CCC Delegate Shares Reflections from the 2025 General Conference Session

There is an Exhibit Hall during the GC Session where ministries from around the world can share their resources and information about the work that God has called them too. This is a fun place to visit. The global mission of the Church is highlighted, and you are bound to run into friends and colleagues from different places that you haven't seen in awhile. It turns out to be not only an exhibit hall, but a reunion hall too. You also get loaded up with free resources from the variety of ministries that are present. At one of the exhibits we tried on native Korean clothing.

Representing the Central California Conference (CCC) at the 2025 General Conference (GC) Session for the first time was both a humbling and deeply impactful experience for Pastor Hodet. Held every five years, the GC Session is the highest decision-making body of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church, bringing together voting representatives from around the globe.

“It was an honor to serve in such a capacity,” Pastor Hodet reflected. “Knowing that I was one of a small number of voices entrusted to vote on matters shaping the future of God’s movement filled me with both gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility.”

Walking into the convention hall, Pastor Hodet was immediately struck by the diversity of God’s family—thousands of leaders and members from every continent except Antarctica, speaking numerous languages and representing countless cultures. “Despite our differences, we were united in seeking God’s will for His Church,” he shared. “Tears of joy filled my heart as I thought, ‘These are God’s people, my people. I’m so glad my family and I are part of this worldwide family.’”

Spiritual Renewal and Memorable Moments

The week’s events left a lasting spiritual imprint. Worship services and devotional messages, especially the Sabbath sermon delivered by newly elected General Conference President Elder Erton Köhler, stood out. His message focused on the hope of Christ’s soon return and the Church’s mission to proclaim it in a unifying, Christ-centered way. Elder Köhler challenged listeners to measure growth not by Attendance, Buildings, or Cash—but by Disciple-Making, reminding them that ministry is ultimately about people.

Pastor Hodet also recounted a powerful example of humility and leadership from outgoing GC President Elder Ted Wilson. In addressing a controversy over the Church’s official “Statement on Immunization,” Elder Wilson acknowledged a discrepancy between the voted statement and what had been posted online. “In such a sensitive moment, he remained calm and gracious, offering a humble apology and reaffirming our commitment to the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy,” Pastor Hodet said. “That poise will stay with me.”

"One of the most enjoyable experiences is reconnecting with people that you have partnered in ministry with in the past. One of the first couples that we ran into as we made our way to the auditorium on the first day was the president (and his wife) of the Eastern Highlands - Simbu Mission in Papua New Guinea. I worked with them while doing an evangelistic series in one of the villages of their territory last year." Pastor Hodet

Lessons from the Session

Beyond the spiritual inspiration, the GC Session offered valuable lessons in leadership and collaboration.

1. The power of listening: “When we truly listen, we better understand differing perspectives and know whether or not we need to speak—and if we do, what to say.”

2. Strength in unity: Pastor Hodet affirmed that the Church is “stronger together,” gaining depth and wisdom through the sharing of diverse perspectives.

3. Value of due process: Even when procedures feel tedious, the patience to follow them through can yield better, more thoughtful outcomes than rushing to conclusions.

While some controversial items arose, the chairperson’s willingness to consider sending them to the steering committee for review fostered confidence in leadership. “It showed that the concerns of the body were taken seriously,” Pastor Hodet noted.

Representing the Central California Conference

In both official meetings and casual interactions, Pastor Hodet sought to represent CCC’s unique and diverse identity with warmth and positivity. Mealtimes and breaks became opportunities to connect with fellow believers from across the globe, leading to what he described as several “divine appointments.”

“It was an honor to have voice and vote on issues that will shape God’s work in our territory,” he said. “I wanted every interaction to reflect the spirit of our amazing and growing Conference.”

Looking Ahead

Returning from the Session, Pastor Hodet is eager to align with Elder Köhler’s vision for the global Church—being “grounded in the Bible and focused on the mission.” He hopes to inspire others locally to embrace a Bible-based lifestyle and to see the joy and fulfillment in sharing Christ’s love.

To those who could not attend, Pastor Hodet offers this encouragement: “The GC Session reminded us that God is still on the throne. He is leading His Church, and unity in our God-given diversity is achievable. Every one of us has a part to play through the Spirit’s power in reaching the world.” He also encourages members to revisit Session recordings and be inspired by stories of God’s work across the globe.