December 15, 2007 In this issue Web network project grows
SPD thanks retiring leaders
Natural Christianity Attendees of the South Pacifi c Division’s executive committee in meetings in Wahroonga, New South Wales. SPD to help fund urban churches WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES
s a major strategic initiative, the South presented to the committee. Pacifi c Division (SPD) will contrib- “We have had large membership growth ute more than $A2 million annually in urban areas of the Pacifi c but in many Atoward building new churches in areas we now have inadequate seating ca- major urban areas across the division. The pacity to accommodate our new members,” initiatives, which will benefi t urban churches explained Rod Brady, chief fi nancial offi cer right across the region, were endorsed at the for the SPD. “This initiative will greatly as- Health division’s year end meetings. sist in the nurture of our members in these The fi rst focuses on addressing the lack centres.” of seating capacity in urban churches in the Pastor Thomas Davai, president of the Pacifi c islands. SPD leadership engaged Papua New Guinea Union Mission, was association building consultant John Morris to develop quick to endorse the proposal. “This is some- a plan for simple, low-cost multipurpose thing we need to see happen,” he commented. church buildings with a seating capacity of “We’ve held large evangelistic campaigns revives between 1000 and 2000. These plans were (Continued on page 5) ISSN 0819-5633
4488 Cover.inddCover.indd 1 44/12/07/12/07 8:45:208:45:20 AMAM editorial
When you push away all the tinsel, baubles and junk, what is there? Shopping or giving?
’was the night before Christmas What’s the point? the fun had or dramas shared? Spending . . . and the shops have already had When you push away all the tinsel, bau- time with those we love is more important Christmas stuff in them for at least bles and junk, what is there? than receiving another pair of novelty socks, T three months. If you’ve not managed Some would say it’s just a holiday adopt- featuring reindeer with light-up noses. to develop Christmas rage with the inces- ed by the early church to appeal to the local We could use Christmas as a time to sant carols—which somehow always seem pagan populace. But ultimately, it’s still a truly celebrate and give thanks for the good to include a Mariah Carey medley—come celebration of the birth of Christ. Over things in our lives, take time to let people close to personal injury with a Christmas the centuries, Christmas celebrations have know how appreciated they are and do tree or gotten crushed between the heav- taken many forms—but the focus has gen- something positive for the world. Perhaps ily laden trollies of bargain-crazy shoppers, erally remained on the birth of Jesus and New Year’s resolutions could extend to car- consider yourself lucky. its importance to the world. rying on the “spirit of Christmas,” in much Add to that the Christmas movies of re- This isn’t the fi rst, and probably won’t be the same way as the character of Scrooge cent years, which seem to follow the same the last, piece written about the meaning in Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol basic premise—a couple of loudmouth, of Christmas being obscured by consumer- resolves, “I will honour Christmas in my dysfunctional jerks fi ghting over toys for ism—for a start, Harriet Beecher Stowe’s heart, and try to keep it all the year.” the kids or how they’ll outdo each other in book, published in 1850, The First Christ- For him, it wasn’t about one solitary day the decorating stakes, sprinkled with the mas in New England, features a character of celebrations but something that extended fairy dust of aggressive consumerism and who complains about Christmas’ meaning beyond, into sharing his good fortune with “me-fi rst” attitudes. Where did the “magic” being lost in a shopping spree. others, caring for the poor and ensuring of Christmas go, anyway? But instead of focusing on getting, we he wasn’t like his former business partner, It’s little wonder few people have visions could look at what we contribute over Marley, who regretted allowing himself to of sugarplum fairies dancing in their heads, Christmas and other times of the year—as “walk through crowds of fellow beings with when we’ve got catalogues enough to re- well as what we give in terms of gifts—to my eyes turned down, and never raise them construct a life-size model of the Tower of those around us. If we use it as a time to to that blessed Star which led the Wise Men Babel to look at. And the business council remember family, goodwill to all people, to a poor abode.” has harkened to the recent rate rises to be- compassion and communal celebration, God gave His only Son as the greatest moan the fact they think it’ll decrease the rather than stuffi ng ourselves silly with fes- gift to the world. It doesn’t matter whether all-important Christmas spending. tive food or watching the children unwrap or not this happened on exactly December The commercialisation of Christmas their presents (tantrum feature included, 25 or how many wise men arrived, bear- seems to be mostly complete, as we’re although batteries may not be), perhaps ing gifts. What matters is He loved us so continually told to buy, buy, buy. All this there would be less disillusionment and much that He gave the ultimate gift (see useless stuff that makes retailers rejoice jadedness about the whole affair. John 3:16). He wants to be able to spend all and be exceeding glad. Plus, any excuse Besides, do you even remember what of eternity with us—part of His family— for a sale—no sooner are they over than you got for Christmas last year or the year not just Christmas. the hot cross buns for Easter are lurking before? Or do you remember the time you on the shelves. spent with family, friends and loved ones, Adele Nash
Offi cial Paper of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacifi c 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.org.au Copyeditor Talitha Simmons Email Letters: [email protected] Editorial secretary Kristel Rae Email Newsfront: [email protected] Vol 112 No 48 Layout Nathan Chee Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Cover: Nathan Brown Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacifi c Division mailed within Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. www.record.net.au Other prices on application. Printed weekly.
2 December 15, 2007
4488 Editorial.inddEditorial.indd Sec1:2Sec1:2 44/12/07/12/07 8:45:408:45:40 AMAM news South Pacifi c web network project grows WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES In May 2008, version 3.0 of the netAdventist software will be re- he netAdventist software, used to cre- leased, which includes more function- ate and manage more than 900 Ad- ality and fl exibility. All sites on version ventist websites on the South Pacifi c 2 will be automatically converted to Tweb network, has been acquired by version 3.0 at no cost. the General Conference (GC) “We are committed to using the The GC made the decision to take full re- web as an effective ministry in our sponsibility for the netAdventist software at division and will continue to support the annual council in mid-October. local webmasters to further develop The transition of ownership will begin at their sites,” says Ms Isaacs. the start of 2008 and the church is expected There are close to 2000 registered to have acquired full ownership by 2009. members on the South Pacifi c web Glen Daniels (left) discussing the Bible with the “Our division was the fi rst to imple- network since its implementation. pastor of Riverlands church in New Zealand, Ben Rea, after a Prophecy Code seminar. ment netAdventist, in May 2007, as the More than 1600 news items and 1700 web management system for our churches church events have been uploaded following two Sabbaths and the father, Glen and it’s great to see the GC get behind this and shared. Daniels, has joined a prophecy seminar. innovative software,” says Jeanelle Isaacs, The most accessed page on church web- We’re thrilled! Having a website is an easy electronic media offi cer of the Adventist sites is the Bible-study lesson, with more way to tell others about God,” says Stewart Media Network. than 5000 visits. The lesson podcast has been Presnall of the Riverlands church. The annual council also voted to establish downloaded more than 3000 times and the Other local webmasters have expressed joy an Offi ce of Global Software and Technol- church’s online directory has over 2000 vis- and satisfaction with the websites, believing ogy, to be based at the church’s headquarters its. These features are just some of the ways they are bringing the church up to date. in Washington DC. This new offi ce will be the church is reaching out to the 1.24 billion “I am so excited about the website. May streamlining and coordinating new software internet users around the world. God bless the sites mightily for the building and technology initiatives. Riverlands church in Christchurch, New of His kingdom,” says Vicki Knight, web- “We have also made the decision to use Zealand, has seen the benefi ts of taking part master of Scottsdale church in Tasmania. part of the annual media offering to fund in this online community. —Kristina Malarek the netAdventist websites for another year. “Three weeks ago, a family wanted to For more information or to join the This is so any church entity on the netAd- fi nd a Sabbath-keeping church to attend. South Pacifi c web network visit
