Who We Are, How We Serve

The Columbia Union Conference coordinates the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s work in the Mid-Atlantic United States, where 150,000 members worship in 860 congregations. We provide administrative support to eight conferences; two healthcare networks; 81 early childhood, elementary and secondary schools; a liberal arts university; a health sciences college; a 49 community services centers; 8 camps; 5 book and health food stores and a radio station.

Mission Values Priorities

We Believe

God is love, power, and splendor—and God is a mystery. His ways are far beyond us, but He still reaches out to us. God is infinite yet intimate, three yet one,
all-knowing yet all-forgiving.

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What We Need to Know About Generation Z

Image by Phan Minh Cuong An from Pixabay

Barna research has recently released a new report examining who Gen Z is and how they “uniquely contribute to our collective society, their communities and their faith.

Here are five things from that study you might find helpful when trying to reach this generation:

  1. Gen Zers feels held back from fully being themselves.

  2. They prioritize happiness, stability and good health.

  3. They are online, but still value in-person connection.

  4. Morality is often subjective.

  5. Most Gen Zers say they’ve prayed in the past week.

The Power of Pizza

Image by zuzana gazdikova from Pixabay

Story by Tamyra Horst

Looking for a unique ministry to try in 2025?

Andrew Christiansen, a pastor who serves in the Pennsylvania Conference, believes in the power of pizza.

Earlier this year, he invited members of his church district— Coudersport, Derrick City, Mount Jewett, and Warren—and anyone else who wanted to come to his annual pizza bake.

With more than 90 people who attended—40 from the community—they set a new record for the numbers of pizza made at this yearly event: 147.

Kettering College partners with Wilberforce University to Bridge Graduates into the Accelerated Nursing Program

Kettering College (KC) is pleased to announce the launch of a partnership with Wilberforce University. This strategic collaboration will give Wilberforce University graduates the opportunity to seamlessly begin their nursing education through the accelerated four-semester degree track at Kettering College. 

Graduates will have the opportunity to transition to KC’s A-BSN program from Wilberforce University to Kettering College after completion of required coursework. This partnership reflects both institutions’ dedication to addressing the national nursing shortage by preparing a new generation of highly qualified nurses, with a focus on increasing diversity within healthcare. 

Washington Adventist University Launches Women's Flag Football Program for Spring 2026 Season

Washington Adventist University Launches Women s Flag Football Program for Spring 2026 Season

Story by Erica Calhoun

Washington Adventist University (WAU) Athletics Department proudly announces the addition of women’s flag football to its athletic offerings, set to debut in Spring 2026. This expansion reflects WAU’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in women’s athletics, aligning with the rising interest in women’s flag football at both collegiate and national levels.

Youth and Children’s Ministries Directors Recharge

Story by Columbia Union Staff

Youth, Pathfinder and Children’s ministries directors and their spouses from all eight conferences within the Columbia Union recently gathered at Wisp Resort in McHenry, Md., for their annual fall advisory.

“Surrounded by the beautiful autumn colors of western Maryland, we had a rich time of inspiration, fellowship, skill-building and planning,” says Frank Bondurant, Columbia Union vice president for Ministries Development.

Tamyra Horst, Communication and Women’s Ministries director for the Pennsylvania Conference, spoke about the importance of self-care as ministry leaders and the challenge of balancing home and professional lives.