The congress featured several cultural and musical performances representing Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Ukraine. Attendees were encouraged to participate in traditional-dress parades, flag displays, and national anthem performances representing each country.

The musical performances were presented by diverse musical groups and choirs. The 50-voice Association of Adventist Immigrant Communities Choir, the Sacavém Church choir, the Talatona Metropolitana choir (Portugal extension), Vocal Ezer, Blend Acapella, Vocal Vibes, Belina Neves Vocal Group, and Vocal Kumi were among the presenters.

The congress also featured a Friday night vespers program by Júlio Carlos Santos; Sabbath school discussions led by Hernâni Moura, Desconte Michael Mandinga, and Eugénio Mota; and a church service by José Lagoa, president of the Portuguese Union of Churches Conference.

The Adventist Immigrant Communities Congress meetings were hosted by Amália Santana, Jaime Molossande, and Belina Neves.

Participants said the Sabbath panel "Immigrant Resilience and Adaptability in a Portuguese Historical Context," moderated by Molossande, was of particular significance. Artur Machado, director of the Adventist Church in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region; Dr. Cármen Maciel, executive director of Adventist Development and Relief Agency Portugal; Dr. Patrícia Santiago, representative of the Division of Equality and Citizenship within the Department of Equality and Social Development at the Loures Municipal Council; and Lagoa were among the panelists. Each panelist represented the church, civic, or non-profit sectors.

Machado underscored the congress's significance and the strong involvement at the congregational level. He proposed initiating discussions with Portuguese Union leadership to foster expanded community involvement in future events, emphasizing a shared human identity as migrants.

Organizers said the Adventist Immigrant Communities Congress achieved its primary objectives of facilitating spiritual fellowship, cultural exchange, and unity among participating congregations.

The original article was published on the Portuguese Union of Churches Conference news site.

Samuel Santos, director of GAGC, described the concert as a historic moment.

“The opportunity to present the gospel through concert has been a historic moment for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Scottish Mission,” he said. “This open door to share so freely about God and His love with people who may have heard our message for the first time is a testimony to God’s continual leading and blessing of the outreach efforts of the Glasgow Adventist Gospel Choir.”

While conducting, Santos noticed members of the audience recording the concert on video. Some of those recordings were later shared online.

“We can never tell just how far-reaching its influence will be,” he said, “but we know that God has a way of multiplying every seed, and I am grateful for the privilege of serving Him in Scotland.”

Following the concert, audience members spoke with choir members about the impact of music. Audience members expressed their appreciation for the songs’ message about Jesus. These interactions opened opportunities for further conversations about the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

One mother shared that her daughter, who normally struggles to stay settled and attentive for long periods, remained calm and engaged throughout the concert while listening to the gospel songs.

Claudiu Popescu, founder of GAGC, said, “Launching the global OneVoice27 initiative within a historic space like St. Giles’ Cathedral reminds us that the gospel message remains dynamically alive, even within a deeply secular, postmodern culture."

Papescu said, “In a society where traditional religious frameworks are often met with indifference, music serves as a universal and dignified language, a strategic bridge that bypasses cultural barriers and touches the human heart directly."

For Popescu, GAGC shows how church members of all ages can take an active part in mission. “Watching 40 of our members, spanning multiple generations, lift their voices to plant seeds of hope among tourists and local residents demonstrates that when we step out in innovative, Spirit-led ways, God opens doors."

“We are deeply humbled to represent the global Church’s vision right here on the front lines of the Scottish Mission,” he said.

Founded in 1124, St. Giles’ Cathedral has been a place of worship for more than 900 years and has stood at the heart of significant moments in Scotland’s religious and national history. It served as John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation and, more recently, hosted events marking the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the presentation of the Honors of Scotland to King Charles III.

The original article was published on the Scottish Mission news site.

The campaign was led by Adventist World Radio (AWR) with the participation of the Indian Ocean Union Conference (IOUC), the Central Malagasy Conference (CMC), and Madagascar's Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).

The first phase of the campaign ran from August 25–28 at Barea Mahamasina Stadium, where a large health fair offered free consultations and services. Around 600 international and local volunteers, including doctors, nurses, health professionals, and translators, received and treated more than 9,000 patients during the event.

The second phase of the campaign moved into surrounding neighborhoods and communities. For eight days, evangelistic meetings were held at numerous sites under the theme "The Key to Biblical Prophecy." Each evening's presentations addressed prophecy, salvation, hope, and the second coming of Christ.

On September 5, 566 people chose to be baptized, marking the close of the Madagascar for Christ campaign.

For organizers and local congregations, the campaign's conclusion marks the start of a new phase as they welcome and support newly baptized members on their faith journeys.

The original article was published on the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division news site.

LLUCH ranked 7th in California and 8th in the Pacific Region, earning national recognition in neonatology, pediatric cardiology and heart surgery, pediatric nephrology, and pediatric urology. 

Peter Baker, senior vice president and administrator of LLUCH, praised employees for earning this recognition and continuing to deliver high standards of care.

“These achievements reflect the dedication of our employees, who are committed to providing world-class, faith-based care to every child we serve,” he said. “Whether in direct patient care or behind the scenes, their work enables us to provide exceptional experiences for every child and every family we serve.” 

For the 2026-2027 rankings, U.S. News and RTI International, a North Carolina-based research firm, collected and analyzed data from 114 children’s hospitals and surveyed thousands of pediatric specialists. Children’s hospitals awarded a “Best” designation excelled at factors such as clinical outcomes, compliance with established best practices, and level and quality of hospital resources directly related to patient care. 

The original article was published on the Loma Linda University Health news site.

Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Romania became a partner to Babadag City Hall following the signing of a financial contract providing more than US$1 million (4,879,861.98 RON) for the project "Home care services for the elderly in the city of Babadag."

The project will run for 40 months (September 2026–December 2029) and aims to provide home care services to the elderly, improving their quality of life and helping them safely remain in their community.

"For ADRA Romania, the project 'Home Care Services for the Elderly in the City of Babadag' represents a natural continuation of the organization's experience and expertise in the field of 'Assisting Disadvantaged Social Categories,'" said Robert Georgescu, executive director of ADRA Romania. "Through the support provided by the non-reimbursable funding, ADRA Romania will be able to stand alongside, in the coming years, more than 100 people from marginalized communities in the city of Babadag, offering them care services, support, and attention, as well as the opportunity to preserve their dignity and autonomy."

"Caring for people means more than intervening in the face of an immediate need," he continued. "It means being present, listening, supporting, and contributing to the building of communities where every person feels valued and included. Thus, through the projects it implements and under the motto 'Justice. Compassion. Love,' ADRA Romania continues to transform the support it offers into opportunities for a better life, promoting social inclusion, human values, and respect for the dignity of every person."

Valentina Sturzu-Cozorici, program director at ADRA Romania, said, "On this occasion, we are turning our attention to the needs of the elderly residents of Babadag, offering them personalized home care services so that we may know them to be healthy, active, and happy.

"Our organization is once again joining local authorities, bringing value to community interventions and strengthening the public-private partnership. We are glad to be close to those who need us and to contribute together to a better life for the elderly of the community. For them, the support offered can mean more than concrete assistance: it can represent a chance at inclusion, autonomy, safety, and a life lived with dignity."

The project's goal is to provide accredited social services for 106 vulnerable elderly people and strengthen services that encourage them to participate in an active social life, preventing isolation and institutionalization.

