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
Contract Copy Editor n Beth Thomas
Contract Proofreader n Lisa Krueger
EDITORS
CONTRIBUTING
Allegheny East n LaTasha Hewitt, visitaec.com
Allegheny West n Anthony Chornes II, 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 Katie Kimball, 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
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
CONTACT n (410) 997-3414 n visitor@columbiaunion.net visitoradvertising@columbiaunion.net n columbiaunionvisitor.com
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CO LUMB IA UN IO N CO NFERENCE
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.
About the Cover: Geneva McCallum, a member of Pennsylvania Conference’s Clearfield church, proves it’s never too late to become a missionary. Photo by Pamela Anticole.
timothy harley
Can’t Kick the Mission Bug
Mission service transforms lives! I’ve experienced it firsthand.
I wasn’t fortunate enough to attend Seventh-day Adventist schools, but after accepting the Adventist message at the age of 20, I responded to God’s call to serve Him. Now, for more than 20 years, I have had the distinct privilege to teach at Adventist schools and lead youth in Christian service. I recently tried to retire, but found it too difficult to give up taking youth on mission trips. The joy and fulfillment it brings to my heart are too rewarding to leave behind.
Teenagers are up for adventure—adventure that takes them all over the world, where they experience diverse cultures, learn new skills and make lifelong memories.
As Ellen White puts it, “All who engage in ministry are God’s helping hand. There is no line of work in which it is possible for the youth to receive greater benefit. They are co-workers with the angels; … As a means of education, what ‘university course’ can equal this? With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Savior might be carried to the world!” (Youth’s Instructor, March 3, 1908, par. 4).
“Your next-door neighbor is also your mission field.”
Mission trips have afforded me the opportunity to witness students’ lives change from self-centeredness to self-sacrifice. One time, I learned that a student went on a mission trip to “score drugs,” only to return and testify about the transformation he experienced while serving God and others. He later went on to become an Adventist pastor. On another trip, one student begged to return home, only to be one of the best helpers and attend many more mission trips in college and beyond. Other students—who are now health professionals—gained a vision for their lives after delivering babies in Africa. The list goes on and on: from teachers to builders to career missionaries.
If you have never experienced mission service, I invite you— whether a student, young adult or young at heart—to ask God how He can use your talents for Him. The Adventist Church has numerous agencies that afford involvement, from short-term mission trips at one of Columbia Union Conference’s academies to long-term trips organized by the North American Division’s Office of Volunteer Ministries or the General Conference’s Global Mission Department. And remember, your next-door neighbor is also your mission field.
God wants you to be His hands and feet, His heart and voice.
Timothy Harley, a chaplain emeritus at Shenandoah Valley Academy, continues to lead students on mission trips.
v. michelle bernard
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION?
Seventh-day Adventist members from around the world will gather July 3–12 in St. Louis for the 62nd General Conference (GC) Session, where delegates will fellowship, conduct church business, elect leaders and watch ministry reports from across the globe.
The Visitor will share Columbia Union-focused news, updates and livestreams on its website and social media platforms. For access to news in Spanish, visit columbiaunionvisitor.com.
SIGN UP FOR GC SESSION UPDATES
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR for July 2
August 6 at noon, as Columbia Union Conference members gather once again for our monthly dedicated time of prayer for Pentecost 2025. Do you have a prayer request? We’d like to pray for you. Join us on Zoom at both prayer meeting sessions, or connect with us on Facebook and YouTube so that you can be part of this powerful time of prayer.
MEDICAL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
This fall, the Allegheny East and Chesapeake conferences will join forces—with support from It is Written, the North American Division and the Columbia Union Conference—to host evangelistic meetings in Baltimore. Prior to the meetings, members and volunteers will be working on projects throughout the area to prepare for the event.
One of those projects is a free medical clinic September 25, 26 and 28. Licensed medical and non-medical volunteers are needed to help share the love of Christ in Baltimore. View the full list of volunteer positions and learn how you can volunteer by scanning the QR code.
“Health care gives us an opportunity to interact with the community like no other ministry.”
—John Sackett, president and CEO of Adventist HealthCare, at the May Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee meeting
IS YOUR CHURCH DIGITALLY READY?
With an increased emphasis on outreach and evangelism this year, it’s important for your church’s online and social media presence to be informative and inviting to newcomers. Adventist Young Professionals (AYP) has developed a free marketing guide, available now for download.
According to the guide, “Your website is the front door of your church. It should paint an authentic and welcoming picture of your church’s culture and should communicate the ministries and services you provide the community. Additionally, it should serve as a hub for relevant, inspirational and impactful content that benefits the members of your church and community.”
Find out more at ayp.me.
“It’s not about us; it’s all about Jesus. … Every church in the union should be a place where people feel loved.”
—Marcellus
T. Robinson, Columbia Union Conference president, during his report at the May Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee meeting
Visit columbiaunionvisitor.com/upfront for the extended stories.
UpFront
BUILD THAT MUSCLE
Trends promoting meat as a superior source of protein may be leading some to reevaluate their long-held beliefs on veganism. However, a recent study has found that vegan proteins can be just as effective in supporting muscle growth as meat-based proteins when consumed in the appropriate quantities.
On Loma Linda University Health’s website, Andrew Mock, MD, MPH, who is also a competitive weightlifter, shares the following vegan or whole food protein options: tofu, beans (black, kidney and lentils), chickpeas, quinoa, chia seeds, flaxseeds, nut butters, eggs, fish (salmon, tuna and cod), Greek yogurt, cottage cheese and milk.
COLUMBIA UNION MEMBER TO LEAD OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
Gina Brown, an Allegheny East Conference member who served on the Columbia Union Conference Executive Committee for nine years, is leaving her position at Howard University (D.C.) this summer to become president of Oakwood University (Ala.). At the May executive committee meeting, the Columbia Union officers expressed appreciation for her many years of service on the committee.
COMMUNICATE BETTER
Seventh-day Adventists have a beautiful message of hope and grace, but are we sharing it clearly? If you’re interested in honing your internal and external communication skills for your local church, school or ministry, consider attending the Society of Adventist Communicators Convention, October 16–18, in La Sierra, Calif. To receive an early bird discount, register by August 6 at adventistcommunicator.com.
Columbia Union Announces 2025 Educators of the Year
The Columbia Union Conference Office of Education recently recognized five educators with the Outstanding Educator of the Year award.
“Our outstanding educators have touched hearts and transformed lives this past year,” says Ruth Nino, associate director for elementary education at the Columbia Union, who oversaw the awards. “Their nurturing faith shaped the spiritual, emotional and character development of their students in meaningful and lasting ways. With grace and dedication, they modeled Christ-centered leadership, created inclusive and compassionate classrooms, and inspired a love for service, integrity and lifelong learning—hallmarks of Adventist education.”
The following are the five educators who were awarded for their outstanding service:
Administrator:
Kim Myers, principal and grades 1–4 teacher at Ohio Conference’s Mount Vernon Elementary School
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Educator: Deborah Robinson, Pre-K and kindergarten teacher at Allegheny East Conference’s Baltimore Junior Academy
Elementary Educator: Stacy Blanzy, a middle school teacher at Mountain View Conference’s Highland Adventist School in Elkins, W.Va.
Secondary Educator: Paty Serrano, STEM coordinator and science teacher at Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville Adventist Academy (Md.)
New Educator: Nick Lawrence, social studies teacher at Spencerville Adventist Academy
Kids, Corner
A ‘MOUNTAIN OF MIRACLES’
This summer, learn about God’s love for you through the story of Elijah and the promise found in Isaiah 41:30.
Each night, you’ll discover how God can protect and help you. You will also enjoy music, crafts, games and healthy snacks. You’ll even experience Bible stories come to life through interactive storytelling. See for yourself why God’s love is rock solid!
Attend a “Mountain of Miracles” Vacation Bible School (VBS) at a church near you, and bring a friend!
TAKE A TRIP TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION • This July, families from around the world are heading to the General Conference Session. They will see how Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders are chosen, explore fun booths in the exhibition hall, see old friends (and maybe make some new ones) and visit the city of St. Louis, Missouri. How many of the following items can you find in this coloring page? □ Globe □ Vote Ballot Box □ Suitcase □ Microphone □ The State Outline □ A National Monument
Noticias
v. michelle bernard
¿ESE ES UN MISIONERO?
Si bien aún existen oportunidades de servicio misionero tradicionales, como maestro, pastor o trabajador de la salud, “tenemos muchas vacantes en todo tipo de industrias y habilidades”, dice Leah Jordache, directora asociado de Office of Volunteer Ministries de la North American Division. “Ahora puedes ser especialista en redes sociales. Puedes encargarte de proyectos especiales para cualquier cosa relacionada con la tecnología o la producción”. Encuentra oportunidades actuales en hesaidgo.org.
El número de ancianos y sus cónyuges que participaron en un evento reciente de capacitación de la New Jersey Conference para preparar a los miembros para dirigir reuniones de evangelización durante el Pentecostés 2025.
SIGA LAS NOTICIAS DEL CONGRESO DE LA GENERAL CONFERENCE
Miembros de la Iglesia Adventista del Séptimo Día de todo el mundo se reunirán del 3 al 12 de julio en St. Louis para el 62.º Congreso de la General Conference. Allí, los delegados se reunirán, tratarán asuntos de la iglesia, elegirán líderes y verán informes ministeriales de todo el mundo. El Columbia Union Visitor compartirá noticias actualizadas en inglés en su sitio web y redes sociales. Para acceder a noticias y transmisiones en vivo en español, visite columbiaunionvisitor.com.
UN MIEMBRO DE LA COLUMBIA UNION DIRIGIRÁ OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
Este verano, Gina Brown, miembro de la Allegheny East Conference y miembro del Comité Ejecutivo de la Columbia Union Conference durante nueve años, deja su puesto en Howard University (D.C.) para convertirse en presidenta de Oakwood University (Alabama). En la reunión de mayo del Comité Ejecutivo, los directivos de la Columbia Union agradecieron a Brown por su participación como miembro del comité ejecutivo.
La Columbia Union anuncia a los Educadores del Año 2025
Columbia Union Conference Office of Education reconoció recientemente a cinco educadores con el premio al Educador Destacado del Año.
“Nuestros educadores destacados han tocado corazones y transformado vidas este último año”, afirma Ruth Nino, directora asociada de educación primaria de la Columbia Union.
Su fe nutritiva moldeó el desarrollo espiritual, emocional y del carácter de sus estudiantes de maneras significativas y duraderas. Con gracia y dedicación, modelaron un liderazgo centrado en Cristo, crearon aulas inclusivas y compasivas, e inspiraron el amor por el servicio, la integridad y el aprendizaje permanente, sellos distintivos de la educación adventista.
Los siguientes son los cinco educadores que fueron premiados por su servicio destacado:
Administrador:
Kim Myers, directora y maestra de 1.º a 4.º grado en la Mount Vernon Adventist Elementary School de la Ohio Conference.
Educador de la Primera Infancia (ECE):
Deborah Robinson, maestra de preescolar y kínder en la Baltimore Junior Academy de la Allegheny East Conference.
Educación Primaria: Stacy Blanzy, maestra de la Highland Adventist School de la Mountain View Conference in Elkins, W.Va.
Educación Preparatoria: Paty Serrano, coordinadora de STEM y maestra de ciencias en la Spencerville Adventist Academy (Md.) de la Chesapeake Conference.
Para más historias en español, visite columbiaunionvisitor.com/noticias.
Nuevo: Nick Lawrence, maestro de ciencias sociales en la Spencerville Adventist Academy.
Educador
MAKING MINISTRY POSSIBLE
Atholton Adventist Academy Columbia, MD
Mission Possible Fund – Impact on Our Week of Prayer
Thanks to the generous support from the Mission Possible Fund, our school’s Week of Prayer was a transformative experience for our students. The funds allowed us to bring in a dynamic speaker, Pastor Erwin Nanasi, who delivered engaging, age-appropriate messages tailored to our students’ spiritual growth. His powerful storytelling and relatable illustrations helped students understand the importance of pressing onward in their faith.
A key highlight was the emphasis on personal worth in Christ. We are grateful for the Mission Possible Fund’s role in making this experience possible. Thank you for investing in the spiritual growth of our students!
This Week of Prayer was unlike any we’ve had before. The messages really stuck with our students, especially the pizza box illustration. Seeing their excitement and deep conversations afterward showed how meaningful it was. The experience was a blessing for our school community!”
– Miya Kim, Principal
Since 1968, the Columbia Union Revolving Fund (CURF) has been providing low-interest loans and financing for Seventh-day Adventist Church and school building and renovating projects so as to facilitiate growth. What started as a $200,000 fund with investments from members has grown to a $182 million resource that makes ministry possible. By providing loans for more than 2,000 projects to date, CURF has helped further the work of the Seventh-day Adventist Church all across the Columbia Union.
