on others. This mindset has shaped many of her relationships with students at LNAA and the community around her.
Charles’ pageantry story began four years ago through the Miss New Jersey USA pageant system. She lost the first time she competed, but discovered she enjoyed the concepts within the system such as fashion, networking, creativity and meeting a spectrum of women across New Jersey who were reaching their goals every day.
Lake Nelson Adventist Academy alumna Naomie Charles is the 2025 United States of America’s Miss New Jersey.
She believes her faith in God allows her to continue the work she is committed to doing and to act selflessly and love others, as is stated in Galatians 5:13.
Charles shares heartfelt advice for those who might be considering pageantry: “Allow yourself to grow, learn, fail, seek advice and accept help.”
As Charles looks ahead, she plans to continue to minister to the youth at her church—Eben-Ezer—in Elizabeth, N.J., as they start a blog to connect with others and answer the same questions that her younger self had. This will, in turn, build community where she can share advice.
With Charles’ dedication, hard work and faith, she continues to be a role model for students and an inspiration and shining light to all who know her.
Naomie Charles joins Lake Nelson Adventist Academy students at a holiday program.
Academy Holds Annual Career Interview Week
Last fall, Pine Forge Academy (PFA) celebrated National Career Development Month, a campaign dedicated to highlighting the importance of career exploration and planning. It encourages individuals to set goals, explore various career paths and make informed decisions about their professional futures.
PFA chooses to celebrate career month by ensuring their students have access to opportunities that empower them on their career journeys. One of the highlights of this commitment is their annual Career Interview Week. During Career Interview Week, students engage in 20-minute, student-led interviews with professionals working in fields they are interested in exploring. This unique experience allows students to gain valuable insights from experts actively working in their chosen fields; build essential networking and communication skills; and establish connections that may support their future career paths.
The process begins with students sharing their career interests. From there, they work to find professionals who are willing to volunteer their time for interviews. Whenever possible, PFA aims to provide a variety of professionals in similar fields to broaden students’ perspectives.
This weeklong event has become a favorite time of the year. It’s an incredible opportunity for learning, inspiration and networking. At the conclusion of the week, students are provided with a career contact log which includes headshots and contact information for all participating volunteers. This resource allows students to follow up, ask additional questions and build meaningful, individual connections.
The feedback from both students and volunteers has been overwhelmingly positive. Students walk away with greater knowledge, inspiration and motivation.
Senior Andres’ Trellis says, “I found this career interview program extremely helpful because it helped me truly understand why I’m interested in those careers but also shifted my interest as well. This program should definitely continue for future students because it truly is essential to their paths and where they might want to go. An opportunity of career interviews on such a large scale is not easy to come across, so having all these interviews at your doorstep is definitely amazing and helpful.”
Senior Alex Washington says, “What I found valuable was that, even though they don’t know us personally, they want to see us succeed and ... that gives me a lot of confidence for my future.”
Senior Taevia Miller says, “I found the career interview program to be extremely beneficial. It provided a unique opportunity to learn directly from someone in my field of interest, which is not something you can encounter often as a high school student. The ability to ask personalized questions made the experience even more valuable and helped me see the path to my future career more clearly.
… [This program’s] hands-on nature makes it engaging, and it allows students to explore their interests in an educational way.”—Traci Carroll, Guidance Counselor
My RingFest and Ohio Handbell Tour Experience
The bus departed full of Valley Ringers—students eager and prepared to present the best of Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) wherever we traveled. The initial journey to Ohio was filled with stunning scenery, many creative verses of “Sit at the Welcome Table,” and academy students’ favorite hobby: sleeping.
The next day, we were thrilled to perform at both Eastwood Adventist Academy and Worthington Adventist Academy. As the students arrived, we hustled to complete the setup. Every year, I love to see the younger children’s faces light up with excitement as they see the shiny brass bells. A few of us prepared special vocal music that was met with applause and delight.
After the performances, we headed to Easton Mall, a RingFest tour tradition that Daniel Biaggi, our director, organizes. It is a great time to bond and have fun. That evening, we arrived at the Toledo First church for RingFest’s registration, a short worship service and an introduction to hundreds of fellow ringers.
Every day we were ready to go at 7:30 a.m. sharp, fully prepared to ring to our hearts’ content throughout the day and into the evening. The church staff fed us generous, nourishing meals. Sharing music with bell choirs from across the country helped build new connections.
“I’ve met a lot of new people through SVA tours and activities, and saw some of them at RingFest,” says Jordan Rivera (’26).
RingFest clinicians David Harris and Sandra Eithur shared techniques with us, highlighting specific sounds, conveying emotion by moving with the bells, and sharing the importance of engaging with the clinicians for direction. We learned about maintaining rhythm, handling tempo changes and refining the nuances of sound.
After the first full day of mass rehearsal, a select Festival Choir rehearsed a special piece for the final concert. This choir was made up of one member from each school’s bell group. Senior Samantha Trigo was chosen to represent SVA.
