Love Your Global Neighbour

theadvocate.tv DECEMBER 2018

IN CONVERSATION Finding Faith duo, Andrew Tierney “Perhaps we need to keep challenging ourselves about the and Tim Dunfield talk about their passion for writing power of un-deciding to open ourselves to an even bigger songs of worship and their debut album. PAGE 12 >> decision – an even bigger ‘yes’.” SIMON ELLIOTT PAGE 13>>

3 Holy secularism Christmas is not what it used to be >>

4 Royal Commission Scheme provides support for childhood abuse >> Photo: Shane Burrell Risanya can grow enough food to feed her family and sell at the market for an income, thanks to the support of good neighbours in Australia. Love your global 10 Asia Bibi freed Christian mother released neighbour from Pakistan’s death row >>

Baptist World Aid Australia, in conjunction with A Just Cause, has launched a efforts leading up to the next new report: The Global Neighbour Index. The report examines: Is Australia a good Federal Election, where Baptists global neighbour?, taking seriously Jesus’ call to “love your neighbour as yourself”. around the country will organise electorate forums using the report as a guide to converse Committed to Against its most-developed peers, government and the broader “It is not often that we get to with candidates. Australia was ranked 11th out of community to participate influence the policymakers of The index uses ten indicators being honest, 20 overall in a report that graded responsibly in seeking change. our nation in such a specific and to consider complex issues such transparent and each country’s contribution to Rather than considering the way personal way,” Perth delegate as inequality, poverty, climate the United Nation’s Sustainable SDGs are being implemented in Karen Wilson said. change and conflict. It highlights above reproach. Development Goals (SDGs) and Australia, the report evaluates how “As we sat with Members of that Australia is good at trading outlined their strengths and areas well Australia is helping its less Parliament and had significant with developing nations (6th) requiring improvement. wealthy neighbouring countries. conversations, it was a proud and ranks highly in welcoming Baptist World Aid CEO John In September, Baptist moment for me to be able to immigrants from least developed BAPTIST CHURCHES Hickey believes that Australia leaders from around Australia, represent the collective view nations (5th). However, urgently WESTERN AUSTRALIA can do more to become a better including seven from Western of Baptists across Australia in needing improvement are global neighbour. Australia, gathered in Canberra standing for justice both in our carbon dioxide emission per “As a nation of significant at Parliament House to present nation and globally.” capita (18th), foreign aid (19th) capacity and long-standing the united voices of 140,000 Advocacy-focused Catalyst and global refugee share as wealth, Australia should act as Baptists on issues of social groups are growing across a proportion of Australia’s a leading role model addressing justice. They presented a copy Western Australia through new population (14th). global poverty through policy and of the The Global Neighbour and existing church partnerships practice,” John said. Index to each of the senators with Baptist World Aid. Church Author – Susy Lee The index is a part of Baptist and Members of Parliament groups will use the The Global World Aid’s strategy to influence they visited. Neighbour Index in advocacy 2 my view

DECEMBER 2018 Who’s the nincompoop?

I was riding my pushbike along the cycle path in Nightcliff the other day, I’ve heard that in times when to my surprise I saw a guy on a motorbike riding on the same path of conflict there are three towards me. “What a nincompoop,” I said to myself (or words that expressed a responses – fight, flee or freeze. In other words, go on similar meaning). the attack, run and hide, or be overwhelmed and paralysed. I thought, “Self, you should do As I thought about this, my that we are not that bad. In But I wonder if there is a forth something!” And so, I did. I waved mind drifted towards the current fact, there are so many good option? Befriend. After all, we my hands in a very animated social climate the Church finds news stories that we could are the ones called to go! Yes, it fashion, indicating that he should itself in. Are we really who they show them. Yes, God is at work is counterintuitive, but then so be on the road and not the path! say we are? Are our churches in the 21st century, He is still much of the gospel is. After all, evil prospers when good really institutions stuck in an transforming lives and the It makes you think. Mal Good men do nothing. However, as I archaic, patriarchal time warp, outcast has a home. If only got closer I realised that I was the irrelevant if not damaging to the they would come and see! Mal Good is the Lead Pastor nincompoop. Why? Because he rest of the 21st century? But then I thought back to my at Casuarina Baptist Church, was a police officer! If only they would not make encounter with the police officer located in the northern suburbs of Darwin. This incident reminded me their judgment calls from a and I realised something. It was that we can get things so wrong distance. If only they would me who made the judgment call when we make judgement calls take the time to get to know from a distance. It was me who from a distance. us, then they would realise got it wrong.

The invitation to come

I have three children – two girls and a boy, Finlay. He is two years old. He is at much. Then I think of all that the stage now where he loves to talk, and as with most two-year-olds, some of God has invited me to come and his words are difficult to understand, even for me. be a part of. Sometimes coming requires courage, discipline or leaving However, there are quite a few command ‘come’ made me think and told Jesus to invite him behind other things, but I am things he says with ease that of the way I respond to God’s onto the water. He made the reminded that when God invites everyone can understand, and command, or invitation to come. steps to come to Jesus, but us to come, it is always worth one of those words is ‘coming’. He I think of Matthew 11:28 and before reaching Him, he was it. We know that we can trust usually says coming in response Jesus’ invitation to all who are overwhelmed by the enormity of the One who calls us to come, to our beckoning, “Finny come weary to come and receive rest, the situation. because come is exactly what and choose a story” or “Finny and I see myself acknowledging So now every time my son He did for us. come brush your teeth.” He my fatigue and my desire for rest, calls out coming, I remind Samantha Good responds, “coming”, so eagerly, yet I am not taking any steps to myself of the guests who were Samantha Good is a cross- but usually he responds from the actually get closer to the One invited to the wedding banquet cultural worker with Global exact same place he was when who is calling. in Luke 14, but made excuses Interaction in Mozambique we called, and he has very little In Matthew 14, Peter not to come. I think of all they with her husband Ben and intention of actually coming. shows that he understood the missed out on because perhaps three children. Finlay’s standard response significance of being beckoned they were scared, or perhaps to the invitation, or even the by Jesus; he stood on the boat they loved their own plans too

Unexpected changes ...

