On October 28, 2025, in the presence of political and religious leaders, the Union of Adventist Conferences of France, Belgium, and Luxembourg laid the cornerstone of its future headquarters in Dammarie-les-Lys. The ceremony marked the official launch of an ambitious project that blends innovation with deep spiritual commitment.
The Franco-Belgian Union gathered key construction partners and distinguished guests, including: Gilles Battail, mayor of Dammarie-les-Lys; Pastor Kristian Krieger, president of the Protestant Federation of France; Réto Mayer, representative of the Inter-European Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church; Pastor Jean-Jack Chafograck, president of the Northern France Conference.
They were joined by members of the local Dammarie-les-Lys Adventist Church and several deputy mayors. The warm and convivial gathering set a collaborative tone for this landmark project.
A Place of Dialogue and Connection
Mayor Gilles Battail highlighted the building’s significance for the community, describing it as a vital contributor to human development and a valuable opportunity for respectful dialogue between faith and civic institutions.
A Symbolic New Chapter
For Union President Pastor David Milard, the cornerstone represents far more than a physical foundation. “This is how we want to innovate,” he explained, “by staying closely connected to our local area, by being attentive and responsive to the needs around us, and by offering creative, effective solutions. Connection matters deeply to us—moving forward together, in an integrated way, without silos. We want every person to feel part of this shared mission. We hope this building will visibly embody that vision.”
The new headquarters also reflects the ongoing growth of the Adventist Church in France. The modern facilities and tools it will provide are expected to strengthen the Union’s evangelistic outreach and help communicate its values more clearly and widely within society.
Committed Partners
Over 80 workers are currently involved in constructing the 1,135 m² building. Designed by architect Virgile Roger and the MAC-Architecture team, the flexible, open-plan spaces are intended to foster communication, collaboration, and sharing among staff and visitors. The headquarters is scheduled to open in 2027 and will serve as a strategic hub for future initiatives.
The Union of Adventist Conferences of France, Belgium, and Luxembourg coordinates the activities of the Seventh-day Adventist Church across the three countries. It supports local churches and federations in their spiritual, educational, social, and humanitarian work—training pastors, promoting Christian education, and engaging in community service through organizations such as ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency). The new building will empower the Union to carry out this mission with renewed energy and effectiveness.
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