The project was financed by the Ministry of Investments and European Projects through the Social Inclusion and Dignity Program, Action 6.1 - Home care services for the elderly.

The original article was published on the ADRA Romania news site.

During a national chaplaincy gathering in Bogotá, Colombia, on August 26, the Ministry of the Interior invited Adventist leaders to share the Church’s experience in chaplaincy training and asked the Colombia Adventist University to develop an academic proposal that could serve leaders from different religious denominations.

Representatives of several faith communities attended the National Chaplaincy Meeting and Interreligious Humanitarian Network of Colombia, which focused on strengthening spiritual support for people and families facing crises.

The Adventist delegation was led by Iván H. Omaña, Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries director and president of the Adventist Chaplaincy Institute at the General Conference, who served as a guest speaker.

Joining him were Milena Rey Alba, representing Adventist University of Colombia; Mauricio Buitrago, chaplaincy ministries director for the North Colombian Union Conference; Jair Flores, religious liberty director for the North Colombian Union Conference; and Ludwing Morales, chaplaincy ministries director for the South Colombian Union Conference.

Together, they shared the church’s experience in chaplaincy training and explored how Adventist educational resources could help equip religious leaders to provide spiritual care in times of crisis.

The relationship with the Ministry of the Interior began months earlier through discussions on religious affairs. When organizers learned that Omaña would be in Colombia, they invited him to speak at the national gathering.

Omaña addressed spiritual care in crisis situations, emphasizing that people affected by emergencies often require a different approach from traditional pastoral care. He highlighted the importance of listening without imposing answers, helping individuals navigate decisions, and coordinating spiritual support with professional and institutional care.

“We were not invited to tell others how to do their work, but to sit at the table, listen, learn, and share what our global experience can contribute,” Omaña said.

Buitrago said the invitation reflects interest in the Adventist Church’s established approach to chaplaincy, which combines academic preparation, ministerial experience, and specialized training.

“We are a church committed to service, a church that is also highly organized and has a strong educational structure, and that is what we want to make available to the country,” he said.

A key outcome of the meeting was an opportunity for the Colombia Adventist University to present an academic training option.

Rey Alba introduced a 120-hour online diploma program in spiritual care. It consists of 10 modules designed to provide religious leaders with practical knowledge and tools for accompanying people through difficult circumstances.

Church leaders stressed that the program is not a professional chaplaincy certification.

“The diploma is in spiritual care, not chaplaincy,” Buitrago said.

Professional chaplaincy requires more extensive academic and ministerial preparation. According to the standards presented by Adventist representatives, professional chaplains are expected to have theological education, graduate studies, ministerial experience, and clinical pastoral education. The proposed diploma would instead serve as an introductory training opportunity.

The program would not be limited to Adventists. The Ministry of the Interior invited the church to contribute to the training of religious leaders and chaplaincy directors from different denominations, including representatives of Pentecostal, Orthodox, and other Christian communities who attended the meeting.

Buitrago said chaplaincy in Colombia is still developing and expressed hope that Adventist professionals will eventually have greater opportunities to serve in hospitals, prisons, the military, and other community settings.

“I dream of having chaplains in the military, in prisons, in hospitals, in the community, and in so many other areas,” he said.

Church leaders clarified that no formal agreement currently exists between the Ministry of the Interior and the Colombia Adventist University. The government provided a platform for the university to present its spiritual-care training proposal to religious leaders across the country, with each denomination free to decide whether to participate.

According to Alba, discussions are now underway with denominations interested in the training. Separate conversations have also begun with religious leaders interested in opportunities for professional theological education.

For Adventist leaders, the invitation represents an opportunity to place the church’s experience in education, chaplaincy, and spiritual care at the service of a wider community while helping equip religious leaders to better support people facing crisis, Buitrago said.

The original article was published on the Inter-American Division news site.

From 2016–2017, da Silva served as a literature evangelist in Huambo, Angola. While working as a literature evangelist, he began sharing messages of encouragement with friends, acquaintances, and people he met along the way. He has maintained the practice ever since.

The practice is made possible by a mobile phone operator that offers a mobile plan for 150 kwanzas (US$0.16) that is valid for three days. da Silva believes he shouldn't let any of the available data go to waste, so before the package runs out, he writes messages of hope.

Before writing messages, da Silva prays. He asks God what to say and who recipients should be. His messages range from personal writings, Bible texts, and passages from Adventist pioneer Ellen G. White.

One of da Silva's messages encouraged a man experiencing acute distress in a life-changing moment. Later, the man sought da Silva out, embracing him and wanting to know what the message had meant. The man told da Silva that reading it had given him a reason to believe the challenges he was facing would pass. The man currently lives in Portugal and remains in contact with da Silva.

da Silva has many similar stories. Some have reached out via voice message for prayer during challenging life events.

Representatives of Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division say da Silva's experience carries a direct lesson for the OneVoice27 movement by showing how digital mission does not require high-tech gadgets.

"What matters is the willingness to use whatever device is already in hand."

The original article was published on the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division news site.

Formally introduced on September 15, the training is part of a continuing series expanding efforts to equip church leaders with practical tools to strengthen their leadership, organizations, and mission impact.

Developed under the leadership of Stephen Salainti, vice president of Leadership and Development for SSD, LEAD Hub provides a central digital space where leaders can access materials, continue their leadership journey, and apply what they learn within their respective ministries and organizations.

“Leadership development cannot happen through one training program alone. It has to be a continuing journey,” Salainti said. “Through LEAD Hub, we want our leaders to have a place where they can continue learning, access resources, and apply what they have learned as they serve their organizations. Our goal is to develop leaders who will not only grow personally but also strengthen their organizations and multiply mission.”

The SSD Leadership and Development team partnered with the Information Technology (IT) department, led by Ryan Micua, director of IT for SSD, to conceptualize and develop LEAD Hub as a platform designed for long-term use. The collaboration brought created a digital space that can grow alongside SSD’s training initiatives.

LEAD Hub builds on SSD’s continuing leadership development efforts, including regional LEAD conferences conducted in previous years. The digital platform is intended to complement face-to-face training by providing leaders with resources they can use after scheduled sessions have ended.

The leadership journey is organized around four areas: Leading Self, Leading with Others, Leading in Organizations, and Leading Mission Multiplication. The progression connects personal leadership development with relationships, organizational health, and the broader mission of the Church.

Through Leading Self, participants explore leadership identity, purpose, and calling. Leading With Others focuses on relationships, communication, and collaboration. Leading in Organizations addresses areas such as strategic planning and organizational leadership. Leading Mission Multiplication encourages participants to translate leadership development into actions that strengthen and advance mission.

The development of the platform also provides a way to make resources accessible beyond a physical training venue.

Joven Francisco, IT project manager for SSD, led the design and development of the LEAD Hub platform. He said it was built with long-term accessibility and continued use in mind.

“We wanted LEAD Hub to be more than just a website where resources are stored,” Francisco said. “The goal was to build a platform that leaders can easily access and continue using even after the training is over. Technology gives us an opportunity to make leadership resources available when and where our leaders need them.”

The approach reflects a broader shift in SSD’s leadership development strategy—from viewing leadership training primarily as a series of events toward creating a continuing process of learning, reflection, application, and growth. The broader LEAD framework includes workshops, peer coaching, reflective learning, strategic planning, and mentoring.

For SSD, the platform also provides a common resource through which leaders can develop shared leadership principles while applying them within their respective cultural, organizational, and mission contexts.

