Adventist Headlines Around the World—February 1, 2025

AUSTRALIA

Sydney Adventist Hospital Anesthetist Reaches New Heights

Sydney Adventist Hospital anesthetist Gurdial Singh has embarked on an adventure of a lifetime: a trek to Mount Everest Base Camp.

The challenging trek to the base of Mount Everest was not just about reaching new heights but raising essential funds to upgrade the simulation center in the San’s Clinical Education Centre. The simulation center provides lifelike scenarios in which medical students, nurses, and doctors can practice and perfect their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Singh’s ascent saw him traverse through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush forests, and over suspension bridges. Highlights included breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

“Each of the stops along the way reveals a piece of Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry,” Singh said. “Standing at the foothills of the mighty Everest, the highest pinnacle on earth, is an experience that is unforgettable.” 

Reflecting on his achievement, Singh acknowledged that the trek required grit, determination, and preparation. But all the hard work was worth it when he witnessed the awe-inspiring sunset over majestic Everest, he said.

ITALY

Lodging Facility Celebrates 10 Years of Serving Patients’ Families in Florence

CasAurora, a facility that provides affordable accommodation for the families of patients in a nearby hospital in Florence, Tuscany, Italy, celebrated 10 years of service on December 9. The lodge, located on the grounds of Italian Adventist University Villa Aurora, has helped thousands of people looking for an affordable option close to University Hospital Florence.

The celebration included a conference under the theme “Listening Is Welcoming: CasAurora as Means of Support for the Patients’ Families.” According to organizers, the event was an opportunity to reflect on the critical role that the accommodation facility has played over the years. “CasAurora represents a concrete example of how hospitality can be transformed into an act of care for those who face difficult situations,” leaders said. “This conference reaffirmed the importance of structures like this, capable of combining professionalism, empathy, and faith in a service dedicated to others.”

Among the guests attending were Alberto Zanobini, head of Investment for Inclusion and Accessibility in Tuscany, and Nicola Paulesu, Florence councillor responsible for welfare and integration services.

GUINEA-BISSAU

Mission Pathfinder Camporee in Guinea-Bissau Opens With Baptism of 88 Members

A record-breaking Mission Pathfinder Camporee in Guinea-Bissau launched with the baptism of 88 participants, regional Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders recently reported. The nation hosted its regional Mission Pathfinder Camporee in late January, and according to regional church leaders, more than 2,000 Pathfinders attended the opening on January 25. Among the participants was a delegation of 24 church leaders and members from Brazil, led by Udolcy Zukowski, director of Adventurers and Pathfinders in the South American Division.

Guinea-Bissau church leaders highlighted the strong presence of nonchurch young members who nevertheless are attending Adventist schools in the country and participating in Pathfinders Clubs. Also, they shared that in alignment with the West-Central Africa Division Impact 2025 evangelistic initiative, all spiritual messages were centered on evangelism and complemented by getting Pathfinders engaged in community outreach activities.

“The initial baptism of 88 people marked a significant step of faith for the new believers,” regional church leaders said. “Please keep praying for the continued success of this [ministry] and for more lives to be touched and transformed.”

UNITED STATES

Church Member Honored with Live Saving Award from Police Department

Oak Grove City patrolman José Alba received the Life Saving Award on November 6 for his actions that saved a man’s life earlier this year. Alba, a dedicated member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, United States, said he gives all credit to God for guiding him through the intense situation.

The incident occurred in July 2024, when Alba responded to a call about a suicide attempt just a few blocks from his location. He arrived on the scene to find a man in critical condition. Acting quickly, Alba performed CPR, maintaining the man’s pulse until emergency medical responders arrived. The man was transported to the hospital and has since returned home.

Despite the commendation, Alba shares that it is God who deserves the glory.

“God put me there,” Alba said. “I was not scheduled to work that night; I had just picked up an overtime shift. I wasn’t supposed to be on duty, but God had a purpose.”

VIETNAM

Adventists Merge Faith and Health Care in Community Outreach in Vietnam

The Seventh-day Adventist church in Nha Trang, Vietnam, recently held two outreach programs to provide community members with health education. Volunteers from the local Adventist congregation visited the Nha Trang Hospital on December 20, offering prayers, singing hymns, and distributing small gifts to patients and their families.

Organizers say the visit brought a sense of peace and hope to those struggling with illness. Hospital staff and families expressed gratitude for the compassionate support.

On December 21 the church hosted a health-focused event attended by more than 40 people seeking to learn about wellness from physical and spiritual perspectives. Presentations titled “Biblical Wholistic Health” and “Brain Health” highlighted strategies to maintain overall well-being, organizers reported.

Church leaders said they plan to continue offering programs that combine faith and service to build trust and nurture spiritual growth throughout the region. “Our mission is to share hope and compassion with neighbors of all backgrounds,” they said.