Adventist Leaders Reaffirm Mission Focus Across Inter-America
Message urges institutional leaders to preserve spiritual purpose ahead of board meetings.
May 4, 2026 | Miami, Florida, United States | Inter-American Division News
Seventh-day Adventist leaders from across the Inter-American Division (IAD) were challenged to reaffirm the mission and spiritual purpose of Adventist institutions during a devotional message presented ahead of institutional board meetings on May 4, 2026, at the division headquarters in Miami, Florida, United States.
Pastor Alvaro Niño, undersecretary of the IAD, emphasized the vital role institutions play in supporting the church’s mission and warned of the risks of losing focus amid operational demands.
Álvaro Niño, undersecretary of the Inter-American Division, shares a devotional message ahead of institutional board meetings at IAD headquarters in Miami, Florida, on May 4, 2026. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]
“These institutions are centers of influence,” Niño said, noting that many individuals encounter the church’s message through schools, hospitals, and other services.
Institutions as Gateways to Mission
Drawing from Mark 11:15–17, Niño reflected on Jesus cleansing the temple, highlighting both the purpose of institutions and the dangers they face.
“‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’” Niño read, underscoring that institutions must remain places where people can encounter God.
He cautioned that institutions can drift from their original purpose if they become overly focused on structure, administration, or financial sustainability.
“When institutions lose their direction, they risk becoming something God never intended,” he said.
Niño highlighted how Adventist institutions often serve as bridges to the community, breaking down barriers to the gospel.
He explained that many individuals who may not attend a church service are willing to engage through educational or healthcare services, where they experience Christian values in action.
“In these environments, trust is built, and hearts are opened to the influence of the Holy Spirit,” he said.
Niño urged attendees to examine whether their institutions continue to reflect the mission and values upon which they were established.
“Are there things that need to be removed or changed because they are distracting from the mission?” he asked, referencing the need to eliminate practices that hinder spiritual impact.
He warned against the danger of “noise” and distractions—whether through bureaucracy, misplaced priorities, or attitudes—that can prevent individuals from experiencing a connection with God.
Connecting People to God and Each Other
In his closing remarks, Niño pointed to the biblical foundations of the Sabbath and marriage as models for institutional purpose, emphasizing both spiritual connection and relational harmony.
He explained that institutions should help people connect with God while also fostering environments of respect, support, and community.
“Our institutions must connect people with God and create spaces where relationships reflect the values of His kingdom,” he said.
Niño invited leaders to seek God’s guidance in ensuring that institutions remain aligned with their mission, emphasizing their role beyond service delivery.
He prayed that Adventist institutions would be places where individuals encounter hope, healing, and the message of salvation.
“May our institutions be true houses of prayer—places where people find answers to their needs and are led to Christ,” he said.
Institutional boards reporting to members today included the Inter-American Division Publishing Association, Adventist Healthcare Services, the Health Food Company, and educational boards.