05/07/2025
In the Seventh-day Adventist Church, PARL stands for Public Affairs and Religious Liberty. It is a major ministry and global department of the church, dedicated to defending religious freedom, promoting liberty of conscience, and representing the Adventist Church to governments, interfaith organizations, and the public.
🔹 Purpose of PARL in the Adventist Church
1. Promote and Defend Religious Freedom for All People
Not just for Adventists, but for anyone facing religious discrimination or persecution.
2. Represent the Church Publicly
Acts as the Adventist Church’s voice in:
Government relations
United Nations and other international bodies
Interfaith and non-governmental dialogues
3. Provide Legal and Practical Support
Helps Adventists facing religious liberty issues, especially:
Sabbath work conflicts
Military service (conscientious objection)
Discrimination in schools or public spaces
4. Educate and Equip Church Members
Raises awareness about:
The importance of religious liberty
How to respectfully advocate in civic matters
The biblical and prophetic basis for freedom of conscience
🔹 Key PARL Activities
Liberty Magazine
A long-standing publication promoting religious freedom, often shared with lawmakers, judges, and thought leaders.
Religious Liberty Sabbath
An annual Sabbath (usually in January) where churches highlight PARL’s work, preach about freedom of conscience, and collect offerings to support Liberty Magazine.
Legal and Civic Advocacy
PARL works with attorneys and policymakers to ensure laws protect religious practices, such as Sabbath observance and conscientious objection.
Interfaith Relations and Diplomacy
PARL leaders regularly meet with other faith groups, embassies, and international organizations to build bridges and advocate for peace and justice.
