The Albanian Mission (ALM) welcomed three officers from the General Conference (GC) of Seventh-day Adventists from June 22-26, 2026. The visit provided President Erton Köhler, Secretary Richard McEdward, and Treasurer Paul Douglas, an opportunity to better understand the realities of mission in Albania, strengthen partnerships, and encourage the local church as it continues to expand its outreach across the country.

According to Köhler, the visit was part of an annual initiative to gain a clearer picture of the realities of mission in different parts of the world.

"As General Conference officers, we intentionally visit places where the church faces significant mission challenges. This year, we chose Albania to better understand its reality and how we can best support the mission."

Throughout their stay, the delegation participated in a series of meetings with leaders from the Adriatic Union Conference (AUC), the Trans-European Division (TED), and the Albanian Mission. These conversations focused on the opportunities, challenges, and future vision for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Albania.

Inauguration of the HopeMedia Albania studios

A highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the HopeMedia Albania Studios, a new media center dedicated to sharing the biblical gospel through digital platforms. During the opening ceremony, the officers toured the new facilities and learned about the vision behind the project.

Reflecting on the inauguration, Douglas expressed both admiration and confidence in the future of the ministry.

"It was a great privilege to attend the opening of the HopeMedia Studios here in Albania," he said. "Looking at what was created in the space that was available, I am amazed by the possibilities and the potential of what will happen here."

Douglas also reaffirmed the Adventist Church's commitment in supporting the initiative.

"During my visit, I learned a new Albanian word, 'besa', a word that conveys trust, faithfulness, and keeping one's promise. That word inspired me because it reflects our commitment to stand together with the Albanian Mission as partners while they proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through media.”

OneVoice27 in Albania

Among the topics presented during the visit were the mission strategies of OneVoice27. During meetings with church leaders, the GC officers learned how the initiative is bringing together churches, ministries, and members in a collaborative approach to evangelism across Albania.

Reflecting on what he observed, McEdward said, "This time I see remarkable growth and the development of infrastructure through the leadership of the pastors." He noted that this spirit of collaboration is clearly reflected in the vision of OneVoice27.

Visiting local churches and mission projects

The delegation also spent time with pastors and their families during a special fellowship luncheon with leaders of AUC. The gathering provided an opportunity to listen the experiences of local leaders and encourage those serving across the country.

Another important stop was the Tirana East Seventh-day Adventist Church, where the officers visited Gentian Thomollari and his wife, Sanda. There, the officers learned about the family's media ministry and how they have been using digital platforms to support evangelism and local church ministry.

The group also visited the newly opened Lighthouse Center of Influence in Durrës. Hosted by the missionary family of Adriel and Sarah Henke, the officers explored the vision behind the project and saw how the center is creating meaningful connections with the community through hospitality, creative initiatives, and intentional relationships.

Their itinerary also included a visit to the local Adventist kindergarten. They met teachers and kids and learned more about the church's investment in Christian education as part of its long-term mission strategy.

For Delmar Reis, president of ALM, this time was both an encouragement and a reaffirmation of the church's mission.

"The visit of the Seventh-day Adventist world church leaders is a deeply meaningful moment for the Adventist Church in Albania," Reis said. "Their presence affirms the mission initiatives we are advancing throughout the country and inspires our pastors, leaders, and members to continue serving with renewed commitment."

Zlatko Musija, president of AUC, described the visit as an important reminder of Albania's contribution to the worldwide mission. "Although we are one of the smallest unions, their presence encourages us. The ideas and resources they shared will strengthen our work."

As the visit came to an end, Köhler reflected on what the delegation had witnessed during their time in Albania. "It was an amazing experience," he said. "We came to understand the challenges, see the dreams, and become part of the initiatives taking place here. We are returning home with a much better understanding of the reality in Albania and how we can best support the church."

Köhler added that the visit was not only about offering support, but also about learning from Albania's example. "We are one church family. Although we serve in different parts of the world, we strengthen one another. What we have seen here is inspiring”.

As the visit came to a close, the GC officers returned home with a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges of mission in Albania, they shared. At the same time, the Albanian church leaders stated that they look ahead with renewed encouragement, knowing they are supported by partners across the worldwide church.

This article was provided by the Albanian Mission.