Home Office Weekly Update: September 4, 2025

From the President...

Forty-six up-and-coming leaders from congregations in England, New Zealand, Canada and the U.S. attended our annual Leadership Workshop in Cincinnati this past weekend.

Our Ministerial and Member Services team of instructors was very appreciative of the men and women who showed zeal towards greater service by sacrificing their time and expense to participate in the conference. We thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them and pray for them and everyone whom Christ will put in the Body where it pleases Him (Ephesians 4:11).

Then, starting early each morning this week, the Council of Elders met at the home office to confer on its quarterly trove of Church-related business items. Much was accomplished in the concentrated time allocated to the business of our board of directors. Please look for the Council of Elders report coming out soon detailing the week's accomplishments.

Exciting developments are taking place in our gospel proclamation efforts as well:

• Print and digital materials are being written and published in new languages for quite a few previously unserved countries and languages—particularly in Asia, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.
• Our media department staff have been creating test video podcasts as another potential initiative for disseminating the gospel to diverse audiences across developing media platforms.
• In the near future we will begin screen-testing potential new Beyond Today video presenters.

Thank you for your ongoing service to God’s Church and for your prayers for the work of preaching the gospel and preparing God’s people.

With love, in Jesus Christ’s service,

John Elliott, President

Leadership Workshop 2025

Over Labor Day weekend, men and women from across the globe came together in Cincinnati, Ohio for a unique purpose: to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and prepare for greater service to His Church.

The theme, “A Leader Is First a Disciple,” set the tone for every message, workshop and conversation. From the opening Sabbath service to the final session on biblical leadership principles, the weekend emphasized that leadership in God’s work is not about titles or positions—it is about character, humility and service.

The weekend began on the Sabbath with inspiring split sermons by Darris McNeely and John Elliott, followed by sessions and practical workshops led by Steve Myers and Gary Petty.

Attendees were encouraged and challenged by messages on defending the faith, understanding servant leadership and recognizing their vital role in the work of God. Meals shared together and inspiring discussions helped remind everyone they are part of something far bigger than themselves—a spiritual body called to carry forward the gospel of the Kingdom of God to the world.

One attendee reflected: “I came here hoping to learn how to be a better leader, but I realized first I need to be a more faithful disciple. That changes everything.”

As the workshop concluded, the attendees returned to their home congregations with renewed vision, stronger faith and a deeper commitment to serve. We pray that effects of their dedication will reach far beyond the weekend—into congregations, families and communities across the world.

—Steve Myers, Operation Manager, Ministerial and Member Services

Benin Youth Camp 2025: Building on the Foundation

The coastal town of Grand-Popo, Benin hosted our United Youth Camp from July 27 to Aug. 3, bringing together 21 teenagers from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo under the theme “Building on the Foundation” (1 Corinthians 3:11).

Elder Pierre Ogoudele directed the camp alongside his wife, Rose, with Werner Solórzano from the home office and two U.S. volunteers: Joanna Bradford and her son Bill Bradford. Days began at 6 a.m. with calisthenics, followed by a structured schedule that included morning interactive Bible studies, English classes and several rotating activities: volleyball, baseball, archery, swimming lessons, rugby and workshop sessions where participants made bracelets and keychains. Thursday and Friday featured competitions and skills testing across all sport activities.

Post-camp evaluation showed improvements in participants’ spiritual commitment and behavior. As Mr. Ogoudele noted in his follow-up report, the camp is “a powerful transformation tool for our youth,” since the structured program strengthens their relationship with God and builds lasting connections with like-minded teens from the region as they navigate their challenges as young people in West Africa.

The camp concluded Saturday evening with a campfire where there was dancing, singing and humor. All participants received medals and merit certificates were awarded to those who excelled in the various sports competitions.

This youth camp provided regional teenagers a place to gather, develop skills and grow in their faith. The local team’s commitment and the program’s impact make this an important investment in West African youth.

Nigeria UYC Update: Building on the Foundation at Agaja Beach

We are excited to share that the United Youth Camps (UYC) 2025 in Nigeria was wonderful and successful at Agaja Beach—our cherished camp home for over a decade!

Agaja Beach is a breathtaking location, standing on a narrow strip of land embraced on one side by the mighty Atlantic Ocean and on the other by the calm Badagry Creek. The scenery alone makes camp unforgettable. The sunsets there paint the sky in golden hues, while the mornings bring a soft warmth that inspires joy, fellowship and gratitude to God. It truly is a friendly, lovely place for building lasting memories.

This year’s theme, “Building on the Foundation” (1 Corinthians 3:11), was already alive in the hearts of the 44 campers and 20 staff. From the first day, everyone threw themselves wholeheartedly into the experience, eager to grow spiritually, make new friendships and enjoy the blessings of God’s creation together.

The array of activities kept camp vibrant and full of life—from Christian Living classes and team challenges to sports, swimming, campfires, volleyball, archery, chess, dancing and craft class. The balance of fun, hard work and learning made the experience deeply rewarding. Campers did not just have fun—they were encouraged to grow in character, discipline and the joy of godly living.

We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to the home office and church members around the world for their love, prayers and consistent support. Your encouragement continues to enrich the lives of the youth here in Nigeria, helping us nurture future leaders who will stand firmly on the foundation of Jesus Christ.