In a remarkable display of faith and community, the Inter-American Division (IAD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has announced that over 16,000 individuals have joined the denomination through a series of baptismal ceremonies held across Latin America. This inspiring event has been highlighted in the latest edition of the Adventist Review, the church’s official journal.
The baptisms took place in various locations, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America, showcasing the widespread enthusiasm for the faith. IAD President Elie Henry addressed an audience of approximately 10,000 church leaders and members during a live event in Huimanguillo, Tabasco, Mexico, where he celebrated the significant growth of the church. "This is a great feast today, where we can rejoice and celebrate together so many new people who have come to be part of the kingdom," Henry remarked. He emphasized that this gathering was a mere glimpse of the eternal reunion believers will have with Jesus.
The IAD attributed this surge in baptisms to the dedicated evangelistic efforts of pastors, elders, and lay members, along with the influence of small group ministries. Notably, this event marked the second time that local church elders were authorized to officiate baptisms within the region, allowing them to share in the joy of welcoming new members into the faith. Josney RodrÃguez, the IAD ministerial secretary and the event’s main organizer, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This is a momentous occasion where church elders, who have worked closely in preparing candidates for baptism, can share the joy of baptizing."
This surge in baptisms comes on the heels of challenging years for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which previously reported one of its lowest growth rates in recent history. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on church attendance and donations, leading to financial concerns. In 2021, the denomination revealed that it had experienced a decline in new members for the first time in over a decade, falling below 1 million new members for the year.
During the 2020 Annual Council, church leaders discussed the financial challenges posed by the pandemic, with treasurer Juan Prestol-Puesán highlighting a potential $26 million decline in tithes and mission offerings. Reports indicated that some areas faced a decrease in tithe income of up to 25%. Despite these difficulties, the church has remained resilient, with a focus on community outreach and evangelism.
David Trim, the director of archives, statistics, and research for the Seventh-day Adventist General Conference, has noted that while the church has faced significant challenges, it continues to grow in various regions. He reported that from 1965 to 2023, the denomination has experienced a net member loss rate of over 42%, equating to more than 18 million individuals. However, the recent baptismal events indicate a revitalization of faith and commitment among believers in Latin America.
As the Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrates this significant milestone, it serves as a reminder of the power of community, faith, and the enduring message of hope that resonates within the church. For those interested in learning more about the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its global mission, visit the official Seventh-day Adventist Church website.
This recent wave of baptisms not only reflects the church’s growth but also highlights the importance of local leadership and community involvement in spreading the gospel. The future looks bright for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Latin America, as it continues to inspire and welcome new believers into its fold.