With LEAD Hub officially launched ahead of the next leadership training cycle, SSD leaders hope the platform will help participants carry what they learn beyond the training room and into the organizations and communities they serve.

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

The Aligned for Mission Church Planting Consultation’s stated objective was “to strengthen our unity in Christ for mission in order to sharpen our focus on planting new groups of believers among the unreached, reaffirm our commitment to Christ’s wholistic ministry model, and explore means of aligning our mission strategies.” 

Rick McEdward, executive secretary for the GC, welcomed participants with an appeal for unity: “We have a big mission, and we have enough to do, and let’s go together . . . it’s about one message, one church, one mission.”

The three-day gathering included devotionals, prayer sessions, ministry presentations, strategic discussions, and informal conversations.

Erton Köhler, president of the GC, thanked supporting ministry leaders for their work and emphasized the need for the entire Church to participate in mission.

“We need many hands to push the mission of the church—pastors, administrators, the members, and those who are leading supporting ministries around the world,” he said.

Supporting ministries are independent organizations operated by Adventist lay members that work in support of the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Leaders of these ministries shared details of their work in church planting, health ministry, education, media, literature evangelism, refugee ministry, missionary training, and sending both international and local missionaries.

Organizations represented included Adventist Laymen’s Services & Industries (ASI), a membership organization for Adventist businesspeople, professionals, and supporting ministries; Adventist Frontier Missions; Adventist Medical Evangelism Network (AMEN); Adventist Southeast Asia Projects Ministries; Gospel Outreach; Jesus for Asia; Outpost Centers International; and Quiet Hour Ministries.

Danny Houghton, president of ASI, said the spirit of unity was one of the most meaningful aspects of the gathering. “We all love the church,” he said, “and to be invited in and talk about strategy and push the work of the church forward was an honor and a blessing.” He described the consultation as “a very meaningful start in enhancing collaboration between supporting ministries to work in an aligned way with what the church is doing.”

A recurring recommendation was improved communication between supporting ministries and official church organizations. Participants also suggested developing agreements between supporting ministries and denominational organizations working together in mission fields. 

“The purpose of this meeting was to gather mission leaders together to strengthen our cooperation,” said Greg Whitsett, Planning director for the GC Office of Adventist Mission. “We value our diversity of mission strategies, but not at the expense of harmony . . . I came away encouraged by what can happen when mission leaders sit together in a close setting like this to work our common challenges.”

At the conclusion of the consultation, the group agreed on a statement identifying shared interests such as alignment in mission, better communication and collaboration, and co-ordination for frontline work in high-priority mission areas. It also addressed the need to share mission stories with honesty, sensitivity to other belief systems, and sensitivity to security concerns in certain areas officially closed to Christian mission.

John Shin, M.D., president of AMEN expressed his appreciation for the consultation.

He said, “I have found this event uplifting and encouraging because it allowed me to meet like-minded leaders of other ministries and fellowship with them and leaders in the church administration in expanding the reach of the gospel message and the Lord’s work.”

Gary Krause, director of the GC Office of Adventist Mission, expressed a similar hope.

“It was wonderful to see lay ministries gather to pray, share, and discuss ways to work more effectively together, and with official church organizations such as Adventist Mission,” he said.

McEdward closed the consultation by pointing beyond organizational structures to the ultimate purpose of mission: leading people to Jesus. “Our calling together matters,” he said, “because it is to introduce people to Jesus, ground them in the Scripture and be whole-life worshippers of Jesus and also to invite others to worship Him as well.”

Looking back over the three days, McEdward summarized his hope for what had begun in Silver Spring: “I believe this weekend has been the beginning of an era of closer cooperation with supporting ministries.

The service marked the institution's commitment to OneVoice27, a global initiative encouraging Adventist church members to use their personal digital media to post how Jesus can make all things new using the hashtag #allthingsnew based on Revelation 21:5.

Four projects, one ecosystem

AUA introduced four flagship projects as part of the OneVoice27 movement during the global launch.

The first project will transform AUA's existing audio-visual unit into an active production and distribution center, creating short-form evangelistic videos on theology, health, leadership, and finance featuring AUA faculty and staff. The content will be shared through Hope Channel Africa, Adventist World Radio, and East-Central Africa Division (ECD) Media. Video projects will also be posted online to reach audiences outside of Nairobi. Content will be produced in English, French, Arabic, Amharic, and Portuguese to reach as many people as possible. Partners for this project include Voice of Prophecy (VOP), faith-aligned content creators, and ECD's communication team.

The second project will utilize AUA's online discipleship platform to deliver the Discipleship Handbook produced by the General Conference Sabbath School and Personal Ministries (GC SSPM) department via video, audio, and interactive lessons on a mobile-accessible learning platform. People who complete all 26 lessons will receive a co-branded digital certificate and will be commissioned as DNA Mentors, each committed to discipling at least one new person. Representatives said this will create a self-replicating movement that continues beyond the OneVoice27 initiative. The platform is being developed in partnership with GC SSPM, GC Youth Ministries, and three African divisions.

The third project is a three-day intensive bootcamp that will train AUA campus members, local church youth, and representatives from public universities and colleges in content creation, social media evangelism, WhatsApp cell group facilitation, and online Bible study tools. Representatives said every participant will leave with a ready-to-use Digital Evangelism Starter Kit and is expected to train others in their local church or institution, creating a multiplication chain.

The fourth project involves hosting health expos in partnership with local hospitals, the uniformed services ministry, and youth sports tournaments that will feed into a single celebration event on the AUA campus in September 2027. The event will feature a baptism service, VOP graduation, and Certified Pastoral Chaplain certification ceremony.

Uniformed services at the heart of mission

The uniformed service personnel present at the launch event were from Kenya Defense Forces, the National Police Service, the Administrative Police Service, the General Service Unit, the Kenya Prison Service, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Kenya Forest Service, and the National Youth Service.

AUA's fourth OneVoice27 project is designed to engage the uniformed service community and plans to deliver a VOP discipleship program; Daniel and Revelation prophecy series; and leadership, family life, and mental health seminars to members.

"It's lovely to see them as part of us today," said one of the speakers during the presentation of AUA's four flagship projects.

Maxwell Adventist Academy encourages students to lead the way

Teachers and students from MAA joined the AUA global launch event. Lari Rusenescu, principal of MAA, shared that students had already discovered the joy of mission.

"We have found that especially our students, when they go out to impact the community, they come back rejoicing," said Tom Ongaro, vice principal of MAA, told the congregation gathered at the OneVoice27 launch event. "Happiness is found by people doing service that impacts the community."

The academy announced that in the coming months its students, in partnership with Maranatha International, will travel to the Nandi region of Kenya to help construct a church for a community currently worshipping under a tree. A team of MAA students has already begun worshipping with children from an orphanage in Nairobi.

Ongaro announced that testimonies from these mission trips would form part of AUA's OneVoice27 digital content portfolio by providing real stories from real students that will be shared with the world.

ECD's digital missionary call

A representative from the ECD Communication department introduced the division's digital mobilization initiative, Generation Light Mode, to the AUA congregation. The initiative challenges church members to "refuse to scroll in silence."

Generation Light Mode is a social media platform that invites digital missionaries and members across the ECD to join a resource hub where they can download evangelistic content such as testimonies, videos, posters, and Bible study materials to share on their existing social media accounts.

Generation Light Mode's aims for one million digital missionaries from across ECD to intentionally engage their followers and lead interested contacts back to online Bible studies in Daniel, Revelation, and The Desire of Ages.