this was my fi rst time and I wasn’t in the community. KickStart holds sure what to expect.” According monthly motorbike events for a to NZBLOOD, a single donation group of children aged between (about 470 mls) can save three 8 and 12. The children are select- lives. Four out of every fi ve New ed through the Homes of Hope Zealanders will need blood dur- organisation, which provides fos- ◆ A corporate blood dona- ing their lifetime—but only one ter care for abused and neglected taking turns sharing the bikes tion was organised by Pon- in 20 currently donates blood. children. The team endeavours to and other gear. Each child was sonby youth on November 13, Ponsonby young people could develop relationships with the awarded a certifi cate in a special in response to an appeal by literally be saving the lives of 75 children, openly displaying God’s ceremony before departing. The NZBLOOD. Twenty-fi ve young dying patients. “It’s nice to know love and planting seeds for Jesus. team is about to launch a sec- people donated their blood to your blood can save someone The team is made up of about 16 ond phase to the project which save lives, many of them first else,” says Clare.—Jeff rey Pau young people, aged between involves spending time with the time donors. “ I was a bit nervous 15 and 33. On October 7, Kick- children at their safe houses, play- at fi rst,” says Clare Strickland, a ◆ KickStart is a program devel- Start launched its fi rst event at ing sports and having fun on the fi nancial assistant/teacher aid at oped by the Tauranga youth, Tui Ridge Park, Rotorua. Eight third weekend of each month. Balmoral SDA school, “because NZ, to benefi t “at-risk” children children attended the event, —Doris Sanderson
BELIEVE IN CHRIST > LIVE THE LIFE WWW.EDGEONWEB.ORG
December 15, 2007 3
4488 News.inddNews.indd 3 44/12/07/12/07 8:47:088:47:08 AMAM SPD executive committee reports CFO shares good news WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES in real terms, while falling since 1950, has been rising since 2000. hen we look across the opera- “But when we look across the Pacifi c, tions of the church, there is a the needs always outstrip the resources lot of good news, fi nancially available and we must constantly fi nd Wspeaking,” commented Rod ways to make more resources available Brady, chief fi nancial offi cer for the South to meet these needs. Pacifi c Division (SPD), in his report to the “It is the faithfulness of our conference SPD executive committee. membership and the sharing of tithe that Rod Brady, chief fi nancial offi cer for the SPD, Mr Brady was pleased to report an 8.73 enables so many things to be supported and Laurie Evans, outgoing SPD president. per cent increase in tithe across the SPD beyond an individual conference’s geo- noted the important contributions made by last year. “This has given us resources be- graphical borders,” he commented. “As a the church’s institutions, especially Sani- yond our cost pressures,” he said. “Tithe church, we accept the global responsibility tarium. “While we always face challenges is growing consistently on a per member of taking the gospel to all the world.” and problems that the devil puts before basis in Australia and New Zealand but In 2006, the portion of tithe received by us, we can move forward, confi dent that across the Pacifi c islands, the growth on a the SPD amounted to $A8,367,910, from we have God’s blessing,” he concluded. per member basis is quite fl at.” which the SPD fund tithe-appropriate ex- “The challenge for us, as stewards, is to The total tithe for the SPD in 2006 was penditure totalling $A21,366,900, mean- use the resources effectively to fi nish the $A78,496,324, which is used to further the ing the SPD drew on other sources of assignment we have been given in the mission of the church at all levels of the income to fund the balance. The costs of South Pacifi c.” church, from employing church pastors operating the SPD offi ce in Wahroonga The division’s use of tithe for the past and funding local evangelistic efforts to is not funded from tithe but other sources year was spent on: Division Publishing smaller percentages that fund operations of of income. Department (PUB.10.05), $A711,900; conferences, mission, unions, the SPD and Mr Brady also had positive news on of- RECORD (FIN.50.30), $A652,260; Advent- the General Conference. To August this ferings given in 2006. “Last year, our of- ist Media Centre, $A2,117,514; Avondale year, tithe has increased another 7.1 per ferings increased 12.55 per cent,” he said. College, $A1,573,844; Union Conference cent compared with the previous year. “Our Sabbath school offerings alone have Equalisation Fund (FIN.30.35), $A220,712; Mr Brady shared with the committee a increased by 8.8 per cent, which is pleasing Expatriate Staff, $A8,446,434; Appropria- comparison of conference tithe adjusted as this has been static for many years.” tions to the Mission Field, $A6,823,253; for infl ation since 1950. “In real terms in Refl ecting on the overall fi nancial posi- and General Conference one per cent of 2006, tithe is higher than it has ever been,” tion of the SPD, Mr Brady thanked mem- tithe, $A820,983. The total amount was he explained. “And our tithe per member bers for their continued faithfulness and $A21,366,900.—Nathan Brown
Scale. “Our stand was the busi- was very pleased about winning community signed licence agree- est stand in the ‘children’s cor- the books, valued at over $A200. ments with Avondale College. ner’ at the show.” Supported by —Brendan Scale Property manager and former Area Manager, Russell Alsop, dairy farmer Bob Doyle is grazing Mr Scale used the stand to ◆ When Kempsey Adventist a small number of heifers there showcase the popular children’s School, NSW, got new teacher and Kelverne Johnson, formerly ◆ Over 1500 children received character building books Great Royce McMurtry six years ago, of Sanitarium Development and balloon animals or had their Stories for Kids. The face paint- they had only one teacher and 12 Innovation, is growing vegetables faces painted while their par- ing and balloon animals were students. It now has 200 students. and making hay. He plans to sell ents entered the giveaway for provided by a StormCo team Almost all the growth is from non- the vegetables from a shop on the books at the Home Health Edu- from Ringwood church. People Adventist families. This year, 70 former dairy site.—Connections cation Service (HHES) stand who entered the giveaway for students asked for Bible studies. at the Horsham Show, held the 5 volume Great Stories for —Evangelism News ◆ The Carmel College Centenary recently in Western Victoria. “We Kids set came from as far as Mel- brought together many people were so happy with the success bourne, yet the winner was a ◆ Farming is returning to the who had not seen each other for a of our stand at the show,” said young boy from Goroke, a near- Avondale Estate, Cooranbong, long time. For one particular fam- local HHES distributor, Brendan by town. The boy’s dad said he NSW, after two members of the ily, it was a good opportunity for
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4 December 15, 2007
4488 News.inddNews.indd 4 44/12/07/12/07 8:47:088:47:08 AMAM SPD executive committee reports SPD to help fund Secretary reports growth— urban churches and plans for more (Continued from page 1)
WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES from their respective areas of ministry as but then we leave the people standing outside. they contribute to the strategic focus of the This project will be a great help to us.” hile the Adventist church in the SPD. “Each of our departmental leaders “Church leaders in the Pacifi c have got be- South Pacifi c Division (SPD) have given just a snapshot or two of their hind this and the SPD has allocated initial fund- continues to grow steadily— part of this strategic plan but in the over- ing of almost $A1.2 million, with two projects W reaching a membership of all plan, there are hundreds of strategic to begin in the near future,” added Mr Brady. 