Fortaleza, Brazil—With immense gratitude to God, we record here a summary of the unforgettable centennial celebration of the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement, held from July 10-13 in the city of Fortaleza. We had the privilege of experiencing a remarkable and deeply spiritual weekend.
Our hearts were filled with joy as we welcomed Pastor Davi Paes Silva, former president of the General Conference. He arrived on Thursday afternoon (July 10th) and that evening shared words of reflection with us, introducing the theme that would guide the entire conference: The Gospel of Grace.
The meetings were held in Parquelândia, with brothers and sisters coming from various parts of the state of Ceará, as well as from other states such as Rio de Janeiro, Pará, Piauí, and even from other countries, such as France and Senegal. It was moving to see brothers and sisters united, from near and far, with a single purpose: to praise God and celebrate our history.
The program officially began at 7:30 pm on Friday with the special opening of the conference, under the theme “The Gospel of Grace.” After sunset, we gathered for praise and a message, beginning the Sabbath with enthusiasm and spirituality.
Early on Sabbath morning, at 8:45 a.m., we began with a time of praise, followed by Sabbath School and Divine Service, with the theme “Jesus Receives Sinners.” Pastor Davi’s messages, the praises of the Fortaleza youth choir, quartets, and local groups deeply touched our hearts.
At noon, we had a special lunch at Júlio de Ponte School, a location near the church, where everyone was comfortably accommodated and enjoyed fellowship.
In the afternoon, we resumed at 3 p.m. with the second part of the conference: “Galatians, the Letter of Freedom.” We experienced moments filled with praise, activities, experiences, and reflections that left an impression on everyone present.
Early in the morning, at 9:30 a.m., even though it was Sunday, the church was packed. We had a special Bible study with Pastor Davi, with over 40 people in attendance. This made the moment even more memorable—seeing the church full on a Sunday morning was a testament to the interest and spiritual thirst of our people. The morning program lasted until approximately 1:00 PM, concluding with much learning and active participation from the church.
In the evening, at 6:00 PM, we began the final message of the conference. Although it was initially planned to be the second part of the theme “Galatians, the Letter of Freedom,” Pastor Davi felt called to change the topic at that moment, led by the Spirit of God. Thus, he presented us with a profound and spiritually exhorting message on “The Vine and the Branches,” based on John 15. It was a clear and direct call to the church: the importance of being connected to the Vine (Christ) and bearing fruit—good and lasting fruit. A living and current message about commitment, spiritual productivity, and a true connection with Jesus.
In addition to the spiritual program, we encourage all members to record the special moments of the conference, sharing them on social media with the hashtag #100YearsIASDMR and tagging the profiles @_iasdmr_centralfortaleza and @asce.cearense
This weekend was spent in gratitude for God’s grace and a reminder of our identity as a church, and the living hope in Christ’s soon return. May the Lord help us remain steadfast, reforming not only institutions, but our very hearts.
