It was in a festive and solemn atmosphere that the Federation of French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino (FSRT), together with the Federation of German-speaking Switzerland, celebrated the Sabbath of July 6, 2024, in Saignelégier, with their spiritual assembly. The event marked a historic milestone: the 150th anniversary of the sending of the first official Adventist missionary to European soil.
For the occasion, the Swiss Union had the honor of welcoming several Adventist personalities including Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Churches, accompanied by his wife. Their presence testified to the importance given to this anniversary and to the crucial role of Europe in the history of the Adventist mission. Around 1000 people were in attendance and 2500 in streaming connection.
John Andrews
John Nevins Andrews (1829-1883) was the first official Adventist missionary sent to Europe. He arrived in Switzerland in 1874, marking the beginning of the organized Adventist mission on the European continent. A theologian and scholar, Andrews was proficient in several ancient and modern languages. He contributed significantly to the development of Adventist doctrine and the expansion of the church in Europe. His translation and publication work was crucial to the spread of the Adventist message. Andrews is considered one of the most influential founders of the Adventist movement, having played a key role in establishing the church outside of North America.
The highlight of the day was the official welcome of a new missionary who will exercise his ministry in the city of Geneva. This new ministry, supported by the General Conference, represents a strong symbol of the continuity of the Adventist mission and its commitment to proclaiming the return of Jesus. The choice of Geneva, a cosmopolitan city and headquarters of numerous international organizations, underlines the universal dimension of the Adventist message.
The afternoon was rich in discoveries and sharing. Captivating historical presentations traced the saga of Adventist mission in Europe, while interactive workshops provided deeper reflection on the challenges of mission today. A museum, set up for the occasion, exhibited precious objects including the desk on which Ellen White wrote her flagship work, “The Desire of Ages”, during her stay in Europe.
The celebration in Saignelégier was much more than a commemoration of the past. It was an opportunity to strongly reaffirm the relevance of the Adventist message and to turn, with enthusiasm, towards the future of the mission in Europe and in the world.
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Photos: Ruben Ferreira