Forget not ADRA
Remembering ADRA's Roots: Celebrating 40 Years of ADRA Australia
I have always been fascinated by origins—whether it’s the beginnings of organisations, people, or even the creation of the world as described in Genesis. The aspirations of the founders of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) should significantly influence its future governance and practices. As ADRA celebrates its 40th anniversary in Australia this year, I wanted to explore the issues and events that led to its formation.
Michael Kruger, President of ADRA International, stated that this anniversary is “a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff and partners who have tirelessly provided healing and hope to those in need.” Denison Grellmann, ADRA Australia CEO, expressed gratitude to supporters, volunteers, employees, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church for their contributions over the years.
The roots of ADRA trace back to the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church's benevolence efforts, beginning in 1868 and evolving into a global humanitarian organisation.
The Origin of Benevolence In The Seventh-Day Adventist Church and The Evolution of ADRA Australia
On 13 May 1868, members of the Battle Creek church convened with delegates from the First General Conference session to discuss how to support those in need. This meeting led to the formation of the Adventist Benevolent Association (ABA), aimed at providing relief for widows, orphans, and other individuals in need.
In 1874, the church established the Dorcas and Benevolent Association, composed of women dedicated to providing clothing, food, and services to the needy. The Dorcas Society, named after the disciple from Acts, became a cornerstone of local SDA humanitarian work until World War II. The Good Samaritan Society was founded in 1879 to involve men in these benevolent efforts.
In 1956, the SDA General Conference expanded the concept of service with the establishment of the Seventh-day Adventist Welfare Service (SAWS), which, by 1958, operated in 22 countries. This initiative shifted its focus from immediate relief to long-term community development.
SAWS evolved into ADRA International in 1993, reflecting the SDA global mission and its comprehensive approach to humanitarian work. Today, ADRA operates in over 120 countries, employing more than 5,000 people and 7,000 volunteers. ADRA Australia was formed in 1984 to assist the South Pacific region and now impacts over 600,000 lives annually across the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
The Need For Organised Benevolence
The tragic story of Hannah More highlights the importance of organised benevolence among Sabbath Keepers. An unmarried missionary in Africa, More was abandoned by her supporting organisation after she adopted the Seventh-day Sabbath. She traveled to Battle Creek, hoping to find work, but despite her qualifications, she struggled to secure employment. After only eight days, her funds dwindled, and she left for northern Michigan, where she ultimately passed away during a harsh winter in 1868.
Ellen G. White was outraged by the neglect shown to More and equated it with neglecting Jesus himself. She emphasised the importance of caring for those in need, regardless of their status, urging the church to uphold core Christian values.
Since Ellen G. White’s urgings back in 1868, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has had a history of established organised benevolent organisations, starting with the Adventist Benevolent Association. A membership fee of $10 was established, along with a call for donations to serve humanity with justice, compassion, and love.
As we join together—supporters, volunteers, employees, board members, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church—to reflect on and celebrate ADRA Australia’s achievements over the past 40 years, let us not forget the lessons of our church’s past. May it inspire us to serve humanity and reflect the image of Jesus Christ. Personally, I commit to being the hands and feet of Jesus. Happy 40th Anniversary, ADRA Australia!