This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy securities. Any offer to sell securities issued by CURF is made only through its Offering Circular. No one should consider any investment in CURF Notes other than by careful reference to the Offering Circular. Neither FDIC, SIPC nor any other government agency guarantees or insures repayment of CURF Notes.
By Tompaul Wheeler
What does it mean to be a missionary today?
Not all mission work involves building something or preaching. Missionaries serve at various ages and locations, at home and abroad. But the missionary mindset remains consistent. What is this mindset, and how can it transform one’s life?
‘WHAT DROVE ME’
Tim Soper recently finished his 25th year of teaching. As chaplain at Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville Adventist Academy (Md.), Soper says his two years as a missionary in Guam and a year during college as a task force worker shaped his career—and life.
Though Soper had previously gone on shortterm mission trips as an academy student, his first foray into extended mission service was unplanned. After his freshman year at Southern Adventist University (Tenn.), he intended to return to school, but as he recalls, “pretty much all my close friends had decided [to take a gap year] to do a year of mission service.” Working that summer at Camp Au Sable (Mich.), he says, “One of the adult workers there pestered me: ‘You should apply.’ I had no intention of doing so. [But] I ended up putting my name in and going out to Dakota Adventist Academy (N.D).”
“It’s important to be able to see how others are experiencing the world,” says Amy Soper, who, with her husband, Tim, served as missionaries in Guam.
Soper now reflects, “That year of serving in a school is what drove me to education. Before that, I had no interest in teaching. I was interested in some kind of ministry, but really didn’t feel the call to be a pastor. Having that experience was kind of a window opening for me. Here was a really neat way to interact and build relationships.”
Soper’s mission experience expanded in 2000. In July of that year, he married Amy, and in August 2000, they moved to Guam.
For the Sopers, two years of teaching in Guam was “a great start to married life. We were able to start with just us,” Tim recalls. “We didn’t have many things holding us down financially or otherwise. And of course, [it was] character-building. You’re relying on one another and God.”
Most of the Guam Adventist Academy students were not Adventists, which stretched the Sopers in profound ways: “The academy was so diverse in beliefs and perspectives, but still an Adventist school,” Amy reflects. “It really helped to develop an awareness of what others believe and recognize that we’re all humans.”
STILL GOING STRONG
At 80 years old, Geneva McCallum, a member of Pennsylvania Conference’s Clearfield church, has
“Mission trips change your thought process about others who live in different countries [and in] different situations,” says Geneva McCallum, pictured on one of her 20-plus mission trips.
participated in 22 mission trips, many of them with family members.
After reading about mission trips in the Adventist Review in the 1990s, McCallum reached out to Maranatha Volunteers International. She joined a group in which she knew no one, building a church in Latin America.
On her earliest trips, McCallum carried a great deal of blocks and poured lots of grout on construction sites. Nowadays, on trips she ties rebar and mostly works on the cleanup crew. The feeling of accomplishment and the group camaraderie she experiences while working with people from different parts of the world draws her back again and again.
“The need is so great! If you did not have volunteers, a lot of these churches and schools would not be built, at least for some time,” says McCallum. “Everybody [is] there to do the same thing, to accomplish a task,” she says, noting the trips also make her more grateful and open toward those who think or do things differently than her. “[You realize] that because you do it this way doesn’t mean someone else has to do it that way. Their way is best for them in their situation, as opposed to me coming and telling people what to do.”
EMBODIED EVANGELISM
Author Charles Mills grew up in the Philippines, Singapore and Lebanon, then spent a year as a student missionary in Osaka, Japan. There he taught conversational English.
“It probably wasn’t quite the cultural shock that it would be for some people,” Mills says. “But being raised in the ‘mission field’ and going to Japan, the skills overlapped beautifully. You learn that these are people; these are individuals who have the same desires, the same goals, the same dreams as I do. Their culture may make those dreams look a little different, but they want life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If you can help them [find this], then you have been a missionary of the highest caliber.”
Mills’ missionary work in Japan was not what many would consider traditional evangelism. “The church in Osaka held evangelistic meetings, and we invited our students, and we also preached,” he says. “But it was not part of the curriculum. We did not talk about God and salvation in the English classes. That was separate. We befriended students, ate out with them, went sightseeing. It wasn’t an evangelism of preaching. We were the evangelism—we embodied it. We were a living, breathing evangelism series for those students. The very fact that you’re there and you’re being kind and doing something for them is an illustration of God’s love for them without having to have a meeting. To me, that is very powerful.”
What Mills learned as a missionary shaped how he approached his career as a communicator. He recalls a favorite story that his mother told him when she found him washing his clothes in a puddle in the Philippines.
THAT’S A MISSIONARY?
While “traditional” service opportunities—like a teacher, pastor or health care worker—still exist, “we have a lot of openings now across all types of industries and skill sets,” says Leah Jordache, associate director of the Office of Volunteer Ministries (OVM) at the North American Division. “Now you can be a social media specialist. You can be a special projects person for anything that has to do with technology or production.” Today’s ‘calls’ also include many urban-based opportunities, like tutoring and mentoring with Adventist Community Services, setting up a café or offering community education.
Interested in being a teacher’s aide in Hawaii, an assistant girls’ dean in Upstate New York, a primary school teacher in Malawi or a summer camp activity staff member in California? Find current long-term missionary opportunities at hesaidgo.org. →
Charles Mills spends time with fellow church members and students while serving as a student missionary in Japan.
Having that mission mind ...
“gives you compassion for people. We may not always understand what is going on in someone’s life, but [we] can show them God’s love and that somebody cares, and I think that’s really important.”
Read Alex Partyka’s story online. →
SPRINGING INTO ACTION
Each school year, high school students from across the Columbia Union Conference participate in short-term mission projects. They serve in a variety of ways, including hosting Vacation Bible Schools, constructing buildings, conducting evangelistic meetings and more! Here is where they served abroad this year:
Atholton Adventist Academy: Peru
Blue Mountain Academy: Mexico and the Philippines
Highland View Academy: Kenya
Lake Nelson Adventist Academy: Costa Rica
Spencerville Adventist Academy: Peru
Spring Valley Academy: Kenya
Shenandoah Valley Academy: Brazil
Tahkai Martin (left), a Shenandoah Valley Academy task force worker who also served as the boys’ junior varsity basketball head coach, is pictured with Aleks Ullrich (’25) and Steven Foote, boys’ varsity head coach.
“That’s what I saw people do, washing their clothes in streams,” he says. “When you come to that point in your missionary experience where you’re no longer looking at people of different cultures as being weird or off-the-wall or strange, and say, ‘That’s just the way they do it,’ I think you’ve made a breakthrough in your own heart. And your ability to communicate and reach other people has grown tremendously.”
DOUBLE-DIPPING
“At the end of this school year at Potomac Conference’s Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA), I will have worked at three different schools as a volunteer dean,” says task force worker Tahkai Martin. “These have been some of the most formative years that have helped me ascertain exactly what I want to do in life: become a full-time dean.”
Martin volunteered at SVA, located in New Market, Va., this past school year. The work stretched him in multiple ways.
“Typically, deans may also double-dip into other areas,” Martin says. “While here at SVA, I also served as the head coach of the junior varsity boys’ basketball team and assistant coach of the varsity boys’ basketball team. This allowed me to forge connections with my students in the dorm—another arena outside of the dorm. It gave me an opportunity to get to know them more, make connections … [teach] lessons of life intricately woven within the dorm, and help them achieve their goals in a specific area of their life. [Much] of what is taught to an athlete translates further than the field of play.”
In August 2025, Martin will begin serving as assistant boys’ dean at Mt. Pisgah Academy (N.C.). “I am extremely humbled and grateful for my experience as a volunteer,” he reflects. “Without these experiences, I would not be able to hear God’s calling on my life. It truly was exactly what I needed, and I urge others to find His voice in serving others.”
Life is all about serving God and others, says Jiwan Moon (far right), chaplain at Washington Adventist University, pictured with the school’s short-term student missionaries and the individuals who served alongside them in Ethiopia.
SHORT-TERM PROJECTS, LONG-TERM IMPACT
Seventh-day Adventist educational institutions and their students have long been dedicated to mission service.
What is now Washington Adventist University (WAU), was formerly called Washington Foreign Missionary Seminary from 1907–1914, and Washington Missionary College from 1942–1961. Regardless of the name, educators there have long sought to train students for a life of service and mission.
WAU sent out its first student missionary (as they are called today) in 1959. However, when Chaplain Jiwan Moon joined the university staff in the 2024–25 academic year, WAU didn’t have any student missionaries who served outside the United States.
Moon has spearheaded the university’s Gideon 300 movement, aimed at reviving both student missions and campus spirituality. “The Lord has blessed,” says Moon, “and we have more than 40 Gideon 300 members who have pledged to live a life of mission and service for God and others.”
In March, Moon led a group of six students on a mission trip to Ethiopia, where they volunteered at several care facilities.
“My time in Ethiopia reshaped my understanding of what it means to serve others,” says WAU student Taurin Euler. “I learned that service is not just about giving, but also about building relationships and learning from those around me. The people I met showed me the power of community, generosity and unwavering faith, even in difficult circumstances.”
And in May, the school held a dedication service for student missionaries headed to El Salvador, Guatemala and Hong Kong—including one student missionary who participated in the Ethiopia trip.
NOT A ‘ONE-HIT WONDER’
Although impactful for participants, short-term mission projects have faced criticism over the years for their “drive-by” nature. Many have suggested that the high costs of such travel could be better invested in local workers who’d receive more tangible benefits.
“I definitely think these trips are worth it, but I think there are more responsible ways to plan and execute them,” says Leah Jordache, associate director of the Office of Volunteer Missionaries (OVM) at the North American Division. “We have a global church, and I think that is one of the unique benefits of being an Adventist. Our whole church organization has a massive networking presence across the globe. We have organizations like ADRA and Adventist Community Services. Working within that system, you’re more likely to have a greater impact that is sustainable, rather than working outside that system, like a ‘one-hit wonder.’ Our main focus is on helping people to see the benefits of longer-term service.”
336
The number of longterm volunteers that were deployed from the North American Division in 2024. During the 1990s–2000s, the Office of Volunteer Ministries sent out more than 500 volunteers a year and hopes that the post-pandemic numbers will continue to grow.
Her office plugs volunteers into both short- and longer-term service opportunities, but is especially keen on extended connections. The OVM’s website, hesaidgo.org, lists both long- and short-term volunteer opportunities.
“With longer-term service, you are spending 10 months or more in place. You have a relationship with that community. How you meet their needs can grow and change, and you can watch them improve their lives over the lifetime of the sustained relationship. It has more depth, more purpose and probably more effectiveness when you’re able to serve long term with an organization that is very familiar with the local community.”
Why do we need missionaries in the 21st century? Jordache answers, “Because the world is full of people who need compassion, guidance and belonging, and people who need Jesus—maybe now more than any other time in history. There’s so much chaos in this world, and missionaries bring an anchor, they bring peace, they bring stability. They bring vision and hope. And we need missionaries because we need people to connect with their own sense of calling. Temporary purpose is OK, but that deep sense of purpose is something that guides your life until your last breath. I think serving as a missionary is one of the best ways to ignite that sense of calling.” V
PLAN A SUCCESSFUL MISSION TRIP
Interested in planning your own short-term mission project with a group? Start by visiting hesaidgo.org. This site can connect you with current needs, opportunities and additional, invaluable resources from Adventist Risk Management and the U.S. Department of State that are essential to protecting missionaries and avoiding unnecessary risks. The site provides checklists for mission trip planning and packing, while also connecting prospective leaders and volunteers with the most up-to-date information. The site also keeps a running list of short- and long-term volunteer opportunities for individuals.→
Students and staff from Shenandoah Valley Academy participate in service and worship with members in Brazil this past spring.
From fires to hurricanes, mass shootings to tornadoes, Adventist Community Services brings hope and relief to disaster survivors.
BY
PHOTO
ABEL ROBLERO
Cedars of Lebanon Youth Plant Garden
The young people at the Cedars of Lebanon church in Chesapeake, Va., recently put their faith into action through a vibrant community garden. As grocery prices rise and food insecurity becomes an increasing concern for many families, the youth responded with a practical solution, rooted in biblical principles of stewardship and service.
The Garden of Hope, carefully tended by young members ranging from elementary school to high school age, now flourishes with an impressive variety of produce, including heirloom and beefsteak tomatoes, sweet peppers in vibrant colors and aromatic herbs, like rosemary, thyme, parsley, cilantro, peppermint and oregano.
Doris Johnson, one of the youth team leaders who initiated the project, did so in honor of her late mother who, when her health was failing due to dementia, would look out of her window at her own garden. “This project brings me closer to her and reminds me that a mother’s love continues to live on through the seeds we plant and nourish,” says Johnson.