She shares, “My senior [year] RingFest has been emotional. Thank you to the clinicians who have made four years of RingFest unforgettable.”
After many hours of practice, the mass bell choir was ready for the 2024 RingFest Sacred Concert. The soaring harmonies blended seamlessly and filled the church. The exquisite melodies and the vibrant energy of the bell ringers captivated the audience. As the clinicians’ gestures grew more animated, the intensity of the music grew. By the grand finale, the atmosphere was electric—the choir infused every note with grace, passion and artistry, leaving the audience spellbound.—Nolynn Dahlberg (’25)
Career Fair Features More Than 30 Professionals
This year’s career fair at Spencerville Adventist Academy (SAA) embraced the theme, “I Will Go,” echoing the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s strategic focus for the 2020–2025 quinquennium. With a mission to inspire students to utilize their God-given spiritual gifts in witness and service for Christ, the event transcended traditional career guidance by weaving purpose and faith into the fabric of professional aspirations.
This year, the career fair featured more than 30 distinguished professionals (pictured below). The event provided students from Pre-K to high school with insights into various professions, while highlighting the importance of serving Christ in their careers. Excitement filled the air as elementary students arrived dressed as their future selves—from tiny lab coats to firefighter uniforms.
Students in grades 4–8 were captivated by a keynote address from Emmanuel Asiedu, Columbia Union Conference treasurer. His faith-filled journey and professional experiences offered a compelling narrative of perseverance. They also attended presentations by a software engineer, a registered nurse, and an educator, each showcasing diverse pathways to using talents for God’s glory.
High school students began their day with an inspiring keynote from Seelan Abraham, a successful entrepreneur. His story underscored the enduring influence of Adventist education in shaping character and integrity. They also benefited from a panel featuring professionals such as an ophthalmologist, a software engineer, a sales representative, a military chaplain, a clinical educator and pathologist, a video producer, a law and human rights attorney, and a human resources specialist. Each panelist’s
story emphasized the alignment of career ambitions with faith and service.
“My favorite part was when a video producer came and showed us many of his productions and what it is like to create one of them,” says sophomore Lucas Chow.
The main gym buzzed with activity as representatives from WGTS 91.9 and the Children’s Ministries departments from the General Conference and the North American Division hosted interactive booths.
Highlights fr om Spencer ville Ad ventist Academ y ALL FOR CHRIST
Senior Emma Campbell says, “Career Day … equipped me to make an informed decision about my future. I also learned about opportunities to serve my community.”
LOVE TO LEARN LIVE TO SERVE
These sentiments reflect the meticulous planning by Carmen Esposito, SAA’s guidance counselor, whose tireless efforts ensured the event’s success. By bridging professional aspirations with spiritual purpose, the “I Will Go” career fair empowered students to say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.”
Members of the Burtonsville Volunteer Fire Department allow the elementary students to explore a fire truck.
Educators Use Robotics to Teach STEM
In 2014, teacher Sam Joseph started a LEGO® Robotics Club for middle school students at Spring Valley Academy (SVA). The STEM club, now co-sponsored by teacher Allyssa Sharpe, continues to encourage middle school students to practice the fundamental skills of engineering through the design, programming and testing of a fully functioning robot.
Freshman David Constantine joined LEGO robotics in 2021 when he was in the sixth grade. “What I liked most about being in the LEGO Robotics Club was that I was surrounded by ‘my people,’” he says. “We all shared a common goal, and each contributed our part to achieve it. We were a team!”
For Constantine, this included attending regional competitions and a national championship. He moved into a mentor role in his later middle school years, and it was students like Constantine who got high school teacher Dillon Zimmerman to brainstorm how to reach high schoolers. “There’s such a strong [middle school] LEGO robotics program at SVA,” says Zimmerman, “but up until this school year, there was nowhere for them to go to after they graduated from eighth grade.”
Hence, Zimmerman started the High School Robotics Club in September 2024, and the team joined the FIRST Robotics League.
“Instead of building robots out of LEGO and its ecosystem, we utilize metal components, servos, motors and other types of components used in conventional robotics,” explains Constantine, who one day hopes to become an engineer. “What we do in robotics is more than just building robots and programming them,” Constantine explains. “We act like our own engineering startup.” The students strategize, research components, fundraise to find sponsors and advertise. He estimates that only half of the members of their club actually work on the robot itself, because the club needs so many different types of thinkers to operate successfully.
“There’s a place for every kid to be a part of what
Senior Aisha Hernandez, freshman David Constantine and senior Sophia Velasco problem-solve during Spring Valley Academy’s High School Robotics Club.
we’re doing,” says Zimmerman. “Not just the students focused on engineering. Everyone has a role and is valued.”
Ultimately, that’s what clubs like LEGO robotics and FIRST Robotics League are about: cultivating student talent and developing their gifts in service of something bigger. It’s what keeps teachers like Zimmerman, Joseph and Sharpe excited about introducing these engineering concepts to their students through these clubs.
