During a visit to Pará, Brazil, Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church headquarters, visited the region to learn more about humanitarian projects that impact riverside communities in the Amazon.

The focal point of the visit was the municipality of Benevides, where Wilson participated in an intense program at the Amazon Adventist College (Faama). The event gathered church authorities from South America, local leaders, and hundreds of members of the Adventist community.

Inspiration and Commitment

The activities of February 6, 2025, began with a welcoming ceremony. Edward Heidinger, executive secretary of the South American Division (SAD), led an opening prayer.

Then, the long-awaited ribbon cutting took place, symbolizing the official inauguration of the new Faama church and the Latin American Adventist Theological Seminary (SALT).

Among the church leaders present were Stanley Arco, president of the Adventist Church in South America, and André Dantas, who leads the Adventist Church in Pará, Amapá and Maranhão, states that make up the North Brazil Union Mission. Other Adventist institutions also joined the celebration, such as the Belém Adventist Hospital, the Brazilian Publishing House, the Novo Tempo Communication Network, and Adventist Health.

After the unveiling of the inaugural plaque, a moment marked the entrance of those present into the new Faama church, accompanied by the hymn “Templo Vivo” (Living Temple), performed by a female quartet from the institution. The dedication service was notable for its atmosphere of reverence and gratitude, with special music and inspiring messages.

José Prudêncio Júnior, the institution's general director, highlighted the importance of this moment for the institution.

"One of the things I like most about Faama is its ability to welcome church festivities. This past week, we have experienced historic and unforgettable moments. We hosted the 15th Theological Symposium with all theology professors from South America and then held the Pastors' Council of the North Brazilian Union, with approximately 500 pastors. But the greatest emotion was the opportunity to inaugurate our new church with all these pastors and leaders, and with the presence of Pastor Ted Wilson, world leader of the Adventist Church. It was the greatest gift we could have received in the year in which we celebrate 15 years of existence of this institution," celebrated the director.

Message of Hope

The highlight of the program came during a moment of inspiration and commitment, with a biblical message delivered by Wilson himself, translated by Pastor Alberto Timm. In his words, the world church leader emphasized the importance of Christian service, missionary dedication and love for others, especially in challenging regions such as the Amazon.

Knowledge and Reflection

Also during the program, archaeologist and theologian Rodrigo Silva gave a lecture that addressed topics of biblical and historical relevance, connecting faith and science.

The event also included a ceremony to hand over the keys to the new temple, symbolizing the continuity of the Adventist Church's mission in the North. Pastor Ted Wilson, when handing over the keys to local leaders, highlighted the importance of spiritual leadership based on principles of integrity and service.

Amazon in the Heart of the Mission

The presence of the world church's leader reinforces the Adventist Church’s commitment to humanitarian projects that benefit isolated communities in the Amazon, SAD leaders share.

The initiatives include health, education and Bible study activities, many of which are carried out by boats that navigate the region’s rivers, bringing hope where access is limited.

"We have to remember that the Seventh-day Adventist Church follows the precepts of Jesus Christ and medical missionary work, a ministry that helps people everywhere in the world - working to care for and restore people into the image of our Lord," Wilson said.

A Milestone in the History of the Adventist Church in Pará

Wilson’s visit to Pará was not just a denominational event, but a milestone in the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the region. Leaders believe the meeting sent a clear message: the mission to serve and transform lives continues to live on, pulsating strongly in every corner of the Amazon.

The day ended with an atmosphere of gratitude and renewal of faith, as leaders, members and visitors were inspired by the example of dedication and love for others.

Pastor André Dantas highlighted the impact of Wilson's visit and Pastor Stanley Arco on the mission of Adventists in the region.

"The banner 'Strong in the Word' is something that touches all of us. The encouragement to study the Bible, live the Bible and preach the Bible is fundamental to our identity. The visit of Pastor Ted Wilson, representing the General Conference, and Pastor Stanley, representing the South American Division, further strengthens this banner, because we know how much the church at a global level has worked to ensure that members remain firm in their identity, believing and preaching the prophetic messages that we need to share in our days."

During his visit, Wilson had the opportunity to see and board the historic Luzeiro I boat, which is on display at the SALT museum.

The vessel is a symbol of pioneering medical missionary work in the Amazon, bringing health care and hope to thousands of riverside communities in the 1930s. As he explored the interior of the boat, the world leader was visibly moved, reflecting on the transformative impact of this missionary work that, decades later, continues to inspire generations to serve with dedication and compassion.

Press Conference

Amidst their busy schedule, Wilson, Arco, and Dantas set aside a special moment to hold a press conference with journalists from various Church fields and institutions. During the meeting, they shared their impressions of missionary work in the northern region of Brazil, highlighting the impact of humanitarian actions and the strengthening of faith in Amazonian communities.

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