Washington Metro Area Churches Gather for Unity Day Weekend

The Allegheny East Washington Metro Area came together October 2–3, 2026, for a powerful Unity Day Weekend centered on the theme, “Together for a Greater Tomorrow,” drawn from Ephesians 4:3. The weekend brought churches and members together around a shared commitment to worship, unity, community, and impact.

The celebration began Friday evening at the Bladensburg Seventh-day Adventist Church with worship led by Pastor Darnisha Thomas. The weekend continued Saturday at Greater Saint John Cathedral in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, with separate worship experiences designed to engage children, teens, and adults.

The Saturday program featured Dr. Trevor Kinlock, president of the Allegheny East Conference, as the adult worship speaker. Pastor Amanda Hawley presented the message for the Teen Service, while Pastor Novella Smith provided leadership for the Children’s Church. Dr. Marcus Harris, Washington Metro Area leader, also participated in the weekend’s leadership and worship experience.

A special highlight of the celebration was the Unity Day Mass Choir, joined by the choirs of G.E. Peters Adventist School and Dupont Park Adventist School. Their participation underscored the weekend’s emphasis on bringing churches, generations, and ministries together as one community of faith.

The weekend also included an Education Spotlight featuring G.E. Peters and Dupont Park, highlighting the important role of Adventist education in nurturing young people and strengthening the church’s future.

With the banner message, “One People. One Church. One Purpose,” Unity Day Weekend provided an opportunity for the Washington Metro Area to celebrate its collective identity while looking toward the future. More than simply a series of worship services, the gathering served as a reminder that greater impact is possible when congregations work together in faith, fellowship, and mission.

Together, the Washington Metro Area is building toward a greater tomorrow.