Story by Dover First Church and Visitor Staff
Following Winter Storm Fern, which brought more snow to the area than residents had seen in the last 10 years, Pastor Javier Scharon and members of Chesapeake Conference’s Dover First church mobilized to serve their surrounding community. Together, they shoveled snow and ice to clear walkways to ensure neighbors could safely navigate to their homes and streets.
Story by Tamyra Horst
“Our family is reading it together before the school buses come.”
“It’s helped my husband and me to have worship together.”
“I gave a copy to my barber, who I’ve been talking to about God and faith for years.”
“I’ve never spent time with God on a daily basis—now I am!”
Story by Addriene Rhodes
Pine Forge Academy (PFA) has once again distinguished itself on the national stage, recently earning the prestigious “Large Group of the Year” honor at the Kingdom Image Awards (KIA). This remarkable achievement celebrates not only the academy’s longstanding musical and cultural legacy but also the dedication, discipline and artistry of its talented students.
The highlight of Highland View Academy’s (HVA) spring recruitment season will be Academy Days, held April 12–13, 2026.
This two-day event invites students in grades 8–11 to stay on campus, participate in interactive activities, meet current students and staff, and get a genuine taste of academy life.
Parents are also encouraged to attend to learn more about HVA’s academic programs, financial aid options and faith-centered mission.
Editorial by Gary Gibbs
The Pennsylvania Conference recently witnessed God move among His people in remarkable ways. In September, churches across Pennsylvania opened their doors for our grand reunions, welcoming back former members, friends, and neighbors.
To support this outreach, we launched a statewide media campaign in late September—reaching across social media, billboards, radio and television. At the same time, over one million handbills were delivered to homes throughout Pennsylvania—we truly are committed to reaching everyone, everywhere!
Story by Alejandro Pastor
The New Jersey Conference rejoices in the ordination of Pastor Jonathan Carrillo and Pastor Anthony Ponterio.
The North American Division recently released the following statement in reaction to the Heritage Foundation's recently released "Saving American by Saving the Family" that calls to restore "blue laws" to establish a "uniform day of rest.":
The Chesapeake Conference Executive Committee elected Marilyn Scott as executive secretary of the Chesapeake Conference on Jan. 20. Scott fills the vacancy created when Andre Hastick became president on Jan. 1, following Jerry Lutz’s retirement.
Scott has served since 2024 as associate pastor for Children’s and Family Ministries at Bell Branch Church in Gambrills, Md., and as a Children’s Ministries specialist for Chesapeake Conference, providing training and resources for children’s ministries around the conference. Scott has pastored in the Chesapeake Conference for 16 years, serving previously as the Children’s Ministries associate pastor at Spencerville Church (2010–2016) and New Hope Church (2016–2024).
Story by Liz Bailey
Recently, the Mountain View Conference (MVC) hosted a first-of-its-kind retreat for professionals.
“The purpose of this retreat,” states Tim Bailey, MVC president, “is to get input from leaders in our conference and to involve them in strategic plans for our future growth.”
