The Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has taken a significant step toward preserving and promoting Adventist identity with the groundbreaking of the Adventist Heritage Village at Mountain View College (MVC) in the Philippines.

The initiative will strengthen members’ understanding of church doctrines and history at a time when awareness of Adventist identity is reportedly declining.

Despite the rain, church leaders, historians, and members pressed on with the program, demonstrating their commitment to the project. They dedicated the land to God through fervent prayer, asking for His blessing on the initiative and its role in shaping future generations.

The 10-hectare property, donated by MVC, will house replicas of key historical sites in Adventist history, offering visitors a tangible connection to the church’s pioneers and their mission. SSD leaders, church administrators, and historians gathered to celebrate the official commencement of the project, expressing their hope that it will inspire generations to remain faithful to the church’s message.

Jacinth Adap, treasurer of the Adventist Church in the SSD, emphasized the spiritual significance of preserving Adventist heritage.

“Total dependence on God led our pioneers to endure difficulties, often finding refuge in the ‘Rock of our salvation,’ Jesus Christ,” he said. “As we honor this heritage, we are also encouraged to continue sharing the inspired writings of Ellen G. White, which provide strength and guidance in proclaiming the everlasting gospel.”

Dr. Merlin Burt, director of the Ellen G. White Estate at the General Conference, highlighted the importance of storytelling in shaping faith.

“Theology is important, and God has used stories as a powerful tool to share His love and message with the world,” he said.

The Adventist Heritage Village will feature reconstructed sites representing key moments in the church’s history. Among these is a replica of Ellen G. White’s house in Battle Creek, Michigan, designed to closely resemble the original structure and provide visitors with a glimpse into her life and ministry.

Another key site is a replica of the barn where Hiram Edson experienced his pivotal moment following the Great Disappointment of 1844, illustrating the early Adventist movement’s struggles and the development of the sanctuary doctrine. The village will also include a representation of William Miller’s home, emphasizing the message of Christ’s second coming and its profound impact on the Advent movement.

Additionally, a model of Joseph Bates’ residence will highlight the history of the Three Angels’ messages and the development of the Sabbath truth, underscoring Bates’ role in shaping Adventist beliefs. These structures will serve as educational and inspirational landmarks, allowing visitors to connect with the rich heritage of the Adventist Church.

Roger Caderma, SSD president, hopes that the site will become a center for study, reflection, and revival. Caderma calls for church members to support the initiative through prayer and engagement.

“We pray that the Lord will bless this plan and that all of us will be strengthened in our faith through this endeavor,” he said.

SSD continues to encourage the study of the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing a deeper understanding of Adventist heritage among members worldwide.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.