The experience of gardening was new for some. “Although it was hard work, it was pretty fun. Seeing the … garden after planting was a great
feeling of accomplishment,” says 19-year-old Trevaughn Winston.
For others, the project provided a sense of community. “I enjoyed planting with everyone because it felt like a team,” shares 10-year-old Denzel Johnson.
“It’s been really cool planting the garden to see what fruit it will bear. Putting in the time and effort has shown us what we can accomplish together,” says 13-year-old Jelani Johnson.
As the Garden of Hope continues to grow, the members of Cedars of Lebanon hope their newly established community garden will not only become a place for growing food but a symbol of hope and resilience.
Josiah, a young boy from the Cedars of Lebanon church, tills soil to cultivate sweet bell peppers.
Hispanic Churches Make Big Impact With Small Groups
Recently, Allegheny East Conference’s (AEC) Spanish-speaking churches in Delaware and Maryland hosted a small group meeting called, “Saving Lives, Multiplying Hope,” to celebrate the birth of small groups. Within the framework of Pentecost 2025 and the “Give Me 5” project— through which each AEC department is tasked with reaching five individuals for God—a program was
developed to facilitate the preparation and commitment of small groups, comprising 10 to 15 members, to carry out this mission.
Ten new small groups were added from the Maryland-based congregations of Greensboro and Easton. These groups joined already established small groups in Maryland and Delaware, totaling 36 small groups. At the celebration, Ramón Escalante, coordinator of AEC’s Spanish Ministry of Churches, shared the Word of God, followed by a prayer for each small group and their families (pictured).
Later, group leaders gave testimonies, participated in a parade and shared their baptism goals of 100 people. The program concluded with the installation of the new small group leaders, who received “birth certificates” to commemorate the occasion.
“All of our churches are ... experiencing the blessings of small groups,” shares Escalante, “which is more than a missionary strategy—it’s a lifestyle.”
Prentis Park Starts Video Visitation Ministry for Inmates
Prentis Park (Va.) church will now be a site where families of inmates can interact virtually with their incarcerated loved ones. The church’s Prison Ministries Department recently partnered with Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) and the Virginia State Department of Corrections to launch a Video Visitation Center on the church grounds.
The church prepared to host the center by recruiting volunteers to remodel and install the necessary technology equipment. Once completed, members and volunteers, including Cecil Williams, pastor of Prentis Park, and Clifton Joyner, church elder and the Virginia Chapter president of Allegheny East Conference’s (AEC) Prison Ministries, received training from AFOI staff members. They were given a history of the Video Visitation program; a summary of the volunteer application process, responsibilities and information; and an overview of visitation scheduling, fees, equipment and center procedures.
In addition to Prentis Park’s traditional prison ministry, Behind-the-Bars, which includes Sabbath School, worship services and Bible studies for inmates, as well as its ongoing local community service and Angel Tree outreach to families, the church now joins a sisterhood of 10 centers across Virginia that open their doors to community families each weekend for video visits. This ministry is available to individuals housed in any of the Virginia Department of Corrections facilities. Prentis Park is the first AEC church to offer this form of ministry. The church’s
Clifton Joyner, a church elder at Prentis Park and the Virginia Chapter president of Allegheny East Conference’s Prison Ministries, opens the training with prayer.
location on the heavily traveled Hampton Roads/ Tidewater corridor in Portsmouth makes it uniquely positioned to serve not only the surrounding communities but out-of-state tourists with incarcerated loved ones within its borders.
Organized in the 1970s, AFOI has evolved to include family and children’s support programs, bus transportation for statewide in-person visits, video visitation centers and in-home video visits. While the visitation center ministry is currently only available in Virginia, the hope is that other communities will be inspired to develop similar programs or transportation for in-person facility visits.
The center will initially be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first and third Sundays of each month. The goal is to have 10 volunteers scheduled to work during center hours.
“We are thankful to God for opening the door for this exciting phase of prison ministry,” says Margaret Joyner, Virginia Chapter secretary of AEC’s Prison Ministries.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July 6–20: Camp Danny Davis, Allegheny East Conference Campgrounds
July 25–27: Men’s Weekend Retreat, Allegheny East Conference Campgrounds
Allegheny East Exposé is published in the Visitor by the Allegheny East Conference n P. O. Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548 Phone: (610) 326-4610 n visitaec.com n President, Trevor Kinlock n Editor, LaTasha Hewitt
PHOTO BY CAMILLE LEWIS
PHOTO BY SHERRY URIG
Representatives from Assisting Families of Inmates train Charlene Wright (right), secretary of Allegheny East Conference’s Prison Ministries Federation, on the inmate Video Visitation program.
Conference Trains Leaders on Alive in Jesus Curriculum
In May, the Allegheny West Conference (AWC) Children’s Ministries Department sponsored and hosted the Alive in Jesus Sabbath School training for the Kindergarten and Primary divisions. This training was specifically designed for Children’s Ministries leaders, Sabbath School teachers and anyone who has a heart for reaching children in their churches and communities. More than 130 attendees gathered to gain tools to revitalize the Children’s Ministries in their respective churches.
Featured guest presenters included Sherri Uhrig, the North American Division Children’s Ministries director, Gerry Lopez, associate director, and their team. Tanya Muganda, AWC Children’s Ministries director, encouraged attendees to “surrender to God. … Training children is not a one-day event but an ongoing process,” she said.
The training explored how to teach the 28 fundamental beliefs, the importance of storytelling, fostering a sense of belonging, classroom framework and how to successfully combine Kindergarten- and Primary-level classes.
Children’s Ministries educators stand with Tanya Muganda (back row, center), Allegheny West Conference’s Children’s Ministries director.
New Ethan Temple Pastor, New Ministry Challenge
The Ethan Temple church congregation—located in Clayton, Ohio—warmly welcomed Pastor Gregory Johnson during his recent installation. Johnson discovered his fervor for evangelism early in his Christian experience. His journey began with a simple church invitation by a Seventh-day Adventist young woman. He accepted Jesus at the age of 19 and was baptized by Ivan Williams, the Ministerial director for the North American Division. One year after his baptism, Johnson took part in his first evangelistic effort as a Bible worker, resulting in one individual accepting Christ—an experience that confirmed his call to ministry. He later earned a Master of Divinity degree from Andrews University (Mich.).
Present at the service was the former Ayanna Scott, the young woman who invited Johnson to church many years ago. She is now his wife of more than 26 years.
Marvin C. Brown, III, Allegheny West Conference (AWC) president, shared, “We are very excited about the gifts and talents that Pastor Johnson and his wife bring to Ethan Temple.”
Brown also praised Johnson as a servant-leader who embraces a collaborative approach, striving to involve every member with core church values of evangelism, discipleship and spiritual growth.
Joel Johnson, AWC executive vice president, then prayed as he and the Ethan Temple church elders laid hands on the Johnsons (pictured). The prayer included a special appeal for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, divine power and guidance to reach every home and community, leading people into a saving relationship with the Lord.
During the newly installed pastor’s sermon, he touched on AWC’s preparation for Pentecost 2025: “Love demands [that] the people of God be inconvenienced. We need God to give us holy sensitivity.”
—Camille Lewis, Communication Director
Youth Conference Empowers Next Generation
The Allegheny West Conference (AWC) Youth Department recently hosted a Youth Leadership Conference, creating a transformative space where the Holy Spirit moved through the energy, passion and leadership of the young people. This multi-day event brought together youth from across the conference for spiritual renewal, hands-on training and moments of worship and fellowship.
Guest presenter Charles Blythe shares practical ways youth can get involved in church media— highlighting simple but impactful roles that make a difference in ministry.
What made this conference so impactful wasn’t just the dynamic preaching or the vibrant drumline tournament—it was witnessing the youth take the lead in every facet of the experience. From hosting, worship leading and sermon delivery to media production and technology coordination, young leaders were at the forefront. Even when challenges arose— such as unexpected technical issues—the youth pivoted with professionalism, creativity and poise.
The event featured a lineup of dynamic speakers who poured into the lives of youth and leaders alike. These speakers brought energy, experience and deep spiritual insight, helping set the tone for a weekend filled with vision and purpose. With support from leaders across the North American Division, their presentations empowered both English- and Spanish-speaking attendees, creating an inclusive experience for all.
A standout feature of this year’s conference was its commitment to linguistic and cultural unity. Worship songs and presentations were offered in
both English and Spanish, with slides, texts and announcements fully bilingual. Mentors and leaders seamlessly addressed the audience in both languages, making everyone feel valued and seen—whether they were fluent in either language.
Breakout sessions throughout the weekend provided youth with tools to lead in their local churches. Topics included sermon development, storytelling, worship leadership and church technology. Young people not only had the opportunity to learn how to lead but also understand why it matters.
One of the major highlights was the Pathfinder Drum Corps tournament, where several AWC teams showcased their skills in a friendly, high-energy competition. This included a special exhibition match against the acclaimed Oakwood University Drumline. But beyond competition, this was a moment of mentorship. Oakwood’s drummers offered hands-on coaching to AWC youth, helping refine their techniques and boost their confidence.
This event was more than just a conference—it was a living example of the power of youth-led ministry. Organizers agree that the AWC is blessed to have witnessed such a rising generation of leaders prepared to serve today.
Jamal Franklyn, Allegheny West Conference youth director, and his wife, Evelyn, join Armando Miranda, Jr., associate director for Youth and Young Adult Ministries at the North American Division, as they pray for the next generation of young disciples.
A Good Day To Go Fishing
While not everyone has the gift of evangelism, at least in the traditional sense of the word (preaching an evangelistic series or conducting a prophecy seminar), anyone who takes the name of Jesus Christ as their personal Savior is, indeed, an evangelist. A transformed life—one that follows in the footsteps of Jesus—is a tangible, powerful testimony to others about God’s plan of redemption. As it often has been observed, living for Jesus is one of the best ways to point someone to Him and a wonderful example of true discipleship. Living for Jesus leads us to walk in love, the very foundation of His teachings. When we allow love to guide our actions and decisions, we reflect the character of Christ in our lives, attributing value and dignity to everyone we meet. Thus, love becomes a powerful tool for transformation for both us and the world around us.
As many of our churches are currently conducting meetings or planning outreach programs and evangelistic series this coming fall, let us not walk into the trap of thinking that evangelism is just an occasional event that is best conducted by professional evangelists, pastors and Bible workers. Let us, instead, recognize that people are most effectively drawn to Jesus any time of the year by those who know Him. So, if you do not have the gift of preaching, then personally invite someone to come with you to hear someone who does. And show them, by your kindhearted spirit and Christlike attitude, what someone who lives in and for Jesus looks and acts like. After all, isn’t that what Jesus meant when He said to His prospective disciples, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men” (Mark 1:17, NKJV)? Well, today looks like a good day to go fishing!
Jerry Lutz President
Prayer Conference Focuses on Evangelism
Chesapeake Conference recently held the Reach Baltimore Prayer Conference at the Baltimore-White Marsh church, where Pavel Goia, associate ministerial director for the General Conference and editor of Ministry magazine, served as the featured speaker.
The weekend event—held Friday evening and Sabbath afternoon—combined powerful preaching, group activities and extended seasons of prayer for ongoing evangelistic efforts in Baltimore. Goia’s presentations emphasized that the primary purpose
of prayer is to connect with God and that “praying without ceasing” means living in continual connection with Him. He also addressed the relationship between prayer and church growth, offering practical insights on how churches can develop intentional prayer strategies for evangelism and soul winning.
“What stood out to me was the number of people who came on Friday night and stayed all day Sabbath afternoon,” says David Klinedinst, Chesapeake Conference Evangelism and Church Growth director. “It was deeply inspiring to see people praying together in groups throughout the sanctuary.”
The prayer conference was part of the Chesapeake Conference’s ongoing Reach Baltimore 2025 initiative, which aims to share the three angels’ messages across the city through a yearlong series of evangelistic programs, culminating in a major outreach series in October. Reach Baltimore is being conducted in partnership with the Allegheny East Conference and It Is Written.
Pavel Goia, associate ministerial director for the General Conference, speaks during the Reach Baltimore Prayer Conference.
Methodist Church Hosts Adventist Prophecy Series
Last year’s evangelism-focused camp meeting produced an unexpected outcome: A local Methodist pastor invited the Chesapeake Conference to present a prophecy series at his church in Frederick, Md.
When members of the Jackson Chapel United Methodist Church responded to public advertisements and visited the camp meeting to tour the Messiah’s Mansion exhibit, they received flyers promoting the evening evangelistic meetings with speaker and evangelist Mark Finley. They shared the flyers with their pastor, Rex Bowens Sr., who immediately contacted the Chesapeake Conference’s Evangelism Department to explore the possibility of hosting a similar prophecy series at his church.
