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RECORDOctober 1, 2005 In this issue Australian youth involved in CQ CD
ADRA helps community house
Unity and mission
Pastor Jan Paulsen and his wife, Kari (centre), taking part in one of the “Let’s talk” recording sessions with young people from around the South Pacific Division. South Pacific youth question GC president WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES resident of the Seventh-day do you want from your church leaders?” Adventist Church, Pastor Jan A second “Let’s talk” recording session Paulsen, took time to discuss a vari- also took place earlier in the day, consisting ety of topics with young people of the of an Avondale College student audience, PSouth Pacific Division on September 5. and will go to air on Hope Channel on “Let’s talk” . . . South Pacific was filmed November 21. Pastor Paulsen was pleased at Adventist Media, Wahroonga, NSW, with the productions. “These were good and broadcast live on Hope Channel. sessions,” he says. “It was different to the Totally unscripted, Pastor Paulsen gave others. There was more interaction among on-the-spot answers to issues such as why the participants.” Fiji’s record women are not being ordained, online Both sessions were hosted by Andrew business and the Sabbath, living “in sin” Robartson, community relations officer for before baptism and worship styles and the Central Coast Adventist School, NSW, Pathfinder use of drums in church. and the host of the 2002 live REZ10 broad- Participants also had the opportunity to casts. “I think it’s great that the conversa- ask Pastor Paulsen’s wife, Kari, questions tion has been opened,” says Mr Robartson. before the session was wrapped up with “It’s a gutsy move.”—Scott Wegener camporee Pastor Paulsen asking participants, “What More @ www.letstalk.adventist.org
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editorial Knowing where we came from makes our existence more meaningful. Past, present, future
E’RE INUNDATED WITH QUIZ We want to know our roots. Knowing was fascinating, and my interest was kin- shows. They’re all over TV, where we came from makes our existence dled. Now I want to know more. On my even the ABC. Melbourne, at more meaningful. That’s one reason why browser I bookmarked the Adventist least, has a nightly 20 questions we in the Antipodes, with only a derivative Heritage Ministry** web site. It cares for Wradio quiz. The winner gets a CD from culture, perform the obligatory pilgrimage church-related historical sites in the US, some obscure artist. For answering the to London once in our lifetimes. And it’s which I’m now determined to visit. The sites same questions on Channel 9’s Who Wants my guess that this is why the second and include the Battle Creek village and homes to Be a Millionaire?, well, you would be a third generations seek their ancestral roots. of Hiram Edson and William Miller. millionaire. Of them all, I prefer One of the good things about my job is Ignorance is not bliss. So much of who Millionaire, because you know the answer that I am literally close to history. Right out- and what we are as a denomination was is in there, and you have a one-in-four side my office door I’m reminded of it daily, determined by its history, its roots in chance of getting it right. as the Signs Publishing Company’s her- American Methodism, for example, and In fact, I could have won the British mil- itage display—an old press, the lead type and our present attitudes and future actions are lion-pound variant—the one where the galleys, old cameras and photographs, books influenced by that. Not surprising, then, ex-guardsman cheated his way to the prize. and magazines—is housed there. Spending that the Adventist Heritage Ministry’s Everyone knows a “google” is 10100—the a bit of time browsing gives insight into how slogan is, “The past with a future.” one-million-pound question. (All of those the church was established in this country It’s a cliché these days, but true never- zeros were a big hint.) It brings satisfaction through the eyes of one insitution, and helps theless, that statement by Ellen G White knowing you know ahead of a contestant, develop an interest in it. that “we having nothing to fear for the which is the appeal of quiz shows. Because it owes so much to literature future, except as we shall forget the way the So here, for your pleasure, and there’s no work, I’ve come to appreciate the central Lord has led us, and His teaching in our million-dollar prize, is an Adventist history place of our publishing house, the books past history” (Life Sketches, page 196). question: Which of the following came to and magazines it produces, and those who While in this passage Ellen White is Australia as the first missionary? (a) John distribute them. speaking personally, telling of her life with Corliss (b) Mendel Israel (c) Henry Scott (d) But how much about our church’s past James, her husband, reviewing their work William Arnold?* do you know? (Have you phoned a friend together, it isn’t unfair to apply it to our History used to be taught as lists of facts yet?) Are you interested in it? Do you see it own lives and church. to be memorised, but it’s really much more as irrelevant to the contemporary scene? But if you’re going to live this statement, than that—it’s the whys and wherefores, the Recently I was required to produce a you have to know what our history is. It’s what could have been, and impact of those church historical piece for an event that led my purpose to encourage members to study facts on society that make it interesting, me to examine our old publications, dating it a little more deeply. especially when it’s rounded out with anec- from when the church was first planted in dotes of real people who made a difference. Australia, which piqued my interest in *Answer: (a), (b), (c) and (d)—they arrived together in 1885, aboard the same ship. As we get older, history becomes more church history. I reviewed many old copies **http://adventistheritage.org important and interesting to us. I know this of RECORD and Bible Echo from different from my days as a teacher, trying to teach it, eras, discovering much of interest along the and before that, as a disinterested student. way. My short journey through the annals Lee Dunstan
OFFICIAL PAPER of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacific Division Seventh-day Senior assistant editor Lee Dunstan 3485 Warburton Highway Adventist Church Editorial assistant Adele Nash Warburton, Vic 3799, Australia ACN 000 003 930 Editorial assistant Scott Wegener Phone: (03) 5966 9111 Fax: (03) 5966 9019 www.adventist.org.au Copyeditor Graeme Brown Email Letters: [email protected] Editorial secretary Meryl McDonald-Gough Email Newsfront: [email protected] Vol 109 No 38 Layout Jason Piez Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Cover: Adventist Media Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacific Division mailed within Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. Other prices on www.record.net.au application. Printed weekly.
