Around 80 people from across the South Pacific gathered at Fulton Adventist University College in Sabeto, Fiji, for Digital Discipleship Training 2023. Held on September 6–9, the event was promoted by the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) Youth Department to equip participants to connect their faith and the digital world.

Attendees hailed from nations such as Tuvalu, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga, American Samoa, and Kiribati.

Themed “Sailing the Digital Waves with Jesus,” the training emphasized the necessity of leveraging the digital era’s tools while staying anchored in faith. The program explored the multifaceted area of technology, highlighting its potential for both advancing the Gospel and posing challenges.

Expressing his satisfaction with the program, Pastor Uili Tinomeneta, TPUM Youth director, said it was “fruitful and rewarding.” He highlighted the empowerment of participants and the wisdom shared by digital experts from various regions.

The list of speakers included Pastor Wayne Boehm, Hope Channel South Pacific director; Dr. Nick Kross, South Pacific Division Religious Liberty and Public Affairs director; Tim McTernan, Adventist Media Marketing manager; Tipalelupe Tapuai, American Samoa Hope Channel director; Ana Alburqueque, ADRA South Pacific TPUM technical advisor; Damuel Gambol, Hope Channel Philippines director; John Tausere, TPUM Communication and Digital Media coordinator; and Maika Tuima, TPUM Creative Media producer.

In addition to the presentations, participants were also inspired by the Digital Journey booth, which displayed the evolution of communication tools over the years, showcasing how the Seventh-day Adventist church has utilized these mediums to fulfill its mission.

Loanne Liligeto, Solomon Islands Mission Communication, News, and Promotions officer, emphasized the theme’s importance. “Being a digital disciple requires the power of the Holy Spirit to first change oneself and then help others know God,” she said as she praised the event as an eye-opening experience.

Dr. Kross noted how the event brought together church leaders and youth representatives to learn practical skills for creating engaging content on social media platforms. He believes this knowledge will attract young people to faith communities.

The original version of this story was posted on the Adventist Record website.