24 March 2026

District Apostle Arnaud Martig visited Colombo, Sri Lanka in January 2026 for the Asian Apostles Meeting. The visit brought together District Apostle Arnaud Martig, Apostle Jonathan Sturm (Canada), Lead Apostle Prabhakar Beergi (India), Apostle Fred Marihal (India) who is in charge for Sri Lanka, and other Apostles from across Asia — including India, Pakistan, and Cambodia. It encompassed spiritual nourishment for our members and ministers, along with administrative and strategic planning for the future of the churches in Asian subcontinent.

After his arrival on January 17, 2026, the District Apostle conducted the Divine Service in Mattakkuliya, Colombo, on Sunday, January 18. In the venue, our children welcomed the District Apostle and the delegates with action songs.

Prior to the service, the District Apostle and other Apostles visited the exhibition by our Sunday school students showcasing the artworks and models based on Bible stories. This vibrant collection also had artworks inspired by this year's motto, "Don't be afraid, just believe."

The District Apostle based his sermon on the Bible verse from Mark 5:36.

"As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.”"

While encouraging us to trust in God, the District Apostle also called us to stay steadfast in our faith even when the future seems uncertain. After the service, the District Apostle and the Apostles greeted the members personally, wishing them a safe journey back home. Over 400 brothers and sisters, who came together to celebrate fellowship with God, returned home strengthened and encouraged in their faith.

Later that day, the District Apostle met with the lead ministers and administrators from Sri Lanka. They went over the current status of the Church's work and the prospects of outreach and growth in the future. The District Apostle also discussed about the assessment of doctrinal and spiritual knowledge among ministers.

On the following Monday and Tuesday, the Asian Apostles Meeting took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The District Apostle began the meeting by reminding the Apostles of the commissions entrusted to him by the Chief Apostle, with a special emphasis on preparing believers for the imminent return of Christ and strengthening pastoral care. The following sessions focused on strategic plans for 2026, team-building activities, etc. The Apostles also presented detailed reports on their respective countries.

Apostle Sturm led an interactive session on this year's motto, “Don’t be afraid, just believe.” Using David and Goliath as an example, the participants identified their current-day challenges and came up with practical steps to address them. This session inspired them to apply the motto in their personal lives and ministry. The Asian Apostles meeting provided the Apostles and ministers with greater insights into their pastoral responsibilities and future directions, preparing them to lead their congregations with renewed strength and purpose.

The District Apostle's visit to Sri Lanka was a perfect amalgamation of spiritual enrichment, administrative evaluation, and strategic planning for the future of the churches in the Asian subcontinent. Though his visit ended, the message “Don’t be afraid, just believe” continues to echo, motivating us to look ahead with faith and confidence in God's love and guidance.