November 22, 2008 In this issue Educators “encounter” Bible
LAC centenary book released
Emmaus to Launceston (L–R) Sanitarium’s Moorooka managers and superintendents: Jeff Potter, Ross Burkhardt, Peter Barnett and John Grubb with Kevin Smith, general manager for Sanitarium Australia. Sanitarium celebrates 50 years at Moorooka Moorooka, Queensland
n October 21, the Sanitarium John Grubb, manufacturing manager Health Food Company factory at for the factory, says, “When the factory first Moorooka celebrated half a century opened, it was considered ultra modern with of operation. Former employees its biscuit-making machinery touted as the OLen Algate, and Ray and Beverley Barnett, most modern technology in the Southern joined with former colleagues and current Hemisphere. Obviously, there have been staff to celebrate the milestone. some significant changes since then but the The iconic building was officially opened same principles exist—we are still making Success for on October 12, 1958, by the then-premier of a great Australian product.” Queensland, Sir Frank Nicklin. The fac- Brisbane residents Mr and Mrs Barnett tory was billed as an important new step worked as “making machine” and convey- Global in Queensland’s industrial development. ance line workers and Mr Algate worked The production line is still going strong 50 in various positions in the factory, and are years later, with a number of technological just some of the thousands of people who Mission advances. (Continued on page 4) ISSN 0819-5633 editorial
We need to be the Christians we want to see. Great disappointments
few months ago, a friend who Distorted, wrong, negative experiences of do is in His name, and it results in injus- isn’t a Christian was telling me—in “religious” behaviour has potentially far- tice or abuse. no uncertain terms and without reaching effects on Christians as well. It’s also easy to assemble endless lists of me needing to hold the phone Judging by the way some church mem- what we expect from others and God. The Aany closer to my ear than an arm’s length bers treat one another, you’d be forgiven for problem comes when we need to turn it away—what he thought of Christians. He thinking they had nothing in common but around and ask ourselves what it’d cost was mostly letting off steam but he’d also a deep and abiding loathing for one anoth- for us to give. We need to be the Christians just had a particularly negative experience er. And instead of defeating their enemies we want to see and lead by example. This with a group of Christians—and from with kindness, it seems they would rather requires us to recognise the differences be- what had happened, I could understand see how it goes with an AK-47. tween people and accept them, showing his frustration and hurt. It’s hardly surprising people leave the genuine tolerance and care. We choose how Unfortunately, unpleasantness conducted church in these cases, whether it’s briefly we behave, and can make the decision to put by Christians reflects badly on God, even before finding another church or for an our prejudices aside in order to care for and though it isn’t His fault. We’re meant to extended period of time—perhaps even forgive people. If we offer ourselves—our represent Him and therefore, people hold forever. Maybe it could be compared to weaknesses and strengths—to God to make us to a higher standard of accountabil- keeping your hand on a hotplate that’s the most of, we can be a positive change in ity when we tell them we’re Christians. burning you—you want to remove your the church and the world around us. When we fail, they see it. If we do wrong, hand from the source of pain. God commands us to extend the same it’s sometimes worse than if there was no In a church situation, how do we make love and courtesy to everyone we meet, higher authority above us. Even if people sure hurt and disaffection don’t lead us to and in Matthew 5:13-16, we’re encouraged don’t believe in God, they still expect Chris- remove our hand from God’s? to be “salt and light” to the world (not “as- tians to behave like they do. There seems to be an assumption in sault and blight,” as others have comment- It’s a lot to live up to. And there are many some parts that those who leave church ed). Living well here is practice for living Christians and churches who manage to are “backslidin’ heathens,” who spend perfectly together in heaven. (We can get do it admirably. However, there are some their Sabbath mornings fornicating while some good perspectives on love from the who really don’t. watching sport and smoking. But this is Epistles of John.) In Testimonies for the Church, Vol 7, Ellen rarely the case. Above all, we need to maintain our White writes, “Unfaithfulness, injustice, dis- Most people stop going to church be- relationship with God and hold tightly honesty, [and] conniving at wrong, obstruct cause of hurt and disinterest. They gen- to His hand, regardless of what our re- the light which God designs shall shine erally don’t stop believing in God, even if lationship is with the church. Every day, forth from His instrumentalities. . . . The they’re angry at Him or blame Him for we should work to fall more in love with world watches to see what fruit is borne by their hurt. Sometimes it’s not easy to love God and make sure our eyes are firmly professed Christians” (page 201). So are we God, despite knowing the bad things aren’t fixed on Him. producing good fruit or sour grapes? His fault. It’s hard when other people’s It isn’t just people outside the church we humanity gets in the way of His divinity, can put off Christianity by behaving badly. especially when they’re claiming what they Adele Nash
Official Paper of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacific Division Seventh-day Associate editor David Edgren 3485 Warburton Highway Adventist Church Editorial assistant Adele Nash Warburton, Vic 3799, Australia ABN 59 093 117 689 Editorial assistant Jarrod Stackelroth Phone: (03) 5965 6300 Fax: (03) 5966 9019 www.adventist Copyeditor Talitha Simmons Email Letters: [email protected] connect.org Editorial secretary Kristel Rae Email Newsfront: [email protected] Layout Ruby Lim Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Vol 113 No 45 Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacific Division mailed within Cover: Sanitarium Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. Australia www.record.net.au Other prices on application. Printed weekly.
