The Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) hosted its Student Association (SA) Week of Prayer from October 21 to 26, 2024, under the theme “The History of Tomorrow.” The guest speaker, Pr. Justin Torossian, a great-great-great-grandson of Ellen G. White, delivered nine inspiring sessions that left the community spiritually renewed. His messages emphasized God’s guidance throughout history and His promises for the future, encouraging participants to place their trust in Him.
The morning sessions took place in the Amphitheater, while the evening gatherings were held in the AIIAS Auditorium. The program began on Monday evening and concluded on Sabbath with a special session for Pathfinders, where Pr. Torossian taught the Adventist Heritage Honor.
Each message was heartfelt and relevant, drawing participants closer to God.
A simultaneous Children’s Week of Prayer ran each evening from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, with the theme “Remember the Way.” This program ensured the younger members of the community were also spiritually engaged and nurtured during the week.
Several unique elements added a special touch to the Week of Prayer. Prayer Boxes placed around campus collected requests, which were prayed over throughout the week. The day began with dawn prayer sessions at 5:30 AM in the prayer garden, offering a peaceful time of reflection and worship. Prayer bands followed every evening meeting, bringing participants together in small groups to pray and share. Morning sessions featured quiz activities with exciting giveaways, and the first 50 attendees at each evening session received commemorative fridge magnets.
Midweek, Typhoon Kristine posed a challenge, but through God’s grace, the program seamlessly transitioned to online broadcasting, ensuring everyone could continue participating. The Sabbath school and Divine service were taken care of by the SA officers and the SA religious team. Sabbath lunch was marked by an international potluck in the gymnasium, where the AIIAS community shared food and fellowship. This joyful gathering brought a fitting close to the week’s activities before the final Pathfinder session.
On Friday, Pr. Torossian also visited AIIAS’ sister institutions, including SSD, the 1000 Missionary Movement, and the Philippines Publishing House. He departed for Australia on Sunday evening, leaving behind a strengthened and inspired community.
The 2024 SA Week of Prayer was a time of spiritual revival, unity, and gratitude. It reflected God’s blessings and the faith of the AIIAS community, making it a memorable and meaningful experience for all who participated.
The success of the SA Week of Prayer was made possible by the dedication of many individuals. The SA Religious Team, led by Chair Elfino Prayer Elmo and supported by Pr. Viliame, Pr. AJ Bernal, Pr. Jason Gulea, Pr. Haldeman, Jiawen Niu, and Lun, worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly. The SA officers, along with administrators and community members, provided invaluable support.
