United African Church Celebrates 30 Years

HOUSTON, TEX. – Houston United African Seventh-day Adventist Church members and guests celebrated the church’s 30th anniversary on June 21.

The church’s journey began in 1995 with a small group of believers who didn’t have a formal name. Today, the church is a vibrant home of worship and community for many, especially within Houston’s African community.

The Sabbath’s day-long festivities welcomed a host of special guests, including Southwestern Union President Carlos Craig, whose message encouraged everyone present to embrace a deeper, more authentic relationship with God. Texas Conference President Elton DeMoraes sent a video message expressing gratitude to the church’s leaders and commending the church for its faithfulness and growth. Texas Conference Executive Secretary David Runnels reminded the church that although they had a great past, they should anticipate a greater future. Okezie Ikpeazu, former governor of Abia State in Nigeria, delivered the keynote address that evening.

A special part of the program was recognizing the founding members, early pastors and leaders at the conference and union levels who supported the church’s journey. The celebrations also included a beautifully designed anniversary brochure with pictures and goodwill messages from church families, as well as a nostalgic gallery showing how the church has grown.

A mini documentary featured interviews with the church’s early officers who shared what those first years were like and what keeps them hopeful about the future. Other remarks challenged members, especially the youth, to embrace the next 30 years with renewed commitment and energy.

As the church celebrated three decades of God’s grace, one thing remained clear: the United African church has not only preserved its heritage, but it has also cast a bold vision for the future, standing united in faith and poised for greater impact. 

The celebration was streamed on the church’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/@UnitedAfricanSDAChurch9191), and can be found by clicking on “Live” for the June 21, 2025 broadcasts.

By Asonye Onwudebe