This past July, New Zealand became the epicenter of global Adventist innovation as it hosted the Digital Strategy for Mission (DSM) World Convention. Running from July 2 to 13, this massive international summit gathered key players from Hope Channel, the Global Adventist Internet Network (GAIN), and the Adventist Technology Summit (ATS), alongside representatives from various church Divisions, Unions, and local missions worldwide.
Rather than just another administrative meeting, this annual event—which drew more than 600 participants—served as a collaborative launchpad. The goal was clear: align the church's global communication and technology sectors to build a unified, digital-first approach to sharing the gospel.
A Bold Vision: The OneVoice27 Project
At the very heart of this year’s discussions was 'OneVoice27', an ambitious global campaign designed to leverage the power of digital media on an unprecedented scale.
The project's objective is staggering: to reach one billion people with a coordinated message of hope across social media and digital platforms. Crucially, OneVoice27 isn’t just about broadcasting; it’s about connection. The initiative is built with a backend strategy to guide digital responders directly into fellowship with local churches in their own communities.
Crossing Borders by "Building Bridges"
Operating under the rallying cry of 'Building Bridges', creative minds and tech experts from dozens of countries traded insights on how to make Christ’s message resonate across a highly fragmented, multicultural world.
The consensus among attendees was unanimous: today's digital landscape offers a historic opportunity to reach communities that were previously entirely inaccessible. To equip leaders for this frontier, the convention hosted a series of hands-on, specialized workshops covering:
Audio & Video: Christian podcasting and program production, alongside the evolution of digital radio.
Creative Strategy: Content design, storytelling, and social media growth.
Engineering: Advanced technological development tailored for ministry needs.
High-Tech Meets High Calling
Despite the heavy focus on software, algorithms, and media production, the convention remained anchored in spiritual fellowship.
Inspiring devotionals by John Bradshaw and Lola Moore Johnston combined with key addresses from General Conference President Erton Köhler and Executive Secretary Paul Douglas, drove home a vital point: technology is merely a tool. Every digital breakthrough is meaningless unless it serves the ultimate mission of Christ.
Between these sessions, the networking areas buzzed with energy as leaders from different hemispheres swapped contact information, shared localized success stories, and laid the groundwork for future cross-border partnerships.
Old Mission, New Mediums
Ultimately, the takeaway from New Zealand was a profound reminder of continuity. While the platforms, algorithms, and devices are constantly shifting, the core mission remains identical to the one given two thousand years ago.
Just as previous generations relied on Roman roads, sailing ships, and the Gutenberg press to carry the Word of God, today’s church is called to utilize the digital highways of the 21st century to cross global borders in the blink of an eye.
