Dear Reform Movement Church Family,
May the peace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, be with each one of you.
As we approach the end of 2024, we at the General Conference reflect on the journey we have shared over the past five years. As this term comes to a close, and we prepare for the upcoming delegation session and spiritual conference, we are reminded of God’s unwavering care and guidance for His people.
Reflecting on 2019-2024: A Journey of Faith
Much has changed since the last session in 2019. Perhaps the most notable event was the global pandemic, which affected nearly every aspect of our lives. Yet, even in the face of challenges, God’s work continued to advance.
Mission Expansion: Reaching Fifteen New Countries
At the start of this term, we set a goal to expand the work to at least five new countries by the end of 2024. Through the generosity, faith, and dedication of our brethren, God enabled us to exceed that goal. By His grace, the Reform Movement’s presence was established in fifteen new countries:
- Ivory Coast
- Bangladesh
- Central African Republic
- Lesotho
- Grand Cayman Island
- Laos
- Gabon
- Swaziland
- Mauritius
- Gambia
- Benin
- Sudan
- Guinea Bissau
- Guinea Conakry
- Guinea Equatorial
Each of these mission expansions is a testimony to God’s faithfulness and the commitment of His people.
God’s Protection in Times of Crisis
During these five years, new conflicts have erupted in various regions. Our global family has been directly impacted by crises in places such as Haiti, North Kivu, Russia, Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Israel. In particular, our brothers and sisters in Ukraine have faced immense challenges but have experienced God’s protection.
Despite the turmoil, the military has permitted our Ukrainian brethren to continue serving their country as civilians. The Ukrainian Union’s Welfare Department has been actively supporting those affected by the conflict, rebuilding homes, converting churches into shelters, and distributing food and supplies to displaced families. Through it all, we praise the Lord for His steadfast care.
Shining Light in a Dark World
As we witness the growing darkness in our world, it is easy to feel discouraged. But this darkness does not surprise us. Over a century ago, Ellen G. White wrote:
“I was in vision taken to heaven, and the angel said to me, ‘Look!’ I looked to the world as it was in dense darkness. The agony that came over me was indescribable as I saw this darkness. Again the word came, ‘Look ye.’” (Gospel Workers, p. 378)
Perhaps you, too, have felt this agony as you face the world’s darkness. Yet, in this same vision, Ellen White saw hope:
“…I began to see jets of light like stars dotted all through this darkness… These are they that believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and are obeying the words of Christ.” (Gospel Workers, p. 378)
Preparing for the Centennial: A Call to Arise and Shine
In 2025, by God’s grace, we will celebrate 100 years of Reform Movement history. As we look forward to this milestone and the upcoming General Conference, let us remember the purpose of our movement.
We are called to uplift the suffering, to spread the hope of a better world, and to live in a way that points others to Jesus. Now, more than ever, it is time for us to truly be a Reform Movement.
Let us arise and shine, reflecting God’s light in a dark world and holding fast to our first love.
Yours in the Blessed Hope,
Brother Eli Tenorio
General Conference President