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news Signs and Edge magazines receive ARPA awards Mr Winfield’s illustration (pictured, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA right) was part of a prophecy special edi- igns and Edge magazines received tion in the July 2004 issue. awards for artwork and design at “This isn’t the first award Shane has the Australian Religious Press received for his innovative artistry in Shane Winfield’s award-winning illustration Association (ARPA) annual general Signs, and given the talent and creativity for the Signs, which was part of a prophecy meetingS in Melbourne, on September 10. special in the magazine. Signs of the Times was awarded “Best credit to Shane, but to be ahead of Leunig, illustration” for a graphic by Signs designer arguably the country’s best-known artist— Shane Winfield, who pipped recognised that’s a real achievement! As for The Edge, Melbourne Age cartoonist, Michael likewise. It’s up there with the best.” Leunig, who had Former editor of the The Edge, Kellie illustrated a fea- Hancock, says, “It’s great to see The Edge ture in The being recognised by industry peers. Melbourne Creating that cover concept was a team Anglican. effort. We borrowed a Barbie [doll] for the Receiving a afternoon and my desk became the studio “Highly com- for the photo shoot. Nathan Brown helped mended” run- strategically position Barbie in the mouse ner-up award trap while I took photos. Then Kathy [a was an Edge Editors Lee Dunstan (left) and Nathan Brown Signs designer] added the finishing cover (pictured, represented Signs’s stable of magazines— touches with her great designer style. left) featuring RECORD, Edge and Signs—at the ARPA “Although the topic may have been the issue of porn- Awards night. confronting for some, my aim was to The cover that won The Edge ography, de- he brings to it, it won’t be his last,” says create a cover that got people’s attention in magazine a “Highly signed by former Lee Dunstan, Signs’s senior assistant editor. a slightly cheeky way. The response we commended” award for best Edge editor “The look of the magazine is always had to that issue suggests we were on the cover. Kellie Hancock. commented on positively, and that’s all right track.”—RECORD staff
For the first time in more than City can be found at the AAP church, Qld, have a post about 100 years a new church has been Theatre, on the corner of Jamison them on the ABC-TV’s Enough planted in Sydney’s CBD. Funded and George Streets.—Intrasyd rope web site. When three clergy- by Global Mission, the Hope for men, guests on the show, were Big Cities Offering and a major A traditional Sri Lankan water asked how many people Jesus contribution from the Greater system stood tall while a nearby jet raised from the dead, they didn’t Sydney Conference, the Fountain engine creation roared at Gilson know the answer. When asked in the City started on May 21. Led College’s second science fair. the same question in their by Pastor Gary Kent, and with the Sponsored by Australand’s Water- Maroochydore junior–teen help of a team of 18, the weekly vale Estate, the fair showcased proj- Sabbath school, all the children Sabbath service has an attendance ects from students in different year knew the answer—three—and of some 70 people. Seventeen levels, with 12 students awarded who they were. One child sug- Bible studies are being given, and cash prizes. Among the judges gested four—because Jesus 50 contacts are receiving Bible- were the mayor of Brimbank, Peter “We had big doubts if we would be raised Himself. Moral of the story: study videos. An estimated 200 Howren, and principal Mark finished in time. I’m glad that it’s “If you give our kids enough rope, homes in the inner-city region now Vodell. Andrew Claydon, who won over.”—Michelle Mead they’ll show you they know the have regular contact with Seventh- the first prize for creating a model Bible better than many clergy.”— day Adventists. Fountain in the of a working beach (pictured), says, The teens at Maroochydore Phil Ward
DAYS AND OFFERINGS: OCTOBER 8—ADRA APPEAL SUPPORT OFFERING
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news “No apologies”for Nunawading students for homework. In the MELBOURNE, VICTORIA NCC program, parents he Year 9 students of Nunawading responded positively to Christian College (NCC), Mel- this aspect, comment- bourne, have been involved in “No ing on the improved apologies,” a character-based, values- communication they Tdriven program developed by Focus on are experiencing with the Family ministries, as part of their with their children, par- Spiritual and Personal Development classes. ticularly regarding sex The program teaches the consequences of education. high-risk behaviours, such as indulging in The NCC program premarital sex, drugs and alcohol; the impli- was as a combined ini- cations these choices may have on future tiative with Vicyouth careers, partner and life; and the myth of and Seventh-day “safe sex.” Adventist Schools Students and teachers from Nunawading Christian College, which “We are constantly looking for new ways Victoria, with classes run ran “No apologies,” a program developed by Focus on the Family ministries as part of its spiritual and personal development course. to engage our students in developing char- by trained facilitators acter and in strengthening their resiliency,” Rebecca Auriant and Tania Calais. against sexual peer pressure.” says NCC principal Jacques Calais. “We Mrs Calais, who helped to organise the “The great thing about this course is want to see our students become all God program, says, “Overall, the program at that it is designed to be flexible: it can be run intends them to be, and leading a pure and NCC was a huge success, with all students as a concentrated 12- to 15-hour seminar- healthy lifestyle is a key element.” participating in the complete program sign- type program or as part of a secondary With a focus on encouraging the students ing pledge cards on the final day, commit- school’s Bible, personal development and to look at God’s plan for purity, the program ting to abstinence until marriage. Most stu- life skills curriculum. It can be run at a is presented in an activity-based way. Topics dents stated that along with their parents, school or for a church youth group,” says explored include healthy relationships, goal family, teachers and friends, God would be Mrs Calais. “Plus, it is true to our Adventist setting, character development, conse- their source of strength in seeing through lifestyle principles.”—RECORD staff quences of premarital sex, HIV/AIDS and their commitment.” If you wish to have this program run at the importance of marriage. Some of the student responses included: your school or church, or if you are inter- A feature of the program is that it con- “This program meant a lot to me—I ested in becoming a trained facilitator, nects with the parents, involving them in learned a lot”; “It’s made a difference in my contact Tania Calais on +61 3 9259 2310 or partnership by having discussion questions life”; and, “I learned that you can stand up Rebecca Auriant on +61 3 9259 2157.
