The 62nd General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist World Church was held in St. Louis, Missouri, from July 2 – 13, 2025, under the theme, “Jesus Is Coming, I Will Go.” It is estimated that over 2,000 delegates and approximately 100,000 members and special guests attended. Delegates gathered daily to vote on church business, discuss the church’s global mission, and elect leaders.

It was during the election of leaders that the membership of the Atlantic Caribbean Union, particularly the South Bahamas Conference, experienced an unforgettable and momentous event. History unfolded as Dr. Leonard A Johnson was elected as one of seven General Vice Presidents of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Dr. Johnson, a son of the soil, is the first Bahamian who has ever held such a prestigious position at this level. As past president of the Atlantic Caribbean Union, as well as the South Bahamas Conference, we proudly salute him and his wife, Sis. Denise Johnson and their entire family on this esteemed achievement. To God be the glory, great things He has done!

Dr. Johnson and his wife, Sis. Denise made an official visit to the Bahamas from August 25 - 31, 2025.  This visit marks a pivotal step in strengthening the bonds between the global church leadership and local congregations, and reflects a commitment to unity, spiritual growth, and mission advancement that defines the Adventist movement worldwide.

The General Conference, headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, serves as the highest administrative body of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, overseeing a membership of over 23 million individuals across more than 212 countries and territories.  The election of a new General Vice President is always a tremendous milestone, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the leadership team. As a new Vice President, Dr. Johnson brings with him a wealth of experience in church administration, mission work, and pastoral ministry, earning respect and admiration throughout the global Adventist community.

During their visit to the Bahamas, Dr. Johnson and Sis. Denise have been warmly welcomed by regional church leaders, pastors, and members. Their itinerary included meetings with local church administrators, visits to Adventist educational and care institutions for the elderly, and interactive sessions with church members.

On Sabbath, August 30, 2025, Dr. Johnson will visit his home church, the Grant’s Town Seventh-day Adventist Church. During the divine service, he will deliver a powerful message emphasizing the importance of faith, unity, and service to encourage all Adventists to remain steadfast in their commitment to the church’s mission of sharing the gospel and serving humanity.

On Sabbath afternoon, at 5:30 pm, at the Hillview Church on Tonique Williams-Darling Highway, an opportunity will be provided for prayers, songs, testimonies of thanksgiving, and dialogue on pressing issues facing the church, such as youth engagement, community outreach, and the role of technology in mission work. Dr. Johnson will participate in an open forum with both young and senior members, answering questions and sharing insights about the future of the church.

It is our prayer that this visit of the newly elected General Vice President will leave a lasting impression on the youth, as well as the older members of the Adventist community in the South Bahamas Conference. We pray that this visit will also strengthen connections and inspire renewed dedication to the church’s mission.

As the Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to grow and evolve globally, it is anticipated that such visits from our leaders will continue to reinforce the importance of unity, leadership, and active engagement at all levels of the global church family.


Pastor Kenny Deveaux is the current president of the South Bahamas Conference, 
which comprises of the southern islands of The Bahamas.