"Half of the world's population is online," the ECD representative reminded the congregation. "We as a church need to be present on social media to switch on the light and bring light into the dark world."

Using technology to spread the gospel

The launch-day sermon was delivered by Ademola Tayo, AUA's vice chancellor. Drawing from Ezra chapter 3, he distilled six principles for the OneVoice27 journey ahead: a new priority, a new obedience, a new resolve, a new focus, a new attitude, and a new understanding, celebrating the differences between generations, where the wisdom of the old and the creativity of the young are equally necessary.

"The world in which we live is technologically advanced but emotionally exhausted. The Christian message is not that humanity will somehow repair itself. Our hope is in a person, and His name is Jesus Christ," Tayo said.

He called on the congregation to pull out their phones and send a message of hope to one person on their contact list. Commitment cards distributed during the closing commitment service asked each person to write down the name of one person they would commit to reaching out to, as well as the first step they would take. The cards are meant to be kept in their Bibles until the culmination of the OneVoice27 initiative in September 2027.

As Tayo closed his appeal, citing Ellen White's counsel in Evangelism to "devise methods to reach the people where they are," he issued a final charge: "Let our devices carry the gospel to those we may never meet. Let us not only scroll, let us share. Let us not only consume, let us witness. Let us not remain silent. Let us proclaim Jesus."

This article was provided by the Adventist University of Africa.

The delegation, which included Erton Köhler, GC president, Richard McEdward, GC secretary, and Paul Douglas, GC treasurer, met with leaders of the Albanian Mission, the Adriatic Union Conference, and the Trans-European Division. Additionally, they visited several ministries and missionary initiatives across the country.

“As General Conference leaders, we purposefully visit places where the Church faces significant missionary challenges. This year, we chose Albania to better understand the missionary context of that country and determine how best to support ministry,” said Köhler.

During the week, meetings focused on the opportunities, challenges, and vision for the future of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Albania.

Opening of HopeMedia Albania

One of the highlights of the visit was the inauguration of HopeMedia Albania, a new media center dedicated to spreading the gospel message through digital platforms. GC leaders toured the new facility and learned about the project's vision.

“It was a great honor to be present at the opening of HopeMedia Studios here in Albania,” said Douglas. “When you see what has been created in the space available, you are amazed at the possibilities and potential of what will happen here.”

Douglas also confirmed the worldwide Church's readiness to support this initiative.

“During my visit, I learned a new Albanian word—'besa’—which conveys the meaning of trust, loyalty, and keeping one’s promise. This word inspired me, as it reflects our commitment to stand together with the Albanian Mission as partners in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the media,” he said.

OneVoice27 initiative

The delegation also learned about Albanian Mission's OneVoice27 strategy, a global initiative that brings together communities, ministries, and members to share the gospel.

Reflecting on what they saw, McEdward said, “I see tremendous growth and infrastructure development through the leadership of the pastors.”

He added that this spirit of collaboration is clearly reflected in the OneVoice27 vision.

A few weeks later, the Albanian Mission presented the OneVoice27 initiative at the Global Adventist Internet Network meeting in Auckland, New Zealand. The strategy, developed by the Mission’s team of pastors, began in April and combines prayer, Bible study, and church member training using social media, WhatsApp, and video content adapted to Albanian culture.

Visiting local ministries

The GC delegation met with pastors and their families during a joint luncheon with Adriatic Union Conference leaders. This provided an opportunity to hear from local ministers and support those serving in different parts of the country.

The delegation also visited the Tirana Eastern Adventist Community, where Gentian Tomollari and his wife, Sanda, spoke about using digital platforms to support the local church's evangelistic ministry.

Another stop was the recently opened Lighthouse Impact Center in Durres. Adriel and Sarah Genke told guests about the center’s work, which builds relationships with the local community through hospitality, creative initiatives, and purposeful service.

The group also visited an Adventist kindergarten, where they met with educators and children and learned more about the Church’s investment in Christian education as part of its long-term missionary strategy.

Supporting the Church in Albania

According to Delmar Reis, president of the Albanian Mission, this visit was a source of support and confirmation of the importance of the Church's mission.

“The visit of the leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist world church is an extremely important event for the Adventist Church in Albania,” said Reis. “Their presence confirms the importance of the missionary initiatives we are developing throughout the country and inspires our pastors, leaders, and members to continue serving with renewed commitment.”

Zlatko Musija, president of the Adriatic Union Conference, called the visit an important reminder of Albania's contribution to the Church's global mission.

“Although we are one of the smallest unions, their presence supports us. The ideas and resources they shared will strengthen our work,” Musija said.

Concluding the visit, Köhler shared his impressions of what he saw.

“It was an amazing experience,” he said. “We were able to understand the challenges, see the vision, and be involved in the initiatives that are being implemented here. We return home with a much better understanding of the missionary context of Albania and how best to support the Church.”

He added that the purpose of the visit was not only to offer support, but also to learn from Albania's example.

"We are one Church family. Although we serve in different parts of the world, we strengthen each other. What we have seen here is inspiring," Köhler concluded.

The original article was published on the Ukrainian Union Conference news site.

AdventHealth for Children’s neonatology program ranked number 33 nationally, marking the ninth consecutive year the program has received national recognition from U.S. News and World Report. AdventHealth for Children’s gastroenterology and GI surgery program ranked number 43 nationally, making it the number one program of its kind in Florida, United States.

These distinctions reflect the advanced care, clinical expertise, and compassionate whole-person care AdventHealth for Children teams provide to kids and their families navigating complex medical needs.

Whether in the NICU, pediatric specialty clinics, or the operating room, our physicians, nurses, and care teams stand beside families through some of life’s most fragile and defining moments.

“Our national recognition is meaningful because of what it represents for children and families,” said Kristi Baker, senior executive officer for AdventHealth for Children. “Behind every ranking are team members and physicians who bring extraordinary expertise, compassion, and hope to some of the most important moments a family will ever experience.”

The U.S. News & World Report Best Children’s Hospitals rankings evaluate pediatric hospitals nationwide using measures designed to assess the quality and complexity of care. These measures include clinical outcomes, adherence to best practices, hospital resources and input from pediatric specialists.

For families seeking care for a child with complex needs, the recognition offers another resource as they consider where to turn for specialized pediatric expertise.

The original article was published on the AdventHealth news site.

In Mongolia, the call to mission extended into digital spaces. More than 70 young women gathered at SUUT Resort on August 9 for OneVoice27 training focused on reaching their generation through digital platforms. Participants were encouraged to view their phones and online presence not simply as communication tools, but as mission fields where they can share the hope of the gospel.

Otgontuya Tserenpil, director of Women’s Ministries for the Mongolia Mission, encouraged participants to begin their digital ministry with their close friends. Raquel Arrais, director of Women’s Ministries for the NSD, also shared practical approaches for building relationships with young people and communicating the hope of the gospel through digital platforms.

“To see our young women’s commitment to be a channel of hope for OneVoice27 was empowering,” Arrais said.

Later that month, women from local churches in Sri Lanka gathered at Lakpahana on August 22 for the Ceylon Mission camp meeting and a special OneVoice27 training. There, participants explored practical ways to engage in mission through their families, neighborhoods, workplaces, churches, and communities.

Dilrukshi Gunathilake, director of Women’s Ministries for the Ceylon Mission, introduced practical ways for women to participate in OneVoice27. Arrais also spoke at the camp meeting and encouraged each believer to focus on reaching at least one person for Jesus. She highlighted conversations, Bible studies, acts of service, and personal relationships as everyday opportunities for mission.