Food brochure, Fruity Bix bars and hungry” bus ministry operating invitations to enrol in two different from Rosny church, Tas, at a recep- Bible courses were distributed. At tion given by the Hobart City the end of the two days more than Council Lord Mayor; Chantelle 320 people had taken the assess- Lamplough was the first civilian to ment and 135 signed up for health receive an ANZAC Award from the Hamilton, a regional centre of courses.—Lynette Tung Gwabegar Veteran Ex-services Club almost 10,000 in western Victoria, for her efforts in STORM Co min- has an annual Sheepvention—an Recent awardees within the istry.—Katy Bidmead, Tasda the night. Dianne Roberts, recently agricultural show of sorts—attract- Adventist Church are: Jennifer News, Ray Boyce returned from overseas, told stories ing thousands of visitors over two Plahn, Rueben Richardson and and experiences of her time help- days. This year the Hamilton church Robin May, students from Warwick church, Qld, had nine ing at a homeless shelter in ran a publicity booth offering a Northpine Christian College, who of its youth group brave cold and London. All participants appreci- computerised health age aassess- were awarded the Duke of Edin- windy weather in a sleep-out to ated anew the comforts and of ment and also health courses from burgh Award Scheme’s highest experience what it would be like to living in a warm home.“We don’t the Adventist Discovery Centre. award—the Gold Award; Rhona be homeless. Cardboard boxes know how lucky we are,”said Jade Some 350 show bags containing a Walker and Liz Forward received were collected and uniquely fash- McGrady, one of the nine children Signs magazine, a copy of the Good public thanks for the “Feed the ioned into individual shelters for involved. “I don’t think I’ve ever
IS YOUR CHURCH DOING SOMETHING INNOVATIVE OR INSPIRING? EMAIL US — [email protected]
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news Adventists work Australian youth involved together to help in CQ album hurricane victims istry into other media. Because we share an WARBURTON, VICTORIA appreciation for a wide variety of music, we SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND, USA n album consisting of Adventist- decided on producing a CD sampler fea- s relief in the hurricane and flood- originated music and spoken word turing Adventist musicians from around damaged Gulf Coast region of the has been produced by the Collegiate the world. It just seemed to be such a per- southern United States continues, Quaterly (CQ) Bible-study guide. A fect extension of the spirit of CQ itself— Seventh-day Adventists are also Anumber of artists and speakers on the creation, participation and inspiration.” Asurveying churches and schools that have album, KaleidosCQpe, The album took some been damaged by Hurricane Katrina. are Australians, includ- six months to compile Satellite photos have revealed varying ing four musical contri- and produce, and fea- levels of flood and wind damage caused to butions. tures 16 artists. Adventist churches and schools in and CQ editor Gary The pastor of Mount near New Orleans. Swanson says, “I liked Colah church in Sydney However, Adventists from across the the idea right off. It and chaplain at Sydney USA have been working hard to help sounded like something Adventist College, Jean- those in the areas affected by the hurricane. the CQ would do.” Pierre Martinez, was Students from Southern Adventist Falvo Fowler, who one of the people who University in Collegedale, Tennessee, are works in the Office of had a “spoken word” actively involved in relief efforts in Mission Awareness at segment on the Mississippi and other areas. A number of the General Conference, The KaleidosCQpe CD. KaleidosCQpe album. other Adventist schools and colleges are came up with the idea “It was an awesome also involved in raising funds for victims of for a CQ album to showcase Adventist opportunity to contribute to a worldwide the hurricane or sending volunteers to the musicians and said it was The Edge maga- family—a real privilege,” he says. “I’m area to help with the clean-up. Adventist zine that got him looking into what youth in thrilled with the album’s sound, because it’s churches throughout the United States are the South Pacific Division were doing. much more representative of our world also offering help to as many as possible. “That, and conversations with my church family and there’s something for Media reports indicate that it will be at Australian boss, had me looking into the everyone.”—Adele Nash least early to mid-October before water is Adventist music scene. More @ http://cq.adventist.org significantly drained from the city of New “I was talking with Gary Swanson about To be in the running to win a copy of Orleans.—ANN staff ways in which CQ could expand its min- the CD, visit
slept so badly in all my life.”— angs and teaching visitors how to left) and his son, Espen (second Mary Fedorow throw them. He also draws a from right), were recently baptised crowd by standing on the roof of in a cold lake in Norway. Although Jim and Edel Stirling have been his trailer playing the bagpipes, a graduate nurse of Sydney establishing “Stirling Station” as a digeridoo or guitar and singing Adventist Hospital, Jim’s conver- little piece of Australia in Norway. his compositions of Christian sion occurred only this year.— It is also a centre where guests songs or those of his friend John Mike Brownhill only educational institution out of come for health treatments, spiri- Williamson. Australian-born Jim More @ www.stirling.no 30 other organisations honoured tual education and woodworking married Edel, a Norwegian, and at the ceremony that was broad- classes. Its lodge, which is used for has lived in Norway for 17 years. At a ceremony on August 29 at cast live on national television. Sabbath services, has grass grow- Mr Stirling (pictured, second from Government House, Bangkok, Mis- Mission College actively supports ing on the roof, which is grazed son College was honoured with the government’s initiative to by a goat. Among the farm’s resi- one of the Thai Government’s most make Thailand an educational hub dents are a sulphur-crested cock- prestigious awards, the 2005 for the South-East Asian region. It atoo and a dozen emus bred on Prime Minister’s Export Award, for draws students from 36 countries, the farm. Mr Stirling earns a living being an outstanding higher edu- with almost half of the 972 student by making Australian leather hats, cation provider to international body coming from outside Thai- oilskin coats, crafting boomer- students. Mission College was the land.—Julie Cook
RENEW YOUR SIGNS MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION @ WWW.SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU/SUBSCRIPTIONS
