“Thus far the Lord has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12) was the theme echoing throughout the Wetherill Park Seventh-day Adventist Church, NSW, as more 500 members, leaders and guests gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia from May 23 to 25.
The weekend was filled with thanksgiving and reflection, celebrating five decades of faithful ministry, cultural richness and community impact by Spanish-speaking Adventist congregations across the country. The program featured uplifting worship services, dynamic musical presentations, heartfelt testimonies and a powerful sense of intergenerational unity.
During the celebration a moving prayer of gratitude was offered by Greater Sydney Conference president Pastor Alban Matohiti, who thanked God for His guidance over the past 50 years and prayed for continued faith and mission in the years to come.
Among the musical highlights was a special performance by members of the original “Spanish Singers”, whose ministry during the church’s early years played a key role in shaping the worship culture and identity of the church.
The celebration also honoured individuals who helped establish a Spanish-speaking Adventist church in Australia, such as Pastor Ricardo Olivares, the first ordained Spanish-speaking pastor in the Australian Seventh-day Adventist Church. His pioneering leadership and dedication to pastoral ministry were warmly remembered.
“This 50-year celebration is a testimony of God’s providence and the enduring faith of our Spanish-speaking members,” said Pastor Jonathan Valls, event MC. “As we remember the past, we hold onto the words of Scripture: ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us.’ And we step forward with confidence, knowing that He will continue to lead.”
The weekend concluded with a joyful thanksgiving concert and fellowship luncheon, where stories were shared and new commitments were made to continue the mission of the church into the future.
About the Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia
Founded in 1975 by the Sydney Spanish-speaking Adventist families seeking to worship in their own language, the Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia has grown into a vibrant national network of congregations who remain committed to gospel mission, community service and nurturing faith across generations and cultures.