Representatives said the two training programs showed how OneVoice27 can move into practical action through personal relationships, service, and digital ministry—one person at a time.

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

Church members around the world prayed for the presence of the Holy Spirit, for God's help in ministry and in their communities, and for those they want to share the gospel with.

The OneVoice27 initiative is designed to help every church member find personal ways to share their faith with others. This may mean engaging in personal conversations, helping someone through a difficult situation, using digital media to spread the gospel, praying for specific people, and more.

In congregations across Siberia, from the Tyumen and Omsk regions to the Transbaikal Territory, from the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug and the Far North to Russia's borders with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China, church members held identical booklets with the inscription "OneVoice27: Mission for All," to show their dedication to speaking in one voice while acknowledging that each church member is an individual who can reach different people in different ways.

Each church member was asked to find ways to participate in the initiative. A special questionnaire was provided to help members consider how they could participate. The questionnaire encouraged members to ask themselves, "What do I have and what can I share with others?"

The original article was published on the Euro-Asia Division Russian news site.

Through a live program on the Facebook account “Adventistas UPS” broadcast at the same time, the event enabled real-time interaction with pastors and church members across the region.

Mission for all

The program began the previous evening with the OneVoice27 Mission Call. Small groups gathered to praise God, listen to testimonies, and pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. At dawn on Saturday, the church went out into public spaces to make its commitment to the mission visible. At 7am, social media amplified this movement when church members simultaneously turned their digital platforms into spaces to talk about God.

The day continued at 11am with a Commitment Sermon. Every church member was invited to personally respond to the missionary call. In various locations throughout the country, people decided to give their lives to Christ through baptism.

In the afternoon, the OneVoice27 District Launch and the OneVoice27 Fair, where different departments presented initiatives to involve more members in the mission, began. The day concluded with photographs and rousing speeches in each church.

The original article was published on the South American Division news site.

The online prayer vigil brought together churches, institutions, and individuals from across the SPD, with participants praying, sharing testimonies, singing, and reflecting on mission. Thousands joined across the weekend via Zoom and Facebook.

SPD President Glenn Townend described the launch as a “spiritual and cultural success”.

“Through the prayer vigil we prayed, dreamed, shared stories, sang, and listened to what God has put on our hearts in the different places throughout the Pacific—it was beautiful,” he said.

Townend said he participated for a few hours each day and was impressed by the diversity of contributions. Highlights included prayers for the Holy Spirit to rain down on the South West Papua Mission, prayers for the 10/40 Window led by an elder in Tonga, a song about Jesus and OneVoice27 created by a young man in Papua New Guinea, and stories of transformation from chaplains.

“There were so many highlights,” Townend said. “Keep praying for all our people in the South Pacific—that we are all mobilized to share Jesus through word, song, [and] lifestyle . . . whatever means we can.

“This is just the beginning of our one mission for our one God being proclaimed with one voice.”

OneVoice27 SPD coordinator Pablo Lillo welcomed the strong response from across the region.

“I have been deeply encouraged by the overwhelming response from churches, institutions, and leaders across the Pacific,” Lillo said. “God has truly blessed His Church.

“Throughout the prayer vigil, I witnessed the Holy Spirit moving powerfully as we prayed for our churches and institutions, people of all generations and communities across the Pacific. We also prayed that God would raise up a new generation of digital missionaries who will faithfully proclaim the everlasting gospel.”

French Polynesia Mission secretary Jeff Marirai-Parker said participating in the vigil reinforced the sense of connection between territories across the SPD.

“It was powerful to realize that, across our vast Pacific, our territories were united around the same Jesus, the same mission, and the same desire to see the Holy Spirit mobilize His Church,” he said.

For the French Polynesia Mission, the launch was about more than preparing for an event in 2027, according to Marirai-Parker.

“It is a call to mobilization now,” he said. “Our desire is to see our pastors, departments, local churches, young people, families, and every member understand that they have a place in God’s mission and a testimony to share.”

Orette Elyse-Collen, from Mile End Community Church in Sydney, Australia, said she joined the vigil several times over the weekend and was struck by the unity of prayer across the region.

“I could feel the presence and power of the Holy Spirit at work in every heart and in every country where God’s people are hearing God’s call to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.” 

The 48-hour vigil marked the beginning of the SPD's involvement in OneVoice27, a global Seventh-day Adventist initiative focused on mobilizing church members to share Jesus in the lead-up to and throughout 2027.

“2027 will be a year that Jesus is lifted up in the South Pacific and around the world,” Townend said.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.

Based on Revelation 21:5, OneVoice27 carries the theme "All Things New" and forms part of the Adventist Church's Mission for All strategy, building toward a united evangelistic emphasis in September 2027. The initiative calls members to share how Jesus can make all things new on their personal digital media using the hashtag #allthingsnew.

Four communication leaders from around the world addressed the audience: Samuel Gil, associate Communication director for the General Conference, Pako Mokgwane, Communication director for the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division, Thulani Mkhize, Communication director for the Southern Africa Union Conference, and Andrew Moonsamy, Communication director and president of the KwaZulu-Natal Free State Conference.

Mokgwane spoke on authenticity and audience. Digital missionaries must communicate honestly, he said, while recognizing that different audiences respond to different forms of language. Effective digital evangelism requires listening and adapting so the gospel connects with people where they are, rather than reproducing the same message everywhere, he concluded.

Gil challenged those without an established digital presence to begin with the voice they already have. A person's physical voice can still connect others to Jesus, he said, while social media extends that voice beyond the immediate circle of family, friends, and congregation.

"The platforms are the means; Jesus is the end," Gil said.

Mkhize broadened the definition further, reminding congregants that digital mission requires neither sophisticated equipment nor a large following. Even WhatsApp can become a tool for sharing Christ, he said. The challenge, according to Mkhize is to use what you already have.

Moonsamy urged members to move beyond hearing about OneVoice27 to participating in it, using everyday interactions and digital platforms to reach as many people as possible.

Congregants were invited to take out their mobile phones for a consecration service; a commitment to use their devices intentionally to encourage others, share hope, tell stories of faith, and invite people to discover the Bible.

The afternoon program moved from strategy to response. During an appeal by Gil, one man walked to the front to dedicate his life to Christ, and Dr. Gil prayed over him. A group of congregants stood in response to a call for volunteers to serve as digital missionaries.

The Durban launch is one of several OneVoice27 events rolled out across the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division in recent months, including launches in the Southern Africa Union Conference, Zimbabwe Central Union Conference, and South-Western Angola Union Mission.

The original article was published on the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division news site.

The operation lasted approximately six hours. Viviane received a small and large intestine transplant, without the simultaneous transplantation of organs such as the liver, pancreas, or stomach. Viviane presented with short bowel syndrome, intestinal failure, and severe malnutrition as consequences of Crohn's disease, conditions that compromised the absorption of nutrients necessary for the body.

For Viviane, the transplant represents the hope of regaining her health and resuming plans interrupted by the illness.

"I hope it brings back all the dreams I couldn't fulfill. That it gives me strength, health, and the means to remain the person I am," she said.

Highly complex procedure

Although rarely performed in Brazil, intestinal transplantation is warranted in specific situations such as serious complications associated with prolonged use of parenteral nutrition, which provides nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a catheter. According to Ranieri Leitão, medical director of Silvestre Hospital, Viviane had been exclusively dependent on this support for several years.