I’d been looking forward to my flight from Perth to Sydney. Booked on a inconvenient time, and with no lovely large A330, my check of the seating plan showed a lightly occupied prearranged accommodation, plane with me comfortably seated in an aisle seat towards the front. the child was born in a stable. I guess they also muttered, “Don’t you hate it when things don’t go Making a final check on arriving but their plane was cancelled at least I’d get to play peekaboo to plan?” at the airport, I discovered the and they’d be arriving on a with the toddler, but he burst But they were wrong. Turns plane had been downsized to a substitute an hour later. My into tears at my first attempt. The out, that was the plan. It makes grubby little 737 and was now mood plunged again. mother glared at me. you think … completely full, though I still had A cramped flight and a long I reminded myself that an aisle seat towards the front. My wait at the airport lay ahead. I God often breaks through at mood dropped a notch. reminded myself to reduce my unexpected times. “Is this one of By the time I got to check in, fluid intake. Toilets on crowded them?” I asked. “Hardly likely.” Dr Brian Harris I was informed my seat had been tiny planes are in high demand. My mind moved to another Dr Brian Harris is the changed – I was now at the back. When I boarded, I discovered unexpected journey. From Principal of Vose Seminary My mood dropped further. it was even worse. A young couple Nazareth to Bethlehem, there and Pastor at Large for the Then I got a text from the with a child occupied the two was no cramped flight for that Carey Group. person I was meeting upon seats next to me. “Great”, I thought. couple. The nine-month pregnant arrival. We were scheduled to “So now we have four people in woman got the donkey, and the travel together to a conference, three seats.” I consoled myself that man walked. Labour came at an letters to the editor

The Advocate welcomes your letters to the editor on topics of concern to you and the community. Send your letters of no more than 100 words to [email protected] by the 10th of each month. news 3

DECEMBER 2018 Holy secularism

Christmas is not what first step towards change is it draws us to shopping centres it used to be. The acknowledgment. We need to and distracts us with sales. We Christmas in the Bible diagnose and name the disease want presents with a bow, not before prescribing surgery. the presence of God. Give me the was less a season and My disease is holy secularism. latest gadget, not the gospel truth. more an occasion. The symptoms include an Sing about Santa, not the Saviour. honourable mention for Christ, Open the wallet, but not the home. We spend a lot of money; but He is mostly excluded. Look Of course, we’ll join in the Christ was born into poverty. around and you’ll see this in carols, listen to the talks, and We consider Christmas ‘family pandemic proportions. Many of even add angels to the tree. time’; Mary and Joseph were us have unintentionally become However, the Christ-event which internally displaced people (and infectious carriers. calls us to simple gratitude and later refugees). We hang lights, The disease drives us to humility morphs into a season ornaments and decorations; catalogues more than to Christ; of impulse-spending, binge- the manger was, at best, lined buying and excess. We use with clean straw. We give lifeless sacred terms to justify ourselves objects that shine, taste good, or – generosity, thoughtfulness, love use batteries; God gave a person – and family. But sometimes we let His Son Jesus Christ. We embrace the the marketplace, not the Master, Everything about the coming define those terms. of Christ contrasts the ways in culture of I suspect the waiting list for which we ‘celebrate the season’. this spiritual surgery might be We embrace the culture of consumption long, but somewhere deep within consumption with little more with little more us an authentic light pierces than a sideways glance at the the darkness and compels us to claims of Christ. than a sideways consider why Christ came in the I’m no saint in this regard. first place. My own inconsistencies shine glance at the Search ‘Luke 2 Message Bible’ like a spotlight amidst the tiny claims of Christ. in your browser for a boost. flashlights of other people. But BCWA Director of Ministries Pastor Mark Wilson shares some thoughts in I desire to be different. The Author – Mark Wilson the lead up to Christmas this year.

Christian Book of the Year

The Bible in Australia: importance and a unique insight A Cultural History was into Australian culture. awarded the Sparklit “In The Bible in Australia, Meredith Lake gives an arresting 2018 Christian Book of and comprehensive account the Year. of how preachers, suffragists, unionists, politicians, writers, With over 70 books submitted, painters, musicians, immigrants Awards Coordinator Michael Collie and Indigenous peoples said that this year’s award drew have used the Bible to shape strong entries from accomplished Australian history and culture. writers. Many are leaders in Scripture arrived tattooed on their professions and fields the bodies of convicts aboard of endeavour. the First Fleet and, in the hands “The Bible in Australia is a of Indigenous Christians, has timely and revealing contribution nourished movements for to our debate about the role of justice, for land rights, and for faith in Australian life and public recognition and reconciliation,” Quality residential care conversation,” Michael said. the judges said. The judges found The Bible in for you or your loved one Australia to be a history of national Baptistcare is dedicated to helping each person we support maintain the important connections and activities they need for a full and meaningful life. If you are looking for quality permanent or respite accommodation, or specialised care for people living with dementia, we can help. You can expect a warm and friendly welcome from our highly skilled and caring staff.

