On Sunday, November 3, 2024, AdventHealth leaders presented a portrait of Charles Bradford at the North American Division Year-End Meeting in Columbia, Maryland, United States.
The painting — Preaching the Word — was commissioned by AdventHealth in 2000. It was designed to honor Bradford’s leadership while serving on the AdventHealth board and to celebrate his treasured friendships with former CEO Mardian Blair and others.
Bradford was the first president and first African American president for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists (NAD). He took office as president of the NAD in 1979 and served until 1990. Those who knew him well said that he was anointed by God to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ with boldness. He handled controversial issues with profound insight and uncommon wisdom.
“Elder Charles Bradford was a trailblazer, a pioneer, a visionary leader. But deep down in his bones—or perhaps in that invisible place inside of him that caused his heart to beat for 96 years, that activated his deepest and most cogent of thoughts, he was a deeply passionate and effective preacher whose life and ministry left an indelible mark on the Seventh-day Adventist Church and far beyond,” said Gary Thurber, president of the Mid-America Union Conference and AdventHealth board chair. “His commitment to social equity resonated deeply with many as he addressed issues of race, service, and the importance of love and compassion. His preaching not only strengthened others spiritually but also promoted justice and healing in a broken world.”
The portrait by Nathan Greene pictures Bradford, Bible in hand, preaching from a pulpit that was once used at Pioneer Memorial Church in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Pictured by his side is Jesus, with a hand raised toward heaven and a dove flying overhead. According to Garrett Caldwell, executive director of external communications at AdventHealth, the canvas represents that when Bradford preached, he was inspired by the life of Christ, the words of the Bible, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
The canvas had been on display at the health system’s former headquarters in Winter Park, Florida, and again in its current Altamonte Springs location. In presenting the work of art, AdventHealth leaders believe that many will be inspired by Bradford’s legacy. “Let us honor Elder Bradford’s memory by our commitment to the fundamental work of giving voice to the good news of salvation,” Thurber said. “May we carry forward the vision he set before us, ensuring that we continue to bring a message of love, truth, and hope to the world.”
The artwork will be displayed in the Charles E. Bradford Conference Center, where the North American Division holds its annual year-end meeting.
The original article of this story was posted on the North American Division news site.
