As part of the North American Division, the Mid-America Union is already familiar with the scope of the division’s mission—but during the 2025 General Conference Session, a full report reminded us just how wide and impactful that mission has become.
The North American Division (NAD) oversees church work across the United States, Canada, Bermuda, and Micronesia—covering nine countries and territories.
With over 1.3 million members worshiping in nearly 7,000 congregations and more than 30 languages, the division serves a population of 378 million. That means there is one Seventh-day Adventist for every 293 people in the region.
The division includes about 1,000 schools, 13 universities and colleges, more than six hospitals and clinics, and several media ministries. It stretches across 14 time zones, from Florida to Alaska, and from Bermuda to Hawaii and Micronesia.
Together in Mission
NAD President Dr. G. Alexander Bryant opened the report with a reminder that the division’s theme—Together in Mission—is more than a slogan. It’s a commitment to collaboration. When churches, schools, local conferences, unions, and the division work together, he said, “we are an unbeatable force by the grace of God.”
Three focus areas guide that mission: Multiply, Media, and Mentorship.
Multiply: Growth Through Discipleship
The Multiply strategy focuses on expanding Christ’s ministry—teaching, healing, proclaiming, and showing compassion. A highlight of this work is Pentecost 2025, a major outreach effort that began with a goal of 3,000 proclamation events. So far, more than 5,200 churches and schools have joined the effort.
In 2023 alone, over 400 new congregations were added, growing the NAD to 5,810 churches and 894 companies. More than 205,000 people have joined the church since 2022. That includes 1,215 young people baptized at the 2024 International Pathfinder Camporee in Wyoming.
In Baltimore, two churches launched the Urban Life Center, a wellness-focused ministry offering community events and spiritual outreach. It’s just one example of how local churches are transforming lives.
Judy R. Glass, NAD treasurer, talks about the impact and importance of media as part of the NAD report on the evening of July 5, 2025, at the General Conference Session. Photo: Ronald Pollard/North American Division
Media: Sharing the Gospel Digitally
Media has become a major mission field for the NAD. More than 13,000 digital disciples have been trained to share their faith online. Live chat features on Adventist.org allow people to ask questions, request prayer, and connect with local churches.
Church media ministries like It Is Written, Breath of Life, Faith For Today, and Voice of Prophecy are helping reach millions through TV, radio, and streaming. Hope Channel Canada has also expanded its reach.
The 10,000 Digital Disciples Initiative, launched in 2021, encourages Adventists to use platforms like TikTok and YouTube to reach others with the gospel. Many churches are still streaming their services, connecting with people both online and in person.
The NAD also sponsors the Sunscreen Film Festival, where young people share their faith through film. Storytelling is being used more than ever to connect with today’s generation.
During the NAD division report to the General Conference Session on July 5, 2025, Kyoshin Ahn, NAD executive secretary, shares insights on how the NAD is mentoring members and leaders. Photo: Ronald Pollard/North American Division
Mentorship: Leading Into the Future
Mentorship is the third strategic focus. From early childhood education through college and young adult leadership programs, the NAD is investing in the next generation. Programs like Pathfinders, Public Campus Ministries, and NextGen Leadership help develop young leaders and grow their faith.
The NAD believes every member should be both mentored and mentoring. This builds stronger churches and prepares the church for the future.
Faith in Action: Serving the Community
During the pandemic, more than 1,500 churches became food distribution centers. Adventist Community Services (ACS) continues to respond to natural disasters, mass shootings, and other emergencies.
NAD healthcare institutions offer quality care and community outreach with compassion and prayer. In March 2025, Dene Adventist Radio’s KDHH 89.5 FM began broadcasting across parts of the Navajo Nation in Arizona. In Canada, the Mamawi Atosketan Native School (MANS) is expanding to better serve Indigenous families in Alberta.
The NAD also leads the global church in sending missionaries and remains committed to outreach at home and abroad.
Giving and Generosity
Despite tough economic times, members across the division gave faithfully. Between 2022 and 2024, more than $3.85 billion in tithes and offerings were received. After the announcement of Pentecost 2025, nearly $550,000 was given in just a few months to support the initiative.
*Together in Mission is the NAD’s quinquennial theme. Read more here: https://www.nadadventist.org/NAD-strategic-focus-together-in-mission.
Photo: Ronald Pollard/North American Division
Curated and edited by Hugh Davis, with assistance from ChatGPT.