Months of planning and relationship-building culminated in a five-night prophecy series in May, presented by David Klinedinst, Chesapeake Conference Evangelism and Growth director, and John Rengifo, Chesapeake ministerial director. The series focused on laying a foundation for understanding Bible prophecy.
The meetings were well received by the Methodist members. Attendees came prepared with their Bibles and took extensive notes, expressing strong interest and enthusiasm in the subjects covered.
Rex Bowens Sr. (center), a local Methodist pastor, hosts a prophecy series at his church, presented by David Klinedinst (left), Chesapeake Conference Evangelism and Growth director, and John Rengifo, Chesapeake ministerial director.
“At a time when some within the ministry appear to publicly question and seek to cast doubt on our prophetic message, others are interested and hungry for more,” says Rengifo.
Klinedinst said the meetings were a testimony to what God can do. “Some people may question the expense of doing evangelism at camp meeting, but then you see opportunities like this—a Methodist church inviting us to hold a prophecy series—and it shows the impact that’s possible,” he says.
Salisbury Churches Partner for Outreach
Four Chesapeake Conference churches in Salisbury, Md., recently partnered for a community outreach initiative called “El Amor Llegó” (“Love is Here”). Members from the Salisbury Spanish, Salisbury City Redención, Chesapeake Haitian and Beacon of Light churches gathered for bimonthly
outreach efforts this spring to connect with their community in preparation for the Pentecost 2025 evangelistic meetings.
The goal of the initiative was to raise awareness of the churches’ presence, share a message of hope and friendship, and make Jesus visible through loving action. Many of the efforts focused on friendship evangelism, involving warmly greeting people in public spaces and distributing care bags that contained literature, such as Steps to Christ and The Great Controversy (available in English, Spanish and French), as well as church invitations, ministry information and other small gifts. Invitations were also shared for upcoming public evangelistic meetings. Additionally, members also engaged in servicefocused projects, such as assisting residents with household chores.
Church members greet patrons outside a Hispanic grocery store in Salisbury, Md.
Parkersburg Academy Cultivates Spiritual Atmosphere
Through intentional effort and strategic planning, the staff at Parkersburg Academy (PA) in West Virginia has been dedicated to cultivating a more vibrant spiritual environment by introducing God and nurturing the relationship of each student with Jesus. It is noteworthy that 70 percent of PA’s student body comes from families who are not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Each month, both the school and the Parkersburg (W.Va.) church come together for a spiritually uplifting program that delivers messages to help strengthen their relationship with Jesus. PA has incorporated family Friday evening vespers into the school calendar and partnered with the church to organize engaging monthly children’s church programs. These initiatives are designed to attract attendance not only from Adventist church families but also to provide an inclusive space for families who are not Adventist. This welcoming approach aims to communicate that all are invited and welcome as part of the church family.
Earlier this year, PA utilized the North American Division’s Pentecost 2025 initiative and, under the guidance of Walter Cardenas, Mountain View Conference Hispanic Ministries coordinator, organized an evening Week of Prayer. During the event, school families were welcomed to a family
Parkersburg Academy families receive a catered supper during Week of Prayer.
worship-style gathering that included a complimentary supper. The evening also featured break-out sessions where parents engaged in discussions on relevant topics, while students participated in their own activities. Attendees were encouraged to make personal and family commitments to follow Jesus and prioritize Him at the heart of their family life.
All the parents who were present voluntarily expressed their desire to participate in Bible studies. They also shared their appreciation for the worship sessions and discussions.
“We saw our school grow together in community and in purpose,” shares Monica Zill, PA principal. “It was so good to offer an event that was so meaningful to our school families.”
As the school staff continues to reach their community for Jesus, they solicit prayers on their behalf.
The Bair family shares that “the Week of Prayer meetings were a huge blessing to us all.”
Couples Renew Vows at Annual Marriage Retreat
Mountain View Conference (MVC) leadership recognizes that their initiative, “Let’s Grow Together,” needs to start in the home. As a result, the MVC started its first annual marriage retreat with merely six couples in attendance. As the Lord told Zechariah, never despise meager beginnings (Zechariah 4:10).
As the couples arrived Friday evening at Valley Vista Adventist Center, they enjoyed a special meal prepared for them in a romantic setting. Throughout the weekend, Pastor Jeremy Garlock and his wife, Joya, of the Boulevard church in Charleston, W.Va., shared from their own experiences on how to have a better marriage. Couples enjoyed working together to create a special recommitment box, navigating through a scavenger hunt and building a LEGO® project together. They learned that their partner is not the enemy in their marriage, but that Satan is out to destroy their union.
Saturday evening, the couples enjoyed bowling together, and on Sunday morning, the ladies walked down the aisle to meet their grooms and recommit their marriages to God.
Although the group was small, the couples stated that it was just what they needed and that they enjoyed the family setting. Lauri and Joe Nichols, members of the Cumberland (Md.) church, were among the attendees. “When we walked in the doors of the marriage retreat on Friday evening,” states Lauri, “we both had a lot of ‘splinters,’ as Pastor Jeremy calls them, that come with nearly 33 years
Attendees Joe and Lauri Nichols pray together during Mountain View Conference’s marriage retreat.
Josh and Veronica Bailey; Joe and Lauri Nichols; Allan Feldman and Constance Southerly; Lee and Tania Hickman; and Daniel Castro and Virgilia Lopez attend the annual marriage retreat.
of marriage. Those splinters had been festering for years, and with Jeremy and Joya’s guidance, we were able to remove them throughout the weekend … and we have been able to give our marriage back to God. Not only was our relationship with each other strengthened, but even more importantly, our relationship with God was strengthened. We know that the work is really just beginning, because it will be easy to fall back into old habits once we’re home and the romantic setting is gone, but we are committed to getting back to the first love that we found with each other.”
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July 25–27: Hispanic Camp Meeting, Valley Vista Adventist Center
September 5–7: Men’s Retreat, Valley Vista Adventist Center
September 26–28: Spanish Women’s Retreat, Valley Vista Adventist Center
October 3–5: English Women’s Retreat, Valley Vista Adventist Center
Crossing the Jordan
Reaching a destination requires a journey. In the journey of life, we have been promised a destination—a place where the flowers always bloom and the trees never die.
The journey may lead to bitter waters, where reproach and complaint can wither a soul, only to realize that life’s tests are a requirement for the journey. Yet, complete obedience yields the sweetest of blessings.
When the journey takes away all we have set our security on, when human provision fails and when the focus is on the present inconveniences, doubt can take over. Keeping our eyes on the destination does not remove perplexity, fear or, at times, unbelief. The promised destination does not take away that in this journey we will face hardship, scarcity, sickness, loss, betrayal and even death.
The journey’s difficulties are necessary to meet the promised destination. It is only through life’s challenges, disappointments and privations that discipline is forged, endurance built and the thought that we walk alone dissipates as we go forward and see that the Invisible is visible.
If life’s hurdles did not come our way, in the journey we call life, heaven would not hold its value, mercy would not have meaning and forgiveness would be unnecessary. The journey simply requires belief, trust and remaining faithful until the end.
We are steps away from crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land. The destination will make the journey all worthwhile. Can you see it? Across the horizon is a place, and the place holds a promise: “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Rev. 21:4, KJV).
Indeed, reaching a destination requires a journey.
Ebenezer Organized as Official Church
In August 2012, the North Plainfield church birthed a new church plant, commissioning 15 dedicated members to establish a fresh spiritual outpost. With limited resources, the group rented a modest space for $1,000 per month, laying the foundation for what would become the Ebenezer church in Berkeley Heights.
The early days were marked by challenge and sacrifice, but through persistent prayer and dedicated missionary work, the congregation steadily grew. By April 2018, the group had expanded to 40 committed members.
On April 26, 2025, the Ebenezer congregation reached a defining milestone, being officially organized as the 97th church of the New Jersey Conference. With 64 active members and a growing number of visitors, the church now thrives under the leadership of Senior Pastor Ismael Nuñez, whose vision and care have helped strengthen the spiritual foundation of this young congregation.
Reflecting on the journey, founding member Hilda Saravia shares, “The hand of God has been with us from the beginning, and the name of our church confirms it—Ebenezer—which means ‘thus far the Lord has helped us,’ found in 1 Samuel 7:12.”
Today, Ebenezer stands as a vibrant symbol of God’s faithfulness—a spiritual home born from vision, nurtured by faith and built for mission.
Abdiel Hernandez, a former New Jersey Conference (NJC) pastor; Ismael Nuñez, Ebenezer pastor; Stephen Lee, NJC president; Carlos Portanova, NJC treasurer; and Eduardo Monteiro, NJC executive secretary, recognize the Ebenezer church as an official congregation.
Elisa Maragoto School Superintendent
140 Gather for Treasurers’ Training Event
The Treasury Department of the New Jersey Conference held a Treasurers’ Training at its headquarters earlier this year, with more than 140 in attendance. Participants included local church treasurers, assistant treasurers, conference administrators and a handful of pastors.
The training—both in English and Spanish—covered essential topics, such as the Columbia Union Revolving Fund (CURF), remittances, planned giving, the Jewel accounting system, Adventist Risk Management (ARM) and local church audits.
Additionally, H. Candace Nurse, secretary/treasurer of CURF, presented on CURF’s new offerings, while three ARM representatives delivered insightful presentations on claims, church safety, self-inspections and other key topics.
Attendees say they found the training to be enriching and were inspired to continue their dedicated service in their local churches. Leaders state that the opportunity to gather treasurers and assistants for this crucial annual training was a blessing.
Administrators, local church treasurers and Treasury Department staff pose in front of New Jersey Conference’s headquarters.
One local treasurer, Federico Silie, shares, “The treasurers’ training allowed both the new and seasoned treasurers to learn new aspects of our church and review previously learned ones. CURF, as well as Adventist Risk Management, brought information that will help us be more effective in our roles as leaders.”—Carlos Portanova, Treasurer
Conference Holds Second Annual Prayer Convention
Earlier this year, New Jersey Conference’s English Prayer Ministries Department held its second annual English Prayer Convention at the Tranquility Camp in Andover. Guest speaker Kevin Wilfley, a retired pastor who served for more than 40 years in the Oregon, Upper Columbia and Washington conferences, gave five presentations on prayer, which covered topics such as the skill
of prayer, intercessory prayer, the Holy Spirit and prayer, and the assurance of salvation.
Wilfley shared personal testimonies on the power of prayer. The bonus fifth presentation was on brain dominance, which explored how the brain can affect one’s spirituality. Much like people who have different personality types, brain dominances have strengths and weaknesses. In other words, all types of people are needed for a good balance in church leadership. However, unlike personality types, which may change over time and experience, Wilfley explained that brain dominance tends to stay the same throughout one’s lifetime.
The event also featured a worship team that led the attendees in songs before each presentation, and organizers served meals to foster quality fellowship together.
Sabbath morning included a prayer walk before breakfast, where participants prayed and discussed Bible verses on prayer from the compilation book, Prayer, by Ellen White.— Anthony Ponterio, English Prayer Ministries Coordinator and Tranquility District Pastor
Attendees sing together during the second annual English Prayer Convention.
It’s interesting that some things, seemingly commonplace, can have such a long-lasting, even eternal object lesson for generations to come. One of those things is the story of Martha from Bethany who welcomed Jesus into her house (see Luke 10:38–42).
By welcoming Him into her home, Martha unwittingly demonstrated how one’s home can be an extension of a worship service and a center of influence for Him who is the light of the world.
It has often been asked by pastors and other church leaders how they can get their members to let their lights shine outside the walls of the church and into the communities. The answer to that question is quite simple: They don’t have to do anything. The community is already there. That’s where they live. They all live outside the walls of the church. All that is necessary is to turn the lights on.
What if each home would follow Martha’s example and invite Jesus to fellowship together? His presence would bring a blessedness to everyone. And by inviting others, the home would be a lighthouse shining in the darkness.
What if we would also follow the advice Jesus gave to His disciples, when at the climax of His life in Gethsemane, He asked, “Could you not watch with Me one hour?” (Matt. 26:40, NKJV). Was that too much to ask when the salvation of the world was at stake? But His small church of three was asleep. Now that we are at the climax of earth’s history, is that too much to ask of ourselves? Can we not watch with Him for one hour?
Accordingly, my wife and I have carved out a specific time each Sabbath to watch and fellowship with Him for one hour. We have set this time apart as “holy to the Lord” and to invite others who are not of our faith. His promise is, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20, NKJV).
When Jesus found His disciples asleep in the garden, it represented the vast, almost countless potential of believers lying out there—dormant, asleep. They are like bones in a cemetery waiting to be called forth by the Life-giver. What would happen if they would all arise and turn the lights on? It would be like the resurrection before the resurrection. It would certainly hasten the coming of that great resurrection day.