397,189 at the end of 2006—the focus of initiatives,” Pastor Oliver told committee The Trans-Pacifi c Union Mission has selected the general secretary’s report to the SPD members. “I think a change has come in a site in Honiara that will be the fi rst church in executive committee was on planning for our organisation, where we are working that union to benefi t from this initiative. further and greater growth. strategically and with the power of the The ongoing funding of this initiative was Pastor Barry Oliver, SPD general secre- Holy Spirit to achieve the mission of the made available as a result of the sale of the tary, presented the division’s strategic plan church across the South Pacifi c.” church’s “Woodburn” fl ats at Manly, which to the executive committee. “We have been Earlier, Les Relihan, SPD archivist and was settled on November 13. The proceeds working on our strategic plan here at the statistician, had presented the statistical of the sale will be used to pay out another division for the past two years,” he said. report on church membership in the SPD. church loan and the savings on loan repay- “This is an exceedingly complicated process Some 17,950 people joined the church in ments will be directed toward the construction but we have endeavoured to pull together 2006 but this fi gure was offset by member- of these new multipurpose centre churches. the strategies from all our entities into one ship losses totalling 11,323, giving a net The amount available is expected to be ap- document. This is the overarching docu- growth rate for the year of 1.7 per cent. This proximately $A675,000 per year for the next ment for all our activities and planning.” compares with the worldwide Adventist eight years and will provide the major source Built from the SPD’s vision “to know, church’s growth rate of 4.62 per cent. of funding for one multipurpose centre per experience and share our hope in Jesus “Our present membership total means year. Christ,” the SPD strategic plan “not only that there is now one baptised Seventh-day A similar fund, providing about $A1.4 mil- identifi es a clear direction for the church Adventist for every 84 people across the lion per year, has also been established to assist but also intentionally brings together de- South Pacifi c,” reported Mr Relihan. building churches in the major urban areas of partments and entities to share this com- According to Mr Relihan, the longer Australia and New Zealand. The initiative also mon focus.” term trend in the SPD equates to an annual includes a plan to purchase land that may be of Pastor Oliver introduced eight SPD de- growth rate of 3 per cent over the past 10 future strategic use to the church in establishing partmental leaders, who shared highlights years.—Nathan Brown urban churches.—Nathan Brown
◆ The Victorian Conference has offi ces of parliament. On the day of in class. The study, CognitiveGe- doubled its annual number of bap- approval he had orders of K1465, nesis, is funded by private dona- tisms. At this time last year, the con- and is expecting further orders. tions and seeks to answer two ference had baptised 125 people. —ANZLE Pacifi c questions: what is the achieve- They’ve baptised 247 so far this ment level in Adventist schools year.—Evangelism News ◆ Academic achievement lev- compared to national norms? els for students in Seventh-day And what student, parent, teacher a reunion. The Strahan siblings ◆ Literature evangelist Menfred Adventist schools in North Amer- or school factors are associated each made a special eff ort to come. Megao decided to try selling his ica are above national norms, with achievement? “This is the This is the fi rst time all seven have books at Parliament House, in according to data from the fi rst most important academic survey been in one place at one time Papua New Guinea. After selling a year of a three-year study. Pre- ever undertaken in the Advent- since 1950. Most were students book to the security guard on duty, liminary results from the study ist Church,” said Larry Blackmer, at Carmel. From left to right Mr Megao organised a meeting show Adventist elementary and vice-president of education for (above), William, Douglas, Esther, with the Clerk of Parliament. After high school students rank in the the North American Division, Malcolm, Stan, Tom and Dorothy. writing to the clerk, he was able to 60th to 65th percentile, and that which includes the United States, —Douglas Strahan organise a meeting and was given the ranking is similar despite loca- Canada and Bermuda.—Ansel permission to sell his books in the tion, school size or grade range Oliver/ANN
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December 15, 2007 5
4488 News.inddNews.indd 5 44/12/07/12/07 8:47:098:47:09 AMAM SPD executive committee reports SPD thanks retiring leaders WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES years, including 16 years as a Pacifi c. “We honour you for conference youth director. who you are and for what he annual meeting of the South Pastor Craig’s wife, you have been able to do in Pacifi c Division (SPD) executive Maaike, was also acknowl- the power of the Lord,” said committee paid tribute to two long- edged for her support of this Pastor Oliver. Tserving church leaders. Pastors Brian ministry and for her work In turn, Pastor Evans ac- Craig and Laurie Evans will retire at the in the SPD offi ce over the knowledged the leadership end of this year. past 13 years. and departmental team of Pastor Craig has served as the director “As we look back over 40 the SPD, with whom he of family ministries for the SPD over the years of ministry, there have has worked. “I’ve been in past 22 years. He established the depart- been wonderful experiences [church] administration ment, as well as the church’s Institute of and real challenges,” Pastor for about 40 years, which Family Relations, and is believed to be the Craig responded. “It has is a long time,” he refl ected. longest serving departmental director in been an exciting journey. Pastor Laurie Evans. “So retirement will be a the same continuing role in It has been a dramatic change. It’s been the history of the SPD. real privilege to be invited an enriching experience. I am indebted to Pastor Evans acknowl- into the personal world of the church for its wonderful work. I have edged that Pastor Craig’s people’s lives.” been blessed. contribution is well regard- Pastor Evans retires after “It has been wonderful to see how our ed, both in the South Pa- 10 years as president of the church has grown and matured in the cifi c and in the Adventist SPD, as part of 46 years of Pacifi c. I leave with a great deal of joy, church worldwide. “He also church employment, work- knowing the church will go on to greater has great credibility outside ing in Australia, Fiji and heights.” church circles,” added Pas- Papua New Guinea. SPD As previously reported (“New leaders tor Evans. general secretary Pastor nominated for SPD,” News, December 1), Pastor Evans presented Barry Oliver presented Pas- the SPD executive committee had elected Pastor Craig with a citation tor Evans with a citation in Pastor Oliver as the new SPD president. in recognition of his “out- recognition of outstanding The committee also appointed Pastor standing, enduring service service and leadership. He Trafford Fisher to replace Pastor Craig as Pastor Brian Craig. to the church in the South noted Pastor Evans’s love director of family ministries for the SPD. Pacifi c Division,” which has spanned 40 for God, the church and the people of the —Nathan Brown
◆ A Brooklyn, New York, pas- tising law. The couple had estimated 14 per cent of Ameri- values and how to respond to tor has used his church as a been married for 31 years. The cans professing to have no reli- the Christian majority in the “personal piggy bank,” his couple founded Grace Chris- gion, according to the Institute United States.—Nathan Black/ estranged wife says, arguing tian Church together, with for Humanist Studies, some are Christian Post that it should be considered $US50,000 of their money. Her choosing to send their children a marital asset in their divorce lawyer, Robert Pollack, told to classes that teach ethics ◆ Some Christian bookstores proceedings. New York State The Associated Press, “That without religious belief. Camp are refusing to sell copies of a Supreme Court Judge Arthur church is no different than any Quest, also dubbed “The Secu- new Bible-study guide that chal- M Diamond agreed to hear other business he might have lar Summer Camp,” is offered lenges standard New Testament arguments on that claim and opened.”— Daniel Burke/Reli- for children of atheists, free- translations teaching gay sex ordered a financial appraisal of gious News Service thinkers, humanists and other is sin. Australia’s largest Chris- the church, in a decision pub- nonbelievers who hold to a tian retailer, Koorong, said it is lished earlier this week. The ◆ Christian kids are typical- “naturalistic, not supernatural unlikely to carry Ann Nyland’s husband’s attorney, Eleanor ly sent to Sunday school for world view,” the camp website Study New Testament for Gay, Gery, said she had never seen lessons in morality and Bible states. Adult nonbelievers are Lesbian, Bi, and Transgender if a court agree to appraise a study. For nonbelievers, there’s leaning on such secular Sunday the version proves controversial. church in her 16 years prac- atheist Sunday school. With an schools to help teach their kids —Ethan Cole/Christian Post
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6 December 15, 2007
