Middle East University (MEU) was honored to host the John N. Andrews Mission Conference on May 19–20, 2025, under the theme “A Legacy of Global Mission.” The event brought together scholars, mission practitioners, students, and church leaders from across the Middle East and North Africa Union Mission (MENAUM) and beyond to reflect on the past, assess the present, and envision the future of Adventist mission in today’s complex world.
General Impressions
The conference was both an academic forum and a spiritual experience. Attendees expressed gratitude for the thoughtful integration of theology, missiology, testimony, and contextually grounded discussion. From the opening remarks to the final benediction, the atmosphere was one of reverence, inspiration, and renewed dedication to the gospel mandate.
The lineup of presenters included notable leaders such as Dr. Merlin Burt, Dr. Rick McEdward, Dr. Petras Bahadur, Pastor Jonathan Contero, and many others whose scholarship and passion greatly enriched the event. Their presentations—ranging from historical insights to practical strategies in tentmaking, digital mission, and interfaith engagement—resonated deeply with attendees.
The conference was officially opened by Dr. Diói Cruz, Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy and Theology, who set the tone by reminding participants of John N. Andrews’ pioneering spirit and sacrificial commitment. Welcoming messages from Dr. Carlos Biaggi (President of MEU) and Dr. Amy McHenry (Vice President for Academic Administration)further emphasized MEU’s commitment to equipping future leaders for a transformative mission.
Outcomes and Highlights
1. Interdisciplinary Exploration of Mission
The two-day conference featured a dynamic blend of plenary sessions, breakout presentations, and panel discussions. Presentations explored mission from multiple dimensions:
- Historical: Tracing the footsteps of early Adventist missionaries in Europe and beyond.
- Contextual: Addressing the financial crisis in Lebanon, religious diversity, and the role of Adventist education in rebuilding dignity.
- Intercultural: Developing strategies for mission in Middle Eastern and North African countries and among unreached people groups.
- Innovative: Exploring digital platforms, dreams and visions, and the use of media as tools for witness.
The event provided a space for students and local leaders to present research, share testimonies, and engage in critical conversations about the evolving nature of mission in the 10/40 Window.
2. A Strong Declaration of Missional Commitment
At the conclusion of the conference, participants endorsed the JNA Mission Conference Declaration, which affirms ten key convictions. These include the holistic nature of mission, the necessity of contextualization, the value of tentmaking, and the urgency of digital evangelism. The declaration also highlights the need for sustainable missionary care and places prayer at the center of all missional efforts.
This document reflects a unified resolve: that mission is not merely an institutional task, but a shared lifestyle of compassion, resilience, and Spirit-led action.
3. Student and Faculty Engagement
One of the distinguishing features of this event was the active involvement of MEU students and faculty members, both as organizers and contributors. MEU’s faculty played key roles in moderating sessions, leading discussions, and presenting research. The collaborative effort of MEU’s departments—including theology, business, and communication—demonstrated a whole-campus approach to mission.
Lessons Learned
1. Mission Thrives in Crisis
Multiple sessions—such as those focused on Lebanon’s economic collapse and the growth of house churches in restricted regions—highlighted that mission does not pause during hardship. In fact, crisis often creates opportunities for deeper witness, innovation, and solidarity. Speakers emphasized that Adventists must not retreat in times of instability, but rather step forward with empathy and creative strategies.
2. Discipleship Must Precede Conversion
Several presentations challenged traditional paradigms by affirming that discipleship begins before a person joins the faith community. Long-term relationships, hospitality, and patient accompaniment are more effective than one-time encounters. This insight is especially crucial in non-Christian majority societies, where trust and relational depth are essential to mission.
3. Missionaries Need Mission Too
The call to care for missionaries was strongly voiced. Presentations by Dr. Roseane Alonso and Iago Alonso shed light on the emotional and spiritual toll of cross-cultural service. The conference reinforced the belief that missionary effectiveness depends on intentional structures of support, rest, and spiritual renewal.
4. The Past Informs the Future
The legacy of John Nevins Andrews—Adventism’s first official missionary—served not only as a historical backdrop but as a prophetic voice. Presenters demonstrated how Andrews’ pioneering use of media, academic engagement, and intercultural adaptation can still inform mission today. His example challenges modern Adventists to embrace a mission that is both theologically rooted and culturally responsive.
5. Contextualization Is Not Compromise
Dr. Petras Bahadur and Pastor Jonathan Contero offered compelling insights into how Adventist beliefs can be communicated meaningfully within non-Christian and secular contexts. Their work emphasized that faithful mission does not require abandoning doctrine, but rather demands deep understanding of local worldviews and creative expression of biblical truths.
Final Reflections
In his closing remarks, Dr. Diói Cruz captured the spirit of the event: “Let us leave this place not as mere attendees of a conference, but as ambassadors of hope, inspired by the legacy of John Nevins Andrews and empowered by the Spirit to reach the world with truth and compassion”.
The John N. Andrews Mission Conference was not just an event—it was a spiritual recommissioning. MEU is grateful for the many hands and hearts who made this gathering possible, and we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of mission-driven leaders.
As the conference committee stated, “We leave this place not with mere ideas, but with a renewed calling to live the mission”.
Middle East University
Empowering Agents of Hope and Transformation