1300 660 640 The 2018 Australian Christian Book of baptistcare.com.au the Year explores a neglected but indelible Baptistcare is one of WA’s largest not-for-profit residential aged care, home care and retirement living aspect of Australian providers, supporting communities in metro and regional WA for more than 45 years.

history and culture. Photo: Sparklit 4 news

DECEMBER 2018 BCWA to support victims

In October, delegates from Western Australian Baptist churches gathered at the Annual Assembly to welcome churches into membership, recognise newly accredited pastors, hear what God has done in the past year, and consider the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

In a unanimous vote, Baptist respect and made to feel that Churches Western Australia what happened to me really (BCWA) decided to participate mattered. I hope my experience in the National Redress Scheme. will help to promote the change The scheme exists to help needed to prevent this ever those who have experienced happening to another child,” childhood sexual abuse receive one person wrote. the support they need to redress The Commission report their wounds in a way that is the highlighted the inability of easiest for that person. institutions to listen or act to BCWA Church Health Pastor protect vulnerable people, Jackie Smoker said that while particularly children. It noted redress may help address the past, that institutions responded there is much that can be done in from a position of power and the future. self-preservation. Since its establishment in “Within religious institutions 2012, the Commission received there was often an inability to almost 17,000 enquiries and held conceive that a person in

57 public hearings. Its six religious ministry was capable of Photo: Shutterstock commissioners sat with 8,013 sexually abusing a child. This Baptist Churches Western Australia have made the decision to participate in the National Redress Scheme, helping people in private sessions, resulted in a failure by adults to those who have experienced childhood sexual abuse receive the support they need to re-dress their wounds. listening to their personal listen to children who tried to experiences. They heard disclose sexual abuse … and a accounts of their childhood willingness of religious leaders to “This should be a great dress the beaten man’s wounds. “It’s about learning to see, to abuses and the ongoing impact accept denials from alleged challenge to those who are Then he went beyond the stop, to demonstrate tender these had on their life. perpetrators,” the report stated. followers of Jesus.” immediate act of compassion to compassion and be able to pour “For many, this wasn’t the first Jackie said there are many At the Assembly, Jackie ensure the man received out healing salve on wounds.” time they had told their story, but things to learn from the reflected on the parable of the everything he might need “We must learn to listen, so it may have been the first time Commission. Good Samaritan: “A man is left to heal.” that churches can be safe places they were believed,” Jackie said. “Whilst one volume beaten and half dead by the side Jackie said if ever there was a where people can share their Those who spoke were given specifically addresses religious of the road. Two separate people time for the church to respond in experiences and receive healing.” the opportunity to share a message institutions, there are 15 other pass him by – a priest and a such a way, it was now. “These are reflections of the with the Australian community volumes that are worth Levite, two followers of God. “There are people who have good news that Jesus wants us about their experience on the consideration,” she said. People who had the capacity and experienced abuses of power, not to be.” Commission’s website. “This is an opportunity for the the means to stop and help, only as children, but also as adults “Thank you for the church to listen, learn, respond instead put themselves and their who have been shunned, opportunity to tell my story. and be all that Jesus calls us to be own needs first.” disbelieved and silenced. That is You cannot know what it meant – people of good news, in word “It was a Samaritan, a not good news in any form,” to be listened to with such and action.” religious outcast, who stopped to she said.

Churches become home to homeless

This past winter, “I’ve been warm. I’ve been in Melbourne churches a safe environment where I can opened their buildings take my medication and not have to worry about somebody robbing to those that needed it me in my sleep on the street,” the most. Michael said. Heathmont Baptist Church “I’m off the street, I feel safe. I will Assistant Pastor Mark Nidenko be safe,” Glenn, 48, said. commended the program and For the second year as part encouraged more churches to of the Winter Shelter program, get involved. seven churches in Melbourne’s “I think it’s part of what east welcomed Glenn and several Jesus would want us to do. other homeless men to sleep on Caring for the poor has always their premises. Their volunteers been part of the mandate of the – 200 in total – also served a Church,” he explained. homemade dinner for their “These guys are in pretty guests. rough straits, and if we can help Michael, 32, has suffered them, we’ve got a responsibility to from mental illness and drug do that.” addiction. After spending last year homeless in Melbourne’s Author – Gilbert Siahaan CBD and later robbed in a

boarding house, he turned to the Photo: Shutterstock church sleeping program. For the past two winters, homeless men escaped the 3°C nights and found shelter in Melbourne’s churches. news 5

DECEMBER 2018 Baptists encourage change

Over two days in September, 40 Converge delegates, representing leadership of the Australian Baptist Movement, took part in 58 meetings with politicians from across the political spectrum at Parliament House in Canberra.

