From the front lines of mission—straight to your inbox

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Related topics One Gospel, many urban accents: rethinking mission in the world’s cities New resources and mission experiences highlight the need for approaches shaped by the people and communities of each city.
Seventh-day Adventist mission in the world’s cities cannot rely on a single model or approach, Manuel Arteaga told members of the General Conference (GC) Executive Committee on October 11, calling on church leaders to listen more closely to the communities they hope to reach. Arteaga, director of the Globla Mission Center for Urban Mission (CFUM) at the GC, presented his report on the third day of Annual Council, highlighting lessons from urban mission projects around the world and outlining new initiatives designed to connect, inspire, and equip urban missionaries and church planters. “There’s no such thing as ‘the city,’” Arteaga said. “We have cities, and they’re diverse, and they’re different, and each one of them has a different context.” Urban mission, he added, requires the church “to learn how to speak to each and every one of these contexts.” Drawing on the experience of Pentecost, Arteaga said the early church did not expect people to learn its language first. Instead, through the Holy Spirit, the church learned to speak theirs. That principle, he said, shapes the work of CFUM, one of six Global Mission Centers supporting the church in sharing the gospel across diverse cultural and religious contexts. Rather than exporting a single urban mission model worldwide, the center works with divisions to develop approaches suited to individual cities. “There is one gospel that we proclaim. We know that we have one mission as a church,” Arteaga said. But reaching diverse cities, he added, requires the church to speak in “many urban accents.” Listening to cities During the past year, CFUM leaders visited several regions to listen, learn, and develop mission approaches alongside local leaders. Those conversations centered on a key question: “What are our cities saying?” Arteaga said effective urban church planting must go beyond simply establishing churches in cities or for cities. Congregations, he said, should be “doing life with the city,” understanding their communities and building bridges with the people who live there. The center also worked with church leaders to develop contextualized mission initiatives for priority cities and to produce Urban Life in the Word , a new Bible study resource designed to explore biblical prophecy from an urban perspective. The resource is part of a broader series of Bible studies developed collaboratively by the six Global Mission Centers to reach people from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. The studies include materials designed for Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, urban, and secular audiences. Plans call for the studies to be made available online through Adventist World Radio ’s Global Bible School. Online training designed to help members and mission workers use them will also be available. Divisions will also be able to localize materials for their own cultural and mission contexts, in collaboration with the Global Mission Centers. “We don’t have the answer,” Arteaga said of CFUM’s role. “We are here to make sure that we come alongside you to discern faithful answers together,” including asking what the Holy Spirit is already doing in cities around the world. Mission taking different forms Arteaga illustrated that approach with experiences from recent visits to Japan and cities in Taiwan, where he saw mission taking different forms according to the opportunities within each community. In Tokyo, Japan, Adventists are using hospitality, house churches, and urban centers of influence to connect with people in one of the world’s highly secular cities. One house church began during the COVID-19 pandemic after a woman facing a cancer diagnosis began worshiping at home with her children. One Sabbath, a neighborhood boy knocked on the door and asked if he could join. He returned with friends, and the group continued to grow. Arteaga said about 20 young adults now regularly gather for worship in her home. In Taiwan, Arteaga met a businessman whose encounter with Jesus changed the way he used his time and resources. An apartment purchased with money his mother had saved for retirement became a place of worship in his community. To connect with neighbors, he began playing the ukulele and writing songs based on their stories. “What we see in him is someone who is faithfully using his time and his talents to reach people for Jesus Christ,” he said. Another experience came from a Korean pastor serving in Taiwan who initially tried to reach students at a nearby university but encountered restrictions on proselytizing. Interest in Korean culture eventually provided another way to connect. Students approached the pastor to learn Korean, and those relationships developed into a language club. Arteaga said the ministry has since expanded, creating opportunities to connect with students and share the gospel. Finding the next urban missionaries The experiences led Arteaga to turn his attention to people who may already have ideas for reaching their cities but need encouragement and support to move forward. “How many more potential missionaries?” he asked. “How many more young adults are staying awake at night, imagining this church plant that they believe [in]?” Arteaga outlined plans for a new global initiative centered on what he called “Dreamers,” designed to connect people with a vision for urban mission. Plans include a video series featuring missionaries, urban centers of influence, church plants, and house churches from across the world, allowing their experiences to be shared in one place. “A space where ‘Dreamers’ inspire ‘Dreamers’ to do mission,” Arteaga said. “A space where realized mission awakens new mission. A space where someone’s mission breakthrough becomes someone else’s mission beginning.” The center also plans to launch the Dreamers Academy, an online space where those interested in starting an urban mission initiative can learn the steps involved and receive coaching. A Dreamers Playbook and stories featuring church planters, Urban Center of Influence pioneers, house church leaders, and other urban missionaries are also planned. Arteaga closed his report by returning to the idea that reaching cities requires the church to understand and speak to their different contexts. “The city may not speak our language, but the Holy Spirit teaches us to speak theirs,” he said. “One name. One gospel. One voice. And we will do so in many urban accents.” This article was provided by the ANN . Get to know the region More Stories Topics