4488 News.inddNews.indd 6 44/12/07/12/07 10:25:5710:25:57 AMAM SPD executive committee reports Adventist Health Church leader calls for Association revived ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA faith as “way of life” he Adventist Health Association (AHA), a network for health profes- WAHROONGA, NEW SOUTH WALES sionals and church members interested Tin health evangelism, is being revived n an address to the annual meeting of in Australia. the executive committee of the South A new AHA chapter is anticipated to be Pacific Division (SPD), General Con- established in South Australia (SA) next year Iference president Dr Jan Paulsen after its constitution is approved by the South urged that religion “in not necessarily a Australian Conference. Twenty-two people collection of ideas, it is a way of life.” have expressed interest in becoming mem- Dr Paulsen addressed committee mem- bers and AHA SA’s coordinator, Drusilla bers on November 14 as part of his two- Nowicki, is hoping for more participation day visit to the annual meetings. by health professionals, students and church Reflecting on James 1:27, Dr Paulsen members upon its establishment. commented on a variety of global is- AHA works in partnership with the local sues, such as war, HIV/AIDS and other church conference and its primary function diseases, poverty, hopelessness and is to nurture health professionals, giving loneliness. them the opportunity to meet with their He challenged committee members Adventist counterparts and receive encour- regarding their response to these reali- agement and support. ties and tragedies. Pastor Jan Paulsen, president of the Ms Nowicki says AHA SA was formed “How are you, your church and your General Conference, addressing initially to support Adventist health profes- congregation doing in looking after the attendees of the South Pacifi c Division’s sionals in the region, and encourage them widows and the orphans?” he asked. executive committee meetings. and church members to promote “health “And I think we need a wider definition Reflecting on the second descriptor of within the context of the gospel.” of ‘widows and orphans,’ to include all “pure religion” in James 1:27, Dr Paulsen AHA chapters were present in major the ‘exposed’ ones. commented that the world is a strange Australian cities in the 1970s but have “How are we touched by these pains? place and the followers of Christ have dwindled to two in recent times, with one Does it really tear into me? A religion always had an uneasy relationship with in south-east Queensland and one in West- that is pure and faultless is touched by the world. ern Australia. “AHA networks teams for the sufferings of the exposed ones.” “Many of us have been taught that to health evangelism and seminars,” says Mr Dr Paulsen urged that it is impossi- stay close to God we should not stay too Daniel de Bruyn, president of the Queens- ble to read the Gospels and not be im- close to the world,” he said. “We have land chapter. “It is especially benefi cial for pressed by how much Christ cared for feared contamination by the world. But smaller churches.” the poor. the world needs to be thought of as people As AHA’s members include health pro- “I wish there was a way that the local loved by God that He came to save, and fessionals, it is able to supply people to help congregation could make it a ministry He invites us to join Him in that.” at a local church’s health program, give to identify the ‘exposed ones’ in your While noting the risk of “pollution” health talks, or do promotions at exhibi- community and that there be a defined by the world James highlights, includ- tions or shows. plan to continuously go out and reach ing temptations to decadence, selfish- The Adventist health director for the them,” he said. “It has to do with the ness and various forms of idolatry, Dr South Pacifi c Division, Jonathan Duffy, says thinking and mindset of each of us. Paulsen concluded, “It is an imperfect he would “love to see every state have an Every church should be agents of hope world but that is where we are and that active AHA working with their local con- to these people. is where we conduct mission. Let God ferences. Health professionals have a tough “This is where we live. This is where touch the world through you, your time, job and we want to provide them with an everyday life is experienced. This is your talents, and your resources and environment where they can feel nurtured where Christ has said, ‘I want you to be you will find you have lived a rich life.” and will be able to meet with other Adventist My witnesses—and, please, don’t just —Nathan Brown health professionals.”—Melody Tan talk to them. I want you to be something More @ http://adventist.org.au/ For more on AHA, contact Jenny Robson to them.’” newsevents via < [email protected]>.
December 15, 2007 7
4488 News.inddNews.indd 7 44/12/07/12/07 8:47:098:47:09 AMAM feature Natural Christianity BY STAN SHAW
hings have a habit of sneaking up If we can’t tell people about these good an organisation that serves. on us, and we need to stop every now things, we must ask ourselves the ques- We are so caught up in the business of and then to evaluate where we are. tion: “Is Jesus really in my life or am I just doing church, it seems we sometimes forget TThat’s why we need to take time for pretending—going through the motions the real reason we are there. Most people each of us to compare how we are doing of my Christianity?” with a job to do at church on Sabbath morn- church today with the New Testament True Christianity is more infectious than ing barely have time to scratch themselves, model. the measles! But it requires a glowing, natu- let alone spend time with God and fellow- The New Testament church was an ral Christian to carry it. It requires a per- ship with other members. out-fl owing of people’s lives—not some- son to have the love of Jesus exuding from We are so over-organised we cannot be thing they did. It was a natural part of them. Someone who is loving, kind, com- involved in fellowship times in a natural their existence—even the reason they ex- passionate, tolerant and patient. Someone way. Our main concern on Sabbath morn- isted. Preaching the good news of salva- who freely exhibits the “fruits of the Spirit,” ing is getting Sabbath school and the wor- tion through Jesus and making disciples as outlined in Galatians 5:22, 23. ship service running smoothly. of others is the continuing reason for the We have to seriously examine how we We are too busy scurrying around, en- existence of churches today. spend our time. What is consuming it? suring the special items are in place, and But we must replace the corporate with As we allow time for personal Bible study sorting out the sound system, the data pro- the personal. We must regain the balance and prayer, we will naturally draw closer jector and the speaker’s laptop, we don’t between the institutional and the relational to Jesus. This will cause mundane things, receive the benefi ts of our fellowship with aspects, which existed in the New Testa- like watching TV or whatever else is dis- God and each other. ment Church and the early Adventist tracting us, to cease to be important. The Our church services are so crammed Church. At the same time, let me quickly things of God will grow in importance. As we don’t get a chance to connect with add that I am not anti-organisation. We our love for Jesus grows, we will naturally God. First-time visitors who come in are need organisation to avoid chaos. Indeed, want to tell others about Him. We will be- ignored and sometimes walk out without organisation is God-given. come “infectious.” being noticed. Our church activities need But today the term “church” has be- a more natural fl ow to them. come generic. It can mean anything to Is our organisation too corporate? do with Christianity. But as has been said In many places, the church building is Church is not: many times, church is not a building. It used on Sabbath and then locked until 1. A business. is a group of Christians—a relationship the next Sabbath. Gone are the days when 2. A consumer product. between Christian brothers and sisters, church was a way of life—a time when the 3. A place to hang out on Saturday morn- the body of Christ—who meet together building was never closed and was avail- ings because our friends are there. to worship God and fellowship with each able to all, anytime. It was a haven for 4. A place to conduct programs just because other. In other words, the church is the believers to be alone with their God—to we are supposed to. members. The place where they meet is meditate, refl ect and pray, away from the the church building. outside world. Church is: Jesus built His church on the apostles, It was a haven for non-believers who 1. A place where believers committed to who were individuals. They were to go out were seeking something better. To escape their God meet with Him and fellow- and make others disciples of Jesus, who in from their troubled lives for just a few mo- ship with each other. turn would bring others to Jesus to become ments. A place where they could fi nd a little 2. The members—and visitors. disciples, and thus perpetuate and grow the peace and quiet, or human contact, if they 3. A place of love, acceptance, nurture and kingdom of God. wanted it. A place to discover the wonderful friendship. It is time to take our Christianity per- grace that Jesus offers so freely to all. 4. A place to receive God’s grace from all sonally. To do this, we need to pull back The pastor was more available. He was who attend there, whether you are a mem- and examine ourselves—to evaluate our at the church every day. You could sit with ber or a stranger. relationship with Jesus and what we are him and talk in a casual, relaxed manner, 5. A place to connect with God. doing for Him individually. As we draw and he had time to relate to you on a per- 6. A place to be edifi ed, exhorted. nearer to Jesus, our witnessing won’t be sonal basis. 7. A place where you feel you belong. an activity we do—it will occur naturally. We will want to tell people about the good We have let our church become an or- The world around us has become ex- things Jesus is doing in our lives. ganisation off ering services, instead of tremely corporate and economically driven,
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who they are. After all, Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, 29*). It is our responsibility to be ready to re- ceive God’s people, as He calls them out of the world and they walk through the front door of our church. We cannot afford to be so over-organised that when these people turn up, we are too busy doing church to have time for them.
