Southwestern Union Conference President

06/18/2026

Beautiful worship this morning at Arkla Executive Committee!!

06/18/2026

Honored to be attending the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Executive Committee today. This vibrant conference, with nearly 15,000 members, is led by Elder Jeff Villegas and his dedicated team who are deeply committed to advancing the mission. Grateful for the opportunity to share a devotional this morning. Please keep the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference in your prayers today as we seek God’s guidance and direction.

06/12/2026

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, I am deeply inspired by what this represents—not just for Southwestern Adventist University, but for the future of mission‑driven education.
More than 7,000 miles from campus, our students didn’t simply learn—they lived out their calling. In Palau, they restored facilities, served local churches, and built meaningful relationships that transcend culture and geography. But perhaps most importantly, they returned transformed—reminded that true education shapes the heart as much as the mind.
This is the Southwestern difference.
We are committed to developing leaders who are grounded in faith, equipped with knowledge, and driven by a passion to serve wherever God leads them. Experiences like this are not extracurricular—they are essential to who we are.
If you are looking for a place where your education goes beyond the classroom…
If you want to grow in purpose, leadership, and service…
If you are ready to be challenged, inspired, and transformed…
Southwestern Adventist University is calling.
Join us in building lives of impact.

06/08/2026

Boarding my flight in South Bend, IN, with a heart full of gratitude as I head back to Dallas after a truly beautiful and meaningful Andrews University Board of Trustees Retreat.
This past Sabbath in Battle Creek, MI was especially memorable as we visited the Adventist Historic Village—a place that reminds us of the humble beginnings, faith, and mission that shaped who we are as a people. Standing where so much of our history was written was both grounding and inspiring. We were richly blessed by a powerful sermon from our GC President, Erton Köhler, calling us to remain faithful and mission-focused in these times.
The weekend and start of the week continued with incredible tours on the campus of Andrews University, insightful reports, and a full board session today. It was a privilege to engage alongside representatives from the World Church, AdventHealth, and dedicated lay leaders from across the North American Division.
I am deeply humbled to represent the Southwestern Union in these important conversations and to witness the unity and vision that continues to move our mission forward.
As I reflect on these past days, I’m reminded that our history is not just something we honor—it’s something we carry forward with purpose.
Together in Mission.

06/06/2026

What a month it has been at the Southwestern Union!
By God’s grace, we’ve completed three major transitions—appointing a new president for Southwestern Adventist University, finalizing the search and electing a new president for the Texas Conference, and this week electing all of our Union directors. Truly, what a full and meaningful season.
I’m deeply grateful for the amazing and dedicated team across our Union—our five conferences, our university, and our hospital system. We are stronger together… Together in Mission.
This weekend, I’m on the beautiful campus of Andrews University, representing the Union as an advisor on the Board of Trustees, joining in a retreat and orientation for new members.
God is leading, doors are opening, and His purpose is clear. Together in Mission, we are moving forward—guided by faith, united in purpose, and committed to what He has ahead for us.
Have a blessed Sabbath!!

05/28/2026

Congratulations, Dr. Castillo! What a blessing for the Texas Conference. May God continue to guide you and use you powerfully in this new role.

Ismael A. Castillo, Ph.D., has been elected president of the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. With nearly 30 years of ministry leadership and extensive experience in multicultural ministries, Dr. Castillo brings a strong record of church growth and evangelism. He is known for his commitment to service, mission and community engagement. Please join us in praying for him as he begins this important role! 🙏

Learn more: TexasAdventist.org/TXCPresidentCastillo2026

05/28/2026

One of the great privileges of serving as Union President is representing our Union on various boards and committees. Today, that work brings me close to home as I attend the community board at Texas Health Huguley Hospital.
We are proud of this strong partnership and grateful to stay connected with such an amazing hospital—one that continues to deliver excellent care while fulfilling its mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ.
After this meeting, I’ll be heading back to the Union to chair the Texas Conference Executive Committee as we prayerfully select their new president.

05/16/2026

Happy World Adventurer Day!
Today we celebrate something truly special—the blessing of our Adventurers’ Ministry and the incredible impact it has on our children, families, and communities.
We are so grateful…
Grateful for our Adventurers—the joy, energy, and faith they bring to our churches.
Grateful for the parents who faithfully support and encourage their children every step of the way.
Grateful for our dedicated volunteers across our Union who believe deeply in this ministry and give of their time and love so selflessly.
Grateful for our churches, pastors, and leaders whose support makes this ministry thrive.
For years, Adventurers and leaders have dreamed of a global celebration—and now it’s here! World Adventurer Day, observed every third Sabbath of May, is a beautiful reminder of what it means to be an Adventurer. It’s a time to celebrate our children, highlight their importance, and show the world the blessing they are to both the church and the community.
Let’s continue to uplift, inspire, and invest in our Adventurers—they are the present joy and the future of our church.

Together in Mission—we grow, serve, and lead the next generation for Christ.

Have a blessed Sabbath!!