Potomac Conference Holds Fourth Quinquennial Constituency Meeting

Story by Debra Anderson

The Potomac Conference held its Fourth Quinquennial Constituency Meeting on September 28 at the Sligo church in Takoma Park, Md. Nearly 800 delegates gathered to discuss and vote on matters essential to the future of the conference. Constituents considered key agenda items, affirmed the progress of the past term and voted for all current administrators to continue serving in their roles.

During his remarks, Charles A. Tapp, president of the Potomac Conference, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve another term. He reminded delegates of the breadth of the territory and the importance of working together as one body. “I am not the president of the DMV. I am not the president of Southwest Virginia. I am the president of the Potomac Conference,” Tapp said. “When we move together, beyond the walls, our reach grows wider, our witness grows stronger and our love becomes more visible.”

Jose Vazquez, returning vice president for administration, reported on membership growth and the strength of the conference’s diversity. Comprised of more than 120 nationalities and 193 congregations, Potomac’s membership surpassed 40,000. Vazquez stated that this diversity was not a challenge to overcome but a gift that strengthened the shared mission of building healthy, disciple-making churches and schools. “Our variety of backgrounds is not a barrier but a blessing,” he said. “Together we are stronger in witness, richer in culture and deeper in faith.”

Karen Senecal, returning vice president for finance, reported on the conference’s financial health, highlighting God’s faithfulness through the stewardship of its members. She noted that Potomac had received $200 million in tithe during the past five years, reflecting the commitment of both longtime and new believers. Summarizing her report, Senecal stated, “Each gift, whether large or small, represents an act of faith that continues to strengthen the mission of the conference.”

Looking ahead, Tapp introduced a vision for Adventist Christian education in the territory. “I will form a think tank of leaders, educators and lay people to ensure Adventist Christian education is accessible and affordable,” he said. “Truly … nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come, and that time is now.” His appeal underscored the conference’s commitment to investing in its young people and ensuring that every child has access to Christ-centered learning.

The constituency meeting not only celebrated past successes but also set a forward-looking agenda for the next five years. With renewed leadership, financial strength and a growing membership, the Potomac reaffirmed its mission of moving beyond the walls to share the gospel with its diverse and expanding community.