she is even trying to participate in different social activities. Changing lives in Nepal When ADRA came in contact with Udaya, he avoided interacting with others, was afraid to leave the house, had become an insom- hen Devimaya, 27, was studying Part of ADRA’s current initiative in Nepal, niac, had lost appetite and weight, and was to become a nurse, she never co-financed by the European Commission convinced his father’s killers would return to imagined being involved in party and ADRA-UK, is to educate and empower kill him too. Moreover, he was struggling with Wpolitics: but in December of 1999 young people through literacy and vocational memory loss, unable to remember simple she was suddenly escorted off campus by a training, and provide psycho-social support. facts or tasks; for example, he would leave police officer, charged with providing support Through the help of its local partner, ASTHA, home to get water from the tap, but return to Maoists and their activities. ADRA Nepal is training district counsellors without the water jar. After fourteen months of mental and phys- and community psycho-social workers in Through the counselling ADRA has provid- ical torture, she was finally released. Once order to provide psycho-social counselling ed, he has received the emotional support he home she was persecuted by locals who con- and education. needed. Udaya is making significant progress; tinued to believe her to be a Maoist supporter. In September 2010, ADRA met with his behaviour, relationships with others and Udaya Oli was 10 years old when his Devimaya. She had been suffering from a memory are all improving. This has enabled father was assassinated by one of the number of psycho-social problems, including him to recognise his problems and learn conflicting parties. He was unable to anger, trouble concentrating, and headaches. coping methods. He is actively taking part attend school for months, suffering from She also was suffering from loneliness, since in community activities, as well as attending psycho-social problems. she had distanced herself from the rest of the classes. Udaya has a set of goals and a plan These problems only increased when community and her family. of action for his future. he transferred into secondary school; he ADRA provided her with a safe social Over the next eighteen months, ADRA had to walk several hours to school, and environment, which allowed her, for the first and its partners will provide psycho-social immediately return after classes ended in time, to share her experience and feelings support for 2,000 such children and young order to work and provide food for his family. with others. ADRA also provided counselling adults. This project in Nepal, and the other Devimaya and Udaya are among thou- for her family, and education about psycho- life-skills education, literacy and vocational sands of children and young adults who have social care, helping re-establish Devimaya’s training, will give 4,000 young people the suffered from the decade-long civil conflict in family as a source of support in her life. opportunity to begin a new stage in their lives. Nepal. Though it ended five years ago, many With this help, she is now comfortable young people are still struggling to overcome sharing her problems with her family and For more information, go to: www.adra.org.uk. the repercussions. But this is where ADRA others she trusts. Devimaya’s relationship and its partners are effecting change. with her friends and family has improved, and EDITED BY KAITLYN RASMUSSEN 2 3 Corrigendum: Laura Prescott's name appeared incorrectly in Messenger 8 July, and the article sorry . . . ! is reprinted in this issue. The MESSENGER edito- editorial rial and design team would like to thank all news contributors for the care they take when Dear Readers submitting the names of those mentioned in I have just clocked up seven months as editor of the MESSENGER, and it is now time for a few their news reports. We rely on your continued apologies. Up to the 24 June issue of the magazine we had a fairly good track record regarding diligence and accuracy is this regard. such things, but in that issue the proverbial wheels ‘came off’! We offended some of the nicest, All of us cherish special dates, and I have a most salt-of-the-earth people you could wish to find: our members in Northern Ireland. few good ones in my memory bank. My baptism date was 24 August, 1968, and I got married on Christmas Eve 1974 – memorable Julian Hibbert This offence was caused by the following: Milk is not Editor 1. The use of a Gaelic typeface on the front cover, the old name for , and a closing Aand definitive moments. There are others too, blessing in the Irish language. but I’ll not bore you with them. 2. The mention of a number of acronyms which have political overtones. Let me tell you about what happened on 3. The fact that some important information was edited out of the report on the renovation of 26 December, 1975, something that made the Belfast church (page 14). me part of a select group: those who have come ‘face-to-face’ with Hemachatus good enough When editors offend people’s consciences they are usually on target, but when they offend haemachatus. in matters of language and culture they should apologise without reserve. So to my friends in My wife’s family had gathered for the Belfast, please accept my sincere apologies. marriage of her older sister, scheduled for the next day, and most of the adults were busy For the cover I can do little more than apologise and be more sensitive in the future. For the 1 2 news item glitch, I have arranged for some prominent restitution to take place in a forthcoming with preparations. has a neurotoxic venom which, when it enters the eyes, ‘causes great pain’. That pain is issue. Suddenly there was the squeal of sharp unique. It is like burning, coarse sand beneath your eyelids. If left untreated, it can cause a significant deterioration of the victim’s eyesight, even blindness. THE EDITOR braking from the street, and a woman’s shrill voice calling: ‘A big snake has just crossed I was pretty helpless by that stage of the game. I couldn’t see clearly. I was in considerable Bramble doesn’t Gamble! the road into your yard . . . and there are pain. I was drenched in fresh milk – and milk wasn’t enough! Dear Readers children there!’ While we are on the subject of mistakes, let me also confess that Mr Charles Bramble recently Growing up in Southern Africa with its A pair of eye patches became a victim of the elusive ‘printer’s devil’, when his name appeared consistently on pages proliferation of large, aggressive and very The family bundled me into a car and sped across town to the hospital, where I received four and five of the 24 June MESSENGER as Charles Gamble! I have apologised to him on behalf poisonous snakes, I knew the danger that immediate attention, including anti-venom eye drops that seemed more painful than the snake of MESSENGER and he has taken the misprint in good spirit. suddenly faced us. My brother-in-law helped spittle! Charles has been promised a follow-up feature on the granoVita/Wellingborough project, me get the children to safety, after which we I left the hospital with a pair of Johnny Depp eye patches and a once the building gets under way. At that point we will make sure that we get it right! went in search of the snake. caution to keep them on for a few days. THE EDITOR I had selected a long piece of 2x2 timber as my weapon, and upon find- The anti-venom was essential ing the snake I took a swing at it. One thing is clear to me about that ‘face-to-face’ encounter The timber snapped in two, leav- with Hemachatus haemachatus: the milk was helpful, but • Subdural haematoma – a collection of blood on the surface of the ing me facing an angry snake the anti-venom was essential. brain. This is more common in the extremes of age (very young or with a short-range weapon! And I think that is what Jesus was trying to tell Nicodemus in very old). It can occur as a result of repeated head injury, recurrent Undeterred, I struck again John 3:14-15 (NKJV): falls, anticoagulant medication (blood thinners, including aspirin) and and again. The large snake ‘And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must by Sharon Platt-McDonald the long-term abuse of alcohol. appeared to be stunned and the Son of Man be lifted up, that whosoever believes in Him should not RGN, RM, RHV, MSc • Epilepsy – recurring seizures brought on by abnormal over-activity of was lying on its back. perish but have eternal life.’ Health Ministries director, BUC the cells of the brain, affecting different regions of the central nervous ‘I’ve got him!’ I shouted. He was drawing on the powerful imagery of Numbers 21, where system. This may result in physical convulsions. rebellious Israel is suddenly at the mercy of ‘fiery serpents’ that slither • Brain tumour – abnormal growth that involves the brain itself or its It spat first through the camp on a killing spree. Knowing your body – part 5b surrounding structures. This can upset vision, balance, co-ordination I then raised the timber for the The desperate Israelites plead urgently with Moses for God to and cognitive function. coup de grace, but it spat first intervene, and he does. Moses is ordered to make a ‘ . . . fiery serpent, • Parkinson’s disease – a degenerative disease leading to progressively Nervous system health – two streams of venom that and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he worsening neurological symptoms, generally related to movement, looks at it, shall live.’ (Verse 8, NKJV.) with tremors and rigidity. struck me in both eyes, causing In this issue we highlight some disorders affecting intense burning and seriously In the middle of this doomed and dying people, God introduces the • Spinal disease – any pathology affecting the spinal column, cord or quintessential3 anti-venom, a bronze serpent, symbolic of the crucified nerve tissue, and the factors which help to enhance its nerves. This can range from skeletal disorders to primary nervous blurred vision. function. I became disoriented and Christ, and tells them to look at it and live! And it works! In fact, it’s system disorders resulting from compression of the spinal cord or the only thing that works to counteract the venom of sin, with which A healthy brain functions automatically and effectively. nerves (as the result of a traumatic injury such as a fall or motor stumbled across the lawn. Then every child of Adam is poisoned. However, when aspects of our wellbeing are compro- vehicle accident). Degenerative spine disease is used generally to someone took my arm and led me For 6,000-odd years, ever since that fateful encounter with the mised, the nervous system can be affected. Here’s how: describe time-related changes of the spine due to both normal ageing into the house. My mother-in-law, and wear and tear of the vertebral column. Herniated disc disease is accustomed to medical emergencies in serpent, humanity has staggered blindly and painfully through history. Diseases and their effects one example. remote places, sat me on the floor and We have tried our treatments and remedies for sin – the ‘DIY’ • Cardiovascular disease – Stroke and vascular poured cold milk into my open eyes! packages – but none of them work. Here and there they may bring dementia • Convulsive disorder – Epilepsy Health tips a little relief to the sinner’s conscience, but they do not cure! • Degenerative diseases (adults) – Alzheimer’s Ensure optimal nutrition: in particular, eat enough foods that contain Milk wasn’t enough! The only cure is to be found, by faith, in the ‘lifted up’ (crucified) and Parkinson’s disease • Developmental dis - omega 3. The brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves are coated with The milk helps to dilute the large quanti- Christ. His saving grace is the only anti-venom . . . and it’s ours for orders – Cerebral palsy • Infectious diseases – a layer of fat, called myelin, which provides insulation to your nervous ties of venom that this snake spits, but the asking. AIDS; dementia • Metabolic diseases – system. Good fats rich in omega 3 nourish the brain and myelin. the family knew that I would need fur- Gaucher’s disease (type 3, affecting the Vitamins D and E may protect against some degenerative brain ther treatment – milk wasn’t enough! 1 brain) • Neurogenetic disorders – http://goafrica.about.com/od/africasafariguide/tp/Africansnakes.htm. disorders, and B12 enhances memory and assists in slowing the The Ring-necked Spitting Cobra, 2http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rinkhals. Huntington’s disease; muscular dystrophy • progress of Alzheimer’s disease. commonly called the ‘Rinkhals’, 3‘Ultimate’, http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/quintessential. Trauma – Head injury; spinal cord damage. Engage in exercises stimulating motor and sensory pathways: writing, drawing, brain games and sensory awareness exercises. Here are some common conditions affecting brain and nervous system

function: Good health! ©http://theherpetologist.blogspot.com/p/elapids.html 4 interview feature 5 ASI-UK sponsors Creation seminar Stefan Stanciu is employed by the South The MESSENGER editor talks to Jim Conference as their media technician, and serves as Cunningham, chairman of Adventist team leader under Dr Richard de Lisser (SEC Services and Industries (UK), more commonly known Communication director). The following is his synopsis of SECmedia’s development and the ‘stuff’ they do. . . . as ASI-UK.

Editor: ‘Jim, ASI is not as enquiries ask what is in it for SECmedia was set up exactly three years ago after Dr Richard de well-known as one would hope. them! Essentially ASI is a Lisser, Pastor Sam Neves and I sparked the dream into existence. Please tell our readers a bit more service-oriented association. A small group of us visited Stimme der Hoffnung, the German about it.’ People join it in order to serve, ‘Voice of Hope’ studio, which set a standard for us, something to not receive! There are tangible which we could aspire. That visit convinced us that anything we did Jim: ‘Julian, ASI was formed in benefits besides the thrill of doing would have to be of the highest quality. the early 1980s, with the primary something for your fellow man, The team started forming in 2008 and it has been growing ever aim of sharing Christ in the though. For example, our week- since. We are actually part of the SEC Communication department, but marketplace. Its membership end conventions are a wonderful our team has spread beyond the conference office. We now have a consists of business people and opportunity for fellowship, core team that works closely throughout the year on various projects, those from a professional and reflection and spiritual growth.’ assisted by a growing number of volunteers from across the SEC. managerial background who are The stuff we do: Main team members: Darren Allen, Valentin prepared to give time, effort and Editor: ‘What are your objectives Our main strengths are live event production and web streaming. Buliga, Clive Coutet, Andraé Johnson, Karl resources to support the chal- for this year?’ Johnson, Katie Ramharacksingh, Stefan lenge of effectively sharing the We do this either from our well-equipped studio or from our mobile Stanciu and Laith Wallace broadcasting unit. More recently we have tried our hand at studio Gospel in a very secularised Jim: ‘Currently, we have three culture. They also help with clear, short-term objectives. The productions and short documentaries. Our team has members with other projects, mainly of a first is to increase our member- the following skills: iPhone application development; web development; The SECmedia team humanitarian nature.’ ship. Secondly, we want to create audio & video engineering; graphic & systems design; post-production; a project that will be effective in script writing and DVD authoring and duplication. Darren Allen: ‘I have always electronics have always been Editor: ‘What is your current getting our unique Adventist mes- been passionate about technol- part of my life, since watching membership?’ sage across to people generally. Where to watch: ogy, and I am excited about using my dad fix things as a child. I Thirdly, we want to help curtail Our productions can be watched on www.secmedia.org, my skills in this field to further love sound! And it is an honour www..com/secadventist, and Revelation TV (Freesat God’s work. I enjoy knowing that to serve God and my Church with Jim: ‘The membership is about the haemorrhaging of young peo- 1 seventy-five, including students. ple from the Church; hence our channel 692). what we do affects thousands of SECmedia.’ The fact that we accept students intention to sponsor a seminar on people around the world.’ is unique among the European Creation and evolution at Hopes and dreams: Karl Johnson: ‘I have a passion chapters of ASI. We even have Newbold College on Sabbath, We’ve seen how God has helped us grow this far and we are Val Buliga: ‘I’m really passionate for media ministry, and I love the two on our committee. 17 September, from 2pm to 5pm. reassured of the fact that he is going to stick with us for many years about media stuff. I see my role fact that we’re using this media ‘Unfortunately, there is a myth Young people in particular are to come! Our dream is to bring fresh, Adventist programming to the as an opportunity to use what I to reach individuals who may affecting the UK organisation: invited to this seminar, but all UK and we hope for increased collaboration with other Adventist love to do. I’m happy working never enter the four walls of a namely, that it is ‘a white, rich interested parties are welcome, media entities. with SECmedia because it gives church.’ man’s club’. Both Audrey free of charge. Just register me a chance to spread what we Balderstone, the previous presi- your seat by contacting me at: 1See www.skydream.tv for more details. have experienced on a small Katie Ramharacksingh: ‘I love dent, and I have tried to alter this j.cunningham.323@btinternet. scale to a wider audience. It is being creative in an area that perception by reaching out to the com.’ the ultimate way of spreading our counts. As the only female on the other groups within the Church, message in this era.’ SECmedia team, I try to balance but without much success so far. Editor: ‘Jim, why this choice of out the testosterone while ASI-UK needs the passion and topic for the seminar?’ Clive Coutet: ‘Matthew 24:14 attempting to convey my ideas enthusiasm that these other drives me to work for SECmedia, and creativity to a bunch of ethnic communities will con- Jim: ‘Julian, for me, one of the as well as a passion for what I do technical, analytical and logical An awesome tribute, and we look forward to most important Bible texts is . . . which is video editing! I love men! My favourite role is acting applications from them. Genesis 1:27, where it states that and family breakdown. What scepticism of evolution is the people I work with as well as as interviewer; through this I impact. . . . ‘I have come to realise that a we were created in God’s image. those young people wanted more based on his profound scientific the various jobs I do throughout have been able to interview number of our African immigrants This compels me to have pro- than anything else was respect. insights, and he will share some the year – I couldn’t work without some fabulous people: Dr Richard de Lisser recently come from countries where ASI found respect, both for God and Our God provides that for them. of these with us. those two things.’ church members, speakers, shared these revealing facts is very active, and we could for my fellow man. It is the We ditch the doctrine of Creation ‘Dr Alistair Noble is the direc- musicians – even athletes!’ with us about the impact of benefit from their membership rationale behind the Ten at our peril.’ tor of the Centre for Intelligent Andraé Johnson: ‘Sound and SECmedia.org during the camp and experience.’ Commandments. It answers the Design, and has organised Laith Wallace: ‘Working for meeting period, 12-18 June: questions, ‘Who am I?’ and ‘Why Editor: ‘Tell us a bit more about national conventions and con- SECmedia develops my craft and ‘I remember you mention- am I here?’ It provides the clear- the two speakers for the event.’ ducted seminars on the topic. my ability to learn new skills. My Editor: • The site received 24,068 visits, 7,568 unique visitors, and 87,024 ing that some of the members est insight into why Christ is He is an excellent communicator role has become important to me page views. who contact you about ASI seem obsessed with our salvation. Jim: ‘John Walton is Professor with huge experience in this area.’ because it is a different way to • An average of 600 people watched the main programme each to misunderstand the purpose of ‘As a headteacher, I served a of Reactive Chemistry at St keep me active in the Church. I evening, with a further 200 viewing the youth events. joining.’ mainly white, working-class area Andrew’s University and has Editor: ‘Jim, thanks for sharing love that we get to travel to new • The website’s peak viewing was on Sabbath, with 860 viewers for that suffered from poverty, social spoken and written extensively with us, and God bless your places and interact with lots of the main auditorium events and 350 for the youth. Jim: ‘Yes, some who make dysfunction, substance abuse on Creation and evolution. John’s preparations.’ different people.’ 6 the Berean column 7 Philistine, and are you not the fight was already over. David evil in the heavenly realms.’ relationship with Jesus Christ. servants of Saul? Choose a man was doomed to fail. However, In short, human weapons and Nobody challenges a 10-foot with Andrew Puckering nurture and have him come down to me. David’s faith helped him look at armour are useless. We need to war machine to a fight without If he is able to fight and kill me, Goliath from a different perspec- realise that, because our battles some experience. Faith doesn’t we will become your subjects; tive. Goliath was a mortal man are spiritual battles against work that way. Faith grows as we by Kevin Cox* but if I overcome him and kill defying an immortal God, and Satan, we need to fight differ- trust God to help us overcome The foreigner him, you will become our sub- David knew that those stats did ently. Most of the giants we face everyday challenges. When we The elders of Bethlehem trembled. Samuel jects and serve us.” Then the not weigh up in Goliath’s favour. are not human. Paul recognises take on a challenge and see was coming! Nervously, they asked him Philistine said, “This day I defy If we look at ‘giant problems’ this in Ephesians 6:13-17: God’s work in our lives, our faith whether he came in peace (1 Samuel 16:4). the ranks of Israel! Give me a from a human perspective, they ‘. . . put on the full armor of grows. David had seen God work One has to wonder why they were so scared man and let us fight each other.” may seem intimidating and God, so that when the day of evil to vanquish lesser adversaries in – Samuel was well-known in Israel as a On hearing the Philistine’s impossible. However, if we look comes, you may be able to his life in the form of bears and prophet (1 Samuel 3:19-4:1). He had been judg- words, Saul and all the Israelites at giant problems from God’s stand your ground, and after you lions. ing Israel since the Ark returned from the Philistines, were dismayed and terrified.’ perspective, we soon realise that have done everything, to stand. If you take nothing else from and following his intercession God defeated the Philistines Would you have fought giant problems become small Stand firm then, with the belt of this article, take this analogy with for Israel (1 Samuel 7:2-14). Samuel went on a regular circuit Goliath? How would your stats problems, and the impossible truth buckled around your waist, you: throughout Israel, judging the people on the LORD’s behalf measure up against the giant of becomes possible. with the breastplate of righteous- David knew God could be (1 Samuel 8:15-17). Why were the Bethlehemites so afraid Gath? ness in place, and with your feet trusted on the battlefield of him? Facing giants fitted with the readiness that because he had learned to trust Maybe they feared him because he had denounced King The contender Giants can be physical or mental. comes from the gospel of peace. him in the sheep field. Saul (1 Samuel 15:22-29). Even though Samuel turned to Let me introduce you to the con- They can be multiple or singular, In addition to all this, take up the The question is, ‘How do we Saul again and allowed the king to worship, the two of them tender: David, a talented musi- and they can come in any shape shield of faith, with which you handle the sheep fields in our never spoke again until he died (1 Samuel 15:30, 31, 34, cian, an accomplished shepherd or size. Sometimes a giant can can extinguish all the flaming lives?’ Notice Jeremiah 12:5 35). That made Samuel afraid of Saul’s wrath (1 Samuel and a reliable delivery boy. David be a person who intimidates or arrows of the evil one. Take the (GW): 16:2); but why were the Bethlehemites worried? Maybe it David and was because Samuel had personally hacked a man in was not renowned as a giant- undermines you. At other times a helmet of salvation and the ‘If you have raced against slayer. Instead he spent his days giant may be a challenge that sword of the Spirit, which is the others on foot, and they have pieces before the LORD at Gilgal (1 Samuel 15:32, 33). If you’d playing music, looking after his requires your resources and word of God.’ tired you out, how can you com- done something wrong, then you would not want Samuel to judge father’s sheep and delivering time. Giants can be disabilities, David had the best set of pete with horses? If you stumble you! Did the Bethlehemites have something to hide? food to his older brothers in the giants can be financial, and armour available to him, and we in open country, how can you One of the Bethlehemites, Jesse, did. He was the grandson of Boaz, who married Ruth – a Moabitess (Ruth 4:9, 10, 13-17; Israelite army. It was during one giants can be personal. We all have the same armour available live in the jungle along the Matthew 1:5). To put this into context: while the Israelites were in of these delivery runs that David face giants, but take away their to us for our battles: the breast- Jordan River?’ the wilderness, the men had been seduced into following idols by heard Goliath insulting the army size, power and ability to intimi- plate of righteousness. Battles His message was simple. Get Moabite women, and the LORD sent a plague among the men, and of Israel. No Israelite was brave date and they can be defeated. against giants in our lives have to the small things right and the big ordered their judges to put them to death (Numbers 25:1-9). For Goliathenough to fight him, not even be fought with righteousness, things will follow. this reason the Israelites were ordered to attack the Midianites King Saul – who, as we know, Remember the size of our God prayer and faith. A famous proverb advises (another name for Moabites) (Numbers 25:17, 18; 31:1-11), and What does David say in 1 that the best form of defence is stood head and shoulders above The Israelites were terrified of Moabites were forbidden from entering the congregation of the every man in Israel. Goliath because of his incredible Samuel 17:47 (NIV)? attack. That is particularly impor- LORD, even to the tenth generation (Deuteronomy 23:3-5). One Was David afraid of Goliath? size and strength: but David ‘All those gathered here will tant when fighting giants. The can understand Jesse’s apprehension, then, when Judge Samuel Not according to 1 Samuel 17:32 knew that Goliath was out- know that it is not by sword or longer you wait, the bigger the walked into town! (NKJV): classed. Compared to God’s size spear that the LORD saves; for giant appears. The sooner you Imagine the Bethlehemites’ consternation when Samuel invited ‘David said to Saul, “Let no and strength, Goliath looked the battle is the LORD’s, and attack, the easier the battle. If Jesse to a sacrifice (1 Samuel 16:5). Jesse was the very man man’s heart fail because of him; puny (1 John 4:4, KJV): ‘. . . he will give all of you into our you have a difficult phone call to whose grandmother was a Moabitess! What was Samuel going to Your servant will go and fight greater is he that is in you, than hands.’ make . . . do it now. If you have do? Verses 6-13 of 1 Samuel 16 tell us that he anointed the with this Philistine.” ’ he that is in the world.’ When we face our enemies an apology to make, do it now. youngest of Jesse’s sons to be the next king of Israel. he phrase ‘David and Wins: The Israelites lacked bravery, It couldn’t be clearer: God is using God’s weapons, we are a If you have friends who have Was marriage to foreign women (including Moabites) no longer Goliath’ is often used to David Haye – 22 confidence and faith; David had greater than anything in this testimony to the amazing power stopped attending church, and an issue? Actually it was – Moabite women presented a danger to describe a situation where – 50 all three in abundance. world. A giant-killer must have of God. When you wear the you are worried about contacting the Israelites two generations later, in Solomon’s time (1 Kings Tsomeone small or weak faith; he (or she) must recognise armour of God your giants will them . . . do it now. 11:1-13), and they remained a live issue centuries later, when the defeats someone intimidating Haye stayed with Valuev Modern day-context that God is greater than any fall. Remember, the second step Whatever the problem – run Israelites returned from Babylon (Ezra 9; 10; Nehemiah 13:1-3, and powerful. Recently a boxer through each round, and at the If this had been a modern boxing giant. to overcoming giants is to fight towards your giants. 23-27). Why, then, did the LORD show mercy to Ruth’s family? by the name of David has made final bell was declared the heavy- match, it would not have been with God’s weapons. Ruth 1:16, 17 gives us the answer – Ruth publicly acknowl- quite a name for himself by weight champion of the world. allowed to go ahead. Goliath Fight with God’s weapons Conclusion edged the LORD as God, adopting the God of the Israelites rather beating a modern-day giant. An amazing story, but not quite would have qualified for the The next step to overcoming Run towards your giants I don’t know what giants you are than returning to her own nation’s gods, as her sister had done David Haye is a boxer who is as amazing as the events record- division, while giants is to fight with God’s The final step to overcoming facing. Maybe a problem at and as Naomi had advised (Ruth 1: 14, 15). We can see the neither small nor weak; he’s six ed in 1 Samuel 17:4-11 (NIV): David would have qualified for weapons. giants is to run towards your work, an issue with a friend, a LORD’s approval of her consequent marriage to Boaz in Ruth foot three and extremely power- ‘A champion named Goliath, the super-featherweight division. David defeated Goliath using giants. problem with finances, or a 4:13, where ‘. . . the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a ful. However, on 7 November who was from Gath, came out of That would leave at least nine the assets that God had given Let’s read 1 Samuel 17:48 recurring sin. Whatever it is, son’ (NKJV). Would he have blessed their union if he disapproved 2009 he sized up against Nikolai the Philistine camp. He was over weight divisions between them. him. We don’t need human (NIV): however big your giant, God is of it? As Romans 2 points out, the Gentiles (non-Jews) often had Valuev, who dwarfed him in nine feet tall. He had a bronze Imagine if you will: ‘In the blue weapons or human armour to ‘As the Philistine moved saying: God’s law written in their own hearts, as their conscience will every possible statistic: helmet on his head and wore a corner, weighing in at 25 stone, defeat our giants. Let’s read what closer to attack him, David ran ‘Grab your sling, pick up five show on the last day. In other words, it was not the race of the bronze coat of scale armour standing nearly 10 feet tall, with Paul has to say in Ephesians quickly toward the battle line to stones and stand up for me. I’ll Moabites that was the problem, but their religion – a religion Ruth Height: weighing five thousand shekels; 40 wins and 40 , the 6:10-12 (NIV): meet him.’ (Author’s emphasis.) take it from there! Trust me. Your had renounced in favour of the LORD, and for that demonstration David Haye – 6ft 3ins on his legs he wore bronze champion of the Philistines, ‘Finally, be strong in the Lord David did not think twice; “giant” is small fry. This battle is of faith God accepted her – a Moabitess – into the family of Nikolai Valuev – 7ft 2ins greaves, and a bronze javelin Goliath of Gath. And in the red and in his mighty power. Put on he accepted the challenge from mine!’ Christ. was slung on his back. His spear corner, weighing in at 10 stone, the full armour of God so that a man twice his size and ran • Who was Boaz’s mother? Weight: shaft was like a weaver’s rod, standing short of 6 feet, with you can take your stand against towards him. David was David Haye – 15st 8lbs and its iron point weighed six some limited experience against the devil’s schemes. For our confident he was going to win • What issue did Jesse’s grandson face with Moabite women? Nikolai Valuev – 22st 8lbs hundred shekels. His shield bear- wildlife, the contender, David of struggle is not against flesh and this fight. Where did he get that *This article is based on a sermon • Who gave David his wives? (2 Samuel 12) er went ahead of him. Goliath the Israelites.’ blood, but against the rulers, invincible confidence from? preached recently in Grantham Church • What was Ezra’s reaction upon hearing of Israelite by Kevin Cox, who gives credit to Reach (finger tip to finger tip): stood and shouted to the ranks against the authorities, against The answer is simple. He got Lessons to Help You Fight Giants (by intermarriage with pagans? David Haye – 81ins of Israel, “Why do you come out God’s perspective the powers of this dark world it from the same Source that Michael Cassara) and the film ‘Miracle • What were the political advantages to marrying foreigners? Nikolai Valuev – 88ins and line up for battle? Am I not a From a human perspective, this and against the spiritual forces of we can get it from today: a 2004’ for many of his ideas. (1 Kings 3) 2 6

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5 . . . thanks 1. Loch Katrine, The Trossachs, Scotland. Yvonne Bauwens, Fuji E550 Well, it took a little while to get going, 2. Grey Squirrel. Dan Trueman, Canon PowerShot Pro1 but you came through in the end. A big 3. Fungi. David Anderson, Nikon D70 thank-you to all who have sent in their 4. Family of Canada Geese. Ketyana Camatchee, Nikon D3000 photos for Megapixels of creation; I 5. Tulips. Ryen Ham-Ying, Sony A580 appreciate all your efforts, but please 6. The Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park. Esti Pujic, Sony DSC-TX10 keep them coming – and, if anyone out 7. Butterfly in my garden. Felicity James, Fuji S602 there has been thinking about it, maybe 8. Durdle Door, Dorset. Andrew Daryl, Nikon D700 this crop of fine pictures will inspire you to get involved. The standard has been ‘Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very very good so far. DAVID BELL good. . . .’ Genesis 1:31 (NKJV) 10 11 Does your flame still few flickering flames! talking, door-knocking, befriend- about effective door-to-door some of the members shared have a flicker? Sabbath school started with ing, feeding and sharing our fruit. evangelism. their own stories before lunch news the singing of Clarissa Lewis We can’t keep what God has On Sunday the programme with Marie Steward. Pastor Mike Simpson and his and the teaching of Craig Gooden given us to ourselves any longer. continued at Darlington Church, God calls his people from all team visited Middlesbrough and (on how to give a Bible study), We have the food, so we must and members paired off to backgrounds to feed his children. NEC taskforce Darlington during the weekend of before Pastor Simpson gave a feed the hungry. There are people practise Craig Gooden’s Bible What are you prepared to offer? 14-15 May with the ABN film sermon titled: ‘A basket of behind doors, just waiting for you study techniques. Is your flame a flicker or a in action crew, and ignited more than a ➔ summer fruits’, based on to knock. After hearing Clarissa Lewis lighthouse? Amos 8:1-14. In the afternoon Craig Gooden talk on personal testimonies, JUDY, MIDDLESBROUGH CHURCH Pastor Ian Philpott and two young Members were reminded that continued his talk on how to taskforce workers, Joe Philpott Education day the fruit is ready and waiting – keep people interested in Bible and Aaron McKenzie, have been On Sabbath 2 April, Hyland we need to get outside and start study, while Clarissa Lewis talked tirelessly going from door to door House School took the pro- throughout Dalton-in-Furness all gramme at Holloway Church for year. the church’s education day. New president for North With the intention of consoli- to those with whom they are Natalie, Anna Burton, Jeharna Students took part in choruses, England Conference dating some of their work, the studying. Many turned up for the South and Simon Rose blessed poems and sermonettes. Their young men organised a charity event and were at ease mixing the appreciative audience, and theme, ‘Every Child Matters’, was by Jeff Nicholson, NEC Communication director concert. They designed and then with church members. The qua- after the collection the local hos- shown in every performance. Pastor Cyril Sweeney is the new president of distributed cards throughout the lity of the singing from Yvonne pice received a cheque for £354. Holloway Church was well- town, and gave special invitations Lee, Kerith Martin, Laura, Nomsa, KEITH HAMILTON the North England Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The attended by supporting families appointment became necessary after the election of former NEC and friends of the students, and president, Pastor Ian Sweeney, as BUC president. The project included a ‘Drop members were impressed and Pastor Cyril Sweeney has extensive leadership experience, having Left to right: Davina Sly, Jacqueline Kelly, Catherine Sly, Natasha Cox and Philip Anderson Carterknowle community health In Centre’, targeting the over-55s eager to learn more about the served previously as NEC Youth, Community Services, and Family within both the church and the project by Muriel Bussue school! The Hyland House praise Life director. Presently he is a pastor of the Nottingham district of local community and supported team opened the service with churches. Doing nothing is not an option In May 1999, the Carterknowle launched by Sister Bussue and by members from the rowdy choruses, and Mrs community health project was three other members. Carterknowle, Burngreave and Abbequaye (headteacher) and the This was the challenge presented a physiotherapist, put together an Manor churches. Education leader of Holloway to Grantham Church at the exercise sequence, and before Sadly, about eighteen months Church welcomed and prayed for Edinburgh Church’s witness January TGIF (Thank God It’s long the group was ‘losing lbs Friday) meeting. for £s’. Pam Davies decided to ago a serious illness struck Sister visitors. Both teachers and stu- A call for evangelism initiatives at the Scottish Mission’s triennial The theme of the programme prepare two delicious homemade Bussue. The weekly meetings dents took part, and sermonettes session last year convinced Patrick Dillon that there was an was Christian action, specifically soups with bread rolls for a ‘poor continued for a time, but were rendered by Tyreeka opportunity in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. Various raising funds for ADRA. man’s supper’. eventually they ceased. On 19 Williams, Samara Williams, Tia organisations displayed their wares on one of Edinburgh’s busiest Natasha Cox asked members For all of these events, invita- May 2011, Sister Bussue Maria Fuller, Jared Samuel- thoroughfares. ‘Why shouldn’t the Seventh-day Adventist Church to choose their favourite hymns tions were extended to the wider organised a twelfth-birthday Adams and Jordan Abbequaye. be there also?’ he reasoned. and choruses, the musicians community to attend – and a celebration meeting, specifically After a lunch provided by the Following prolonged prayers, a small team of members opened practised and a music night was number of visitors did so gladly! inviting all those who had attend- Holloway Education department, doors and overcame obstacles. The city council granted permission arranged. Elisabeth Carnell and