St. Louis, USA – As the 62nd General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church continued on July 7, 2025, delegates affirmed the leadership that will guide the global church’s administrative functions for the upcoming quinquennium.
Among the crucial appointments made at the General Conference level were the re-election of the undersecretary and several associate secretaries, alongside the election of new individuals to these vital roles.
These leaders play a significant role in overseeing the worldwide operations, policies, and mission initiatives of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Hensley Moorooven was re-elected as the undersecretary of the General Conference. Having served in this position since April 2018, Moorooven continues to oversee critical administrative responsibilities, including the General Conference Constitution and Bylaws, Working Policy, and the meticulous preparation of agendas and minutes for major church meetings such as the General Conference Session and Annual Council.
His role also involves serving as a liaison to several world divisions.
The General Conference also confirmed the following individuals as associate secretaries, each bringing unique expertise to their global portfolios:
Gerson P. Santos was re-elected as an associate secretary. Since his initial election in 2015, Santos has played a key role in areas such as overseeing the Church Manual, and initiatives focused on nurturing and retaining church members worldwide.
Gary D. Krause was re-elected as an associate secretary and continues his leadership as the director of Adventist Mission. He has served in this dual capacity since July 2010, guiding global mission centers and church planting efforts across diverse cultural contexts.
Elbert Kuhn was re-elected as an associate secretary, a position he has held since June 2018. He also directs the Adventist Volunteer Service, facilitating global volunteer opportunities for church members.
Karen J. Porter was re-elected as an associate secretary. Elected in July 2014, she also serves as a co-director of International Personnel Resources and Services (IPRS), focusing on supporting mission personnel.
Selom Kwasi Sessou was newly elected as an associate secretary. He brings more than two decades of ministry experience and over 13 years of experience in church administration at the mission, union, and division levels. He most recently served as secretary of the West-Central Africa Division and has also held leadership roles in youth ministries, communication, evangelism, and human resources.
Alexander Ott was also newly elected as an associate secretary. A pastor and global mission strategist has committed his ministry to cross-cultural outreach, specifically targeting the 10/40 Window and unreached people groups. His extensive international experience includes serving in leadership and missionary capacities across Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.
These leaders will work collaboratively to support the General Conference Secretary in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the global church, thereby facilitating its mission to share the gospel message worldwide.
Sources: Adventist News Network
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