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news Avondale homecomers challenged to focus on “big picture”faith The Avondale Alumni Association held COORANBONG, NEW SOUTH WALES a “Back to Avondale” festival the follow- ustralia’s leading panoramic pho- ing day, sharing the Lake Macquarie tographer captivated Avondale campus with the local community. The College homecomers during a Cooranbong Community Centre and two-hour concert in the Chan Sydney Adventist Hospital handed out AShun Auditorium on Avondale’s Lake free merchandise at the festival, and the Macquarie campus on August 27. Avondale Acro-Masters held watchers in Ken Duncan, who refers to himself as awe as they performed gymnastic routines. “an average photographer with a great Athol Bazely received the association’s God,” shared images, stories and sounds Outstanding Alumni Award for 2005 from his personal collection. Among the during the Sabbath worship service in images were stills from his book, America the College church. Wide: In God we trust, and the Mel Gibson Alumni president Pastor Calvyn film, The Passion of the Christ. Mr Duncan Townend said the choice of Mr Bazely as was a set photographer for the film. the recipient recognised the contribution Mr Duncan, who once suffered from of those not employed by the church to the Harry Neale agoraphobia, said many people are afraid “finishing of the work.” Australian landscape photographer Ken Duncan shares his images and testimony of leaving their safe place. “I wouldn’t be Mr Bazely returned to his family’s dairy during the Avondale Homecoming concert. able to show you these beautiful images if farm in Monto, Queensland, after gradu- I were unable to leave my lounge room. ating from accountancy at Avondale in Homecoming honour years also honoured God is interested in giving us things 1962. His parents hosted worship services a class representative. Receiving citations beyond our ability, so we can rely on Him in their home until the local Seventh-day were Olive White (1935), Ian Wilmoth more. It is the trust in Him that gives you Adventist congregation purchased a (1945), Lionel and Doreen Smith (1955), strength for the troubled times ahead.” vacant building for a meeting place. Mr Ken Boehm (1965), Adrian Craig (1975), Mr Duncan shared stories of grizzly Bazely has held many offices, including Sharon Duncan (1980), Graeme bears, broken bicycles and a new-found that of head elder and often preacher, at Frauenfelder (1985) and Wayne Krause faith in God, and following the concert the church since. (1995).—Brenton Stacey/Makushla stayed on to talk and autograph his books. The graduation classes for each of the Kontaxis
Franklin Graham, president and aid of a walker. Graham, who has In a recent survey of clergy, 34 per “Jesus knows how to hold ‘em. No- chief executive officer of the Billy prostate cancer and Parkinson’s cent of pastors feel Billy Graham one can take you out of his hand” Graham Evangelistic Association, disease, spoke in a strong voice but had the greatest influence on are on sale. The messages are told a gathering at the ground- quipped that his hearing had American churches today, and an designed to persuade nonbelievers breaking of the Billy Graham gotten so bad that he needed an even larger group—58 per cent— against gambling with their souls, Library how reluctant his father interpreter to speak with his wife, see him as the most trusted but might also be used to help a was to have a “monument built to Ruth, who is almost totally blind spokesperson for Christianity.— believing gambler kick the habit.— himself.”Franklin Graham assured and unable to walk. The 3700- Jody Brown, AgapePress; Michael Ireland, Assist News him that the library will be a “living square-metre library, to be free to Baptist Press Service crusade”meant for evangelism, to the public, should be completed in illustrate how God can work 2007. Franklin Graham says it is a “Faith chips”—actual colourful, through anyone. Earlier this year, fitting tribute to the humility of his round poker chips—have been Billy Graham announced his June father’s life—the story of a farm created to carry around as a per- crusade in New York City would be boy who rose to world promi- sonal reminder of God and as a his last, passing the mantle to his nence, eventually sharing the mini tract to hand out. Five designs son. An extended standing ovation gospel with 210 million people in with messages, such as: “Don’t greeted the 86-year-old as he 185 countries and hundreds of mil- gamble with eternity. Accept Jesus stepped onto the stage with the lions more through his broadcasts. before you cash in your chips,”and
WERE ELLEN WHITE’S MEDICAL WRITINGS REALLY INSPIRED? FIND OUT @ WWW.ACQUIREDORINSPIRED.COM
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news ADRA helps Kamahl performs for Coronella community house Retirement Village fundraiser in Wagga Wagga NUNAWADING, VICTORIA n the Monday afternoon of August 15, well-known singer Kamahl sang WAGGA WAGGA, NEW SOUTH WALES at the Karralyka Centre, East he Adventist Development and Ringwood, to raise funds for the Relief Agency (ADRA) has donated OVictorian Conference’s Coronella Retire- $A12,000 to help set up an employ- ment Village in Nunawading, Victoria. ment unit of Sunflower House, “This was a very special occasion for the TWagga Wagga, NSW, which provides residents who were able to get along to the assistance and services for people suffering event,” says Ann Gilmore, fundraising and from schizophrenia and other mental- public relations coordinator for the retire- health disorders. ment village. L-R: Pastor Ken Mead, event MC; Ann Gilmore, The pastor of the Wagga Wagga Tickets sales came from both church program coordinator; Kamahl; Robyn Stanley, Adventist church, Nicu Dumbrava, and and community members. Many retire- Coronella chaplain; Ruth Welling, CEO of one of its members, Adrian Laws, applied ment villages and seniors clubs in the east- Adventist Retirement Villages (Victoria); and to ADRA–Australia for financial assis- ern suburbs were invited to attend. The Ruby Gomarsall, a Coronella resident. tance for a refurbishment of the building. money raised will go to a new hostel and personal warmth shone through the songs The cheque from ADRA–Australia was dementia-specific wing. he had chosen and in the giving out of 30 officially handed over on September 10. Kamahl entertained the audience with red carnations to women in the theatre.