Pastor Erton Carlos Köhler Elected 21st President of the General Conference
In a historic vote held on Friday, July 5, 2025, Pastor Erton Carlos Köhler was elected as the 21st President of the General Conference (GC) of Seventh-day Adventists. The election took place during the church’s General Conference Session, following the retirement of Pastor Ted Wilson, who had served in the role since 2010. P
GCSESSION
5/8/20241 min read
Pastor Köhler, originally from Brazil, brings a wealth of leadership experience to the role. Prior to his election, he served as the Secretary of the General Conference, and earlier as President of the South American Division, where he led with a focus on mission, youth engagement, and organizational growth.
Delegates from around the world gathered in St. Louis for the quinquennial GC Session, where they voted overwhelmingly in favor of Köhler’s appointment. His election marks a significant moment in the global church’s history, signaling continuity in mission while also reflecting the church’s increasingly international character.
In his first remarks as President-elect, Pastor Köhler expressed humility and a deep sense of responsibility.
“I am deeply honored by this calling and trust,” he said. “This is not a role for one person alone—it is a shared journey of faith, mission, and service. Together, we will move forward in proclaiming the everlasting gospel to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people.”
Köhler’s leadership comes at a time of both challenge and opportunity for the global Adventist Church, with growing membership worldwide, especially in the Global South, and evolving cultural and technological landscapes impacting ministry.
Pastor Ted Wilson, whose tenure spanned 15 years, was known for his steadfast commitment to biblical foundations and the mission of the church. He leaves behind a legacy of global evangelism and theological clarity.
Church members across the world have begun to express appreciation for Wilson’s leadership and anticipation for Köhler’s vision.
The General Conference Session, the highest governing body of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, meets every five years to make decisions impacting the global denomination, which now counts over 22 million members across more than 200 countries and territories.
Pastor Köhler’s term as president begins immediately, and he is expected to outline his priorities in the coming days as he steps into one of the most visible and influential leadership roles in the global Adventist community.