2 November 22, 2008 news Global Mission projects enjoy success in 2008 Wahroonga, New South Wales established in new areas.” balevu, a Fiji–Indian church, as well as on Some of the new church plants in Aus- Naviti Island in the Yasawa group.” eports from more than 40 Global tralia—which are now well established— Work has just commenced on Manono Mission projects operating this year include Fountain in the City Church in Island in Samoa, and the first baptism was in the South Pacific Division (SPD) Sydney’s central business district, 3AM held at Nikunau in Kiribati as a result of the indicate at least 120 people have been Macquarie University church, Swinburne “Friendship Fishing” project. “A minister Rbaptised and many Adventist churches are University church in Melbourne and the is now located on Nauru and land is being being established. Mirrabooka All Nations church at Koon- purchased on Nauru for a church building, The October 21 meeting of the SPD’s doola, Western Australia. which will finally give Seventh-day Advent- Global Mission Committee in Wahroon- In New Zealand, the Russian church ists official registered status on the island,” ga received applications for a number of plant at Bishopdale in Christchurch is now reports Pastor Coombe. these projects to continue, along with ad- a completed project, and the baptism of six In addition to these projects is the work in ditional applications for nine new projects people took place on Wallis Island in July PNG and Pastor Coombe says, “In PNG, the for 2009. (“First baptisms on Wallis Island,” News, first church services were held, with interest “And this didn’t include Papua New August 30). Wallis Island had previously from a remote heathen tribe at Hakarhai in Guinea (PNG) and the New Zealand Pa- been unentered territory. the Madang Province and, following evange- cific Unions, who will have their applications Several small chapels have been con- listic campaigns in the border area with Irian considered at the December meeting of the structed in the Solomon Islands, with the Jaya, new groups have started at Wutung committee,” Pastor Ray Coombe, director of beginning of new groups on the islands of and Haripmo, West Sepik Province. Adventist Mission for the SPD, explains. Gela, Santa Ana (Orawata) and Rennell, “We salute the Global Mission pioneers, Committee chairman and SPD gen- along with the northern area of the island who have entered these new areas and raised eral secretary Pastor Lawrence Tanabose of Malaita. up little groups of believers. Whether in the says, “It’s exciting to receive these reports In Vanuatu, work has commenced among secular, crowded cities of Australia, or the of the growth of the church in previously the cargo cult people of Tanna island and the remote and primitive villages of the islands, unentered areas. This is the cutting edge project on Aniwa island was completed, with these all represent miracles of God’s grace, of church growth, and we praise the Lord the baptism of three more people and the as people are brought into a saving relation- for the dedication of the 56 Global Mission consecration of a small chapel this year. ship with Jesus. This is the core business of pioneers and volunteers who sow the gospel “Churches have been built at Dama and Adventist Global Mission. We are grate- seed in these new areas.” Vunimacava in Vanua Levu, Fiji, with ful for the financial support from church Pastor Coombe adds, “Photos of baptisms projects also completed at Waima and Na- members, and every level of church organ- and new church buildings are always a wel- gado on Viti Levu,” says Pastor Coombe. isation that makes these projects possible.” come sign that the church is indeed being “Baptisms were conducted recently at Du- —RECORD staff/Ray Coombe
what we were created for. It is health screening, including blood the Master’s desire for our lives.” pressure, vision test and breast He also challenged the crowd, examinations for the women, saying, “Seeking God is not just some 84 people were screened. a statement out of desperation— The evening meetings included it is a way of life.” The Inverell health talks and sermons. The ◆◆On October 26, people of church is letterboxing the entire health talks were given by Dr night, more than 70 people were Inverell, NSW, and nearby towns town for a seminar entitled the Ken Boone. Topics ranged from in attendance. To conclude the gathered at Campbell Park to “Bait of Satan” as a follow-up general hygiene to tuberculo- week-long emphasis on health, conclude the town’s annual to the sermon at the festival. sis, AIDS, nutrients, the effects of a 10-kilometre walk was organ- festival with a worship service. —RECORD staff/Eti Feau harmful substances and obesity. ised, followed by breakfast. Even The service was coordinated by Sermons were given by the pastor with a starting time of 5 am, more the Inverell Minister’s Fraternal. ◆◆From October 19 to 25, the and elders of the church and cov- than 70 people participated in the The minister of Inverell Advent- Goroka Town church, Eastern ered topics such as dress, diet and walk. A police escort was supplied ist church, Eteuati Feau, pre- Highlands Province, PNG, spon- health, flesh as food, extremes for the walk, which gave an even sented the message of “hope.” sored a Health Emphasis Week. in diet, stimulants and narcot- greater amount of attention to He emphasised, “Community is Starting Sunday morning with a ics, and alcohol prohibition. Each the event.—Susan Payne
Believe in christ > live the life @ www.edgeonweb.org
November 22, 2008 3 news Women gather in Sanitarium celebrates Solomons for Dorcas 50 years at Moorooka Ramata, Solomon Islands (Continued from page 1) ore than 100 women from north New Georgia and northern Choi- have worked in the factory. They shared seul gathered in Ramata in the stories about their time with Sanitarium, Western Province of the Solomon including the unique tasks associated with MIslands for Dorcas Federation 2008 in early their roles at the plant. September. “It’s been great to catch up with old The women attended workshops on friends. I can’t believe it’s been 50 years strengthening community service in their since the factory opened,” said Mr Bar- churches and shared reports from activities nett. “I worked on the make. The proc- undertaken throughout the year. Pastors ess involved manually filling each mould Patrick Livah and Luther Taniveke were with flakes and forming them into biscuits, Ray, Beverley and Peter Barnett at the guest speakers for the event, and shared using a manual press.” 50th anniversary celebrations for the their thoughts on the mission of commu- Sanitarium Moorooka factory. Mr Algate said, “There wasn’t anything nity service. I couldn’t do! I worked on the pressure ter” of the factory but over the years, the Participant Rosie Eleazar from Varuga in cooker, the making machine, in packing plant has also carried out other operations northern Choiseul has been involved with and the gardens.” including honey packing, wheat-germ Dorcas for more than 20 years. “We’re in- Mrs Barnett was one of two women at stabilisation and the making of peanut volved in Dorcas because we see the needs the end of the conveying line who packed butter. of the poor around us and want to help,” biscuits into cartons. “We would wrap the “The plant is part of Queensland’s in- she commented. “It is a way to witness and cartons in wax paper, then pass the car- dustrial history. The building has become share the gospel.”—Charlene Luzuk ton over a hotplate to seal the wax paper,” as familiar with locals as the Sanitarium she said. brand itself,” said John Grubb, manufac- Working at Sanitarium runs in the Bar- turing manager. nett family. In 1975, Ray and Beverley’s son, The Moorooka factory celebrations also Peter, joined the company and is currently coincided with another Sanitarium mile- the engineering manager at Moorooka. stone—it has been 80 years since Weet-Bix Australia’s number-one selling breakfast was introduced to Australian households. cereal, Weet-Bix, is the “bread and but- —Sharyn Brady Women at Dorcas Federation 2008.
finders, and “mocktails” were was actually poet Judith Bev- made and sold to raise further eridge. funds. The diners were pre- sented with numerous musi- ◆◆Year 10 Heritage College cal and visual performances by (Vic) students have been busy the Pathfinders, with the entire preparing “Operation Christ- ◆◆The Riverland Pathfinder club singing the Pathfinder mas Child” giftboxes to be nity to tell children and their Club, SA, hosted their bian- Song to end the evening. More sent to less fortunate children families about Jesus Christ. nual black tie dinner for mem- than $A1400 was raised toward in need of some joy and hope —Maleesa Pascoe bers of the local church and the next Pathfinder Camporee. this Christmas. The students their friends on August 30. The —Sheree Arnold wanted children in all parts of ◆◆Landsdale Gardens Adventist theme this year was a “mas- the globe to know all are pre- School (LGAS), WA, celebrated querade” dinner, with each ◆◆Correction: The news story cious to God. The boxes con- their 20th anniversary on Octo- participant required to wear a “New Leaves shows healing tain special things to love, play ber 26. Past and present students mask until they were seated. power of poetry” (November with, eat, wear and write with and staff reconnected during There were handmade masks 1), stated Dr Jill Gordon taught but most importantly, each one afternoon tea, and heard from the for sale, designed by the Path- the creative writing course. It provides a wonderful opportu- school’s first principal,Bob Flynn.
