Pandemic of racism AN ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PERSPECTIVE 10
NEWS COVID-19 ASSISTANCE PLAN TO SUPPORT MISSIONS 4
ADVENTIST RECORD | JULY 4, 2020 ISSN 0819-5633
editor’s note
‘I am a recovering racist’
“Ah, you’ve got jungle fever.” I’d just told this person life being lost was justified (again, no-one deserves to my girlfriend was a Pacific Islander. I knew they were die). All of these things many of us do without thinking, joking, that they often had a cheeky, irreverent wit. I conditioned to look for blame elsewhere and ignoring don’t remember how I responded but, 13 years later, I the call to love and support people and to change the do remember the comment. systems that have created these conditions in the first When I wrote an editorial about cross-cultural place. We tell ourselves comfortable lies. marriage, I received a letter telling me that I should But I am trying to be aware of my own biases, the keep my marriage because God requires no divorce, holes in my education and experiences that leave me but that we should never have children, because—I blind to the cries of the marginalised. don’t remember the exact words—“half breeds were an In the culture and systems I grew up in, comfortable abomination”. The comment had the potential to tear prejudice often went unquestioned. “Good”, conserva- the heart out of a young couple wrestling with infertility. tive, middle-class values were suspicious of the “other” Lucky I’ve been diagnosed by my doctor as having thick and threatened by change. Anything outside that experi- skin. I chose not to share it with my wife. ence was suspect. I have thought about how having a brown wife might In recent weeks I’ve been privileged and humbled to impact my career in the Church, how people might have had conversations with an African-American, two receive us if we went into pastoral ministry or some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and a Papua other role. I’m hopeful to say I don’t think it would have New Guinean about racial inequality and the Church. too much impact. But I wasn’t sure all those years ago. To listen to their points of view and hear their heart for These examples are mild compared to what some healing and for their people has been helpful, informa- people have lived through. But well-meaning, good- tive and so important. hearted church members are allowed to get away with Being married to a Pacific Islander, I have been forced comments like this in Sabbath schools and potluck to unlearn some of my prejudiced attitudes. Yet they conversations, while the rest of us, although we might are still there, lurking in the dark caverns of my subcon- feel uncomfortable, say nothing. scious. Jokes that come at the expense of another people But most importantly, it is God who calls me to group, belief system or gender are not funny. They change my heart. The same God who made all human- are hurtful and propagate false stereotypes and narra- kind in His image. The book of Jonah carries a strong tives. Any feeling of superiority against another group message against the elitism and racism of Israel. Paul in of people is suspect and should be interrogated. This the New Testament declares that all are equal in Christ includes our Adventist feelings of superiority against (Colossians 3:11). This is not saying “All Lives Matter”. other religious groups. I am not speaking against some- Paul is saying that no-one is superior to any other. We thing that I have not been complicit in. don’t need to diminish or dismiss distinctions of race or I am a recovering racist. I repent. I have heard and class, but they are not the judgement value system of passed on jokes about Aboriginals and other minorities the kingdom. in my life. I have sat through conversations that perpetu- So, please join me. Listen, learn and educate yourself ated unkind or untrue stereotypes and not said anything. about the experience and history of These attitudes continue in my reactions to another others. Let God remake your heart. brown or black death on the news. It’s easy to look for There is no room blame, to find support for the narrative that the victim for prejudice in the Jarrod Stackelroth deserved it (no-one deserves to die), to grab statis- Christian faith. Senior Editor tics that stereotype a whole group of people, as if that /JStackelroth
senior consulting editor graphic designer noticeboard adventist media glenn townend linden chuang [email protected] locked bag 1115 senior editor template designer subscriptions wahroonga nsw 2076 australia jarrod stackelroth theodora pau’u [email protected] + 61 (02) 9847 2222 assistant editor noticeboard + 61 (03) 5965 6300 cover credit maryellen fairfax julie laws mailed within australia and getty images—kerriekerr abn 59 093 117 689 copyeditors letters nz $A43.80 $NZ73.00 other “An Aboriginal boy.” vol 125 no 13 tracey bridcutt [email protected] prices on application. kent kingston news & photos website melody tan [email protected] record.adventistchurch.com
JuLY 4, 2020 | Adventist record 3 news
Human signs COVID-19 assistance plan to support missions X Æ A-Xii is the name Elon Musk, the maverick billionaire who recently financed tracey bridcutt the first private trip into space, tried to A COVID-19 assistance plan call his son. Isaiah, the prophet, was told by God to name his child Maher-Sha- will support mission offices lal-Hash-Baz, meaning quick to plunder, struggling financially as a result swift to spoil (Isaiah 8:1–4). He was told of COVID-19. before his wife was pregnant to register The plan was approved by the name with the priest and write a sign the South Pacific Division (SPD) about it. Later, Isaiah was asked by God to boards during their recent quar- The SPD head office in Sydney take his clothes off (Isaiah 20:1-4) and live terly meetings. has been close to empty during naked for three years (I am pleased God SPD CFO Rodney Brady said a COVID restrictions. has not called me to be such a prophet!). number of missions have been Why something so bizzare? The child’s adversely affected by a reduction of need when times are tough or name and the prophet’s nakedness were in tithe and offerings due to the to assist growth in prosperous signs for others. Before Maher-Shalal- economic fallout of COVID-19, times,” Mr Brady said. Hash-Baz could say “Daddy” or “Mummy”, leaving some struggling to pay Trans Pacific Union Mission the king of Assyria would plunder Damas- pastors’ wages. president Pastor Maveni Kau- cus and Samaria. Isaiah’s nakedness was “Other missions have not been fononga welcomed the SPD’s a sign to Ethiopia and Egypt that Assyria materially impacted at this point, support. would lead away naked captives from but we don’t know what the “We really appreciate this ini- those two countries in shame. impact will be over the months tiative from the SPD to assist us Signs give people direction. Being a ahead, so the plan has been financially during this crisis,” he sign suggests people are watching. Sadly, said. “It will help to sustain our Syria, Israel, Ethiopia and Egypt did not designed to cope with a situation take any notice of the signs given them. well beyond reductions currently workforce and direct us to stay God’s prophetic people are a sign. “A being reported,” Mr Brady said. focused with God’s mission. great and wonderous sign appeared in Unlike in Australia and New “This act of generosity makes heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, Zealand, there is no government the theme of the recent SPD with the moon under her feet and a crown financial support for employers Sabbath a reality: #weRthe- of 12 stars on her head” (Revelation 12:1). in Papua New Guinea and other CHURCH.” In Bible prophecy, the woman is a Pacific countries. As part of the COVID-19 symbol of God’s people, the church “It is better to have a funded assistance plan, the SPD boards (Ezekiel 16; Ephesians 5:22-33). In Reve- plan that is more robust than approved an allocation of lation, the rest of the world and universe having to keep adjusting,” Mr $A654,000 to support Avon- watch the woman deal with persecution, Brady said. “As I look across the dale University College, which false teaching and popularity thrown at SPD the impact on tithe overall is is facing financial challenges her by the devil. But the church survives, not as much as many thought it due to the coronavirus pan- even thrives, because of God’s support may have been when COVID-19 demic. With students moving off and intervention. started to impact economies and campus, Avondale has had a loss People are watching us to see how we churches closed in many coun- of income for its dormitories, are handling the pandemic lockdown, how tries. We need to give God the cafeteria and other facilities, but we treat our antagonistic neighbours, glory for sustaining His church.” it still has the cost of maintaining whether we protest. those facilities. Whether we like it or not, we are signs To cover the cost of the of God’s work in our lives. In the end, assistance plan, there will be The SPD Property Trust has obedience to God’s commandments and a redirection of 2020-21 SPD also implemented strategies holding the testimony of Jesus (Revelation strategy funding, a reduction in to financially support Sydney 12:17) are the two important character- general appropriations and the Adventist Hospital, which expe- istics. withdrawal of some existing rienced a loss of income due With God’s support funding approvals. However, any to non-urgent elective surgery and intervention may we unused strategy funding will be restrictions implemented by be good signs! returned to the strategy budget. the Australian government in Glenn townend “This is the benefit of our response to COVID-19. Those SPD president Church structure where we can restrictions have now been /SPDpresident shift resources to support areas eased.
