Pennsylvania Conference

Jared Wickerham/AP Images photographed Quincy and Jessica Sims for the Visitor Magazine

For many people, the internet and social media are platforms to show an idealized version of themselves and rack up likes, hearts and emojis. But when Jessica Sims and other members bravely shared their struggles with the realities of life, they found meaningful connections, heartfelt prayers, much-needed support and opportunities to witness.

Story by Tompaul Wheeler

Quincy's Quest

Jessica and Quincy Sims were photographed at Arsenal Park in Pittsburgh by Jared Wickerham/AP Images

For many people, the internet and social media are platforms to show an idealized version of themselves and rack up likes, hearts and emojis. But when Jessica Sims and other members bravely shared their struggles with the realities of life, they found meaningful connections, heartfelt prayers, much-needed support and opportunities to witness.

Story by Tompaul Wheeler

Amy Thomas, a student at Temple University, tutors third-grader Jodi Glenn as part of the REACH Success after-school program.

Story by LeShawn Browne

Logan is a second-grader who struggled with reading. He lacked confidence in his ability and was way behind other students in his class. Then his mom discovered the REACH Success tutoring program, launched by the REACH Philadelphia church in 2014, which partners volunteers with students who need help with their schoolwork.

Pastors from the Mountain View Conference pray during the Columbia Union Conference's Transformational Evangelism event. Photograph by Brian Tagalog

Story by V. Michelle Bernard / Photos by Brian Tagalog

Historically, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has relied heavily on old-style revival efforts, prophecy seminars in public spaces and other traditional forms of evangelism. In the last 20 years, popular speakers have transmitted their sermons to local churches via satellite—all to share the unique Seventh-day Adventist message.