The Institute of Mission Studies at Friedensau Adventist University carries forward a vision that originated with the European Institute for Mission at Newbold College in the 1990s. In Germany, earlier forerunners include the Institute for Community Development and World Mission (which later became the Institute for Integrated Child, Youth, and Adult Work) and the Central Office for Evangelism and Community Development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Germany.

Named after Arthur G. Daniells, the tenth president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, the institute embraces his pioneering spirit and missional vision. Daniells significantly shaped the Adventist Church’s global mission during his tenure by emphasizing the training, preparation, strategic planning, recruitment, and effectiveness of missionary service. Just one year into his leadership, the number of missionaries increased tenfold—highlighting his deep commitment to sending and equipping workers for the gospel.

The Arthur Daniells Institute of Mission Studies – Interdisciplinary Institute for Theological and Social Science Research in Community Development and Mission was officially founded on August 18, 2009 by Winfried Noack, László Szabó, and Stefan Höschele.

Our Mission and Goals

• Research

  To advance interdisciplinary mission research and the long-standing publication tradition at Friedensau, with a focus on church development, integrated ministry to children, youth, and adults, and missiological regional studies (particularly in Eastern Europe and Africa).

• Cooperation

  To engage in scholarly collaboration with researchers at other universities and mission-focused institutions.

• Information

  To organize academic conferences and symposia on current topics in missiology and church development.

• Sharing

  To contribute to the educational offerings at Friedensau Adventist University and beyond, including teaching, curriculum development, and new academic programs.

• Support

  To serve the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Germany, the Inter-European Division, and beyond through training, consulting, and resources for those working in church development and mission projects.

• Networking

  To develop a Mission Studies Information Center and foster a global network of mission scholars and practitioners within the Adventist Church.

• Promotion

  To encourage and support mission research internationally, especially in Europe and Africa.

• Training

  To provide training and continuing education in small group ministry, a key area of discipleship and community growth in secular and post-Christian contexts.

More about the history of the university: https://www.thh-friedensau.de/en/about/history/