4 Adventist record | JuLY 4, 2020 ADRA secures $1.7m for cyclone relief tracey bridcutt ADRA offices in the South Pacific ADRA’s emergency have secured funding of more than response activities have $A1.7 million to support communities been supported by multiple devastated by Tropical Cyclone Harold. funding partners, includ- The cyclone struck Fiji, Solomon ing ADRA International, Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu in April, Australia’s Department of leaving many families homeless; Foreign Affairs and Trade, destroying schools, medical centres the Church of Jesus Christ and other community facilities and of Latter-day Saints, New damaging water and food sources. Zealand’s Ministry of adra volunteers in vanuatu. ADRA has been at the forefront of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the relief effort, supporting thousands and the United Nations Development with the aftermath of a tropical of people by focusing on six different Program. cyclone and managing the challenges sectors: Food security and livelihood Along with helping communities of a response in a COVID-19 environ- (24,950 people supported); water, impacted by Cyclone Harold, ADRA ment is more than most of us could sanitation and hygiene (12,034); has also been supporting families handle,” ADRA South Pacific regional psychosocial support (22,500); shelter experiencing hardship as a result of director Greg Young said. and home rebuilding (2516); education the COVID-19 pandemic. In partner- “Nevertheless, the ADRA teams (300) and community development ship with Adventist churches, ADRA always step up to the mark and I am (10). has helped more than 2000 families incredibly proud of them for the work Support has taken the form of in Australia and 1000 in New Zealand. they have done and continue to do immediate aid—providing families with ADRA teams have also been raising under such stressful circumstances. cash vouchers and essentials such as awareness about COVID-19 and com- I want to give thanks to God for the soap and clean water—and assistance municating health messages in Pacific ADRA staff and volunteers as well as to restore livelihoods, including the communities. those who support with their dona- provision of agricultural kits. “Talk about tough going—dealing tions and prayers.”
New school dedicated in the Solomons Maclean Jilini/Record staff There was much joy and excitement gara district leader Pastor Kele Hana. assistance to build two dormitories. A at the dedication of a new Advent- Among the attendees was Solomon generator and electrical equipment was ist school in Central Kolombangara, Islands Mission education director Billy donated by a Solomon Islands educa- Solomon Islands, on May 18. Leta. Dedicatory prayers were offered tion support team in Australia, led by Many locals came to celebrate the by pastors Vince David, Mockson Wale Pastor Ray Eaton, Pastor Alex Currie dedication service for Patpaele Advent- and Piuki Tasa. and Brett Partridge. The Australian ist Secondary School. The service The opening of the boarding school team are also providing desks and was organised by Central Kolomban- received widespread support from chairs for the students. Three 2000- local youth groups, church and litre water tanks were donated by Gizo/ community leaders, church Kolombangara MP Lanelle Tanangada. members, government and The new school commenced with church education authorities, 33 students and four teaching staff, and landowners within Central including the principal Alson Vavozo. Kolombangara. One urgent need is for permanent The school includes a main sanitation facilities, as students are classroom building, four staff currently using pit toilets while staff use houses, a staff/students’ kitchen a pour-flush toilet. Kitchen and dining and temporary toilets, all built hall facilities for the students and within a year. The Solomon teachers are also needed. Islands Ministry of Education The school administration is now and Human Resources Devel- planning an official opening for the The new school started with 33 students. opment provided financial school.
JuLY 4, 2020 | Adventist record 5 Fulton partners with the Fiji Police Academy RECORD STAFF Fulton Adventist University College Last year Fulton signed a is playing a key role in the continuing memorandum of understanding professional development of instruc- with COL and the TVET training tors from the Fiji Police Academy. program is seen as the start of Fulton presented the first study an ongoing relationship to build module of the National Certificate of on the learning capabilities of a Teaching in Technical Vocational Edu- wide range of vocational groups cation and Training (TVET) program across the Pacific. The plan is to Some of the officers from the Fiji Police Academy for the academy’s instructors and lec- assist students through a lifelong who were involved in the training sessions. turers on June 1 to 5. This was one of learning program to see their four modules that will be presented by TVET certification as a step toward sense of God’s calling to our vocations lecturers from Fulton as the academy higher qualifications. and the belief in our social responsibil- staff complete the course over the “The TVET course, which is accred- ity to offer hope and purpose to those remainder of 2020. ited by the Fiji Higher Education we meet”. The TVET program was developed Commission, was developed as a pilot “Our plans to conduct morning in partnership with the Fiji Higher program by the Australia-Pacific Tech- worship with the ‘students’ proved Education Commission and the nical College, making this a very inter- unnecessary as they started each day Commonwealth of Learning (COL), esting development partnership,” said with a hymn and prayer and the Fulton an inter-governmental organisation Fulton principal Dr Malcolm Coulson. staff closed each day with prayer,” he established by the Commonwealth Dr Coulson said Fulton was chosen said. “We look forward to completing Heads of Government for the purpose by the academy “in light of shared the TVET training at the academy and of promoting sustainable develop- values and the philosophical founda- to work with other organisations to ment through education and lifelong tions of our views on wholistic edu- support their professional development learning. cation, service to our communities, a aspirations.”
6 Adventist record | JuLY 4, 2020 TOTAL MEMBER INVOLVEMENT FEEDS HUNDREDS news grabs maryellen fairfax Adventist churches across Fiji recently Districts for the vegetable and the root joined together for a Total Member crops, Tavua District for your contri- Involvement (TMI) initiative to deliver butions to part of the groceries. A big food packs to workers and families who vinaka vakalevu [thank you very much] have lost jobs, income or have otherwise to the ladies who provided the lunch been negatively affected by COVID-19. and those who provided transport and Church members from Lautoka those who packed and distributed. Thank Adventist Church, Ra East district, Ba you for putting smiles on people in need deaf connect online district, Tavua district and Namosi today.” Adventist Deaf Ministries Inter- district, as well as the Fiji Mission, joined According to reports, hotel workers, national, in partnership with the forces to deliver hundreds of food packs flight attendants and families who have Inter-European Division, hosted a one-hour online meeting for deaf containing fresh vegetables and essential lost their jobs joyfully received the food and deaf-blind Adventists around the items to people in Nadi on Fiji’s west packs and were very grateful to the world on May 31. Attended by 230 coast, and Viseisei Village, located half Church for its efforts. people, the program included brief an hour’s drive north of Nadi. speeches to keep attention high and creative poems and songs presented The TMI effort was in sign language.—IED described on Lautoka District’s Facebook page: “In the middle of our crisis, we see a ray of hope through people who allow themselves to be used by God to share God’s love. Vinaka [thank you] Fiji Mission for providing the finance, Ra East and Ba Some young men who volunteered to help. a third of the way A media-thon run by Northern Caribbean University’s Alumni Kiribati radio station brings hope Federation raised $US350,000 on May 24. The event was the official tracey bridcutt launch of a fundraiser that aims to A listener survey conducted by Hope “In every 100 homes visited in the raise $US1 million by July 31 to Radio in Kiribati has found that many crowded town of Betio, an average of 50 support students financially chal- lenged by COVID-19, and as a result homes listen to Hope Radio, or 5 out of people who have been tuning in to the of reduced income and funding from radio station are now seeking Bible 10 homes,” Mr Angiraoi said. local Adventist conferences.—AR studies. “But the most interesting part of the Hope Radio announcer Tarataake survey is that a lot of listeners are asking Angiraoi said the radio station has for Bible studies and . . . Bible studies been working with young people from are being carried out at Betio, Bonriki, Adventist churches in Tarawa to conduct Korobu Buota and Bairiki.” the survey of around 5000 homes. One of the church members, a former According to the survey, of those people pastor of another denomination, has who own radios, most of them are tuning visited almost 100 homes himself and in to Hope Radio. has contacts interested in Bible studies. “What can we say but to praise the the gift of education Lord for His goodness . . . we hope God Oakwood University in Alabama, will raise Bible study teachers from the USA—categorised as an “historically black college or university”—has seven churches in Tarawa to follow up established a George Floyd Memorial on the survey and carry out the needed Scholarship. “What better way to Bible studies in many homes,” Mr memorialise George Floyd than to Angiraoi said. bless some young man with the gift of education!” said Oakwood Hope Radio is thankful for the support president Leslie Pollard.—Maquisha Even children helped to of donors who keep the radio station on Ford Mullins distribute the survey forms. the air.