New resources and mission experiences highlight the need for approaches shaped by the people and communities of each city.

One Gospel, many urban accents: rethinking mission in the world’s cities

Related topics Global Mission Centers introduce new Bible studies for diverse communities Six new Bible study guides designed to share faith across cultures and religions.
In response to frequent requests for contextualized Bible study resources, the Seventh-day Adventist Church ’s six Global Mission Centers have developed six new study guides adaptable to local communities. ChanMin Chung, director of the Global Mission Centers, introduced the resources on October 11, during the 2026 Annual Council. These adaptable studies will provide church members and frontline workers with resources to share their faith with people from different traditions, including those who express interest through digital media. Chung explained that the centers focus on three mission windows: urban populations, secular and post-Christian communities, and the 10/40 Window. “Jesus is for everyone,” Chung emphasized. “We are not talking about headcounts or numbers. We are talking about people who need to know Jesus. That is why our six Global Mission Centers exist.” Bible studies for different audiences The new Bible studies are designed to help Adventist members and frontline workers share biblical teachings with people from different religious and cultural backgrounds. Recognizing that traditional approaches may not resonate with every audience, the guides introduce Scripture through familiar concepts and questions, providing a foundation that can be adapted to the unique needs of local communities. Among the guides introduced was Prophecies of the Coming Messiah , a 12-part Bible study series developed by the Global Mission Center for Adventist-Muslim Relations. Recognizing that many Muslims honor Jesus and want to learn more about Him, the studies explore Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah and their fulfillment in Jesus' life. “Our goal is to equip Adventists to use these 12 Bible studies with their Muslim friends to explore the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah and how they were fulfilled in the life of Jesus,” explained Petras Badahaur, director of the Global Mission Center for Adventist-Muslim Relations. “The studies encourage respectful conversation and careful reading of Scripture within relationships of trust and friendship.” The Global Mission Center for Urban Ministry also developed another study, Urban Life in the Word , to connect biblical teachings with the experiences of people living in cities. The lessons explore the same gospel message and biblical prophecies found in traditional Adventist Bible studies, but approach them through the realities and questions of urban life. “The intention is more than gaining biblical knowledge. The hope is that every encounter with Scripture will lead to a deeper relationship with the God who is love,” explained Manny Arteaga, director of the Global Mission Center for Urban Ministry. “At its heart is a simple yet transformative invitation: to fall in love with a God who knows us fully and loves us deeply.” Making the resources available The new Bible studies will be distributed to division leaders and mission directors, who will work with the Global Mission Centers to adapt the materials for their respective communities. Chung emphasized that the initial printed copies are intended for review and discussion rather than immediate public distribution, allowing local leaders to recommend changes before the studies are shared more broadly. Beyond the printed guides, the Global Bible School will make the studies available. Video versions are being developed to accommodate different learning preferences, allowing individuals to watch or listen to the lessons. To help members use these resources, the Global Mission Centers are preparing online training courses through the Adventist Learning Community . Chung also highlighted existing courses on the platform that help Adventists build friendships with people of other faiths. Following the presentation, church leaders joined in prayer to dedicate the new resources to God. The studies are expected to give Adventist members additional tools to share Jesus with people in their communities. This article was provided by the ANN . Get to know the region More Stories Topics

Six new Bible study guides designed to share faith across cultures and religions.

