by Bert Smit, ADRA-UK executive director

thiopia. Paul Smart, then Will you help ADRA provide clean, couple of hours to collect ADRA country director, was pure water systems? this year, when every driving through a remote part Clean water is a building block of pound counts even more Eof the country. Watching the life. It is a basic requirement of liv- than before? Or partici- emaciated cattle and the people, ing. Access to a plentiful supply of pate in the many other who were barely more than skin and fresh, clean water is fundamental to fundraising activities that bones, caused his heart to ache. health and growth. That’s why ADRA are organised? You can Getting out of his vehicle and has been actively developing water share the blessings of walking into a village, he greeted a resources for more than twenty also bringing water to small boy standing by the path. After years. Water is life, and we know it. those whom God has they had said a few friendly words to In the communities that we serve promised not to forget. one another, Paul asked the boy, around the world, no need is more ADRA is keeping individu- ‘Would you like a drink of water?’ urgent than the need for good, clean als alive and bringing It was a simple offer – nothing water. hope to their communities. that would excite most children. Your financial support will help Your help represents the However, Paul knew that this village us provide water to many more love and support that was experiencing a severe famine families and villages. encourages and enables and water shortages. Families must have water to sur- our staff to carry on their ‘No. No thank you,’ the little boy vive. When there is no clean water in work. replied. ‘Today is not my turn to the village, it becomes the duty of Providing people and drink water.’ young girls to spend their day their communities with Paul was taken aback by this searching for and carrying water to access to clean water is answer. However, he knew what it their homes. Many times they are fundamental to easing the meant. In this drought-devastated forced to walk great distances, bondage of poverty. Please area, children get a drink of water which puts them at risk of physical help this year with the every second day – if they’re lucky. danger and usually closes the door Annual Appeal and enable The rest of the time they must live to an education. ADRA to provide essential, with the dryness in their mouth and The needy are desperate for life-giving water. their whole body. water, and in Isaiah 41:17, 18 (NIV) Unfortunately, when children in we find that God has indeed prom- P.S. Providing pure, arid areas do get water to drink, it’s ised them water. ‘The poor and clean, life-giving water often muddy. Most likely it’s con- needy search for water, but there is is the single initiative taminated with bacteria, which can none; their tongues are parched with with the greatest cause life-threatening diarrhoea to thirst. But I the Lord will answer impact. The benefits of someone who is already dehydrated. them; I, the God of Israel, will not clean water impact Children are the first to get sick and forsake them. I will make rivers flow every aspect of life in a die from water-related diseases. In on barren heights, and springs with- community. Your help fact, dirty water kills nearly 5,000 in the valleys. I will turn the desert will make it possible for children each day. ADRA is commit- into pools of water, and the parched ADRA to give a glimpse ted to changing this disturbing fact. ground into springs.’ of God’s mercy and And your generosity to give becomes Through the Annual Appeal you grace to individuals who the cup of water that keeps a child have the opportunity to bring God’s are literally dying for a alive. Word into action. Why not donate a drop of clean water. Ingathering dates 2009 METROPOLITAN AREA: 28 March - 19 April PROVINCES: 28 March - 12 April Follow the Bible in 2009 end, insofar as I am concerned. The revelation of God in Scripture is in ‘end’ is not simply satisfaction at Jesus Christ. Jesus makes the unity discovering some new take on the between the two testaments. In the truth or grip on the Gospel. It is not New Testament he fulfils hundreds ‘That I may know him’ just (to paraphrase A. T. Pierson) of Old Testament prophecies. All When will it end? that ‘The Bible is the study of the sixty-six books enshrine him. The by David Marshall evidences of Christianity [of which] chief characters, institutions and David Marshall the Bible itself is the greatest evi- histories prefigure him. The best What would you say to someone than when I discover some new dence of all.’ That is not to dismiss ‘windows’ on Jesus are the four who accused you of bibliolatry? insight into a Bible biography, a the extraordinary way in which the gospels. That is why any study of The first thing you could say parable of Jesus, a prophetic book, books of the two testaments vali- the Bible must begin there. would be, ‘What does that mean?’ the gospel story or the letters of dated themselves and came to be Christ is the central figure of Most of the mysteries of Christianity are root- are ‘alive and remain’ when Jesus comes,5 At all events, that’s what I did Paul. included in the ‘canon’. Nor is it to Scripture and the Cross is its central ed in events that lie far away in the past. One Scripture contains any number of injunctions when it happened to me. When the That evidence would all seem to detract from the astounding manu- symbol. The very shape of the cross major Christian event, and one only, lies in to ‘Watch, for you do not know the hour’ and reply came, ‘excessive passion for point to a Guilty verdict. scripts and archaeological discover- suggests the length, breadth and the Bible’, I could recall being A final piece of evidence – the ies of the last two centuries which height of the love of God. Men may the future. states that, not only will there be a fiery dis- accused of worse things! one that had prompted the charge in have proved the accuracy of the reject an angry God, but how can All Christian creeds with which I am famil- play when Jesus returns, but he will come M 6 In common with the late the first place – was that, with the Bible. they reject a God who, even at iar proclaim that Jesus, who is now at the ‘like a thief in the night’. Rumpole of the Bailey I rarely, if help of a friend, I have recently The Bible is not just an accurate the point of their rejection, leans right hand of the Father, will return at some Did outreach go out of fashion? When was ever, plead ‘Guilty as charged’. But completed the construction of a log book: there are many. It is not just a forward in entreaty? unexpected moment in the future. Only the the last time you did any? Or was it one of the the evidence against me was con- cabin at the end of my garden. It is powerful book: there are others. It is Only one day in every 350 in the Father knows precisely when.1 things you sacrificed in order to ‘blend in’ and siderable. I own most of the English insulated, carpeted, heated (my wife not just that it is an inspiring book: life of Jesus is referred to in the Christians believe that the world is coming be ‘politically correct’? A female pastor of a versions of the Bible currently in calls it ‘GCHQ’) and exists so that, books about the Bible can also be accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke to an end which is also a beginning. A begin- black majority church in London said in a print. One or other of these versions when I so choose, my studies can inspiring. and John. But the record of the ning, in fact, of the reign of Christ, in which debate on outreach at the Church of been in this much trouble before. Is God try- is invariably close to hand. I habitu- be uninterrupted! The Bible is a book with a Voice: events of the last seven days takes things will be as they were always meant to England’s General Synod that it is more ing to say something? Could it be, ‘Heaven it speaks to me. Above all things the up one third of the accounts. ally walk around with a copy about Nevertheless, I enter a plea of be, as they always should have been. But important to be ‘Christ-correct’ than ‘politi- and earth will pass away, but my words will my person. Nothing gives me Not Guilty to the bibliolatry charge! Bible is the supreme revelation of Why? Because the Cross is the 7 10 greater, deep-down satisfaction And not just because of my God. The central focus of the Bible clearest depiction of the heart and more than that even. For in the ‘great multi- cally correct’. And I think she was right. never pass away’? Is it, ‘Work . . . [for the] 11 these days than studying the Word. Rumpole of the Bailey instincts! is on a Person, and it is a Person the mind of the God I study the Bible tude that no one could count, from every What do you think? Isn’t it strange to believe night is coming, when no one can work’? In That satisfaction is never greater Bible study is a means to an whose ‘voice’ I hear. The perfect to know and to hear. nation, tribe, people and language, standing in the imminent return of Jesus and, as is the other words, ‘You don’t have much time. Get before the throne and in front of the Lamb’ way with some Adventists, never mention it on with it’? will be those ‘who have come out of the great to anyone – and expect to be taken seriously One of these two statements is biblical. tribulation . . . washed their robes and made by other Christians? You say. Which? them white in the blood of the Lamb’.2 Watching is the business of the Church 1. ‘The Church is a secret, exclusive What I’m saying is that that future event is until Jesus comes. But ‘watching’ has never society – so keep a low profile.’ of vital interest to you and to me because implied inactivity. Watching means active 2. ‘The Church is the only society in the we’re both going to be there. Without the tri- preparation. Preparation is not just keeping world that exists for the benefit of non- umph of justice, without an end to sin, suffer- yourself ‘unspotted from the world’.8 It members. So, go! Share!’ ing, disease and death, without the triumph of involves introducing ‘the everlasting gospel’9 If you come down in favour of 2, why does God, of right and of righteousness – without to every people group on the planet. In what our behaviour indicate 1? the Second Coming of Jesus – history makes Alister McGrath calls ‘The Great Age of Jesus said the Church is like ten brides- maids with lanterns who went out to join a no sense, and life is pointless. Protestant Missions: 1790-1914’ this 12 At a time when pain, war and death were involved a great deal of travelling. Thanks to wedding party. Five were giddy-witted and Brain Health Part 11d everyday realities, the prospect of the return recent changes, a cross section of the people five were cool. The giddy-wits took their of Jesus thrilled Adventists and appealed to groups once the target of missions now live in lanterns but no oil. The cool gals took extra oil others, too. I know. I can remember that time. these islands. for their lanterns. They all started nodding But factors have led to a de-emphasis on Is God trying to say something? To them? and napping. When all ten woke up, the five Christ’s return. Perhaps a little embarrass- To you? To everyone? Is there a reason for the giddy-wits were out of oil and the cool gals Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, the study exposed to while we were awake. From all the infor- The sleep impact ment about it in some quarters. shrinkage of the world by the jet plane and did not have enough oil for everybody. A shocking headline appeared in an article in New demonstrated that people who fail to get a good mation that the brain processed during the day it What factors? Profits have dumbed down the mass migrations of the last sixty years? If What happened then? Scientist on 6 September 2003. It stated: ‘Lack of night’s sleep before studying new information did derives meaning. Subconsciously the brain analyses You decide. You’re in the story. And the sleep can cause brain damage and affect memory.’ not retain as much information as individuals who the information and works through unsolved prob- the prophets. Prosperity has diminished inter- we are, as has often been said, ‘the hands est in eternity. Satan instigated Jonestown and voice of God in the end-time world’ – story is a work in progress. OK, sleep is important; but surely losing some sleep slept well. In fact, the results showed that they lems. During this process the physical structure of Only the Author knows when the play will could not amount to so much damage, could it? In remembered roughly 10% less than their well-rested the brain cells alters so that specific pieces of knowl- and Waco to make the apocalyptic appear an isn’t there something we should be doing? this fast-paced, pressurised world we sometimes counterparts. edge are etched more permanently in the memory. insane embarrassment. And ‘the love of many Something we should be saying? end. Let’s not waste our time guessing when find ourselves with too much to do and not enough The researchers concluding the report stated that Neurologists refer to this process as consolidation. waxed cold’.3 Since national prosperity is a factor behind that will be. Let’s play the parts the Author time in which to accomplish it. In an attempt to it was ‘a worrying finding’, particularly in light of But Jesus is coming. In his poem about his the dumbing down of our personal witnessing, assigned to us. Then shall the end come. meet deadlines and squeeze more into a twenty- other current findings which suggested that the Facts grief at the death of a close friend, Alfred Lord is there a reason why God has permitted the And, beyond the end, that great new four-hour period than is reasonably possible, we average amount of sleep people get each night is • Adequate sleep is essential for study, retention Tennyson’s hope was in ‘One far-off divine economic foundations of the West to be shak- beginning. can find ourselves cutting back on much needed decreasing. ‘This study shows that the brain has to and retrieval of information. event,/To which the whole creation moves’.4 en and its major financial institutions to fall? sleep. Now scientists are finding that this is to our be well rested to receive and store information for • Hours of sleep gained before midnight are twice But is it ‘far-off’? It may seem so especially Be honest, do you remember a time when, References: detriment. memory processing,’ stated Seung-Schik Yoo. as valuable and restful to body and mind as the 1Mark 13:32; Matt. 24:36. 2Rev. 7:9-17. 3Matt. Roxanne Khamsi, reporting in New Scientist on Previous studies have also shown that a full night’s hours after midnight. to younger people; but those of the senior but for Government intervention, most of the 24:12. 4The last two lines of ‘In Memoriam’. 51 11 February 2009, highlighted a new study which rest after studying can improve learning. • An hour of work in the morning is twice as generation know that the next thing we shall banks of Britain would have collapsed? Thessalonians 4:16. 6Matt. 24:42; Luke 22:46; 2 demonstrates that sleep deprivation can severely So what happens to the brain during sleep? productive as an hour of work late at night. experience when the great light dies and we Communism’s Iron Curtain came down Peter 3:10. 7telegraph.co.uk, 11 February 2009. hamper the brain’s ability to learn. In an experiment Scientists have found that when we’re asleep, sleep – is the return of Jesus. Why? ‘The twenty years ago and the capitalist institu- 8James 1:27. 9Rev. 14:6. 10Matt. 24:35. 11John 9:4. led by Seung-Schik Yoo and colleagues at Harvard our brain continues to learn the material we’ve been Good health! dead in Christ shall rise first’. For those who tions that undergird democracy have never 12Matt. 25:1-13.

2 Messenger Messenger 3 left the Adventist Church in 1983 following a divorce. I’d been the editor of Insight, served ecently a minister from a cally correct that we on occasions Muslim or whatever? with Jonathan Barrett as a pastor for five years, and had written black majority church in forget to reflect on whether our What did Jesus have Ithree books. At the time I left, I was doing RLondon told members of the actions are Christ-correct.’ to say about this? departmental work in the South-western Union Church of England’s governing Telegraph.co.uk, 11 February 2009. Consider his words: ‘You Christianity Conference Ministerial Association. body, the General Synod, that Do you see any of those attitudes are the light of the world. From the perspective of someone who left the many Christians appear to see in yourself as a Christian? When I A city on a hill cannot be ‘marginalised’ Church and then came back, the purpose of this Reconnecting community cohesion as more read that, it made me think of the hidden. Neither do people article is to share some ideas on how to reconnect important than evangelisation. British ‘unmentionables’ – politics, light a lamp and put it with and perhaps reclaim some who have become The Revd Nezlin Sterling, sex and religion. Those three have under a bowl. Instead they put it on actually has more to do with inactive or who have left church membership general secretary of the New traditionally been things you don’t its stand, and it gives light to every- actions. Of course, we should completely. Winning back Testament Assembly and an discuss in polite society. In recent one in the house. In the same way, always be ready to talk about our In my case, I submitted a letter of resignation ecumenical representative on years we seem to have grown more let your light shine before men, that faith; elsewhere the Bible is clear to my local church. I had no major doctrinal differ- inactive and the Synod, made her passionate comfortable in talking about the first they may see your good deeds and on that. However, according to ences with the Church – but ministers aren’t sup- comments during a debate on two, but religion still causes a prob- praise your Father in heaven.’ these words of Jesus, it is our posed to get divorces, and I was embarrassed. So ‘the uniqueness of Christ in multi- lem. It is OK to talk about it in gen- (Matthew 5:14-16.) actions that count. I would have to I decided to step aside and return later. I didn’t former church members faith Britain’. eral, in the abstract, but what is not As Christians, we are to be as agree with the Revd Sterling on expect to be gone for sixteen years, however. She said: ‘We cannot allow acceptable is to bring it closer to light, bringing spiritual truth to that score, as she asked us ‘to After turning in my resignation, I never heard by Mike Jones* ourselves to be marginalised. This home and to personalise it. people. reflect on whether our actions are from anyone at my local church. One of my sons process of marginalisation of And then there is the issue However, perhaps the most Christ-correct’. That seems like a called me a few months later to tell me I was no Watch for inactive members on say a word about God or church. I mainly asked Christianity seems to be moving at of political correctness. Do we fail important aspect of the passage is good thing to consider. Political longer a member. When I asked him how he knew Sabbath mornings when they visit. questions about his favourite hobbies, which are a rapid rate in our country. . . . I to mention our faith for fear that Jesus’ emphasis on people seeing correctness may have its place, that, he told me he’d just read about it in the During my years away from church, I coaching basketball and football. A few weeks am of the belief that we in the it might cause offence to our our good deeds. Being light shiners but ‘Christ-correctness’ certainly church bulletin. used to visit local churches several times later, my daughter-in-law emailed my wife and church are so anxious to be politi- hearers if they are atheist or is not necessarily about words, but does. After returning to membership about eight 2a year – and so do other inactive and told her that Mike Jr was talking about coming years ago, I learned I hadn’t been alone in leaving. former members. Frankly, I was usually lost in back to church. About a year later, he was re- would be willing to forgive me. members more and more often lately. empathetically. Remember that Job’s friends Denominational statistics show that more than 1.6 church once I got past the deacons. I can recall baptised, along with two of his sons. Very few turn me down. And when they say One formerly inactive member told me that really did comfort Job – until they started to talk. million members worldwide were dropped from only one time when a pastor encountered and This doesn’t mean, however, that we shouldn’t yes, I quickly pray with them, thanking God for the several years ago, as she was sitting alone on her membership or were missing between 2002 and spoke with me. encourage inactive members to consider coming forgiving spirit the person has just exercised. I couch, a voice said to her, ‘Vickie, you must go Never give up. Roger Morneau tells of 2006.1 Some church leaders believe that number Diane and I were invited once to speak at a back. Recently I talked with a businessman in my also pray that the Holy Spirit will make their back to church. Take your family and go.’ She did, praying for a young man named Robert could be much higher. Each of the first two pas- small church whose leaders told us they had a home church about his time out of the church. ‘I decision a reality and bring great healing into and today she is a Sabbath School leader in her for three years before Robert was ready tors of the church that my wife Diane and I joined plan in place to reach former members. After the was out for about twenty years,’ he told me. ‘I just their lives. Believe me, these are always healing church. to turn his life around.7 after returning to membership also left the sermon, I chatted with a man in the lobby and got busy and drifted out. If anyone had invited me moments. Colin McClay had been out of the Church for 9 Church, which was a bit disconcerting. Here are learned he was a former member who hadn’t to return during those years, I believe I would thirty-five years. He had gone through a divorce Was someone praying for me during the sixteen some recent statistics for you to mull: attended church in twenty-three years. I asked have,’ he said. Consider prayer warrior Roger and had been casually thinking about God and years I was away from Church? I may not know • The ratio of new members who join the him how many of the members had greeted him. Morneau’s protocol for the inactive. maybe attending church some time, but he had the answer to that question until I reach Heaven. Adventist Church to the number who leave is He said, ‘None.’ During the afternoon meeting, I Consider anointing the former member Morneau, author of the books Incredible taken no immediate action. On 5 July 2002, how- But if there was, I will be eternally grateful. 100 to 24.2 told the group about him, and they were shocked. who becomes ill. My friend Don Gray Answers to Prayer, More Incredible ever, he heard a voice speak to him while he was Don’t stop praying, and never give up. After all, • Worldwide between 2002 and 2006, 1,684,303 They also confirmed what he had told me – not tells the story of anointing his brother Answers to Prayer and others, developed in the shower. ‘The voice was so powerful,’ he God doesn’t. 3 6 Adventists dropped out or went missing. This one of them had connected with him. Burt, who had been out of the Church for the following plan to reclaim inactive and former said, ‘that at first I thought someone was in my breaks down to an average of 6,478 who So let’s look out for these people. We tend to forty-three years, in part because of a members.5 apartment.’ References: 4 1Office of Archives & Statistics, General Conference of slipped away every week during this five-year think of inactive or former members as being ‘out drinking problem. Don stayed in touch with Burt • Read Matthew 27:24-54 daily, then plead the What did the voice say? Simply this: ‘Go to Seventh-day Adventists. 2Ibid. 3Ibid. 4Roger L. Dudley, period. in the world’ when, in reality, they may be sitting throughout the years, but was unable to reach merits of Jesus’ shed blood on behalf of the church tomorrow.’ He did. Some months after his 5 • Forty to 50% of Adventist teenagers in North in church only a few feet away from us. And keep him spiritually until Burt was in the last stages inactive person and pray that their sins will be baptism, Colin wrote to me from Tampa, Florida: Why Our Teenagers Leave the Church, p. 35. Roger 4 Morneau, When You Need Incredible Answers to Prayer, America become inactive by age 25. in mind that they don’t arrive wearing ‘backslider’ of cirrhosis of the liver. blotted out. ‘Since deciding to recommit my life to Jesus and chapter 9. 6The rest of the story is in my new book, As you can see, we’re haemorrhaging. So how signs, and they may arrive late and leave early. Don’s first hospital visit found Burt in a coma • Pray for the Holy Spirit to minister the graces follow him, I am experiencing the greatest joy I Sometimes I Don’t do we reach those who’ve left? How do we stop The church I used to pastor in Anchorage, with four tubes coming out of his body, his skin of redemption for them and fight their spiritual have ever known.’ Feel Like Praying! the bleeding? Here are a few thoughts for your Alaska, reclaimed a large number of inactive and the colour of a pumpkin. A few days later, when battles, even though they haven’t asked for In my case, I don’t know who may have been 7Roger Morneau, consideration: former members largely because the church lead- Burt was able to hold a conversation, Don asked this kind of help. praying for me for so many years, and I never Incredible Answers ers joined me in greeting and talking with people him if he’d like to be anointed. He agreed, and the • Ask the Holy Spirit to re-create their spiritual heard any voice speaking to me. But God has a to Prayer, p. 75. Leave the former member on your in the lobby. We focused on getting acquainted day after the anointing Don found him sitting up faculties, looking to the Spirit of life in Christ thousand ways to reach people that many of us church mailing list. I no longer heard with everyone who darkened our door. Did you and alert. Not long after that wondrous event, Don Jesus (Romans 8:2) to do this miraculous have never thought of. For me, it was an unlikely from my church again once I was no notice I said it was the ‘church leaders’ who were re-baptised him, and Burt rejoined the Church and work. way indeed – when I met a special woman named *Mike Jones lives in Portland, Oregon, longer a member. Because my name engaged in this ministry? That’s an important lived for another nine years. • Pray this way daily, recognising that the person Diane and asked her out. She responded by telling with his wife Diane. 1 was removed from the church books, I point to remember. you’re praying for has the power of choice, but me that she dated only Christian men and asked He wrote his new also stopped receiving the union paper and the Apologise for the church when a that the Holy Spirit now can work with added me if I was a Christian. I told her I was a book, Sometimes I Adventist Review. So let me ask you: If we want Pray for but don’t nag your family former member feels wounded. You power in the person’s life. Christian, but that I was not active in a church. don’t Feel Like to reclaim inactive and former members, does it member who has dropped out. Several and I never know for sure how accurate • Give thanks daily for what God is doing in the She said she wouldn’t date a guy who wouldn’t Praying! with inac- make sense to cut off all communication with years ago I discovered I was trying to do their ‘church-done-me-wrong’ story is. life of the person you’re praying for, whether attend church with her. I told her I was willing tive and former them? the Holy Spirit’s work with my oldest son, But we can tell them we’re sorry for their you see any results or not. to negotiate church attendance. That was the church members in 5 mind. He directs the Several years ago, the Adventist Review ran an who had been inactive for more than pain. I often tell the inactive former member, ‘I’m beginning of my return to church, and a beautiful 3 6 Voice of Prophecy’s article I wrote about my return to church member- twenty years. How do I know I was doing that? really sorry for your pain, and on behalf of our Remember to claim God’s promises on relationship that culminated in marriage. ship. A few months later, I heard from someone I Because I learned through a family member that church I’d like to ask for your forgiveness.’ behalf of the inactive or former mem- outreach to former members in North knew back in the sixties who had been out of the he was frustrated when I came to visit because Many people tell me it wasn’t me but the ber. Then let God do what God does best. Listen, listen, listen. If an inactive America. Church for nearly fifty years. It turns out he still ‘all Dad can do is talk about religion’. I did, in fact, church that caused their problem. And I always There’s an example in Jeremiah 3:22 in or former member honours you by Originally published received the Review, saw the story, and made give him a bad time because his boys were grow- tell them, ‘I understand, but I’d still like to 7which God promises: ‘I will heal your sharing their possibly painful story, in Adventist Review, contact with me. So keep the inactive and former ing up with little spiritual nurture. But I decided to apologise on behalf of the church for whatever backslidings’ (KJV). In wonderful ways God seems suture your mouth shut and listen. 19 June 2008. members on your mailing list. clean up my act. The next time I visited I didn’t happened or didn’t happen.’ Then I ask if they to be reconnecting with inactive and former 8Don’t defend the Church. Just listen Permission sought. 4 Messenger Messenger 5 Ipswich: Starting the New Year right Norwich and Kings Lynn What’s cooking? by Brian Pilmoor pswich church witnessed a very special occasion on the first Sabbath of Sabbath 8 November was a day of joy monies of how God had led them. 2009. It was a day of rejoicing and thanksgiving when mother and daugh- and celebration for the churches of The children were also delighted and, ter, Margaret Long and Tomisha Kersey, were baptised by Pastor Samuel Visiting Newbold church cafeteria, begin- I Norwich and Kings Lynn, as the wanting to be a part of the moment, Ouadjo. Margaret and Tomisha (also fondly known as Maggie and Tammy) ning at 7pm, I discovered thirty-eight indi- Norwich church hosted a mighty serv- sat and stood close by the baptistery viduals attending the first evening supper have been attending for over a year and made a public declaration of their ice. To begin with, Marc and Janice to see for themselves what ‘dying to commitment to God after a series of Bible studies. The elders and church to taste ten different dishes of food. Naiken of Kings Lynn brought their sin and rising to faith’ really meant. Butternut squash soup, an agreeable family warmly welcomed the new members. Husband and wife duo Stan children to be dedicated to the Lord They watched intently as each went and Sophia Sigawale graced us with the special item ‘I Surrender All’ – a starter and acceptable to all, was our first and accepted into the Christian fami- under the water and then rose again taste. I asked a number of those attend- lovely rendition which complemented a very special day. COMMUNICATION TEAM ly. Then two young ladies, Selulako to welcome a new beginning in their ing, ‘How did you like it?’ One man sitting Sibanda and Avis Davidson, gave lives. next to me, Geoff, responded in one word, their lives to the Lord in baptism. During the service we were like- ‘Excellent.’ Selu had studied with the elders wise blessed with a moving song by Viewing the long table of various dish- of the Norwich church, and Avis, who Sidney Grant of Norwich, Marc and es, I soon discovered the theme for the is the first person ever to be baptised Janice. The service was followed evening was ‘Colourful Cookery’. Yes – from the Kings Lynn group, had by food and fellowship and much this arrangement of cream, yellow, pink, prepared for baptism with the pastor, welcoming of visitors and friends. orange, red and purple colours followed Chris Peake. Both gave many testi- FRIDA PEAKE the starter in rainbow order of yellow and orange peppers, pink mashed potato, red cabbage and purple beetroot slices with greens. I mentioned the ‘rainbow’ spec- trum because I spotted one young lady wearing a rainbow horizontally striped jer- sey spoon-feeding her daughter dressed in a bright red frock. I enquired of her, ‘How did she like it?’ ‘Lovely!’ she replied. I was glad to see a number of mothers in attendance with their children, because a healthy diet for the family is so important. After every meal had been eaten, Dr Clemency Mitchell, the organiser, with her team of healthy helpers, gave a commentary on some of the foods and also spoke on the positive side of preventing diseases like cancer. Another helper named Brit, hailing from Norway, also explained one of her dishes. This was immediately followed by a lecture on vitamins conducted by Dr Isabel Moraes from Brazil. Her illustrated talk was about fifteen minutes. She was dressed in a bright red sleeveless jacket and white blouse. Her shoulder-length black hair was clear of her ears which were ready to listen to the many questions that were posed. One thing I liked about this item in the evening programme was the issue of vitamins. We were given five things which contain vitamin E – sunflower seeds (which I am feeding to the blue tits on my garden bird table) and sunflower oil, wheat-germ, almonds Northcott Avenue after-school club and pine nuts. This was my ‘take-away’ morsel to chew over. This evening’s meeting concluded on a clap-happy note as nder the capable leadership of Hazel Sommers, Paula Campbell, everyone expressed their appreciation of the work that had been undertaken Caroline Sturge and others, Wood Green church has been reaching out to make this ‘colour cookery’ evening a success. A further three cookery Uto the Wood Green community with their after-school children’s club. evenings were held in February. The club is open to all children within the Wood Green community and pro- vides an opportunity for the children to socialise and enjoy themselves out- side of school, while learning constructive new skills at the same time. The activity club has hit the ground running and kicked off to an excellent start, with a majority of the children coming from non-Adventist families. On Sunday 14 December, the children had their first ‘graduation’ ceremony, where they had the opportunity to present their newly acquired skills to their friends and relatives. Over the course of six weeks, the children (ranging from 8-10 years old) took part in steel pan and cookery lessons. Parents were treated to an entertaining display by the steel pan team, as well as all the tasty treats prepared by the children, including plaited bread, scones and fruit kebabs. Due to the positive feedback from parents and children alike, the club has continued to run in 2009. Our pastor, Royston Smith, and the team would like to thank Dr Terry Messenger for attending the graduation programme and handing the certificates to the graduates. CAROLINE MANDEYA

6 Messenger Messenger 7 Green Street Community Forum event Pastoral preparation by Susan McLean by Helen Pearson* God was with us on Sabbath 31 The jumbo cigarette for the which are different groups invited to January. anti-smoking was on display. Melodie community events in the borough. Some of the Theology students at Newbold College took a significant step On 17 January I had met with the and Alberto were performing with the Following this event, the towards employment during two days of interviews last week. Plaistow Active Team Community puppets and playing the kids gospel coordinator of the Dirty Hands On Tuesday evening in Moor Close, eighteen students, some of them with Forum and we finalised plans for music at intervals. Meanwhile, Carol Community Project, Alison Skeats, their spouses, gathered to meet the church leaders from the British Union the Environmental Awareness com- and I were helping children to make came to Plaistow church to look Conference. Half of them were seeking employment when they complete munity event at Lister on 21 March. litterbags from recycled papers/ at the surrounding area to identify their studies later this year, the other half were seeking sponsorship for Counsellor Ali and the Community carrier bags. All day long swarms of possible sites for the Pathfinders postgraduate studies with the hope of employment later. Participation Unit officer for Plaistow children and their parents queued to get involved in growing fruit and The event began with a magnificent evening buffet provided by Newbold were present. It was here that I sug- for their chance to make a nicely vegetables in various sacks/drums/ chef, Zak Ambrus, followed by a meeting where the students were gested that the Pathfinders could be decorated bag with the message: containers. Two days later she sent addressed by the Irish Mission president, Pastor David Neal, who spoke involved on the day and I was asked ‘My Litter Bag – Keep God’s World details of GrantScape and the Church about the challenges of the first year in ministry. ‘Listen to God, listen to to coordinate with the Pathfinders Clean’. Urban Fund Launch New Grant each other and listen to the world,’ was his advice. club. It was a good experience. We were Scheme (London). These enable The following day, all eighteen students were interviewed by the church It was like an extended Junior located right outside the principal’s churches and similar organisations to leaders who finished off their day with a debrief with the members of the Sabbath School activity in which we office of the Cleves Primary School. request funding for projects of up to Department of Theological Studies. met parents and children of all When we met her she said we were £10,000. The aim is to help volun- The British Union president, Pastor Don McFarlane, was positive about nationalities. Many were interested in doing a great job and she liked the teers to create green places within the Newbold product and commented favourably on the diversity and the Pathfinder club and indicated that display and interest the children had the community, with volunteers maturity among the students he met. ‘In the four years since we have they would like to get their children in what we had to offer. We also met growing food to share with each other, been meeting like this,’ he said, ‘this is probably the most diverse and the involved. We gave Pathfinder litera- the Community Participation Unit offi- breaking down barriers and building most mature group of students we have interviewed. Diversity is good ture to those who inquired and cer for the area who said she could up positive relations with people because it means that these people are naturally more qualified to minister answered questions as necessary. link us to all the other activities in the within the immediate area. to the increasingly culturally diverse Seventh-day Adventist Church in the One parent left her details and asked borough if we wanted to become more Our next event will be held at UK. Maturity is always good and, in this case, means that some of the when her 5- and 7-year-old children involved. As a result, we have been the Lister Community School on 21 students are bringing to ministry years of experience of lay church could start! added to the list of ‘stakeholders’, March. leadership. Our meetings reflect well on Newbold’s training of these men and women and augur well for the future life of the Church.’ Ugandan MA student, Samson Kasumba Mulunda, was impressed with the co-operation between the College and the church leaders in the hiring of Hulbert. Following his baptism, Jason received a formal welcome into St ministers in the UK. ‘I have never seen such an open, transparent process Valentine’s Day baptism Austell church membership. before,’ he said. ‘If ever I get the chance I shall try to implement similar The day’s celebrations concluded with a meal and barn dance in the procedures in other places.’ *For more information about Newbold go to www.newbold.ac.uk The demonstration of God’s love for Jason Collings was reciprocated in the church hall. And by the way, Jason has no hard feelings about the ‘blackmail’ pool at St Austell church on 14 February. that prompted his first attendance at a service. Jason lives near the church and started attending a Friday evening STEVE GREAVES programme during the early days of the St Austell Youth Project. When he found himself and a friend stranded in a local town with no way home, In Colossians 1:23 Paul is clear when he says came naturally. But when we become a Christian, he knew what to do. He rang Ashley Youth preach that the Gospel in one generation was preached to all of a sudden we all need classes in witnessing. Brooks, one of the youth volunteers, ‘every creature under heaven’. How did they do We need training in how to be witnesses. confident that he would help. by Alan Hush, NEC Youth director that? How did the Gospel go to the entire known But think about this: Do you have to be a However, this came with a price. world so fast? meteorologist to talk about the weather? Do you ‘Sure, I’ll pick you up, if you help me I remember reading about 10-year-old Tilly Smith In 1 Corinthians 15:10 Paul says, ‘By the grace need to be a doctor to talk about your health? with an item at church next week.’ who had recently enjoyed learning about tsunamis of God I am what I am.’ Evidently Paul didn’t try to Just be who you are. The issue is not if we As friendships and fellowship in her class at school and was now on holiday, be a witness; it was natural. He was filled with have had enough training. The issue is: are we developed with the young people, standing on a beach in Phuket. the Holy Spirit. He didn’t try to become a witness Christian enough? friends and members, Jason started On 26 December 2005 she recognised the – his life was a witness in what he said and did. So my question is: What is exciting you? What to take a more active part in the signs, (the swell, the unnatural tide, among other Youth are among the best witnesses I have are you getting excited about? services, tentatively at first, but with things), and interpreted them correctly. She ever seen. They have energy, passion, sincerity Everyone on this planet is a witness, but for a growing confidence. Alongside this, sensed something powerful was coming, and very and vision. I have observed youth witnessing per- whom? his growing relationship with God fast. To say that she got excited would be an sonally, excitedly and sometimes even hysterically However, having said that, we do need training was enriched by more formal studies understatement; hysterical is a better word. She about the things that excite them and mean most in how to witness more effectively by better with Pastor Mick Smart and led him screamed to everyone with a loud voice that they to them. understanding certain things about our world and to request baptism. should get off the beach. Some did, including her ‘Hey, you’ve got to get that CD; they sound the youth culture we live in. This is why we have The baptismal service was family. Thanks to God and Tilly’s prophesying, they awesome!’ ‘Listen, man, you’ve got to go and the ADVANCE conference and other such events. attended by Jason’s mum and broth- survived. That day Tilly was a prophet and a watch this movie!’ ‘Have you checked out the Tilly Smith preached with a loud voice on the er, friends, visitors, past youth vol- powerful witness. Sony Ericsson W800i?’ beach that day and she saved lives. Our youth will unteers and church members. Music Witnessing is not a spiritual gift. It is This is witnessing – sharing a message. likewise preach with a ‘loud voice’ (Revelation items especially chosen by Jason something we all do naturally, often without Getting excited about what is important to us is 14:9), not before a tsunami, but before Jesus included ‘Our God is an awesome even knowing about it, and we all witness to natural and perfectly normal. The world is an returns and saves lives. God’ and also ‘Take me in’, per- that which we get excited about and that which excellent witness, mostly for the devil. You didn’t For more details about the NEC ADVANCE formed by Jen Bahrain and Steve Jason (middle) with Steve Webb and Silje Møller is most important to us. have to try to witness for the devil, did you? It conference see www.necyd.com.

