“The global Seventh-day Adventist Church joins the people of South Africa and the world in mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela”, wrote Seventh-day Adventist Church President Ted N. C. Wilson in a statement released December, 7, regarding the passing of statesman Nelson Mandela. “His life of forgiveness and reconciliation served as a light in a world that too often lives in the shadow of reprisal, anger and malice. May all reflect on his important efforts to bring people together in peace. What a joy that we can also be part of that process as we are reconciled to God and each other by the grace of Jesus Christ, the Prince of peace. We offer our sympathy and condolences to the Mandela family and the citizens of South Africa.”