The Bethany Project Conference Launches New Media Studio
The Ohio Conference has opened its new media studio, a hub for creating high-quality digital content to support its ministry and mission. Located at the conference headquarters in Dayton, the studio features three themed sets with fixed and mobile lighting for flexible production. Set designs include a panel interview space, a contemporary podcast set with custom Ohio Heartbeat podcast signage, and a presenter set showcasing the Ohio Conference logo.
The studio is equipped with three professionalgrade cameras, a production switcher for live streaming and a full editing suite built for efficient and professional content creation.
Bob Cundiff, conference president, says it will highlight “the heartbeat of our mission, our outreach, our evangelism. … We can literally reach the entire world.”
Conference Executive Secretary Oswaldo
Ohio
Magaña (left) and President Bob Cundiff record the Ohio Heartbeat podcast’s inaugural episode.
R. E. Bob Tate Retired Pastor
Spring Valley Academy Students Rock Kindness
The Ohio Conference takes pride in the impact its students have on lives around the world, regardless of their age or grade level. One shining example is Jennifer Bianco’s second-grade class at Spring Valley Academy in Centerville, where young hearts demonstrate that you’re never too young to make a significant difference.
These students have been learning how to serve Jesus through meaningful, hands-on acts of kindness that extend far beyond the classroom.
One standout effort is their “Kindness Rocks”
Second-grade students from Spring Valley Academy participate in the “Kindness Rocks” project.
project. Each student painted a rock with an uplifting message and a QR code that links to a form where the finder can share when and where they discovered it. The aim? To spark a ripple effect of positivity and hope, and track how far their kindness travels. Since March 2025, their rocks have touched 11 states and three countries and have generated 37 responses and counting!
Their compassion has gone beyond encouragement. Through a student-led walkathon, the class raised funds to purchase 48 water filters for different communities across Africa. These filters were delivered during the high school’s mission trip to Kenya, providing life-changing access to clean water.
As the school year came to a close, the students used the stars they earned from the RAZ-Kids online reading program to make a difference. Each donated star helped provide healthy snacks, nourishing meals and clean drinking water to those in need.
Through every project, these students have learned to express Jesus’ love through action, joy and compassion, says Bianco. More than anything, they have demonstrated that age is no barrier to creating a real and lasting impact for Jesus.
Pastors’ Meeting Focuses on Evangelism, Ministry Support
Pastors from across the Ohio Conference recently gathered at Integrity Hall in Dayton for a two-day meeting focused on spiritual renewal and evangelistic preparation.
Bob Cundiff (pictured), conference president, opened with a devotional, affirming the sacred calling of pastoral ministry. “You are loved, you are with friends and we celebrate you,” he said.
Training sessions followed, including a seminar on abuse prevention led by Phil Swartley of GuideOne Insurance, emphasizing safety, as well as screening and reporting procedures.
A major focus was the Pentecost 2025 initiative, with $675,000 allocated to support public evangelism across 101 sites, aiming to baptize more than 1,000 people this year. Kojo Twumasi, senior district pastor of the Toledo First and Northwood churches, introduced the BLAST model—Building Lives Around Solid Truth—using targeted digital
outreach to boost attendance and engagement. Rudy Salazar, associate director of Stewardship Ministries at the North American Division (NAD), shared stewardship principles, while NAD’s Human Resources team presented policy updates.
Reflecting on the event, Ron Anderson, pastor of the Chillicothe, Jackson and Portsmouth churches, notes, “It was inspiring—there’s so much the Holy Spirit wants to do through us.”
Leaders Grow Leaders
This editorial was published in the Pennsylvania Conference devotional, Back to the Altar. To order a copy, visit paconference.org/devotional-book.
My first mentor in the Seventh-day Adventist Church was a local church elder named Sherman Holland. Soon after my baptism, Holland made it a point to guide me through becoming a new Adventist Christian. He invited me to join his adult Sabbath School class and kept me involved by asking me to assist him with research on the lesson studies. Once I could handle myself as a Sabbath School teacher, Holland—who was in his 80s—would often intentionally arrive late to class. This was because he had started driving his van around town, picking up the “old folks,” many of whom were much younger than he was.
About a month after my baptism, the church pastor approached me and asked if I would preach a sermon the following month. “Who, me?” I thought. I told him I wouldn’t know where to begin. Holland reassured me that God would show me what to say to His church. God indeed proved faithful, and I learned a great deal from the experience.
Over the years, I continued to enjoy Holland’s friendship, sharing time in prayer about my newest challenges or blessings as a pastor. I called him when I planted my first congregation and when I conducted my first evangelistic series. I would call him to talk and share memories.
I miss my friend, but I know God placed him in my life to help me better serve the people I have pastored over the past three decades. Holland was the one who encouraged me, making me feel that I could help achieve something for God.
Reflecting on my early days in the church, I am reminded of Paul’s words, “The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:9, NKJV). Why not ask God to use you as that small breath of encouragement to someone today? You never know how one simple act of support or kindness may ripple forward, shaping a life, building a leader or planting seeds of faith that bear fruit for years to come. Let God use you—just as He used Holland—to leave a legacy of faith and hope in the lives of others.
New Ministry Impacts Reading Junior Academy Students
Reading Junior Academy (RJA) educators understand that students need to know God and not just hear about Him. “Following God is a personal relationship,” shares RJA teacher Jennifer Pettengill (pictured with students). “The only way to know God is to spend time with Him, being in His Word and prayer, and sharing that with others.”
RJA decided to begin a Wednesday night group where youth could learn to study, pray and deepen their personal relationship with God. Meeting on Wednesdays after school, volunteers from the Reading Kenhorst Boulevard church, located next to the school, provide dinner for
them. Afterward, students divide into small groups to study the Bible. At first, adults led the groups. Soon, young people were leading out while teachers and volunteers listened.
“The kids are in their Bibles, and it’s incredible to listen to the applications and the things God is teaching them directly through His Word,” says Pettengill.
Scott Haakenson, pastor of Reading Kenhorst Boulevard, is excited about what’s happening. “I am a product of Adventist education. My kids are a product of Adventist education. And I don’t think I’ve ever seen the Spirit of God moving on hearts like He is right now at Reading Junior Academy.”
Pettengill adds, “They are going out and teaching their families and community. The end goal is for them to grow to the place where they are truly soldout disciples of Christ.”
For nearly 20 months, the Pennsylvania Conference prayerfully planned an ambitious evangelistic outreach to the Philippines, working closely with the Southern Asia-Pacific Division and the South-Central Luzon Conference. In March, a dedicated team of 96 missionaries—including 47 pastors and spouses, 12 medical professionals, and 37 students and sponsors from Blue Mountain Academy (BMA)—arrived in the provinces of Batangas and Laguna to share the love of Jesus.
The heart of this mission unfolded for 11 days, as the team held meetings at 38 evangelistic sites. A highlight of the outreach was the powerful ministry of BMA students David Sipes, David DeSousa, Isaak Cortazar, Jordan Stifka and Joel Perez, who spoke at five sites in Lipa City.
With the help of 32 Filipino professionals, the team served more than 5,000 patients, offering dental and medical care, while inviting people to attend a local evangelistic series.
On Sabbath, more than 6,500 people gathered at the Santa Rosa Arena to witness the baptisms of 937 people, each with a powerful story of how Jesus and the meetings had changed their lives.
When Brandon Senior, pastor of the Pittsburgh and New Brighton churches, first stepped into the Kapayapaan church, Ronell, the head deacon, shared his deepest prayer: that his father would return to the Lord. On the opening night of the evangelistic seminar, they were excited to see Ronell’s father come through the doors. When Senior made the first baptism appeal, this long-prayed-for father rose to his feet and took a stand for Jesus.
Andrew Abbott, pastor of Pennsylvania Conference’s Erie, Lowville and Slocum churches, baptizes a young boy in the Philippines.
“During the closing program, we witnessed the incredible moment he was baptized, returning to his first love—Jesus,” Senior shares.
Janice Lively, whose husband, Wayland, pastors the Shenango Valley and Meridian Road churches, shares another story: “From the very first night, I noticed one man who sat in the front, fully engaged and eager to learn. He quickly became the ‘early bird,’ arriving before everyone else, his face lighting up during the messages.”
Lively, who spoke for one of the evangelistic meetings, learned that this man had been studying with a lay Bible worker and was discovering who Jesus was, along with the truths of the Ten Commandments, including the Sabbath.
Encouraged by his Seventh-day Adventist girlfriend, he attended faithfully each night, always eager to answer questions and participate. “The night I made the baptism call, he was the first to come forward— he didn’t even wait for me to finish the invitation!”
Lively joyfully shares. Today, he stands as the first Adventist in his family.
“This mission trip was not just about transforming lives in the Philippines; it has transformed us here in Pennsylvania,” says Gary Gibbs, conference president. “Our pastors, students and members have returned inspired, energized and deeply committed to mission at home and abroad.”
An exciting outcome of this effort was that the Pennsylvania Conference was able to fund 82 Bible workers from October 2024 through May 2025, and generate 8,727 new leads for upcoming meetings.
Pastors from the Pennsylvania Conference and the Philippines baptize more than 1,350 people as a result of the evangelistic series.
Conference Launches New Ministry to Empower Leaders
The Potomac Conference Pastoral Ministries Department has launched a renewed focus on ministry development to better support pastors and strengthen the broader membership across the conference. This initiative represents more than a programming update; it signals a deeper investment in the growth, empowerment and effectiveness of Potomac’s spiritual leaders.
“As part of this initiative, our pastors’ meetings will be rebranded as Ministry Development Conferences,” says John Nixon II, vice president for Pastoral Ministries. “These gatherings will go beyond fellowship and inspiration, offering targeted training, practical tools and intentional spaces for spiritual renewal and leadership growth.”
The Vienna (Va.) church hosted the first gathering under this new model (pictured). Pastors united for a day of connection, equipping and encouragement, as they explored tools for strengthening both personal and professional ministry.
In addition to supporting pastors, the department is expanding elder training across various regions. These events are designed to equip local church elders with the skills, confidence and biblical insight needed to lead and serve effectively alongside their pastors.
A new four-year curriculum for pastoral interns on the ordination track is also being launched. This structured program will offer clear developmental milestones, mentoring and theological formation for emerging leaders.
Hispanic Elders Couples’ Retreat Breaks Record
The Hispanic Elders Couples’ Retreat exceeded expectations, drawing more than 320 couples from Hispanic churches across the Potomac Conference. This turnout made it the largest couples’ retreat in the North American Division and a defining moment for Hispanic Ministries.
Far more than a weekend getaway, the retreat offered a spiritually enriching experience designed to strengthen marriages, deepen faith and address
family dynamics. Presenters led dynamic seminars rooted in biblical principles and real-life experiences. Each session gave couples practical tools to enhance communication, resolve conflict and build stronger spiritual foundations in their homes.
One of the most moving moments came during the vow renewal ceremony. Couples stood hand-inhand, recommitting themselves before God and their fellow believers. As heartfelt prayers were lifted, many couples wept, embraced and experienced deep emotional healing. The sacred ceremony was followed by a powerful group prayer session, uniting participants in faith and purpose. The retreat concluded with an elegant gala dinner, an evening of joy, laughter and celebration of enduring love.
Rafael Soto, vice president for Hispanic Ministries, called the retreat “historic in every aspect. It shows what happens when the church invests intentionally in families—we witness healing, restoration and spiritual renewal on a deep level.”
Enslaved and Indigenous Gravesites Discovered at Camp
In 1860, more than 550,000 enslaved Black people lived in Virginia, accounting for one-third of the state’s population. In the rural village of Montebello, historical records confirm that several families owned enslaved individuals. Life expectancy for those in servitude was about 36 years, and infant and child mortality rates were tragically high. Forced to labor six days a week, many also endured legal prohibitions. For example, in the 1830s, it was illegal in Virginia for enslaved persons to read or write.
On April 29, 2025, members of the Montebello community, representatives of the Potomac Conference Corporation, and Camp Blue Ridge (CBR) staff gathered to remember the lives of enslaved and Indigenous people who once lived, worked and died on the land where the camp now sits. Though history has not preserved their names, their memory remains deeply rooted in the place they once called home. At least five burial sites have been identified on the property. The unmarked graves have no headstones and no recorded identities. Their legacy serves as a quiet testimony to their daily struggles of survival and perseverance.
The effort to confirm these graves began with camp leadership. CBR Director Ray Queen and Assistant Director Julie Minnick had heard longstanding local accounts about unmarked graves on the property. They invited Lynn Caldwell, a dedicated camp volunteer, to research the folklore.
Caldwell approached the mission with care, concern and conviction. She spoke with longtime residents, studied historical archives and brought in cadaver dogs to survey the area. In 2024, the dogs confirmed what oral tradition had long suggested: The presence of multiple burial sites belonging to enslaved and Indigenous individuals. Many of these people were likely laid to rest without markers, reflecting a historical pattern in which burial practices for the enslaved lacked dignity, documentation and permanence. According to historical records, when an enslaved person died, the day’s work would be completed before the body was prepared for burial; hence, most funerals were held at night. Indigenous burial grounds, too, were frequently desecrated or ignored.
