"I dedicated my life to serve God in His work. At the centennial of the publishing house, I am happy to be part of its history," said Milton Buzin, who has worked in the Buenos Aires Publishing House for nearly 40 years, and is the longest-serving worker
“I dedicated my life to serve God in His work. At the centennial of the publishing house, I am happy to be part of its history,” said Milton Buzin, who has worked in the Buenos Aires Publishing House for nearly 40 years, and is the longest-serving worker still there.
That spirit of service, dedication and longevity mirrors the commitment of Seventh-day Adventists in Argentina, who 100 years ago founded what is now known, in Spanish, as the Asociación Casa Editora Sudamericana. The publishing house celebrated its centennial with three days of programs beginning March 19 and culminating with an open house and sale March 21. Employees, church members and leaders, as well as the community, participated in these events.
Despite recent years of economic turmoil in Argentina and other South American nations, the need for spiritual food seems stronger than ever: In one recent month, literature evangelists working for the publishing house sold more than US$40,000 worth of books, with 360 new Adventist members linked to such book sales in the past year.
“While the economy is improving, people still feel more of a need to be close to God,” explained José Luis Campos, world church publishing director, who participated in the centennial events.
The Buenos Aires Publishing House primarily serves the publishing needs of Adventists in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay. Currently, more than 90 employees write, edit, publish and distribute the message of the gospel from the facility.
Today, the press currently offers more than 300 book titles, seven periodicals and more than 200 children’s materials. Its books and periodicals have been the spearhead for sharing the gospel in all of South America.
“God has guided this house for 100 years. We want to reconsecrate our lives to continue fulfilling the mission,” said general manager Pastor Arbin Lust during a March 20 worship service at the facility.
Adventist world church vice president Ted N. C. Wilson recognized the work that the Buenos Aires Publishing House makes in South America, and noted that “Workers, buildings and machines have changed, but the message and the mission remain unchanged.”
“I don’t think those who initiated this publishing house dreamed of the fruits it has produced, with the persons that have been transformed by its publications,” said Ruy Nagel, president of the church in South America. “I believe that this is the greatest joy we may have: to see how many persons joined the people of God because of the influence of the Buenos Aires Publishing House.”
