18 July 2025 | St Louis, USA [Heli Otamo-Csizmadia]
The Trans-European Division (TED) delegation is returning home from the General Conference Session with renewed energy, deeper understanding, and a shared sense of mission. From the opening moments, marked by warm greetings and quiet anticipation, the week unfolded into a dynamic experience of discussion, worship, and decision-making.
Delegates quickly found their footing. The registration area, a hub of advice and encouragement, helped set the tone for the days ahead. As discussions progressed, delegates began to voice their views with confidence, contributing thoughtful suggestions and responses to proposed issues at hand for the world church.
First-time delegate Alison Awuku shared her reflections on the process. “I’ve gained real respect for how decisions are made collectively in the Church,” she said. “It may seem complex at first, but it reflects a serious commitment to unity and accountability.” She also noted that many members are unaware of how church structures operate. “It shouldn’t just be the General Conference and Divisions who understand this. Members should take the initiative and responsibility to learn and engage with how the church works,” she added.
That spirit of engagement was echoed throughout the delegation. Mandi Vehkavuori spoke warmly of the breadth of mission work across the global Church. “It’s incredible to see how varied our mission is, yet how united we are in our purpose,” she said.
One of the most demanding responsibilities fell to the nominating committee, tasked with appointing individuals from around the world to key leadership roles. TED delegates involved in the process carried out their roles with grace and determination. Once their work concluded, they joined the wider delegation in celebrating a shared vision for the future.
The delegates in the bigger hall, under the public eye, through the media of the church, put their attention to the proposed changes to the Church Manual and constitution. Delegates engaged in a robust debate and voted on several amendments. In cases of uncertainty, items were referred back to dedicated committees, many of which showed genuine openness to feedback. The responsiveness of these committees was widely praised, and their willingness to adapt texts in light of concerns was seen as a mark of progress.
While delegates were hard at work, family members also played a vital role behind the scenes, and their reserved seats in the hall were often empty. Many of them volunteered in support roles – from assisting in the exhibition hall to helping with logistics. Pastor Bernie Holford said he found greater fulfilment working in the background than sitting in the main hall. “It’s the little things that help everything run smoothly,” he remarked. Indeed, without the commitment of volunteer family members, from children to adults, the event could not have functioned as effectively as it did.
Worship services received mixed responses. While appreciated overall, some delegates expressed a desire for greater cultural variety in both music and speakers, reflecting the diversity of the global Church. Sabbath attendees brought a vibrant display of cultural beauty, marked by enthusiastic conversations and numerous photos capturing the traditional attire worn by many.
The meetings concluded on a high note, with a celebration of mission and a sermon focused on vision. The Parade of Nations provided a fitting and memorable finale, which the writer found particularly moving. Usually, the streamed videos do not fully capture the atmosphere and emotion experienced in person. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After the closing ceremony on sabbath evening, delegates departed with hearts full of hope – and minds filled with plans for the future.
Featured Image: Seth Shaffer / AME (CC BY 4.0)
Photos: [Elsie Tejeransen and Jimmy Botha]/AME (CC BY 4.0)
