Under the theme, “Jesus Is Coming, I Will Go!”, the 62nd General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church was held from July 3 to 12, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri, drawing nearly 2,800 delegates from around the world.
The session opened with vibrant praise and worship, followed by a message from Pastor Mark Finley, who called the Church to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit beyond mere structure, setting a strong spiritual tone for the meetings. Business sessions began immediately, tackling sensitive agenda items such as time limits on speeches, a proposal to review the Church’s 2015 immunization statement, and amendments to the Church Manual. These discussions highlighted the diversity of cultures and theological perspectives within the global Church. General Conference President Ted N. C. Wilson addressed misunderstandings surrounding the Church’s position on vaccines and reaffirmed its transparency and consistency in policy.
One of the most anticipated moments of the session was the election of new leadership. Erton C. Köhler was elected as the new GC President, marking the first time a leader from South America has held the post. He presented the “Mission Refocus” initiative, a strategy that emphasizes outreach to urban areas, post-Christian regions, and the 10/40 Window. According to his Secretary’s Report, over 10,000 new churches have been established in the past five years. Köhler emphasized the Church’s shared mission: “to spread love, restoration, and hope to every nation.” Treasurer Paul H. Douglas also reported a 16% increase in tithe and a 17% increase in offerings. He highlighted the impact of the “Mission Impact Fund,” which, aligned with the “I Will Go” initiative, contributed to over one million baptisms and reached more than 12,000 people worldwide.
On Sabbath, the New President, Köhler, delivered his first sermon titled “Boldness in Mission,” urging members to stay rooted in the Bible and to follow the example of Jesus. “We preach the Word, we teach the Word, and by God’s grace, we live the Word,” he declared, stirring deep spiritual reflection among attendees. That evening, the North American Division shared its video report, followed by the Middle East and North Africa Union Mission, which showcased significant growth despite legal and social restrictions, achieved through digital evangelism, community center restoration, and small group ministry.
On the following day evening, the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) report followed. The delegation of nearly 90 representatives took the stage dressed in beautiful traditional attire. In particular, the traditional fan dance performed by the women delegates captivated the audience and received enthusiastic applause. Following the beautiful performance, a video presentation from the NSD showcased the wonderful mission work God had accomplished through the division during the past session. Many General Conference attendees praised the name of God for the work of saving souls presented in the NSD report.
In addition, the NSD hosted a booth to highlight the diverse cultures of its territory. Institutions such as Sahmyook Food Factory, Sahmyook University, and Sahmyook Medical Center also participated to promote their ministries. Visitors enjoyed cultural games like Korean jacks and shuttlecock kicking, received gifts, and experienced a joyful and engaging atmosphere.
As the session continued, leaders from various departments, the secretariat, treasury, and divisions were elected. In the Northern Asia-Pacific Division, Pastor Kang SoonGi was elected as the new division president, along with Pastor Toshio Shibata (Secretary) and Elder Kim TaeSeung (Treasurer). Amendments to the Church Manual included replacing the term “discipleship” with “disciple-making” to stress local church responsibility, as well as clarifications on church disbandment procedures, financial accountability, and abuse prevention policies. Division reports featured inspiring mission stories, including ongoing evangelism during the Ukraine conflict, disaster response in the South Pacific, and youth-led outreach across Africa. A special time of prayer and recognition was held to mark the formation of the South Sudan Union.
A notable highlight was the intergenerational collaboration among delegates. Young and senior representatives worked side by side, symbolizing the Church’s commitment to mentoring and mission continuity across generations.
Children’s Ministries emphasized the role of young people in the Church’s future, presenting new resources grounded in the Three Angels’ Messages.
The Biblical Research Institute (BRI) shared a video summary of its theological contributions, including publications such as Sola Scriptura, Revisiting the Trinity, and reflections on faith in the digital age. “The Bible is the supreme authority in all matters of faith and practice,” one speaker affirmed, reinforcing the Church’s theological foundation.
The session also served as a platform for community outreach. Local Adventist churches in St. Louis collaborated to provide food and supplies to refugee families in the area. The General Conference also presented a $100,000 donation to support recovery efforts following recent tornado damage.
At the Women’s Ministries gathering, held under the theme “I Will Go Reach My World,” female leaders from around the globe gathered to affirm their role in the Church’s mission and spiritual leadership.
On the final day, Pastor John Bradshaw offered a closing devotional, inviting attendees to return to their home fields renewed in purpose and faith.
This session was more than administrative reform or leadership transition—it was a reaffirmation of the Church’s calling and direction. United under the declaration “Jesus Is Coming, I Will Go!”, the global Seventh-day Adventist Church leaves St. Louis ready to share the everlasting gospel to the ends of the earth.
