The Government of Aruba, in collaboration with Monumentenbureau, has officially recognized the building of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on Bernhardstraat as a National Monument during a special ceremony on April 14, 2026.
Originally dedicated on July 11, 1936, this building is one of the oldest Adventist temples on the island and possesses important historical, cultural, and spiritual value. The recognition resulted from a formal request presented by the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Shete Day in Aruba.
Prime Minister Mike Eman, who was present at the ceremony, highlighted the importance of preserving structures that represent faith, community, and national identity. He noted that restoring buildings can also inspire societal renewal, strengthening values and purposes.
Detailed historical review highlighted how the Seventh-day Adventist message arrived in Aruba in the 1920s through missionary efforts, with the construction of the temple completed in 1936. The church has served as a place of worship, school, and community center, impacting generations of residents.
Pastor Calix Ashby, financial director of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s regional office, emphasized that the restoration process, which began more than two years ago, underscores the importance of preserving identity and historical value. President Virgil Sams underscored the spiritual value of the temple as a place where generations find hope, faith, and purpose.
The ceremony concluded with the official placement of a monument protection sign on the building and the signing of an agreement that formalizes the restoration process.