JuLY 4, 2020 | Adventist record 7 hot topics Church makes statements on George Floyd jarrod stackelroth The Seventh-day Adventist Church “Jesus stood against racism and vio- in Australia (AUC) has joined church lence, so should we,” said Pastor Glenn leaders from around the world in Townend, SPD president. “I am praying condemning racism and violence in the for calm to come to the troubled parts aftermath of George Floyd’s death. of the world and that the gospel of AUC president Pastor Jorge Munoz Jesus will be triumphant—it is in reality released a statement on Facebook on the only hope.” tim keller diagnosed June 2 expressing sadness over the Here is the AUC statement in part: Popular Christian author and pastor events that had transpired in the United “The recent events in the USA Timothy Keller asked for prayers on States, while acknowledging that “in where a man, George Floyd, was killed June 7 as he told audiences that Australia, we too are not exempt from by a police officer have caused many to he would begin chemotherapy for similar issues, and as followers of Jesus feel angered, saddened and frustrated pancreatic cancer. Pastor Keller, 69, said he felt God present and felt we speak against a spirit of racism and at the injustice of this death. Many are physically great as he underwent of hate”. heavy-hearted after watching such an initial tests, biopsies and surgery. He Earlier that week, Pastor Ted atrocious act on their screens. A man is thankful that doctors caught the Wilson, president of the worldwide pleading for air who just wanted to cancer early.—Christianity Today Seventh-day Adventist Church, also breathe. The sense of powerlessness is released a statement in which he said indeed real. he had sent letters to the families of We feel for those who are mourning Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and and especially for his family. We also George Floyd on behalf of the Church. pray for the entire country. May God’s The families were also sent fruit Spirit impress the minds and hearts of baskets. all to be more like Christ. Pastor Wilson said “as Seventh-day In Australia, we too are not exempt Adventists we stand strongly on the from similar issues, and as followers australians less happy biblical principles that go against of Jesus we speak against a spirit of This year, Australia slipped from hatred, rage, racism, bigotry, evil racism and of hate. 11th to 12th place on the World surmising, prejudice, and more, and As followers of Jesus we are called Happiness Report, mostly due to offered the families support, hope and to create spaces where people can more negative responses from city-dwellers. Overall, global data encouragement through God’s church.” breathe freely in every way and feel revealed that in richer countries, The Seventh-day Adventist Church free from prejudice, burdens and sin people living in rural areas are in North America included the same . . .” happier than city-dwellers, but that names as Pastor Wilson in their state- You can read the full statement on in poorer countries, city-dwellers are usually happiest.—news.com.au ment, and urged their members to do our website:
8 Adventist record | JuLY 4, 2020 flashpoint
elma turns 100! Cooranbong (NSW) resident Elma community spirit church reopened Coombe celebrated her 100th At Betikama Adventist College freedom to learn Namatanai Adventist Church birthday on May 21. Although (Solomon Islands) during the Port Macquarie Adventist School (New Ireland Province, PNG), unable to have a party due to COVID-19 lockdown, teachers (NSW) has been experimenting which closed more than a COVID-19, she was greeted by and ancillary staff remained on with “flexible seating” during decade ago, reopened on April friends in the roadway of her campus. They felt that Betikama 2020, giving students the 10 after locals were introduced village. Elma has been a supporter was the safest place to be. The freedom to choose where they to the Discovery Bible Reading and member of the Women’s college’s administration organised sit, what they sit on and how (DBR) program. Following Christian Temperance Union 50 Days of Prayer readings for they position themselves in the an evangelistic campaign in (WCTU) for 92 years, being pres- each morning and evening and classroom. Some students prefer June 2019, small groups were ident of the Cooranbong WCTU two weekends of fasting and standing, while others prefer formed after many new contacts union for 10 years. When asked prayer, as well as working bees sitting on chairs, beanbags, expressed interest in studying to share her secret to longevity, and get-together meals to sustain stools or the ground. Results the Bible. During COVID-19, DBR she said, “There is no secret, but all families on campus facing are promising, with students has flourished in homes and at I have enjoyed a life of healthy difficulties with food supplies. being more settled, productive, new church plants, which led living—plant-based diet, good Seeing an opportunity to help, the willing to negotiate with others to the church’s reopening. The exercise. I enjoy having a positive BAC Alumni, under the leadership and showing more respect and branch church has an average attitude and I make my bed every of Jillian Tutuo, James Bauro responsibility throughout the day. attendance of 50 members every morning. I enjoy my relationship and Ronelle Panda, organised a Children in early stage one have Sabbath, and 12 have expressed with God and have faith that He donation-in-kind for the ancillary even begun spontaneous singing a desire to be baptised. will never leave me nor forsake staff, which was gratefully as a result of the new flexible —Adave Lua me.”—Joy Butler received.—Partinson Bekala arrangements.—PMAS Facebook
san doctor awarded Professor Simon Finfer, director of intensive care at Sydney have a Adventist Hospital, was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours on June 8. He was appointed an Officer in the news story? Order of Australia (AO) for his service to intensive care medicine, medical research and education, and for his service to global health institutes. Professor Finfer has been email it to on the team leading the San’s preparedness to deal with [email protected] the needs of the COVID-19 pandemic.—Record Staff
hot drinks for all celebrating reconciliation persistent prayers Members of Fox Valley Adventist Church To mark the 20th anniversary of Reconciliation Hillview Adventist Church (Morisset, NSW) (Wahroonga, NSW) have been serving hot Week (May 27–June 3), Brisbane Adventist celebrated five years of continual daily prayer drinks to residents of Elizabeth Lodge as College teachers—Principal Entermann, meetings on May 25. Since 2015, a group well as staff at Sydney Adventist Hospital, Mr Dever and Mr Quick—participated in a of between four and 21 people have been each Sabbath morning through May/June. symbolic “bridge walk” on campus each day. In meeting on the church premises at 5:30am The ministry is made possible thanks to a addition, Mrs Entermann, accompanied by two to share a short scripture and pray for 30 dedicated team of volunteers and donations Aboriginal students—Luana and Shakana (Year minutes. Not one day in five years has been from local cafes, including one donation of 50 10)—made a video publicly acknowledging the missed. During prayer time, the group uplifts litres of milk, which was used up in just one traditional custodians of the land upon which prayer requests and notifies church families morning.—Fox Valley Facebook the college is built.—BAC Facebook that they will be prayed for.—Mary Fedorow
JuLY 4, 2020 | Adventist record 9 pandemic of racism: an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspective
hile 2020 has seen the world caught in the Many countries, including those in our South Pacific Divi- COVID-19 pandemic, another important global sion, have histories embedded with racial inequality. Wissue has risen to the fore—the pandemic of Racism is a global problem that needs to be highlighted racism. On May 25, African-American man George Floyd on an international stage, so countries are compelled to was murdered by a white Minneapolis police officer. Mr make social and structural changes. Floyd’s death is one of several deaths recently at the hands I could not bring myself to view the video of George of law enforcement officers. Within hours of the live video Floyd’s last moments. The grief of injustice is so deep of his death going viral, the United States erupted in pro- and traumatic. It is a reminder of the many Indigenous tests and the movement gained momentum on the interna- people who have died unjustly at the hands of correctional tional stage. guards, police officers and the judicial system—those we In major cities across Australia and New Zealand, protest call public servants. In Australia, since 1991, more than rallies called for change, using the social media hashtag 430 Indigenous people have had their lives cut short while #blacklivesmatter (BLM). in the “care” of the judicial system. Each one of the cases represents families who have been impacted with a sense Why has the BLM cause so resonated with Indigenous of no justice because no conviction has ever been made for Australians? their deaths. Here in Australia the injustice called out by the protests It was in 1991 that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait is something Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Islander community’s demands for an official inquiry into are well acquainted with. Racism is real. It continues to deaths in custody were finally realised as a Royal Commis- plague our society. People are hurt by racism and when sion released its report. Since the Royal Commission many they see others going through racism, they join in and of its recommendations have not been followed and death support, to bring the issue to the attention of a wider com- rates have increased. So, with the BLM movement placing munity audience. the worldwide spotlight on racial inequality, the Indigenous People feel it is time for change. Racial attitudes have community has rallied together to call for action on the caused discrimination against people for a very long time. current situation in Australia.