— “This has been a partnership between his music and personal anecdotes. His Ann Gilmore the local church, the local community and the local TAFE” said Adrian Laws, member of the Wagga Wagga Seventh-day Fiji Mission’s biggest ever local Pathfinder Adventist Church and the TAFE teacher coordinating the project. camporee held “The Mental Health Fellowship com- SIGATOKA VALLEY, FIJI mittee who were behind the project were very pleased with the donation” he added. ore than 2000 Pathfinders A major refurbishment of the 100-year- gathered at Waiyala Seventh- old building is being completed by Wagga day Adventist Primary Wagga TAFE pre-apprenticeship carpen- School in the Sigatoka Valley, try and joinery students. MFiji, from August 21 to August 28, for a Additional funding has come from camporee local charities, such as Rotary, and local The Fiji Minister of Youth and Sport, suppliers have donated much of the the Honourable Isireli Leweniqila, was A group of Pathfinders and their leaders at a building material needed in the renova- a guest of honour in the opening cere- camporee held at the Waiyala Primary School, Fiji. tion.—Adele Nash mony, and the Fiji Police Band led a march-past. baptised with his family as a result of the The theme of witness by his son, a member of the Labasa the camporee was Pathfinder Club, praised the organisers, “Let Christ lead.” saying, “I haven’t seen anything like this in The devotional my entire life.” program was Meetings were held in the open air, as cared for by there was not enough room in local build- Pastors Kepereli ings to accommodate the Pathfinders. Lawedrau and There is an ongoing need in Fiji for a Wapole Talemai- larger permanent venue to accommodate toga. such events as the camporee and for camp Guest at the Fiji A local prison meetings, and a 22-hectare camp site is Pathfinder camporee Donated material and equipment clutter the officer, Jo Vosani- about to be secured. The Fiji Mission is cur- interior of Sunflower House, Wagga Wagga, was the Minister for NSW, which is being refurbished, in part, Youth and Sport, Isireli bola, who had rently awaiting funding to start the proj- with funds donated by ADRA–Australia. Leweniqila. been recently ect.—Peni Dakua October 1, 2005 7 38 Features.qxd 20/9/05 8:42 AM Page 8
feature Unity and mission BY NATHAN BROWN
FTER SERVING IN THE ROLE FOR world with the rapidly growing church, almost seven years, Dr Jan Paulsen and you have the Western world—very was re-elected as president of the secular, postmodern, whatever term we General Conference at the recent may use. God has a job on His hands to AGeneral Conference session. Dr Paulsen— come across in that kind of environ- together with his wife, Kari—was a special ment as having an attractive option to guest of the recent South Pacific Division offer people who think they have so session in Melbourne. He took the oppor- much. I see here in the South Pacific tunity to talk with RECORD. Division all of these people groups and values together, and that is a very special Congratulations on your recent re-elec- challenge for the church. tion. What does it mean for you personally? Dr Jan Paulsen. I have been doing church administration How can the church meet the very for many years now, both in Europe and at different challenges of rapid growth in whatever the limited may be. As long as the General Conference and I have reached some areas and little growth in others and you are constantly conscious of the fact that a certain stage in my life that it’s not a pro- still remain a unified group? when you walk the path of newness—cre- fessional drive that says, “I have this one There is no easy answer. The challenges ativity—you do not lose your identity along more thing to achieve.” of rapid growth and the challenges of vir- the way, that you do not sacrifice values that Instead, I’m honoured—truly hon- tually no growth are both very real for the are sacred to you, and that in fact you find oured—that the church should have asked church. They’re very different but very yourself being ever so creative but not the me to give leadership in the role I am real. We have to remember that the Lord’s same person or not the same church that doing now and that even at my fairly command to us is not to convert the you started out as and in fact want to be. advanced age in life, that they should feel world—that’s His job—He has just asked they could ask me to carry on a bit longer. us to be witnesses. In the faster growing areas of the world, I think that is an honour. In some places, the fruit of that witness is how is the church keeping up with growth? But there are two sides to it. They can rapid, enthusiastic and almost takes His In most places they are doing very well. ask and I have to respond. My response is breath away, and the church has a job on its Maybe the strongest growth the church has quite simply because I don’t know how I hands to know how to cope with this rapid to deal with you find in Latin America— should say to the Lord, “No, I’ve had response. In other places, there may be 1 per the South American Division and the Inter- enough.” So I do this because I think this is cent, if you can measure the response as American Division. We have a rapidly what He would like me to do. growth, as compared with the rapidly growing church but we also have a very growing. fine infrastructure. At times, it must be a challenging and In one part, the question is how can we In Brazil today, we have 1.25 million wearying responsibility. How do you main- get an adequate infrastructure in place? baptised members and we have a strong tain your motivation? How can we get adequate leadership in higher-education system, a health-care It is a challenging assignment. But it’s not place? How can we get adequate ministry system, the whole infrastructure of pub- a thing where I wake in the morning and trained to take care of the growing respon- lishing, health foods. All that we have his- think, What a dreadful thing that I still have sibility of a church that is in rapid devel- torically identified with as a church, as serv- to carry on with this. I really do find a lot of opment? How can we do that? ices and ministries to a growing church, it’s fulfilment in what I’m doing. I enjoy my The challenge to the other world of there. They are doing it well. work and I have a lot of well-qualified, faith is how can we find a new spark, a new If you have rapid growth, you have a excellent colleagues with whom I share element, something that can say to the tough job to get the infrastructure in place. responsibility. jaded, Western, secular mind, “Hey, God This is true in many parts of Africa. They has got something also for you. Listen to it.” have a big job on their hands. From the You have visited this region a number of General Conference, we are in constant times in your role. What is unique about In meeting the challenge in secular coun- communication with these parts of the Adventism in the South Pacific? tries, how creative can we be? world and are asking ourselves and them, What I find in so many parts of the I don’t think there is a limit on that. I “How can we help you?” world is that you have the developing think creativeness has to be explored to There is particular concern that is impor-