Converge started in 2016 as an At the event’s final debrief, initiative of Australian Baptist delegates agreed that their Ministries, with three clear consistent engagement purposes: to build the wider with politicians created a Baptist presence in the eyes of positive message – that the politicians, to influence them Australian Baptist Movement on particular issues of shared is a movement that cares about Baptist concerns and to build vulnerable people, is willing to capacity for advocacy within the play a role in the solutions, and Baptist movement. expects the government to be In each of their meetings, part of these solutions. delegates thanked Members of “With every Converge event Parliament and senators for the held our success at achieving progress made since the 2017 these goals is increasing,” Converge, noting both requests Susy said. had almost progressed to law: amendments to the Family Law

Act to stop violent offenders Photo: Susy Lee from cross-examining their Baptist delegates attending 2018 Converge: Baptist World Australia CEO John Hickey, Senator David Fawcett, victims, and the creation of a A Just Cause founder Rev. Scott Higgins and Baptist Care Executive Director Marcia Balzer at the launch of the Modern Slavery Act that ensures Global Neighbour Index at Parliament House, Canberra. companies are accountable for ensuring workers in their supply chain are treated fairly. Delegates presented two new Baptist reports to the politicians: No Room: A report on domestic Lifelong friends make retirement violence services in Australian communities and The Global Neighbour Index. move together The No Room report included three practical recommendations that were highlighted in What do you do when Five years later, they all agree meetings. These were the your best friend and her that the move was the best building of a comprehensive husband decide to make decision they have ever made and national database of family could not be happier. and domestic violence support the move to retirement “There is so much to do here, services; increased investment living? For one couple, it’s like being on a cruise,” in safe, secure, and affordable the answer was simple, Suzette said. housing; and immediate join them. No worries, no responsibilities increase in funding from State and there is always help at hand if and Federal governments to we need it. address shortfalls in crisis and Lifelong friends, Helen Kingsbury Baptistcare Riverside Village short-term accommodation. and Suzette Box have always been comprises 81 apartments Baptist World Aid Australia close – they were part of each available on a lease for life Advocacy Coordinator Susy other’s wedding parties and their contractual agreement.

Lee said asking politicians to husbands became firm friends. Baptistcare Photo: help with domestic violence So when it came time to think For more information, visit Cyril and Suzette Box with Helen and Brian Kingsbury enjoy their new issues was very well received about retirement living, it wasn’t www.baptistcare.com.au life at Baptistcare Riverside Village. throughout the meetings and surprising that Helen and her their efforts were appreciated. husband, Brian, would join Suzette The Global Neighbour Index, and husband Cyril at the same produced by Baptist World Aid retirement village. Australia, assesses Australia’s Helen and Suzette had visited progress against Sustainable a number of villages in their Development Goals – with search for the perfect retirement special attention to developing living complex, but once they nation neighbours. found Baptistcare Riverside “We praised efforts in trade Village in Salter Point, the search and immigration, but made was over and the decision was urgent recommendations around soon made. carbon dioxide emissions, aid “Riverside was chosen and refugees,” Susy said. because it offered the lifestyle we “These recommendations all were searching for,” Helen said. received varied reception “We feel part of a community across the political spectrum, and can participate in as much or but the amount of work as little of the activities on offer and care involved was with complete privacy and no acknowledged and praised.” intrusion.” Susy said the experience Like Brian and Helen, was daunting for newcomers Suzette said that she and her to Converge, especially in husband, Cyril, had decided that light of recent political events, they were ready for a change including the installation of a and to start the next chapter of new Prime Minister. their lives. 6 news

DECEMBER 2018 Solar puts college on the map

Atlantis Beach Baptist as ABBC’s sustainability partner, community and honour God,” College (ABBC) has expanding the project in line he said. made history by being with the growth of the campus,” Project Director for Atlantis Nathan said. Beach Estate Jarrod Rendell, said the first school in ABBC Principal Gary Harris he was delighted that ABBC had Australia to become said the school was delighted claimed this historic achievement. 100 percent sustainable with the new off-grid solar “The college should be while being completely power system. congratulated on this solar power “We initially saved $250,000 initiative as renewable energy off-grid with a fully by deciding not to use grid will increasingly become a key functional solar power/ power when we opened part of powering our society storage system. last year, and our new solar over the coming years, and in power system will replace the turn will create exciting new The college recently engaged electricity previously generated employment opportunities for a the services of Sydney-based by onsite diesel generators.” new generation of young people,” Upstream Energy, which “The new system is Jarrod said. specialises in delivering environmentally friendly and sustainable energy solutions for will deliver major cost savings for Author – Jack Gilleece the commercial sector. our college, which we can use to According to Upstream invest in additional educational

Energy Managing Director facilities for our students over the Photo: Atlantis Beach Baptist College Nathan Begley, ABBC is the coming years.” Member for Butler Hon John Quigley, ABBC Chair Greg Holland, first school in Australia to have “Caring for our environment Principal Gary Harris and Upstream Energy Managing Director zero carbon emissions, while is another way we can serve the Nathan Begley are pleased with ABBC’s solar achievement. also being independent of the electricity grid. “Upstream’s clean energy solution for Atlantis Beach Baptist College will deliver solar electricity during daylight Child care achieves St John Safe hours, backed up by battery storage overnight, at a fixed rate for the term.” Canning Bridge Early Learning Centre, a not-for- “The annual energy profit mission of Como Baptist Church, has become consumption of the campus is the second organisation in Western Australia to be approximately 25,000kWh and the new solar and storage system accredited by St John Ambulance WA, as St John will deliver up to 32,390kWh Safe, for the second consecutive year. of sustainable energy at a substantially lower cost than what St John awards the St John Safe “We are proud to be afforded it would cost for the college to accreditation to organisations the opportunity to be a living procure a grid connection.” who demonstrate outstanding example of God’s love and to be “The system will provide preparedness and an ability to stewarding our resources in such 100 percent of the school’s respond to medical emergencies, a way that has enabled the receipt energy requirements throughout document and maintain all health of such recognition,” Canning the year. ABBC will purchase and safety records and have highly Bridge Early Learning Centre electricity from Upstream, much trained staff. Director Kim Moore said. like a typical retailer and will According to St John’s “The staff work ever so receive ownership of the asset assessor, Canning Bridge Early diligently and care for all the

at zero cost upon expiry of the Learning Centre is also the children and their safety so deeply, Photo: St John Ambulance WA power purchase agreement. highest rated St John Safe child it is great to see their hard work St John’s assessor Glenn Willan presents Kim Moore with Canning Upstream will continue to work care facility in WA. recognised.” Bridge Early Learning Centre’s St John Safe accreditation certificate.