“Through this research, we have uncovered more than just burial sites; we have uncovered a call to remember,” Caldwell says. “We must do better to honor each other with love, respect and equality. We are all equal in the sight of God.”
At the dedication ceremony, Potomac Conference President Charles A. Tapp delivered a brief homily, emphasizing the spiritual and moral importance of remembering. “History is important because people are important,” he said. “Though we may not know their names, God does. If people are important to God, regardless of their station in life, then they must also be important to us.”
Now, with renewed understanding, CBR stands not only as a place of recreation and retreat but a sacred site for those forgotten in death.
Phone: (540) 886-0771
Potomac People is published in the Visitor by the Potomac Conference n 606 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401
n pcsda.org n President, Charles A. Tapp n Editor, Debra Anderson
PHOTOS BY RICHARD CASTILLO
Five markers stand in solemn tribute to the unidentified buried Indigenous and enslaved individuals.
A quiet path leads to the historic burial grounds at Camp Blue Ridge.
Students Make Big Impact During Spring Break
How did you spend spring break? At Blue Mountain Academy (BMA), 74 students and staff chose to impact the world. Divided into three groups, they headed in different directions with one mission: to serve God by making a difference in the lives of others.
Six female students, accompanied by Daniel Provost, a plant services assistant, Eunices Rodriguez, the operations administrative assistant, and Manuel Gonzalez, the drama club leader and the auditor at the Pennsylvania Conference, traveled to El Naranjo in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, to help build a local church in need of a sanctuary. Although passionate about finishing their eightyear church project, members often had to redirect funds to evangelism. For 10 days, students worked alongside them—painting, digging, mixing cement and doing electrical work—most of which they’d never done before.
“Even though the girls were working in an environment they weren’t used to and doing tasks they’d never done before, the Lord gave them strength and a good attitude,” says Gonzalez. “They had fun, built friendships and marveled at the beauty of God’s creation.”
Another group of 37 students partnered with Lipa Adventist Academy in the Philippines for a student-led evangelistic outreach. The two academies led simultaneous meetings in Lipa City, where students preached, prayed and led music, sharing Jesus boldly with the community.
Coordinated by Gay Tanamal, BMA CFO/business manager, the school also conducted a Week of Prayer at Lipa and performed with the Arial Aires team—a ministry that blends gymnastics and drama to share the gospel. Five BMA students—David Sipes, David DeSousa, Isaak Cortazar, Jordan Stifka and Joel Perez—served as evangelists.
“Their passion and commitment left a lasting impact, both on the people they served and on their own spiritual growth,” says Kevin Costello, Pennsylvania Conference treasurer. The team also included 47 pastors and spouses and 12 health professionals. So far, more than 1,350 people have been baptized as a result of this project.
Meanwhile, 28 students and staff served at Camp Kulaqua (Fla.)—waking each day to the roar of a lion from the camp’s zoo. They painted, weeded, cleaned, inflated more than 100 tubes for the lazy river and helped set up the grounds for summer ministries.
“Our kids were such good volunteers! They completed everything planned for us, and the Kulaqua staff had to find us more jobs,” shares chaperone Diana Engen. “They worked willingly, and the difference was visible. Our worships were meaningful, and Sabbath was extra special with Cowboy Camp, zoo time and a prayer walk around the springs.”
Whether stateside or abroad, leaders say these mission trips gave students the chance to grow in faith, serve others and experience the joy of selfless ministry. They returned not just with stories—but with a renewed commitment to live as Christ’s hands and feet wherever He leads.
During spring break, student Joel Perez (right), accompanied by an interpreter, preaches at an evangelistic series in the Philippines.
Computer Networking Brings a Year of Innovation
Lake Nelson Adventist Academy staff desire to create an educational experience in which students can learn hands-on, practical skills. This past year, the school invited Keefe Drayton to teach the Computer Networking and Electronics Lab. Starting in a repurposed space behind the school, the students turned curiosity into hands-on learning, beginning with foundational lessons in network theory, and progressed to building and testing Ethernet cables. They then decommissioned the school’s former security system as part of a realworld networking project.
From there, the focus shifted to electronics, in which students learned soldering techniques and assembled working smart cars, clocks, speakers and digital pianos.
Finally, students used both block coding and Python to program and build a first-person view drone—offering a pilot’s-eye view through radiolinked goggles.
This course has been a showcase of student ingenuity, problem-solving and exploration in the world of STEM. Students have had the opportunity
to get their hands and minds engaged in a rapidly developing industry. Academy leaders pray that, as the students continue to grow their skills, that they will step in the STEM industry to serve in the capacity to which God leads them.
Britney Flores and Francesca LaFleur team up to solder components together.
Daniel Escobar and Michael Chiles III program a drone prior to flying it.
David Mateo Paredes and Pablo Padulla Cisneros work together to finish a small robotics project in the Computer Networking and Electronics Lab.
Athletics Program Enters New Era
The athletics program at Pine Forge Academy (PFA) is taking flight—soaring under new leadership and vision. This past year marked a transformational era under the guidance of Daniel Pierre-Louis, athletics director, who has already begun elevating the “Falcon” experience.
Following the legendary Kris Fielder, who faithfully led the athletics program for 37 years, Pierre-Louis has brought renewed energy and strategy to PFA’s athletics—ushering in a new chapter of excellence.
This year, PFA fielded seven Falcon teams: girls’ and boys’ volleyball, boys’ flag football, boys’ junior varsity and varsity basketball, girls’ varsity basketball, and track and field.
The girls’ volleyball team—donned in new uniforms—finished as division runner-up. The boys’ junior varsity basketball program returned with great success, reigniting a culture of growth and brotherhood.
The school made history with its inaugural boys’ volleyball team, starting their season 7-0 and finishing third overall within the league. Meanwhile, track and field athletes continued to build strength, and
flag football added energy to the fall calendar.
To further unify school spirit, the Athletics Department launched a new website through sideline.bsnsports.com, featuring Falcon apparel and fan gear for students, staff, alumni and supporters.
A portion of each sale goes directly to the Athletic Department to help fund uniforms and equipment— blending school pride with support.
The department expanded its online presence through Instagram (@pfa_athletics) and integrated MaxPreps to track athlete stats, helping students gain national exposure. One senior was even offered a Division 1 athletic scholarship.
At an awards ceremony, several Falcon athletes earned league recognition for their talent and leadership. The event featured heartfelt speeches, live music and community guest speaker Wayne Deegan—a marathon runner and Olympic torchbearer in the 1984 and 1996 games.
As PFA looks ahead, athletics is only getting started. With more programs, deeper engagement and God-centered purpose, the school leaders invite you to pray for them, support in any way possible and share their story.
Class of 2025 seniors Sydney Marsh and Andreś Trellis display their student-athlete awards for their talent and leadership while attending Pine Forge Academy.
The boys’ varsity basketball team huddle during a timeout.
Member of Class of 2025 Named ‘Commended Student’
At a recent schoolwide chapel, Principal Don Short announced that the National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) named Michael Herold (’25) a
Principal Don Short (right) congratulates Michael Herold (’25) for achieving the distinction of Commended Student in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program, taking the place among an elite group of high school scholars nationwide.
2025 Commended Student, presenting him with a Letter of Commendation from Shenandoah Valley Academy and the NMSP. More than 1.5 million students across the United States entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Herold is one of approximately 34,000 commended students who demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success.
“Those being named commended students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” says a representative of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.”
Short adds, “We hope and pray this recognition will encourage and affirm Michael as he continues on the path of academic excellence.”
Class of 2026 Goes On New England Study Tour
Prior to the end of the school year, the Class of 2026 spent five days on Shenandoah Valley Academy’s (SVA) annual New England Study Tour. A full itinerary included places of historical importance in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Maine, including:
• Meeting a survivor of the terrorist attacks at the 9/11 memorial
• Walking Plymouth with Leo Martin, a noted Christian tour guide
• Welcoming in the Sabbath hours by the Scituate Lighthouse
• Visiting the home of Seventh-day Adventist pioneer Joseph Bates
• Ducking into Trump Tower to get out of a Manhattan downpour
• Riding down 10 stories on the longest escalator in New York
At graduation in May, the Class of 2026 was announced as seniors. “We look forward to encouraging them as they take on their new leadership role at SVA for the 2025–26 school year,” says Don Short, principal.
Shenandoah is published in the Visitor by Shenandoah Valley Academy n 234 West Lee Highway, New Market, VA 22844 Phone: (540) 740-3161 n shenandoahvalleyacademy.org n Principal, Donald Short n Editor, Janel Haas Ware
The Class of 2026 welcomes the Sabbath hours by the Scituate Lighthouse in Massachusetts.
Makaeli Abbott Alexander Alfaro Aashna Armstrong Avery Barwick Tyler Beckett Kevin Bejarano Emma Campbell Emily Carvalho Nikhil Chavan
Joel Cortes William Dortch Emily Dowling Sunaina Edward Cameron Esveld Michelle Fernando Sonia George Aiden Hardware Mya Holder
Christopher Hooley Erica Hooley Nithya Inapanuri Matthew James Emma Kornick Matthew Mendez
Samuel Miranda Christopher Monroig Anthony Ortiz
Gabriel Ovalle Abigail Pangborn Raylyn Rada
Gabriella Ramirez Ryan Reinhardt Emilie Rodrigues Lucas Ruocco Ethan Samuel Jerusha Samuel Joseph Shin
Sara Silva Grace Soper Sophie Straw Devon Towns Elise Welch Jelani Williamson
Academy Welcomes New Principal
After a thorough and prayerful search, Spring Valley Academy (SVA) is pleased to welcome Peter Cousins as principal for the 2025–26 school year.
With more than 25 years of experience as a math and science teacher, as well as a principal, Cousins is well-equipped to lead SVA into its next chapter. His career has largely been spent in Seventh-day Adventist schools in Indiana,
Peter Cousins, alongside his wife, Melissa, is the new principal of Spring Valley Academy.
Michigan and North Carolina. His accomplishments include guiding a growing school through a building project, introducing new educational programs, and even starting an online school in his most recent position as superintendent of education for the Indiana Conference.
“I’m truly looking forward to working alongside the staff and parents as we guide students toward Christ,” says Cousins.
“Peter has a long history of successful leadership in growing schools,” says Judy Cambigue, vice principal for kindergarten through sixth grade. “But I’m particularly excited about his passion for supporting students, families and teachers. It’s going to be a great year!”
Cousins shares that Hebrews 8:10–12 is particularly meaningful to him because “the promises of the new covenant shape my expectations for what Christ desires to do in me, for me and through me.”
New Theme for a New School Year
Each year, Spring Valley Academy (SVA) chooses a new spiritual theme that guides every chapel program, Week of Prayer and vespers. Chaplain Joel Greve shares his thoughts about the theme for the 2025–26 school year, “Meandering with the Master”:
“In a world that prizes speed, efficiency and control, ‘Meandering with the Master’ invites us to slow down, walk alongside Jesus and sit with His words. This year, we’ll explore the teachings of Christ, not as a checklist of commands, but as an invitation into a relationship—a journey where questions are welcomed, mystery is embraced and transformation unfolds over time. Like the disciples who wandered dusty roads with their Rabbi, we’ll listen closely to His parables, witness His compassion and lean into His wisdom for how to live, love, forgive and belong. This is not a race, but a rhythm. A pilgrimage. A meandering journey with the Master.”
First semester will focus on the individual invitation to walk with the Master, while second semester
will deepen that focus by applying that invitation to the school as a community.
“The semesters are divided into sections, and each section pairs an Old Testament prophetic voice with a moment in Jesus’ ministry,” explains Greve, “highlighting how Jesus walks in the footsteps of the prophets—and invites us to walk with Him today.”
Greve says SVA students and staff will benefit from this yearlong exploration into Micah 6:8: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (ESV).
Ayanna Ewan
Bria Wooden
Catilin Ralph
Cheyenne Thorpe
Chinyere Cuffy
Ariana Revollo
Emory Norman
Esai Taylor
Evan Watson
Gabriel McLean
Gabrielle Evans
Hannah Tobias
Ikechi Mezu-Alabi
Jasmine James
Jordan Sam
Kaelan Smith
Kara Nangle
Leonardo Butler
Michale Brown
Madison Haughton
McKenzie Young
Miah Hayes
Micah Samuels
David Atterberry
Noah Johnson
Jaiden Gibson
Pheobe Warfield
Raissa Jei Labrador
Rory Thompson
Shaiel Palmer
Timothy Danticat
Landon Sirls
Tyler Stephens
Laila Vidal
Chandler Sterling
Daniel Nwanguma
Jalen Andrews
Owen Gardner
Ximena Meza-Baez
Nathan Beneyam
Edward Lester
Zion Hameed
TA Today is published in the Visitor by Takoma Academy n 8120 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912
n ta.edu n Principal, Yasmine Julien n Editor, Shaun Robinson
Making a Difference in a Changing World
There’s a lot going on these days. We are living in a time of great change, and we all feel it. Every day we hear announcements of potential changes that affect our communities, the healthcare industry or us personally. Change is always demanding – but rapid, unpredictable and large-scale change is especially challenging.
