By Blair Reznick
St. Louis, MO – Delegates attending the 62nd General Conference Session at the Dome in America’s Center on July 4, 2025, elected Erton C. Köhler as the new President of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Köhler, who had been serving as the Executive Secretary of the General Conference since 2021, was elected with overwhelming support 1,721 out of 1,909 votes through the Election Buddy electronic voting system. The announcement was met with applause and support from the global church community, reflecting broad consensus on his leadership.
Born in southern Brazil, Köhler has extensive experience in church leadership, having served as the youngest president of the South American Division in 2006. He holds a degree in theology, a master’s in pastoral theology, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree from Andrews University. He is married to Adriene, a nurse, and together they have two children.
During his tenure as Executive Secretary, Köhler launched the “Mission Refocus” initiative, aimed at mobilizing churches and members to engage strategically with mission areas across the world. As President, he is expected to expand this vision, with a renewed focus on disciple-making, strategic alignment with frontline ministry, and enhancing the church’s prophetic voice in today’s dynamic global context.
Köhler is the first South American-born individual to be elected as President of the General Conference, a role traditionally held by leaders from North America. He now steps into leadership over a global church body comprising more than 23 million members across over 200 countries and territories.
His election follows a prayerful and inclusive nomination process by the GC Session’s Nominating Committee, and his confirmation by delegates signals both continuity and a forward-looking direction for the global Adventist Church.
Köhler takes over from Ted N. C. Wilson, who served as President for 15 years. His leadership is anticipated to usher in a phase marked by global unity, spiritual renewal, and a stronger commitment to the church’s worldwide mission.