Resourcing Christian Ministry www.bfs.org.au

DECEMBER 2018

Local Christmas events

Austin Cove Community Church Margaret River Baptist Church Carols by the Canals Carols by the Beach Saturday 15 December Monday 24 December 6pm for family fun and 7pm for Christmas carols 6.30pm Lucie Hunter Park, South Yunderup Road, South Yunderup White Elephant Café, Gnarabup Beach, Prevelly Park Free bouncy castle, face painting, petting zoo and gift. Food, coffee van and The heart and soul of Christmas in Margaret River – singing carols by the beach, ice cream truck onsite. Santa will arrive via boat. Enjoy your favourite carols. heralding the birth of the greatest gift of all time.

Busselton Baptist Church Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Community Carols by the Jetty Cooby Carols Saturday 15 December Saturday 15 December 6.30pm 5.30pm to 7.30pm 2 Recreation Lane, Busselton Hargreaves Park, Counsel Road, Coolbellup Enjoy a free sausage sizzle and some great carols in the park. Bring a chair or a blanket and join the choir sing. Dalkeith Baptist Church Family Open Air Carols Saturday 15 December Narrogin Baptist Church 6pm to 7pm Carols in the Park Dalkeith Baptist Church, 123 Waratah Avenue, Dalkeith Friday 7 December A family friendly event – includes singing Christmas carols, hearing the 7pm Christmas story and a free sausage sizzle. All are welcome. Mackie Park, Fortune Street, Narrogin Narrogin Baptist Church, in conjunction with the Christian Churches of Narrogin, are co-hosting Carols in the Park. All are welcome to come and celebrate Golden Bay Baptist Church the birth of Christ. Family friendly event with barbecue conducted by YouthCARE. Combined Community Christmas Carols Bring your own chair/blanket. No dogs please. Saturday 15 December 6pm for family fun and 7pm for Christmas carols Golden Bay Foreshore, Dampier Drive, Golden Bay North Beach Baptist Church A combined group of local churches sharing God’s good news through carols, a Let There Be Joy! play, games, food and candles. Sunday 16 December 4.30pm to 7pm for funfair and 7pm for carols Charles Riley Reserve, North Beach Gnowangerup Community Church Let there be joy this Christmas! Come along with the family and enjoy the free Community Sausage Sizzle and Carols in the Park family funfair and community carols. For more information, visit Facebook. Sunday 16 December 6pm for a 7pm start Noborach Community Playground (in case of bad weather, Waratah Christian Community Church Gnowangerup Town Hall) Port Bouvard Carols Free event. Kids craft, sausage in a bun and a drink provided. Bring a picnic rug Sunday 16 December or chair. 5pm and 7.30pm for main event Crowsnest Terrace Park, Wannanup Come along to the lawns located between Batavia Avenue and Crowsnest Terrace Katanning Baptist Church and spend some fun-filled hours enjoying entertainment for the young and young Carols by Candlelight at heart. With lots of community involvement and a dramatic retelling of the most Sunday 16 December history-shaping event of all – it will be a great night. For more information, 6pm to 9pm visit facebook.com/PortBouvardCarols Katanning Town Square, Clive Street, Katanning A fun family event starting with a free sausage sizzle and kids’ games, followed by carols service at 7.30pm. A celebration of the birth of Jesus. Yokine Baptist Church and Nollamara Church of Christ Carols by Candlelight Sunday 9 December Lakeside Baptist Church 5.30pm for free sausage sizzle and 6pm for community carols The Star, Christmas Eve Service Nollamara Church of Christ, corner of Carcoola Street and Apara Way, Nollamara Monday 24 December Traditional and new songs, fun and drama. 6pm to 7pm Lakeside Recreation Centre, corner of Farrington Road and Bibra Drive, North Lake There are many opportunities vying for our attention, yet the star led the wise men to the most important birth in the history of mankind.

Lesmurdie Baptist Church Christmas Eve Festival Monday 24 December 4.30pm to 6pm for entertainment and 6pm to 7pm for service 1 Varley Street, Lesmurdie Free childrens’ entertainment – face painting, craft activities, mobile zoo and more. Sausage sizzle, coffee and ice cream available for purchase. Followed by a family friendly carols service.

Photos: BCWA 10 news

DECEMBER 2018 Asia Bibi freed from conviction

Christian mother Asia Bibi was released from Pakistan’s death row on 31 October, after the nation’s Supreme Court reversed her 2010 conviction of blasphemy.

