With more than 25 leaders and guests from 10 European countries for a weekend of spiritual renewal, mission focus, and cross-border collaboration, the European chapter of the Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASi Europe) met together at the Nazna church in Mureș County, Romania. At the heart of ASi Europe—and reaffirmed once again at this meeting—is the vital contribution of church members in advancing the church’s mission through both their professional and personal witness.
ASi Europe’s Growing Network
ASi Europe now includes 19 national chapters across 22 European countries, comprising Adventist professionals, entrepreneurs, and individuals committed to “sharing Christ in the marketplace.” The board weekend in Romania served not only as a platform for strategic planning but also as an inspiration for spiritual growth and unity.
Ian Sweeney, Trans-European Division (TED) field secretary, delivered spiritual messages encouraging deeper dedication and faithfulness in mission. The meeting was also a celebration of growth, with ASi Italy officially established as a new chapter following a vote by the ASi Europe board.
Representatives from Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, Italy, Bulgaria, Portugal, and more gathered to share testimonies and updates on evangelistic projects, enriching the exchange of ideas and fostering mutual encouragement. Andrews University presented findings from its recent research on spiritual leadership, further equipping attendees with tools to integrate faith into leadership and outreach.
Vision and Fulfillment
The centerpiece of the weekend was the visit to the newly inaugurated Spitalul Oncologic Medex in Târgu-Mures, a flagship initiative by ASi Romania and the fulfillment of years of prayer and effort. Inaugurated in July 2024, Medex is already a beacon of hope and healing, aligning medical care with Christ’s compassionate mission.
“Medex Oncological Hospital is God’s gift to people, and I encourage us not to take this gift for granted,” ASi Romania president Remus Bența said. “Despite the challenges we have faced and will continue to face, we put our trust in God and move forward steadfastly, fulfilling the benevolent work to which we are called.” The verse “He has made everything beautiful in its time” (Eccl. 3:11) guided the fulfillment of this vision, now standing as a model of faith-based service for all of Europe.
The program was enriched by worship sessions and music performed by the Nazna church Choir, Voces group, and Nazna brass band. Personal testimonies from lay members highlighted how God is using professionals across Europe to fulfill the Adventist mission in creative and powerful ways.
Words of Gratitude and Vision
Speaking on the impact of the gathering and the decision behind its location, ASi Europe president Carlos Dias shared that during October 2024 “ASi Europe decided to hold its 2025 board meeting in Târgu Mureș to express our appreciation for ASi Romania’s outstanding work in recent years.” He added, “The Spitalul Oncologic Medex is a true inspiration across Europe, demonstrating the realization of the vision—the plan—and the fulfilled mission.”
According to Dias, the hospital tour and discussions over the weekend have sparked new dreams and challenges for everyone. “Congratulations to ASi Romania, the Adventist Church leadership, and the Nazna church—celebrating its 100th anniversary—for being such wonderful hosts!” he said.
ASi Europe continues to call Adventist members across the continent to consecration and action. Through its network of national chapters, ASi equips and empowers members to integrate faith into professional life and share Christ in every sphere of influence. “Today God calls each of us to fulfil our mission,” shared Casiana Fometescu, vice president for membership development and growth. “ASi Europe invites you to take part in this mission—to take the good news to the ends of the earth.”
About ASi Europe
Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASi) Europe is a supporting organization established to strengthen the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church within the Inter-European (EUD) and Trans-European (TED) divisions. Through collaboration with members from diverse professional backgrounds, ASi Europe promotes outreach programs aligned with the Adventist Church’s principles and values.
The roots of ASi can be traced back to Madison College, a self-supporting institution founded in 1904 near Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Strongly supported by Ellen G. White, the college became a model for mission-driven education and service. ASi was officially formed in the United States in 1947, with its inaugural meeting affirming its commitment to Ellen White’s vision of empowering laypeople to participate in God’s work.
Since its founding, ASi has grown into a global network of members committed to “sharing Christ in the marketplace.” This motto reflects the organization’s mission to integrate faith into daily life, inspiring professionals and business owners to represent Christ in their work and personal lives.
Today ASi Europe provides such resources as funding, training, and expertise to support mission-driven projects, including health, education, evangelism, and community initiatives. Guided by its core values—togetherness and inspiration—ASi Europe works to share the gospel, demonstrate Jesus’ love, and prepare all for Christ’s soon return.
The original version of this story was posted on the Trans-European Division news site. Adventist laymen’s Services and Industries is a nonprofit supporting organization that is not operated by the corporate Seventh-day Adventist Church.