Global Mission Centers introduce new Bible studies for diverse communities

Bridging Worlds for Jesus
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 Learn how Global Mission Centers operate in the three Mission Refocus windows: the 10/40 Window, the Post-Christian Window, and the Urban Window.
In a world of countless beliefs and non-beliefs, where ancient traditions meet modern skepticism, where bustling cities and remote villages each speak different languages of the soul—how do we truly connect with people for Jesus? The answer lies where faith meets context, where Scripture speaks to culture, and where hope becomes a lived experience. Six Global Mission Centers serve to help us better understand and more effectively share the Adventist message with people from vastly different worldviews—people who don’t share our belief in the Bible as a sacred, inspired book. The centers help us meet people where they are, with truth wrapped in understanding. The six Global Mission Centers focus on our greatest mission challenges—the three Mission Refocus Windows—the 10/40 Window, the Post-Christian Window, and the Urban Window. Each center shares the same mission foundation—Christ’s Method of Ministry. This wholistic mission approach calls us to mingle with people, show sympathy, minister to needs, win confidence, and bid them to follow Jesus. In a complex, fractured world, the Global Mission Centers serve as mission workshops producing new resources and honing new methods. Let’s continue to pray for them as they help us transcend cultural and worldview barriers, one intentional relationship at a time. You can support their work by giving to Global Mission. And if you’d like to learn more—or find ways to use these centers’ resources in your own ministry—visit GlobalMissionCenters.org. More from this quarter Downloads Topics Get to know the region Related topics

Learn how Global Mission Centers operate in the three Mission Refocus windows: the 10/40 Window, the Post-Christian Window, and the Urban Window.

Bridging Worlds for Jesus

Related topics A Limerick of Love A Global Mission pioneer in Limerick, Ireland builds a thriving, diverse church plant where newcomers feel at home, transforming a small group of 10 into a vibrant community of 70–80 through friendship, participation, and creative outreach.
When Fillipe Lessa arrived in Limerick, Ireland, he had a simple goal: to create a place where people could feel at home. As a Global Mission pioneer, Fillipe isn’t just leading a church plant—he’s building a community. Everyone involved is encouraged to jump in, ask questions, and participate in the life of the congregation. Take Robert, for example. When the Limerick group launched, he and his wife decided to attend—and everything felt different from his previous church experiences. “From the first day, we felt welcomed,” Robert says. “I finally found my place.” Robert chose to be baptized, and today he’s an active and faithful member of the church. Limerick itself is full of diversity. The city is also increasingly post-Christian, making it important to share faith in ways that feel welcoming and relevant. Fillipe and his team work patiently and creatively, always looking for ways to connect with people where they are. The church’s growth has been remarkable. What started as a small gathering of 10 in 2019 has blossomed into 70–80 people attending each Sabbath. Many aren’t yet baptized, but they keep coming, drawn by the community and its consistent outreach. Looking ahead, the group plans to start more small groups and a community-focused fitness class. These small groups will be safe spaces for friendship, support, and spiritual growth—a place where community truly transforms. Please pray for Fillipe and his fellow Global Mission pioneers as they make a difference in their communities.  Every dollar given to Global Mission goes directly to frontline mission work, reaching remote villages and overflowing cities where millions of people are waiting to hear about Jesus. Three Ways to Give Mail — In the US: Global Mission, General Conference 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904-6601 In Canada: Global Mission, SDA Church in Canada 1148 King Street East, Oshawa, ON L1H 1H8 Online — GMsda.org/Give4 Phone — 800-648-5824 Transform Lives, One Month at a Time: Join Our Recurring Donor Family! Please remember Global Mission in your will and trusts. Visit Global-Mission.org/PlannedGiving or call 800-648-5824.  Get to know the region More Stories Topics

A Global Mission pioneer in Limerick, Ireland builds a thriving, diverse church plant where newcomers feel at home, transforming a small group of 10 into a vibrant community of 70–80 through friendship, participation, and creative outreach.