8 Messenger Messenger 9 the lay preacher. The Emmaus Centre is a place of peace and tranquillity. Set in pleas- Preaching the mind of God ant grounds, it is comfortable and well equipped with very pleasant by Eileen Irvine and helpful staff. It was good to see so many at the seminar; almost f there was a theme at the recent Anthony said, again to paraphrase, On the Saturday evening we had forty for the weekend, with many preaching seminar held in the ‘The Holy Spirit is not only in the a lecture in the art of public speak- more attending for the Sabbath lec- IEmmaus Centre outside Dublin, spontaneous but also, and maybe ing from an outside consultancy tures. Our Mission president, Pastor then it was ‘Preaching the mind of especially, in systematic study and firm, Executive Leadership – David Neal, is to be congratulated God’. Pastors and lay preachers preparation.’ Ireland, which received a positive for arranging and participating in from all over the island of Ireland For many this will mean a para- response. Additionally, each of us such a helpful programme. This met together from Friday to Sunday, digm shift in thinking, as the method was given a textbook and workbook, preaching seminar is now added to focusing on the principles of effec- used by some preachers is to think ‘Heralds of God’s Word’ by the the previous two successful elders’ tively preaching the Word. The of a subject and then try to find late Mike Stickland, to encourage seminars Pastor Neil has run in the seminar was led by Pastor Gavin Scripture to support it or to try to continuing study, particularly for Emmaus Centre. Anthony, the senior pastor in Dublin, manoeuvre Scripture in such a way and by Pastor Patrick Boyle. as to mean something that it was Baptism and evangelism plans for Cardiff African Fellowship This was no mere ‘how to’ semi- never intended to mean in the first Handsworth by Theo Gokah and John Surridge nar; there were no short cuts or place. fancy techniques offered. It became Pastor Anthony led out in three Family On Sabbath afternoon, 14 February Kestine’s example in giving their An evangelistic campaign held in Christ – Call your Friend’. very clear that when preaching we seminars on expository preaching, 2009, Mrs Kestine Mpofu Lusinga hearts to Jesus and pledging to the autumn of 2008 led to five bap- Pastor Asiamah and the leaders are dealing with the very things of demonstrating the depth of applica- Ministries was baptised in the Cardiff Central be baptised at some stage in the tisms, with Kestine bringing the total of the Cardiff African Fellowship God. Handling the Word is a solemn tion required to move to an expand- church and welcomed into member- future. to six baptisms in less than six have introduced a number of other responsibility that needs to engage ed level of understanding, with brief week ship of the Cardiff African The Cardiff African Fellowship, months. initiatives to help build members’ the preacher in thorough Bible study exercises for illustration. It was a Fellowship. Kestine’s husband known in the community as the The evangelistic emphasis spirituality and capacity to be effec- and prayer; to paraphrase John revelation to hear that to prepare an ‘We haven’t been this Future, who is already a member, South Wales African Adventist continues. On Sabbath 7 February tive witnesses for Christ. These Stott, ‘There can be no true and eloquent, meaningful and compre- full in the afternoon and their son Ryan, were present Fellowship, or SWAAF, grew out of Welsh Mission president Pastor include a prayer chain programme, effective preaching until those who hensible sermon takes fifteen to two weeks in a row for for the service, along with a large the Cardiff Central church nearly two John Surridge launched ‘Evangelism where each group prays and fasts preach devote themselves to prayer twenty hours! This, of course, is while!’ exclaimed one number of friends and supporters. years ago with the primary intention 2009’ as part of the Adventist on certain days throughout the year. and systematic and effective study above and beyond devotional Bible senior member. She The baptism coincided with a of reaching out to members of the World Church’s ‘Year of Evangelism’. In addition to this, Bible studies, of the Word.’ study and a need to be totally was right. Even by Children’s Day at the Cardiff Central African community living in South The evangelistic strategy for the active worship It would be difficult to condense immersed in the Word. Handsworth church church, and many youngsters were Wales. Under the leadership of Cardiff African Fellowship will services and amicable social inter- what we learned into a few words Pastor Boyle preached two standards, the last two Sabbaths had been a sight to behold. However, as the able to witness firsthand – right Pastor George Asiamah it has include using DVDs of the Australian actions, all add to the plan for but, essentially, we were led to exemplary sermons that not only subject matter was so emotive it wasn’t hard to see why! from the edge of the baptistery – retained its evangelistic emphasis evangelist Pastor Geoff Youlden, equipping members and building understand more about expository demonstrated the skill of handling As Pastor Garry Gordon expressed words of appreciation to the Family what a baptism is really like. Many and has grown considerably – to the as well as a great deal of personal capacity for the task ahead. preaching. That is when the preach- the Word appropriately but also suc- Ministries team under the leadership of Leonard Haye, there was a sense of of them, as well as a number of extent that in May 2008 it was witnessing by the members. The Pictures from the baptism can er moves beyond the surface read- ceeded in lifting up Christ. His ser- satisfaction that the week had gone so well. Beginning on Sabbath 7 older people in the congregation, formed into an official company of leaders have also adopted a dual be seen on the SWAAF website at: ing of a passage and digs down until mons were inspirational and brought February, the morning service focused on Christian identity and self-worth. responded to an appeal to follow the Welsh Mission. theme: ‘Each One Win One for www.swaaf.org.uk. he reaches a place where he com- the hearer closer to the Saviour. Pastor Gordon’s sermon: ‘Is there anybody there?’ looked at the experience of prehends something of the meaning Pastor Boyle also gave practical Elijah under the juniper tree. However, passionate as his preaching was, the of God’s message to the original hints on sermon preparation. morning service became merely a prelude to an inspiring and emotional AYS reader and then, beyond that, to For example, he always uses the who looked at the hot topic of ‘Single by death, divorce, decision and default’. what God intends the passage to mnemonic ERIC: encourage, rele- The first two categories took the form of an interview in which members Balham Gospel Choir mean to us today. In effect, to get to vance, instruction/illustration and shared their stories of singleness and loss from very different perspectives. December 13 was wet, windy and cold, but inside the Balham a place where the message is not Christ in the sermon. Fitting these While in this first section one could hear a pin drop, the last two areas pro- church it was warm, friendly and exciting. Invitations had been our message but is truly a message four elements into a sermon will duced a forthright and open exchange of views on the male-female ratio and sent to members of the community to a concert organised by the from God. This is only accomplished satisfy the needs of a hungry con- the challenge of maintaining one’s Christian integrity and purity as an Balham Gospel Choir, but when the weather turned cold and through prayer, Bible study and the gregation. The emphasis Pastor Adventist single. wet, making the church driveway muddy, it was questioned leading of the Holy Spirit. Some felt Boyle used that sticks in my mind On the Sunday morning the series continued with practical and spiritual whether visitors would still come out. But God never fails and that the leading of the Holy Spirit regarding Christ is that the preacher counsel in a parenting seminar delivered expertly by husband-and-wife team many members of the community did come, as well as a num- may exempt the preacher from so is to ‘lift him up, lift him up, lift him and home-schooling parents, Pastor Paul and Jeannetta Liburd. On Tuesday ber of ex-members. The aim of the concert was to remind the much preparation, but as Pastor up’. and Wednesday night Pastor Felix Jack, the recently appointed NEC Family community that Balham church is still here, ready and willing to Ministries director, chaired seminars on communication and conflict resolu- serve. It was also a good opportunity to raise funds for the tion in the family. A special feature and highlight of the week was the men’s church building project. The choir organised an enjoyable night, sponsored by the Men’s Ministries leader, Oscar Stewart. This focused evening of music and testimony and their numerous special on men’s health issues by Handsworth medic Dr Kevin Stewart. He chal- guests included Balham’s Children’s Choir, Proclaim, Kristina lenged men to start breaking the cycle of not going to their GP as he explained Harper-Fuller, Phillip Massiah, Margaret Cameron, Degen Griffith the many possible serious ailments that could afflict men of any age. and also Balham’s very own assistant pastor, Vaughn Thorpe. The youth were not left out during the week with a Friday night focus: The concert had great instrumental support from many talented ‘Learning to make the right choices’. The week concluded with a sermon by musicians, including Richard Timmerman (guitar) and Amanda Pastor Gordon entitled ‘Bringing Back the Love’ in which he challenged mar- Timmerman (violin), Michael Massiah (sax), Kevin Rowe (bass) ried couples from the story of the Ephesus church to go back to their first love and John Bolvin (drums). Many of the visitors stayed afterwards through the touch, taste, sight, smell and sound of romance. The week con- for refreshments and gave many positive comments on the cluded with husband-and-wife team Ray and Glenda Augustine from the West event, which is testament to the enduring power of the Gospel. Bromwich church and members of the NEC Family Ministries team sharing NATASHA SHARMAH ‘Top ten tips to keep the love flowing’. COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

