Who are Seventh-day Adventists?

Union College is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. 

That makes our campus family part of a world-wide faith community united and inspired by Jesus Christ. With more than 25 million adherents in 212 countries, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is not among the largest religious groups, but we are one of the most ubiquitous. 

Wherever you go in the world, you are likely to find a congregation of Adventists. And wherever there are Adventist churches, you will also find Adventists serving their communities through ministries such as education, healthcare, and ADRA, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency. The Adventist education system, of which Union College is a part, is the second largest private school system in the world, and Adventist hospitals and clinics are world-renowned for their high standard of care. 

Frequently asked questions about Adventists

As Seventh-day Adventists, we believe we are saved by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). We also believe our faith should manifest itself in our lives as we embody key Biblical principles such as:

  • good stewardship of the earth and our personal resources,
  • honoring God with our bodies and health,
  • and setting aside time to develop a closer relationship with God and serve our neighbors.

Most of the cultural practices that set Adventists apart from our larger communities grew as we found ways to act on these principles in our daily lives.

We've compiled answers to some of the most asked questions about Seventh-day Adventists based on Google's search suggestions. Please note these are not theologically complete answers and do not cite the source texts. We could write dissertations to answer each question completely, but brevity is key in a FAQ. 

Are Seventh-day Adventists __________?

Who was Ellen White?

Do Adventists eat meat? 

Do Adventists eat pork?

Do Adventists believe in hell?

Do Adventists drink coffee?

Do Adventists celebrate Christmas?

Do Adventists believe in the Trinity?

Do Adventists believe in the secret rapture?

Do Adventists celebrate birthdays?

Do Adventists wear jewelry?

Do Adventists drink alcohol?