Eduardo Fernandes, chief surgeon and coordinator of the liver and multivisceral transplant unit, explained that the team already had experience in multivisceral transplants, which involve transplanting several organs simultaneously. He explains that "some of them participated in the first multivisceral transplant in the state, with the combined transplantation of the small intestine, liver, pancreas, and stomach."

According to surgeon Felipe Pedreira Tavares de Mello, the operation went without complications. He explains that previous surgeries can leave adhesions, internal scars that make a new intervention more difficult.

“To our surprise, we found a slightly more favorable scenario than we had imagined. The surgery went extremely well, without any complications, and we are very hopeful about the success of the procedure as a whole,” he noted.

Experience in transplants

Since 2010, the Silvestre Adventist Hospital has performed 1,688 kidney and liver transplants. Its history also includes the world's first pancreas transplant using the isolated segmental technique, which utilizes part of the donor's organ.

Currently, seven of the 12 surgeons on the liver transplant team are women. Most of these professionals completed their residency at the hospital and built their careers within the institution. The team also sought training in the United States for intestinal transplantation.

"It's been many years of dedication, study, and experience. For what happened today to happen, many years of accumulating experience were required," Fernandes stated.

Speaking about the care she received, Viviane emphasized her admiration for medicine and the people who dedicate themselves to patients.

“I think medicine is beautiful. These discoveries, these ways they find to help others. The empathy, the love for others. Helping human beings. I find that very beautiful.”

Green September

The procedure took place during Green September, a month dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of organ donation. According to Cristian Denis da Silva, general director of the Silvestre Adventist Hospital, the event reflects the team's preparedness and the institution's history.

“This moment crowns our celebration of 16 years of pioneering work in liver and kidney transplants, a journey built on science, experience, and above all, a commitment to life,” Silva stated. “And in the midst of Green September, we praise God for this achievement, another historic moment as we perform the first intestinal transplant, opening a new chapter in this journey.”

The original article was published on the Silvestre Adventist Hospital news site.

The global movement encourages every member to participate in mission by using their personal social media to share how Jesus makes "All things new" based on Revelation 21:5 using the hashtag #allthingsnew.

In a video message, Erton Köhler, president of the General Conference, said, “Churches in your region are beginning a journey that connects them with the worldwide Adventist Church through OneVoice27.” He added, “This is a global movement, but it becomes a reality only when local churches find their own ways to participate.”

Köhler encouraged members to move toward 2027 firmly grounded in God’s Word and focused on mission.

Across the division, churches translated that shared vision into different actions. In Korea, churches nationwide joined the main program online, hosted at Byeollae Church, while 27 representatives from different generations and church organizations took part in a commitment ceremony. In Taiwan, the church set specific goals for the coming year, including training digital missionaries, mobilizing members for 100 Days of Prayer, and conducting evangelistic meetings.

Other NSD regions emphasized reaching one person at a time. In Mongolia, participants wrote down the name of someone they would pray for and serve, while each local church appointed a OneVoice27 representative to encourage member involvement. In Nepal, participants also committed to pray for at least one person through OneVoice27 Commitment Cards. More than 1,000 members gathered in Banepa and Udayapur, including more than 100 children who participated in OneVoice27 for Kids.

Large gatherings gave members opportunities to experience mission in practical ways. In Sri Lanka, about 1,500 members gathered for worship and participated in mission booth activities. In Bangladesh, churches across the country launched OneVoice27 together, with a baptismal service at Dhaka Seventh-day Adventist Church.

In Pakistan, about 1,300 members gathered at Karachi Adventist Hospital, where they explored various ministries through OneVoice27 booths. Fifty-six people were baptized, and the Pakistan Union Section is now looking ahead to the September 2027 Karachi Mega Evangelism under the goal “2,000 Souls for Jesus.”

Representatives said that though the methods of the OneVoice27 launch differed from place to place, the direction remained the same: bringing the gospel into everyday life through prayer, relationships, digital media, and local church ministry.

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

Led by Marcia McEdward, employee care coordinator and health educator for the GC, the blood drive aimed to provide a vital resource for patient transfusion services and connect the GC office with the local community.

Blood is an essential component for surgeries and cancer, chronic illness, and traumatic injury treatment. The American Red Cross reports that someone in the United States requires blood or platelets every two seconds. One car accident victim may require as many as 100 units of blood.

According to the American Red Cross, only about three per cent of those eligible to donate blood do so yearly, causing the demand for blood to often be greater than the supply.

During the GC blood drive, 21 people successfully donated, providing 23 units of blood to the community. “We had 14 first-time donors, and that encourages people to do it again because the first time is the most unnerving,” said McEdward.

“If you’re able to, giving blood is so important for the community. It literally saves lives in a myriad of different situations, and it’s a good way to witness through our actions,” said Paige Swanson, senior editorial assistant for inVerse and first-time blood donor.

Hosting the blood drive at the GC office provided an opportunity for the community to learn about the Adventist church. About one quarter of the donors were from the local community. A few of them had met Adventists before but had never participated in a Church activity.

McEdward met one woman who had only known about the Church because she had an Adventist employer. After leaving a personal item behind, McEdward contacted the woman and was invited to a lunch meeting the next day. “Anytime we touch the community in general, it’s an important time for us to say who we are and what we value, and that we value life,” said McEdward.

Organizers plan to stay in touch and actively build friendships and trust with the community members who donated blood. Additionally, organizers are hoping to host blood drives at the GC office three times a year starting in 2027.

“I’m just thankful for this opportunity. We praise God for ways that we can give,” said McEdward.

The launch brought together congregations across SSD’s 11-country territory for a coordinated Sabbath focused on the theme “All Things New” based on Revelation 21:5. Churches contextualized the initiative through local programs, community outreach, and other activities while participating in several common elements: an “All Things New” Sabbath message, commitment card signing, commitment prayer, and a coordinated social media posting initiative.

With more than 1.8 million Adventist members across the division, organizers envisioned the launch as an opportunity to demonstrate what could happen when individual members see their personal digital spaces as places for mission.

Carlito Quidet, SSD Communication director, said OneVoice27 is intended to help church members recognize that digital platforms can become meaningful spaces for mission.

“We want every member to understand that they do not need to be professional content creators to share Jesus online,” Quidet said. “A personal testimony, a simple post, or a shared message can open a conversation and create an opportunity for someone to discover hope in Christ.”

Preliminary social media data released following the launch recorded 50,800 mentions of #allthingsnew, an estimated reach of 23.8 million, 542,600 interactions, and more than 14,000 shares. The report also identified more than 6,500 images and 350 videos connected with the campaign.

Instagram accounted for 49.8% of recorded activity, followed by Facebook at 36.2%, video platforms at 11%, and TikTok at 2.9%, according to the report.

Among the countries represented in the available data, the Philippines accounted for 54% of recorded activity, followed by Indonesia at 36.6%, Malaysia at 5%, Myanmar at 2.8%, Thailand at 0.9%, Laos and Timor-Leste at 0.3% each, and Singapore at 0.1%.

The SSD media team cautioned that the figures represent raw data compiled from multiple sources and do not capture the campaign's full digital activity. Privacy settings, country data regulations, and platform scraping limitations can affect the information available. The report also excluded livestreams and long-form video content.

A strategy designed for every member

In preparation for the launch, the SSD Communication department worked with Hope Channel, Adventist World Radio, and communication teams from unions and other church organizations to develop a coordinated digital strategy.

