Sowing Seeds, Reaping the Harvest

This report provides information under spirit-led leadership of Garth Gabriel, who was president of the Lake Region Conference from July 2022 to January 1, 2026. Abraham Henry, along with the administrative team, had the privilege to support him at the time of these accomplishments. The Lake Region Conference is made up of more than 32,000 members in 111 churches, reflecting a rich and historic African American Adventist legacy alongside vibrant African, Filipino, Haitian, Hispanic and Korean-speaking congregations. 

Our vision is to be a united conference of churches passionately engaged in mission and ministry as we anticipate the return of Jesus Christ. Our mission is to make disciples, share the gospel in the context of Revelation 14:6–12, and prepare people for the soon return of our Savior. This shared calling continues to shape the ministries across the conference. 

Camp Wagner has continued to receive important upgrades that strengthen its ministry to families, youth and local churches. Improvements include upgraded RV slabs, a resurfaced basketball court, and the installation of central air and speakers in the cafeteria. The historic red cabins have begun remodeling, while other cabins were fully refurbished with new roofing and siding. A new entry gate and camp sign were also installed, creating a more welcoming and functional environment for all who use the camp. 

Lake Region remains committed to strengthening Adventist education. Through the leadership of Deirdre Garnett, superintendent of education, all schools received smart boards in 2025.  

Shiloh Christian School completed a new library and installed a new gym floor, enhancing both learning and student life. Peterson-Warren Academy underwent building updates as well. South Suburban School also faced a major heating challenge, and the conference was generous in providing financial assistance towards resolving the heating need, made possible through an anonymous donor.  

Alongside these improvements, the conference continues to move forward under a shared strategic plan developed through a collaborative process involving administrators, pastors, department leaders, Bible workers and Executive Committee members.  

The mission driven plan guides decision-making by focusing on spiritual vitality, leadership responsibility, discipleship, education, and mission engagement. It calls the conference to strengthen Christ-centered ministry, build trust and accountability in leadership, nurture members through discipleship and mentoring, renew commitment to Adventist education, and engage members in service using their gifts while building healthy churches and preparing people for Christ’s soon return. 

This commitment to growth is reflected in the conference’s investment in grant writing. With a dedicated grant writer in place, more than $2 million has been secured to support improvements to school and church buildings and after-school programs across the conference, expanding what is possible for ministry and infrastructure development. 

Lake Region has also seen significant spiritual growth through evangelism. During Pentecost 2025, a North American Division-wide initiative, the conference recorded more than 630 baptisms, the highest total reported in 10 years, with additional reports still coming in from the 109 churches that conducted evangelistic meetings. 

These baptisms reflect a conference-wide spiritual awakening. Students have led outreach in schools; churches that have not seen baptisms in years are rejoicing again; and congregations are becoming more engaged in mission. 

Lake Region’s full-time conference evangelist, Cody Miller, played a key role in Pentecost 2025, especially following the passing of ministerial director Kenneth Elliott. Pastor Miller coordinated trainings, coached churches, and helped lead evangelistic efforts in cities such as Minneapolis and Indianapolis. The revival was marked not only by powerful preaching, but by intentional acts of compassion that opened doors to lasting transformation. 

Leadership presence further strengthened the revival effort. Henry attended several Pentecost 2025 programs, offering visible support and encouragement that uplifted members and visitors, reinforcing the unity and shared mission of the conference family. 

This season of revival has reaffirmed a powerful truth: God multiplies the harvest. Communities are being impacted, churches are reconnecting with their neighborhoods and individuals who had never stepped inside a sanctuary are now becoming part of God’s family. 

The conference also continues to invest in young adult leadership development. Through the work of James Doggette, young adults have been equipped through leadership conferences, retreats and summits, preparing them to lead now. 

Youth ministry has also seen momentum. In the Detroit area, a community Pathfinder club led by Sandrew King began in a non-Adventist school and has already contributed to 28 baptisms, demonstrating the impact of creative, community-based ministry. 

As Lake Region moves forward, the conference remains anchored in the mission of Matthew 24:14: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” (NIV) 

Abraham Henry is president of Lake Region Conference.