People come before programs! We need to coin a new phrase—natural Christianity—to take us away from our over-organised culture. It has been said, “There is nothing more desirable than a loving and lovable Christian.” This can only occur in a natural environment—not an artifi cial one. (Consider the apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.) Organisations are initially formed to serve their members. But it’s a strange thing and has infected our church. Corporately Subcommittees can take care of the with human nature that members usually we leave everything for the pastor to do— smaller matters, freeing the church lead- end up serving the organisation. aren’t they paid to do that? Besides, we put ers to deal with important matters, like A natural environment is organised but in fair offerings every week, that should enlarging God’s kingdom. not to the point where the organisation is take care of things. Church has to be the place we can turn to all consuming. It is an environment where But what about personal responsibility in times of trouble—somewhere we know people are relaxed and have time to con- to God? There is something larger than we will fi nd help and hope. It should not nect with God, to love and care for each our local congregation. It’s called the king- be the sort of place a drug addict described, other, and share each other’s burdens. A dom of God. We need to keep both in their when it was suggested she go to a local place where if a stranger walks in the door, proper perspective to maintain a balanced church to seek help. “Church!” she said, there are ample people to receive them, talk Christian life. Scripture tells us we are a “Why would I ever go there? I was already with them, and minister to them. A place priesthood of believers. In other words, feeling terrible about myself. They’d just where we can give them answers to their everyone must pull their own weight! make me feel worse.” problems using God’s Word, personally. When we rely on the infrastructure to Church is not something we do. It is who Don’t invite them to a program—that’s care for our church, we miss the point. we are. It has to be a part of our life, not passing the buck, leaving it for the pastor We become desensitised to the needs of our lifestyle. It has to be who we are. We or someone else to do. I love programs. those around us. Over a period of time, are Christians. It must be a natural part of Our church is blessed with gifted evan- we lose our connection with the Holy our life to tell others how much Jesus loves gelists but a program can never replace a Spirit and become lukewarm. We must them and how much we do, too. It doesn’t personal relationship. take responsibility to care for our church take programs to do that. Jesus’ instruction to us is, “But ye are individually. a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, Economics has infi ltrated the church It takes a connection with Jesus through an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye structure to such a degree that church the Holy Spirit. should shew forth the praises of him who board meetings now seem to spend most Church has to be a place where people hath called you out of darkness into his of their time debating the economics of meet freely and often, naturally. They marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9). the local church. According to the church should not be compelled to attend out of a We, the Church, are responsible. Don’t manual, the primary responsibility of any sense of duty to some program but to meet forget the church is us, individually. And local church board is evangelism—all other with God, and enjoy fellowship with Him we must make time to be about our Fa- issues are secondary. Instead, valuable and fellow believers. ther’s business. R time is spent debating whether the church Church is a place of praise and worship. should purchase this or that mower, what A place where strangers off the street can *Bible quotations are from the King James Version. colour the carpet should be in the foyer or come to fi nd what is missing in their lives— whether we really need new tea towels in Jesus. A place to fi nd hope, a place to be- Stan Shaw writes from Deception the kitchen. long, a place to be loved and accepted for Bay, Queensland.
December 15, 2007 9
4488 Features.inddFeatures.indd 9 44/12/07/12/07 8:44:428:44:42 AMAM feature Life resonates BY SUSAN JOHNSTONE
t’s holiday time and we have rented night-time. a house at the beach. We enjoy lazy We reach a crest where mornings on the back patio, eating traffi c has become a slow I breakfast in the sun. We walk along crawl. My husband has to the sand and watch seagulls soaring on brake abruptly and we, the wind. We pick up driftwood, shells too, are soon puttering and bits of pumice stone, and carry them close together in the line home in a bucket. We wander around the of cars. Two tow trucks are a few vehicles parked vehicles, dazed and powerless to wide streets of the seaside village, investi- ahead of us, their orange lights fl ashing. continue their journeys. gating little shops and taking detours to There must be an accident. All around us, the sun is still setting, the the playground. The traffi c is stopped another couple bush is still pulsing with energy, ready to On one particular day, we decide to drive of hundred metres down the road. Bruce greet the new day tomorrow. At least one into the city to do some shopping. We go turns off the engine to save fuel and we life is gone, and we move on to the rest of from one shopping centre to another, look- wait. The children look around and doze our holiday. From the cassette deck comes ing for things we cannot fi nd. People jostle in the back seat. the sound of Chris Rice singing, “Every us and piped music clamours for our atten- In this break, we are released from our day is a gift you’ve been given/ make the tion. We feel frustrated, regretting the im- hurry and contemplate the dying day. The most of the time, every moment you’re pact this has on our relaxation. We call it a mountains are still soaking up the last rays living. . . .” day and make a service station our last stop. of sunlight, their colours blending together My heart throbs with resonances of life, We start to drive back and get caught in in the twilight. The grass on the roadside and yet the fatality I witnessed is real and afternoon peak-hour traffi c. Our children is long, offering hope of life and growth. signifi cant. The juxtaposition of life and are becoming hot, tired and hungry. Oncoming traffi c goes past in a cluster, death is mind-blowing. I wonder how God We take the route out of town and stop their headlights sparkling in the dimness. feels about all this. for roadworks along the way. I look out At last, the cars ahead of us begin to Does God care? What a stupid question! the car window and see some horses eating move and we slowly inch forward. As we More importantly, do I care? God is where grass in a paddock. The orange glow of late crest the hill, we see an array of emergency He always is, holding this planet together— afternoon tints the scene and enhances the vehicles—three fi re trucks, an ambulance while we do our best to rip it apart. But hue of the ground, the bark on the trees. or two and many police cars. We see the where am I? What am I doing for all the Large, old gum trees remind me of the roof of a bus parked among it all. lives that can be saved? Am I just driving stunning part of Australia I grew up in. A policewoman directs the line of traffi c past, having a look, then moving on to my There is something rich and deeply reas- onto a track off the side of the road, to by- happy pursuits? suring about God’s creation, as seen in the pass the accident. As we fi le past, we peer I cannot sit by while I have life and hope, bush. It has a resilience and strength that through the long grass to assess the scene. and others don’t. Thousands of people die isn’t evident in a delicate fl ower or lush, There is a ute and a car. The car is each day from hunger, and a small donation green lawn. When superfi cial aesthetics are pointed toward us and its front half is com- to an aid organisation makes a big impact put aside, the true nature of God is revealed. pletely smashed. There is no way the driver on a community’s pain and suffering. De- Underneath is a powerful resonance—a could have survived. A stretcher is on the pression wraps paralysing tentacles around clue to the power and emotion of God. ground, covered in a telltale white sheet. young people, while a few sincere conver- These hints of God pulse through me Ambulance offi cers are moving around sations can be the difference between hope once the traffi c is allowed to continue. We under temporary spotlights, doing what and despair. There must be thousands of are driving slightly under the speed limit they have to do. lives I could help in some way. and people behind us want to overtake. This is it—the place and time of death. We continue our journey but the memory The road swings around the hills and we We drive past, have our look and move lingers. Life is a priceless gift. I want to see more mountains beyond, lit by the set- on. There is nothing we can do. We don’t make the most of every moment. R ting sun. The purples and orange-pinks know the people involved. There is nothing are intense. Vehicles have switched on we could have done to prevent it. Sadness their lights and we now have a glimmer- grips me as I realise the seriousness of it all. Susan Johnstone writes from ing trail to follow, although it is not yet Beyond the accident, drivers stand beside Stanthorpe, Queensland.
