Following the official approval by the GC Executive Committee to establish an Ellen White Research Center at Asia-Pacific International University in Thailand, the Ellen G. White Estate Board has appointed Pastor Mahaingam Varah as the EGW Research Center Director on March 13, 2024. Pastor Varah, currently serving as the Senior Pastor of the Adventist Church on the Asia-Pacific International University Campus, brings valuable leadership to this pivotal role.
Pastor Varah is recognized for his dedication and commitment to his roles as a pastor, educator, and administrator. His ability to establish connections with others and his relentless pursuit of the advancement of the church organization have earned him this important responsibility. Pastor Varah remains steadfast in upholding his faith and fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by the church.
Bringing a wealth of experience to his new role, Pastor Varah's career spans various positions of leadership and ministry. Pastor Varah recently graduated from the EGW Certificate program at Andrews University, hosted at AIIAS. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in theology from Spicer Memorial College in Pune, Maharashtra, India, and a bachelor’s degree in education from Spicer Adventist University. He furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Religion from Andrews University in Michigan, USA, and a Master of Arts in Social Sciences (History) from Tilak University in Pune, India.
Pastor Varah's commitment to mission work is evident from his tenure as a missionary with the 1000 Missionary Movement in Cavite, Philippines, from 2012 to 2013. Prior to this, he served as a missionary at the Maringmi Memorial School in Manipur, India, from 2009 to 2012, and as headmaster and church pastor in Phungyar, Ukhrul District, Manipur, India, from 2006 to 2009.
In his new role, Pastor Varah takes on the vital task of guiding and nurturing both students and congregants at Asia-Pacific International University, facilitating their immersion in the teachings of the Spirit of Prophecy. The establishment will serve as a central hub for resources aimed at enriching and equipping individuals with a deeper understanding of the Bible, the cornerstone of Adventist beliefs, and the pivotal role of the Spirit of Prophecy in fostering spiritual growth among church members. Pastor Varah's steadfast dedication to education and ministry is poised to ignite inspiration and foster unity within the community, aligning with the university's overarching mission of holistic development.
The appointment of Pastor Mahaingam Varah underscores the church’s commitment to fostering a spiritually enriching environment for church members in different parts of the world. As he takes on this new challenge, Pastor Varah remains steadfast in his faith and unwavering in his pursuit of serving the Lord and his community.
Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department