Erton C. Köhler Elected President of the Seventh-day Adventist World Church
St. Louis, Missouri – July 4, 2025 — In a significant moment for the global Seventh-day Adventist Church, delegates at the 2025 General Conference Session elected Erton Carlos Köhler as the 21st President of the General Conference. His election marks the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of the 22-million-member global denomination, as he succeeds Ted N. C. Wilson, who served as president since 2010.
🌍 From Local Pastor to Global Leader
Erton Köhler was born on June 26, 1968 (or 1969), in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, into a family deeply rooted in Adventist ministry. His father was a pastor, which greatly influenced his early calling to serve. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theology in 1989 and a Master’s in Pastoral Theology in 2008 from the Brazilian Adventist University. He later pursued doctoral studies at Andrews University.
Köhler began his pastoral ministry in São Paulo from 1990 to 1994. His leadership potential was soon recognized, and he took on roles in youth ministries at both the conference and union levels in Brazil. In 2003, he became the Youth Ministries Director for the South American Division, and in 2007, at just 38 years old, he was elected President of the South American Division, becoming the youngest person ever to hold that position.
In 2021, Köhler was elected as Executive Secretary of the General Conference, one of the church’s three highest leadership roles. In that capacity, he oversaw global mission operations, membership statistics, and leadership development.
🎤 A Vision for Unity and Mission
Upon his election, Köhler delivered a heartfelt message emphasizing the importance of unity in fulfilling the church’s mission. He encouraged members around the world to move forward together, reaffirming that collective effort is key to reaching communities with the gospel.
Köhler’s leadership style is marked by collaboration, a strong focus on youth and discipleship, and a deep commitment to evangelism and global outreach. His South American background brings fresh perspectives and reflects the church’s growing diversity and international strength.
👨👩👧 Personal Life
Köhler is married to Adriene Marques, a trained nurse. The couple has two children. Their family has been deeply engaged in the mission of the church, supporting one another through years of service at the local, regional, and global levels.
🔍 What His Election Means
Köhler’s election is significant for several reasons:
- First South American President: His leadership represents the increasing international presence of the church, particularly in Latin America, where membership growth has been substantial.
- Emphasis on Youth and Evangelism: His experience in youth ministry suggests a continued focus on energizing the younger generation for mission.
- Global Perspective: Having served in diverse roles across multiple levels of the church, Köhler brings a broad, inclusive vision for the future.
📌 Summary
- Name: Erton Carlos Köhler
- Role: 21st President of the Seventh-day Adventist General Conference
- Background: Brazilian pastor, youth leader, division president, and GC executive secretary
- Key Values: Unity, mission, leadership development, and global evangelism
- Significance: First South American to lead the world church
As the new president, Köhler is expected to guide the Adventist Church with humility, cultural awareness, and a strong focus on fulfilling its global mission. His leadership begins at a time of both opportunity and challenge, as the church continues to grow and respond to a rapidly changing world.