10 December 15, 2007
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Mick’s story BY JESSICA KRAUSE here is a couple at my church called Mick and Viv. Viv has been a Seventh-day Adventist for as long as I’ve known her. As a matter of fact, Viv was the fi rst person my T dad baptised —but Mick was different. This is his story. When I was little, I went to church and Mick would drive Viv to church. Mick would help set-up, because we had church in a school and had to get all our things unpacked for church. Mick had never heard my dad preach but if I asked him to come to Sabbath school, he would always come with Skye and me. (Skye was a non-Adventist girl who Mick and Viv took to church.) And then he would go home. When the church service fi nished, Mick would help pack up, and take Viv and Skye home. That’s what it was like every Sabbath. When I went to big camp, my dad’s parents and Mick and Viv stayed with us. I still remember saying grace that went like this, “Dear Jesus, thank you for the food—Mick, you’ve got your eyes open.” So, I said grace again and Mick had to close his eyes. At one of the camps I went to, Mick gave his life to Jesus. This is how it happened: Mick was in a campmeeting and the pastor asked something like “Who wants to give their life to Jesus today?” And Mick said all of a sudden his hand was up in the air—and nobody had put it there. Then my grandad came over and prayed with him and then Viv came over. My dad had to go back home to my church to preach. When he called my mum to say he had gotten home safely, she said I had something to tell him. I got on the phone and said to him, “Daddy, Mick gave his life to Jesus today.” My dad said, “He did not!” I said, “He did too!” So my dad talked to Mick and now Mick is baptised and goes to church. R
Jessica Krause is 10 years old and part of the Central Coast Community church in Wyong, New South Wales. Taylor Peta
December 15, 2007 11
4488 Features.inddFeatures.indd 1111 44/12/07/12/07 8:44:438:44:43 AMAM letters Aviation annoyance In praise of nature Noncombatancy? KEN WESLAKE, NSW ALAN SMITH, QLD STEVE SLEIGHT, NSW I was surprised and very disappointed at Thank you, Eric White (“Nature defi cit I’d like to think those who took the the report in the RECORD of the closure of disorder,” Features, November 17) for your stands of noncombatancy and conscien- the Avondale School of Flying (“Aviation at powerful plea that we remember our rela- tious objection, in the age of prophetic Avondale to end,” News, November 24). tionship to the natural world, rather than and heroic vision, did so from their own To come at a time when there is an in- the synthetic one that seems to inexorably convictions beyond whatever the stance of ternational shortage of pilots, a critical invade our space. I trust that it resonates their church at the time. shortage of pilots here in this country, with us by the thousands and kindles great- However, uncompromising idealism interest-free scholarships from the Fed- er efforts to keep in touch with the Creator. may throw one into a quagmire of uncom- eral Government worth up to $A80,000 to prospective trainee pilots, a growing need Bloodshed is always a reality in for pilots for our Mission aviation program in Papua New Guinea and an increasing our world. As to how much, we number of young Papuan men wishing to do have some choice . . . become mission pilots, it just doesn’t make any sense at all. In this time in history, when so few of us fortable realities. Consider these: One would hope that other faculties in grow up on farms, there is greater urgency 1. Even a cursory reading of the Old Tes- the college program, which have strug- than ever for this effort. tament shows endorsement of militarism gled over the past several years and run at and killing for some causes and situations. a fi nancial loss, will not be treated in the It simply will not go away. same way. If they are, we could end up Religious outreach 2. Someone must fi ght and bear arms. with a college offering very few options To do less is to allow greater atrocities in its program in the future. DIANE STYLES, VIC to occur. Do we simply stand by and let I have some concerns with statements by problems escalate in East Timor and the William Johnsson regarding his question Solomon Islands? The police must bear Not happy, John “How should Adventists relate to Mus- arms for the same reason. Just to endorse lims?” (“Children of Abraham,” Advent- armed intervention is to implicate you to MILTON HOOK, NSW ist World, November 10). Although, as is the same degree. John Cunningham concludes his letter agreed, it is partly our commission to love 3. If you pay tax, you are likewise impli- (“Not of this world?” Letters, November our fellow man as we do ourselves, in no cated in all military interventionist activi- 10) with the admirable declaration that way are we told to merely live side-by-side ties the government undertakes—whether changing people’s hearts with the Gospel in some type of peaceful conformity with you agree or not. is the imperative for Christians. those who know not our message! Jesus told 4. If you live in Australia, you are a ben- It is his other views that trouble me. us we are to be, as we go, “teaching them to efi ciary of the past sacrifi ce and service He asserts that Jesus did not form a observe all things whatsoever I have com- of Australian military personnel that we political party, join protest marches or manded you” (Matthew 28:20). honour every Anzac day. lobby political leaders, therefore we, as The Lord has given to Adventists the last Bloodshed is always a reality in our professed Christians, should not engage message of warning to mankind, and our world. As to how much, we do have some in these activities. church was especially raised up and estab- choice. This is curious logic. lished to give that message—to all nations, Noncombatancy and conscientious ob- It leads me to assume that, in view of kindreds, tongues and peoples. jection simply do not cut it. the fact Jesus did not establish a single We are not to merely preach a “love all” Someone may be a conscientious com- school or hospital, and did not sell scrolls message. If we do, we are merely repeating batant, and equally worthy of our respect door-to-door, then Christians should not the message of apostate protestantism! and pride. Perhaps more so, since they set up educational and medical institu- How should Adventists relate to Muslims, may be so easily dismissed as being in it tions, or conduct publishing and colpor- or any other religion or people? By holding for bloodlust. teur enterprises. out to them the only message of hope left The fl ip side of this logic is the proposi- to all mankind in the time we have left— Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent tion that we should only do what Jesus did. that of the three angels’ messages—and the those of the editors or the denomination. Letters That leads me to the logical conclusion that warning that every man’s God and Judge should be less than 250 words, and writers must include their name, address and phone number. All in view of the fact Jesus trained as a car- is soon to return. We all need to seek God’s letters are edited to meet space and literary require- penter, was baptised at about thirty years forgiveness and make preparation for this ments, but the author’s original meaning will not be of age and never married, then Christians event wihtout delay. Are we forgetting our changed. Not all letters received are published. See should do likewise. divine commission? I pray not. masthead (page 2) for contact details.