A Limerick of Love

Related topics Remembering a Man of God “Kleyton turned his illness into an opportunity to encourage missionaries and pastors who are struggling with other problems,” observed Erton Köhler, General Conference president. “He showed how we can turn even the worst adversities into a blessing to others.”
Kleyton Feitosa, former director of the Global Mission Centers at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (GC), passed away on November 20, 2024. Pastor Kleyton’s career spanned local, regional, and global mission work, providing leadership and direction within the Adventist Church. “We have lost a great spiritual mission leader,” remarked Pastor Ted Wilson, former president of the Adventist Church. “Kleyton brought a positive, balanced, mission-focused approach to everything he did as he served as the Global Mission Centers director for Adventist Mission at the General Conference.” A Ministry Built on Leadership and Service Kleyton began his pastoral ministry at Curitiba Central Church in Brazil, the largest community church in South America. Stanley Arco, president of the South American Division, observed, “Even at the beginning of his ministry in Curitiba, Kleyton’s passion for young people and his ability to connect with them were evident.” As the associate pastor for youth, he led programs fostering engagement and spiritual development, seeking to connect the young people with Christ and the Adventist Church. Arco added, “His innovative leadership and his influence have continued to inspire generations, especially in global mission work.” In 2001, Kleyton relocated to the United States to pursue advanced theological studies at Andrews University. After completing his studies, he was called to the Chesapeake Conference, where he served as pastor of the Waldorf Seventh-day Adventist Church and successfully planted a new congregation in St. Charles County, Maryland. Recognized for his administrative capabilities, Kleyton was appointed executive secretary of the Chesapeake Conference in 2011, where he worked under then-President Rick Remmers. “Kleyton demonstrated sound judgment as an administrator, which allowed him to be effective in a wide variety of settings,” recalled Remmers, now assistant to the president of the North American Division. “Kleyton had a warm and gracious spirit that drew people in. Throughout his long battle with cancer, he demonstrated a deep and abiding trust in the Lord.” Kleyton’s cross-cultural leadership experience expanded in 2014 when he accepted a call to serve as president of the Egypt-Sudan Field. In this role, Kleyton navigated complex cultural and religious contexts, focused on building local leadership capacity, and developed mission strategies in areas where Adventists were a minority. Rick McEdward, then president of the Middle East North Africa Union Mission and now General Conference executive secretary, expressed his profound sense of loss. “I have lost a dear colleague and friend. I worked closely with Kleyton when he was president of the Egypt-Sudan Field—he was a man of God whose dedication and humility inspired everyone around him . . . There will be people from at least three continents in heaven singing the song of the Lamb as a result of God’s work through Pastor Kleyton. He leaves a legacy of leadership and witness, and his impact will be felt for generations. My heart is heavy, but I thank God for his faithful life and legacy.” In 2017, Kleyton returned to the United States due to health concerns and served as pastor of the Living Word Seventh-day Adventist Church in Glen Burnie, Maryland. His ability to connect with diverse communities remained a defining feature of his ministry. Leadership at the General Conference In 2023, Kleyton was appointed director of the Global Mission Centers at the General Conference. In this capacity, he oversaw six mission centers dedicated to outreach and education for Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, post-Christian, and urban populations. The centers provide resources, training, and strategies to help Adventists build meaningful relationships and engage in working within these communities. Under Kleyton, the Global Mission Centers flourished not just because of his administration, according to Gary Krause, director of the Office of Adventist Mission, but because of his Christ-like leadership. Krause reflected, “Kleyton didn’t just talk about Jesus’ love and compassion, he modelled them. He was wise and gentle, and his faith in the face of major health challenges was a constant inspiration.” This was echoed by Petras Bahadur, director of the Global Mission Center for Adventist-Muslim Relations, who worked closely with Kleyton and could sense God’s presence in Him. Bahadur noted, “I noticed in my interactions with Kleyton as our leader, he clearly had the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and the fruit of the Spirit was manifest in his life.” Health Challenges and Resilience Kleyton’s ministry journey included health challenges. Diagnosed with liposarcoma in 2011, he underwent multiple surgeries and treatments, including the eventual amputation of his leg in 2018. Despite these trials, he continued to serve in leadership roles, demonstrating resilience and commitment to his work. “Kleyton turned his illness into an opportunity to encourage missionaries and pastors who are struggling with other problems,” observed Erton Köhler, General Conference president. “He showed how we can turn even the worst adversities into a blessing to others.” A Family Committed to Service Kleyton’s family played a central role in his ministry. His wife, Delma, an educator, supported his work while contributing to the communities they served. Their two sons, Derek and Malton, often accompanied him during his ministry assignments, gaining firsthand experience in mission work. The family’s involvement in ministry reflected their shared commitment to service and the values of Adventist mission. Their unity and faith were evident in every aspect of Kleyton’s work. Acknowledging a Life of Dedication Ted Wilson had the opportunity to visit Kleyton and his family two days before Kleyton passed away and was able to thank him for his and his family’s service to the world church. Wilson recalled, “He spoke very briefly, reminding us that the central focus of his life was mission—he cared about mission deeply. Then he just rested, with his wife by his side, holding his hand.” The Seventh-day Adventist Church recognizes Kleyton Feitosa’s contributions to local, regional, and global ministry. From his early pastoral work in Brazil to his leadership at the General Conference, his dedication to mission work and cross-cultural ministry left a lasting impact on the church’s outreach efforts. Wilson added, “Jesus is coming soon, and Kleyton will open his eyes and see his Savior coming in the clouds. Let’s lift up that beautiful truth.” This article, reprinted with permission, originally appeared in Adventist News Network , a publication of the Communication Department of the Seventh-day Adventist Church world headquarters. This article has been updated to reflect the elected positions voted at the 2025 General Conference Session. Your generous and systematic mission offerings help support the ministry of hundreds of missionaries. Thank you for giving! More from Mission 360° Magazine Topics