10 Messenger Messenger 11 friends and were lovingly baptised grandchildren. Camping has remained an impor- by Pastor Trevor Thomas and Pastor tant feature in the lives of John and Margaret Peter Sayers. and they delighted in running camps for young PAUL SAUNDERS people and older members alike. Before leaving Manchester South they regularly organised camping retreats, in association with the NEC Proud parents at Youth department, for up to 120 senior and junior youth. For the last few years they have Delainie Louth (left) and Kandace Saunders Balham organised the Bury retreat to Aberdaron. It is not unusual to invite your par- The couple’s life has been one of service for ents to attend your baptism. But the the Lord in sustaining the work of the church. Pathfinders baptised parents of four of our young people Although they moved to support the work in Bury Yardley witnessed the moving bap- and two women did not have to trav- in 2000, John was the first elder in Manchester tism of two lovely young ladies on 29 el very far to attend their children’s South for many years prior to that, where both November. Kandace Saunders, 11, baptism on 6 December. Between he and Margaret were founder members. and Delainie Louth, 13, declared them their parents have been The members present for their special day their desire to commit their young attending Balham church for over shared fond memories of John and Margaret. lives fully to the Lord. They were led ten years, so when their children Many of those present recalled how the couple The newly baptised with Pastor Wilfred Blake (left), first elder Rory Mendez (right) and Nicardo Delahayes (back) into the church by their fellow expressed their desire to be baptised had influenced their lives over the years. For Pathfinders who themselves followed at their usual church in Balham, it example, Margaret, a machinist, produced ten the excellent drum corps led by was a pleasure for all parents to 14ft x 14ft tents and a marquee to hold 120 Theodore Bell playing solo on the come to church on Sabbath as usual people, and new shirts for the Pathfinder troop. Stoke Newington: Youth week of revival snare. Kandace’s testimony was but for an extra special occasion – half century together. The master of ceremonies She also made robes for the church choir, along especially touching as she told us to witness their children dedicate for the day was Pastor Peter Jeynes, and Pastor with seat covers for use in the sanctuary and baptism using PowerPoint and video of her their lives to Christ. Douglas Golden Wedding Jeff Couzins delivered a short message in which curtains for both Manchester South and Oldham The Youth department of the Stoke be all right, which fitted in with his serious car accident that has result- Ssekyanzi, Brandon Graham, brother he said that Heaven intended marriage to last a churches. John has blessed the church over the Newington church held a week of sermon title: ‘Everything will be all ed in the loss of her sight in one eye. and sister Kenny and Carla Neller, On 14 September 2008, John and Margaret lifetime, a fact beautifully illustrated in the lives years as elder, lay preacher, and the longest- revival from 22 to 29 November. right’. Even while lying in the ambulance Margaret Cameron and Trudian Barron celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniver- of Margaret and John. serving Pathfinder leader in the NEC. The Bury The theme for the week was ‘We Spiritual mentors were assigned she comforted her parents by telling Francis were baptised by Balham’s sary with twenty-two members of their family in John and Margaret met fifty-two years ago members also present expressed their apprecia- would see Jesus’. Youth Day on to each candidate, and each was them that God would take care of very own Pastor Keith Boldeau. All Germany. A week later, Manchester South while at a camp in Whitby and have raised four tion for all that John and Margaret have done Sabbath 22 November launched the given the usual baptism package. everything. Needless to say, there the parents along with the members children. They, in turn, have given them seven church opened its doors and seventy friends since transferring their membership to Bury. week of revival. In the Sabbath FLO SUTHERLAND were some tears in church. Both of Balham church welcome these came to join the couple as they celebrated their grandchildren, and two delightful great- JEFF COUZINS School session the lesson study Delainie and Kandace were well new members. period took the form of a scene in a supported by many family and NATASHA SHARMAH doctor’s surgery. There were five Levi Lawrence at 90 young speakers in the divine service On Sunday 8 November members has never looked back. He has been grace towards him and a very basing their talks on ‘Portrait of of the Stoke Newington church blessed with good health and a very active church life. Derby: Christ unites us in our diversity Jesus’. Each speaker told how they honoured their oldest member active life. Most Sundays he can be Brother Lawrence is the father of see Jesus. Levi Lawrence on his 90th found at Speakers’ Corner in Hyde four children, ten grandchildren and On Saturday 10 January the mem- our faithful members who have From Sabbath afternoon our birthday. Park witnessing for the Lord, and seven great-grandchildren, and he bers of Derby Chester Green and given long and outstanding service speaker for the week was Nicardo The occasion began with a short Bethel churches and the Burton to their churches. The proceedings prior to that in the 1990s in his 80s still lives at home with his second group and friends were privileged to were conducted by Pastor Selburn Delahayes, a 20-year-old final-year thanksgiving service conducted by he could be found in Leicester wife of thirty years, Jean. His birth- experience a heart-warming and Fray, and the other coordinators theological student from Oakwood our minister Pastor Wilfred Blake. Square every Saturday night wit- day will be featured in the Voice Spirit-filled convention at the Derby were Eric Lawrence, Dawn Hallam, College. Nicardo was making a After the service Brother Lawrence, nessing. He still sings in the church and the Gleaner, two popular Riverside Centre. Sansia Fray, and Don and Clarisse. return visit after two years. Each as he is affectionately called, and choir and is an assistant Sabbath Caribbean weekly newspapers pub- The convention commenced on Recognition was also given for the night he delivered sermons with his wife Jean were escorted to the School superintendent. lished in the UK, following a visit Friday evening at 7pm at the Bethel contribution of the youth. The titles such as ‘Blind Faith’, ‘Thou church hall, followed by the congre- Brother Lawrence attributes his from a reporter and photographer. church in Boyer Street in Derby. It awards were presented to the youth art the man’, ‘This Man receives gation, for a reception. A sumptuous longevity mainly to God’s good FLO SUTHERLAND was the start of a wonderful week- by Pastor Selburn and Sansia Fray. sinners’ and ‘There is a lesson to meal was laid on, prepared by the end. On Sabbath morning 10 January The programme was brought to a be learnt and a blessing to be Stoke Newington ladies. After the at 9.45 at the Riverside Centre was close by Pam Burrell, elder of the gained’. Each night we were meal, which we all enjoyed, many blessed with a different praise speeches were given, telling of their Sabbath School, followed by divine Bethel church. Pastor Moses Keturah and Co. service. Msimanga gave the closing prayer. team from other churches. encounters over the years with There was an enjoyable fellow- On the Sunday our Bible worker On Sabbath afternoon, 29 Brother Lawrence. This was fol- ship lunch for which the church Eric Lawrence commenced the day November, family, friends and lowed by the cutting of a birthday members were very grateful to Beryl with a morning devotional, followed church members witnessed the cake. Shuttleworth and her team for the by the church officers’ training day. baptism by our minister, Pastor Brother Lawrence was born into cuisine. As the Communications officer for Wilfred Blake, of three candidates. an Adventist family in the parish of The afternoon programme was Derby Chester Green and on behalf Sister and brother Monique and Portland in Jamaica and emigrated conducted by Tony Smith from 3 to of the joint church membership of Lamont Roper, our church children to the UK in 1948, the year of the 4pm. It was a wonderful inspira- both Bethel and Chester Green and who joined their mother Sandra who SS Windrush, when the first immi- tional hour with many well-rendered the Burton group, the writer would is a member of our church, and grants arrived from the Caribbean musical items, especially from the like to thank Pastor Selburn Fray and Keith Dyer, who has been attending to start a new life. He worked in the male Northampton group and from his team for organising and making our church since this year. In his tailoring industry for most of his life. Bethel Children’s Choir. this weekend convention such a short sermon, Nicardo told the can- While in England, Brother Lawrence This was followed by an hour in success. didates that if they put their hands strayed away from the faith for thir- which appreciation was expressed to MRS O. MARR The honorees in the Master’s hand everything will ty years but since he returned he Levi Lawrence enjoys his birthday celebrations

12 Messenger Messenger 13 of appreciation, positive question grants were to succeed, they needed to and our use of words, as well as ERIC SAMUEL BURTON, Sr embrace the vision of Marcus Mosiah ‘sitting thoughts’, ‘using humour and (1921-2009) d. 22 January. Garvey and seek ways to empower the Watering Hole community. Buoyed by this vision, after comedy’ and ‘exploring the Psalms’. Karen’s creative skills were also On 5 May 1921 Eric Samuel Burton was Industrious to the core, Eric’s day did he purchased his home, he would en- born in Santiago de Cuba on the beauti- not end with cabinet making. In the sure that new arrivals had the opportu- evident in her workshop ‘Writing the ful Caribbean island of Cuba. His par- evenings, he would work as a conductor nity to ‘rent a bed’ at a reasonable price witness by Rosemary Lethbridge Journey’, where each participant ents, Charles and Anita, were Jamaican on the famous ‘chi chi buses’, operated that would allow them to save. He was was encouraged to be imaginative in missionaries who were devoted mem- by the Jamaica Omnibus Service. His also one of the first West Indians to start tracing their life journey. bers of the Seventh-day Adventist multiple streams of income were also a ‘Pardner’ in south London. As a result Jesus loves to hear his followers sing their praises said that we had Sharon’s second presentation Church. As a son of Anglophones in a enhanced by his established clientele of his efforts, scores of people were em- to him. In Luke 19 Jesus says that if we don’t made a signifi- was ‘Words in Season’, where she Spanophone country, Eric’s early search that would purchase the day-old loaves powered to use their savings along praise and witness then the ‘very stones will cry cant contribution travelled around the seasons and for identity mirrored that of the newly of bread he acquired from Mr Wong. with their ‘first and last draw’ as down out’. The Watering Hole church plant did not use towards their asked the participants to write down independent Cuba. It was only two While he advanced in his entrepre- payments for their homes. stones; it was puppets that did the witnessing achieving the what the seasons meant to them. decades before his birth that Cuba had neurial