12 December 15, 2007
4488 Letters.inddLetters.indd Sec1:14Sec1:14 44/12/07/12/07 8:46:428:46:42 AMAM noticeboard Positions vacant Volunteers! Volunteer Youth Pastor—Kingscliff, ▲ Book Department Support Offi cer—Signs Publishing Company (Warburton, Vic). The NSW. Youth pastor needed for 12 successful applicant for this full-time position will possess strong Microsoft Offi ce skills, months, commencing Feb 2008 at together with database experience. They will be a team player in a busy, effi cient and Kingscliff Adventist Community happy workplace environment. Customer service is paramount, as is commitment to the church. Duties include coordination church and its values. Flexibility and enthusiasm is essential. For more information or po- of youth, teen and young adult Sabbath sition description, contact Book Department manager Liz Dunstan
Department. Responsibilities include performance monitoring and detailed variance Hallworth (Melbourne, Vic), and Joanne Email: analysis, standard product costing, and budgeting. Also an eye for detail, together with Karen Thornewell, daughter of Roger
December 15, 2007 13
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an always welcome “Come in, my dearie,” ing forward to meeting again on that great Zealand to work at the Auckland Advent- Slaughter, William James, born 8.9.1941; died when knocking on her door at the Lodge. Resurrection morning. ist Hospital. The hospitals closure in 1999 7.10.07 at home of leukaemia. He is survived She was laid to rest in Cooranbong Cem- Graham Wynniatt meant they had to move to Australia and by his wife, Shirley, and his children, Angela, etery on 15.11.07 to await the call of the Haselden, Dorothy, born 13.9.1916; died they worked for the South Pacifi c Division, Penny and Sonny. He lived a simple life and Lifegiver. Tom Turner 25.9.07 peacefully in Maples Life Care, fi rstly at the Manly Flats, then at the Mission loved prospecting and fi shing. He loved his Christchurch, NZ. She is survived by Hostel at Wahroonga. Brian was recently Lord, and remained faithful to God and his Croudson, Gladys, born 22.2.1933 at her children and their spouses, Richard, diagnosed with cancer but it never stopped church at Caboolture, Qld. Loxton, SA; died 8.10.07 in the Ipswich Michael and Virginia, Simon and Adri- his love for God. He was a gentle man, pas- Ross Baines, Lindsay Hospital, Qld. On 6.11.1950, she married enne, Julian and Rachel, Victoria and Rolf, sionate about his beliefs with a quick sense of Nigel and they were married for 57 years. and Jeremy and Janine. She was laid to humour. He strongly believed in the teach- Townend, Maxwell Gordon, born 3.3.1923 She is survived by her husband; her sons, rest on 1.10.07. The memory of this loving ings of the church and was fascinated by the in Wellington, NZ; died 2.10.07 in the Es- Garry, Darryl, Kelvin, Bronte, Paul and Christian woman will live on as she awaits Creation Vs Evolution theories. ther Somerville Nursing Home, Sydney, Clive; her daughters, Robyn Hick and the coming of the Lifegiver. Gilberto Dias, Allan Foote NSW. On 20.9.1944, he married Eunice Careena McLauchlan; 16 grandchildren; Allan Hedges Rhodes, who predeceased him on 7.1.04. and three great-grandchildren. These last Robinson, Alfred, born 15.2.1928 at Kya- He is also predeceased by his son, Kevin, four years, Nigel has lovingly cared for Harman, Lindsay Malcolm, born 27.7.1926 bram, Vic; died 18.10.07 at Coronella Re- on 12.11.04. He is survived by his daughter Gladys after she was stricken down with at Auckland, NZ; died 1.11.07 in Canossa tirement Village, Melbourne. Prior to his and son-in-law, Raewyn and Peter Binning illness. Gladys was a caring and generous Private Hospital, Brisbane, Qld. He is sur- move to Coronella in 2005, Alfred was a (Wahroonga); his grandchildren, Samantha, woman who loved her family, her church vived by his wife, Margurita; their children, long-term member of Lilydale church. Chantal, Shaun (all of Sydney) and Carla and her God. She will be sorely missed by Mark, Sean and Ellen; as well as his children He is survived by his sister and broth- (Canberra); his great-granddaughters, Paige family and friends and now rests, await- from Tui, Judy and David, from previous er-in-law, Robyn and Ian Taylor (War- and Mackenzie (Sydney); his brother, Brian ing the call of the Lifegiver, the one whom marriages. Lin was a faithful member of rnambool, Vic); his nephew, Dr David (Cooranbong); and sister, Lorraine (Pansy) she served faithfully all her life. Springwood church, who loved Jesus Christ. Taylor (Blackburn) and a circle of good Robson (Christchurch). He served in the NZ Ervin Ferris, Neville McLauchlan He requested to be buried with his grand- friends. One particularly close friend was army before joining his brother, Les, in the parents at Levuka, Fiji, where he will await Bert Gibbs from Lilydale, who assisted Medical Corps in the Coral Seas campaign in Dell, Daisy Elva, born 31.5.1923 at Mildura, the coming of our Lord Jesus. at Alfred’s memorial service, held in the the Solomon Islands. He served the church Vic; died 1.11.07 in Maroondah Hospital, Andre van Rensburg Nunawading church. for more than 50 years in many roles. He is Vic. On 5.7.1948, she married Bill at Yar- Trevor Rowe especially remembered for his leaderhip in raville. She is survived by her husband (War- McCallum, Lorna Elsie, born 13.2.1931 the Communication Department. Max will burton); her sons, Rob Hamilton (Croydon) at Brunswick, Vic; died 17.11.07 at Glen Rodd, Theodore Leslie, born 15.5.1914 in be remembered for his service to his country and Maurice Dell; her daughter, Melitah Waverley. She is survived by her sister, Doris Perth, WA; died 3.11.07 in the Royal Perth and his commitment to extending the king- Davis (Adelaide, SA); and her grandchil- Cooksley (Chadstone); her brother Laurie Hospital. On 9.11.1940, he married Dor- dom of God wherever he served. dren. Known for the vigour and good hu- (Cairns, Qld); and her sister, Lois Wilson. othy Thornton, who predeceased him in Brian Townend, Calvyn Townend mour with which she lived her life, Daisy Lorna was a highly valued member of the 1997. He is survived by his son, Trevor worked at the Sanitarium Health Food Ferntree Gully church. She has served the Rodd; and his daughter, Margaret (both in Whitbourne, Kenneth William, born Company and Signs Publishing Company church not only at local level but at Con- Perth). Theo was one of the stalwarts, who 12.4.1921 at Clifton Hill, Vic; died 1.10.07 at for much of her working life. ference and Union levels, as well as several laid the foundations for the old Mt Lawley Cooranbong, NSW. On 3.8.1940, he married Eric and Joy Kingdon periods of mission service in PNG, Fiji and church, Perth. Rest now ‘til morning. Marg. He is survived by his wife (Cooran- Zimbabwe. She was a quiet achiever who Phil Rhodes bong); his children, Roslyn Hale (Mulgrave, Foster, Marguerita (Rita), born 22.3.1907 has contributed to the church with distinc- Vic), Alan and Patricia (Bulahdelah, NSW), at Lyttleton, NZ; died 8.11.07 in Victoria tion, as was testifi ed at her funeral at Fern- Scudamore, Rosemarie Joan (nee Salmon), Robert (Cooranbong), Greg and Patricia Point Adventist Retirement Village, Qld. tree Gully church on 21.11.07. born 26.10.1944 in Kingston, Jamaica; died (Qld), Catherine Whitbourne (Laurieton, On 16.9.07, she married Keith Foster and Darrell Croft 12.10.07 in Logan Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, NSW), Andrew and Judy (Mannering