“Kleyton turned his illness into an opportunity to encourage missionaries and pastors who are struggling with other problems,” observed Erton Köhler, General Conference president. “He showed how we can turn even the worst adversities into a blessing to others.”


Remembering a Man of God

Related topics Dear Friends There are some 500 cities with a million inhabitants or more. In these cities, there is an average of 1 Adventist for every 89,000 inhabitants. The global average is 1 Adventist for every 358 inhabitants.
The three greatest mission challenges our church faces are what we call the Three Windows: the 10/40 Window, the Urban Window, and the Post-Christian Window. The 10/40 Window The 10/40 Window stretches from North Africa through the Middle East and into Asia. It’s home to some 60 percent of the world’s population, most major religions, and the world’s poorest people. Most people here have never heard the name of Jesus. The Urban Window The Urban Window is growing rapidly worldwide. There are some 500 cities with a million inhabitants or more. In these cities, there is an average of 1 Adventist for every 89,000 inhabitants. The global average is 1 Adventist for every 358 inhabitants. 49 cities of a million or more people have fewer than 10 Adventists, and 43 have no Adventist presence. The Post-Christian Window The Post-Christian Window includes Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and increasingly North America—countries that can no longer be called Christian and are abandoning Christian values. Please help Global Mission plant new groups of believers in unreached areas and among unreached people groups through the ministry of Global Mission centers, Global Mission pioneers, and urban centers of influence. One hundred percent of your donation goes to the front lines of mission!  Ways to Give ONLINE Make a secure financial gift quickly by scanning this QR code or visiting Global-Mission.org/giving. PHONE Call 800-648-5824 MAIL In the United States: Global Mission, General Conference 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904-6601 In Canada: Global Mission SDA Church in Canada 1148 King Street East Oshawa, ON L1H 1H8 Transform Lives, One Month at a Time: Join Our Recurring Donor Family! Please remember Global Mission in your will and trusts. Visit Global-Mission.org/PlannedGiving or call 800-648-5824. More Stories Topics

There are some 500 cities with a million inhabitants or more. In these cities, there is an average of 1 Adventist for every 89,000 inhabitants. The global average is 1 Adventist for every 358 inhabitants.

Dear Friends

Related topics The Woman Behind the Radio “Sometimes the power goes out while we’re on air, or the internet slows down—typical issues here in the village,” Sompong says. “While we’re talking, viewers might only see a frozen screen. They often call to check if we’re okay!”
W hat haven’t we tried to reach people for Jesus? Sompong wondered. She and her husband, Pastor Soonthorn, live in Thailand, where it’s challenging to reach the local people who are deeply rooted in their religion. So, the couple constantly asks God for inspiration on how to reach people more effectively. One day, while Sompong and her husband were listening to the radio, she had an idea. “Instead of just listening to the radio, why don’t we create our own program?” she asked. Pastor Soonthorn liked the idea. Starting with very limited equipment and funds, they began a radio broadcast that reached their local area. Broadcasting from a village, Sompong and her husband faced several challenges in operating their radio station. “Sometimes the power goes out while we’re on air, or the internet slows down—typical issues here in the village,” Sompong says. “While we’re talking, viewers might only see a frozen screen. They often call to check if we’re okay!” Sompong’s inspiring ministry caught the attention of the Global Mission Center for Adventist-Buddhist Relations in Ubon City, Thailand. We learned that Sompong was well-loved by her many listeners,” says center director, Khamsay Phetchareun. “So we upgraded her equipment. We also helped her with travel subsidies to visit her listeners with her husband.” The Global Mission Center has helped expand the broadcast’s range to a 62-mile (100 km) radius, allowing Sompong to share Jesus with a far greater audience. Sompong knows that a radio message alone often fails to reach a person’s heart. So, she cultivates lasting friendships with her listeners. She prays for them, answers their questions about the Bible, and accepts their invitations to visit their homes, where she ministers to their needs. “Many listeners have requested Bible studies and even been baptized,” Khamsay says. “We have three groups worshiping regularly, and soon we’ll be able to plant a new church.” Thanks to technology, this ministry can now broadcast throughout Thailand. With social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and others, their content can extend globally—even to the United States, where they already have listeners. “Please pray for this radio program to effectively reach as many Buddhists as possible with God’s message,” Sompong requests. Your generous support of Global Mission helps introduce people to Jesus who might never hear the gospel any other way. Thank you for giving them an opportunity to be part of the kingdom of God.  Ways to Give ONLINE Make a secure financial gift quickly by scanning this QR code or visiting Global-Mission.org/giving. PHONE Call 800-648-5824 MAIL In the United States: Global Mission, General Conference 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904-6601 In Canada: Global Mission SDA Church in Canada 1148 King Street East Oshawa, ON L1H 1H8 Transform Lives, One Month at a Time: Join Our Recurring Donor Family! Get to know the region More Stories Topics