But even beyond that, Zimmerman shares an even bigger goal: “My ultimate goal is to help students to understand that by becoming empathetic problem-solvers, they can implement Christ’s method of meeting the needs of the people around them before bidding them to ‘come follow Him.’ There are opportunities for ministry, even in engineering. I want students to connect their passion for STEM with their hearts for His service.”
The Armed Services—A True Profession
Takoma Academy’s (TA) faculty and staff would like to acknowledge and honor all its alumni who have served proudly in our nation’s military. There is often much talk about how God calls individuals to pastoral ministry, education or some other service-oriented profession, but many often overlook the military—the voluntary sacrifice made by so many. Jesus, the ultimate exemplar, led a life of service to His fellow men and women. TA highlights a few alumni who have chosen to show their love for humankind by enlisting in the Armed Services:
Carlise Shaw (’22) has this advice for those who might be looking for a career path outside of the traditional four-year college: “Don’t ever feel ashamed that you chose a different path because that college isn’t going anywhere. You can always [switch paths] when you figure out why you want to go and what you want to do. God has a path set in stone for us already. All you have to do is ask for God’s hand over your life. I love serving my country, and I still have the opportunity to go to college without the worry of financial debt.”
Operational Specialist Shaw serves in the U.S. Coast Guard and truly enjoys what she does. “I’m able to help someone whose boat may be taking on water or someone whose vessel is disabled,” she says. “I love that I can help people on the water get to where they need to be, even from behind my desk. It’s rewarding knowing that I was able to save a life—even if it’s just one.”
Ian Chandler (’19) joined the Army National Guard after graduating from Oakwood University (Ala.) in
2023. “The reason I decided to join the Army is because I felt impressed upon by the Lord. I really wasn’t sure if it was something I should do, especially because the military isn’t something that’s really promoted in the Adventist community. I felt God telling me to join, so I went ahead and did it. College isn’t for everyone, and the military can offer a lot of exciting opportunities for young people joining right after high school. I’ve met many very successful and impactful leaders in the Army who did not attend college and had great careers serving their country.”
TA recognizes and appreciates its many graduates who had or have careers in the armed forces. Chief Naval Officer Derek Thorpe (’89) served nearly two decades as a submarine warfare specialist, enlisted warfare specialist, naval engineer and several other designations. Thorpe passed away in 2023, just a few months before his scheduled retirement.
These affirmations serve as a precursor to a more comprehensive tribute dedicated to alumni who are veterans or active-duty service members. Email srobinson@ta.edu to provide names of TA alumni with a military background.
Announcing a New Vision Statement & Strategic Plan
Share in Our Vision!
I’m excited to share our new Vision statement and our bold new Vision 2030 Strategic Plan that defines how we will fulfill our Mission to extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing.
Our new Vision reveals the heart of who we are while challenging us to reach new heights of excellence, compassion and innovation. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and promoting the best health outcomes in our community.
I invite you to learn more about Adventist HealthCare and the many ways we nurture hope and healing throughout the Washington, D.C., region. We are focused on serving the needs of both our patients and our team members – and would love your partnership as we continue to create a therapeutic environment of respect that supports health in body, mind and spirit.
Understand Our New Vision Statement
“We will be the trusted choice for exceptional care in every community we serve.”
We will be
We pledge ourselves to the forward-looking, ambitious goal of what we want to become – starting today.
the trusted choice
We aim to be the preferred option of all patients, partners, physicians and team members in our community because they can depend on our reliability.
for exceptional care
We direct our energy to providing integrated, high-quality healthcare services that are easy to navigate and exceed expectations.
in every community we serve
We strive to offer a coordinated healthcare network that provides a cohesive process and consistent excellence throughout our region.
Learn About Our Strategic Goals
Our Vision is fully aligned with a strategic plan which includes specific departmental objectives and key benchmarks to advance six shared goals:
• Expanding Our Mission – Increasing access to care and addressing health inequities through partnerships.
• Being the Best Place to Work and Grow – Empowering team members and creating an environment that fosters collaboration and professional growth.
• Providing Consistent and Exceptional Quality of Care – Aligning with High Reliability Organization (HRO) principles in every care setting.
• Ensuring a Compassionate and Frictionless Patient Journey – Redefining the healthcare experience to be seamless, empathetic and personalized.
• Achieving Impactful Financial Performance – Strengthening our organization’s ability to reinvest in and enhance its Mission.
• Pursuing Breakthrough Innovation – Embracing new technologies, partnerships and processes to transform healthcare delivery.
We extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing.
Living Our Mission to Extend Cod’s Care
Daffodil Baez Named President of Fort Washington Medical Center
Adventist HealthCare has announced that Daffodil Baez, who previously served as Adventist HealthCare’s Chief Executive Officer of the Howard University Faculty Practice Plan, will be the new president of Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center. Part of the Adventist HealthCare system since 2019, Fort Washington Medical Center is an acutecare hospital in Prince George’s County, MD, offering a range of inpatient, surgical and specialty services as well as emergency care.