“Religious liberty advocates “It is deeply troubling that globally expressed jubilation and Bibi’s case even reached this level pleas that Pakistan’s military – where she almost became the protect Bibi. Meanwhile, Muslim first person in Pakistan’s history extremists reportedly began to be executed for the crime of burning tyres in the streets. blasphemy,” Dorjee said. Pakistan issued a heightened Bibi was sentenced to security alert hours in advance death by hanging in 2010 on of the announcement,” Chief charges of insulting the prophet Counsel of the American Mohammad while working in a Center for Law and Justice, field as a day labourer in 2009. Jay Sekulow said. When Bibi offered a co-worker “There are security a cup of water, the woman said precautions I’m sure being taken Bibi’s Christianity made the water in Pakistan,” Sekulow said in a ceremonially unclean. This set Facebook video before daybreak. off a chain of false accusations “It’s a complete victory. She’s related to Bibi’s beliefs and been in jail for almost nine years. backed by Muslim clerics. Bibi But she now will be returned to refused to convert to Islam and her family.” was accused of insulting the Renewed death threats prophet Muhammad.

against the court, other leaders Pakistani Christian leaders Photo: AM Syed/Shutterstock and Bibi should be taken are urging Christians in Pakistan Activists hold a banner as they shout slogans on the day of world day against the Death Penalty on 10 October 2018. seriously, advocates said. The to pray and “offer themselves to entire Christian community is public service” as Bibi is released, considered in danger in the advocacy group Open Doors USA nation that is more than has learned. 96 percent Muslim. “Let us be compassionate to “The danger for this those who mourn and suffer at Christian mother of five is not this time, and let us be prepared Eugene Peterson dies at 85 over,” the American Center for with our resources to serve this Law and Justice (ACLJ) said in nation; at a time when a blood its press release. bath could easily occur,” reported Eugene Peterson, “Rangers were deployed Open Doors. bestselling Christian around the court and other parts “Be willing to become a public author known for of the capital.” care servant, to demonstrate Her current location has God’s desire for justice, mercy The Message paraphrase not been disclosed. At least two and humility. If you are a of the Bible, died countries have offered her asylum, Pakistani and have medical skills 22 October. He was 85. CNN reported. Government or social work skills, be willing to protection is critical to Bibi’s use them. Be watchful, vigilant Pastor of Christ Our King safety, ACLJ representative, and calm.” Presbyterian Church in Bel Air, Shaheryar Gill, told Baptist Press. More than 40 people Maryland, for nearly 30 years, “She cannot be released convicted of blasphemy Peterson published more than openly,” Gill said on 23 October. are currently on death row 30 books on biblical spirituality, “If she is, there’s no doubt, no or serving life sentences pastoral theology and Christian question about it, that her life will in Pakistan, the ACLJ said. living, including his 2013 memoir be in jeopardy. They feel proud of Hundreds are serving or have The Pastor and A Long Obedience killing somebody like this.” served prison terms ranging in the Same Direction. Two government leaders from three years to ten years. Less than a week before

who advocated for Bibi’s release “Blasphemy laws directly Peterson’s death, news broke he Photo: Wikimedia Commons during her eight-year ordeal violate international law. All had been placed in hospice care Eugene Peterson, creator of The Message, had a long obedience in the were murdered in 2011, namely people have the right to freely amid struggles with dementia and same direction. Cabinet Member, Shabbaz Bhatti, choose, and live out, their faith,” congestive heart failure. and Punjab Governor, Salmaan Alliance Defending Freedom Upon his death, his family said Taseer. International Director of in a statement: “Among his final Among Baptists to react Last year, Peterson told More than 50 people accused Advocacy for Global Religious words were, ‘Let’s go.’ And his joy: to Peterson’s death, Southern Religion News Service he didn’t of blasphemy have been killed by Freedom, Kelsey Zorzi said. my, oh my; the man remained Baptists President of the Ethics think death was “anything to be angry mobs and others in Pakistan. “We therefore urge all joyful right up to his blessed and Religious Liberty Commission afraid of”. “Bibi’s case illustrates the governments to uphold this end, smiling frequently. In such Russell Moore, tweeted, “Grateful “I have no idea how it’s going to inhumanity of blasphemy laws, right by ceasing enforcement moments it’s best for all mortal to God for a long obedience in work out,” Peterson said of death. which allow the death penalty for and initiating repeal of their flesh to keep silence. But if you the same direction,” referencing “But I’m not afraid, I’ll tell you convictions in Pakistan,” Chair of blasphemy laws.” have to say something say this: Peterson’s well-known book. that. I’ve been with a lot of people the United States Commission on “Holy, holy, holy.” “Thank you Eugene Peterson.” who are dying. I think those International Religious Freedom Author – Diana Chandler “It feels fitting that his death When Peterson entered conversations are some of the (USCIRF), Tenzin Dorjee said. came on a Monday, the day of hospice care, author and best I’ve ever had”. “The case of Asia Bibi Reprinted with permission the week he always honoured speaker, Beth Moore, tweeted, “These are people who have illustrates the extent to which from Baptist Press, as a Sabbath during his years “Don’t you just sorta hope when lived a good life and who have blasphemy laws can be exploited www.baptistpress.com as a pastor. After a lifetime of Eugene Peterson finally sees embraced their faith. They’re to target minority communities,” faithful service to the church the gorgeous, glorious face of not afraid.” Dorjee said in a press release. – running the race with gusto the Saviour he has so long loved “These laws seek to protect – it is reassuring to know that and served, that Jesus is the Author – David Roach entire religions rather than the Eugene has now entered into the type that might greet him with individual, as should be the case fullness of the Kingdom of God something from The Message Reprinted with permission under international human and has been embraced by eternal translation? Like, maybe John from Baptist Press, rights standards.” Sabbath,” his family stated. 21:12? ‘Breakfast is ready.’” www.baptistpress.com news 11

DECEMBER 2018 Sulawesi tsunami appeal

Baptist World Aid Australia’s disaster specialists have taken a leadership role on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, where more than 2,000 people have died after a tsunami and earthquake struck the island in September.

