Pastor Saw Samuel, Associate Secretary of the General Conference and former president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), has been elected as one of the vice presidents of the General Conference during the 62nd General Conference Session in St. Louis, Missouri.
His election follows the recent appointments of Pastor Erton Köhler as president of the world church, Pastor Rick McEdward as executive secretary, and Pastor Paul Douglas as treasurer. Joining them are the newly elected vice presidents—Pastor Thomas Lemon, Pastor Audrey Andersson, Pastor Pierre Omeler, Pastor Artur Stele, Pastor Saw Samuel, Pastor Leonard Johnson, and Pastor Robert Osei-Bonsu—who together will lead and shape the global mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church over the next five years.
From Southern Asia-Pacific to the Global Stage
Pastor Saw Samuel has long been recognized for his quiet strength and strategic leadership in the Adventist world field. Elected as Associate Secretary of the General Conference in June 2022, he has served as a key liaison to the Northern Asia-Pacific, Southern Asia-Pacific, Southern Asia, and West-Central Africa Divisions—regions marked by diversity, complexity, and immense mission opportunities.
His earlier leadership journey included dedicated service in Thailand and the Philippines, and later as president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division. In each post, Pastor Samuel demonstrated unwavering commitment to the mission of the church and a Christ-centered approach to leadership.
An Academic and Ministerial Journey
Pastor Samuel holds a bachelor’s degree from Spicer Memorial College in India, a Master of Arts degree from Andrews University in Michigan, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) in the Philippines.
His academic preparation and years of field experience have enabled him to contribute meaningfully to both local ministry and international church administration, always prioritizing integrity, unity, and the gospel commission.
Family and Faith
He is married to Dr. Orathai Chureson, who currently serves as the Children’s Ministries Director of the General Conference. Together, they have two children—Amanda and Paul. As a couple deeply involved in both ministry and family life, they continue to be a source of inspiration to fellow leaders and church members worldwide.
A Leader for This Time
With his election as General Conference Vice President, Pastor Saw Samuel brings to the world church a rare combination of theological depth, cross-cultural understanding, and a lifetime of mission-focused leadership. His influence will be pivotal in helping the church navigate both emerging challenges and expanding opportunities across continents.
His life story is a testimony to faithful service—of a man called from Myanmar to serve the world field, now stepping into a role that continues to shape the future of the Seventh-day Adventist Church around the globe.