Dodoma, Tanzania—From July 15-25, 2024, a dedicated team of over 150 volunteers from 19 countries participated in a medical mission in Dodoma, Tanzania’s capital. Dodoma was strategically chosen for its access to local hospitals (where major surgeries took place), schools (where health education was offered), and the local church (where renovations were made), allowing for a comprehensive outreach effort.
The volunteers brought medicine, supplies, equipment, and an unwavering commitment to serve those in need. Over the 10-day mission, more than 4,200 people received medical care across various specialties:
The mission reached out to the broader community while also assisting the local Reform Movement family. While medical services were being provided, another group of volunteers renovated the local church in Dodoma, offering a refreshed place of worship. Children from the community were also given snacks during this time, as they watched the renovations.
The mission drew the attention of local media, and reporters arrived to interview organizers and document the impact of the initiative. Hon. Rosemary Senyamule, the Regional Commissioner, visited the site, where Brother David Zic had the chance to share the mission’s motivation and the desire to spread God’s love through service.
Opportunities to share the Gospel were woven throughout the mission. The brethren sang hymns as they waited for their appointments, counseling sessions were offered, and invitations to attend church on Sabbath were made. When Sabbath arrived, mission activities paused, allowing volunteers and local members to worship together. It was moving to see patients who had been treated during the week there, as well as to hear the testimonies of the volunteers. For some, the medical mission was their first contact with the church. They had heard about the mission trip, registered as a volunteer, and participated in a Sabbath service for the first time during the mission. One young woman from Dodoma, moved by her experience as a patient, took time off work to volunteer as a translator and worshiped with the brethren for the first time.
Throughout the mission, the volunteers witnessed miracles of resilience and healing, often beyond what was expected. Praise the Lord for the opportunity to serve, and a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors who provided additional funds when supplies ran low. We pray that the mission’s impact will result in ongoing physical and spiritual health for all who were touched.
Wisła, Poland—The highly anticipated International Youth Convention took place in Wisła, Poland, from July 29 to August 4, 2024, drawing youth from 34 countries to the scenic region along the Vistula River.
This year’s convention featured a poignant visit to Auschwitz, which offered participants a moment of deep reflection. The event was also filled with opportunities for fellowship, enriching spiritual gatherings, interactive Q&A sessions, workshops, and inspiring sacred music. Centered around the theme “Heaven on Earth,” the lectures focused on how to embody the principles of heaven in our daily lives, preparing ourselves for Heaven above
Guest speakers included Brethren Adrian Finaru (GC Youth Department Director), Liviu Tudoroiu (GC Secretary), John Baer (GC Medical Missionary Department Director), and several local leaders and youth also contributed to the event’s spiritual depth and community spirit.
The convention was a profound blessing for all who attended. We pray that the messages delivered will resonate in the hearts of the young people, guiding them to live out the principles of heaven here on earth and ultimately experience the fullness of heaven in eternity.
The International Youth Convention is an annual event. Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025 and 2026 locations. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this life-changing experience!
Moorea, French Polynesia—From July 22-August 4, a group of fifty dedicated individuals gathered on the stunning island of Moorea for a two-week seminar that combined faith, service, and community. The event, organized by our church in this remote yet beautiful part of the world, was filled with meaningful activities aimed at supporting the local population while deepening our connection with each other and our mission.
The seminar featured daily presentations each afternoon by Brother Etienne Lombard focused on the organization and mission of the Church, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of our methods of work and shared goals. These sessions were complemented by a variety of activities designed to engage all age groups, including games and activities specifically tailored for children and teenagers, fostering a sense of belonging and joy among the younger participants.
A significant highlight of the seminar was the opportunity to serve the local community through various missionary activities, particularly in the area of health. Every morning, we organized eye-washing clinics, which provided much-needed care to local residents, and offered instruction on using local plants for medicinal purposes, sharing valuable knowledge that can help improve health and well-being in the community.
Our commitment to service extended beyond health care. We also engaged in charitable activities, including the distribution of clothing and food to those in need. Additionally, our team helped with practical tasks such as mowing lawns, contributing to the overall upkeep and beautification of the local environment.
One of the most memorable moments of the seminar was the baptism ceremony, a deeply spiritual experience that brought together the entire group in a celebration of faith.
Throughout the two weeks, our group not only provided tangible assistance to the local population but also strengthened our bonds with each other and with the people of Moorea. The seminar was a testament to the power of faith in action and left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
This experience in Moorea was more than just a seminar—it was a powerful reminder of the importance of community, service, and the joy that comes from helping others. As we return to our homes, we carry with us the lessons learned and the memories made, inspired to continue our mission in our everyday lives.
