The South Pacific Division (SPD) is set to host the largest global Adventist convention it has seen for more than 30 years, when the Digital Strategy for Mission Convention (DSM) is held in Auckland, New Zealand, this July.
The DSM is three events in one, with Hope Channel’s Network Leadership Conference (July 2–7) followed by GAiN (July 8–11), and the Adventist Technology Summit (July 12,13). Individuals can register for one, two or all the events.
“DSM brings together three global conferences in one integrated experience, equipping Adventist communicators, media professionals and technologists for mission in a rapidly evolving digital world,” said Ole Pedersen, Hope Channel NZ manager. “Each event builds on the next, creating a unified experience that strengthens collaboration, innovation and mission impact.”
Hundreds of international delegates are expected, along with guest speakers including General Conference (GC) president Pastor Erton Köhler.
“This is a great opportunity for leaders to visit our Division and get a better idea of who we are and what we are doing,” said Dr Brad Kemp, CEO of Adventist Media, an institution of the SPD that will be helping to support the event.
It also gives the church in the SPD an opportunity to learn and experience what other parts of the world are doing.
“This is a great opportunity to hear leaders from other parts of the world share their experiences when it comes to mission and sharing the gospel in an increasingly secularised world. It also brings the world closer to us,” said Mr Pedersen.
Church leaders in New Zealand are hopeful that the event will help to stimulate momentum in the lead up to a big 12 months for the church there.
“With South Pacific for Christ, New Zealand Pacific for Christ and OneVoice27 happening next year, this conference really gives us a strong foundation to prepare and get everyone involved,” said Mr Pedersen. “It is also the first time in nearly 30 years that an event of this scale run by the GC has been held in the SPD.”
GAiN (Global Adventist Internet Network) is facilitated by the communication department of the GC. This year’s theme is “Building Bridges”.
“GAiN is a space for communicators and media professionals to meet with others in their field and find ways to work in an integrated way for mission and to grow their skills in leadership, communication best practices and how to navigate our corporate and missional roles,” said Alyssa Truman, GC communication director.
“This GAiN is significant as it is the first time it has been held in the South Pacific Division, an innovative Division supporting the global Church in significant ways in the areas of communication, media and technology.”
SPD leaders are encouraging local participation in the event.
“GAiN coming to the SPD and New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our people in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands,” said Mr Pedersen.
“GAiN is open to anyone involved in the communication/media/mission-based ministries of the Church,” said Dr Kemp.
Attendees will hear from a mix of local and international guests.
“We are excited to have the presence of Pastor Köhler, a strong supporter of the role of communication in the Church, as well as our morning worship speaker, New Zealand native and media missionary, John Bradshaw,” said Mrs Truman.
The event will be held at the Grand Millennium in Auckland and while technology and media will be key focus areas, the central purpose of the conference is mission.
“[The convention will remind us] we are not alone in mission, but all share the same calling,” said Mr Pedersen. “And having the opportunity to ‘rub shoulders’ with leaders from Germany, Kenya, Argentina, Egypt, Malaysia, Australia, and many other countries, adds to the shared vision and mission of the world Church. We are all in this together.
“Hopefully, everyone attending will walk away inspired and ready to share Christ with those around them in new ways that touch the heart of the lost.”
Visit adventist.digital/convention for more info.
