Unity Day at Berea

Since its inception, the South Carolina Ministerial Association (SCMA) has made significant progress in bringing together hands and hearts across South Carolina’s different churches. “Unity Sabbath” is proof that these efforts continue to flourish. Pastor Spencer Wade and Pastor Hastings Newbill (affectionately known as Monte) played pivotal roles in coordinating this special event, working alongside the pastoral team at the Berea Seventh-day Adventist Church, namely First Elder, Holness Samuels, Elder E.T. Taylor, and the recently installed Pastor Richard Palmer, Jr.

Berea Seventh-day Adventist Church, often referred to as “Sumter Berea” for clarity, has weathered many challenges in recent years. The church experienced frequent pastoral changes over three years, followed by a period in which it relied solely on its Elders for leadership. During an almost six-month stretch without a functioning HVAC system, God’s provision enabled the congregation to use the church’s Activity Center. Despite these obstacles, Sumter Berea demonstrated resilience in reaching the pinnacle of hosting the SCMA’s Unity Day just two weeks after moving back into the sanctuary.

Unity was on full display as pastors from across South Carolina’s four regions, namely the Upstate, Midlands, Pee Dee, and Low Country, joined with conference officials such as Pastor Calvin Preston, Dr. Ralph Peay, and others. The day began with Sabbath School, moderated in a baton-style format by Pastor Marquis Jackson, Pastor Brian Bates, and Pastor Chris Crumbie, which focused on the theme of Reconciliation & Hope. The vibrant Worship Experience followed, featuring musical selections from the Berea Mass Choir and Maranatha Fellowship Choir (Greenville, SC) and a Praise Dance by Bethel SDA’s G-Squad. Education was also emphasized, with efforts to support two state educational institutions: Berea Junior Academy (Sumter, SC) and Norma D. Richards Adventist Christian Academy (Pageland, SC).

These events set the tone for the powerful message delivered by Pastor John Coaxum, also a licensed clinical psychologist, who spoke under the theme “Great Expectations.” Pastor Coaxum opened by expressing gratitude to his parents, to the conference pastors, especially Pastor Wade, President of the SCMA, and to the leadership of the South Atlantic Conference for their outstanding work. He then led the congregation in a reading from Acts 12:11-16, building his message around four central themes. First, he emphasized the power of united prayer within the church, reminding listeners that even in seemingly impossible situations, like Peter’s imprisonment, God responds in miraculous ways when believers pray specifically and earnestly. Pastor Coaxum also highlighted the church as a vital support system, noting how the simple act of knowing others are praying for you can offer great encouragement. He called the congregation to change their expectations by truly believing in God’s power and the hope of Jesus’ return, when all sorrow and pain will end. Finally, Pastor Coaxum concluded with a heartfelt appeal for members to commit or recommit their lives to Jesus, assuring them of God’s blessings and urging them to pray with sincere faith.

Pastor Monte Newbill hosted the discussion, joined by Elder Calvin Preston, Ms. Lakeshia Oston, Dr. Abel Bartley, and Elder Ralph Peay. They explored the history, impact, and future of regional conferences within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, especially as they relate to African American communities.

The panel discussion provided a comprehensive look at the origin, growth, and continued relevance of regional conferences within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It began with a reflection on the 1943 tragedy involving Lucy Bard, whose denial of medical care led to the creation of regional conferences to ensure Black Adventists could minister to their communities. The panel highlighted how, despite limited resources, these conferences grew rapidly, established vital institutions like Pine Forge Academy, and became mission-efficient, generating over $230 million in tithe in 2025 alone. Speakers emphasized the importance of empowering young people by building genuine relationships and sharing authentic life experiences, as well as the need to teach church history in engaging ways, such as stories of pioneers like Irene Morgan. The conversation addressed ongoing challenges for inclusion and called for further restructuring to achieve financial and administrative equity. Elder Peay stressed the necessity of maintaining the church’s unique identity and inclusive spirit, while Pastor Newbill encouraged each member, especially African American Adventists, to embrace their role and identity within the church community.

Those who could not attend are encouraged to experience Unity Day by visiting Sumter Berea SDA Church’s YouTube channel. Appreciation is extended to Pastor Ishmael S. Wade for sharing the God-given vision that inspired this event.