Sabbath, February 7, 2026 General Conference Welfare Department The General Conference Welfare Department aims to bring relief to those suffering in various natural or provoked tragedies. Brethren have lost their property to fires, floods, and even wars and conflicts. When one sees their work destroyed, it is extremely refreshing to have a helping hand outstretched, bringing care and aid. Those who have experienced such disasters often mention the joy of being cared for in a situation of great need and are grateful for the privilege of being part of a true spiritual family. There are also some who live in extreme misery and eat only once a day at the most—yet, even amid their keen suffering, they remain firm in the hope and certainty that Jesus will soon return, and all this will pass. . . . On such the Welfare Department again extends its friendly and caring hand. With the words of Christ: “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40), our work is guided by the understanding that true religion does not consist of words but action in the care of the orphan, the widow, the sick, and refugees. When contributions are received, we quickly distribute them—meeting the most critical needs, especially of our family of faith. Churches destroyed by natural tragedies have been rebuilt; houses destroyed by fire, floods, and other weather disasters, have been rebuilt and refurnished; the sick have been treated; orphans, widows and needy people have received food and basic care. Much has been done, yet we are still far from our ideal, to have no needy among our household of faith, just as at Pentecost! For this, dear brethren, we count on your generous, abundant—but above all, affectionate—offering! As you set aside your First Sabbath Offering, think of how much you have received from God; He will multiply your offering and turn it into blessings, for you, your family and for those to be helped in times of difficulty. “It is through the exercise of this practical love that the churches draw nearer together in Christian unity. Through the love of the brethren, love to God is increased, because He has not forgotten those who were in distress, and thus thank offerings ascend to God for His care.”—Counsels on Stewardship, p. 344. May God bless you greatly! General Conference Welfare Department