Daffodil, who holds master’s degrees in public health and business, started her career as a financial analyst and then transitioned to practice management. As the assistant director of Clinical Operations for the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, she streamlined operations, galvanized performance to meet strategic targets, and directed the launch and operations of a joint venture with Texas Health Resources. Prior to that role, Daffodil held leadership positions as a clinical practice manager for multiple outpatient surgical clinics at an academic medical center in Texas, a chief transformation officer for an integrated behavioral healthcare group in Phoenix, and a practice administrator for a pediatrics practice also in Phoenix.
Encouraging Hope with Patients
NICU Nurse Spotlighted in U.S. Postal Service’s Healthcare Stamp Release
Last year, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) unveiled its “Thank You Healthcare Community” Forever Stamp, recognizing the courage, resilience and sacrifice of healthcare workers across the country –including Michele Brashear, RN, from Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Michele was one of 10 healthcare workers from around the country – and the only caregiver from Maryland – to be featured in a USPS video commemorating the stamp’s release. She has spent 27 years caring for Shady Grove Medical Center’s tiniest patients. Her work includes helping families navigate the emotional challenges of having a newborn in intensive care. The video offers a glimpse of Michele caring for babies in the NICU and spotlights the commitment and compassion of U.S. healthcare workers. Nursing is a family affair for Michele. Her daughter, Morgan Brashear, RN, also serves families in Shady Grove Medical Center’s Birth Center. View the video at youtube.com/watch?v=3kPVINyelFI.
Applications Open!
The Lucy Byard Scholarship was created to honor the legacy of Lucy Byard and to reaffirm Adventist HealthCare’s commitment to treat all people with respect and dignity. The scholarship will provide needed funding to gifted nursing students of limited financial means to help close gaps in both health-disparities and economic-inequity among people of color. Learn more at AdventistHealthCare.com/LucyByardScholarship.
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center now offers the Hope Channel via the GetWell network! Owned and operated by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, the Hope Channel offers programs on holistic Christian living focusing on faith, health, relationships and community. This effort expands the access already offered at Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation inpatient locations and Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center. It also reflects AHC’s commitment to provide health information and encouragement.
A Prayer for the Right Time, the Right Place, and the Right People
By Ben Riggs
In late June 2023, Kristy Gilmore was five weeks away from her due date, ready to have her baby. She prayed, asking God to hurry things along. “Honestly,” she says, “labor and delivery sounded better than more waiting.” But Phillip, her husband, encouraged a less hurried prayer.
Instead, they prayed for their baby to arrive at the right time, in the right place, with the right people.
A labor of waiting
On July 20, after being induced, Kristy returned home when labor stalled. That evening, her water broke. The lack of traffic made getting to Soin Medical Center easy that evening, likely from the tornado warning and torrential rain.
Her labor progressed smoothly at first. But after hours of pushing with no progress, Kristy spiked a fever. The baby’s heart rate climbed, and her midwife recommended a C-section—Kristy’s greatest fear. Even so, they needed to act quickly, as Kristy’s fever rose and condition plummeted. Phillip made the call to proceed.
A complicated delivery
The surgical team moved like clockwork, but complications arose. The baby, breech and sideways, made delivery difficult. Sedated, Kristy hemorrhaged, losing nearly two liters of blood. A nurse whisked Phillip through the doors into the hall, leaving Kristy in her care team’s hands. In the hallway, Phillip prayed.
Eight hours later, at 4 a.m., Kristy woke up. Disoriented and scared, she scanned the room until her eyes found the nurse sitting by her bedside. The nurse, monitoring Kristy’s blood transfusion, reassured Kristy, “I’m not going anywhere.” She explained that Phillip had stepped out and their baby was in the Special Care Nursery.
Meeting EJ
Phillip returned and, 30 minutes later, Kristy met her Edna Joy, “EJ” for short.
As she held her, the trauma of her birth faded. “There was something about holding EJ,” Kristy says. “I didn’t care about what happened.” She was here. She was healthy. And they were together.
Disaster Simulation Helps Prepare Future Nurses
By Rebecca Ingle
Kettering College’s interprofessional education (IPE) simulation center team recently held an all-day disaster simulation event for senior nursing students to offer them insight into the protocol of a mass casualty event. The event is part of Kettering College’s nursing curriculum to allow students the chance to learn critical skills for disaster response and patient care, while being surrounded by chaos.
Two years ago, Kettering College began a collaboration with an offsite location to host disaster simulations. The 50-acre training center was created solely to prepare first responders and military for disasters by replicating realworld emergencies. The site has the capacity to replicate larger scenarios than the campus could, creating an immersive experience for students.