10 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 How do you know if you are racist? I had transitioned to a new school and was enjoying Many people do not understand racism. the first term. I made lots of new friends and school was A recent study revealed stark evidence: Three in four fun to attend. Then in the second term, two boys joined people hold an unconscious racial bias against Aboriginal the school—twins. They were from another country where and Torres Strait Islanders.1 The study covered a 10-year they had had racist attitudes built within family structures. period and showed that most Australians hold an implicit They abused not only me but every other minority ethnic bias against Indigenous Australians. Further, the findings student in my class. All my white friends sided with them, found a link between racism and the impact on overall adding further momentum to their racial slurs. The notion health and helped explain why Indigenous people continue “just get along” works fine until intentional racism becomes to experience some of the poorest socioeconomic condi- unbearable and no matter what you do you are still a target. tions and living standards in the country and the world. It wears you down until you respond with anger and force, Most only recognise racism as extreme behaviour against and then you become “the angry kid that gets in trouble”. people of colour or of a different ethnicity—actions that the The Australian definition of racism, according to the KKK or other white extremists would take—however it is Macquarie Dictionary, is “the belief that human races have much more insidious than that. distinctive characteristics which determine their respective In a recent conversation, my neighbour said “I have cultures, usually involving the idea that one’s own race is grandchildren of colour; I don’t see colour” to qualify superior and has the right to rule or dominate others”. himself as a non-racist. He went on to say that “all lives Most people would not see themselves fitting into such a matter” and that “everyone should just get on together”. description. In light of the current movement, this issue with While this might sound like good counsel or evidence definition was brought to the attention of Merriam Web- of a balanced view, it actually demonstrates the opposite. ster’s Dictionary, which very recently altered their defini- If you have family members of colour and you are not in tion to state: “a doctrine or political program based on the tune with how they will be treated or disadvantaged simply assumption of racism and designed to execute its princi- because they have colour/pigment in their skin, how will ples” and “a political or social system founded on racism”, you be able to support them and show empathy to them which would cover systemic racism and oppression.2 when they are faced with racism? To not “see colour” is to completely disregard people’s value and the rich- ness that all people bring to the table. Having a meal and meaningful conver- sations with people of different ethnic backgrounds enriches us and adds value to our relationships. If you genuinely did think or feel that “all lives matter”, then you would be outraged along with many others because all lives do matter; this includes black people. Instead, the phrase is used dismissively and proves that the speaker is not interested in seeing the value in oppressed lives. Finally, the phrase “everyone should just get along” is easy to say when you are not the target. I know from experience. I have tried to “just get along”. My first encounter with racism at 11 years of age taught me that this notion simply doesn’t work if you are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned photographs in this magazine the target. may contain images of deceased persons which may cause sadness or distress.
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 11 As Seventh-day Adventist Christians what can we do about racism in Australia? The first thing is not to draw a line of separation of what is political and what is religious. Racism is a justice issue that affects our Church and community. Placing it in a political box prevents Christians having dialogue and seeking God’s counsel on how to apply biblical principles in the space. Taking it out of this box will help you to call it out when you hear it. Your awareness of racism will be heightened and you will become part of the solution to eradicating racism. Secondly, know your history. Australia has a black history. It is a shared history with all Australians. Schools need to teach the truth about history; we need to know what really happened from both sides of the story. Learn about places and events where you live. Know who your local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people groups are and how their story is connected to those places. Listening and understanding a person’s story helps us to show empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand or feel what another person is experiencing from within their frame of reference, by putting yourself in their shoes. Demonstrating empathy shows the other person we value them, their story and what they bring to the relationship. It doesn’t mean we agree with everything they share, but rather we listen, seeking to understand things from their perspective. This builds the relationship, rather than drawing lines of separation. This requires sitting and having genuine conversations with Indigenous people. Fourth, take on the ministry of Jesus—reconciliation. Jesus has entrusted His followers with the ministry of reconcilia- tion—to reconcile mankind to God and reconcile mankind to one another (2 Corinthians 5:19). Jesus taught by example. Rather than avoiding Samaria, He saw it as an opportunity to teach His disciples and to win people to Him. The story of the woman at the well (John 4) is about crossing lines of culture and misunderstanding for the disciples to learn the value of lost people and for the Samaritan woman to experi- ence salvation. Racism is real, it’s painful and it hurts people. We have more to gain and achieve if we understand the depth of racism and how it is embedded within our society, our structures and our institutions. Only then can we truly start building bridges that bring people together rather than walls that divide.
1. Shirodkar Siddharth (2019), “Bias against Indigenous Australians; Implicit associations test results for Australia online”. Journal of Austral- ian Indigenous Issues, Vol 22, No 3-4, Dec 2019: 3-34. 2.
darren garlett atsim director, australian union conference.
12 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 Living his word With Wayne Boehm
EMERGING FROM LOCKDOWN
Over the past few months, my guess is that regardless of age, you have become much more profi- cient in the use of the internet, Zoom and social media. During this lockdown, we’ve learnt a great deal about ourselves, our commu- Level up: how this charity challenge nity and our Church. Like it or not, got taken to the next level the past few months will forever change how we make disciples. If you were hoping for a return to normal when church resumes, we will miss a huge opportunity to t the height of COVID-19 iso- ADRA projects. connect and minister to the new lation, social media challenges ”I really love ADRA’s work, espe- online community that has now Aoccupied our screens. So cially with disaster relief and with become part of our lives. when university student Tom Do was the homeless feeds I’ve gone to. So I So, what are some key challenged to do 25 push-ups for 25 thought it would be great to generate reminders from Acts for the church days, he decided it was time to level some money for that.” emerging from lockdown? up—both in terms of the challenge He chose Redkite for their support The Church must: itself and the impact he could make. of people with cancer. ACTS 1:4, 12 be obedient to “I thought to myself, how could I “My friend’s mum passed away the words of Jesus. bump it up a bit? If I really wanted to from cancer a week before the walk, ACTS 1:5, 8, 13 look forward, raise awareness or generate money, so I wanted to raise some money for anticipating the fulfilment of the I was going to have to do something something cancer-related for him promise. more extreme than 25 push-ups.” and his family.” ACTS 1:8 be a witness close to A new plan formed: walk 25 Walking 25 kilometres for 25 days home and further abroad. kilometres for 25 days for a total of was no easy feat. ACTS 1:14, 2:1 be united and 625 kilometres. Tom also recruited “It’s hard finding five hours a in one accord. a friend, Youssef Saleh. Tom and day to fit in your timetable,” says ACTS 1:14 be prayerful. Youssef had met at Gilson College Youssef. “The first few weeks you get ACTS 2:14 be ready to boldly in Victoria. The two often walk sore, but your body adapts.” proclaim a message from heaven, together. “We did have a day where it was regardless of our past failures. “Tom gave me a call to say: ‘I just bucketing down rain from the ACTS 2:38 practise repentance, want to do a 25 kilometre challenge moment we started to the moment call for baptism and receive the instead of a 25 push-up challenge.’ we got back,” says Tom. Holy Spirit. And I said ‘yes of course’,” says Although their 25 days finished on ACTS 2:42 continue to study Youssef. June 18, Tom wants to keep going. God’s Word and build community. Tom saw this new challenge as an “I’m going to aim for 1000 kilo- ACTS 2:44 be generous and opportunity to make a difference. He metres,” he says. move from house to house gladly. asked family and friends to sponsor ACTS 2:47 remember it is the him in support of ADRA Australia and If you would like to support Tom, you Lord’s church and He will build it. Redkite, two organisations close to can make a donation via his website So, who is the Church? We are! his heart.
