The Welsh Mission’s 2025 Triennial Session, taking place on Sunday, 27 September in Newport, Wales, commenced with prayer, reflection, and heartfelt gratitude for God’s guidance. Delegates, officers, and pastors from all over Wales and the British Union Conference (BUC) assembled to welcome attendees, approve procedural guidelines, and appoint essential officers. Pastor Douglas McCormac was officially confirmed as parliamentarian, while Desiré Lewis, Jacquelyn Johnson, and Pauline Allcock were appointed as recording secretaries.
Honouring a Legacy of Service
BUC President, Pastor Eglan Brooks, honoured the Welsh Mission’s extraordinary history of service. From distributing literature during the Welsh Revival to providing meals during the 1926 miners’ strike and supporting families after the 1966 Aberfan disaster, its narrative is one of resilience and sacrifice. Members have also led health initiatives, youth camps, and community outreach through media and service.
Pastor Brooks compared the Mission’s contributions to diamonds – precious and timeless. Citing Matthew 5:14-16, he reminded the delegates that the Welsh Mission has long been a “light to the world,” urging them to continue to shine. He recognised the pressures faced by society today: wars, economic hardship, racial discord, and the exploitation of youth, noting that these issues reflect the harsh conditions under which diamonds are created. “Diamonds do not create their own light,” he stated. “They reflect it. Our calling is to reflect the light of Jesus; consistently, courageously, and together, until we unite as a crown in God’s hand.”
Membership: Growth and Care
Welsh Mission Executive Secretary, Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook, presented the Secretary’s report on membership, which began with a moment of silence to remember the 30 members who passed away during the triennium. Despite these losses, he shared that the Mission’s membership increased from 692 to 809 by the end of 2024, with 149 transfers and 68 baptisms.
The report emphasised the importance of welcoming and nurturing new members, strengthening local leadership, and enhancing record accuracy. Questions from the floor requested more detailed data on demographics and obituaries. McKenzie-Cook also expressed gratitude to the following individuals for their dedication during the triennium: Jacques, Desiré, Jacquei, Aftab, Graham, and Pauline.
Delegates voted on the Nominating Committee’s report for new departmental leaders, many of whom are lay members collaborating alongside employed staff (the full report is listed below). Delegates’ testimonies showcased the challenges of ministry in Wales, calling for resilience and a deeper cultural connection. Delegates also suggested increased use of the Welsh language, with the Welsh Mission Treasurer, Aftab Barki, assuring that funds were available to support language training for those willing to use it for mission.
Strategic Plan and Ministry Engagement
Welsh Mission President, Pastor Graham Allcock, reviewed the 2022 strategic plan, which centred on revival, empowerment, and disciple-making. He highlighted prayer initiatives, retreats, and pastors’ councils, including the European-wide gathering hosted by the Trans-European Division. Local churches enhanced community engagement through fellowship days, school presentations, and health workshops.
Communication improved through the Global Adventist Internet Network conference, while safeguarding remained a priority, with training provided at Newbold College. Membership audits and facility maintenance were also part of the Mission’s ongoing responsibilities.
Financial Strength and Innovation
The Treasurer’s report from Aftab Barki indicated that, despite global challenges – including the war in Ukraine, inflation, and cost-of-living pressures – the Welsh Mission reported significant growth. Tithe increased by 45.5% from 2022 to 2024, with 67% of members contributing online through transfers, PayPal, and the new 7me app.
Working capital was reported at 17.5 months and liquidity at 16.3 months, reflecting a strong financial position. The implementation of the Adventist Church Management System’s Treasury electronic module streamlined processes, while the 7me app equipped members with tools to monitor finances, return offerings, and access resources. Barki urged for greater promotion of Gift Aid and ongoing support for digital giving systems.
Looking Ahead: Reflecting God’s Image
In the closing address, Pastor Jacques Venter, BUC Executive Secretary, referred to Daniel 2 to remind delegates that human empires rise and fall, but God’s kingdom stands forever. Humanity, made in God’s image, is called not to dominate but to reflect God’s love, justice, and compassion.
He encouraged the Mission to embody Christ’s method in the next three years, focusing on ministry through fellowship events, discipleship pathways, well-being workshops, and mentoring new believers. “Christ is the true image of God,” Pastor Venter concluded. “As His disciples, our mission is to embody His compassion, teach His Word, and build communities of love, until Wales shines with the hope and joy of His eternal kingdom.”
The Nominating Committee report voted by delegates:
DEPARTMENTAL SPONSORS
Adventist Community Services
Leader: Thoko Kapida Port Talbot
Assistant: Lil Saunders Swansea
Children’s Ministries
Leader: Jane Wells Ystrad Mynach
Communication
Leader: Daniele Camara Swansea
Assistant: Crystal Knight Llandudno Junction
Health Ministries
Leader: Glenville Daniel Port Talbot
Assistant: David Hanson-Bartholomew Newport
Family Ministries
Leader: Eileen Mckenzie Newtown
Assistant: Kenroy Mckenzie Newtown
Adventurers and Pathfinders
Leader: Jonathan Nyengani Newport
Personal Ministries
Leader: Adriana Fodor Pastor
Safeguarding
Leader: Referred to the Executive Committee
Stewardship
Leader: Crystal Knight Llandudno Junction
Women’s Ministries
Leader: Referred to the Executive Committee
Youth Ministries
Leader: Elsie Semakula WM Church
Assistant: Martin Walters Newport
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
BUC President (ex officio)
BUC Executive Secretary (ex officio)
BUC Treasurer (ex officio)
WM President (ex officio)
WM Executive Secretary (ex officio)
WM Treasurer (ex officio)
Daniele Camara Swansea (Communication)
Adriana Fodor Pastor (Personal Ministries)
Jane Wells Ystrad Mynach (Children’s Ministries)
Eileen Mckenzie Newtown (Family Ministries)
Glenville Daniel Port Talbot (Health Ministries)
Crystal Knight Llandudno Junction (Stewardship)
Elsie Semakula WM Church (Youth Ministries)
Samuel Semakula Pastor
Thoko Kapida Port Talbot (Adventist Community Services)