Days and offerings: ◆ December 6—Missions extension offering
4 November 22, 2008 news New software helps share correspondence ADRA Australia courses with the world provides free Wahroonga, New South Wales online learning communities. It can be downloaded and used on any computer and wall calendar dventist Discovery Centre’s (ADC) is employed by institutions like the Univer- Wahroonga, New South Wales latest move to Moodle—a free open- sity of Canberra and the Queensland Uni- source software—means its online versity of Technology. his year, the Adventist Develop- correspondence courses have the There are currently three ADC courses ment and Relief Agency (ADRA) Apotential to be used as a resource for minis- being offered on the Moodle system, with Australia will be providing a free tries worldwide, with- four more being trans- 2009 wall calendar to Australian out cost and with the ferred from the old Tresidents upon request only. In previous ease of a few mouse system in the next few years, the calendar had been distributed clicks. months. in RECORD but ADRA Australia hopes “Previously, we Digging Deeper, an the new distribution method will reduce needed to mail all our advanced archaeologi- costs and wastage. information on discs cal and history course, The calendar, which features photos of overseas and these will be available online ADRA Australia’s work and inspirational ministries will still on the Moodle system- Bible verses about God’s heart for the poor, need to provide their for the first time be- is available for free to individuals or for own web-based cod- Screenshot of a website using fore the end of this church distribution by calling 1800 242 372 Moodle software. ing, illustrations and year. Pastor Price says in Australia or emailing
the Western Australian Confer- subject of the Sabbath school les- ence, Mark Hansen, touched on son was “Women of Mission,” and future plans for the school with the senior Sabbath school leader, a K–12 campus and unveiled a Rhondda Smart, interviewed four special anniversary plate, featur- local church women about their ing the name of every child and role in mission—June Burns, who, Past student Jarrod Duncan, who teacher in the 20th year. A com- with her late husband Pastor Lin as part of an evangelistic team. now sends his own children to memorative tree was planted and Burns, taught and ministered in The highlight of the worship serv- LGAS, reflected on his own experi- current students and teachers India; Robyn Cunningham, who ice was the ordination of Ballarat ence in Adventist education, and planted colourful pots of flow- told of missionary outreach in church’s first female elder, Shera- the desire for his own children to ers, representing each grade. the Solomon Islands; Dr Rowena lyn van Egmond (pictured cen- receive the same values and qual- —Letitia Dose Ebenezer, who shared some of tre). The service was led by Pastor ity education. Current principal her experiences during her time Brian Lawty (left), Ballarat church Rhonda Belson shared where the ◆◆The Ballarat church, Vic, cel- at university in her home coun- pastor, and Ms van Egmond’s school is today, with 65 students ebrated its women on September try of India; and Norma Howie, father, Pastor Kevin Amos (right), and enrolments for next year at 6, with a program highlighting who related some of what she had prayed the ordination prayer. 75. The education director for their importance in the church. The experienced while visiting Russia —Merrilyn Hastings
Avondale COLLEGE, DEGREES WITH A CHRISTIAN FOCUS @ www.Avondale.edu.AU
November 22, 2008 5 news NZ school wins Australian educators enterprise award “encounter” Bible Mangere Bridge, New Zealand Launching Place, Victoria teacher in-servicing approaches. uckland Adventist High School joint- “The Encounter Bible program is being ly won the outstanding Company ustralian counterparts responsible developed with broad consultation with of the Year Award with Macleans for writing and developing the Bible teachers,” says Dr Daryl Murdoch, College at the Counties Manukau Encounter Bible program, a joint associate national director of Advent- ALion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme initiative of the Seventh-day Ad- ist Schools Australia. “It incorporates a (YES) Regional Awards. Aventist Church in Austral- well-articulated spiritual More than 500 students and 85 student ia and New Zealand for formation model with con- companies took part in the YES scheme in schools in both countries tent covering from Prep Counties Manukau this year. (“New Bible curriculum to Year 10, and has a fresh DICE, the company set up by the school, for Australia and New approach to the teaching of provides the “Mosquito” ringtone, an age- Zealand,” News, August Bible in our schools.” specific, high-frequency ringtone that people 16), have undergone train- According to Dr Murdo- aged 23 and over are unable to hear. ing in writing work units ch, at least 10 similar writ- The company also won the Financial for the students. ers’ workshops have been Management and Excellence in Business Lanelle Cobbin, curricu- planned for Bible teach- Management Awards. Its directors are So- lum specialist for Advent- ers in Australia and New phie Tew, Steven Ryan, Edward Davidson, ist Education in the New Zealand next year. Units Melissa Alach and Blair Marnitz. Zealand Pacific Union of work based on the new Auckland Adventist High School tied Conference, conducted Lanelle Cobbin, curriculum Encounter Bible program with Macleans College from Bucklands the writers’ workshop specialist for the New Zealand framework are currently Beach, who marketed “Light stick.” They Pacific Union Conference. for the 10 members of the being written. designed and produced lighting solutions for Australian Union Conference’s Bible Ref- “We are looking at a three-year project operators of small watercraft to prevent col- erence Committee in early October. to write units, and trial them and in-serv- lisions. It also won the Innovation and Excel- The committee members came from ice staff,” says Dr Murdoch. “It is a major lence in Business Management Awards. across Australia for the workshop and project that will impact our approach As well as competing for the top three also met to finalise the structure of the to Bible teaching in Australia and New awards in the country, DICE and “Light Prep to Year 10 Encounter Bible program, Zealand.”—Melody Tan stick” will also receive an Excellence Award. and consider development strategies and More @ http://adventist.org.au —Manukau Courier