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 13 The TEN: Top productivity tips from the Bible
1. Recognise that God created you to 5. Start your day the night before 9. Glorify God, not man be productive The way we spend our evenings— Our modern culture stresses that There are countless verses in what we eat, the time we go to bed, we should work to better ourselves, Scripture about the benefit of hard how we plan—can have a significant but the Bible says that we should work. From the Bible’s outset, God impact on the next day. Interest- work to glorify God (Colossians tells man to be productive, to “be ingly, the Hebrew poetry used in 3:17,23). Remembering Who we are fruitful and multiply . . .” (Genesis Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23 and 31 lists working for can make it easier to find 1:28). Recognising productivity as a “evening” before morning. Perhaps purpose, and therefore stay focused positive thing—rather than a hin- planning out our day the night before and productive. drance—is a great mindset to start is biblical? with. 10. Seek God’s will in everything 6. Follow the law you do 2. Keep the Sabbath In Matthew 22:21, Jesus tells the Romans 12:2 tells us “. . . by “The Sabbath was made for man, Pharisees to “render unto Caesar that testing you may discern what is the not man for the Sabbath” (Mark which is Caesar’s”, and Romans 13:1 will of God, what is good and accept- 2:27). When God created us, He says, “Let every person be in subjec- able and perfect”. Often we spend knew we needed rest for optimal tion to the governing authorities.” If time doing things that aren’t God’s performance. Taking a day out every we try to cheat the system, punish- will—and therefore are unproductive. week to rest, recuperate and spend ment will catch up to us eventually. It’s important to test God and ask time with God, family and friends is It’s better to work with integrity and Him to direct our steps, so we can a great way to prevent burn-out and honesty in the long term. decide what’s important and what’s a stay motivated. waste of time. 7. Seek mentorship and advice 3. Practise positive thinking Although self-help culture encour- Our thoughts are powerful and ages us to make it on our own, influence our attitudes and moods Proverbs 15:22 says that “without more than we realise (Proverbs 4:23). counsel, plans fail, but with many Rather than dwelling on negative advisers they succeed”. Learning things or what we don’t have, Phi- humility and asking for help when lippians 4:3 encourages us to think it is needed will save you time and about things that are excellent and prevent mistakes in your work. praiseworthy. This can help us find energy to get through the day. 8. Take time to reflect and seek wisdom 4. Don’t procrastinate The Bible encourages us to seek As Proverbs 6:10-11 says, pro- wisdom and promises God will give it crastination leads to poverty. Rather to us liberally if we ask for it (James than enjoying life’s comforts now and 1:5). Stepping away from the nev- working later, the Bible encourages er-ending to-do list to analyse our us to work hard and enjoy the fruits life from a different perspective is of our labour afterwards. Work then important for staying productive and play. preventing burnout (Proverbs 6:6-8).
14 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 belief
How to back the correct conspiracy
n unsettling times it seems the Then, with some sarcasm, I yelled God is the centre of our existence; number of conspiracy theories out “conspiracy theories”. The crowd He has our future in His Hands—not a Ijumps. Perhaps you’ve heard of giggled. Our host started to write temporal one, but an eternal one. “plandemic”, that COVID-19 was the answer and (rightly) decided not When Jeremiah prophesied the caused by 5G towers or that Bill Gates to. The crowds’ response acknowl- Babylon exile (Jeremiah 29:1-15) it engineered the virus to reduce the edged the underlying bias the church came with a command to prosper in global population. Maybe you’ve heard community has towards apocalyptic exile. Though the government was COVID data is inflated or, in Australia, prophecy and conspiracy. We need against the Jews, God had bigger that the government is chasing some to recognise this bias when we look plans. He had the care of the peo- malicious goal by tracking people for the fulfilment of prophecy. And we ple’s hearts and minds beyond what through the COVIDSafe app. need to understand why those proph- they thought they needed. We should Conspiracies exist due to a lack of ecies were written. consider our situation similar to these trust in the government and the idea Apocalyptic prophecy wasn’t exiles. We’re living in a land that is not that the ruling powers are seeking written so we could prevent events our eternal home and we need to trust to gain something at the cost of the from happening. Jesus states that hard and deal with our ruling governments. wider population. In the days of mon- things would continue to occur until So the right conspiracy is not a archs and empires, there was no need the end of time (Matthew 24:6-8). conspiracy, it’s a controversy—the to hide these agendas. Rulers just took Apocalyptic prophecy wasn’t controversy between good and evil; what they wanted from the people. written so we could know the secrets God and the accuser. The accuser is Democracy brought in a level of of what will happen; to preach that the one creating the claims of conspir- distrust—we are unsure if the govern- knowledge of these secrets is essential acy about God and His government, ment seeks good or evil. The question to salvation. Rather, prophecy reveals attempting to undermine because he is: how do we respond as Christians truths that allow us to have confidence doesn’t have the power he desires. He and as Adventists? that God will save. plants seeds of doubt and arguments Within the Adventist Church, there Apocalyptic prophecy exists so we of injustice, much like the conspiracy are often elevated levels of concern become dependent on God as the theories we see in the world today. due to the way we read apocalyp- central power in our life. We know that So I encourage you; if you are con- tic literature. We have a historicist no matter what happens with beasts cerned about the current global crises perspective—an interpretation method and dragons, we are utterly reliant on or caught up in investigating conspira- that associates the apocalyptic the will of God. cies, remember that God is in control. imagery of books like Daniel and Reve- Apocalyptic prophecy reminds us All that matters is the truth we have in lation to people, places and political that time is short, things will get messy Christ’s soon return. powers. While this is an objective way and we have a job to do. The first If you know someone worried or to interpret Scripture, if done without angel’s message clearly states that concerned, now is an opportunity to the central focus on Jesus, it allows for judgement has come. Our mandate is share hope with them and to help fear and conspiracy to creep in. to proclaim, in the present, that God is them remove that anxiety. Let them I remember participating in a Bible the Victor, worthy of worship. know that, regardless of the outcome, boot camp. The discussion leader had So when should we worry about a we have a God who is bigger than any us brainstorm different starting points conspiracy? Well, we shouldn’t. conspiracy or government. for engaging people in a biblical dis- Even if an overextending govern- cussion. Several of the usual suspects ment is blatantly controlling our lives, justin boyd were listed: health, wellbeing, etc. we shouldn’t worry. Why? Because associate pastor, kellyville church, nsw.