“Sometimes the power goes out while we’re on air, or the internet slows down—typical issues here in the village,” Sompong says. “While we’re talking, viewers might only see a frozen screen. They often call to check if we’re okay!”

The Woman Behind the Radio

Related topics When Someone Remembers You Before each meeting, a large bus picks up participants, but some seniors struggle with the steps. To help with this issue, Alan drives a smaller van for those who need extra help. He talks with seniors during his rides, reminding them they haven’t been forgotten.
It’s a wonderful feeling when someone remembers you. In busy cities, such as those in Singapore, a need commonly lies within—the need to be remembered, the need for community. Many elderly people carry this quiet longing. Mrs. Chan spent most of her time alone. “I would just watch TV. I didn’t know what to do,” she shared. Then, she met Alan, a Global Mission pioneer who visits isolated seniors across the city. Alan invited her to join a care group hosted at the Thompson Chinese Seventh-day Adventist Church. These care groups are part of a larger effort by Adventist churches in partnership with Adventist Care Centers. Volunteers dedicate their time to planning meaningful gatherings. They organize transportation, activities, meals, and more to ensure a safe space where people can connect and feel cared for. Before each meeting, a large bus picks up participants, but some seniors struggle with the steps. To help with this issue, Alan drives a smaller van for those who need extra help. He talks with seniors during his rides, reminding them they haven’t been forgotten. For many seniors, the care group meetings are more than just weekly gatherings. Participants build friendships and find a true sense of belonging. Seventy-two-year-old Amy Leong didn’t expect much the first time she attended a care group gathering. “I had no idea what we would do. I just tried to have a positive mindset,” she said. However, she noticed that there were people her age, so she embraced the unknown. Soon, the weekly gatherings became a regular part of her life. Her husband, Simon Chiang, wasn’t initially interested but eventually joined his wife. Amy was a nominal Christian, and Simon was a non-believer when they started attending. But something began to stir in their hearts. As they spent time with other seniors, participated in worship, and studied the Bible with Pastor Kevin Tain, their interest in faith deepened. “There are times when I feel unhappy. But I feel better when I go to the church and sing,” Amy said. Today, they’re preparing for baptism, and Amy even invites others to join. Her sister, son, granddaughter, and friends have received invitations from her to join Bible study. These care groups are restoring hope and reminding people that they matter. This is what Christ’s method is all about—meeting people where they are, loving them, and gently leading them to Jesus.  Please pray for Amy, Simon, Mrs. Chan, and many others who find belonging through these ministries. Thank you for supporting mission.Ways to Give ONLINE Make a secure financial gift quickly by scanning this QR code or visiting Global-Mission.org/giving. PHONE Call 800-648-5824 MAIL In the United States: Global Mission, General Conference 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904-6601 In Canada: Global Mission SDA Church in Canada 1148 King Street East Oshawa, ON L1H 1H8 Transform Lives, One Month at a Time: Join Our Recurring Donor Family! More Stories Topics

Before each meeting, a large bus picks up participants, but some seniors struggle with the steps. To help with this issue, Alan drives a smaller van for those who need extra help. He talks with seniors during his rides, reminding them they haven’t been forgotten.