they had 65 years together until his death of cancer. On 30.5.1970, she married Donald. Park), Keith and Michele (Norah Head); his on 11.6.1994. She is survived by her daugh- McLeay, Gwendolyn (nee Jobson), born She is survived by her husband; and her sons, 23 grandchildren; and his 14 great-grand- ter, Shirley Bond; her two grandchildren, 13.10.1925 at Taree, NSW; died 7.8.07 in Bruce and Sean (all in Brisbane). Rosie was a children. Ken trained in the metal and ma- Kerry and Phillip; eight great-grandchil- Mareeba Nursing Home, Maclean. Gwen pillar in her community, devoting countless chinery industry as an engineer. He would dren; and two great-great-grandchildren. married Wally, who predeceased her in 1987. hours to ADRA, Asian Aid, Red Cross and never avoid a challange, instead confronting Rita’s mother died two days after giving Her youngest son, John, also predeceased her general community service. She touched the it head-on. This led to Ken setting up his birth and, as her father was a sea captain, in 1983. She is survived by her sister, Joyce lives of many and made a real difference in own business when most people are thinking she was brought up by her father’s broth- McElligott (Woombye); her seven children her world. She will be greatly missed by her of retirement and he ran it successfully until er, Joseph Flynn, and his wife, Rosie. She and their spouses, Allan (Lockyer Waters, family, her church and her community. he was 75. The greatest love of Ken’s life spent her teen years working in SHF cafes Qld), Heather Bailey (Maclean, NSW), R Possingham, M Collum, L Greenwood was his family. While a resident in Kressville in Melbourne and Sydney. Rita said she Keith (Townsville, Qld), Elizabeth Fitzger- Hostel, Ken enlarged his love for the Lord had a full and happy life, and thoroughly ald (Goonellabah, NSW), Robert (Maclean), Smith, Gertrude (nee Turnbull), born and was baptised by Pastor Fletcher. Ken enjoyed her 100th birthday celebration in Alice Bushell (Maclean) and Margaret Lom- 26.11.1906 at Mount Perry, Qld; died 4.10.07 rests awaiting his Saviour’s call. March this year, with many of her family man (Longford, Tas); her 23 grandchildren; in Wyong Hospital, NSW. On 12.9.1928, Alan Saunders, Austin Fletcher and friends. Rita’s faith and trust in the and her 17 great-grandchildren. Gwen is she married Lionel Harold Smith, who pre- Lord was an inspiration to those who knew remembered for her wisdom, love, accept- deceased her in 1985. She is survived by her her, and she had no fear of death because, ance and encouragement. She was dearly daughter and son-in-law, Elaine and Pas- she said, “ the next person I see will be Je- loved by all her family and church. She had tor Austin Fletcher; her son, Pastor Lionel Advertisements sus.” Orm Speck been actively involved in church life for more and his wife Doreen; her son Raymond and Note: Neither the editor, Signs Publishing than 30 years. Despite failing health and pain wife Carol; her nine grandchildren (two of Company, nor the Seventh-day Advent- Flinn, Cyril John, born 30.1.1922 at Pon- in the last six months, Gwen never com- whom are pastors); 27 great-grandchildren; ist Church is responsible for the quality of typool, Wales; died 28.10.07 in Narromine plained and has gone to rest in the assur- and one great-great-grandson. Gertrude goods or services advertised. Publication Hospital, NSW. In 1944 he married Wilma, ance of her salvation and Resurrection. She was baptised by Pastor Scott Stewart in Qld does not indicate endorsement of a product who predeceased him. He was also prede- is sadly missed. in 1930, and was tireless in working for her or service. Advertisements approved by the ceased by his son, Brian in 1969. In 1973 he Darren Pratt, Paul Richardson family and the church. Together with hus- editor will be inserted at the following rates: married Cathy. He is survived by his wife; band Lionel, a builder, she worked on the fi rst 30 words or less, $A49.50; each addi- his children and their spouses, Anne and O’Connell, Brian, born 10.8.1945 at South Wiluna Aboriginal Mission, WA and pio- tional word, $A2.20. For your advertise- Keith Bienvenu (Swan Hill, Vic), John and Shields, UK; died 21.9.07 at Hornsby Hos- neered the building of the Atoifi Hospital, ment to appear, payment must be enclosed. Caroline (Brisbane, Qld), Brian and Zena pital, Sydney, NSW. He is survived by his Solomon Islands. A further 14 of her family Classifi ed advertisements in RECORD are (Melbourne, Vic), and Jeffrey and Julie (Mel- wife, Gillian Dove (Sydney); and his chil- line have served in the mission fi eld. She was available to Seventh-day Adventist mem- bourne, Vic). John, a true gentleman, re- dren, Richard (Sydney); and Beverley and admired and loved by all who knew her, es- bers, churches and institutions only. See nowned for his faith and his caring nature, Jeffry Foote (Cooranbong). Brian was an pecially by her family, who rise up and call masthead (page 2) for contact details. was a family man with a love of the out- electrician who worked in the mines and her blessed. By God’s grace, we covenant to doors, vegetable gardening and pets. As his then installed alarms. He also worked for greet her on the great Resurrection morn- Visiting Tasmania at Christmas? Launce- health deteriorated, his faith grew stronger. the Stanborough Press in England. Brian ing. Maranatha! ston church will present “Music for the He was greatly loved by family and will be and Gill decided they wanted to work for Lionel Smith, Raymond Smith New Year,” December 29, 11 am. Come dearly missed by his grandchildren. Look- the church again and emigrated to New Austin and James Fletcher and share music, inspiration and praise
14 December 15, 2007
NNBB 448.indd8.indd 1414 44/12/07/12/07 8:47:318:47:31 AMAM noticeboard Writers seminars Ray and Marilyn The art of storytelling Explore the process and possibilities of researching, Dickson: Life developing and writing stories that will be read. with a passion Then—As a professional singer with March 23, 24—Perth, WA performances in clubs, and winner of March 26, 27—Avondale College, NSW Australia’s Top Pop Star (equivalent to Australian Idol today) in 1955, Ray March 30—Brisbane, Qld Dickson could never have imagined the life God had planned for him: A life (Similar programs at each location.) fi lled with passion for serving God as a pastor of the Seventh-day Adventist Church around Australia. Featured presenter: It was not until Ray was living in a fl atat ththatat bbelongedelonged to aann Trudy J Morgan Cole, author of 11 books, Adventist lady that he met Jesus. Mrs Skelly gave Ray a Bible and invited him to Sabbath school and church, and in 1957 he became including Esther, Deborah and Barak and The a Seventh-day Adventist. From then on his life took a dramatic Violent Friendship of Esther Johnson (published by turn, with his performances changing from clubs to evangelistic and mission programs around Australia. It was at a particular evangelistic Penguin Canada). program in Sydney in 1970 when his personal life took a turn, and he met his future wife, Marilyn. Sponsored by Signs Publishing Company and At the time, Marilyn was working at the Sydney Adventist Avondale College. Hospital as a nurse on the maternity ward. Ray and Marilyn shared a passion for Jesus, and it wasn’t long before their relationship To register your interest, contact blossomed and they were married later that year. Kristel at
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