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 15 practice
Watered-down sermons ARE MODERN PASTORS PREACHING LIKE ELLEN WHITE?
bout seven-and-a-half years ago, I started work as word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, a minister in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful Awas determined to grow the church that had been instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2). placed under my care. Since that time, I have endeavoured to do just that: to After 12 months working very hard in a small congre- preach the Bible. Perhaps I haven’t always been faithful gation, I was dismayed to see that our membership had or prayerful enough, and perhaps my homiletic skills have dropped! One night I was complaining and pouring my not always been on point. Sometimes I’ve been tired or heart out to God saying, “Lord! What’s wrong with me? rushed and my sermons haven’t exactly gone to plan, and Why can’t I grow my church?” sometimes I’ve done OK. I often feel guilty after preach- I was amazed as an answer from God came and ing that I have not been clear, or that I haven’t dug deep impressed on me so very clearly, “I will build My church, enough, or that I have dug too deep. Yet I always know and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” that, for better or for worse, I have preached the Bible (Matthew 16:18, emphasis added). Overwhelmed that because that is what Jesus Himself called me to do. Jesus had rebuked me by reminding me that the Church I also like to think that my brothers and sisters, both was His to grow and not mine, I meekly enquired, “Well pastors and lay preachers, who are called to preach in Lord, what do you want me to do?” local Adventist churches all over the world have a similar The impression came just as powerfully, “Preach the experience to myself.
16 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 We ask the Lord in prayer to impress a message on our After this, she stayed in Palmerston North and “led out hearts, and then, as we spend time in personal relationship with words of comfort and encouragement for the little with Him, He gives us a Bible topic or a verse, passage or few who had met together to worship God”, especially the story from the Scriptures that we then get up and preach young people there of whom she later wrote, “I addressed about on Sabbath. When every church in every place is words to them, to instruct and help them in doing right, in declaring a different section of the Scriptures it means that, loving Jesus in the early years of their life” (p90). Meeting as the Church, the Spirit leads us all together to proclaim on the Sabbath in Petone, she wrote “The Lord gave me “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27, NKJV). words to speak to the people. John 14” (p92). I guess that’s the reason why it bothers me a little bit At a camp meeting in Wellington, “she took great pleas- to hear people negatively criticise the preaching in their ure in ‘showing our colours on which were inscribed the churches. Don’t get me wrong; I believe in the power of commandments of God and the faith of Jesus’.” She wrote, positive criticism. As preachers, we ought to be open to “I told them that we were Seventh-day Adventists, and growing and responding to helpful suggestions so that the reason of the name which distinguished us from other we can be better communicators. But that’s not what I’m denominations” (p109). talking about. I’m talking about the kind of comments and I know there are some of us who might think that list snide remarks that suggest people who have been called of subjects is a watered-down message. But as I read this to speak in Adventist churches don’t preach what they are I was deeply impressed by the great theological balance supposed to be preaching. That there is too much stuff that pervaded Ellen White’s preaching. She was a straight, about love and grace, and not enough about conspiracies in conservative Christian preacher. She did not mince words or the Roman Catholic Church. That preachers have watered compromise the truth. However, her preaching was liberally down the sermons and aren’t delivering the three angels’ tempered with the grace, the love and the words of Christ, messages the way Ellen White wrote that we ought to do. and all of it was built on a solid foundation of holy Scripture. Perhaps you have heard someone make a remark like that Her grandson records that “her favourite theme . . . was after a sermon in your church? I have. ‘the Love of God’” (p77). Therefore, themes like love and It makes me wonder, What did Ellen White actually grace are not a watering down of the truth. The whole preach when she was in our part of the world? counsel of God must be preached, and His love and grace In addition to being a prolific writer, Ellen White was a must be the centre of it. regular preacher and was often invited to speak wherever Sometimes our churches remind me of the time I took she travelled. In her biographies, Ellen White’s grandson my kids to a buffet restaurant for dinner. They complained Arthur L White chronicles her time Down Under, in the to me that I didn’t give them a lot of the stuff they really volume entitled The Australian Years (1891-1900). Here we wanted (the unhealthy food), and I instead gave them a lot get an almost blow-by-blow description of what she did. of the stuff they really needed (the healthy food). If only Most interestingly, he highlights the subjects in her ser- they knew I was doing it for their good! Is it possible that in monic menu. Here are just a few of many notable examples: this YouTubing, podcasting, pick-what-you-want moment Her first sermon in Australia happened to be at a Con- in history, we can fall out of theological balance if we don’t ference session on December 24, 1891. “Since the next pay heed to the messages God’s servants have prepared for day was Christmas, Mrs White delivered an appropriate us in the pulpit? message on ‘the birth and mission of Christ, illustrating the For myself, despite what people say, I want to be both love of God and showing the propriety of making gifts of a preacher and a listener who is more faithful to the call of gratitude’” (p23). At a Week of Prayer in 1893, “she spoke Jesus. In order to get there, as Ellen White did, I know the on the publishing work; and . . . on tithing” (p58). A little answer is not to move my preaching further away from the later that year she “spoke with great freedom on John 14 Bible, but rather closer to it. Whether we really know it or to an audience that filled the house” (p70). The very next not, inside we are all hungry for God’s Word. Sabbath she said, “I spoke from the words of Christ in The truth is that we need to hear God’s Word, all of Matthew 13:12-17. I showed them that those living on the it. Not just the parts that interest us. It is my prayer that, earth are favoured above all people in the possession of despite the human vessel, we can enter our churches to precious advanced light” (p71). listen to every sermon with an open heart and this prayer Later on, Ellen White was travelling by ship and stopped on our lips, “Lord, please minister to my spirit through Your in Napier, NZ, where “she presented her favourite theme, Word today.” ‘The Love of God,’ to an attentive audience” (p77). At the New Zealand camp meeting “Ellen White spoke on phre- *Phrenology is a pseudoscience that involves the measurement of nology* and its perils” (p78). At the same camp “she spoke bumps on the skull to predict mental traits. on Sabbath observance, at another time on John 14 and the Christian’s heavenly home, then on sanctification and daniel matteo transformation of character. The subject of ‘dress’ was pre- youth director, tasmanian conference, and chaplain, hilliard sented, and one evening the school in Australia” (p79). christian school.