Door-to-door collection and ed and helped during the previ- the afternoon programme inc- and the church board approved the budget, banners, books, DVDs friends decided to slim for ADRA personal giving were not neglect- ous twelve years. Meetings are luded solos, instrumentals and and thousands of tracts, to be distributed on Princes Street on and formed the Slimfit Club. For ed, but the fundraising activities now planned to resume, even if a presentation of the school. Sabbath 12 June. The initiative has continued once every two ten weeks the group met to generated a fun opportunity to they are less frequent. ANESHA WEST weeks ever since. encourage each other, weigh in witness using spiritual gifts. ‘Engaging the public has been a rich experience for our outreach and exercise. Kristina Hammond, ELISABETH CARNELL team’, says Patrick. ‘People who stop at our table for a chat are Children’s health expo Bournville’s youth retreat often surprised that these Christians who go to church on Saturday On 30 May the Fartown company was blessed by its first children’s The weekend of 6-8 May saw the Bournville youth in Worcester on a not only preach salvation through Jesus but offer a wide selection health expo, held at the community centre where the company retreat entitled: ‘Let’s Connect! Get Connected!’ Pastor Hush (NEC), of Bible information on health, diet, lifestyle, family issues, and the worships. Diane Sinclair (NEC), Symon Burgher, Leakey Mbaya, Dionne Brown benefits of Sabbath rest. They see a whole lifestyle package for As with the adult health expo, held last year, God showed and Stephen Stewart presented topics based on music, lifestyle and everyone in a Church that has no equal in this field.’ members that door-to-door witnessing truly works! Prior to both using our spiritual gifts, to name but a few. The youth enjoyed work- The Adventist table display is becoming a familiar sight in the events, Fartown members went out talking to the community with a shops hosted by Pastor Brooks, elders and other church members. city centre. Relations are being established with other Christian health-related questionnaire which included questions about God. Thanks to Cathy Boldeau who wrote the theme song, encouraging groups, and members can answer many questions about our This provided valuable contacts for the expo, Bible studies and youth to stay connected to Christ. Everyone enjoyed the food! The beliefs. ‘A new confidence is showing in our church, with every future events. Personal invitations and leaflets were later delivered. event was organised by the AY leader, Horace Radcliff, and his team. arm growing, empowered through Christ by a sense of what is The feedback from the children’s health expo described it as The youth cannot wait for the next retreat! possible’, Patrick says. COMMUNICATION DEPT ‘fantastic’, and ‘time well spent’. MURETT MENDEZ JOHN MOWOE Left to right: Zenia Ferguson, John Ferguson and Elisabeth Carnell

Stanborough School is seeking to fill the following position for September 2011: Boarding School Preceptor (Housemaster of Stanborough Boarding School) The school is seeking to recruit a supportive, caring, friendly and experienced Preceptor to care for Stanborough School’s boarders aged 10-18 (KS3, KS4 and IB). This is a senior position, and the post-holder will be respon- sible for the smooth operation of the boarding school. Preference will be given to pastors or individuals who possess a background in social work, counselling or youth work. Stanborough School is committed to safer recruitment and the pro- tection of children. Please email [email protected] in order to obtain an applica- tion pack. The closing date for applications is Sunday 10 August 2011. Agnieszka Waclawik (Poland), William Mudahemuka (Rwanda) Patrick Dillon (Ireland) and Tel: +44(0)1923 673268. Shepherd Pugwiwa and Donovan Matambo (Zimbabwe) SHANNELLE HALL 12 13 Kilkenny church company explodes ‘Come Dine With Me’ Baptism of the Sens Ladislaw Billy and his wife Juieta now know why God led them from This was the name of the district Sabbath 19 March was a joyful the Czech Republic to Ireland – in 2007 Evelyn Wilson, the leader of revival series for the West occasion at the Carmarthen the company in Kilkenny, knocked on their door with literature and Bromwich, Breath of Life and church as Natalie and Aaron Sen DVDs. A few months later, Evelyn suggested Bible studies, and they Great Barr churches that committed their lives to Christ in committed themselves to Jesus in baptism on 30 April 2011! They are occurred from 7 to 14 May, with baptism. already giving Bible studies to their friends. Pastors Carlton and Patricia On Sabbath the baptistry’s Four members of the Sudanese community were also baptised – Douglas. Visitors were treated heating was a little too efficient, Marcellina Labwa began reading the Bible when she arrived in Ireland, with preaching on the biblical and the Sanctuary resembled a and, in Bible studies with Evelyn, Marcellina’s granddaughter would feasts and the marriage supper of Turkish bath; but by the end of translate – she also requested baptism, and in total four Sudanese the Lamb, followed by portions of Sabbath School things had were baptised with Ladislaw Billy and Juieta by Pastor Ben Pontanas at fruits provided on various nights. returned to normal. The climax of the revival was This was only the second the Ballinacrow church in County Wicklow. Left to right: Weiling Tang, Genevieve Haynes, Laura Prescott and Tarrick Haynes, flanked by Dr EVELYN WILSON Richard de Lisser and Pastor Lorance Johnson. Back row are Aberdeen and Inverness elders. the baptism of Tina Mtawali and baptism at the Carmarthen Louise Powell, who celebrated church; we wish them every with an agape feast! blessing in Christ. Baptism in Aberdeen Tina and Louise in centre with Pastor Carlton Douglas, Elder E. Windrass and M. Moyo. JUANITA CRAWFORD PETER MERTENS On Sabbath 23 April the Aberdeen congregation witnessed the baptism of Genevieve Haynes (who had once walked with God but fell away, and had reached the point of suicide prior to finding God again), Annual Appeal at Erdington Tarrick Haynes (Genevieve’s son), Weiling Tang (who came from a Erdington members collected non-Christian background in China), and Laura Prescott (who had been £4,952.44 for ADRA this year, of searching for a church which followed the Bible when she contacted which Don Parker collected an Adventist website which connected her with the group in £2,451.93. The young people, led Inverness). by the Pathfinders club, collected Pastor Lorance Johnson immersed each of the candidates. The £113.51. Members were especial- short sermon on Psalm 23 was given by the visiting pastor, Dr Richard ly pleased when local resident Ms de Lisser. Alison Singer gave birth to Ruby JANICE SAVIZON just a few hours after donating! Iris Thompson wishes to congratulate and thank all And wo(men) gathered . . . Women of Spirit members who took part in this ‘Women of Spirit, Not Easily Broken’ was the theme for the women’s year’s ADRA Annual Appeal. Mary McFarlane, Louise Clarke, a mission spotlight from two empowerment conference held on Sunday, 1 May at The Advent JOHN OSEI-BEMPONG Debbie St Cyr and Marashaline local women (Casena talked Centre, organised by Malika Bediako (SEC Women’s Ministries Matthews formed a ‘loose about becoming a newly baptised director). More than ninety women arrived for a day that included women’ panel for the first SEC Adventist and Lorraine talked devotional and praise sessions, a debate and discussion time with Is this your season? Area 7 women’s day of fellow- about starting to attend the Natalie and Aaron Sen committed their lives to Christ in baptism. artist Elder Eric Salisbury (from the USA), a lecture from Life in The Greenwich Women’s Ministry committee led a week of revival ship at High Town Methodist Adventist Church and enjoying Recovery counsellor and author, Gail Masondo, and a talk from Church in Luton on Sabbath, 30 Bible studies), an anointing serv- called ‘Seasons of a woman’s life’ with Women’s Ministry director Sharon Platt-McDonald, BUC Health Ministries director. SANDRA GOLDING April. More than 250 women and ice by Elders Gail