A Centennial Reflection on the General Conference Working Policy

One hundred years ago, the first edition of the General Conference Working Policy was described by General Conference President William A Spicer as “a little pocket pamphlet.” Voted by the General Conference Executive Committee at the 1926 Annual Council, it contained only 63 pages.

Today, a century later, this volume has grown to 837 pages. Yet its purpose remains unchanged.

As an administrative companion to mission, Working Policy exists not to preserve an institution for its own sake, but to facilitate and advance the mission entrusted to the Church. While methods may adapt and structures may expand, the fundamental role of policy endures: to bring clarity amid uncertainty and consistency amid complexity.

Policy seldom attracts attention—until it is needed. Yet when it is needed, it matters profoundly. It is the scaffolding that supports the ministries of a global movement, enabling the Church to pursue its mission with integrity, accountability, and trust.

Mission says, “Go.” Policy helps us go together.

Mission inspires. Policy guides.

Mission mobilizes. Policy stabilizes.

Mission advances. Policy safeguards.

Together, the Working Policy enables the Seventh-day Adventist Church to move forward—not in confusion, but with conviction; not in disorder, but in harmony; not merely preserving the past, but faithfully fulfilling the mission God has entrusted to His people.

Happy 100th Anniversary to the General Conference Working Policy.

May God continue guiding His Church until Christ’s soon return.

With gratitude for the past, confidence in God’s leading in the present, and hope for the future.

General Conference Secretariat
2026 Annual Council
October 12, 2026