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 17 health
HOW DOES STRESS IMPACT TIPS TO HELP YOU YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM? MANAGE STRESS
We’ve been living through a global pan- demic, so it’s no wonder stress levels have crept up in most people’s lives. One of the ways stress impacts our body is by preventing our immune system from functioning at its best. But how can you spot the signs of stress and what can you do to keep it in check? EAT A HEALTHY DIET A varied, healthy diet full of micronutrients is Good and bad stress essential for maintaining Some stress can actually be good for a healthy immune system. Eat foods rich us—stress helps your body conserve energy in nutrients like vitamins when it’s hungry, instigates the fight-or-flight C and D and zinc which have been singled out as response when faced with danger and can important for immunity. help the immune system fight injury or infec- There’s also plenty of plant foods that help tion. However, chronic or prolonged stress mood, anxiety and even can negatively impact the body’s immune depression. response. How does stress affect your immune system? Stress can make you more vulnerable to contracting illnesses. It raises your corti- sol levels, which can weaken your immune system if they stay high for too long. Stress can also damage your body’s own cells and EXERCISE even trigger responses from your immune Getting active can help system, including elevating inflammation, protect your immune system. Exercise doesn’t which can make you more susceptible to need to be intense to viruses and infections. help manage stress— moderate intensity The COVID-19 pandemic is an example exercise will do the trick of a particularly stressful life event that can (like walking, jogging or riding your bike). cause what experts call “chronic stress”. Chronic stress is prolonged, severe stress and Prebiotic banana berry can affect the immune system by decreasing smoothie the body’s lymphocytes—white blood cells Try this delicious fibre-filled smoothie as that help fight off infection. a wholesome breakfast on the run or as a nutritious snack. Using prebiotic soy So how do you know if you’re stressed? milk, this smoothie is full of calcium and Do you find yourself constantly sleepy? potassium goodness. Or irritable in some way? These are signs TOUCH Emotions have a big of stress. Other common signs to watch for impact on our bodies, include acne, frequent headaches and lack of so it makes sense that Find this recipe and hundreds the more connected and more at: energy. supported we feel, the Stress also shows up in the form of less stressed we are. Australia: sanitarium.com.au/recipes While we still need to New Zealand: sanitarium.co.nz/recipes increased heart rate and tense muscles. stay safe and practise This is caused by the brain flooding the body social distancing, if you live with people you can with chemicals and hormones to help you safely give a good hug deal with what’s making you stressed or to, then go for it! uncomfortable. If you feel you need help managing stress, consider seeking support or speaking to your /sanitariumaustralia health care provider. /sanitariumnz
18 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 Record Rewind Meet the Parkers
rthur F Parker was born on June 30, 1899 in Victoria, After three more years labouring alone, Arthur returned Australia. He accepted the Adventist message in to Australia on furlough. While there, in 1934, he married A1911 after visitation and Bible studies by Adventist Dr Dorothy Mills—born in 1901 and a staff physician for workers. Initially, he worked as a machinist in a sawmill, seven years at the Sydney Sanitarium—commencing a mar- then a literature evangelist. riage that was to last more than 50 years. A 1926 graduate He attended the Australasian Missionary College (Avon- from medicine at Sydney University, she must have had dale) from 1923–1925, while also working, as many stu- some interest in mission service, for in 1933 she completed dents did, in the Sanitarium Health Food Company factory a diploma in Tropical Medicine. located on the campus. After graduation in 1926, Arthur Two daughters were born to this marriage: Dorothy entered the organised work of the Church in New South Yvette in 1938 and Lynette Ruth in 1945. Wales until his appointment to mission service in 1930. During the next four years back in Solomon Islands as a On November 21, 1928, Arthur Parker married Muriel combined pastor/doctor team, the Parkers established the Stace, a nurse at the Sydney Sanitarium. Little is known first Adventist hospital in the region on the island of Malaita of her as she is not listed in the record of graduates in the before returning to Australia in poor health—probably Sydney Adventist Graduates Association database though sometime in 1938, as the formal documentation provides her marriage declaration prior to her wedding indicates that conflicting dates and records of their years of service in she was a nurse, a “spin- Solomon Islands. ster” and had attained the After recuperation this age of 21 years! pastor/doctor team worked By early 1930 the Parkers in Warburton, Victoria, were on their way to from 1939 to 1941, after mission service at Batuna, which Dr Dorothy estab- Solomon Islands, where lished a private practice Arthur was to be principal in Geelong, which she and Muriel, a teacher. In an maintained for the next 39 April 28 letter to her sister, years. Meanwhile, Arthur begun on the ship as they was ordained to the gospel travelled to their new field ministry on January 21, of labour, and completed on 1945. their arrival, Muriel pro- Former missionary vided a detailed account Pastor Parker spent the last of the journey and her first 24 years of his denomina- impressions of her new field tional service in the Victo- of service. A second letter rian Conference—unusual details their first weeks of missionary life and her work with for the time. Even more unusual in an era when pastors the young people in the school. were frequently transferred was that the final 17 of those Unfortunately, this committed young missionary’s service years were in the Geelong area. There, the Parker home was brief. She died just six weeks after her arrival in the was open to isolated young people so they could live with Solomons, on May 16, 1930, following a brief but painful the Parkers and enjoy a Christian education. Dorothy was illness. also the doctor for the annual Victorian Conference camp Just before her death that Friday morning, Muriel sent meetings for many years. a good-bye message to all and then asked her husband Pastor Parker retired in 1964, having completed almost to sing Hymn 105 from Christ in Song, “I am trusting thee 41 years of denominational service. In 1983 he and Dorothy Lord Jesus”, which he did by torchlight. She then said, very moved into the Kressville Retirement Village in Cooranbong, distinctly, “Jesus is all the world to me, my life, my joy, my NSW, near Avondale University College and there, after a all” and quietly died. She was buried that evening, as the cerebral haemorrhage, Pastor Parker went to his rest on sun was dying in the west and the Sabbath hours were December 15, 1985, followed in death by Dorothy on July approaching. 1, 1987. As she had earlier requested, she was laid to rest near the school so that even in death she could still be a witness Dr Lester Devine to the One for whom she had come out to the Solomons to director emEritus, Ellen G White/Adventist Research Centre at work. Avondale University College.
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 19
Have your Say
#WERTHECHURCH
Just a quick note to share our appreciation for the weekend of messages that Coralie and I watched from Germany (at least those that were not at 2am our time). It was lovely to feel like we were back home and to see the way that God is leading beautifully throughout the South Pacific Division. I am not sure how many were watching but, for those of us who were, it was a great encouragement. I believe that this will grow as people share what a great series it was. We love the title, it makes sense when we often hear, “why doesn’t the Church do this? Why does the Church do that? What is the Church doing about it?” For any Australian watching this I think they would be thinking, “that is my Church”. We enjoyed the stories, the humility of our members, the passion for mission, the blessings through our institutions (they were all good but I particularly appreciated the Sydney Adventist Hospital message), the variety of approaches and the diversity in the SPD. Neale Schofield, Germany