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tant to me in areas of rapid growth and that You have spoken regularly on involving municate that there is a God, He’s the is that the growth does not undo the unity young people in the church and will be only one who owns the future and He has that we have as a church. You know you taping another edition of “Let’s talk” while it securely in His hands. We will go can grow and become so big and think that you are here in the South Pacific Division. through difficult patches but allied with we can carry on on our own, that we don’t How important is involving young people God the future looks good. need anybody else and that is not a healthy in the life of the church? Second, I think fear is also in terms of development. I think God wants this It is very important. There is no future people who look at their own spiritual life church to be one global family; that’s His for a church that doesn’t want to bring its and have anxieties created by what they see model, and that’s what I want to see. younger generations into the heart of the or by what they maybe have failed to thinking and planning of the church. I’m accomplish, maybe they look to God as the Is the church organisation adaptable not talking about being symbolically pres- judge who is scrutinising their daily behav- enough to meet the varied challenges ent at worship; I’m talking about having a iour. There is an element of fear in that. I around the world? place at the table when we begin to think think we need to remember that God has We have to ask ourselves, “Is the struc- and plan strategically. no hostility toward any of us. God is a ture of organisation and of leadership the But we have to also keep in mind that it’s salvific God, driven by love and compas- best we could have for today?” You set up a democratic process. You can appeal, you sion. He’s going to save everyone He can a structure when you are half a million can speak, you can lay out the plan and it put His hand on. members. Is that also going to be sufficient would be affirmed by all—“What a won- when you are 20, 30 or 40 million? It’s an derful idea.” But to accomplish it, you So what is your vision for the Adventist important question to ask. The General have to have the assent and the participa- Church around the world? Conference with the world divisions is tion by the people who are going to make I want the church to be one. The unity of exploring that question today. We’re going the decisions. the church is for me a critically important to have a serious effort this five-year period For example, when you select delegates fact. I will work hard to preach the message at looking at the structures of the church, so to go to the General Conference session, we of unity and address the elements that pos- we don’t get locked into something that is said to the divisions of the world field, itively or negatively impact unity. so inflexible that in fact it isn’t capable of “Keep in mind that you have some youth Second, it is important for the Seventh- encouraging and housing the dynamics of also.” Youth meaning people 30 or below, day Adventist Church to be focused on a growing community. or in the early 30s. Some divisions were able mission. There may be many things with to do better than others. The South Pacific this church that we need to address and to You have made a number of statements Division did quite well. set right. They are best set right in the con- recently about being an inclusive church. Now, we have the General Conference text and setting of mission. By mission, I How can we be an inclusive church and executive committee. I asked the commit- mean to reach out, to be what God wants still stand for the core of who we are? tee to reserve six places for young people, this church to be, not a lodge or a society When you are a global church, you have young professionals, aged between 25 and that lives for itself but a community that is people from all kinds of cultures. They 32, whose only qualification is that they an instrument of God’s salvation acts in think differently, they look different, they are active in their local church, they are history. speak differently, they come with different committed to the church, to the mission So those are my hopes. This is not a battle values. These are not of themselves neces- and to the values of the church, for them that I have to work with people, to sort of sarily anti-Christian or anti-Adventist. We to be brought in to experience the envi- convince them of this. I find with leader- have to acknowledge that everyone is a ronment, the climate and the concerns and ship and I find when I visit churches and child of their place, of their time, of their issues that global leadership address when when I speak, the “Amens” are loud. I culture, and they must not be uprooted we sit together, for example, in Annual sense in the church a great desire, a positive from that to be a Seventh-day Adventist. Council. move to “Yes, let’s hold together.” We are There are a number of core values that bonded in faith, the Spirit is the unifying are fundamental Seventh-day Adventist Fear is common in life today and even one. The Lord’s last prayer to the Father core values that are transportable to any impacts on how we treat each other within was “Hold them together, for they are and all cultures, languages and nations of the church—we fear what is different. Mine.” the world. And we do that actually quite How can the church live above fear? So I sense that and I sense also that the well. Fear is always a personal thing, because church is saying, “Look, we want to finish But wherever you come from—male, what is fear to one person is not to another. our task. We want to be done with this.” female, black, white, whatever—you must I think that society is very unstable and if The church wants to go out and be a wit- be recognised as having an equal place, you only look at what is happening around nessing community. So I feel that there is being of equal value in the church, and you, it is not a reassuring world in which very little headwind and a lot of support. R given the opportunity to share your gifts we live. I think it is important that we are and your resources and your capacity, par- able to meet the public—in our preaching, ticipating in the life of the church. in our teaching—that we are able to com- Nathan Brown is editor of RECORD.
