Hailing from across the Inter-European Division (EUD) region, directors of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries met in Varese, Italy, from 29 June to 2 July for the quinquennial Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Advisory. Representatives from all EUD Unions participated in four days of worship, learning, discussion, and strategic planning as the department prepares for the next five-year period.
The advisory was hosted and opened by Florian Ristea, EUD Sabbath School and Personal Ministries director, who warmly welcomed the participants. In his opening message, he emphasized the importance of strengthening Sabbath School as the heart of discipleship and mission within the local church.
The meeting featured a strong team from the General Conference Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Department, led by Daniel Ebenezer, Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Department director, together with associate director Miguel Patiño, Sabbath School associate director; Joe Reeves, assistant director for the inVerse Bible Study; and Clifford Goldstein, senior editor for the Sabbath School Adult Bible Study Guide. Rather than simply presenting new initiatives, the General Conference team intentionally created opportunities for dialogue, listening carefully to the realities, needs, and challenges faced by the diverse territories of the Inter-European Division.
Throughout the advisory, presentations focused on the biblical and historical foundations of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries, while exploring practical ways to revitalize local church life. Participants were reminded that Sabbath School is far more than a weekly program—it is the Church's primary discipleship system, built around three interconnected dimensions: communion with God through scripture, community through meaningful fellowship, and commission through mission and witness.
Special attention was given to the challenge of declining Sabbath School attendance and participation. Practical strategies encouraged churches the various unions’ Sabbath School leaders in guiding the local churches to rediscover Sabbath School as a genuine worship experience, strengthen small-group fellowship, and place mission once again at the centre of church life.
One of the engaging presentations by Florian Ristea, “The Class – A Parable about Sabbath School”, invited participants to reflect on the diversity found in every Sabbath School class. Using the illustration of a multi-age classroom, the presentation challenged leaders to move beyond simply accepting difficulties or assigning blame, and instead dedicate themselves to finding creative, Christ-centred solutions for helping every member grow spiritually.
The advisory also explored ministry to younger generations. Joe Reeves introduced the ongoing development of the inVerse Bible Study Guide, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where young adults experience belonging, engage in deep Bible study, develop authentic Christian character, and participate actively in mission.
Another important contribution came from Noemi Magyarosi, EUD Children's Ministries director, who introduced the “Alive in Jesus” Sabbath School curriculum. Her presentation demonstrated how this globally developed resource is helping children build a strong biblical foundation while growing in a personal relationship with Jesus from their earliest years.
The participants were also encouraged by the presence of Barna Magyarosi, president of the Inter-European Division, whose participation underscored the strategic importance of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries in fulfilling the Church's mission throughout the division.
Beyond the presentations, one of the greatest blessings of the advisory was the atmosphere itself. Set against the welcoming surroundings of Varese, the gathering fostered open conversations, mutual encouragement, and a shared commitment to strengthening discipleship across Europe. Throughout the meetings, Sabrina Viaggi and Ruth Ramirez Patiño enriched the worship experience by accompanying the participants on the piano and with voice, leading the singing of "The Mission" and "OneVoice27"—the theme songs that will accompany the church's OneVoice27 initiative during the coming year. Their musical ministry helped unite participants in worship and continually reminded everyone of the shared mission that brings the global church together. Leaders from every union appreciated not only the quality of the presentations but also the willingness of the General Conference team to listen attentively and engage in meaningful dialogue about local opportunities and challenges.
Midway through the advisory, participants enjoyed an afternoon excursion to the Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its scenic pilgrimage route and historic chapels illustrating some of the most significant moments of the Lord Jesus Christ’s ministry on this earth. The walk provided a welcome opportunity to slow down, enjoy God's creation, and deepen friendships beyond the meeting room. The day concluded with a shared dinner at Pizzeria La Piedigrotta, where conversations continued over authentic Italian pizza. This time of fellowship strengthened relationships among the participants and reinforced the sense of unity and teamwork that characterized the entire advisory.
As participants returned to their respective fields, they carried with them renewed vision, practical resources, stronger friendships, and a shared commitment to making Sabbath School and Personal Ministries vibrant centres of Bible study, fellowship, and mission. The advisory reaffirmed that when these ministries intentionally nurture communion with Christ, authentic community among believers, and active participation in God's mission, they become powerful instruments for making disciples across the Inter-European Division.