INTERCESSORY MINISTRY Intercessor for humanity have to put William Miller Australia is adhering to its In the Sabbath School from the moment He joined in the preschool class of a accepted guidelines? Or Bible Study Guide, His Father at the right failed prophet compared are we just a soft target, Wednesday, June 10, there hand of the throne in the with the graduate class of prone to accepting guilt and is a statement at the bottom heavens—at His ascension. catastrophic global warming coughing up dollars? of the page which troubles Seventh-day Adventists prophets! (see Deuteronomy Kerry Hortop, NSW me. It reads: have never officially taught 18:22). “Counting forward 2,300 otherwise. Group-think with poor AMUSED AND UPDATED years, we come to 1844, Ross Goldstone, via email modelling and poor research I’m still catching up on which is not long after 1798 in certain universities appear my Records! and before the second WRITING OFF OPPOSERS to be behind this issue and I laughed at your team’s coming of Jesus. This is “What to make of the also evident in outrageous awesomeness in thinking of when Jesus entered into the Climate Controversy?” predictions in this latest “The Ten: Bible characters Most Holy place and began (March 21) is very similar to COVID-19 pandemic. who spent significant time His work of intercession, one the author wrote a few Usually those practising alone” (May 16). So spot on! of cleansing the heavenly years ago. propaganda seek to oppose Thanks to your team for sanctuary . . .” In the interim, some free speech for exposing the keeping us up to date and To me this is a most notable predictions by the weaknesses of their argu- keeping me amused! unfortunate statement. catastrophic global warming ments. Writing off opposers Donna Pascoe, via email The Bible clearly teaches prophets have failed to as conservative right-wing Christ commenced His materialise. In fact if all the denier nuts is just getting intercessory ministry at prophetic events predicted totally worn-out. Why do His ascension (see 1 John by the warmers since the these zealots, who have Note: Views in “Have your say” do not necessarily rep- 2:1,2, Hebrews 8:1,2 and release of the first Intergov- an ideology approaching resent those of the editors or 7:23–25). ernmental Panel on Climate religious fervour demonising the denomination. Comments should be less than 250 words, If Jesus only “began” Change (IPCC) report, which carbon dioxide (which is and writers must include their His work of intercession on have failed to materialise, plant food and much less name, address and phone October 22, 1844 what of were to be published in effective as a greenhouse number. All comments are ed- ited to meet space and literary all those who died between some detail, a special gas than water vapour), requirements, but the author’s the cross and 1844? The edition of Adventist Record not berate other nations original meaning will not be changed. Not all comments New Testament clearly would have to be produced who are rapidly increasing received are published. teaches that Christ was the to list them! We would their output of CO2 while
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 21 noticeboard
11.4.1959, he married Patricia church treasurer and the son of a joke and a laugh, was a good Tindall, who predeceased him in a pastor. He was quiet and unas- family man and friend to many. Anniversaries 1964. He married Diana Waller suming, a true Christian, good He rests, awaiting the day when CRESSWELL. on 17.4.1971. Ian is survived by listener, slow to speak, always he hears “come forth” at the Paul and Evelyn his wife (Black Mountain); sons, thoughtful and non-judgemental. return of Jesus, when pain and celebrated their David (Picton), Andrew (Clayton Jesus was clearly his Saviour and illness will be no more. 60th wedding Bay, SA) and Christopher (Lewes, he now rests awaiting the second Dan Kewley anniversary with their family on United Kingdom); and daughter, coming. June 7, 2020 at Sandgate, Qld. Rosalind Pearce (Coolah, NSW). Justin Lawman NICKALLS, Robert John, born They were married on April 18, Ian’s main career was rates clerk 21.5.1933 in Ealing, NZ; died 1960, in the Frankston church, at Coolah for 16 years and then Maskell, Maxwell, 6.5.20 in Canberra, ACT. He is Vic, by Pastor Hugh Bolst. They at Guyra for 26 years. In 1996 born 23.5.1936 in survived by his wife, Di (Downer, were blessed with three sons, Ian was baptised, along with his Melbourne, Vic; died ACT); daughters, Susan, Debbie Andrew, Jonathan and James; five wife Diana, into the Guyra church 15.5.20 in Bundaberg, and Anne-Marie; and son, Phillip. grandchildren, Lauren, Alex- where he served for many years Qld. On 22.6.1952, he married Rob was an active member of andra, Oliver, Joshua and Henry; as a deacon. Ian also served Beryl. Max is survived by his wife Canberra National Church and and three great-grandchildren, his community each month by (Bundaberg); children, Leonne loved to sing. Rob’s favourite Elijah, Scarlett and Jaylen. Paul, visiting the local aged care facility and Michael James (Coolangatta saying was “Where there is a supported by Evelyn, spent all and sharing a spiritual message. Mountain, NSW), and Lance will, there is a way” and this his working life with Sanitarium Prayer for his family was a and Judy (Bundaberg, Qld): four was reflected in his approach to Health Food Company, which priority. grandchildren, Lachlan, Tahlia, everything. He is now awaiting included management roles in David Cherry, Stephen Duncan, Timothy and Adele; and two the second coming. Tasmania and Queensland. The John Lang great-grandchildren, Airiana and Justin Lawman travel restrictions currently in Arrow. Max loved his family, his place prevented other family and BRUNNER, Alma Joan, church and church family. Over Vernon, Marierose (Babs) Ninon friends from interstate attending. born 19.10. 1941; died the years he held several different (nee Delaive), born 16.11.28 in 6.6.20 in Toowoomba, positions but had a special affinity Lawang, Surabaya, East Java, WILSON. Neville Qld. Alma is survived for ADRA and spent many hours Indonesia; died 31.5.20 in and Margaret, by her husband, John; children, raising thousands of dollars for Sydney Adventist Hospital, NSW. married on Ann, Antony, Gregory, Jenine, them through different projects. In 1955 she married George 11.5.1960 at Megan and Zelda; grandchildren; He was a man who always loved who predeceased her in 2001. North Fitzroy church, Vic, recently and great-grandchildren. Alma celebrated their 60th wedding was honoured with a graveside anniversary. They are blessed service at Wondai Lawn Ceme- with four children, Neil, Gary, tery, in which some family, and POSITION VACANT Craig and Kaylene and their close friends were present. Alma partners; 11 grandchildren; and loved her children and family 2D ANIMATOR (12-MONTH CONTRACT) six great-grandchildren. Nev and dearly. She will be missed by AUSTRALIAN UNION CONFERENCE, RINGWOOD, VIC Marg reminisced over lunch with her husband, children and their Are you an experienced animation artist who is looking to their bridesmaid, Pamela Stott families, and her Murgon church work on an exciting and meaningful project? Then we have an (Bullas). Family and friends look family. forward to celebrating together Leathan Fitzpatrick opportunity for you! The Seventh-day Adventist Church (AUC) later this year. After 15 years in Limited is building a team of creatives to design and deliver high Keilor, they shifted to Lilydale CHAPMAN, Miriam Jane, died quality motion graphics and animations to bring an incredible for church school education and 29.12.19 at the grand age of 102 Bible story to life. The successful animator will have a strong have been active members of years. A North NSW Conference portfolio of character animation and graphic skills, demonstrating the Lilydale church for the past member who over her lifetime skill in creating fluid and natural character animations; and three 45 years. We thank God for His attended the Wallsend, Bool- plus years of similar work experience, with solid drawing skills. love and grace and Mum and Dad aroo and Hamilton churches. Creative activities include developing storyboards, and creating for their wonderful example of a Miriam was predeceased by her illustrations of characters, props, backgrounds and digital assets loving relationship. husband, Patrick and daughter, Daphne. She is survived by her for scripts, and an opportunity to contribute to the planning and children, Kevin, Lillian, Patricia development of this exciting project. If you would like to be part and Barbara; 11 grandchildren; of this animation ministry, then please contact
22 Adventist record | July 4, 2020 noticeboard
Babs is survived by her children, her family. She was a gentle, Paul and Coralie (Sydney); and caring person who was loved and two grandchildren, Georgia and respected by all who knew her. AVONDALE HOMECOMING Charlotte. She spent her early Barry Wright AUGUST 21-22, 2020 life in Java until the Japanese occupation when she moved to ADVERTISING New York and then Holland. As Who will you a secretary she worked for the wiqhejio Shell Oil Company before moving ALLROUND TRAVEL wqhncmxnc m,zx meet? to Australia in 1954 where she International and group travel commenced work with General specialists. Gary Kent tour-Israel, Motors (Holden). After marrying Jordan and Egypt, October/Nov George the family moved to 2020. Bible lands tour-April/May the northern suburbs in Sydney 2021. For further details please where she worked as a volunteer contact Anita or Peter on 0405 counsellor and became a tireless 260 155. Email
NEXT ISSUE: JULY 20, 2020 The impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) means your Homecoming experience will look different this year. Reconnect with classmates at online honour year and decade reunions. Enjoy live streamed worship services and the concert. Take a virtual tour of campus.
MORE INFORMATION: www.avondale.edu.au/homecoming Note: Neither the editor, Adventist Media, nor the Seventh-day Adventist www.facebook.com/AvondaleAlumni Church is responsible for the quality of goods or services advertised. Pub- lication does not indicate endorsement of a product or service. Classified advertisements in Adventist Record are available to Seventh-day Adventist members, churches and institutions only. All advertisements, appreciation, 2010 | 2000 | 1990 | 1980 | 1970 | 1960 | 1950 anniversary, wedding and obituary notices may be submitted via
This oth i Sigs ...
PAPUAN CRISIS There’s a slow-motion genocide unfolding on our doorstep. Why don’t we know more about it? SEVEN DEADLY VIRUSES ...... and how we’ve brought them on ourselves. The Bible teaches what humanity can do to avoid pandemics.
Signs of the Times is a great way to share DARE TO EAT PLANTS LIKE A DANIEL your faith with friends who don’t yet know Can a vegetarian still build muscle? A Bible Jesus. Read for yourself and then ask, Who diet inspires a three month trial. do I know who would enjoy this article? IS THE CHRISTIAN VIEW OF SEX ANTI-LOVE? COMING UP IN THE AUGUST EDITION . . . True love is about more than consent.
—How launching my personal brand reshaped my identity Email [email protected] —The longest time-out: 1000 years of questions —Meet the wonder women of the Bible Freecall 1800 035 542 (Aus)
DISCOUNT BULK ORDERS FOR YOUR OUTREACH EVENT—LAST CHANCE! 0800 770 565 (NZ)
signsofthetimes.org.au Subscribe Articles Podcast Donate
July 4, 2020 | Adventist record 23