12 June 2026 | Røyse, Norway [May Anette Tallini with tedNEWS]
Paul Douglas, treasurer of the Seventh-day Adventist Church world headquarters, challenged Seventh-day Adventists in Norway to embrace a Jesus-centred approach to mission during the East Norway Conference (ENC) annual meeting, held at Tyrifjord Junior School from 5 to 7 June 2026.
Several hundred people attended the event, which combined worship, fellowship and spiritual reflection. Throughout the weekend, Douglas emphasised a simple but recurring message: “We are saved by Jesus. We are sent by Jesus. We are supported by Jesus.”
On Friday evening, Douglas spoke from Ephesians 2:1-10, focusing on salvation through God’s grace. Highlighting the phrase “But God”, he explained how God transforms lives despite human weakness, sin and difficult circumstances. “Nothing is impossible for God,” Douglas said, emphasising that God’s intervention changes every situation.
On Sabbath morning, Douglas shared his personal testimony during a young adults’ Sabbath School service, describing his journey of faith and commitment to Jesus Christ.
During the main worship service, Douglas acknowledged the presence of former Seventh-day Adventist world church president Jan Paulsen and expressed appreciation for his friendship and years of leadership. He also affirmed the commitment of the newly elected world church leadership team, including Erton Köhler, president, and Richard E. McEdward, executive secretary, to advancing the Church’s mission worldwide.
Building on the weekend’s theme, Douglas encouraged worshippers to respond to God’s call by praying, “Jesus, here I am, send me.” The service also featured music from orchestras, choirs, groups and soloists.
In the afternoon programme, Douglas explored the final element of his theme, focusing on Christ’s promise to remain with His followers. Reflecting on the Great Commission in Matthew 28:20, he reminded attendees of Jesus’ assurance: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
That focus on mission continued as local churches across the ENC shared reports from their communities. Young adults from Connect, a group connected with the Kongsberg, Skotselv and Mjøndalen areas, entered the auditorium wearing matching hoodies, bringing visible energy to the programme. Per Erik Dekkerhus and several Connect members spoke about the group’s work and its commitment to engaging young adults in local mission.
Additional reports highlighted outreach initiatives in several communities, including a Bible lecture series in Larvik, a community-focused mission endeavour in Hønefoss and suicide prevention work in Fredrikstad. Music from choirs, groups and soloists contributed to the worshipful atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Douglas said Christ’s presence provides strength and encouragement for believers as they participate in mission. “Jesus has saved us, sent us and continues to support us,” he said.
The visit marked Douglas’s first trip to Norway. During the weekend, he expressed his appreciation for the country and its people, telling attendees that he hoped to return in the future.
[Photo: Elsie Tjeransen / Adventist Media Exchange (CC BY 4.0)]
The original version of this article was posted in Norwegian on the Norwegian Union Conference website.