◆◆The Seventh-day Advent- dream come true for our mem- their lifetime than non-church ◆◆Five churches in the New York ist Church in Vietnam received bers,” said Khoi Tran, steward- going people, according to new neighbourhood of Harlem, US, official recognition in October, ship director of the Vietnamese research. Persons with high lev- have collected hundreds of weap- granting the church in the south- Mission. Some 130 delegates els of existential wellbeing (sense ons in exchange for cash. More east Asian nation legal status voted a constitution, bylaws and of meaning and purpose in life) than 500 rifles, handguns and to operate, church officials said. operation plans for the next four are 70 per cent less likely to suf- shotguns were handed over by Leaders met in Ho Chi Minh years and appointed an Execu- fer from depression than their October 25—no questions asked. City from October 22 to 24, to tive Committee. The commit- counterparts with lower levels Each person who brought a firearm elect officers during the first tee elected Tran Cong Tan as of such an outlook. Researcher was given a $US200 bankcard. The church constituency meeting president. There are six Adventist Joanna Maselko of Temple Uni- buy-back program is sponsored by in the country since 1975. The church buildings in Vietnam and versity said involvement with the the New York Police Department church’s Executive Committee about 100 registered Advent- church provides opportunity for and the Manhattan district attor- for the country is now seeking ist groups meeting in homes. community interaction, which ney’s office,in an effort to remove funds to purchase land to estab- —ANN could help forge attachments weapons from city streets. The pro- lish a Bible school, a top prior- to others—an important fac- gram has removed about 5000 ity for the church with 13,000 ◆◆Churchgoers are 30 per cent tor in preventing depression. guns from New York streets since members in Vietnam. “This is a less likely to be depressed in —NDTV.com it began six years ago.—AP
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6 November 22, 2008 news Palmerston North LAC centenary book released school holds “teacher Palmerston North, New Zealand appreciation day” he Longburn Adventist College Palmerston North, New (LAC) centenary book, Celebrat- Zealand ing the Legacy, has finally been released, following celebrations almerston North Adventist Primary Tof the milestone earlier this year (“LAC School celebrated “teacher apprecia- celebrates 100 years of education,” tion day” on September 25. Teach- News, April 26). ers and support staff started the day Pastor Desmond Hills was one of the Pwith a smorgasbord, sit-down breakfast, key people behind the book and has a while some of the students were waiters relationship with the college that began Pastor Desmond Hills shows the first copy and waitresses. One of the Year 6 girls ser- in 1950 as a student. He returned as of Celebrating the Legacy to Andrew enaded them with keyboard music. preceptor and Bible teacher from 1955 Perry, director of Artistic Australia, which The local newspaper, as well as a camera- to 1958, and was vice-chairman on worked on design for the book, and Robyn man from Tararua TV, a local TV station, Colquhoun, one of the editor’s consultants. the board of management from 1981 covered the event. to 1985. Pastor Hills says, “I saw a need for the life of the college and people involved The teachers were reported as being such a book following the great job done with it. “blown away” by the effort put into the day with the book for Carmel Adventist Col- “From the start, it has been the intention by students—one was brought to tears with lege. I decided Longburn needed its his- that the book be a witness to God’s leading. the beautiful floral arrangements in the tory recorded.” It is permeated with the gospel story, testi- room and on each table. A team of parents Based on more than 100 submissions from monies of God’s leading, the benefits of a were on duty all day, relieving the teach- students and staff, the book was put together Christian education, and the story of Ad- ers of their responsibilities. The teachers with about six months of full-time work by ventism in New Zealand and the general weren’t allowed into their classrooms until Pastor Hills. Sheila McNabb, LAC archivist, community,” says Pastor Hills. the children, with a team of parents, had and Marie Ioannidis-Carter, a teacher at LAC principal Bruce Sharp says, “Des “made over” each room with balloons and LAC, made significant contributions to the has done a wonderful job of putting to- streamers, and posters telling each teacher book, supplying collections of memorabilia, gether the history of Longburn in such an how much they are valued and what they photographs and correspondence collected absorbing way. He has garnered our story, like about them. over the years. Brian and Daphne Townsend and now it’s both stored and widely avail- When each teacher made it into their spent time proofreading the material. able for everyone.” classroom, they were prayed over by the Former staff and students were invited Elva Nixon assisted with editorial work students and given a scrap-booked page to make submissions a number of years ago for Celebrating the Legacy and says, “This of themselves, along with a pot plant and and the response was “overwhelming.” The isn’t just a history book—it’s full of photos gifts from their students. centenary book not only focuses on people’s and interesting, inspiring personal experi- Pastor Anton van Wyk, school chap- stories and memories but also explores the ences contributed by students and staff over lain, and Pastor Owen Ellis, director of mission of the college, and God’s leading in the century.”—Julene Duerksen-Kapao Adventist Education for the New Zealand Pacific Union Conference, supported the PAUSA raises “record amount” day.—Tina Larsen
Port Moresby, Papua New struggling with fees. That dream became Guinea a reality on October 19.” Benny Allen, the Papua New Guinea he Pacific Adventist University government’s minister for environment Students Association (PAUSA) has and conservation, was guest speaker at the raised more than K132,000 as they launch of the fund and pledged to support established a ministry support fund it, sponsoring one theology student for Tto help theology students struggling with K10,000 and adding a further K50,000 from school fees. his discretion fund early next year. PAUSA president Jonah Lupi says, “It Other distinguished guests also provided Teachers enjoying the breakfast on was a dream that PAUSA would open a donations for the fund.—Harina “teacher appreciation day” at Palmerston trust fund to support hardworking students More @ www.pau.ac.pg North Adventist Primary School.