When Someone Remembers You

Related topics Mission Refocus In the 1980s, we decided it was time for another mission refocus. Leaders came together to pray and strategize. They looked at the world map and saw the areas where the church still had no presence.
There are times when our church needs to seriously examine where we have a presence in the world and where we don’t. We did this in the 1870s when our idea of fulfilling the Great Commission was limited to reaching immigrants within North America. Ellen White helped refocus our vision, and soon we were sending missionaries around the world. In the 1980s, we decided it was time for another mission refocus. Leaders came together to pray and strategize. They looked at the world map and saw the areas where the church still had no presence. It was a sobering reality check. Remedially, they voted Global Strategy in 1989, an initiative that gave birth the next year to Global Mission. Global Mission shifted our focus from reaching mostly other Christians to also starting new groups of believers among adherents of different religions and worldviews. Global Mission also helped us start focusing on unreached people groups, and not just unentered geographical areas. Its impact has been significant, with the number of churches and membership tripling within the past 34 years. But today, we face even greater mission challenges with an additional three billion people on Earth. A new refocus is needed—one that prayerfully examines our personnel, funds, and goals to see what more we can do to reach the unreached. Some areas of the church with the most significant challenges have the fewest resources to meet them. Mission Refocus is recalibrating these resources so we can reach the entire world for Jesus. Missionary William Harrison Anderson devoted more than 50 years to pioneering the Adventist work in Africa. He wrote, “I have given my money, my strength, my wife, and I intend to give the rest of my poor self to finish the work God has given me to do. I want you who read these lines to ask yourself that question, ‘Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?’” That’s a great mission refocus prayer: “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” OUR GREATEST MISSION CHALLENGES TODAY The 10/40 Window The 10/40 Window stretches from North Africa through the Middle East and into Asia. It’s home to some 60 percent of the world’s population, most major religions, and the world’s poorest people. Most here have never heard the name of Jesus. The Urban Window The Urban Window is rapidly growing. Today there are some cities of more than a million people where there is no record of an Adventist even visiting them. The Post-Christian Window The Post-Christian Window includes Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and increasingly North America—countries that can no longer be called Christian and are abandoning Christian values. HOW WE CAN MEET THEM Church planting, using Christ’s method of ministry, has proven to be the most effective way to grow and expand the church. Ellen White wrote, “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me’”— The Ministry of Healing , p. 143. Global Mission Pioneers Global Mission pioneers start new groups of believers in new areas and among new people groups. Pioneers are laypeople who work among their people, so they know the language and culture well. Supported by a small stipend, they live in a community for at least a year, making disciples who will plant more churches. Global Mission Centers Supporting the pioneers’ work, the Global Mission centers find methods and models to make the Adventist message understandable and meaningful to people with radically different worldviews. Urban Centers of Influence Ellen White championed establishing urban centers of influence to connect church members to people living in cities. Adopting this concept, Global Mission helps establish such need-focused entities. They include refugee assimilation centers, juice bars, secondhand shops, cafes, and childcare. Each follows Christ’s method of ministry to start new groups of believers. The Annual Sacrifice Offering This offering helps Global Mission start new groups of believers among unreached people, often in the most challenging places in the world. You can give by marking your tithe envelope Annual Sacrifice Offering or online at Global-Mission.org/MySacrifice . The Mission Offerings Your weekly mission offerings help support overseas missionaries and the international work of the church, such as our educational and medical work. More from Mission 360° Magazine Topics

In the 1980s, we decided it was time for another mission refocus. Leaders came together to pray and strategize. They looked at the world map and saw the areas where the church still had no presence.