Masondo, Mike Heather-Dawn Small from Sabbath 23 April. Heather Haworth (BUC), Induction and presentation men came together for a lesson Johnson and Eric Salisbury, and Malika Bediako (SEC) and Lesego Motlogelwa (Greenwich) were also present. synopsis from visiting speaker a message from Elder Gail On Sabbath 30 April at the Great On the Thirteenth Sabbath, Elder Eric Salisbury from Seattle, Masondo, who spoke from Luke Shirley Grant, Kimmiesha Brown and other praise team members sang praises, and the health talks and free health checks were led by Brickkiln church, the Pathfinders, 25 June, children at the Great 8:1-3 about Mary Magdalene. Eager Beavers and Adventurers Brickkiln Street church presented The praise team, the Luton Eunice Whyte. The churches that hosted the evenings included Croydon, carried out their induction the adult Sabbath School mission Women’s Choir and others sang ceremony under the leadership report. Each child displayed let- from the heart, and in the after- Lewisham, Brixton, Welling and Plumstead. The Greenwich Women’s Ministry committee linked up with the Abu Dhabi Women’s Ministry of Karen Campbell and ters of the alphabet to represent noon programme Sue O’Driscoll, Helderberg Jackson. various areas in Russia that are a specialised midwife from the department and the Women’s Ministry director (Middle East Union), to aid women that live in Abu Dhabi. The children vowed to let active with missionary work. Luton and Dunstable Hospital, their spiritual light shine as a A Power Point presentation TIMON FERMIN gave a talk about AIDS and HIV. testimony to others. The newly also showed supportive Photos from the day can be appointed pathfinders joined the information, just in case! All viewed at: http://www.adventist rest in reciting their pledges to the children did very well. pictures.org.uk/gallery/2001/ God’s service. DELVA CAMPBELL WomenDOF/index.php. SANDRA GOLDING

Heather-Dawn Small, Malika Bediako, Lesego Motlogelwa, Cheryl Mamaril and Alison Richardson. 14 15 Unfortunately, Pearl contracted a serious Nellie was trained in domestic service and lung disease which prevented her from was renowned for her expert ironing. She Prayer and faith leaving home, where she died on 21 April. A never married, but had family contacts obituary well-attended memorial service was held in through her sister’s family. Nellie worked hard Huntsville Central Seventh-day Adventist throughout her life but always appeared con- The Thames Valley Youth social was postponed, and the Church, officiated by Pastor Chris Barr. tent. She was kind to others and maintained a Federation’s third annual prayer leaders just took a back seat as Pearl Angela had graduated from University with a Pearl was a kind, loving Christian wife and simple lifestyle. During the outreach ministry and faith conference took place the youth kept on coming down Barham (1943- Theology degree. They soon moved to mother who made many friends at work and of Pastor Leclair Litchfield and his wife Shelly during February at Alton Castle, to testify of the goodness of God, 2011) d. 21 April. America, where she remained for most of her in the Church. She will be greatly missed by in the seventies, Nellie made acquaintance Pearl was born on life, pursuing her nursing career. She started her husband Nigel, her daughters Adrienne with the Exeter Seventh-day Adventist church. in Staffordshire. The guest and how God has changed their 18 January 1943, in Michigan while her husband attended and Denise, her sister Christine, her five They asked Sister Irene Stockley to befriend speaker was Dr Eric Walsh, lives. More than 120 youth into the Adventist Andrews University, then continued nursing grandchildren and many other family her and, as a result, Nellie spent many happy from Loma Linda (USA). It was attended, and twenty of them home of Frank and in Canada when he taught at Kingsway members and friends. hours at Irene’s home. She often helped out attended by youth from across responded to Dr Walsh’s appeal; Elsie Smith, near College, and finally in Huntsville, Alabama, NIGEL BARHAM with the ironing when Irene was busy caring Wimbledon. She where he has been a history professor at for her sick husband. For a number of years, Area 5, as well as from the local seventeen are currently preparing attended the small Oakwood University for the past forty-three Minnetta Nellie faithfully attended church and was communities. for baptism in their local church school there, years. Gwendoline eventually baptised by Pastor Ron Davey on 7 Dr Walsh spoke about ‘How to churches. before transferring to Stanborough Park On 3 February 1981, her elder sister Ann Owen (née January 1989, to the delight of the members. Know God’s Will’. Workshops The youth thanked Pastor School in Watford when her father accepted and husband Don Lale were murdered in Barnes) (1912- The church family remembers Nellie as a employment at the Granose Food Factory. Zimbabwe while serving as missionaries. 2011) d. 25 April. cheerful lady who loved nature, and cats in included ‘Finance’, ‘Health’ and Patrick Johnson, Pastor Sam She then went to Newbold College to Their two teenage boys, Timothy and Andrew, Minnetta passed particular, as visitors to her flat would ‘Relationships’. Cricket, rounders, Ngui, Helen Opoku-Mensah train as a Bible instructor, canvassing in the went to live in Huntsville with Pearl and away on 25 April discover when they saw the numerous hiking and football were all on the and all the staff for making the summer months and working at the Nigel, and continued their Christian education following a short pictures of cats adorning the walls! Nellie cards, and staff were able to help conference possible. Most of all Stanborough Press, as well as the at Southern University. illness, aged 99 enjoyed fellowship lunches and was insistent Stanborough Hydro, where she developed Pearl was a very active church member years. Born into an on doing the washing up. That was her job! students revise. they thank God! her lifelong passion for helping others. during her lifetime, singing in the choir, Adventist family – When her age and health caused her to move On the last night, the planned JULIAN THOMPSON Consequently, she enrolled at Edgware participating at prayer meetings and helping her mother being a founder member of the into a residential home, her presence at General Hospital as a nursing student and out in the children’s Sabbath School, as well Southampton church – Minnetta remained church was very much missed. However, she completed her training in 1965. as serving as the Women’s Ministry leader and firm in her love for Jesus all her life. She became a favourite at the home, where she On 9 July of that same year, Pearl was head deaconess. She also went on two mis- served God and the Church, working as a was well cared for. married in the Stanborough Park church, by sion trips, to Nicaragua and Costa Rica, where nurse and a radiographer in the Sanatorium Her funeral service, conducted by Pastor Leicester Central youth day Pastor Charles Watson, to Nigel Barham, who she used her nursing and witnessing skills. at Stanborough Park, and for many years in Kenneth Clothier, was held at the Exeter the Adventist Hospital at Denver, Colorado. church on 27 May. Nellie’s niece, Mary, and On 21 May Leicester Central Church hosted a youth day themed on: She retired to New Zealand in 1973 when she Mary’s son, Mark, had travelled from ‘God’s Imminent Return . . . Are YOU Ready?’ The day was aimed at Pastor Peter Stearman married Idris Owen, but later moved back to Portsmouth to mourn the loss of their aunt. helping young people in the church to reflect on reaching the standard Britain to be near family; and most recently In the eulogy, Stella Jeffery included their that Jesus sets for young Christian followers. Congratulations to Pastor Peter Stearman, attended Carmarthen Church in Wales. A gen- memories of ‘Aunt Nellie’, as well as those of who turned 90 on 11 May. He and his tle, loving person, Minnetta will be missed by Mary’s twin brother, David, who was unable The speaker was Baraka Butoke, a young man from Reading, family and friends; but we know her faith and to attend the service. Stella concluded with studying Theology at Newbold College. He delivered a sermon entitled wife, Vera, celebrated their honeymoon trust in God was strong, and we look forward the thought that, when Jesus returns, Nellie ‘1 or 99’, encouraging Adventists to take on the Great Commission and in 1944 with a sea voyage escorted by to seeing her on the Resurrection morning. will have the best fellowship lunch ever in be more proactive, just as Jesus was, mingling within our communi- warships – in the middle of World War JON MEREDITH God’s banqueting house. Two! Peter has served as a missionary in Pastor Clothier read verses from 1 ties, just as Jesus ate and drank with the publican: to reach them Nellie Wells (1914-2011) d. 29 April. Corinthians 15, and in his address emphasised where they are, instead of sitting in church preaching to ourselves. West Africa, the SEC, Stanborough Park Nellie Wells, the most senior member of the the certainty of the Resurrection for those Visitors from , Chelmsford, Southampton, Oxford and Church, Lewisham and Bromley in Exeter church, was born in 1914 along with who fall asleep in Jesus, and stressed the her twin sister. They were abandoned at birth, Birmingham enjoyed the lunch and socialised with both the churched England, the Welsh Mission, and saving power of Jesus through his death and Enniskillen in Northern Ireland. and were brought up in a children’s home in resurrection. and the non-churched. London until the age of 14. STELLA JEFFERY The afternoon concert saw music from Simplicity, Peter Tabornal, PAUL BELLAMY Adewale, The Wellingborough Adventist Youth Choir and God’s Project. The AYS programme asked how to seek the Lord and find him. Music day Gospel workers’ commented upon were Baptism, Leicester Central hopes to have similar events again very soon. Death, Christ’s Second Coming Heartfelt praise sounded through- THENJIWE BANDA training and the Sabbath; reviving, edify- out Holloway Church on Sabbath The Gospel workers’ training ing and equipping the church for 14 May, as Sister Markham weekend was conducted by ministry. ROSEMARY BLENMAN reminded members and visitors Pastor Colin Woodford at Paul Rayne Dr Clement A. Murray of the importance of praise. The Burngreave Church, Sheffield, Teens’ day at Holloway praise team, band and mass Deacon ordained On 21 May the youth of the Holloway church (all under 18) offered the from 15 to 17 April. Pastor choir filled the church with Woodford is currently the pastor On 14 May, at the Great Brickkiln Sabbath services under the theme of ‘Transformation’. singing, as did Creesha Street church, Claude Osbourne Teens’ Praise and Rumbi and Co Mime expressed their love through of Middlesborough, Darlington Walkinshaw, Audrey Richards, and Durham, and also the Area 1 was ordained as a deacon by creativity, and the children’s story became a skit about Dr J. (Jesus) Anthea Davis and Ian Johnson. Pastor Steve Palmer. He has been and Dr S. (the devil). co-ordinator. Anthea, in a sermon called ‘Glory The training was meant to an asset to the church through Nile Phillip, Danelle Cuffie, Ronnel Johnson and Shamaine King to Your Name’, explained the his zeal and committed service offered the sermonettes. teach church members the origin and power of music. for Christ. D. M. CAMPBELL ANESHA WEST technique of giving Bible studies Born Again Promotions held in homes and in public places. their first concert in the evening. Some of the prominent topics ANESHA WEST Plan to attend – start saving for all those good books and that great music. Guest speaker for the day will be Dr Clement A. Murr ay, 3ABN production manager and the producer of 3ABN Today. He is the author of three books and has recorded his own music CD, In His Time, under the Chapel Re cord label. There will also be a seminar on Christian family life by UK-raised Paul Rayne, who co-hosts the new 3ABN pro- gramme, Happy the Home. He and his wife, Carolyn, are the authors of The Connected Family. Don’t miss this great Adventist family event at The Stanborough Pr ess Ltd, Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. 16 Prayer Explosion! LETS Prayer Harvest Ministries back page Retreat – gathering of prayer groups 18-21 August 2011 Conference Aston, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET Together with Pastor S. Telemaque (Inter-America Division) Inspirational giving and Pastor D. Blake (NY, USA) Pastor Andrew Rashford-Hewitt’s two boys gave him For a registration form, 17 pence to support the recent ADRA-UK cycle ride tel: 01902 751715, from London to on 20 July. or email: [email protected]. For further enquiries, Recalling the widow’s two mites, MESSENGER staff tel: 07535618841, New book of the week were reminded that no amount is too small to make a difference for or email: [email protected]. Christ! See where your donations are used at: www.adrauk.org. Why we need Rest For revival, the answer is prayer! PASTOR RASHFORD-HEWITT AND MESSENGER STAFF Getting Through Grief Both by Richard J. B. Willis

Micklefield Community launches second church-plant Sometimes we need a comforting shoulder to lean on in difficult moments On the Sabbath morning of 2 of grief – other times we just need to take April the seeds of a new church- a break. Whichever of these you need, you plant were sown in Chesham, a can find relief in these two books by our town in the heart of the Chess former BUC Health director. Valley which is also the final, northernmost stop on the Contact ABC Sales on Metropolitan Line of the London 01476 539900 Underground. to purchase your copy at £1.99 each plus p&p. The mission story for the day told of the current outreach in ABC BOOK SALES Chesham and the history of Christianity in the town from the August time of the Reformation to the 9-13 Ghana camp meeting, Telford first Adventist presence there. ABC Shops The men’s group from Watford, BUC Micklefield sang a song entitled, 9am-1pm, 1.30-5pm Monday-Thursday ‘Yes I Know’, which told of the 9am-12pm Friday sacrifice Jesus made for each Birmingham Aston-Newton 11am-4pm, Wednesday sinner and the need for us all to 4pm-8pm, Thursday tell others of this. Pastor Felix 9am-1pm, Friday McPherson, who had returned to 11am-3pm, Sunday the High Wycombe district after a Advent Centre Mondays & Wednesdays, 6.30pm-8.30pm thirty-year absence, used Isaiah Sundays, 11am-3pm 6 for his message. He spoke of the need to see others saved in God’s Kingdom: to make this a Messenger reality we need to leave our Volume 116 • 17 – 5 August 2011 comfort zones and witness in Editor: J. G. Hibbert Contributing Editor: Dr D. N. Marshall new places. Proof Reader: Andrew Puckering Design: David Bell RAJIV GILL COPY FOR No. 19 – 11 August 2011

Copy should be sent to the Editor, M ESSENGER, The August Bank Holiday Stanborough Press Limited, Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. Extravaganza Banquet Fax No: (01476) 577144. Email: [email protected] Sunday 28 August, 5pm-10pm Send high resolution pictures to: [email protected] Balham Seventh-day Adventist Church, ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 16a Boulevard, Balham High Road, Mon-Thurs only, 8am - 5.30pm. SW17 7BW www.stanboroughpress.com The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand Live entertainment and special articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. features; prizes and surprises! Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Dress code: black and silver. Printed in the UK. Three-course meal (vegetarian option Visit the BUC website at: www.adventist.org.uk available) with non-alcoholic drinks. ISSN 0309-3654 Single ticket: £25 Couples’ ticket: £45 Sunset Sunset times are reproduced with permission from Under-16s: £15 data supplied by HM Nautical Almanac Office. All proceeds will go to the Rogers Lond Card Nott Edin Belf AUG 5 8.43 8.55 8.52 9.13 9.17 School to aid children in need in India. 12 8.30 8.42 8.38 8.57 9.03 Telephone: 07960742448, 19 8.16 8.28 8.24 8.41 8.47 07956814328 or 07904736555 26 8.01 8.13 8.08 8.21 8.31 for details. MESSENGER SUBSCRIPTIONS Cost to members supplied in bulk to churches £6. Buses: 155, 249, 315, 355 Single copy subscription by post £13. Nearest station: Balham Overseas airmail £27.50