November 22, 2008 7 perspective Working together with God by Mike Brownhill
ince our inception as a denomi- of ministry. imagine the tremendous impact our pro- nation, evangelism has been the Perhaps you have an area of giftedness phetic message can have on those hearing driving engine of the Seventh-day that fits you to be involved in personal it for the first time. Adventist Church. Imbued with ministry. Perhaps there’s an evangelistic From my own experience, I remember Sthe Holy Spirit’s power and an unshakable program of some kind scheduled for your having these timeless truths of Adventism conviction of the truths of our doctrinal– district. Pray about it, and pluck up the unfolded before me and seeing how all prophetic package, Adventist evangelists— courage to invite your work colleague, a the pieces of the prophetic jigsaw clicked both ordained and non-ordained—have relative or a neighbour—that’s how I was together and made sense. I remember the made the Seventh-day Adventist Church introduced to Jesus and His Word. Statis- point when I first realised with delighted the most widespread Protestant denomi- tics show that, in all likelihood, the person surprise that there are answers to the cosmic nation on earth. with whom you have even a slightly posi- questions of the universe; God has given us But increasingly in Australia, our church tive relationship will attend an evangelistic a package of truth that is so intellectually is witnessing a widening gulf between those event if you invite them. satisfying and it—eventually—became so few actively involved in some form of evan- You could even knock on doors and per- spiritually fulfilling as Jesus came into my gelism and the majority of our membership, sonally put a flyer in a stranger’s hand. This life through God’s Word. I came to know who could be described as almost passive is much more effective than letterboxing. by experience faith does indeed come by toward outreach. An enormous opportunity hearing the Word of God (see Romans to share our life-changing message with our Try to imagine the 10:17), and with faith and conversion comes fellow Australians is being missed, for want a beautiful new life, as I was freed from the of more commitment and involvement on tremendous impact narrow dungeon of my former captivity. the part of our membership at large. Don’t be tempted to think outreach is just This is a scary thought when we realise our prophetic for the “spiritually elite super Christians.” the Bible teaches that the near future could The Great Commission to make disciples witness catastrophic events happening in message can have is the marching orders of every person our world. The prospect of a world eco- on those hearing it who takes the name of Christian. Indeed, nomic recession, increasing political and we could conclude from Jesus’ parable of societal unrest, natural disasters on the rise, for the first time. the talents in Matthew 25 that there are the insidious drift toward spiritualism and eternal consequences associated with what various forms of the occult—all are shout- Just grit your teeth and do it. It will pay we do with this God-given responsibility ing out to us that it’s not just business as enormous dividends. You can also donate and privilege. And in the same chapter, usual. We are living in the twilight of this money toward evangelism. the measure of whether we cared or didn’t world’s civilisation as we know it; we’re liv- Another thing you can do is attend the care for the least of our fellow humans is ing in the time of the “Advent near.” outreach program yourself. Be there to the measure in the final judgment of how The urgency of the times compels us— encourage the teacher and assist in the we have treated Jesus. each one who takes the name of Seventh- program. You could usher, welcome the at- The last verse of Mark’s Gospel after day Adventist Christian—to do all within tendees, offer technical support, set up and Jesus’ ascension to heaven records: “Then our power and influence to proclaim the stack furniture, carry equipment, sit in the the disciples went out and preached every- positive good news and admonitions of the crowd, mix and mingle with the newcom- where, and the Lord worked with them” Bible in these uncertain days. We know ers, or just sit quietly and pray. (Mark 16:20, NIV). As we seek to feed only those settled in the truth both intel- You may even decide to run your own the flame of evangelism, the Lord still lectually and spiritually—so they cannot program. All the materials are already writ- works with His disciples. As we work to- be moved—will survive the coming storm. ten and available. gether with God, the best days of Advent- Our neighbours need to know our message So what if you’ve heard Daniel 2 pre- ist evangelism are upon us. Pentecost lies like never before! sented a hundred times before? Realise just ahead! R “But what can I do?” I hear you ask, that it’s a powerful prophecy for establish- “I’m not a gifted public speaker!” There’s ing the historicist interpretation of the rest plenty each of us can do, and it starts with of the Book of Daniel. A person who has being prepared to step outside our com- heard these prophecies can often become Mike Brownhill pastors on the fort zone and be involved in some form blasé about hearing them again but try to Sunshine Coast, Queensland.
8 November 22, 2008 feature Russian evangelist seeks bigger vision by Reg Brown
astor Vadim Boutov and his tianity. During the 70 years of the wife, Helen, recently visited Aus- Tsar dictatorship, the Russian Or- tralia, speaking at the North New thodox Church flourished. Then South Wales Conference camp- came Communism and authorities Pmeeting, the Reedy Creek church (Gold banned religion to foster a culture Coast, Qld) and the Russian church in of atheism. Under this philosophy, Sydney. Pastor Boutov is president of the officials attempted to brainwash Volga Conference in Russia and a promi- people into believing there is no nent public evangelist. God. With the fall of Communism, Pastor Boutov spoke about the progress there was a hungering in people’s of the Adventist Church in Russia and his hearts and minds to know God. Pastor Vadim Boutov (left) translates as his wife, passion for evangelism. Bibles had been confiscated, so how Helen, speaks at the Reedy Creek church, Qld. could they know? How did you begin life as a Christian in In 1991, Pastor Carter—with the sup- our churches are flourishing in bringing an atheistic culture? port of American friends and with great people to Christ and the truth. I was born into an atheistic home, later difficulty—held a small mission in Moscow converted to the Russian Orthodox religion that resulted in 100 baptisms. In 1992, a It said many times that “the days of and, from there, became a Seventh-day Ad- major effort was held in the city of Nizh- public evangelism are over.” How do you ventist. I worked at a trade after finishing ny Novgorod and more than 2500 people respond? school, then attended the Zaokiki Theo- were baptised. A gospel flame was lit that In your division, you have well-trained logical Seminary. I subsequently attended swept throughout Russia and is still burn- ministers and evangelists. They are educat- one of Pastor John Carter’s evangelistic ing today. Praise God. ed in the “best preaching school”—Avon- meetings. I was baptised by him and then dale College—in the world. They receive spent 14 years as his interpreter. I was in- Have the new Christian churches faced a professional education and training that spired by his preaching and determined to opposition and, if so, from where has it is second to none. They are well prepared become an evangelist. come? for public evangelism. Officially, Christian churches are allowed I believe public evangelism today requires As conference president, you are still con- to function but they receive opposition from that we think big, spend big money on ad- ducting evangelistic programs. How do you two main sources. Government officials vertising, and choose the best and biggest squeeze them in with other duties? at local levels can make life difficult. For venues. Do big promotion by doorknock- I have 37 pastors in my conference. I instance, if an Adventist church wants to ing, rather than letterboxing. want them to do evangelism too, and the build, there is resistance to granting a per- In Australia and New Zealand, you have best way to motivate them is for me to do mit. In most cases, a church building has to big cities with big ethnic populations. Many it. I conduct three or four a year and, in be applied for in the name of a member, who of these people are starting life in a new the past 18 months, have baptised about then rents the building to the church. country, and are open to new ideas about 1500 people. I love preaching the gospel. The other source of opposition is the Rus- faith and religion. They are searching for There is nothing more important than sian Orthodox Church, the official religion a future that can only be found in God and bringing people to Jesus and studying the of the country. It has great influence in the the Bible. I pray for big visions, both here Bible with them. affairs of state and many privileges that are and in my country. R denied Adventist and other churches. Australian evangelist John Carter has Despite the opposition, when we want to been enormously successful in Russia over rent halls and establish churches, the Lord Reg Brown is a retired pastor, who many years. How did this come about? has wonderfully blessed and miracles hap- writes from the Gold Coast, Russia has a long history of basic Chris- pen. Members are on fire for the Lord, and Queensland.