Phil Smith, Kettering College IPE simulation center coordinator, says this year’s scenario mimicked a chemical factory explosion along with injuries that might occur. At the beginning of the event, student “victims” received moulage to represent injuries ranging in severity from acute to fatal.
Students who were not portraying victims were tasked with finding victims and working under pressure to respond quickly and calmly. Phil says, “The students practiced
emergency triage protocols with limited resources to prioritize care for several patients. They also worked through the process of managing and moving surviving victims through a makeshift medical facility, simulating the chaotic aftermath of a disaster.”
Nursing student Hana’a Hindi participated in the disaster simulation event and felt it was a valuable part of her education. She had the opportunity to first be a patient with a critical injury and then a nurse who had to triage patients and determine to which location they should be sent.
She says, “It was a challenging experience to figure out this new triaging experience that was different than what I was used to. However, it gave me more appreciation for all the people who come together to help during disaster events in our community. I now understand the roles of first responders who bring patients to the hospital for nurses, like me, to care for. I’m so thankful for all the Kettering College faculty and staff who made this happen.”
Scan to see a video of last year’s disaster simulation event.
A Bold Progressive Vision for Adventist Education in the 21st Century
Congratulations to the Seventh-day Adventist Church for investing in Christian education since it was formally established in 1863. Among its most prominent founders were Joseph Bates, James White and Ellen G. White. According to the Statistical Report of Seventh-day Adventist Conferences, Missions, and Institutions: The Eightythird Annual Report Year Ending December 31, 1945, it reported that in the 1870s, the denomination turned to evangelism through missionary work and revivals, tripling its membership to 16,609 by 1880 and establishing a presence beyond North America during the late 19th century. The denomination’s rapid growth continued, with 75,000 members in 1901. By that time, the denomination operated six colleges, a medical school, a 40+ academies, 12 hospitals and 12 publishing houses. By 1945, the church estimated that it had 246,000 members in the United States and Canada, along with 332,000 members who lived in other parts of the world; the church’s budget was $12.7 million, and the number of students who were enrolled in the church’s schools was 140,000.
May I be bold enough to suggest that the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s growth was due to evangelism and the investment in Christian education through missionary work, revivals and the establishment of Adventist Christian schools at all levels? Christian education played a major role in preparing individuals to be leaders, evangelists, pastors, missionaries, teachers and health care workers. Frankly, much of the denomination’s workforce was prepared in Adventist schools at some or all educational levels.
The General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists reported that in 2023, the Seventh-day Adventist Church had associations with 10,364 educational institutions operating in more than 150 countries around the world, with more than 2,330,305 million students worldwide. It is considered the most extensive Protestant educational system and the second-largest Christian educational system in the world. Again, congratulations to the Adventist Church for the foundational investment in Christian education.
The 21st century requires the 1860 pioneers commitment with the required 21st century bold strategies for continuing and growing Adventist Christian education. The buildings have expired, and there is a need to develop and implement a new organizational structure based on current best practices to attract, prepare and equip a Christian
workforce for the gospel mission. The mission remains the same: to preach and teach the gospel, promote health through hospitals and clinics, run development projects to improve living standards and provide relief in times of calamity. We must be committed to preparing a workforce in the same way Jesus was prepared. “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52, NIV). There is no better place to prepare such a workforce than in an Adventist Christian institution. If we don’t do this, the world will. I believe that many, if not most, of our Adventist youth attend non-Adventist schools at all levels.
This is the moment for church leaders and members to work toward a common goal of fostering educational opportunities, supporting families and strengthening local and international academic communities so that our students can be ready for the workplace and eternity. This includes the entire educational system—early childhood, K–12 education, higher education, and workforce professional development. Each sector is a load-bearing support for the sharing of the life and teachings of Jesus. The educational progress of the Adventist Church must not end with the current achievements; there are more people to be prepared for eternity. We must now take a hard and detailed review of the current worldwide system and implement a bold, progressive vision for the Adventist education brand for the system to be sustainable for the next 100 years. The desired outcome is a system that ensures that quality education is manageable and accessible for every family and for everyone seeking growth and development.
A thriving Adventist education system was essential for the growth and development of the Adventist world church. A thriving 21st century Adventist educational system is even more essential for the continuing growth of the church and its mission. George Orwell once said, “Fruit trees are not planted for the fruit they yield tomorrow, but for the fruit that they can yield in the years to come.” Now is the moment to examine the current data to boldly implement the actions and adjustments that will produce a sustainable Adventist educational system for years and decades to come or until Jesus returns. God uses our schools to engage minds and transform lives.
This is Washington Adventist University.
Weymouth Spence, President
WAU NURSING, FALL 2023
PASSING RATE ACHIEVES 100% NCLEX-RN
TAKOMA PARK, Md.— Washington Adventist University’s (WAU) Edyth T. James Department of Nursing announced that its latest cohort in Sept. 2024 achieved a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.
“This is a significant accomplishment,” says Tijuana Griffin, Nursing Department director.
