New Administration Inaugurated to Lead Adventist Church in Jamaica for 2026–2030

MANDEVILLE, Jamaica — The Jamaica Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists officially inaugurated its newly elected administration, departmental directors, and executive committee members on Sabbath, May 9, 2026, during a Service of Inauguration marking the beginning of the Church’s 2026–2030 quinquennium.

 

 

The inauguration formally consecrated leaders elected during the Jamaica Union Conference’s third Quinquennal Session to guide the Union through the 2026–2030 term, while emphasizing spirit-led leadership, biblical faithfulness, and national service.

 

 

Held under the theme, “Grounded in the Bible, Focused on Mission,” the service brought together church leaders, conference representatives, government officials, pastors, members, and online viewers from across Jamaica and the diaspora for an afternoon of worship, dedication, and recommitment to mission.

 

In his inaugural address, Jamaica Union Conference President Pastor Glen O. Samuels called on the Church to remain firmly committed to Scripture and mission amid increasing social and cultural challenges.

 

 

“We are living in a time when the Church must remain firmly grounded in the Word of God,” Samuels said. “Our commitment must not merely be to administration, but to mission. We have been called to lead with humility, integrity, and faithfulness as we seek to advance the gospel throughout Jamaica and beyond.”

 

Samuels also stressed that the effectiveness of the new administration would ultimately be measured by spiritual impact rather than institutional achievement. “The success of this quinquennium will not be measured only by reports or statistics,” he added. “It will be measured by transformed lives, faithful discipleship, and a Church that remains spiritually alive and mission-focused.”

 

 

Pastor Abner De los Santos, president of the Inter-American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, delivered the sermon in which he reminded the congregation that leadership within the Church is an act of stewardship under God.

 

“The Church belongs to God,” De los Santos said. “Those who lead are entrusted not with ownership, but with stewardship. God is calling this administration to lead courageously, prayerfully, and always under the authority of His Word.”

 

Government leaders from both sides of the political aisle also extended congratulations and affirmed the Church’s longstanding contribution to national development.

 

 

In bringing greetings, Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its continued service in education, health care, community outreach, and spiritual ministry.

 

“The Seventh-day Adventist Church has distinguished itself as a moral and spiritual force in Jamaica, helping to shape values, strengthen families, and foster national development through decades of faithful service,” Allen said.

 

 

Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Horace Chang, representing Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, commended the Church’s contribution to Jamaica’s national development and offered encouragement to the new administration.

 

“The Seventh-day Adventist Church has built a legacy of service in Jamaica,” Chang said. “Through education, youth engagement, and community outreach, the Church continues to make a meaningful impact across Jamaica.”

 

 

Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. the Honourable Christopher Tufton praised the Church’s partnership in promoting healthier communities and positive social values across the island.

 

“The Adventist Church has long been a critical partner in national development,” Tufton said. “Its commitment to healthy living, education, discipline, and community upliftment continues to positively impact countless Jamaicans.”

 

 

Opposition Leader Mark Golding acknowledged the important role of faith-based organizations in strengthening society and promoting moral leadership.

 

“At a time when societies everywhere are facing moral and social challenges, institutions like the Seventh-day Adventist Church remain important voices of hope, values, and community,” Golding said.

 

The broad bipartisan representation at the service underscored the Church’s longstanding influence within Jamaica’s social and national landscape.

 

Throughout the service, speakers repeatedly emphasized unity, evangelism, discipleship, and the importance of remaining biblically anchored amid rapid cultural and societal change.

 

Musical selections, congregational worship, and moments of prayer reinforced the spiritual tone of the occasion throughout the afternoon.

 

Special prayers of dedication were offered for the newly inaugurated leaders as members pledged support for the Church’s mission during the new quinquennium.

 

The new administration is expected to place continued emphasis on evangelism, youth engagement, education, digital ministry, stewardship, and community outreach during the new term.

 

The Jamaica Union Conference serves as the headquarters for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Jamaica and oversees conferences, institutions, churches, and schools across the island with a combined membership of more than 340,000.