Community of Hope Emphasizes Community Engagement

Community of Hope church members in Takoma Park, Md., recently invited David Trone, United States representative from Maryland's 6th congressional district, for a fireside chat.

The day began with a powerful sermon delivered by Derrick Green, a political strategist and founder of the Interfaith Action Movement, an organization that addresses underserved and marginalized communities' spiritual, social and economic needs.

Trone deemed it essential to reach out to the church community to share practical ways the government and faith communities can work together to address trauma caused by systemic racism. He closed his remarks by encouraging those attending to consider running for political office to ensure their concerns are being addressed. The government, he says, should be reflective of America's diverse cultures, communities and churches.

Host Paul Graham, pastor of the Community of Hope church and the conference’s assistant to the vice president for Pastoral Ministries for Revitalization, says he was inspired by the congressman's words, sharing, “Our church will reach the community through faith-based initiatives for healthy living, financial awareness and fellowship beyond the walls of the church and the Sabbath. We'll do that by partnering with other churches to help fill the needs of our neighbors. That's why we're here!"

Teens Inspire Peers With Radio Show

For more than two years, pastors and teachers in the Potomac Conference have been intentional in moving beyond the physical walls of their buildings to reach those in their communities. Now, young people are also getting on board.

Alyssa Audain, Nick Bates and Kelsey Bartholmae, teens from the Chesapeake (Va.) church, wanted to provide wanted to provide something for their peers to do on Saturday afternoons while having a spiritual impact on their lives. As a result, they created a radio show called Last Light, aired on WPMH 100.1.

The name originates from the idea of Seventh-day Adventist youth being a light in the darkness. Partnering with Adventists and non-Adventists, the teens have made Last Light a place where community friends can be open and honest. With the help of moderators Joseph and Jazmine Thomas and Alexander Roper, as well as producer Rick Brennan, the teens have conversed on such topics as “Faith in Hard Times,” “Is Beauty Everything?” and “The Sabbath.” With an average of 2,000 listeners, Last Light is the only teen show in the Hampton Roads area and has recently begun podcasting on Spotify and Apple Music.

The young people feel blessed by God to have the opportunity to reach their peers, and most importantly, engage youth in meaningful ministry on Saturdays.

Visit wpmhradio.com for more information.

Kelsey Bartholmae (front center), co-creator of Last Light, aired on WPMH 100.1, takes a selfie with moderator Jazmine Thomas, producer Rick Brennan and moderator Joseph Thomas.