“Congratulations to each student for their dedication and success.”
WAU President Weymouth Spence commended the department’s achievement, attributing the success to the faculty’s commitment to excellence.
“The WAU Nursing program continues to prepare students to provide exceptional care and leadership in the field,” he says.
Provost Cheryl Kisunzu also recognized the faculty and staff for their dedication, noting WAU’s role in addressing the growing nursing shortage.
One of Maryland’s oldest programs, WAU’s Nursing Department partners with regional health care facilities, including Adventist HealthCare, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, and Children’s National Medical Center to provide hands-on clinical experience.
President’s Memo: Here Comes the Sun
Sometimes, all it takes is the tiniest bit of sun peeking out from behind a dark cloud to bring us hope. Everyone has experienced the feeling of being under a dark cloud. Remember how it felt the last time you experienced it? Do you remember how it felt when someone helped you see a bit of sunshine and your day started to turn around?
You have the power to be the sun for someone who is beneath a dark cloud. Whether the cloud is relationship- or health-related, discouragement, dissolution, or a sense of being lost, you can be that ray of sunshine in their life today.
Would you accept the challenge to reach out to someone today? To be a bit of sunshine in their life? Through your small action, they will know that they are not alone.
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand” (Isaiah 41:10, NLT).
A reminder that every minute of every day, thousands come to WGTS to receive that ray of sunshine into their heart, but we can’t reach everyone, we cannot do it alone, we need your help. Would you be the hope someone needs today? Send a quick note or text message. Give someone a call and brighten up their day. Be a part of their turnaround.
Highlights
of 2024
365 Verse of the Day to encourage and inspire listeners
439 children sponsored with Compassion International 1,279 bottles of laundry detergent for 78,000 loads of laundry 1,688 1,000
Health Tips at 7:40 a.m. on Wednesdays with an Adventist HealthCare professional 52
230 Bibles
distributed at events
hours of life-changing programming 8,760
2099 Gaither Road, Suite 105
Rockville, MD 20850
202.902.6000
wgts919.com
Midday Host Becky Alignay
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You can find the Verse of the Day on our website, the app, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. prayers prayed by listeners for other listeners on When We Pray since we began the ministry in 2011
—Kevin Krueger, President and CEO
VISITOR ADVERTISING AND SERVICES n The Visitor does not guarantee the integrity of any product or service advertised and does not accept responsibility for typographical or categorical errors. For advertising guidelines and rates, visit columbiaunionvisitor.com/advertising.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
BLUE MOUNTAIN ACADEMY
ALUMNI WEEKEND IS APRIL 25–27, 2025, celebrating alumni from Lake Ariel, Philadelphia Academy 1955, and Blue Mountain Academy Honor Classes of 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2000, 2015, 2020. Speaker for the divine service is Mark Youngberg (’75), pastor of the Calvary Road Community church in Cass County, Michigan. The annual Alumni Association Business meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, in the Appalachian Room. For updates on Alumni Weekend, visit the alumni section on Blue Mountain Academy’s website or contact your class agent.
EMPLOYMENT
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY:
The Department of Biology is looking for a Ph.D.-trained biologist to fill a tenure-track position, beginning fall 2025. The successful candidate will demonstrate capacity for effective college biology teaching, productive scholarship, good interpersonal skills and commitment to the integration of faith and learning.
Seeks qualified Seventh-day Adventists to fill open roles in fulfilling our mission to Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith, and Change the World.
Visit andrews.edu/jobs for our current openings.
SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY continuously seeks qualified candidates to fill various positions around campus, including faculty, salaried staff and hourly staff positions. If you are interested in working at Southern, we encourage you to view the positions that are currently open at sau.catsone.com/careers and apply as God leads. To view current open educational positions Pre-K through college across the North American Division, please visit jobs.adventisteducation.org.
process for prospective students, guiding them from initial interest to enrollment.
Seeks Radiography Clinical Coordinator. Coordinates clinical education and evaluate its effectiveness, correlating clinical education with didactic education.
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meeting scheduling and document preparation. Interested candidates can apply at wau.edu.
MISCELLANEOUS
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY:
Seeks qualified applicants for Office Coordinator for the Physician Assistant Program. This is a full-time, non-exempt position with excellent benefits, including tuition assistance for dependents. This role supports the program director and clinical coordinator, serves as a liaison between students and faculty, assists with event and meeting planning, and other duties.
Seeks qualified candidates for the position of Vice President for Financial Administration (VPFA). The VPFA aligns institutional resources to achieve the university’s mission, vision and strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate will have 7+ years of managerial accounting and financial management experience and a degree in Accounting, Finance or Business. CPA or CMA preferred, but not required. Excellent benefits package and tuition assistance for dependents included.
Seeks candidates for two nursing faculty positions. These are full-time exempt positions with a start date of 6/1/2025. Responsible for preparing undergraduate students to successfully complete Union’s BSN curriculum and pass the National Council State Boards of Nursing Examination. Excellent benefit package that includes tuition assistance for dependents.
