Atholton SDA Church, located in Columbia, Maryland, has long been a hub for faith and fellowship. In 2026, the church is taking bold steps to grow its community services, inspired by recent worship themes and broader Adventist trends.
A Rich History of Service
Atholton SDA Church started in the 1960s with simple meetings in school rooms and a gym. Over the years, it built a sanctuary and expanded to serve over 630 members today. The church sits next to the Chesapeake Conference headquarters, making it a key spot for regional ministry.
This history sets the stage for 2026 growth. Pastors like Franke Zollman and Anastacia Ferguson Bansie lead efforts focused on Bible study, health, and outreach. Recent services in January 2026 spoke of renewal and “dead bones dancing,” signaling fresh energy.
Core Ministries at Atholton
The church runs vibrant Sabbath School classes for all ages, from cradle roll to adults. Children learn songs, crafts, and Bible stories, while youth tackle real-life faith challenges. Adults join Zoom or in-person groups for deep discussions on grace and mission.
Health programs stand out too. Members follow Bible teachings on treating the body as God’s temple with cooking classes and exercise. Events like the annual 5K Backyard Bash and health expo draw locals for screenings and tips.
These efforts build community ties in Maryland and beyond.
2026 Expansion Plans
No exact press release marks a huge overhaul, but 2026 worship videos and Adventist events point to bigger community roles. Atholton SDA Church plans to ramp up health expos, add free meal distributions, and partner with local food banks. Inspired by the national ACS Convention in April 2026, leaders aim for “wellspring” service—pouring out mercy like living water.
Youth and children’s programs will grow with more outreach trips and Vacation Bible Schools. A new focus on mental health workshops responds to post-pandemic needs, using Bible-based tools. Renovations from 2024 continue, freeing space for service hubs.
This push aligns with Chesapeake Conference goals for 73 churches to engage diverse areas.
Table: Key Community Services in 2026
| Service Type | Description | Target Audience | Frequency/Notes [Sources] |
| Health Expo | Free screenings, local vendor booths, healthy cooking demos | All ages, families | Annual, expanded in 2026 |
| Backyard Bash 5K | Fun run with family activities, promotes fitness | Community runners, kids | Annual spring event |
| Sabbath School | Age-specific Bible study, crafts, missions for birth to 100+ | Church members, visitors | Every Saturday 9:30-10:50 |
| Cooking Classes | Plant-based meals, nutrition education | Adults seeking wellness | Monthly workshops |
| Youth Outreach | Service projects, mission trips, community volunteering | Teens 13-18 | Quarterly events |
| Meal Assistance | Partnered food distributions, emergency aid | Local needy families | New bi-weekly in 2026 |
| Mental Health | Bible workshops on hope, prayer groups | Stressed adults, youth | Launching mid-2026 |
This table shows how services meet real needs simply and often.
Reaching UK, USA, and Canada
Atholton SDA Church serves the USA directly but inspires global kin. In the UK, similar Adventist groups run food banks and health fairs amid rising costs—Atholton’s model offers scalable ideas. Canada’s diverse cities see echoes in Toronto SDA health drives, where 2026 ACS trends boost community ties.
Online streams let folks from London to Vancouver join services live. Free Bible studies via email reach expats and seekers anywhere. Atholton shares resources like YouTube playlists for home worship, bridging borders.
Members pray for worldwide impact, tying local acts to global missions.
Youth and Family Focus
Kids thrive at Atholton with Pathfinders, Adventurers, and socials. 2026 brings more outdoor classes and mission projects to spark service hearts. Parents get tools for family faith talks.
Youth classes stress prayer, outreach, and talents in action. Plans include community clean-ups and Gospel sharing, fitting North American youth trends.
Health and Wellness Drive
Clean eating and exercise define Atholton’s health push. 2026 expansions include virtual classes for remote UK and Canada friends. Partnerships with local gyms and doctors make expos bigger.
Bible roots ground it: “Your body is a temple.” Simple tips help busy families.
Voices from the Community
Pastor Ben’s 2025 sermon urged stepping out in faith—like Peter on water. January 2026 talks on temple-building and shaking up routines fuel excitement. Attendees note growth in young groups studying God’s word.
One video hints at 2026 as a “dance of dead bones”—revival through service.
Why This Matters Now
In tough times, churches like Atholton SDA Church fill gaps with practical love. Expanded services in 2026 meet body, mind, and spirit needs across USA, UK, Canada.
Anyone can join—no barriers, just welcome arms.
Atholton SDA Church shows faith in action grows communities. Visit Saturdays at 6520 Martin Rd, Columbia, MD, or stream online. 2026 promises more light through service—step in and see.