November 22, 2008 9 feature Slave? by John Denne
lavery formed part of the Two hundred years ago last year (1807), to a fellow countryman, he was not to be culture and fabric of ancient Egypt, slave trading was abolished in the United treated as a slave but as a hired worker.6 China, Greece and Rome: for ex- Kingdom but not until 1834 was slavery If you had been a son or daughter of a ample, “even the poorest citizen in abolished throughout the British Empire. well-to-do citizen in Jerusalem in the first SAthens owned at least one slave.”1 Yet a 2003 report estimates that as many century AD, your father may well have In Rome, where up to 20 per cent of the as 900,000 people—the majority being owned a foreign slave, probably a prisoner population were slaves, Titus sold 90,000 women or children forced into prostitu- of war, who was the property of your father, Jews into bondage in 70 AD.2 To be such tion—are trafficked across national borders just like children may own a dog or a pony a slave was to be stripped of individual each year. This figure does not include those today.7 Such a man was Malchus, the High rights and to become the property of an- trafficked within countries. Priest’s “slave”—not “servant”—whose ear other person. Though philosophically rejected by most Peter cut off (see John 18:10). Until 1900, probably more African slaves today, slavery has been an accepted part of Slaves were classed with immobile were transported by Arab, Indian and Ori- many cultures for millennia and continues goods, had no rights at law and could not ental traders, than the 11 to 12 million who to be a tragic reality in our world. own property. Even a slave’s family did were transported to the Americas.3 Only not belong to him.8 However, they could 300,000 Africans who came to the Ameri- The owner and be circumcised, if they chose, and become cas went to the United States by the time the owned a Jew and a member of the family,9 attend slavery was banned in 1808. Most slaves Slaves were usually expensive. They were Passover and not work on Sabbaths. Slaves traded across the Atlantic went to Brazil valuable property—a status symbol. in Jewish homes did not work at night. Ob- and the Caribbean. While many were treated badly, often serving that they treated their slaves better Many white slaves also came into the they were well looked after so they would than others did, Jews boasted that only Gen- Arab world. The Ottomans took slaves provide the best service for their owner. tiles treated their slaves with cruelty.10 from eastern Europe and southern Russia. Many rose to significant responsibility. The New Testament is full of references Most were Christians and the males were There have been famous slaves: the biblical and allusions to slavery. Lord, mentioned often castrated. Joseph was a slave. The Jews became slaves more than 600 times in the New Testament, Historically, slaves were prizes of war or in Egypt. Aesop—famous for his fables— is the necessary corollary of slave.11 Terms kidnapping. Some were sold into slavery was a Greek slave. Spartacus led the Servile such as “being free,” “redeemed,” “bought by their parents as a means of surviving ex- revolt. Jesus healed the slave the centurion at a price,” “master,” “body,”12 “the seal of treme conditions. Most were born as slaves. in Capernaum valued so much. Paul wrote God,” and often “servant,” “adoption” and They were usually sold and purchased, or to Philemon about his slave, Onesimus. St “debt,” can all be better understood when they could be bartered. Slaves had no indi- Patrick was kidnapped by pirates, enslaved we remember they relate to a culture that vidual rights but they could be ransomed in Ireland, escaped to Britain and returned lived with slavery. to be freed. to Ireland as a missionary. And Enrique was Thirteen of Jesus’ parables, like the king the slave of Ferdinand Magellan. settling accounts and the parable of the tal- Sometimes, free citizens chose slavery ents, include “slaves,”13 not free “servants” to achieve status. In the Roman empire, as it is usually translated. Those who were “‘socially mobile’ slaves often enjoyed a to prepare the robe, ring and sandals for higher standard of living than many free the prodigal son were “slaves,” not mere citizens.”4 We should not imagine all slaves “servants.”14 There is a vast difference were confined to menial tasks. Some were between the two and if we do not recog- executives with heavy responsibilities.5 nise it, we cannot grasp what Scripture is Accordingly, slavery could provide ben- communicating to us about our relation- efits for both owners and their slaves. ship with God. In the new Christian church, there was to Understanding be no classification of “slave” or “free,” for biblical culture all are one in Christ (see Galatians 3:28). It In the Old Testament, Israelites were was this principle that led to the abolition only to seek foreign slaves, and if a Jew be- of the servitude of one man to another in came hopelessly indebted and sold himself British colonies and the USA.
