Tag: AIIAS
With a record-breaking attendance of 935 participants, the 27th Annual Theological Forum at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) drew together scholars, pastors, and church leaders from across the globe and primarily from the Philippines. Notably, the largest contingents hailed from Central Luzon Conference, Cavite Mission, and Mountain View College.
Themed “Adventist Identity: Fulfilling God’s Mission,” this year’s forum facilitated rich discussions on how identity informs mission in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Dr. Leonardo Nunes, the forum committee chair explained that this year is a special year for Seventh-day Adventists. He said, “We are celebrating the 180th Anniversary of the Great Disappointment, along with the 150th Anniversary of Adventist Mission, when John N. Andrews was appointed as our first official Adventist missionary.” These two events have many things in common.
The plenary sessions featured distinguished speakers who explored the various dimensions of Adventist identity. Dr. David Trim, Director of Archives, Statistics, and Research at the General Conference, presented on “Narrative, Doctrine, and Historical Practice: Reflections on Adventist Identity in History and Theology.” His address underscored the significance of historical praxis alongside theological studies, arguing that “identity must be anchored in lived experience, not just doctrinal understanding.”
Dr. Frank Hasel, Associate Director of the Biblical Research Institute, discussed “Foundational Aspects of Adventist Identity,” advocating a return to foundational principles that shape beliefs and mission.
Dr. Jiri Moskala, Dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University, addressed “The Seventh-day Adventist Identity—Who Are We as the Community of Faith?” He pointed out that the Seventh-day Adventist identity is rooted in understanding who we are as a faith community, defined by our distinguishing characteristics and qualities. Essential to this identity is self-awareness and self-perception, which are shaped “by looking to Jesus as our model and drawing lessons from the identities of the Old and New Testament Churches.”
Dr. Ricardo González, Dean of AIIAS Seminary, reaffirmed the AIIAS’ mission in his welcome message, stating, “As we gather to reflect on our unique identity, we are reminded of the urgent task to remain faithful to our calling as the remnant church.” Highlighting AIIAS’s commitment to nurturing leaders, Dr. González added, “We are here to prepare leaders who will advance the Adventist mission with clarity and conviction.” His message reinforced AIIAS’s pivotal role in equipping leaders to serve the Adventist church and support its mission worldwide.
On this note, Dr. Bienvenido Mergal, Director of the Education Department of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) shared his appreciation for AIIAS. “We express gratitude to the AIIAS Seminary for hosting this important program which greatly benefits our pastors and leaders in the SSD territory.” The SSD helped sponsor 60% of the attendees to the forum.
As this year’s forum came to a close, Dr. Nunes announced that the theme for next year’s event will be “Financial Stewardship,” a topic that resonates with the Adventist Church’s focus on responsible management of resources.
More than 70 individuals presented on various topics in the plenary and breakout sessions. This count includes faculty, students, and guest speakers who contributed to the forum’s extensive agenda.
With this year’s forum held from Nov 14 to 16, 2024, concluding on a high note, AIIAS continues to excel in theological education and prepare mission-driven leaders within the Adventist Church.
Photos credit: AIIAS Public Relations office
AIIAS has published its first history book commemorating the events between the institution’s inception and the present. “AIIAS: The First 50 Years” is authored by former AIIAS faculty member Dr. Shawna Vyhmeister. The book was first released during the 50th Founding Anniversary Celebration of AIIAS, beginning with a book signing event at the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of Seventh-day Adventists Midyear Meetings on May 2, 2023.
The concept of creating a book on the 50-year history of AIIAS was born during a Loma Linda-area alumni meeting in 2021, during a friendly get-acquainted discussion between former AIIAS Professors Dr. Shawna and Ronald Vyhmeister and AIIAS President Ginger Ketting-Weller. The AIIAS Board and administration of the institution enthusiastically supported the project from the start.
The history book tells the story of how AIIAS began and how it continues to thrive in the present time. It pays tribute to the service offered by pioneering leaders of AIIAS and numerous stories of God’s faithfulness towards AIIAS from its humble beginning. The book is divided into three significant periods: paying tribute to the historical roots and early years of the seminary (1952-1985), a closer look at the AIIAS years (1985-present), and several themes that provide a deeper look into life at AIIAS and activities that support its mission. In addition, several interviews from key leaders and pioneering professors who lived through experiences at AIIAS illustrate how God has blessed the institution throughout the years. Documentary research conducted in institutional archives also provided data to support the facts cited in the book.
