Allegheny East Conference

“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the enunchs that he might not defile himself” (Dan. 1:8, NKJV).

The rewards of the Bible-based diet in Daniel’s story resonated with me when I became a Seventh-day Adventist. My Christian journey up to that point had been a circuitous one. However, each path led me to be more reconciled to the Scriptures. Daniel’s example continues to influence the dietary improvements I make for better health, wisdom and discernment.

Story by Tracey Jackson

School started with high hopes and bubbling excitement as students and staff reunited on the campus that has become a second home to so many. It soon became apparent, however, that the anticipated dip in morale would be monumental.

With the stress of a steadily raging pandemic and continued political discourse in the country, the students’ and staff focus was continuously tried.

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

Shelton Justin Stanley, a member of Allegheny East Conference's Edmondson Heights church in Baltimore, was tragically killed at the end of 2020, leaving his family, friends and church members to grieve his death. Church members reflect on the life he lived and the impact he had on so many:

“He was a motivator who ministered with passion to our children. With his many hats, he brought a level of continuity, consistency and dedication to get the job done."—Patrick Graham, Allegheny East Conference Youth and Children’s Ministries Director

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

Zina Johnson, choir director at Allegheny East Conference's Capitol Hill church in Washington, D.C., recently participated in the gospel musical Netflix docuseries, Voices of Fire. The series, produced by recording artist Pharrell Williams, follows his uncle, Ezekiel Williams, and a team of gospel leaders as they travel to Hampton Roads, Va., in search of talented singers to build a world class gospel choir.

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

Toward the end of 2019, Minnie Redcross, one of the matriarchs of the Hillside church in Harrisburg, Pa., passed away. Among those present at her funeral was her great-great-niece, Dereasha Leaks.

At the service, Leaks felt impressed by the Holy Spirit that she needed to return for a Sabbath worship service. Shortly after, she began attending services regularly. Her husband, Kevin, also enjoyed attending, and soon they began studying with one of the church elders and his wife. Eventually, Leaks decided to fully embrace the Sabbath message and requested to be baptized.