From April 28 to 30, 2025, Zaoksky Adventist University (ZAU) hosted a training conference on pastoral internship, organized by the Pastoral Association of the Euro-Asia Division (ESD).

The initiative brought together nearly 50 church leaders, theology faculty, and active ministers to discuss strategies for mentoring and equipping young pastors across the division.

The goal of the event was to enhance the quality of training for theology graduates and support the church’s continued growth in proclaiming the three angels’ message. Administrators from the Euro-Asia Division and ZAU, union-level Pastoral Association secretaries, faculty, and pastor-mentors convened for the three-day gathering.

ESD president Mikhail Kaminsky opened the conference with a spiritual appeal, encouraging participants to invest in the next generation of spiritual leaders. The event also featured seminars by ZAU teachers and ESD departmental directors.

Strengthening the Mentorship Model

Key topics included the spiritual dimension of mentoring, the role and image of the modern pastor-mentor, and the current structure and future direction of pastoral internships in the ESD territory.

Roundtable discussions allowed participants to engage in open dialogue, share regional perspectives, and identify priorities for developing pastoral mentorship programs.

Attendees reflected on insights from Ellen G. White, who emphasized the importance of mentorship in ministry: “No one should be sent out alone. Beginners should stand side by side with experienced ministers who can instruct them” (Evangelism, p. 684).

A quote from psychologist Peter F. Wilson was also referenced, highlighting mentorship as “one of the most complex and developmentally important relationships” in a young person’s life, defined not by formal roles but by the transformative function it serves.

Moving Forward

Participants expressed appreciation for the relevance and openness of the conversations, noting that such meetings offer valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth. The event concluded with a shared commitment to hold similar gatherings regularly to strengthen mentorship and internship practices in pastoral ministry throughout the ESD.

The original article was published on the Euro-Asia Division Russian news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.