Showcased in separate sections are photographs of the campus’ early years, providing a view of how the current campus came to be. It also features photos of notable campus activities and the diverse international community that comprises AIIAS. The photos document how AIIAS has grown from a small beginning to today’s beautiful campus.
The 317-page book is the result of the unselfish efforts of those who have passed through and currently serving at AIIAS. AIIAS is grateful to the Vyhmeisters for their continued support for AIIAS and contribution to documenting this important history while pioneers and those who knew them are still available to share their stories.
“AIIAS was founded to bring world-class Seventh-day Adventist graduate education to Asia”, explains AIIAS President Ginger Ketting-Weller. “AIIAS is busy developing the next generation of leaders who have that unique cultural worldview that comes from studying at AIIAS. We exist to serve the Seventh-day Adventist church, and we’re grateful to pursue our mission hand-in-hand not only with our home regions in Asia, but as a service to the world church.”
President Ketting-Weller presented a copy of the AIIAS history book to Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of Seventh-day Adventists. Pastor Audrey Andersson, general vice president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and AIIAS board chair, also accepted a copy to carry back to the General Conference for Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Many of the SSD Constituency Members raised their hands when SSD President Caderma asked who among these church leaders were AIIAS alumni. “I would like to encourage everyone to get a copy for our institutions. We are here to support AIIAS. It is our institution, training leaders for our church, and we are thankful for that program.”
“Got one copy today. The read was sparklingly golden! One shouldn’t miss reading part three of the book, miracles at AIIAS. For me, the best miracle is me, [that] God made me part of AIIAS,” shares Mamerto Guingguing, associate secretary of SSD.
AIIAS presses onward with its mission “to develop leaders through distinctively Seventh-day Adventist graduate education excelling in spirituality, scholarship, and service” from 50 years ago to that day when Jesus will return.
— Sharnie Love Zamora, AIIAS Assistant for Institutional Writing
The AIIAS Theological Seminary along with the community inaugurated its building extension with a ceremony today. The new facility holds three faculty offices, a resource room, secretarial cubicles and a chapel with seating capacity of 120 people.
AIIAS President Dr. Stephen Guptill, Seminary Dean Dr. Richard Sabuin, Donor Representative Cedric Lanchenal, Student Representative Budi Hartanto, and Architect Augustine Dela Paz cut the ribbon together symbolizing the official opening.
The community then gathered in the chapel for a session of praise beginning with a song of praise. Dr. Sabuin and his family then sang a special song.
“God and God alone. That’s the reason for this building. That’s the reason for this Seminary. That’s the reason why we are each here,” remarked Dr. Guptill before more than 150 people who filled the chapel to capacity. “This is an exciting moment for AIIAS and for all who have been a part of the project.” He also mentioned important individuals who were responsible for the ‘beautiful building.’
The physical look of the chapel provides a spiritual, open atmosphere. A high ceiling gives the room a spacious feel. The prominent Good Shepherd metal artwork is at the front of the room. The stained glass windows provide color and light.
Seminary Dean, Dr. Richard Sabuin extended appreciation to all the donors who have made this building possible. Some of the gold donors include AIIAS, Felix Tanny Family, Jonathan & Kathleen Kuntaraf, Wu Shuhui, Liang Chenghui, Paul Hadi and the Korean AIIAS Alumni Association.
“God is the source of the funds, and they have become the channel of these resources,” Dr. Sabuin gladly concluded by unfolding a scroll with the words ‘Praise the Lord’ printed on the reverse side.
A litany of praise by the congregation was led by the Vice President for Academic Administration Dr. Dolf Oberholster. A group picture was then taken, birds were released, and light refreshments followed.
The new extension building, measuring 450 sq. meters and costing $80,000, took approximately six months to build.
Dr. Stephen Guptill, AIIAS President, takes time to appreciate the people who made this extension a reality.
Students and staff join together in a litany of praise.
Students and staff join together in a litany of praise.
Representatives release birds after a group picture was taken.
For more pictures, please visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AIIAS
By: Ingrid Oberholster
AIIAS Assistant for Institutional Writing