See full job descriptions and instructions for application at uau.edu/employment, or contact Megan Heidtbrink at megan.heidtbrink@uau.edu for more information.
WASHINGTON ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY:
Seeks Instructional Faculty for Biology Program (full-time). Teaches majors and non-majors undergraduate biology and chemistry courses.
Seeks Admissions Recruiter. Manages the recruitment
Seeks Director of Student Financial Aid. Manages financial aid compliance, and performs fund management functions for Title IV, state programs and select institutional funds.
Seeks Student Support Specialist. Works collaboratively with the Registrar’s Office and the university to ensure maximum new student registration efficiencies.
Seeks Nursing Clinical Coordinator. Coordinates and arranges clinical experiences that meet the educational requirements for students in all programs within the Nursing Department.
Seeks Enrollment Specialist. Manages the recruitment process for prospective students for the school of graduate and professional studies.
Seeks Director of Library. Oversees library operations, staff management, budgeting and policy formulation to support academic needs.
Seeks Financial Aid Advisor. Assists students with financial aid processes, eligibility determination and counseling on payment options.
Seeks International and Transfer Advisor/Primary Designated School Official. Guides international and transfer students through enrollment processes and immigration regulations compliance.
Seeks Instructional Faculty for Computer Science Program (full-time). Provides instruction and work for the growth of its program.
Seeks Instructional Faculty for Nursing Department. Plans, delivers and evaluates classroom instruction and performs other duties.
Seeks Undergraduate Nursing Academic Coach, Remediation Specialist, and Nursing Professor. Supports students in academic performance improvement and progression within the Nursing program.
Seeks Executive Assistant to the President. Coordinates administrative functions for the president’s office, including
NEW BOOK AVAILABLE! The First Nativity Pageant in Heaven: A Martyr’s Happy Ending. Discover the inspiring true story of Lizzie Atwater, who died a martyr back in 1900 while nearly nine months pregnant. The book’s second half is the author’s imagined happy ending for her and her baby. Order your copy today at 1ref.us/a9456974 or call the publisher at (706) 504-9192.
BOOK YOUR TRIP ON ‘FLIGHT 3:16,’ an exciting VBS program from It Is Written. During “Flight 3:16,” children will visit five countries as they prepare for the ultimate destination— heaven! “Flight 3:16” is a complete VBS kit that includes supplies for 14 children. Learn more at flight316.fun or call (888) 664-5573.
FOLLOW MY BLOG, paulsbookwords.com, where I review Christian books and share others of interest. After working for the Adventist Book Center for 45 years, I’ve learned a thing or two of what makes a great book. Follow me to get new content delivered directly to your inbox.
CONSIDERING RURAL LIVING?
Explore Greeneville, Tenn. Located near the Smoky Mountains, Greeneville Adventist Academy has an accredited K-12 Adventist day school program, supported by two constituent churches, prioritizing the Bible, evangelism, mission trips, academics and a high-quality music program (voice, band, bells and strings). Visit mygaa. org, or call (423) 639-2011.
FREE APP! Discover stellar faith-building, Bible-based and Christ-centered radio programs for all ages. LifeTalk Radio streams all music at LifeTalkMusic.net and awesome kids’ programs at LifeTalkKids.net or listen to talk radio at: LifeTalk.net. Download our handy free app from: LifeTalk.net.
REAL ESTATE
SCENIC HOME ON 26 ACRES: 3 bedroom, 2 full bath, 4 open door garage/pole building. Goat/sheep shelter. Solar water heater back up. Back deck and front porch. Secluded and beautiful area, one mile off route 50 in Wood County, West Virginia. $420,000.00. Call (304) 588-6902.
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CENTRAL FLORIDA LUXURY
ON A BUDGET. Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath newly updated, fully furnished end unit on townhouse in quiet, historic Haines City, Fla. Sandy beach waterfront. Hospitals, major highways and attractions readily accessible. $2,200/month includes TV, Wi-Fi and utilities. Perfect for families/couples. Call Neal at (703) 850-6194 or email info@fairfaxvending.com.
PRIVATE ROOM AND BATH and living/cooking area available in home of elderly mom in Thurmont, Md. Looking for retiree(s) or single person who would be available to sit with Mom sometimes too. Call for more details: (301) 304-1336.
DON’T JUST RETIRE! Live with purpose at Fletcher Park Inn. An Independent Living Retirement Community, located on the campus of Fletcher Academy near Hendersonville, N.C. Join our family, take part in the many opportunities for staying active, volunteering, making new friends and living with a purpose. Call (828) 209-6930 or visit fletcherparkinn.com to find out more about our apartment and villa homes.
FLORIDA LIVING RETIREMENT
COMMUNITY: Independent living on 13.5 acres near Orlando, sunny beaches, golf courses, shopping areas and medical care. All renovated ground-level units. Florida Conference-owned facility. Call (407) 862-2646 or visit floridalivingretirement.com.
