For church leaders across the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), the annual Year-End Meeting is a highly anticipated event. It’s a time for reflection, deep discussions, and collaborative planning as leaders tackle the developments and challenges the church faces in a rapidly changing world. Experienced leaders from a variety of organizations and institutions carefully consider future projects and programs while evaluating policies, reviewing ministries, and initiatives.
Day 1 came and went in like a whirlwind. For those of you who couldn’t tune into the livestream, here’s your recap of what’s unfolding in the SSD and what to expect in the days ahead. Whether you’re an active church member or simply curious about our mission, this summary will help you stay informed and engaged with the church’s goals and activities this territory.
Reorganization of the North Philippine Union Conference
The SSD Year-end Executive Committee has voted for the North Philippine Union Conference (NPUC) to have its special constituency meeting on November 19, 2024, to vote on the proposed dissolution of NPUC. This step is essential for forming two new administrative bodies: the Northern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM) and the Southern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (SLPUM). Following this decision, constituency meetings for NLPUM and SLPUM will be held on November 20 and 21, respectively, to establish their structures and begin the transition process. The two new organizations is expected to start operations effective on January 1, 2025. This organizational change aims to enhance regional support and mission effectiveness in the Philippines.
Bible Workers Curriculum
Recognizing the lack of Adventist colleges offering theological and ministerial training in countries like Cambodia, Laos, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) has voted to establish a supervised training, certification, and recognition process for Bible workers and ministry personnel in these areas. This new system will ensure doctrinal coherence and curriculum relevancy, with oversight from local missions and conferences in collaboration with SSD’s Education and Ministerial Departments. This initiative supports the General Conference's recognition standards (IBMTE) for religion teachers and aims to align training programs with Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA) standards.
Adventist Mission Responsibility Distinction
The Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) has clarified the roles of its Adventist Mission Office, which is responsible for two core functions: managing church planting efforts among unreached people groups (Global Mission) and promoting mission awareness to encourage support for church initiatives. The office also oversees interfaith outreach to Muslim, Buddhist, Chinese, Hindu, Secular/Post-Modern, and Urban communities and manages the Adventist Volunteer Services (AVS). To maintain focus, SSD has voted to ensure that no additional duties are assigned to Adventist Mission Directors beyond these established responsibilities and has recommended that AVS fall directly under the Adventist Mission Office’s supervision. Additionally, updates to the Mission Director’s job description were recommended.
Reinforcing the Need for the Spirit of Prophecy Coordinator
To address the rise of false teachings and online misinformation impacting Adventist beliefs, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division has encouraged all Unions and local conferences to emphasize the role of the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) in strengthening the faith and identity of members. This initiative highlights the importance of the Conference SOP (CSOP) Coordinator, whose role is to educate pastors, elders, and church members on Adventist beliefs through Spirit of Prophecy resources and programs. The CSOP Coordinator oversees seminars, training, and resource distribution within local churches, ensuring doctrinal clarity and fostering the mission of the Adventist Church. This role is essential in guiding members, maintaining Adventist heritage, and reclaiming those who may have left the faith.
Unified Branding Signage
The Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) has launched a church signage massive promotion to encourage over 12,000 Adventist churches and companies to install signage that aligns with the Adventist Church’s official branding and identity guidelines. Recognizing that clear, welcoming signage helps visitors and members locate churches and strengthens Adventist identity, the program offers a series of awards and incentives to motivate participation.
Program Highlights:
Promotional Campaign: SSD Communications will distribute materials to promote the initiative, emphasizing it during meetings and events.
Recognition Awards: Churches will earn “Adventist Identity Awards” at varying levels (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze) based on how quickly they implement the signage.
Media Features: Participating churches will be showcased in SSD’s official media, recognizing their commitment to Adventist branding.
The program will launch with detailed guidelines and a timeline, making resources available to help churches participate and receive recognition.
Stay tuned for more updates and be informed about the latest news about the Southern Asia-Pacific Division Year-end Meetings.
Edward Rodriguez
Email: erodriguez@ssd.org