Because levels of digital literacy vary widely across SSD's territory, communication leaders sought to make participation possible regardless of a member's social media experience.

The resulting strategy centered on three approaches: create, customize, and share.

Members who were comfortable producing digital content were encouraged to create user-generated posts, photographs, videos, and testimonies describing how Jesus had brought renewal, hope, or transformation into their lives.

Church organizations also developed digital templates that members could customize according to local languages, cultures, and contexts. Rather than simply reposting institutional material, participants were encouraged to accompany the templates with personal captions that reflected their own experiences with Jesus.

Members with limited experience using digital platforms were encouraged to share existing content with assistance from younger members or others in their congregations who were more familiar with social media.

The approach sought to remove technical ability as a barrier to participation and reinforce the idea that digital mission does not belong solely to communication professionals or content creators.

Participants were also encouraged to use the hashtag #allthingsnew and, when appropriate, identify or tag their local church or its location, thereby creating a potential connection between an online testimony and a local Adventist congregation.

From digital reach to personal connection

While the September 5 launch produced millions of potential digital impressions, SSD leaders have emphasized that reach alone is not the goal of OneVoice27.

The broader strategy seeks to guide people on a journey from digital contact to personal engagement and, ultimately, connection with a local church community.

Instead of viewing social media primarily as a broadcasting platform, OneVoice27 aims to encourage Adventists to use their existing online relationships to begin conversations about faith. A testimony shared with friends, relatives, colleagues, or followers can become an invitation to ask questions, pray together, study the Bible, or connect with an Adventist congregation.

Representatives said that emphasis shaped the content shared during the launch. Social media feeds across the region featured personal testimonies, short videos, photographs, and messages describing experiences of forgiveness, restoration, answered prayer, renewed purpose, and hope in Christ.

Arnel Gabin, vice president for Nurture, Discipleship, Reclamation, and Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle for SSD, emphasized that the initiative is designed to move beyond digital visibility toward personal connection and discipleship. “The goal is not simply to reach people online, but to engage them, build relationships, and eventually connect them with a local church where they can continue their journey with Jesus,” Gabin said. “Digital mission becomes most meaningful when an online encounter leads to genuine spiritual growth and community.”

Just the beginning

For OneVoice27 organizers, the simultaneous posting initiative was not designed as a one-day social media campaign.

It challenges participants to continue sharing authentic stories of how Christ makes “all things new.”

Representatives said continuing participation represents a shift in how the global church views digital evangelism. Rather than relying primarily on institutional accounts, media organizations, or professionally produced campaigns, OneVoice27 seeks to equip individual members to recognize that the people already connected to them online represent a mission field within reach.

Representatives said the September 5 launch provided an initial picture of what that approach could look like across the SSD territory: thousands of individual voices, languages, cultures, and personal experiences carrying a shared message of hope.

For the more than 1.8 million Adventists across Southern Asia-Pacific, the launch carried a simple idea into the year ahead: digital mission begins with the story each member already has to share.

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

The movement will culminate in September 2027, when the church commemorates the 2,000^th anniversary of Jesus' baptism, with a special focus on evangelism through social media and other digital platforms.

Digital evangelism in action

Dárci Nunc-nfoonro Saez Parra, a clinical phytotherapist and indigenous woman of the Laklãnõ Xokleng ethnicity from Ibirama, Santa Catarina, Brazil, doesn't usually use her cell phone at night. However, one early morning in March, she woke up, picked up her phone, and found content that would change the course of her life.

On Instagram, Parra watched a video by Gustavo Marques, SAD Youth director. In the post, he invited followers to ask questions about the Bible and announced a week of free Bible studies on the life of Jesus.

At the end of the video, Marques instructed anyone interested to click a button displayed on the screen that would direct them to WhatsApp. Parra didn't know Marques, but she was interested in the subject. Until then, she had never heard of Bible study.

"I was unaware of this. I always read the Bible, but studying is different," she said.

On the other side of the screen

While people clicked on the video link, Giovana Rodrigues Willem, Communication director of the Penha Adventist church, received the WhatsApp responses. According to her, the system automatically sent the message "I am interested in participating" as soon as someone accessed the link. From there, Willem asked for each person's full name and said they would be contacted again as the event date approached.

Parra was one of those who clicked on the link and responded to the message on March 16.

“I asked for her full name, she replied, and said she would definitely be there,” Willem recalled.

On March 20, the day before the program began, she sent another reminder to Parra that the week of Bible studies would start the following day.

To ensure Marques's video reached Parra and others, Willem partnered with her fiancé, Paulo Romualdo da Silva Júnior, a communications professional. In addition to editing the video, he implemented a paid traffic strategy, which involves paying social media sites to increase the reach of content to more users. This tool also allows videos to target people in specific geographic regions and audience interest profiles, among other criteria.

On the day of the event, Parra went to church alone. Upon arriving, she didn't recognize anyone and even considered leaving, feeling that this wasn't her place. However, the reception mirrored the warm welcome she had already experienced online. Willem was waiting for her with enthusiasm.

“When I saw her at the church that first day, I was so happy and went to meet her. I went down the church stairs and said, 'Hi, Dárci! It's so good to see you here! Come on in, make yourself at home. We're serving tea and some cookies. You can grab some here and then find a place you like to sit and feel comfortable. This is the best place you could be.' Then I hugged her and went with her to get some tea. After that, she sat down, and the event started soon after,” said Willem.

For Parra, the experience confirmed the potential of social media as a tool for evangelism. “Just as it did in my life, it will certainly do in the lives of so many other people. Sometimes it's just that one minute that they [the internet user] have, and the internet is in everyone's hand today. So, I think it's a good path, one that can make a big difference in many people's lives,” she said.

A baptism before church leaders

After the week of programming, church leaders continued Bible studies with Parra. Instructors noted that she already had a level of knowledge uncommon among people beginning this type of study. According to Parra, this is because she had been following the programming of TV Novo Tempo for some time and had friendships with Adventists, although she had never attended a church of that denomination. Novo Tempo is the official Portuguese-language radio and television media network operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South America.

Parra's baptism took place before more than 160 administrators and leaders from different areas of the Adventist Church in Southern Brazil who were gathered for a council meeting to discuss church strategies and priorities.

The scene moved those present.

“This moment is transformative in my life. I think it's the confirmation of what I always asked God for: 'enlighten my mind, give me discernment, give me wisdom, so that all the decisions I make will be for the honor and glory of the Lord',” Parra said.

According to Willem, Marques witnessed the impact of social media on Parra's connection to the church and to baptism. For this reason, he invited her to be baptized during the council, which was specifically discussing digital evangelism strategies.

Parra's story was shown on the Novo Tempo TV program, Revista Novo Tempo. The report is part of the coverage of OneVoice27 and shows, in practice, how a biblical message shared on social media can reach and transform a person's life.

The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese news site.

From a five-hour online prayer evening in Hungary to church-based launches in London, United Kingdom, and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, members and leaders marked the occasion through locally organized activities. Videos, worship services, prayer gatherings, and social media posts carried the same invitation: for every member and every church to share the hope of Jesus Christ.

OneVoice27 is a worldwide Seventh-day Adventist initiative designed to unite church-operated media ministries, local congregations, and individual members around a shared message. Its public-facing theme, All Things New, draws on Revelation 21:5 and points to 2027, approximately 2,000 years after Jesus’ baptism and the beginning of His public ministry.