10 November 22, 2008 feature
Almost always in the Bible, “servant” most generous Lord in the universe. They We are Christ’s property. We are stewards, should be translated as “slave.”15 Therefore, were threatened by losing their own self- totally owned by another, whose assets we to correctly interpret Scripture and, indeed, importance. Instead, their security should care for. It is this possession that provides to have a meaningful relationship with God, have been in voluntarily serving the King for human security and happiness. It is this we need to read Scripture knowing slavery of glory as a slave. that provides for our identity, purpose and was an integral part of biblical culture. By contrast, Paul introduced himself as significance. “doulos” (a slave) in Romans 1:1, Philip- For truly, Jesus still says to us, “If you hold Paradigm for New pians 1:1 and Titus 1:1, as did James in 1:1 to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Testament use and John in Revelation 1:1. In fact, Revela- Then you will know the truth, and the truth The Israelites had been redeemed from tion is written to the slaves of Jesus Christ. will set you free” (John 8:31, 32). slavery by God when He “purchased” them Those who choose to belong to Christ are This is reality for His slaves! R from Egypt. He owned them. They were delighted to be called His slaves; He has His.16 They were to be voluntary slaves to rescued them from the toughest master 1. A C Bouquet, Everyday Life In New Testament Times, Jahweh, the sovereign who had freed them so they can have pleasure in serving Him. Batsford, 1970, page 152. to belong to His family and be blessed by They are therefore free because by belong- 2. Elwell’s Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Baker, His ways. ing to Christ, they can become what they 1985, page 1021. Paul used this Old Testament paradigm were made for. 3. S Mintz, “Digital History Slavery, Facts and Myths,” quoted in Wikipedia. of slaves leaving one master or lord and 4. Murray J Harris, Slave of Christ, IVP, 1999, page 36. being “redeemed” to belong to the best Jesus the slave Master in the universe.17 Jesus gave up who He was to teach by 5. ibid, page 35. Being “free” is not freedom from a master. example what it meant to be a slave. The 6. See Leviticus 25, Exodus 21:1-11 and Deuteronomy 15:12-18. Being “free” is in choosing the master who hymn in Philippians 2 portrays this sub- provides freedom for his slaves. limely.19 Christ gave up His property. He 7. Bouquet, op cit, page 151. claimed no civil rights and He lived under 8. G Kittel, TDNT, Vol II, Eerdmans, 1971, page 271. To be “set free” the authority of God’s commands. He il- 9. Daniel Rops, Daily Life In Palestine at the Time of Christ, Weidenfield and Nicolson, 1962, page 143. “Slave” for the rabbis constituted one lustrated this by acting as a foreign slave of the worst insults one man could hurl at and washing His disciples’ feet (see John 10. Bouquet, op cit, page 152. another,18 so when Jesus spoke the words 13:1-17). His example of being a slave was 11. Harris, op cit, pages 88ff. recorded in John 8:31-47—“The truth will to show us how our lives can be blessed. 12. From as early as the third century BC, the expres- set you free”—He really upset them. Christ was the Lord of the slaves and gave sion “a body” was used to describe a slave—if you had “a body” it meant that you had a slave. See Harris, Telling people they needed to be “set His life to set them free. page 111. Note how this applies to 1 Corinthians 12, free” (verse 32) was telling them they were especially verse 27. “slaves or foreigners.” If they were “slaves 13. Harris, op cit, page 47. to sin” (verse 34), that would mean they did Who is on the 14. Compare “doulos” (slave) and “diakonos” not belong to God. It meant they did not honour board? (servant). follow Him who was the truth. Therefore, Moses, Joshua, Abraham, David, Isaac 15. Harris says (pages 184, 185) that “slavery in the West in response to Jesus’ implication that they and the prophets all had the honorary title is a patent embarrassment to most people” and that were “slaves,” His audience wanted to kill of being a “slave of God” because their lives this accounts for a significant reason for the reluctance Him (verse 37). were exemplary.20 They were committed to translate doulos as “slave.” Goodspeed is the only modern English translation that consistently translates In the first century, many Jewish religious because they knew Who owned them. Is- doulos as “slave.” leaders did not see their personal need to be rael, as God’s nation, also had the title. The 16. See Deuteronomy 5:15, 15:15 and Leviticus 25:55, “set free” from sin. They thought the only apostles were also proud to call themselves where the Hebrew “Ebed” should be translated as freedom they needed was that provided by “slaves of Jesus Christ.” Any attitude toward “slave,” not “servant.” Moses. They didn’t like the concept of being God that rejects that of being a slave implies 17. See 1 Thessalonians 1:9—“you turned to God from God’s steward and caring for, rather than that one is a “runaway,” disobedient or not idols to be slaves of the living and true God”—and also owning, His property. They didn’t like the faithful to His cause. Romans 6:17-23—“you used to be slaves to sin. . . . You concept of having no money to call their We know the most respected Christians have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” own, of having no civil rights, of having no and those who live the most significant 18. TDNT, op cit, page 271. rights in the eternal court, of being adopted and meaningful lives are those who figu- and of having a Lord who gave them com- ratively live as adopted, freed, yet willing 19. Especially verse 7 where “servant” should be trans- lated as “slave.” mands to be followed. They didn’t want to slaves. Think of them. They have been 20. TDNT, op cit, page 268. be regarded as a slave or stewards. They captive-ated. wanted to have ownership and control. They concentrated on what they would What about us? John Denne is secretary of the Ministerial Association and director have to give up to be a slave, rather than Those of us today who claim the name of church development for the concentrating on what they would gain of Christ by calling ourselves “Christian” Victorian conference, based in from belonging to the richest, wisest and are called to be nothing less than slaves. Nunawading, Victoria.
November 22, 2008 11 feature Emmaus to Launceston
by Harley Stanton
t times, I can imagine what the lonely road headed to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13-35) must have been like. A couple of disconsolate pilgrims were heading home from one of the most discouraging days of their lives and are joinedA by a fellow traveller: “Haven’t you heard?” “Don’t you know about what has happened?” “Didn’t you hear what has happened to the Healer, how He was crucified?” Our church in Launceston was thin in numbers. School holidays provided many families with the opportunity to head for warmer latitudes. Numbers were further influenced by flu plaguing many in the church. It was the last Sabbath of the Week of Prayer and our senior elder shared the reading for the day, interspersed with some personal experiences that made you think of “the times and seasons.” Before the worship service, I leaned forward to greet a young woman who had quietly slipped into the seat in front of us, along with three of her friends. Friendship costs little and gives much: “Happy Sabbath. Just visiting?” Well, of course, some things are obvious! “Yes, from Moe church. We are in Tasmania for the weekend with our friend, Del, who is terminally ill. She had never been to Tassie, so we have brought her over for the weekend.” There are times when you wish you had not asked the question. You struggle with the resolution of the issues your question has raised. That’s how I felt! At the end of the service, I moved across to greet Delwyn Scale, not knowing the depth of experience that was about to be shared. Across the pale complexion, a broad smile greeted me and from deep within this young heart, I felt I was being warmed in my soul—much as the disciples felt on the Emmaus road. Worship was over; the visitors were gone. Yet within me, I still felt the warmth of that smile. It was a smile that spoke deeply about the experience of her life, looking beyond the pain of her ravaged body to the promises she has locked in her heart. They are the promises of a risen Saviour, who pointed beyond the grave. They are promises that say, “Life is not always about duration but about your donation.” They are promises that ring with the promise: “I will come again . . .” Emmaus is a long way from Launceston. But we shared our experiences, journeying together down that Emmaus road. And we have been encouraged. Thanks, Del. R