endeavours, the spirit of war In addition to his contribution to the over the Christmas period. highest sales ‘Life is a Journey – Write it Well’, broken from American rule, and less that compelled the Burton family to economic empowerment of his commu- Our church plant puppet team, called REACH figure in a single than five years before independence leave Cuba would summon Eric to new nity, Mr Burton also believed in provid- the theme for the conference, was Cuban residents had been under the shores. The armies of Adolf Hitler had ing opportunities for social engagement. (Reaching Everyone and Changing Hearts), was day. Others said the title of the seminar delivered by invited to witness for three hours in December on we brought a colonial yoke of Spain. challenged Jamaica’s colonial master, A lover of Caribbean music, he would the writer. This session centred on During this politically turbulent and King George VI pressed his far-flung often fire up his sound system on week- a busy Sabbath afternoon in Southampton city much needed Christmassy feel to the shopping tics team made contributions to the programme. the benefits of spiritual journaling time, the young Eric – aka Boysie – subjects into service as the major world ends as folk from the entire region centre’s third largest shopping centre. Members of centre, and the centre management were happy One family so enjoyed the performance that their and was accompanied by a booklet would have witnessed events surround- powers confronted each other for the would descend en masse on 27 Balham the public adjusted their shopping schedules, with the professionalism and conduct of all 16-year-old son who had missed it said that he of the same title with exercises ing Gerardo Machado y Morales’s sus- second time in a century. Upon his en- Grove. With other like-minded individu- security guards took a break from looking out for involved. Invitations have been extended for us would definitely be there next year. for the participants to take with pension of the Cuban constitution and listment in the Royal Air Force (RAF), als Mr Burton would eventually become shoplifters and joined other members of the public to do something similar in two of the shopping REACH have also volunteered their time and them. Naomi Best, chaplain at the later revolution led by Sergeant the sought-after Kingston cabinet maker a principal founding director and mem- in enjoying the performance. The puppets sang centres over Easter. skills to set up REACH UP, a puppet team for Stanborough Secondary School, and Fulgencio Batista. While Cuba trans- became Aircraftman Eric Burton. ber of the Balham and Tooting Social and played musical instruments, and while But the puppets witnessing did not stop there. junior-school-age children. Anthea Davis, a history teacher at formed into a totalitarian socialist soci- Always conscious of the sanctity of Club. His civic activities earned him a scenery was being changed we had opportunities The following week they were the star attraction in Both teams have been asked to visit the chil- ety, Boysie’s parents decided to human life, Aircraftman Burton was a stellar reputation in the Balham com- the same school, shared some of transition to other pastures. Anita would conscientious objector, who nonetheless munity and beyond. He had the respect to speak and hand out literature. One shop was so a community carol service in Totton that drew a dren’s wards at the local hospital. Plans for 2009 their poetry about challenging times impressed by what they had seen that they gave a crowd of over 130 unchurched people. The carol include Easter and Christmas evangelism, hospital take the children back to her family carried out his assignments conscien- of the leading men in the community in their life journey. Their ability homestead in St Mary, Jamaica, and tiously. His warm personality endeared and was often called upon for advice in T-shirt to each puppeteer. service had a creative arts feel to it, as the local performances and a musical, working with other to be vulnerable about their life Charles would chart the course for the him to many, and he was especially issues of race relations. On a follow-up visit to the centre two shops school choir and members from the local gymnas- creative art clubs in the area. experiences was truly appreciated. family’s immigration to the United lauded when he and other Caribbean Upon retirement at the age of 65, the And poetry was one of the work- States of America. servicemen lobbied their squadron normally healthy Eric experienced some Senior members’ appreciation The service preceded the baptismal after another, giving a description of Adventist Writers and Editors shops delivered by Alex Mowbray in After settling in the rural district of leader to broaden the bland menu with severe health problems. On two occa- service at the Liverpool (Kensington) the work that they had done for the the afternoon. Alex is a gifted poet, Mile Gulley, Eric was enrolled in the the inclusion of West Indian delicacies. sions, his doctors calmly informed him service church in the afternoon, and was various churches, before giving them re-launch who although not an Adventist is a Mount Angus Elementary School where While in the RAF, Aircraftman Burton that he had only months to live. He out- committed Christian who has he excelled in academics. Following in also had the opportunity to interact lived them both! Apparently, his On Sabbath 31 January, the organised by local pastor, Ebenezer a special gift and a certificate of Adventist Writers and Editors the footsteps of his eloquent mother, he with black servicemen from the United longevity was due to some serious life Merseyside district of churches Daniel. appreciation. He was assisted by (A.W.E.) held its official re-launch on attended several of A.W.E.’s pro- was also a skilled orator and would win States of America. Blacks in the choices. Although a pensioner, he de- showed its appreciation for the Following a song service and a church elder Enna Rey from the Sunday 1 February at the grammes over the years. His poetry the local oratorical contest every year. In American military were often fearful of cided to return to the swimming pool contribution made by some senior prayer of meditation, church elder Liverpool (Kensington) church and Stanborough Centre. ‘Life is a is Christ-centred, biblically-based addition to his intellectual prowess, Eric entering social establishments fre- for regular exercise. More significant for members to the work and life of the Felix DaSilva from the Wallasey Pastor Daniel. Journey – Write it Well’ was the title and deeply moving. He was one of was a man who mastered the art of quented by whites. With the encourage- him was the decision to return to the church over the past several years. church called out the members one Among those recognised were of the conference that focused on two non-Adventists who attended practical living. His agricultural skills ment of Eric and others, many of them Church of his childhood, and on his church elders Frederick Mativo and the therapeutic benefits of spiritual the programme. Marlene Morday were enviable, and he had the uncanny gained the confidence to confront and 70th birthday, Eric Samuel Burton, Sr Edward Wilson, who had been writing. was invited by Josette Constance ability of producing the biggest and best overcome those mental segregation was reborn in Christ and accepted into GBK banquet instrumental in the establishment of Sharon Platt-McDonald, the BUC from the Harlow church. Marlene of whatever he planted. He also had a barriers. membership of the Balham Seventh-day knack for fishing and was an avid At the conclusion of World War II, Adventist church. On Sunday 18 January the GBK church Community Services department the Stoneycroft church about two Health Ministries director, opened actively participated in the pro- gramme and wants to use the hunter of edible birds, which would be Eric returned to Jamaica with newly ac- With renewed vigour, Brother organised a banquet for the senior church members and people from the local years ago; church elder Robert the conference with her seminar quickly plucked, cleaned, seasoned and quired joinery skills. He accepted em- Burton continued to challenge, entertain community. Young Pathfinders participated. Grailey, whose untiring work in per- entitled ‘Healing Words’. Utilising not knowledge that she has gained to transformed into a succulent stew – ployment from renowned contractors and inspire. He was determined to enjoy The well-attended event started with a mini thanksgiving service conduct- sonal ministry has contributed to the only her writing background but her write more. She plans to develop hence one of his nicknames: ‘Bud-soup’! Higgs and Hill and was involved in the life to the fullest, and would divide his ed by Pastor Steve Palmer. saturation of the Wirral district of status as a qualified health practi- a series of cards, combining her Rural life in Mile Gulley was chal- construction of a number of notable time between England and Jamaica. As Following that, and in a pleasant, relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, Merseyside with Adventist literature; tioner, she provided documented evi- artistic and creative writing talents. lenging for Anita and her three surviv- structures, including Mona Hospital, the family patriarch, Eric was always delicious, appetising meals were served. At the end of it all, some talented Pat Hilderbrandt, whose quiet devo- dence to show that words are pow- CATHERINE ANTHONY BOLDEAU ing children. However, Charles’ regular buildings at the University of the West noticeably present at family events, and tion to personal ministry and harvest erful in the emotional healing and disbursements of cash from the United Indies and several large banks in maintained his independence to the senior citizens presented humorous stories from Jamaica. The evening ended Year 3/4 teacher required happily as the youth entertained the guests with musical instruments and ingathering are rarely proclaimed, development of human beings. States allowed the family to live in rela- Kingston. During this time, he met and very end. Newbold Primary School is seeking to tive comfort. Things were to change eventually married Violet Murray with On 22 January 2009 Eric Samuel songs. DELVA M. CAMPBELL but make a considerable contribu- Drawing on words from the Psalms, appoint a teacher for Year 3/4. The tion to the Liverpool (Kensington) she expounded on the fact that successful candidate will be required to suddenly when a delayed telegram in- whom he shared six children, one of Burton was once again compelled to re- commence in September 2009. formed the Burtons that Charles had whom (Roy) preceded him in death locate as a result of warfare – a war that church; Ethlyn White, whose deep words can heal, but ‘words can If you would like to join a committed, succumbed to death – a situation that while still an infant. began at the beginning of time; a war spirituality, devotion to personal hurt’. professional team; are