The General Conference (GC) Executive Committee approved a plan from the Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Committee to translate the writings of Ellen G. White (EGW) through a new initiative titled Sharing the Gift of Light 2.0.
The plan, presented by Merlin Bert, director of the EGW Estate, and Michael Sokupa, associate director, aims to make White’s writings accessible to as many people as possible worldwide through the use of artificial intelligence in translation efforts.
“Ellen White herself was very intentional about the importance of her writings being translated into other languages,” Bert said. “Beginning in 1899, she devoted her royalties for international publications entirely to translation.”
The plan builds upon the original Sharing the Gift of Light project (2020–2025), which sought to translate 16 of White’s books into the world’s major languages. This new five-year phase, running from 2025 to 2030, will take a more focused and intentional approach.
Both Bert and Sokupa expressed hope for strong engagement from divisions and territories as this major undertaking begins.
Reaching the World
Sokupa presented a series of slides highlighting the project’s key points, noting that it had already received financial approval at the 2024 Annual Council.
The plan outlines four major goals:
Translate 83 books into six major world languages: Chinese, French, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Swahili.
Translate 35 books into nine secondary world languages: German, Hindi, Indonesian, Kinyarwanda, Korean, Malagasy, Romanian, Tagalog and Ukrainian.
Translate 16 core books into 54 priority languages, excluding those already mentioned.
Translate Steps to Christ, The Great Controversy and The Desire of Ages into 352 mission languages.
A new AI technology facility will be introduced to accelerate translation efforts, and an overall coordinator from the SOP Committee will be appointed for each division or territory.
“The ultimate goal is for many more people to be able to read and study Ellen White’s writings in their own language, thus strengthening the world mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” Sokupa said.
The project aims to make all translations accessible in both print and digital formats. Sokupa noted that feedback is still being received and that additional languages may be added to maximize global reach.
Upholding the Gift of Prophecy
At the conclusion of the presentation, Committee Chair and GC President Ted Wilson expressed interest in showcasing the translation facilities in the future. He also shared his appreciation for the church’s strong participation in the circulation and promotion of the Spirit of Prophecy.
“Some people accuse the GC of not holding up the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy,” Wilson said. “But let me tell you, these are the main guiding forces—through the power of the Holy Spirit—for the church.”
The plan passed with overwhelming support, with final voting results of 149–1.
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