Leaders, administrators, and staff of the Inter-American Division (IAD) gathered on November 9, 2025, for a farewell ceremony honoring former IAD President Elie Henry and his wife Ketlie, whose combined decades of ministry have left a profound imprint on the church across the territory. The evening event, filled with gratitude, laughter, and stories of influence, highlighted the Henrys’ spirit of humility, compassion, and unwavering devotion to God’s mission.

A Model of Kindness, Wisdom, and Compassion

IAD president Abner De los Santos opened the tributes, recalling the Henrys’ years of service and their role in shaping the division during a time of both challenges and growth.

“You have seen Inter-America develop through many adventures, lessons, and challenges,” De los Santos said. “Your ministry has been marked by dedication, compassion, and a clear vision of what God wants for His church. You have been colleagues, pastors, mentors—an inspiration for all of Inter-America.”

He shared personal memories as well, recalling moments when Henry comforted him and his family during difficult times.

De los Santos said, “I will always remember Elie’s kindness, his friendly smile, and the compassion he extended to us. Today we simply say: thank you. May the Lord continue to accompany you in this new stage of life. Inter-America will always have open arms for you.”

De los Santos also praised Ketlie’s long-standing registrar’s role in the Inter-American Adventist Theologial Seminary (IATS).

“Thank you, Ketlie, for caring for every detail, every record, every thesis—including my own,” he said with a smile. “Your commitment has blessed this entire territory.”

A Leader Shaped by Humility and Grace

IAD Treasurer Ivelisse Herrera offered one of the evening’s most heartfelt reflections, speaking not only as an administrator but also on behalf of staff who worked closely with Henry.

“I knew Pastor Henry in two ways: the human being and the leader,” she said. “As a person, he is prudent, tactful, always willing to listen, and full of empathy. As a president, even in the shortest decisions, he showed deep respect for the roles of his colleagues. His humility was not only admirable—it was a teaching in itself.”

Herrera recalled how Henry approached each financial decision with careful respect, always asking, “How will this affect the division’s liquidity?”—a question she said revealed both integrity and collaboration.

“Pastor Henry has been a teacher to me,” she added. “And Ketlie, thank you for being a woman of prayer. You have been the Pastor’s support, a model wife, and an example to all of us.”

Expressions of Admiration and Affection

Presidents from across the IAD territory added their voices, each reflecting on the Henrys’ qualities that shaped their leadership.

Ricardo Marín, president of the Costa Rica Mission, highlighted what many saw as the defining characteristic of their ministry.

“What we admired most—and what we must continue—is humility,” he said. “You carried a pastoral heart, always identifying with us, always calming us with a smile. We love you deeply.”

From the French Antilles-Guiana Union, Eddy-Michel Carpin spoke emotionally in French, calling Henry “a counselor, a man of balance, and a leader marked by rare sensitivity.”

“You never imposed your academic titles on anyone,” Carpin said. “Your wisdom has been a source of hope. Inter-America has been marked not only by what you accomplished, but by who you are.”

Kern Tobias, president of the Caribbean Union, summed up the Henrys’ ministry in “three Cs”—character, competence, and compassion.

“You reflect the character of Christ—serving more than seeking to be served,” Tobias said. “You are one of the most academically capable leaders of our time, and Ketlie matches you in competence. But above all, it was your compassion that touched us.”

He shared the story of a young Caribbean pastor who struggled financially while studying at Andrews University. Unbeknownst to him, Henry helped create a way for the IAD to support the young man’s studies.

“One of the last decisions you made as president was to help that young pastor,” Tobias said. “That compassion is what we will remember forever.”

Orpha de la Cruz, women’s ministries director of the Dominican Union, representing the wives of presidents and executive secretaries, honored Ketlie’s warmth and spiritual strength.

“Beyond your prayers, Ketlie, we admire your empathy and your desire for all of us to give our best,” she said. “Wherever God leads you next, His plans will always be the best.”

A Legacy Woven into the Life of Inter-America

Through video stories, photos, and shared memories, IAD expressed Henry’s leadership, one that was not defined merely by organizational decisions but by relationships, presence, and pastoral care, church leaders said. Many leaders noted that the Henrys' legacy continues in the lives they touched—from staff members and administrators to pastors, families, and students across the division.

As the ceremony closed, De los Santos affirmed, “In Inter-America, retirement does not end mission. You will always have a place here, and your influence will continue. Thank you for living the mission, and for inspiring us to do the same.”

The gathering ended with warm embraces, a prayer of blessing, and a standing ovation for a couple whose ministry has shaped the heart of Inter-America for more than two decades.

Henry expressed heartfelt appreciation to the leaders and staff who welcomed and worked alongside him throughout his years at the IAD. He reflected on his time serving as HR vice president, executive secretary, and later as president, noting that the spirit of the office deeply shaped his ministry.

“I carry with me the passion of this place,” he said. “Wherever the Lord leads me, I will keep speaking about the Inter-American Division,” he added. “Many of you have told me you still love me—and please know, the feeling is mutual.”

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