The Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has declared its full support for the global church's commemoration of the 160th anniversary of the Adventist Church's organization. The celebration will take place on May 21, 2023, with the theme "Chosen for Mission."
It was voted on on the 2nd of May 2023, during the SSD Midyear Meeting. "To accept that all Unions, conferences, missions, institutions, and local churches participate in the 160th anniversary celebration of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on May 20-21, 2023, with the theme, "Chosen for Mission."
On May 21, 1863, the Adventist Church was founded in Battle Creek, Michigan, USA, and has since grown to approximately 21 million members worldwide. The SSD, which consists of 14 nations, is one of the Adventist Church's 13 global divisions.
SSD officials expressed their excitement about the upcoming anniversary and the significance of recognizing the church's 160-year mission.
"We are thrilled to join the world church in celebrating this historic event," SSD President Pastor Roger Caderma remarked. "For 160 years, the Adventist Church has been an inspiration to millions around the world, sharing the message of God's love and salvation."
The SSD leadership reiterated its full support for the international church's celebration preparations, which include special events and activities commemorating the Adventist Church's history and mission.
During the midyear meeting, it was recommended that programs and activities be planned in various organizations and institutions, including unions, conferences, and missions; educational institutions; hospitals and healthcare institutions; publishing houses; local churches; and other Adventist institutions.
"We are committed to collaborating with the global church to make this celebration memorable,” Pastor Wendell Mandolang, executive secretary of the Southern Asia-Pacific region, confirmed. "We will be taking part in a variety of events and activities, such as special worship services, community outreach, and mission-focused initiatives," he explained.
In view of the world's current concerns, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division leadership also emphasized the necessity of the Adventist Church's mission.
"At a time when the world is facing so many challenges, the message of hope and love that the Adventist Church brings is more important than ever," said Pastor Jacinth Adap, the division's treasurer. "As we celebrate this milestone, let us renew our commitment to sharing this message with those around us, and let us continue to anchor ourselves in Christ, the foundation of our faith," Adap added.
The Adventist Church's 160th anniversary celebration is designed to engage millions of members worldwide and will be a time of contemplation, celebration, and recommitment to the church's mission. The SSD leadership expressed excitement about this event and invited all members to attend.
Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department