In an effort to champion the values of Adventist education, Maranatha Adventist Church in Seattle hosted Education Day on March 22, 2025. With the theme "Education for Life and Eternity," the event aimed to celebrate learning as both a spiritual and academic journey and to inspire a renewed commitment to Christian education.
From the opening Sabbath School prayer to the closing evening appeal, the day offered moments of worship, reflection, connection and inspiration. Pedrito Maynard-Reid, Walla Walla University senior associate vice president for diversity and inclusion and theology professor, shared a powerful message titled "Beyond the Alpha and Omega," inviting attendees to consider how true education begins and ends with Christ. His message resonated with the central theme that education isn’t just preparation for a career, but also for eternity.
Throughout the day, students and parents had opportunities to engage with Adventist educators, university recruiters and local leaders who shared insights and encouragement. Exhibit tables and seminars highlighted the many educational paths available within the Adventist system, while also offering practical guidance on scholarships, school culture and faith communities in higher education.
The standout feature of the afternoon was Fruit of Education Rally, where students and alumni offered personal testimonies of how Adventist education had shaped their character, deepened their faith and opened doors of opportunity. Their stories reminded those present that education is more than textbooks and tests. It’s about building identity, cultivating purpose and serving others in a Christ-like manner.
In addition to spiritual and intellectual enrichment, the day included fellowship, music and generosity. Offerings were collected to support scholarships for students pursuing Adventist education as a tangible expression of Maranatha’s commitment to invest in the next generation of Christian scholars.
While the schedule was full, the purpose of the day was simple: to recommit to the calling of Adventist education. Maranatha’s leadership hopes this new annual event will continue to grow each year, not just in attendance, but also in impact.
“Education Day was a call to remember the sacred responsibility we have as a church to nurture the minds and hearts of our young people,” said Byron Dulan, Maranatha education coordinator and event organizer. “It’s not just about getting our children into classrooms — it’s about helping them grow into the people God created them to be.”
As the day ended, it became clear that Adventist education matters, now more than ever. At Maranatha, the journey of learning — for life and for eternity — is one that the whole church is embracing and ready to walk together.
John Leis, Washington Conference public campus ministries director, shares insights on how students can strengthen their faith during their college years.
Laurie Yoshihara, Puget Sound Adventist Academy and Kirkland Adventist School principal, encourages students and parents to seek opportunities to be part of Christian education.
Alumni from a variety of Adventist schools share their testimony during Fruit of Education Rally.