In times like these, it can be easy to get mired in feeling overwhelmed and powerless. However, we can choose instead to take a breath, center ourselves and continue to do our job supporting excellence in healthcare. I don’t say this lightly. It’s not easy sometimes. Some of you have shared your struggles, and I struggle at times as well.
When feeling drained, I find it helps to focus on our Mission. Most importantly, our Mission statement makes it clear that God is working through us. We can lean into the promise God has made to always be with us during our struggles. It can also help to recall that our team is big. We have approximately 10,000 team members and partners – and all of us are committed to creating the best patient experience, whether our role is serving a patient directly, preparing a meal, doing lab work, ensuring clear communication or completing paperwork accurately. You are not alone in your efforts to be a positive force.
And it can help to remember that, as Martin Luther King Jr. said, “... the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” What you are doing matters. You are bending the arc in both small ways and big ways – and even in ways where you might not see the impact right away. But always remember that your actions are meaningful.
Thank you for each of those actions. They add up. You are an important part of both how Adventist HealthCare will be seen and experienced as the trusted choice for exceptional care and how together we can make a difference in the world. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with your manager or reach out to your HR Business Partner. We may not be able to control all things, but together we can remain true to our calling to help people with compassion and provide high-quality care they can count on. And that makes a difference.
John Sackett President and CEO Adventist HealthCare
Expanding Capacity to Meet Community Needs
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center has boosted its ability to care for growing healthcare needs with the opening of a new unit on the hospital’s eighth floor. The 20,620-square-foot unit includes 30 beds to accommodate patients from the Emergency Department and patients undergoing medical or surgical procedures. The unit was opened with a blessing and litany (shown above) to pray for patients and the team members who care for them.
The need for medically necessary services is high in Maryland, and both a lack of inpatient capacity and Emergency Department wait times have been a consistent problem. As Anthony Stahl, president of White Oak Medical Center, explains, “This addition allows us to streamline patient flow by moving patients more quickly from the Emergency Department to inpatient units to receive the specialized care they require.”
The hospital also converted existing rooms on its seventh floor to create a larger, 34-bed intermediate care unit that provides specialized care for patients with a higher acuity of need for medical monitoring and treatment.
“The opening of this new unit is an important step in the long-term plans for the robust growth of White Oak Medical Center and the other acute care facilities within the Adventist HealthCare system,” said John Sackett, Adventist HealthCare president and CEO. “Adding capacity at White Oak Medical Center aligns with Adventist HealthCare’s mission to extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing.”
The state-of-the-art White Oak Medical Center opened in August 2019. Anticipating future growth, the hospital constructed the shell of the eighth floor in 2020, paving the way for this expansion. Construction of the new unit began in spring 2024 after the hospital received regulatory approval to proceed. This opening also strengthens the workforce in the community by adding positions in nursing, clinical roles and support services.
Making a Difference in a Changing World
There’s a lot going on these days. We are living in a time of great change, and we all feel it. Every day we hear announcements of potential changes that affect our communities, the healthcare industry or us personally. Change is always demanding – but rapid, unpredictable and large-scale change is especially challenging.
In times like these, it can be easy to get mired in feeling overwhelmed and powerless. However, we can choose instead to take a breath, center ourselves and continue to do our job supporting excellence in healthcare. I don’t say this lightly. It’s not easy sometimes. Some of you have shared your struggles, and I struggle at times as well.
When feeling drained, I find it helps to focus on our Mission. Most importantly, our Mission statement makes it clear that God is working through us. We can lean into the promise God has made to always be with us during our struggles. It can also help to recall that our team is big. We have approximately 10,000 team members and partners – and all of us are committed to creating the best patient experience, whether our role is serving a patient directly, preparing a meal, doing lab work, ensuring clear communication or completing paperwork accurately. You are not alone in your efforts to be a positive force.
And it can help to remember that, as Martin Luther King Jr. said, “... the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” What you are doing matters. You are bending the arc in both small ways and big ways – and even in ways where you might not see the impact right away. But always remember that your actions are meaningful.
Thank you for each of those actions. They add up. You are an important part of both how Adventist HealthCare will be seen and experienced as the trusted choice for exceptional care and how together we can make a difference in the world. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with your manager or reach out to your HR Business Partner. We may not be able to control all things, but together we can remain true to our calling to help people with compassion and provide high-quality care they can count on. And that makes a difference.
John Sackett President and CEO Adventist HealthCare
Expanding Capacity to Meet Community Needs
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center has boosted its ability to care for growing healthcare needs with the opening of a new unit on the hospital’s eighth floor. The 20,620-square-foot unit includes 30 beds to accommodate patients from the Emergency Department and patients undergoing medical or surgical procedures.
The unit was opened with a blessing and litany (shown above) to pray for patients and the team members who care for them.
The need for medically necessary services is high in Maryland, and both a lack of inpatient capacity and Emergency Department wait times have been a consistent problem. As Anthony Stahl, president of White Oak Medical Center, explains, “This addition allows us to streamline patient flow by moving patients more quickly from the Emergency Department to inpatient units to receive the specialized care they require.”
The hospital also converted existing rooms on its seventh floor to create a larger, 34-bed intermediate care unit that provides specialized care for patients with a higher acuity of need for medical monitoring and treatment.
“The opening of this new unit is an important step in the long-term plans for the robust growth of White Oak Medical Center and the other acute care facilities within the Adventist HealthCare system,” said John Sackett, Adventist HealthCare president and CEO. “Adding capacity at White Oak Medical Center aligns with Adventist HealthCare’s mission to extend God’s care through the ministry of physical, mental and spiritual healing.”
The state-of-the-art White Oak Medical Center opened in August 2019. Anticipating future growth, the hospital constructed the shell of the eighth floor in 2020, paving the way for this expansion. Construction of the new unit began in spring 2024 after the hospital received regulatory approval to proceed. This opening also strengthens the workforce in the community by adding positions in nursing, clinical roles and support services.
Kettering Health Newsletter
A Worldview of Wellness:
How a Kettering Health Cardiologist Sees the Bigger Picture
Dr. Harvey Hahn knows—in more ways than one—how much truth is packed into the proverb “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23, NIV).
A board-certified cardiologist at Kettering Health, Dr. Hahn has spent more than two decades helping patients heal their hearts. In his early years of practice, that care primarily involved medication and, when needed, surgical interventions. For more than a decade now, though, his approach has included a new (but actually old) perspective on how to more intentionally care for the heart, rather than react to conditions, which “often puts a bandaid on the deeper problems.”
In addition to cardiology, Dr. Hahn is also board-certified in lifestyle medicine, a growing field that promotes evidence-based strategies to prevent, treat, and even reverse disease by changing
daily habits. For him, that means helping patients understand that the best way to guard their hearts is not just through clinical intervention, but through the choices they make each day—especially around diet, exercise, rest, and relationships.
Adopting this approach to heart health didn’t come from a book or podcast or medical journal. The origin story actually starts in his own story, when his own health brought him to reexamine his habits—and his calling.
A heartfelt turning point
“I was 40, overweight, on two medications,” he says. After suffering a meniscus tear in his left knee, he was having to “use my hands to push myself out of the car,” he says. The tear led to something of a wake-up call.
“After I hurt my knee, I realized that it was because I was carrying
A Worldview of Wellness (cont.)
the extra 45 pounds around every single step of the day,” he shared on Runner’s World in 2017. “I also realized that if I didn’t do something, I would be watching my kids play instead of being out there playing with them.”
That realization became a turning point. Dr. Hahn adopted a vegan diet, started running, and embraced consistent rest. He lost 45 pounds and reversed his health conditions. The experience not only transformed his body—it reshaped his practice.
Now, he approaches cardiology with a conviction that meaningful wellness and true healing, he says, comes from getting to the “why behind the why.”
“If someone has high cholesterol, we can prescribe medication—but what if the real issue is that they’re eating at night because they’re lonely?” he explains. “Until we deal with the root, we’re just putting bigger bandaids on.”
Dr. Hahn’s patients don’t just hear advice—they hear a story they recognize. “People used to look at me and say, ‘You don’t understand,’” he says. “Now I can tell them, ‘I was where you are. I get it.’ That bond builds trust—and with trust comes change.”
A lifestyle of abundance
For Dr. Hahn, that change isn’t just clinical. It’s spiritual.
“Lifestyle medicine has six pillars— nutrition, exercise, avoiding risky substances, sleep, stress, and social connection,” he says. “But we’ve added a seventh: spirituality. Because to be whole, you need God.”
That belief shapes both his care and his calling. Dr. Hahn references Ecclesiastes 3:11— how God has “set eternity in the human heart”—as a reminder that true wellness isn’t just about lab results. “There’s a hole that only God can
fill,” he says. “People are looking for meaning, and our faith gives us that.”
True wellness, he identifies, isn’t a pharmaceutical or surgical fix. It’s really the result of a worldview—a way of looking at the world and oneself—that suggests that our bodies and how we relate to the world around us—food included—is part of a plan for abundance.
As a Seventh-day Adventist, Dr. Hahn sees health as a gift, one that allows him to live abundantly and enjoy communion with the God who made and ordered the world to flourish. “The rules God gives us—like rest, moderation, clean food—aren’t arbitrary,” he says. “They’re for our benefit. They free us to live the life we’re called to live.”
It’s a message he often shares with patients and church audiences alike. He points to John 10:10:
‘‘I have come that they may have life, and that they have it more abundantly’’
(NKJV).
Getting patients to think about life as a gift of abundance, he says, begins with a question: What kind of life do you want to live? His goal is to help his patients take a moment and really think about the goals they wish to achieve.
But his passion goes beyond the exam room. Dr. Hahn believes the Adventist health message is more relevant than ever—and should be shared beyond church walls.
“Our health message should be the opening wedge,” he says. “We’ve got a gift to offer, and we need to stop keeping it to ourselves.
Whether it’s at the gym, in a coffee shop, or online, we should be planting seeds.”
Ultimately, Dr. Hahn says wellness isn’t about perfection. It’s about purpose. “Your life is like a marathon,” he says. “The question is: How do you want to run your race?”
Dr. Hahn with family
Executing Vision 2030
Washington Adventist University (WAU) is continuing the transformational journey of excellence to become one of the world’s premier universities. Through a dynamic, collaborative process of assessment and planning, the Strategic Planning Committee has developed strategic action plans to produce and celebrate distinctive excellence in student success under the Six Pillars of Excellence – Quality, People, Finance, Growth, Service, and Community – to improve student outcomes, raise its profile nationally and internationally, and enhance its facilities and services to students and the learning community.
An essential part of this journey is moving forward to address the physical campus. We partnered with Adventist HealthCare, the City of Takoma Park, and Montgomery County to successfully rezone the campus. We are now in the next phase of the approved Vision 2030 strategic initiative to develop the infrastructure to 21st-century standards. Our students, parents and the entire learning community expect the campus infrastructure to be competitive and conducive to a 21stcentury teaching and learning community. The present infrastructure has served us well for the past 100 years. It is now time to move forward with the next phase of campus development for the next 100 years.
It is exciting to report that the Board of Trustees is overwhelmingly supportive of this strategic initiative. At its May 2025 meeting, the Board approved a motion from the administration to move forward in vetting eight letters of intent to partner with WAU to develop a campus master plan. The letters of intent vary from master developers to individual building projects. The overall goal is to preserve this valued church property, located within Washington, D.C.’s Capital Beltway, and monetize it to generate a new and reliable revenue stream, helping students and their parents afford an Adventist Christian education in the nation’s capital and church’s headquarters.
We deeply appreciate the support of the Board of Trustees and the partnership and support of Adventist HealthCare in offering the university an affordable funding formula to acquire the old Washington Adventist Hospital property. We are looking forward, within the next two months, to present to the Board’s Strategic Planning and Finance committees the outcomes of the vetting process. These eight parties have a financial interest in contributing to and initiating the development phases of the WAU campus.
It is our desire to make Adventist Christian education affordable to all who attend WAU. Cost should not be an obstacle for our students to grow the way Jesus grew—in wisdom, physical development and in favor with God and humanity (Luke 2:52).
This is Washington Adventist University.
