With a record-breaking attendance of 935 participants, the 27th Annual Theological Forum at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) drew together scholars, pastors, and church leaders from across the globe and primarily from the Philippines. Notably, the largest contingents hailed from Central Luzon Conference, Cavite Mission, and Mountain View College.
Themed “Adventist Identity: Fulfilling God’s Mission,” this year’s forum facilitated rich discussions on how identity informs mission in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Dr. Leonardo Nunes, the forum committee chair explained that this year is a special year for Seventh-day Adventists. He said, “We are celebrating the 180th Anniversary of the Great Disappointment, along with the 150th Anniversary of Adventist Mission, when John N. Andrews was appointed as our first official Adventist missionary.” These two events have many things in common.
The plenary sessions featured distinguished speakers who explored the various dimensions of Adventist identity. Dr. David Trim, Director of Archives, Statistics, and Research at the General Conference, presented on “Narrative, Doctrine, and Historical Practice: Reflections on Adventist Identity in History and Theology.” His address underscored the significance of historical praxis alongside theological studies, arguing that “identity must be anchored in lived experience, not just doctrinal understanding.”
Dr. Frank Hasel, Associate Director of the Biblical Research Institute, discussed “Foundational Aspects of Adventist Identity,” advocating a return to foundational principles that shape beliefs and mission.
Dr. Jiri Moskala, Dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University, addressed “The Seventh-day Adventist Identity—Who Are We as the Community of Faith?” He pointed out that the Seventh-day Adventist identity is rooted in understanding who we are as a faith community, defined by our distinguishing characteristics and qualities. Essential to this identity is self-awareness and self-perception, which are shaped “by looking to Jesus as our model and drawing lessons from the identities of the Old and New Testament Churches.”
Dr. Ricardo González, Dean of AIIAS Seminary, reaffirmed the AIIAS’ mission in his welcome message, stating, “As we gather to reflect on our unique identity, we are reminded of the urgent task to remain faithful to our calling as the remnant church.” Highlighting AIIAS’s commitment to nurturing leaders, Dr. González added, “We are here to prepare leaders who will advance the Adventist mission with clarity and conviction.” His message reinforced AIIAS’s pivotal role in equipping leaders to serve the Adventist church and support its mission worldwide.
On this note, Dr. Bienvenido Mergal, Director of the Education Department of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) shared his appreciation for AIIAS. “We express gratitude to the AIIAS Seminary for hosting this important program which greatly benefits our pastors and leaders in the SSD territory.” The SSD helped sponsor 60% of the attendees to the forum.
As this year’s forum came to a close, Dr. Nunes announced that the theme for next year’s event will be “Financial Stewardship,” a topic that resonates with the Adventist Church’s focus on responsible management of resources.
More than 70 individuals presented on various topics in the plenary and breakout sessions. This count includes faculty, students, and guest speakers who contributed to the forum’s extensive agenda.
With this year’s forum held from Nov 14 to 16, 2024, concluding on a high note, AIIAS continues to excel in theological education and prepare mission-driven leaders within the Adventist Church.
Photos credit: AIIAS Public Relations office
