The North France Federation dedicated Saturday, May 3, 2025, to a deep and committed reflection on religious freedom, an event that took place at the South Paris Adventist Church, nicknamed “130.” Placed under the evocative theme of “Love Does Not Burn Bridges,” this initiative aimed to raise awareness among church members and the public about an understanding of religious freedom that goes beyond one’s own convictions to embrace the other.
Raising awareness about freedom of conscience for all
The day began with moments of reflection and teaching in the presence of the Executive Secretary of the Franco-Belgian Union, who is also the head of the religious freedom department for this territory. The main objective was to emphasize that religious freedom, although crucial for the practice of individual faith—such as Sabbath observance for Adventists—is, above all, a fundamental human right. This right finds its inalienable source in freedom of conscience, a principle that concerns every individual, regardless of their beliefs or lack thereof. The theme, “Love Does Not Burn Bridges”, thus served as a guiding thread to encourage an approach to religious freedom that builds connections and fosters mutual understanding in a pluralistic society.
Symposium on religious persecution: Overview and actions
The afternoon was marked by a highly relevant symposium, bringing together several players committed to the defense of human rights and religious freedom. Representatives from the Porte-Ouverte association, Christian Solidarity International (CSI), and International Association for the Defense of Religious Liberty (AIDLR) shared their analyses and testimonies on the state of religious persecution around the world.
The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by many faith communities across the globe. Beyond observation, the symposium also allowed for the presentation of various ways in which churches and Christian organizations are actively mobilizing. These mobilizations take the form of tangible responses, both on the ideological level—through awareness-raising and advocacy—and on the humanitarian level—through direct support to victims of persecution.
Adventist commitment to freedom of conscience
This special day was also an opportunity to recall the constant commitment of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to freedom of conscience and religion. This commitment is institutionally manifested through its religious freedom department, present at all levels of the church organization.
Moreover, the Church actively supports and collaborates with associations such as the AIDLR. The latter stands out for its mission to defend all causes related to religious freedom, whether they concern Christians, people of other convictions, or people without convictions. This inclusive approach highlights the Adventist belief that freedom of conscience is a precious and universal good to be protected for all.
The day of May 3 at the South Paris church thus offered a space for reflection, prayer, and a call to action, reaffirming the importance of actively defending religious freedom as an essential pillar of a just and fraternal society.
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