So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (Ephesians 2:19–22 ESV).
In the 2023 Institutional Workers’ Survey, non-educational employees were asked what they liked about working for a Church organization. This question was open-ended.
Non-educational employees working in Adventist healthcare, media, welfare, publishing, and the food industries had many answers in common. Globally, one of the most common answers was that they appreciated being a part of the Church’s mission, either through the work itself, or by participating in public evangelism, community outreach, and Bible studies. Answers included supporting the gospel work, a sense of belonging to the mission, helping in the mission, being a faithful witness, and “the way I behave with the people I come across.” Examples of activities included preaching salvation, using social media, sharing literature and conducting seminars, helping the needy in the community, and both hospital and house visitation.
Another common thread across all divisions was that employees expressed appreciation for the atmosphere, the spiritual support, and being able to work with like-minded people, with common goals, in an environment where “the whole process of work is dedicated to God.” Workers also appreciated feeling comfortable in expressing their love for God in the workplace and being able to take Sabbaths off.
Respondents also shared about the activities they did on their own time. These included volunteering in local churches, counseling, being involved in Pathfinders’ programs, hospitality, inviting people to church, and giving tithes and offerings.
Ellen White wrote, “God could have reached His object in saving sinners without the aid of man; but He knew that man could not be happy without acting a part in the great work in which he would be cultivating self-denial and benevolence” (Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 382).
Adventists working in Church organizations around the world know that it is a privilege and a blessing to be an active part of the “whole structure” of the Church’s mission to take Christ’s message to the entire world. Please take a few moments to pray for their strength and for God to help them continue to keep Christ’s Commission their focus in all they do.
You can access the full report here.
Created in collaboration with the Institute of Church Ministry.
Published by ASTR on 6/30/2026.