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perspective Ordinary People— Extraordinary God REVIEW BY JULENE DUERKSEN-KAPAO
TEWARDSHIP IS CHOOSING TO LIVE someone almost missed because of being ship of being the hands and feet of God. life as a follower of Jesus, as a tired and not wanting to meet someone It’s not just about money or the “bless- member of the kingdom of God new; the love of a newborn child; sharing ings” we will receive when tithe is dutifully today. That has practical implica- one’s faith under unique circumstances, paid. It is, however, about being faithful Stions for all aspects of our lives” (page v). and many answered prayers are just a few and allowing God to work through jobs, Ordinary People—Extraordinary God takes a of the stories. Through the diversity of 55 people, nature, prayer and many other fresh and diverse look at what stewardship perspectives, this book provides inspiring things. From strokes, to car trouble; really is, what it means to Christians in the and memorable stories that will challenge cheques from unidentified donors, to bat- Seventh-day Adventist Church, and how it your perspective of stewardship and what tered wives; dreams, to Bible in schools; becomes a part of our daily lives. God asks of you. shifting house and selling possessions, to Throughout Scripture, as a reminder of Sharing one’s faith isn’t always easy. cancer, Ordinary People—Extraordinary God what He has done, God asks His followers Robert Granger shares an experience is a fantastic compilation of how awesome to give back. In Leviticus 27:30 one of where his beliefs were pushed to the edge. God is. Nurses, pastors, administrators, these reminders is to give “a tenth of the parents and more, these 55 ordinary people produce of the land, whether grain or provide incredible examples of our extraor- fruit, belongs to the Lord and must be set dinary God. apart to him as holy.”* Compiled and edited by Nathan Brown, Ordinary People—Extraordinary God is a Ordinary People—Extraordinary God shares modern testimony that God still needs and the “real-life stories of faith and commit- uses all we give to Him. South Pacific ment” as experienced by you and me, the Division director of stewardship Dr Erika ordinary people God uses to do His Puni suggests, “Stewardship is about prac- extraordinary work. Pastor Jeffrey Pum tical Christianity and allowing God to be in Lian Pau shares a beautiful testimony and control of our lives daily. It is an expression states, “The more we put our trust in Him, of absolute trust in Him with all that we are we discover the blessings multiply expo- in Christ Jesus, and submitting to His eter- nentially” (page 94). nal rule” (page x). Inspirational, life-changing, and reflec- So it’s not just about tithing? Is there tive, Ordinary People—Extraordinary God more we need to do? Don’t be alarmed, but sheds a generous ray of light on the topic of yes, stewardship is about much more than stewardship putting real faces and stories the monetary 10 per cent we give back to into what traditionally many have viewed God. Ordinary People—Extraordinary God However he was able to answer each ques- as a “money thing.” Regardless of how you breaks stewardship into eight categories: tion intelligently and biblically and con- give back to God, in Ecclesiastes 11: 1 He time, others, creation, talents, finances, life cludes by saying, “I have come to recognise promises, “Give generously, for your gifts choices and opportunities, trials, and shar- that respecting both the individual and will return to you later.” R ing our faith. Fifty-five everyday, ordinary their freedom of choice are keystones in individuals share their perspectives in one sharing our teachings on stewardship” *Bible quotations are from the New Living Translation. of these areas, highlighting stewardship as (page 17). our “love relationship with God” (page Opportunities, both to demonstrate and Ordinary People—Extraordinary God: Real-life sto- ix). talk about our faith, are times of steward- ries of faith and commitment, compiled and edited by Colossians 4:5 says that we should “live ship. Rebecca Koolik states, “Opportunities Nathan Brown, Signs Publishing Company, 2005, paper- wisely among those who are not Christians, are just one of the many ways I believe God back, 134 pages. Available from Adventist Book Centres, price $A14.95; $NZ16.95. and make the most of every opportunity.” knocks on our door” (page 36). Again and Paul had it right and what a great way to again, Ordinary People—Extraordinary God start Ordinary People—Extraordinary God. delves into the opportunities taken to share, Julene Duerksen-Kapao writes from Longburn, New Zealand, and is the The opportunity to meet and pray with experience and grow through the steward- regular book reviewer for The Edge.
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feature Record Roo's kids corner
Hi kids, A tribute Have you ever asked God to show you a sign? Sometimes BY USAIA BARAVI it is hard for our human minds to believeecord without Roo's seeing. God is O MERE MORTALS, AFLY’N’BUILD TEAM MAY APPEAR AN all around uskids and corner cares about ordinary group of “misfits” from everywhere—retirees, a every single one of us. Find schoolboy, a mission pilot, a caretaker, a mother, an engi- out how Gideon tested neer, an electrician, a pest controller, a nurse—the list is God in Judges 6:36-40 Talways colourful. RR I will not even dare to delve into their personal lives: problems, situations, experiences, families, health, wealth—or lack of it. Such a variety of factors are reasons enough not to rendezvous Fill in the Blanks and fly somewhere as a team to build. "Faith means being sure of the things we hope for I have learned otherwise—from Scripture: “Abraham was old, and knowing that something is real even if we do Jacob was insecure, Leah not see it.” was unattractive, Joseph Hebrews 11:1 NCV was abused, Moses stut- tered, Gideon was poor, Spot the difference... Samson was codepen- Try and find the 12 differences dent, Rahab was immoral, David had an
Two of many fly’n’build teams to Fiji—Nandi (above) and Levuka (right) . affair and all kinds of family problems, Elijah was suicidal, Jeremiah Usaia Baravi Usaia Baravi was depressed, Jonah was reluctant, Naomi was a widow, John the Baptist was eccen- tric, Peter was impulsive and hot tempered, Martha worried a lot, the Samaritan woman had several failed marriages, Zacchaeus was unpopular, Thomas had doubts, Paul had poor health, and Timothy was timid”*—all misfits as well. Likewise, a fly’n’build team is a microcosm of God’s people: saved and spirited, serving out of joy and deep gratitude for their Saviour; and, healed and blessed, they in turn want to help and be a blessing to others. The local recipients of fly’n’build gen- erosity, in receiving, are blessed as well—witnessed to and par- ticipating with their brothers and sisters from across the sea, pur- suing not self-centredness but meaning and purpose in serving God as they serve others. That’s Jesus’ church, my church. R
*Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Zondervan, 2002, page 233.