Weymouth Spence President
The Only Adventist School At This Level WAU Earns ‘Opportunity University’ Distinction
WAU Earns ‘Opportunity University’ Distinction
The Only Adventist School At This Level
Washington Adventist University (WAU) has been designated an “Opportunity University” under the new Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education®, joining just 16 percent of colleges nationwide to earn this distinction.
Washington Adventist University (WAU) has been designated an “Opportunity University” under the new Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education®, joining just 16 percent of colleges nationwide to earn this distinction.
WAU President Weymouth Spence underscored the significance of this achievement.
WAU President Weymouth Spence underscored the significance of this achievement.
“The new Carnegie Classification— categorized as Opportunity Colleges and Universities (OCU)—emphasizes student success at schools with higher access and higher earnings,” Spence says. “That Washington Adventist University has received this classification is no surprise to our campus community. Our Vision 2030 strategic plan has focused on Distinctive Excellence in Student Success. At WAU, all of God’s children are welcome, and we partner with students to help them
“The new Carnegie Classification— categorized as Opportunity Colleges and Universities (OCU)—emphasizes student success at schools with higher access and higher earnings,” Spence says. “That Washington Adventist University has received this classification is no surprise to our campus community. Our Vision 2030 strategic plan has focused on Distinctive Excellence in Student Success. At WAU, all of God’s children are welcome, and we partner with students to help them
graduate on time, with little to no debt, ready for the workplace and for eternity. This new Carnegie Classification highlights the effectiveness of our faith-driven mission of Adventist excellence in higher education and the transformative impact it has on our students.”
graduate on time, with little to no debt, ready for the workplace and for eternity.
This new Carnegie Classification highlights the effectiveness of our faith-driven mission of Adventist excellence in higher education and the transformative impact it has on our students.”
The OCU classification, launched in April 2025 by The Chronicle of Higher Education, recognizes institutions that provide higher access to students and lead to higher earnings for graduates.
WAU is one of 479 colleges and universities out of more than 3,000 in the United States to achieve this status. Among the 1,400 baccalaureate-level institutions in the country, only six schools have both higher access and above-average earnings, placing WAU among this elite group.
The OCU classification, launched in April 2025 by The Chronicle of Higher Education, recognizes institutions that provide higher access to students and lead to higher earnings for graduates.
WAU is one of 479 colleges and universities out of more than 3,000 in the United States to achieve this status. Among the 1,400 baccalaureate-level institutions in the country, only six schools have both higher access and above-average earnings, placing WAU among this elite group.
In Maryland, WAU is one of just six colleges to receive the OCU classification. While several of the other recognized schools in the state are historically Black colleges
In Maryland, WAU is one of just six colleges to receive the OCU classification. While several of the other recognized schools in the state are historically Black colleges
and universities, WAU stands out as an international community, representing more than 40 countries.
and universities, WAU stands out as an international community, representing more than 40 countries.
Notably, WAU is the only Seventh-day Adventist baccalaureate-level institution nationwide to earn both the higher access and higher earning classification. While AdventHealth University and Pacific Union College also hold OCU distinction, they do so in the “Special Focus” category, rather than baccalaureate and above.
Notably, WAU is the only Seventh-day Adventist baccalaureate-level institution nationwide to earn both the higher access and higher earning classification. While AdventHealth University and Pacific Union College also hold OCU distinction, they do so in the “Special Focus” category, rather than baccalaureate and above.
WAU’s holistic approach to education, rooted in a faith-infused curriculum near the nation’s capital, prepares graduates to become competent and ethical leaders. The university’s liberal arts foundation and emphasis on moral leadership ensure that students are equipped for success in the workplace and their communities.
For more information about WAU’s distinctive programs and opportunities, visit wau.edu.
WAU’s holistic approach to education, rooted in a faith-infused curriculum near the nation’s capital, prepares graduates to become competent and ethical leaders. The university’s liberal arts foundation and emphasis on moral leadership ensure that students are equipped for success in the workplace and their communities.
For more information about WAU’s distinctive programs and opportunities, visit wau.edu.
2025 Graduates
2025 Graduates
Connecting With Maryland Communities on National Day of Prayer
From the front lawn of a suburban hospital in Silver Spring to the city centers of Rockville and Annapolis, WGTS 91.9 team members took time on the National Day of Prayer to connect through prayer with health care professionals, pastors, media and city leaders, and, most importantly, the people of Maryland.
“Bringing the Washington, D.C., region together in prayer is an honor and privilege. It is a priority for our team, so we engage in prayer daily with our listeners, whether in the community at events, on the air, or online,” says President and CEO Kevin Krueger.
“We have seen time and time again how prayer brings hope and healing to difficult situations. Prayer connects people in a way that helps them feel better, it removes the loneliness and isolation that comes during difficult times.”
Christian Artist Tauren Wells Offers
Words of Encouragement
Christian artist Tauren Wells visited the WGTS 91.9 studios recently. He shared his heart on the power of prayer.
“Prayer with God is just as simple as a conversation, and He listens, leaning low to hear the cries, the cares, the worries, and the dream of His people,” says Wells. Check out his thoughts on prayer by scanning the QR code with your phone. Also, you’re invited to visit any of our summer events to pray with one of our staff or volunteers. You can also share your prayer requests with us by clicking When We Pray on our website. There you can pray for others, have others pray for you, or both!
Top right: Ken Scribner, director of promotions and community engagement, prays with a health care professional at the Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring, Md.
Bottom right: More than 600 people gather on the plaza by the steps of the Maryland state capital building in Annapolis for singing and prayer.
To learn more about ADRA’s work.
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.
EMPLOYMENT
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
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.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks applicants for a history professor to teach various courses in global non-western history, cultural history, political science and/or ancient/classical history in the Politics, History, and International Relations program. Ph.D. in History preferred; master’s degree required. This is a full-time, exempt position. See job description and apply at uau.edu/employment.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeking applicants for director of records/registrar. This is a full-time, exempt position. The registrar ensures the integrity, accuracy and security of all academic and educational records and helps to ensure compliance with federal, state and other regulatory agencies. Excellent benefits package, including tuition assistance. See job description and apply at uau.edu/employment.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks qualified applicants for research and instruction librarian. This position develops and provides reference and library instruction to diverse groups of students, faculty, staff and community visitors, using modalities suited to the individual, classroom or online environments. Generous benefits package includes tuition assistance to dependents. Applicants should complete an application at uau.edu/employment.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks a committed Seventh-day Adventist candidate for tenure track faculty position in instrumental music. Responsibilities include overseeing the instrumental program, directing instrumental groups, advising undergraduate music majors, and teaching undergraduate courses and instrumental lessons. Master’s degree in music required, doctoral degree in music preferred. Applicants should complete an application at uau.edu/employment, upload a cover letter and resume or CV, and provide names and contact information of three references. For further information, email Academic Dean Bruce Forbes at bruce.forbes@uau.edu.
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. Applicants should complete an application at uau.edu/ employment.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY 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. Applicants should complete an application at uau. edu/employment.
UNION ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks candidates for two nursing faculty positions. These are full-time, exempt positions. Responsible for preparing undergraduate students to successfully complete the Union BSN curriculum and pass the National Council State Boards of Nursing Examination.
Excellent benefits package that includes tuition assistance for dependents. Applicants should complete an application at uau. edu/employment.
WASHINGTON ADVENTIST
UNIVERSITY is committed to finding qualified individuals who share our mission and values to fill a variety of faculty and staff positions. We are currently hiring several roles. For a complete list of full-time, part-time and adjunct faculty positions, please visit wau.edu/humanresources to submit your application.
YOU CAN CHANGE LIVES!
Canvasback Missions is seeking a dedicated couple of strong faith to be co-directors of our Wellness Center, Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands in the tropical North Pacific. More information: Visit canvasback.org/career, or call (707) 746-7828.
MISCELLANEOUS
MARYLAND MEN OF FAITH CONFERENCE: Join us October 4, 2025, at the Mount Aetna Camp and Retreat Center. Starting at 9 a.m., this all-day event provides an opportunity for men to gather in worship— featuring notable speakers,
praise time and prayer. For more details and to register, visit mmof.org.
SEARCHING FOR MEANING AND A SENSE OF PURPOSE? Inside The Little Book of Purpose!, you will explore what “being” on purpose is like. Discover how to thrive in this new and inviting book. You will be blessed! Search for the book at WestBow Press or online bookstores. For questions or more information, email: stuartbelle@hotmail.com.
JOIN STREAMS OF LIGHT INTERNATIONAL for lifechanging mission trips! Share hope, spread truth and experience the joy of service. Connect with people, pray with those in need and make an eternal impact. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to missions, there’s a place for you. Learn more at streamsoflight.net.
FOLLOW MY BLOG, paulsbookwords.com, where I review Christian books and share other books 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.
Sligo by the Sea
Coming to the shore? Plan to join us for worship Presbyterian Church in downtown Ocean City
July 5
July 12
July 19
July 26
August 2
August 9
August 16
August 23
August 30
September 6
September 13
September 20
Pastor Dave Weigley
Pastor Morgan Kochenower
Pastor Charles Tapp
Pastor Nathan Krause
Scripture & Song / Pastor Kermit Netteburg
Pastor Mark Sigue
Pastor Bonita Shields
Pastor Anthony Kent
Pastor Rick Johns
Pastor Kandace Zollman
NO SERVICE – Motorcycle Week
Pastor Ron Halvorsen Jr. sligochurch.org/sligobythesea 301-270-6777
1301 PHILADELPHIA AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
Bulletin Board
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.
KIDS NEED NEVER BE BORED! Just point them to lifetalkkids.net, and let them listen to great adventures, faith-building Bible stories, captivating science, awesome nature programs and more 24/7. Kids grow better with radio. Download our free app at: lifetalk.net.
REAL ESTATE
ORCHARD FARM: Selling part of a 20.5-acre orchard in Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York. Mature-bearing fruit trees, including apples, apricots, cherries, peaches and plums. Selling as a unit at $18K/acre. Call (315) 879-0949.
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 TECHNĒ DENTAL. Looking for a caring, highly experienced dentist?
Ernest Ponraj, DDS, 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 HELPS
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 Adventist Book Center.
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.
LEGAL NOTICES
POTOMAC CONFERENCE
CORPORATION FOURTH QUINQUENNIAL MEETING
Legal notice is hereby given that the Fourth Quinquennial
Meeting of the Potomac Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists will convene at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 7700 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912.
The purpose of this meeting is to receive the corporation’s 2020–2024 report, elect executive officers, vice presidents, and members of the Executive Committee and other board and committee members; consider recommendations for amendments and revisions to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Potomac Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists, as well as Board of Education, Shenandoah Valley Academy and Takoma Academy Bylaws; and to transact such other business as may come before the delegates.
The Organizing Committee will meet at 10 a.m. on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Richmond Evangelistic Center, located at 5300 Walmsley Blvd., Richmond, VA 23224. The Nominating Committee will meet at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the Fredericksburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, located
at 6052 Plank Rd., Fredericksburg, VA 22407.
Charles A. Tapp, President Jose L. Vazquez, Secretary
OBITUARIES
MYERS, Edna E., born April 6, 1936, in Pactolus, N.C.; died July 8, 2022, in Smithsburg, Md. Edna was a member of the Hagerstown (Md.) church. She was a nurse at Boulder Memorial Hospital (Colo.) and later at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Maryland. Edna is predeceased by Charles, her husband of 63 years. She is survived by her daughter, Denise Myers; son, Chuck Myers (Penny); four grandchildren; and many friends.
RICE, George E., born April 23, 1933; died August 16, 2022, in Greencastle, Pa. George was a member of the Hagerstown (Md.) church. He attended Atlantic Union College and became a pastor and scholar. He worked at the Seventh-day Adventist World Headquarters, then as a pastor of the Triadelphia church in Clarksville, Md. George is survived by his wife, Janet; daughter, Sherry; and several grandchildren.
Sunset Calendar
Sunset times listed below are for the cities in which our conference headquarters reside.
Jul 4 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25
Boyertown, PA 8:35 8:33 8:29 8:23
Columbus, OH 9:04 9:01 8:57 8:52
Columbia, MD 8:37 8:34 8:30 8:25
Lawrence Twp., NJ 8:31 8:29 8:25 8:19
Dayton, OH 9:08 9:05 9:01 8:56
Hamburg, PA 8:37 8:35 8:31 8:25
Staunton, VA 8:42 8:40 8:36 8:31
Parkersburg, WV 8:56 8:53 8:49 8:44 Aug 1 Aug 8 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 29
The Andrews Bible Commentary radiates the simple dignity of the grand old commentary we all know and love, but it is written for this century by the scholars of the church for the people of the church. It’s the Adventist standard for the next generation.
Passage-by-passage commentary, to be read as book, rather than a reference work.
Deep analysis focused on the meaning of the text in the context of the Advent hope.
All in two elegant volumes. That means lots of room on your shelf for the other great books of faith that enrich your walk with God.