The Hungarian Union Conference’s (HUC) launch centered on prayer, with a five-hour online prayer meeting. Each hour included a short sermon, information about evangelistic initiatives, videos, interviews, and prayer.

Tamás Ócsai, president of HUC, opened the program with a biblical reflection, followed by four other speakers during the evening. The livestream was shared on several Facebook pages and groups, enabling members in Hungary and the Hungarian diaspora to participate together. HUC leaders emphasized that September 5 was not the culmination of the initiative but the beginning of a year in which members and churches would prepare spiritually, learn new ways to share Jesus, create content, and strengthen the spiritual pathway from online interest to a local church community.

The British Union Conference (BUC) and South England Conference (SEC) launched OneVoice27 at the London Ghana Seventh-day Adventist Church in the United Kingdom. Cathy Baldeau, communication and media director of BUC, and Kwadwo Kwarteng-Ampofo, personal ministries director of SEC, participated in the launch, encouraging members to recognize mission as the responsibility of the whole church.

The BUC also released a video with the invitation, “The UK is in. Are you?” The video formed part of a wider online activity through which churches, organizations, and individual members shared about the OneVoice27 initiative. The Irish Mission similarly published a launch video that presented the worldwide initiative as a call for local commitment.

The day after the launch, Grantham Seventh-day Adventist Church participated in a community event at the nearby Belton House in the United Kingdom. Returning for its third year, the church used a distinctive red gazebo displaying its name, accompanied by flags and other promotional materials carrying their “Because You’re Loved” message. Free health checks, creative activities, and gifts helped the team begin conversations and build friendships with visitors. Children painted pebbles carrying messages of kindness. Jenny Johnson, one of the organizers, also produced small prayer and gratitude boxes containing notelets and pencils for people to record their prayers or moments of thankfulness.

“We want to share love, not only with one another in church, but also with our community in many different ways,” said Johnson.

Sheryl Davidans, a Grantham Seventh-day Adventist Church member, added, “We’re proud that we can represent not just the church, but the Lord, especially with the kickstart of OneVoice27.”

In Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the South-East European Union Conference (SEEUC) began its OneVoice27 journey alongside the local church. Dragan Grujičić, president for SEEUC, and Veljko Milošević, Media Director for SEEUC, participated in the launch. Milošević described the initiative as an opportunity to connect and encourage members while uniting them around a shared vision.

“When we act together and speak with one voice, we can accomplish much more and become a strong example of unity and faith,” he said. “I look forward to what lies ahead and believe that OneVoice27 will bear good fruit in our community.”

Elsewhere across TED, churches and organizations used online platforms to introduce the initiative in their local language. The official Adventist social media account in the Netherlands invited members to join the worldwide launch, while churches and media platforms in Poland shared information in Polish. A congregation in Łódź, Poland, used the local public-facing hashtag #JestNadzieja, meaning “There is hope”, illustrating how the central message is beginning to take shape in different languages and cultural contexts.

The launch followed months of preparation in other parts of TED. Ahead of the launch, the Croatian Conference organized OneVoice27 training in Maruševec, Croatia, from July 8–12. In Albania, pastors have met regularly since April to develop a shared strategy that combines prayer, Bible study resources, member training, community activities, and contextualized digital content. The Albanian Mission plans to use social media and messaging platforms to start conversations and equip members to respond personally to those interested in learning more about the Bible.

The General Conference invited members to use their personal social media accounts on launch day to show how Jesus makes all things new. Although expressions differed across TED, the launch shared a conviction: OneVoice27 is an invitation to pray, collaborate, try new approaches, and connect media activity with relationships, Bible study, and discipleship.

The original article was published on the Trans-European Division news site.

Jersey Day was inspired by 13-year-old Nathan Gremmo, who became an organ donor after he died following a road accident in 2015. His organs helped save the lives of six people.

Gremmo’s sister, Annaliese Liddicoat, is now a student midwife at San and joined the staff in marking Jersey Day and encouraging conversations about organ donation.

Liddicoat said her family’s experience highlighted the importance of discussing organ donation before a family is faced with the decision.

A few weeks before his accident, Gremmo had watched a documentary about organ donation and told his father he wanted to become an organ donor.

“This made my family’s decision a lot easier and went on to help us deeply with our grief,” Liddicoat said.

“Hearing feedback on Nath’s organ recipients and how much their lives had improved because of him was something we were also able to hold on to, and this is where Jersey Day was born," she said.

Liddicoat remembers her brother as “larger than life”—gentle, funny, adventurous, kind, and devoted to his family.

“He loved being outside, family holidays, jet skiing, boating, surfing, riding dirt bikes and horses, and going to footy [football/soccer] all weekend with Dad,” she said. “He made the most of the short 13 years he had.”

While Gremmo's absence continues to be deeply felt by the family, Liddicoat said knowing his organ recipients had been given the opportunity to make new memories with their own families and friends was comforting.

Gremmo’s time in the pediatric intensive care unit at Westmead Children’s Hospital also influenced Liddicoat's decision to pursue a career in healthcare.

“The nurses who cared for Nathan and my family were so gentle and thoughtful,” she said. “They made a big impact on our experience, and I hope to take those values into my own nursing career, whether it’s the best or hardest day of someone’s life.”

Liddicoat said seeing her colleagues at San support Jersey Day was particularly meaningful.

“It is so special to be able to come to work and see my work friends and the San staff wearing jerseys,” Liddicoat said.

“It makes me very proud of the legacy Nath has left behind, and I hope Jersey Day creates a conversation that may make someone’s decision in their worst time even the tiniest bit easier.”

Around 1,800 Australians are currently on the transplant waitlist. While most Australians support organ and tissue donation, only around one-third are registered donors. One organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people.

Liddicoat said the aim of Jersey Day was not simply to encourage more people to become organ donors, but to normalize conversations about donation among families and friends.

“It is amazing to be registered as an organ donor, but the decision is ultimately at the discretion of your family and next of kin,” she said.

“It can be so difficult to make a decision this big when losing a loved one, so we believe having these discussions prior is so important in improving organ donation outcomes.”

Asked what Gremmo would think of the initiative that grew from his decision, Liddicoat said she believed he would be “quietly proud”.

“He would be proud of how big Jersey Day has become and how it has impacted so many families,” she said. “I think he would be eager to know his recipients and what their life is like now.”

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.

The campaign ran from August 9–22 and was designed for communities with little prior experience with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. About 30 of the 150 baptisms took place in Sitolo Village, which had no Adventist members before the meetings began.

Church leaders said the response at Sitolo was the clearest indication that the campaign had reached its intended audience, and that villagers who were not baptized have since asked about attending services.

Steven Banda, one of those baptized, said the meetings gave him a fuller understanding of Scripture than he had previously held, and that this settled a decision he had been weighing.

"I have always wanted to be part of the Adventist community, but I did not have the opportunity," Thokozani Davison, another person baptized at the campaign, said. "Through attending this crusade, I have finally fulfilled that desire."

She said the Church's willingness to serve others had shaped her decision.

The newly formed congregation at Chikoleza is meeting in a temporary shelter. Smartha Hoka, Women's Ministry director for the Central Malawi Conference, and Peter Chibwato, Mtakataka district pastor, have appealed for support for a permanent building, saying a fixed structure would accommodate the growing congregation and provide a stable base for continued evangelism in the area.

The 150 baptisms mark the largest number of baptisms yet for the Central Malawi Conference Women's Ministry department.

The original article was published on the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division news site.