Pastor Usaia Baravi writes from Fiji, where he has served Colour in... both pictures once you have as general secretary of the Fiji Mission. found the differences. Shelli Taylor Taylor, Peta
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cannot see a need to produce a baptismal that our final test as Christians may actually Baptism blue vow that is silent on all of these matters. be more about how we are involved in the We continue to water down our public persecution of others; that is, do we partic- HAROLD GOTTING, NT statements to the point where, if I were to ipate or stand idly by as many suffer, or do I wish to comment on the news report be baptised today, I can avow words that we take a stand to defend the defenceless? “SPD backs alternative baptismal vow” would sit so comfortably as an ecumenical A few recent situations that come to (News, August 27) and ask as to where in baptismal vow that I could worship any- mind are attitudes toward Muslims, the the Bible does it state that one must make where Christianity is espoused. I feel as continuing plight of Aborigines and vows before one is baptised? though our leaders are betraying sacred refugees, the AIDS crisis, and develop- A person must be given Bible studies trusts in order to not offend. Maybe I’ve got ments in Zimbabwe among many others. first, accept the Lord Jesus Christ as their it wrong, but I don’t like what I see. We are certainly living in a time of trouble. own personal Saviour, and then be baptised. The person will then follow the Bible and its I can avow words that would sit so teachings, as a result of the study undertaken before. When Philip baptised the Ethiopian, comfortably as an ecumenical baptismal he first taught him from Scripture and then baptised him (see Acts 8:38-40). There is no vow that I could worship anywhere. mention of tithes and offerings etc. Let’s get back to the Bible, shall we? Poor turn of phrase Take more care BILL GATES, NSW ROB LINDQUIST, SA KEN MARSH, NSW The strength of our church lies in the dis- I am curious to know why in the editorial As an occupational health analyst, I noted tinctive doctrines and in the urgency of its of August 20 (“Finding God”), the writer the cover of the September 10 RECORD message of the Second Coming. The first referred to Christ as “a poor Palestinian included a picture of an individual operat- gives a person a reason to become a preacher in the first century,” especially as ing a pedestal drill while ignoring basic Seventh-day Adventist, as they realise that the term Palestine wasn’t introduced until safety considerations. For example, the oper- they need to come out of spiritual Babylon a later century, by Constantine, I believe. A ator is not wearing eye protection. and see that we’ve been entrusted with Jewish preacher, perhaps, or even Galilean And while I had reason to believe after taking the special message of the three or Nazarean might have been appropriate. seeing the page 4 story that this photo was angels to a doomed world. The second is I feel we move further from the richness not connected to our schools, I believe that obviously closely related, as it emphasises of the church’s Jewish heritage by employ- anyone who failed to look past the cover the nearness of the return of our Lord. ing such statements. could reasonably assume a connection. As I look at my baptismal vows given to Unsafe acts and conditions lead to injury me in 1971, I was proud to state my convic- and incapacity, regardless of what regula- tions concerning the distinctive doctrines we Testing time tions may or may not say. hold. I was proud to avow my allegiance to Many, perhaps most, readers would not the remnant church as the only church to DANIEL BROWN, QLD have noticed anything wrong, but for keep all 10 commandments and to possess As Adventists we have a clearly defined anyone who is safety-aware the picture fails the gift of prophecy. I was—and still am— scenario as to how events will unfold in the to portray a positive image of our Seventh- proud to take the special message assigned to time of the end that includes the persecution day Adventist Church. I believe that in all our church to anyone who will listen. I of the elect for their faith. In the light of that we do, we should seek to always pres- petros recent events, however, I’ve begun to think ent a positive view of the church.
Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent those of the editors or the denomina- tion. Letters should be less than 250 words, and writers must include their name, address and phone number. All letters are edited to meet space and literary requirements, but the author’s original meaning will not be changed. Not all letters received are published. See masthead (page 2) for contact
Peter Yu Peter details.
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Anniversaries Cooper—Carter. David Cooper and Leanne Carter were married on 26.6.05 at Positions vacant Bowden, Cliff and Margaret, of Greystanes, Carey Bay, NSW. NSW, were married on 11.8.45 at St David Coltheart L Principal, Darwin Adventist Primary School—Northern Australian Stephen’s Presbyterian church, Parramatta. Conference. Ready for a sea change? Do you want to make a difference in young They celebrated their 60th anniversary on Lewandowski—Heck. Michael lives? Are you committed to Adventist education? Why not respond to the challenge August 13 with 22 family and friends at their Lewandowski, son of Ed and Eva of both teaching and growing a school in a beautiful tropical city. Darwin Adventist Lewandowski (Brisbane, Qld), and Cara Primary School is looking for a principal in 2006. For further information and appli- Dawn Heck, daughter of Derek and cation contact Mrs Ruth Jackson; phone (07) 4779 3988; or email
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She was also deeply loved by the members he served on 40 fly’n’build projects. The Volunteers! of the Pakuranga church, which she blessed hope gave him courage and peace. attended practically right up to the end. Lawrence Landers Maintenance Supervisor. The NEW Geoffrey Garne, Kayle De Waal Mission College, located in exotic Williams, Dorothy, born 12.7.1900 at Thailand, is the senior higher educa- Opo, Wuliia, born 20.9.1938 at Pukapuka, Blackburn, England; died 24.7.05 in tional institution for the Southeast Cook Islands; died 2.7.05 in Wollongong Sherwin Lodge, Rossmoyne, WA. In Asian Union Mission. We are seeking Hospital, NSW. On 17.9.56 she married 1917 she married John Sutton, who pre- a committed individual who is willing Manulele and the following year they were deceased her in 1939. She later married to volunteer to assist in planning a baptised together into the SDA Church. Ernie Williams, who also predeceased maintenance strategy, assist in its imple- She was predeceased by her daughter, her. She was also predeceased by her mentation, and training personnel, Lilinoa. She is survived by her husband daughter, May Parkin, in 2000. She is commencing asap. Must have a strong (Bellambi); her brothers, Tutu (Fairy survived by her children, Catherine commitment to mission, excellent Meadow), Maroatu (Towradgi), Walemaki Donegan, Gwen Cook and John (Jack) cross-cultural people skills, team lead- (Bellambi), Ayi (NZ); her sister, Akaea Sutton (all of Perth). Dorothy started a ership ability and a good command of (NZ); her children, Paito (Qld), Vakingake branch Sabbath school at Yunderup, English. Accommodation and stipend (Townsville), Urumaru (Bellambi), which later became established as the available. Patakuria (Cook Islands), Eitaro Mandurah SDA church. (Towradgi), Apollo Day (Figtree), Nootai Phil Rhodes For further information: (Inala) and Nawauwi (Bellambi); her 28 Director of Human Resources grandchildren; and two great-grandchil- Woods, Ethyl Jean (nee Scott), born Phone: 66 36 344777 dren. Wuliia was active in her church and 28.11.1923 near Nannup, WA; died 2.8.05 Fax: 66 36 344863 folk were always welcome in her home. in Fremantle Hospital. On 30.10.45 she Email:
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