The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) introduced its new president, Paulo Lopes, to the General Conference (GC) Executive Committee during the 2025 Spring Meetings. Lopes, who assumed leadership on April 1, succeeds Michael Kruger, who has transitioned to a new position in Adventist healthcare.
During the introduction, GC president Ted Wilson emphasized ADRA's critical mission and addressed unfounded allegations about the organization's work on social media. Outgoing president Kruger specifically refuted claims that ADRA facilitates illegal immigration or provides improper compensation to board members.
Lopes brings over 30 years of experience with ADRA to his new role. He most recently served as Regional Director for South America, where he led significant growth in humanitarian impact. Lopes expressed commitment to the organization's faith-based identity, stating firmly that "ADRA cannot exist without the Seventh-day Adventist Church."
The leadership transition comes at a challenging time as ADRA faces reduced funding from USAID following recent U.S. government policy changes. Despite these obstacles, Lopes conveyed confidence in the organization's resilience, affirming that "God has always provided for ADRA, and He always will."
Audrey Anderson, GC vice president, presented Kruger with a commemorative timepiece in appreciation for his compassionate leadership and dedicated service to the organization.
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