Baptist World Aid Australia has been coordinating emergency relief efforts in Sulawesi and field staff have been working in the disaster zone to determine the most urgent needs of affected families. Search parties and rescue teams worked around the clock to rescue those that survived the disaster, but the organisation fears that without the provision

of relief or emergency supplies, Photo: Herwin Bahar/Shutterstock these efforts could be in vain. Palu City residents seeking temporary shelter a week after their home was destroyed during the recent tsunami and earthquake disaster. The provision of food rations, clean drinking water, shelter and healthcare is needed to minimise followers in a video update Thank you so much for the The tsunami was triggered by from the debris and rubble. The the risk of disease outbreak. on Facebook, explaining how generosity so far.” a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, destruction of local roads, major Baptist World Aid Australia 23 different Christian relief Dan Skehan explained that which in itself generated heavy seaports and airport runways has set a target of $300,000 for and development agencies over 1.5 million people have been destruction on the island. In one further complicated relief and its Sulawesi Tsunami Appeal to are seeking to work together affected by the disaster. particular area, the earthquake rescue efforts in the area. support this urgently needed to provide the best possible “Looking forward, we are caused a housing estate, home to In order to stave off the life-saving work. At the time of emergency relief in this area. certainly going to be here for 900 people, to collapse and sink spread of disease, the Indonesian printing, the organisation was “You can only imagine what the next 12 months, maybe even five metres into the ground. government gave instructions to very close to meeting the appeal trauma has gone through those longer, as we work with the More than 2,000 people have prepare for up to 1,300 victims to target, thanks to the help of its communities, and we are all still community members on the officially been declared dead, but be buried immediately. Volunteers generous supporters. trying to understand the scale island of Sulawesi to recover fully rescue workers on the ground were given the task to dig a Baptist World Aid Australia and impact of this tsunami and from this terrible event,” Dan said. believe that many more might be 100-metre-long mass grave and CEO, John Hickey and Baptist earthquake. It is huge!,” John said. In late September, tidal buried beneath the mud. fill it with hundreds of bodies World Aid Australia Manager of “This is a long-term response waves over three metres high According to The Guardian, in bags. Disaster Operations, Dan Skehan, that we need to do and we are hit Sulawesi with little warning, a lack of heavy machinery made addressed the organisation’s asking you to support this appeal. causing widespread devastation. it difficult to retrieve corpses Author – Ramona Humphreys

California’s Camp Fire: ‘It never turned daylight’

Members of Paradise and his wife Linda got the call Bivins has heard horror Ridge Southern Baptist that their granddaughter’s stories like Sorensen’s from Church have asked school was being evacuated. survivors in shelters who had to The typically 15 minute drive run and drive for their lives to Pastor Bob Sorensen turned into an hour and a half. escape the fire. if they will continue to It required five hours of driving First responders continue have a church, but not amid fire and smoke to make it search and rescue efforts, using because their building down the ridge and into safety. cadaver dogs to help find victims. “It was wall-to-wall traffic Emergency utility crews are is gone. They ask trying to get out,” Sorensen said. travelling into the area to ensure because the Camp Fire “There were flames and smoke. that electricity, propane and gas destroyed much of their It never turned daylight that day.” will not create hazards for residents community. With 59 reported deaths and when they are allowed to return. counting, the Camp Fire has For Paradise, residents are officially become the most lethal wondering what the next steps “We’ve had disasters before, and in California’s history. More than will be for their community, but we thought we would be able to 9,000 residential and commercial when people ask Pastor Sorensen just go back,” Sorensen said. structures have been destroyed. if he plans to stay, he said that “But you can’t go back.” “The fire came on so fast, decision is not his to make. While the church still stands, and it was just mass confusion,” “As long as God keeps me Sorensen’s home was destroyed Southern Baptist Disaster Relief there, I’m going to stay, because by the fire – “An amazing thing,” Director for California Baptists I know there are people who are he said. Mike Bivins said. going to need help,” he said. “I still have people from the “The roads into and out of the church who are missing that I towns of Paradise and Magalia Author – Brandon Elrod can’t find. I spend hours a day are limited.” trying to find them,” he added. “The fire seems to have Reprinted with permission

On the day the blaze trapped more people than was from Baptist Press, Photo: NASA overwhelmed Paradise, Sorensen originally figured,” he said. www.baptistpress.com The Camp Fire as seen from the Landsat 8 satellite on 8 November. 12 in conversation

DECEMBER 2018 Unlikely duo finding faith

A pastor and a pop star – not exactly a likely duo? Well it is … when you are finding faith. Finding Faith is comprised of Andrew Tierney and Tim Dunfield. From two opposite corners of the globe – Australia and Canada – Andrew and Tim found a great friendship, a unique creative connection and a deep passion for writing songs of worship together. John Igglesden caught up with the vocal and guitar duo to chat about their new project.

