Global Adventist Internet Network (GAiN) Convention Kicks Off with a Parade of Nations
Thirty-seven countries are represented at this year’s Global Adventist Internet Network (GAiN) Convention. The flags of these countries are being paraded to commemorate the 20th anniversary of GAiN’s dedication to leveraging digital technology to further the Adventist Church’s mission. The convention is celebrating the theme “Digital Strategy in Mission.”
The opening of this year’s GAiN Convention was a great success, setting a hopeful and enthusiastic tone for the event. People from around the world gathered to witness this significant milestone. The event began with a warm welcome from the local organizing committee and an inspiring devotional message from Pastor Sam Neves. He emphasized the pivotal role of digital strategy in modern mission work.
Neves, the Adventist Church’s Associate Communication Director, said, “As we celebrate two decades of GAiN, we are reminded of the transformative power of digital technology in spreading the Gospel. This year’s theme, ‘Digital Strategy in Mission,’ underscores our ongoing commitment to innovate and adapt to reach every corner of the world.”
Established in 2004, GAiN has been a leader in incorporating digital tools and strategies into the Adventist Church’s mission. Over the last two decades, GAiN has expanded into a worldwide network of professionals committed to improving the Church’s outreach through technology. The convention provides a platform for sharing knowledge, best practices, and upcoming trends in digital ministry.
Reflecting on GAiN’s journey, Williams Costa, the communication director of the worldwide Adventist Church, said, “It is incredible to see how far we have come in the past two decades. GAiN has continually adapted to the changing digital landscape, from our humble beginnings to becoming a global network. This convention is a testament to our shared vision and collective effort to harness technology for God’s work.”
This year’s GAiN Convention features a packed of reports, presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Key topics include social media strategy, augmented digital evangelism, cybersecurity in ministry, innovative uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in the ministry, and collaboration on projects that will shape the future of digital ministry.
Furthermore, a retrospective exhibit showcasing GAiN’s history and the collaboration of digital strategies in mission work is displayed in the third-floor lobby.
The Global Adventist Internet Network (GAiN) is an initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church aimed at enhancing the Church’s outreach in digital technology. Since its inception in 2004, GAiN has brought together communication professionals, technologists, and church leaders to collaborate on digital strategies that advance the Church’s mission.