The Seventh-day Adventist Church not only concerns itself with the religious freedom of its members and institutions but also supports this unrestricted right for all individuals, regardless of their religious affiliation. This concern led to the establishment of one of the denomination’s earliest departments, aimed at promoting and maintaining religious freedom, with a special emphasis on individual freedom of conscience.
A RIGHT FOR
EVERYONE
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly voted by acclamation to adopt the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It was the first time in history that several countries had embraced a document of this nature as essential.
Article 18 defines religious freedom as follows: “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.”
IN SEARCH OF
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
AND CONSCIENCE
THE RIGHT TO BELIEF IS A FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE DEFENDED BY ADVENTISTS SINCE THE ORGANIZATION’S BEGINNINGS
On June 21, 1889, Adventist pioneers established the National Religious Liberty Association in the United States. They signed a Declaration of Principles which included the statement: “We believe that it is right and should be the privilege of every man to worship according to the dictates of his own conscience.” The Church then published its first declaration on religious freedom and organized the Public Affairs and Religious Liberty department. Since then, this has been a significant topic for the denomination. In 1893, the International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA) was organized and sponsored by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
THE RIGHT TO BELIEF IS A FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE DEFENDED BY ADVENTISTS SINCE THE ORGANIZATION’S BEGINNINGS
Its purpose is universal and non-sectarian, dedicated to the cause of religious freedom. It has a permanent representation at the United Nations and organizes conferences and congresses, in addition to publishing extensive literature. Various religious groups are represented on the board of the IRLA.
As a non-profit organization, it is active through its affiliates in over 200 countries. Adventists believe that religious freedom is a factor of peace and security, and the best response to intolerance. Therefore, it encourages people of different beliefs and convictions to respect each other and work together for the common good.
See Also
Humanitarian Service
In the face of calamities, war scenarios, or natural disasters, the Adventist Church is present through its humanitarian agency, which annually benefits millions of people around the world.
Human Development
To contribute to the development of children and adolescents, Adventists maintain global programs that stimulate creativity, fellowship, learning, and love for God and others.
BIBLE STUDY
The Bible is the revelation of God’s love, character, and justice to humanity. Its study plays a central role in the life and practice of Seventh-day Adventists.
organizational STRUCTURE
From the local church to the world headquarters, learn about the administrative levels that work to strengthen faith, Bible teaching and support different initiatives aimed at members, others and society.
IDENTITY
With a clear vision of its mission to proclaim hope to the world, the Adventist Church has a unique identity based on the Bible. This is present from its fundamental beliefs to its elementary fronts of action.