Harley Stanton writes from Launceston, Tasmania. Taylor Peta
12 November 22, 2008 letters
we offer a positive alternative? they are right about this? Have we also Sponsoring positives Sanitarium is a good company of which forgotten God’s promise to Noah after the we should be proud, as well as thankful flood: “As long as the earth endures, seed- Robyn Sim, Nz our church has been blessed in this way. time and harvest, cold and heat, summer The “Sponsor thoughts” letters (October Sanitarium’s sponsorship of sporting events and winter, day and night will never cease” 25) suggest the sponsorship of the All Blacks and the like is a wonderful opportunity to (Genesis 8:22, NIV). is “not a good image for our church.” But have a positive influence in an arena that People fear the end of the world and how should an Adventist organisation like Sani- often sends mixed messages. Let’s keep the it will happen. While we need to be good tarium shut itself off from associating with big picture in mind. stewards and care for the earth, we need “worldly” organisations, and become insu- lar and exclusive? The All Blacks have vis- They breathe a refreshingly positive, ited Sanitarium, sat through our worships and been prayed for. They have attended creative and encouraging breeze the Weet-Bix TRY-athlons and enjoyed the unique culture that is Sanitarium. Because across the face of the church. of our sponsorship, we have had wonderful Carl Windus, Qld to ask whether these theories are serving to opportunities to expose these young men, “Unequally yoked?” (Letters, November draw resources away from where we should as well as their coach and leaders, to our 1) is rather interesting. A commercial real- be channelling our money, and drawing our Christian culture, allowing them to see ity of business is that produce is sold dur- attention away from the fact that earth’s we love the Lord and uphold Him in our ing our Sabbath hours. Perhaps if we are days are numbered anyway. business and personal lives. Isn’t that what going to protest the sponsorship of a cricket we are here for? competition, we should be picketing Sani- tarium to have their products unavailable Excellent editorials Val Charlton, NSW for purchase on the Sabbath from Coles I’ve noted with interest the comments and Woolworths. Perhaps we should also Hugh Heenan, NZ regarding Sanitarium’s sponsorship of the be switching off essential services, as we I want to congratulate Record on the Sheffield Shield. In a perfect world, eve- are commanded to let no alien work for excellent work the editorial team does and ryone would keep the Sabbath and no-one our benefit on the Sabbath. the influence they bring as “thought leaders” would drink, smoke or live immorally, so We are quite happy to let the church within God’s church. The noticeable increase there would be no questions regarding take the financial rewards from the sale of in a broader balance of perspectives within sponsorship of sport. But in the world we Sanitarium’s products but perhaps instead the articles included is appreciated and some live in, I would prefer to see Sanitarium as of looking outward at other people’s splin- recent editorials have been outstanding. a sponsor of sport, rather than tobacco or ters, we should be more concerned about Some guest editorials have been won- alcohol companies. I applaud the company’s the logs in our own eyes? derful but I’m especially impressed with plan to associate sport with healthy living the consistently high standard of regular rather than the alternative. editorials. In particular, I want to congratu- Green-wash? late the editors on the following examples: Brenden Cooke, Qld “Faithfulness matters” (October 25), “Pre- There are a number of perspectives about Danny Bell, WA diction or prophecy?” (October 18), “Target Sanitarium’s sponsorship of sporting events “Church encourages ‘going green’” nurturing” (August 23), “Consider beauty” and teams but I suspect many of those who (News, November 1) seems to be going (July 19) and “Come to the table” (June 7). decry Sanitarium’s sponsorships are the along with the popular idea that climate Not only do they display deep empathy, same people who complain that a lot of change today is somehow caused by hu- considered insights and a pleasant versatil- sporting events and people are sponsored mans. There are many scientific arguments ity of expression, they breathe a refresh- by alcohol companies. that suggest this is not the case. ingly positive, creative and encouraging I agree that there needs to be some discre- Climate change may be caused by solar breeze across the face of the church. We tion in the selection of events but, given that flares, which in the past 70 years show re- can be grateful to have fellow servants who an organisation is fundamentally appropri- markable parallels with temperature fluctua- use their giftedness for the benefit of the ate, when there are player indiscretions— tions on earth. Many scientists now oppose whole body. which are not condoned by anyone—surely the view that carbon pollution is the cause, this is an opportunity for the sponsor to ex- especially when humans only emit two per Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent ercise a positive influence on those involved. cent of the world’s carbon dioxide, with most those of the editors or the denomination. Letters The reality is we live in a consumer society of it coming from the world’s oceans. should be less than 250 words, and writers must include their name, address and phone number. All and, if we want to participate in society, we The vast majority of scientists who talk letters are edited to meet space and literary require- will be exposed to some of the negative—as about global warming are evolutionists. If ments, but the author’s original meaning will not be well as the positive—aspects. The question they are off course with ideas about the be- changed. Not all letters received are published. See is, are we influenced by the negative or do ginnings of the world, how can we be sure masthead (page 2) for contact details.
November 22, 2008 13 noticeboard
▲ Project Coordinator—Greater Sydney Conference (Sydney, NSW). Plans are un- derway to integrate the ministries of Kellyville church and the Hills Adventist Col- Positions vacant lege (K–12), located in the north-western region of Sydney, to increase the impact ▲▲ Financial Controller—Signs Publishing Company (Warburton, Vic) is seeking a full- and influence of the SDA Church in the region. A component of this development time financial controller, commencing January 2009. This important role requires is major capital works project over the next 10 years. A shared vision is being de- a person with excellent accounting, management and people skills. Duties include veloped, incorporating innovative approaches to formal education, community financial management, balance sheet preparation, preparation and monitoring of engagement, development and discipleship, and spiritual growth. Expressions of budgets, and ongoing management reporting. The successful applicant will hold a interest are called for persons with proven leadership qualities and skills, strong suitable degree in a relevant discipline and preferably be a member of the Austral- project management abilities, passion, enthusiasm and a commitment to Jesus ian Society of CPAs. Commitment to quality and service, together with a respect for Christ. Applications and CV should be forwarded to Pastor Michael Worker, Christian values and ethics, are essential. For further information, contact Glen Reed email
14 November 22, 2008 noticeboard health work in spreading the gospel in the Anita
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Christchurch Evangelism 2009 If you have ever needed an excuse to visit Christchurch, now you have it! Come and be a part of an innovative approach to evangelism with Pastor Leo Schreven. Evangelist, businessman, author and TV personality, Pastor Schreven is to be the speaker for the 2009 Christchurch evangelism program, January 30 to February 1. Pastor Schreven successfully uses a non-traditional method to evangelise in order to reach the secular mind. He achieves this through a weekend, principle-based motivational seminar for physical, mental, spiritual, emotional and financial success with the ultimate goal to bring each person into a personal relationship with their Creator. Those attending will then be invited to the follow-up prophecy seminar that will commence on February 6. A two-week school of evangelism will commence February 2, with key speakers being Pr Leo Schreven, Pr Gary Gibbs (vice-president Hope Channel), Pr Loren Pratt and Pr Graeme Bradford. All are invited to attend! For more information, visit
November 22, 2008 15