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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Exceptional patient care begins with treating illness and injury, addressing the body’s intricate complexities. But it doesn’t end there. Truly exceptional care also recognizes and responds to the human spirit, affirming each person’s inherent dignity and worth—understanding humans as more than their biology.

Increasingly, research and experience affirm this holistic approach as healthcare moves toward values-based models. Yet, this philosophy is not new. Seventh-day Adventist healthcare has long embraced this view, seeing every patient as an image-bearer of God.

Fall 2025 Washington Adventist University Musicfest

Story by Visitor Staff

Seven academies and 160 students recently participated in Washington Adventist University’s MusicFest this year. 

Brian Liu, MusicFest director and assistant professor of Music at the university, reports that they awarded 47 scholarships, totaling $980,000 to the following Columbia Union students (below). 

From a Small Group to a New Life, New Jersey Conference, First Filipino church, E. Jardiniano, Rafael Monteiro

Story by Stephen Lee

Just one year ago, the First Filipino church launched a Hispanic/Latino ministry to serve its growing Spanish-speaking community. E. Jardiniano, senior pastor, and Rafael Monteiro, volunteer lay pastor, began small Sabbath afternoon gatherings focusing on prayer, Bible study and personal testimony.

Atholton Reaches Out to Community With VBS, Music, Chesapeake Conference, Atholton Church, Vacation Bible School, WGTS 91.9, "True North", Unspoken

Story by Evan Knott

The Atholton church in Columbia, Md., recently hosted two major outreach events that created significant opportunities for community engagement and evangelism.

With more than 170 children in attendance, Atholton held a high-tech “True North” Vacation Bible School (VBS), featuring a vibrant, immersive experience, complete with a professionally designed set, high-quality lighting, a colorful stage and a massive LED wall in the sanctuary. Each day, children were greeted by animated characters on lobby screens that brought the “True North” theme to life.