familiar with the thrust Eric to the helm of ‘man of the In 1954 Eric transferred to a Higgs that introduced death to our reality. He ministry and motherly guidance of ‘Restoring, Re-storying’ – narra- National Curriculum; are keen to keep abreast with current educational practices; house’. and Hill plant in London. His company has been laid to rest, but one day soon the Women’s Ministries and tive therapy techniques for explorers enjoy being part of a learning and faith After passing the local high school loyalty and superior work ethic at- the Life-giver will return and usher him Community Services departments – was an interactive session about community, please send CV along with exam, Eric chose a practical career path tracted the attention of his superiors, to the place of his final destination. covering letter to the Head Teacher, and became the apprentice of one As Eric sleeps, he leaves to mourn over the years have helped establish the importance of stories in our Newbold Primary School, Popeswood and he was soon promoted to the super- a vibrant women’s ministry in the lives. Karen Holford, Associate Road, Binfield, Bracknell, Berks, RG12 Brother James, who nurtured him in the visory position of charge hand. When his memory one brother, Nehemiah Liverpool church; and Lorna Mason, Family Ministries director (South 5AH. carpentry trade. Always an eager and the company was taken over by (Cynthia); five children, Lorraine whose work in the Children’s England Conference), was the tutor For information about the post please proficient learner, he soon spread his Holloway Brothers, Eric continued to (Ken), Shirley (Lloyd), Marjorie contact Mrs Pat Eastwood at Newbold wings and moved to Kingston, where he gain favour in his employers’ sight and (Marshall), Rosemary (Peter), Eric Jr Ministries and Pathfinder depart- for this activity. Using her skills Primary School. Tel: 01344 421 088 or decided to specialise in cabinet making he worked diligently until retirement. (June); fourteen grandchildren; twelve ments has helped shape many boys as a writer, occupational and email: [email protected] Appropriate checks will be carried out. and opened a shop on Princess Street. Eric’s dedication to service tran- great-grandchildren; sixteen nieces and and girls into spiritual young men family therapist, she delivered an Applicants are also required to have the His meticulous approach to his task and scended the workplace. Having lived in nephews, and a host of other relatives and women with a sound Adventist excellent presentation about ‘using right to work in the UK. his affable persona ensured his business the United Kingdom during World War and friends. Application deadline 31 March 2009 footing. MERLVIN MOYO metaphors’ in our lives, ‘the power success. II, he knew that if West Indian immi- DR KEITH AUGUSTUS BURTON

14 Messenger Messenger 15 my respects owing to ill-health, but would like to thank Pastor Paul Meet Gene Kol Mailbox Smith and Chris Peake, who have by Sharon Platt-McDonald been very kind to her over the years. Gene Kol currently serves as the The Church and democracy Owing to a short service, not much BUC National CHIP coordinator, Dear Editor could be said, so at this point we responsible for leading the imple- I have been a member of the would also like to thank the staff of mentation and development of CHIP Seventh-day Adventist Church for the home, who cared for her so in the British Isles. As part of Gene’s over sixty years. However, there is faithfully till the end. induction to the post, she attended something that has puzzled me: We look forward to meeting her the Corporate CHIP training in Why, being a Christian Church, has it again in that heavenly home. She is Rockford, USA, and is now qualified adopted the policy of democracy in now at rest. as a Corporate CHIP director with order to bring about decisions? ALVA SMITH for the members of Oulton Broad church the remit of introducing CHIP to ARRAS TRENEAR, Redruth external organisations. She also for this programme to the church Suicide attended the CHIP Summit in board to discuss if this would be Editor replies: The Reformation Dear Editor Orlando, Florida, for the advanced an option for your church. was about the democratisation of Re articles ‘Suicide’ (Messenger 6 CHIP training, the purpose of which • Gene will visit your church and Christian institutions as well as about February), those who believe there is justification by faith. Churches in the no forgiveness for suicide need to is to bring holistic health to the those interested and offer a Reformed tradition, like our own, have community. This has the added two-hour workshop in which all followed the electoral process to read Hebrews 11:32-40, where a advantage of being an excellent the finer details are given on determine leadership and have left suicide is listed amongst those who evangelistic tool. how to go about facilitating the decision-making to elected leaders gained ‘a good report through faith’! CHIP stands for Coronary programme. and elected committees. His name was Samson! Health Improvement Project – a • Once you set the date, she will Among the alternative models are PASTOR ROY E. HULBERT, Kettering community-based lifestyle change advise you how to register your the Papacy (the Pope) and what is programme, which runs for a period church and order the materials called Episcopacy (bishops). Corby church plant now meets at The of thirty days. It has been scientifi- for the programme. Church of the Epiphany, Elizabeth Street, What happened to captions? Corby, NN17 1PN cally validated and peer reviewed, • The training the trainers Sabbath School at 10am, and case studies have proved that programme – MicroCHIP – (This was a P.S. to a personal letter Divine Service at 11.30am. it is able to reverse chronic lifestyle takes place in your church. and was not meant for publication. illnesses such as Type 2 diabetes, • When this has successfully taken However, it asks a question to ABC BOOK SALES which I, too, would like to have the March hypertension, atherosclerosis, obesi- place, the team is established 22 Stan Park Church 10am-2pm ty and depression. It also can help to and planning for the CHIP pro- answer! Editor) 22 Southampton 10.30am-2.30pm lower high cholesterol and improve gramme gets underway. Gene will P.S. I continue to enjoy MESSENGER – then offer support and guidance so colourful and newsy. And I like April other lifestyle-related illnesses. It is 5 John Loughborough 10.30am-2pm both participative and demonstra- throughout the whole process. your photos! My only suggestion 5 Bradford 10.30am-2pm tive, involving food demonstration, If you would like to run a would be that you guys use more captions. When I see a news photo, ABC Shops educational DVDs, workbooks, week- MicroCHIP in your church or CHIP Watford, BUC. Due to the recent fire, the ABC ly goal setting and a number of other programme for the community, I immediately want to know two shop in Watford is closed until further notice facilitative aspects. For more infor- please contact Gene Kol. Her contact things: Who are those people? What Advent Centre, Sundays 11am-3pm mation on CHIP visit www.chip details are as follows: are they doing? I don’t want to read health.org and www.adventist Gene Kol the entire article to find out. chip.org. BUC National CHIP Coordinator, ROY ADAMS, Silver Spring Messenger Since commencing with the BUC Corporate CHIP director Volume 114 • 6 – 20 March 2009 Gene has contacted close to forty +44 1923 672 51 Editor replies: Are captions a victim EDITOR: D. N. MARSHALL of email? The fact that pictures arrive churches to assist in the facilitation +44 1727 872162 DESIGN: DAVID BELL as a separate attachment (as they COPY FOR No. 8 – 30 March 2009 of the CHIP programme. Realising +44 7966 713469 should) means that the Communica- Copy should be sent to the Editor, MESSENGER, The the potential of health ministry to [email protected] Stanborough Press Limited, Alma Park, Grantham, tion secretary must caption them. Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. impact lives, Gene says of her role: www.chipuk.org.uk Occasionally, I know one or two Fax No: (01476) 577144. people on a picture but, unless I Email:[email protected] ‘My mission statement is to allow Send high resolution pictures to: God to use me in his healing min- Wanted: Used computers know them all, it is unfair to write the [email protected] If you have any good used computers names of those I know. So let’s have ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 istry, whether it be physical, emo- which you are willing to donate to our the old ‘left to right’! Mon-Thurs only, 8am- 5.30pm. tional or spiritual healing and to be Adventist schools in St Lucia, please www.stanboroughpress.com contact Pastor Andrew Leonce by email: the enabler of people who wish to The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand [email protected] or telephone Remembering Gwyneth articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. live more effective lives in the UK 07971218101 Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British and Ireland communities.’ With profound gratitude, Andrew Leonce Dear Editor Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. If you are interested in using I am writing to pay tribute to Mrs Printed in Denmark. STANBOROUGH SECONDARY SCHOOL Gwyneth Mudford from Oulton Broad Visit the BUC website at:www.adventist.org.uk CHIP as an evangelistic tool, Gene VACANCY ISSN 0309-3654 will make an appointment to meet Full-time teacher required from September church. Gwyneth came to live here with you and your team to support ’09 able to teach History up to International in the flats in 2003 and over the Sunset Baccalaureate and English to KS3 levels. years we have enjoyed her friend- Sunset times are reproduced with permission from you in the running of a programme Applicants should hold a History degree, a data supplied by the Science Research Council. and guide you through the process. teaching qualification, relevant experience ship very much. She was faithful in Lond Card Nott Edin Belf She offers the following: and have authorisation to work in the UK. coming to the meetings even when Mar 20 6.14 6.26 6.18 6.27 6.37 Application forms, available from the 27 6.26 6.38 6.31 6.41 6.51 • An invitation for you to make school, and a current CV should be sent to not well. Eventually, through age and April 3 7.37 7.50 7.43 7.55 8.04 contact with her to discuss the Judy McKie, PA to Head Teacher, failing sight, she went into The Dell 10 7.49 8.01 7.56 8.10 8.18 Stanborough School, Stanborough Park, and even there spread the Gospel MESSENGER SUBSCRIPTIONS process of commencing a Watford, WD25 9JT, or [email protected] message. Cost to member supplied in bulk to churches £6. MicroCHIP or CHIP programme. by 25 March 2009. Further information is Single copy subscription by post £13. • Advice on how to take your plans available from the school. I was sorry not to be able to pay Overseas airmail £27.50

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