Mission Refocus

Related topics Global Mission Pioneers Gather in Bali
First-ever convention draws 130 pioneers from across SSD First-ever convention draws 130 pioneers from across SSD
By Edward Rodriguez and Carol de Oliveira The first-ever Global Mission Pioneers Convention in the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) brought together an assembly of dedicated laypeople, Adventist Mission directors, and global church leaders from August 21–26, 2024, at the Plagoo Holiday Hotel in Bali, Indonesia. With the theme, “I Will Go… To See Him,” the event underscored the commitment of more than 130 pioneers who have been instrumental in spreading the gospel in some of the most challenging areas of the world. Global Mission pioneers are lay people and pastors who dedicate at least one year to establishing congregations in unentered areas within their own cultures. Their deep understanding of local customs, fluency in the language, and ability to seamlessly integrate into their communities give them a unique advantage in mission work. Since 1990, these pioneers have established over 11,000 new Seventh-day Adventist congregations worldwide, making a significant impact in spreading the message of hope and salvation. More than 2,500 Global Mission pioneers are currently active across the globe, sharing the good news through a holistic approach to ministry. This approach includes caring for the sick, teaching agricultural skills, running literacy programs, holding evangelistic meetings, and conducting Bible studies. Their work exemplifies the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to reach every nation, tribe, language, and people. In the Southern Asia-Pacific region, Global Mission pioneers face significant challenges as all eleven countries in this territory fall within the 10/40 window — a vast and challenging area where many people have yet to hear the gospel. This region is home to more than 686 million people, making the task of reaching them both daunting and critical. Associate secretary and Adventist Mission director in SSD, Pastor Joni de Oliveira, welcomed all delegates from the Southeast Asian region and expressed his excitement to witness and hear their stories of mission in their respective field. “We aim to empower each delegate with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed in their mission work. That’s why we’ve brought together our leaders and frontline missionaries, who have remarkable experiences to share. We want to equip them with practical tools, proven examples, and inspiration drawn from real-life testimonies of those who have lived — and are living — successful mission journeys. Through these stories, we hope to ignite their passion and guide them toward even greater success in their own ministries,” De Oliveira shared. The convention served as a time of spiritual renewal and strategic planning for the pioneers, who engaged with Adventist Mission leaders and representatives from the Adventist world church at the General Conference. Several speakers addressed the delegates, offering encouragement and valuable guidance as they continued their mission. Pastor Gary Krause, General Conference associate secretary and Adventist Mission director, spoke about the significant challenges and opportunities in spreading the Adventist message in today’s world. He pointed out that for every million people, there are only 6,530 Seventh-day Adventists, and in 49 cities with populations over a million, there are fewer than 10 Adventists. Even more strikingly, 43 of these cities have no Adventist presence at all. He highlighted the importance of cities as centers of influence in politics, entertainment, and the economy, emphasizing the need for a strong Adventist presence in these areas. “We're here because we are called on a special mission to share the love of Jesus. And church planting, starting new groups of believers, is the way that we move the mission of God forward,” Krause said. “And we must be constantly looking at those areas of the world, those people groups who have not yet heard the Adventist message. … That's the heart of what Adventist mission is all about, reaching them with a message of hope,” he added. Krause also introduced the idea of a "15-minute city," where within 15 minutes by bicycle or bus, residents can access essential services like grocery stores, education, and medical care. He challenged attendees to imagine the impact if within 15 minutes, everyone in such a city had access to an Adventist group that could be a beacon of light and influence. Although the challenges are great, Pastor Gary reminded attendees that the mission is not just theirs; it is God’s mission, as referenced in Matthew 24:14. On the other hand, Pastor Khamsay Phetchareun, director of the Center for Adventist-Buddhist Relations at the General Conference, emphasized the importance of following Christ's example by mingling with others to make friends for Jesus. He reminded delegates that many people feel lonely and long for connection. By using every opportunity to build friendships — whether through sharing a meal, attending funerals, or spending time with children — delegates can show the community that they care. Pastor Khamsay encouraged delegates to focus on being friends with everyone, no matter where they are or who they meet. He highlighted the need to connect with both adults and children, understanding that genuine care and friendship can make a lasting impact. Mingling with others is not just a task but a mission to bring them closer to Jesus. Leaders from the General Conference explained what the Global Mission Centers are in the Adventist Church. These centers are special places designed to support the church's mission, especially in reaching people who have not yet heard the Adventist message. Pastor Kleyton Feitosa, director of the General Conference’s Global Mission Centers , emphasized how important it is for Global Mission pioneers to connect with these centers. By doing so, they can receive mentorship and materials that help them in their work. These resources are key for pioneers to be more effective in sharing the Adventist faith and expanding the church’s mission around the world. This gathering in Bali stands as an inspiration for the global Adventist community. It calls on every member to support the mission by praying, giving, and even considering becoming a pioneer themselves. The stories of these dedicated men and women remind the Adventist Church community that the mission field is vast, and the need for workers is great. As the Southern Asia-Pacific region continues to face unique challenges in mission work, the Global Mission pioneers are a testament to what can be achieved when laypeople answer God’s call to go wherever He leads. The success of this first regional convention in Bali sets the stage for future gatherings, encouraging even more people to join the global mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This news story first appeared on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website and is republished here with permission. More Stories Topics

First-ever convention draws 130 pioneers from across SSD

Global Mission Pioneers Gather in Bali

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