GC Annual Council Approves Realignment of Divisions
17 October 2023 |
The General Conference Annual Council has approved the realignment of three divisions within the church, according to news from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website. Stemming from years of contemplation and backed by the Mission Refocus Program, this change is expected to intensify mission outreach and strengthen financial stability.
The realignment primarily concerns the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD), and the Southern Asia Division (SUD). Three countries from SSD – Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh – will now come under the NSD jurisdiction, which also includes Nepal.
This development emerged after the Northern Asia-Pacific Division expressed interest in expanding its territories. Despite losing the China Union Mission in 2019, the NSD saw impressive growth in tithe income, signifying the church members’ unwavering commitment. Their aspiration aligns with the Church’s global objectives, especially in reaching out to the 10/40 window.
President Ted Wilson fully supports the initiative, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity and collaboration. “We are working towards an enlarged perspective for NSD,” Wilson remarked. The aim is to foster a comprehensive administrative approach encompassing various cultures and backgrounds.
Elder Roger Caderma, president of the SSD, “shared his mixed emotions about seeing fellow colleagues in the ministry transferred to new territories. He emphasized the joy in witnessing the expansion of the Lord’s work and mission outreach,” according to the site. Though challenges like cultural differences and travel requirements loom, division leaders assure comprehensive solutions. They call for unity and prayers to successfully serve the “10/40 window” countries.
Approximately 51,000 Adventist Church members reside in the three affected areas. The region also boasts several Adventist-run schools, publishing companies, and hospitals.