SERVICES
SMILE BRIGHT AND EXPLORE
BEAUTIFUL ART AT TECHN Ē
DENTAL. Looking for a caring, highly experienced dentist? Dr. Ernest Ponraj offers top-notch dental care in a welcoming environment. Whether you need a routine checkup or more advanced treatments, you’ll be in expert hands. But that’s not all! Ponraj also owns an exclusive art gallery, showcasing stunning works from artists around the globe. Located at 4 Taft Court, Suite #150, Rockville, MD 20850. Mention this ad to receive a discount on services. Call (301) 598-7800 or visit technedentalgallery.com.
MARYLAND ADVENTIST
DENTIST, DAVID LEE, DDS, FAGD, AFAAID, FICOI, FAACP, has practices located in Silver Spring and Columbia, Md. He is extensively trained in implant, cosmetic, TMD/
TMJ, sleep apnea treatment, sedation and laser dentistry. Associate fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, as well as many other certifications. Call (301) 649-5001 or (410) 461-6655. Mention this ad and receive 10% discount on all services, excluding third-party payers. We welcome new patients!
MOVE with an award-winning agency. Apex Moving and Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves at a discounted rate. Adventist beliefs uncompromised. Call Marcy Dante at (800) 766-1902 for a free estimate on your relocation needs. Visit apexmoving.com/ adventist.
ELTERNHAUS ASSISTED
LIVING, Adventist familyowned and -operated, provides specialized care for seniors in a family homestyle setting. Delicious vegetarian food, activities, Friday night vespers and a shuttle to church Sabbath morning. Visit elternhausalf.com.
TEACH SERVICES HELPING
AUTHORS: Publish your book, including editing, design, marketing and worldwide distribution. Visit TEACHServices. com to submit your manuscript for a free evaluation, or call (800) 367-1844. Also, shop for new/used Adventist books at TEACHServices.com or at your local ABC.
PATH OF LIFE HEALING CENTER DETOX RETREATS
offer a well-established retreat program focusing on detox and wellness. The 10-day healing retreat is a valuable opportunity for those looking to address health challenges and improve their lifestyle. With 28 years of experience in helping people avoid or reverse disease, there is a solid track record. Call (301) 377-4523 or visit pathoflifehealing.com/ lifestyle-retreats.
OBITUARIES
CEROVSKI, Peter Edward, born Oct. 31, 1930; died Sept. 27, 2024, in Richmond, Va. “Ed” graduated from Mount Vernon Academy (’50) before being called to service in the United States Army where he served as a combat medic during the Korean War and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant (T). After returning from Korea, he attended Washington Missionary College in Takoma Park, Md., graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Teaching. Ed served
as teacher and principal for several years in Seventh-day Adventist elementary schools in Ohio before moving to Maryland where he continued working for the church at the Review and Herald Publishing Association in Hagerstown, Md., completing a total of 35 years of service to the church including work at the Review and Herald in Takoma Park. Ed is preceded in death by his parents George Cerovski and Agnes (Ladisic) Cerovski; sister, Angela Knickerbocker; and brother, George Cerovski. He is survided by his wife of 68 years, Sammie Drexel (Ferrell) Cerovski; son, Peter Edward Cerovski, II (Miranda); daughter, Melisa Jane Heber (Walton); three grandchildren, Renee De Shay (Orion), Nathan Cerovski and Mirko Heber; great-grandson, Dario De Shay; sisters, Mary Reinhold and Victoria Carlton, as well as many nieces and nephews.
PELLEY, Lester D., born Apr. 11, 1942, in St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada; died July 10, 2024, in Madison, Wis. Lester was a member of the Madison East church. He graduated cum laude from Atlantic Union College (Mass.) in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in
Accounting. On June 10, 1969, he married Judith Darlene Ball Pelley, whom he met in college. They celebrated 55 years of marriage in 2024. Lester’s career spanned 43 years in various financial administration roles for Seventh-day Adventist institutions, including Atlantic Union College and the Pennsylvania Conference. One of his greatest satisfactions was mentoring and befriending the many college students who worked in his departments. Lester was active in his local church in the Pennsylvania Conference, serving as treasurer for 17 years. Lester was predeceased in death by siblings Olive, Sylvia, Ralph and niece Jeannine. He is survived by his wife, Judith; son Douglas S. Pelley (Ingrid Satelmajer); daughter Elaine M. Pelley (Benjamin Shoemaker); and four grandchildren.
RUFFCORN, John D., born May 1, 1927, in Minneapolis, Minn.; died Aug. 29, 2024, in Loma Linda, Calif. John was a member of the Sanitarium church—now part of the Takoma Park (Md.) church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Jean Ruffcorn. He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Dolinsky, and two granddaughters.
Sunset Calendar
Sunset times listed below are for the cities in which our conference headquarters reside. Mar 7 Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28
