Administrators from North American Division Gather to Discuss Tithe Sharing, Mission, and Next Steps

Administrators from across the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church convened in Chicago, Illinois, on September 30-October 1, 2026, for a two-day meeting focused on tithe sharing, mission strategy, and organizational alignment. Approximately 200 participants, representing conferences, unions, and the North American Division (NAD), gathered to discuss how the church’s financial resources are managed and how they can better support local ministries and global mission efforts.

The meeting aimed to foster a shared understanding of tithe stewardship, a core aspect of Adventist financial practice. The NAD leadership emphasized that tithe, considered a sacred responsibility, flows through the church’s structure with the local conference serving as the central storehouse. Discussions centered on how funds are distributed, the sustainability of current financial models, and potential improvements to ensure resources are used effectively to advance the church’s mission.

Worship and prayer opened both days of the meeting, reflecting the Adventist emphasis on spiritual foundations. Randy Roberts, senior pastor of the Loma Linda University Church, highlighted the importance of adapting methods and structures while maintaining the constancy of the gospel. Tricia Payne, associate director of the Lake Region Conference, added that mission success requires not only planning and resources but also the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

G. Alexander Bryant, president of the North American Division, noted that most attendees had entered their current roles within the past four years. He shared that NAD officers had engaged with union leaders prior to the meeting, gaining insights into the needs of conferences. Bryant stressed that discussions about tithe percentages should be grounded in the purpose of tithe sharing, which is to support the broader mission of the church.

The meeting included designated discussion periods where administrators could relate the presented information to their specific regions and identify areas requiring further attention. These sessions aimed to align organizational responsibilities with the church’s mission, ensuring that resources are used efficiently to strengthen local congregations and expand global outreach.

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