Ted N.C. Wilson, President of the Seventh-day Adventist World Church, Expresses Support for ADRA Amid USAID Funding Pause

SILVER SPRING, MD (February 21, 2025) – Ted N.C. Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist world church, has expressed his unwavering support for the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in the face of a temporary freeze in U.S. government funding, particularly from USAID, which has created significant challenges for the organization. Elder Wilson, who is also a member of the ADRA Board, is calling on church members, donors, and communities worldwide to continue their vital support of ADRA’s life-saving mission during this critical time.

In a heartfelt message to the global Seventh-day Adventist community, Elder Wilson praised ADRA for its over 40 years of humanitarian service, noting that the organization has consistently been a beacon of hope for the most vulnerable populations across the globe.

“ADRA’s mission has always been clear: to serve humanity so all may live as God intended,” said Elder Wilson. “Through hunger, poverty, disasters, and conflict, ADRA has been there, driven by the biblical values of justice, compassion, and love. Now, as we face an unprecedented financial challenge, ADRA remains resolute in its commitment to deliver aid where it is needed most.”

The Adventist Church president acknowledged the urgent financial gap caused by the USAID funding pause, which affects ADRA’s ability to sustain critical programs. However, he emphasized that ADRA’s work continues despite this setback.

“Even in the face of adversity, ADRA is adapting and will remain steadfast in its mission to provide humanitarian assistance,” he said.

Elder Wilson further called on the global church to unite to support ADRA’s work.

“We are asking for your continued partnership and generosity to help ADRA overcome this funding gap,” he stated. “Without the faithful support of our church members and donors, ADRA’s ability to serve will be significantly hindered. The needs of the vulnerable and displaced populations have never been more urgent.”

In addition to urging financial support, Elder Wilson addressed recent misconceptions that have circulated about ADRA.

“Some have suggested that ADRA has engaged in illegal activities, but this is completely incorrect,” he affirmed. “ADRA operates with the highest ethical and legal standards, in harmony with our faith. We are committed to serving all people with compassion and dignity, regardless of their legal status.”

Adventist Church President Wilson also reminded the church that ADRA’s work is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, citing Matthew 25:35, where Jesus calls for compassion toward strangers.

“ADRA’s mission is to show the love of Christ by providing life-saving aid in compliance with the law, and in partnership with local communities. Together, we can continue to restore dignity and provide hope to those who need it most,” he concluded.

Elder Wilson and his wife Nancy, both long-time supporters of ADRA, have committed to supporting the organization with both prayer and financial donations.

“We invite you to join us in this mission,” he said. “As we read in Proverbs 14:31, ‘Whoever is kind to the needy honors God.’ Let us honor God together by supporting ADRA in this critical moment of need.”

The message is accompanied by a video from Elder Wilson, inviting the church to watch and respond to the urgent call for support.

Click here to watch his video message.

Contribute to ADRA’s global humanitarian work by donating here.

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About ADRA

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency is the international humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church serving in 118 countries. Its work empowers communities and changes lives around the globe by providing sustainable community development and disaster relief. ADRA’s purpose is to serve humanity so all may live as God intended.

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