You have recently released an I never struggled with ‘Is there album called Finding Faith, but a God?’. I always knew that I was before we talk about that, please saved by Jesus, but I didn’t know give us a background of your what it meant to live it. Looking musical careers thus far. back on how I have lived my life, Tim: I was raised in a home I’ve never lived outside of my where there was music, so my faith, but I have never really lived parents taught me music and completely in it like I am now. I to appreciate music early on. I saw the gifts that God has given played the saxophone, began to me in my voice and music and write songs and I joined a couple wondered how I can use that to of bands and played on MTV in give back to God. Canada when I first started out. Tim: I lived in Hong Kong, I was part of a group called then Singapore and then moved Hooked and we played for House back to Canada when I was 17, so I of Blues, opened for Hall and got to experience some very cool Oates and such, so we were really understandings of who God is able to have fun and through all and that He’s not North American of that I became a Christian. I was and He’s bigger than my small a worship pastor and led multiple worldview. churches and worship teams When you hear Vietnamese which is how I met Andrew. Music people praying to God in their has always been a part of my life. language, and you hear Jordanian Andrew: I grew up with music people praying, it blows your in my family. When I was in high mind. So, for me, it’s always been school, there were only four guys this understanding that God is in the choir – me, my brother, and bigger than I am, and I think I got my two friends, Toby and Phil. lost for a little while. I formed this vocal group, doo- I walked away from God in wop stuff. At the time we called my late teens, but I never rejected ourselves The 4 Trax. We kept the Him. I just didn’t really understand name and kept performing and it so it didn’t play a part in my life, every talent quest we went in we but I always knew He was there won, which was kind of crazy. and thankfully He never let me go. I started writing songs with my brother Mike and we got a record The two of you have come deal with Sony Music. We did together and created Finding some original songs and changed Faith, would you call it a

our name to Human Nature. pop-acoustic duo? Photo: Sony Music Entertainment Australia Our first album was a massive Andrew: I think it is. It’s got success in Australia – that was soul inputs to it, but it’s got a at the beginning of my early 20s pop sensibility to it. Tim’s been a this moment – this lyric came into We eventually finished the shooting that happened in Vegas – and has been my whole career worship leader forever and I have my head and it was “The hands song and it sums up my life, Tim’s last October. I love every song on ever since. We are still together delved into the world of worship that hold the world hold my heart, life and everybody’s life. It’s the the record and the opportunity to 29 years later and performing more recently and appreciated it and the hands that heal the world simple thought to know that we play it and worship with churches in Las Vegas now. We have just for what it is. heal my heart.” are in good hands and those is something we love to do. released our 13th album. I think we have applied that It was so calming to me and hands just happen to be amazing I know God has given me this sensibility to our pop songwriting felt peaceful to me. I pulled over hands. I love that people are Now I have to ask, is Johnny gift and I need to use it wisely. It’s to make sure it’s accessible to and I called Andrew. I said I’ve got connecting to the song and I love Farnham as awesome as I think been amazing and been a part of people who want to sing in this lyric and we’ve got to write it every time I sing the song. It’s he is? my life, I’m so blessed. worship or just want to hear it as this song. As soon as he heard the been a blessing to both of us. Andrew: He is, I saw him the a worship expression. We wanted lyrics, he said, absolutely, I think other day, we did a corporate event Have you always been that nice mix on the record, so I’m starting to write it already. Now that the debut album has together and he’s such a generous Christians or does the name pop, but it has this type of acoustic Andrew: We were writing a been released, what’s next for soul. He’s so complimentary of us Finding Faith hint to a more soul to it as well. lot of songs and I heard this song, Finding Faith? Can we expect as a group and a really sweet guy, recent discovery? it’s an old Bill Withers song called more music in the future, and still singing incredibly. He’s Andrew: I would say I have The first track is called ‘Good ‘Grandma’s Hands’. I really loved possibly a tour? 70! He just blew my mind, hitting always been a Christian, I have Hands’, tell us a bit about how it and I was thinking about our Andrew: We would love to the big notes. He still has the voice. always believed in Jesus, I just that song came to be. record and I thought about Jesus’ tour. It’s been an amazing start never really got what it meant to Tim: I was the worship pastor hands and God’s hands, so I was with ‘Good Hands’. We started Finding Faith is available to live it. You define yourself as a at the church Andrew and I met writing a song about being in promoting it in the United States stream or purchase digitally on Christian because of accepting at. The church was struggling and ‘good hands’. in November. Towards the end of Spotify and iTunes or online at Jesus as your saviour in that the elders came to me and said I had been writing that song the year, we are doing some more iamfindingfaith.com moment. I’ve always had those they were not sure how long they which I thought would have a worship leading throughout Vegas Christian values in my life, but it could keep me on staff. chorus, “I’ll never walk alone, I’m and our plan is to do some shows took me, I don’t know how many I was driving home one night, in good hands” and so I thought, in Australia too. years to unpack the simplicity of and I have three kids, I’m married, “Tim, your idea could be my verse As it so happens the next song the gospel. There was a real ‘I get have a mortgage and worried because we were both writing a that we are bringing out, ‘There is it now’ moment. about all those things, and I had song about God’s hands”. Love’, is written out of the tragic growth 13

DECEMBER 2018 Something about un-deciding

I grew up with a Decision is a powerful punctuality problem. thing. One big yes can create a million little noes. Decisions In my Year 12 yearbook, bring clarity and commitment, under the ‘Famous for’ purpose and potential. These are section of my profile, all good things. But I’ve discovered that it read: “Famous for the power of un-deciding has sauntering into Periods potency as well. Not indecision, 1 … 2 … 3 … 4 … 5 … 6 … un-deciding. 7 … five minutes late.” I’ve met plenty of people who’ve told me they’re a late (So many ellipses in one person, not a morning person, sentence!) not a runner, not a good friend, hopeless with discipline, always It never felt that way. I wasn’t procrastinating or always eating sauntering; I was rushing to fit bad food. They’ll say that they are the important (and unimportant) too introverted to invite, unable things that needed to happen to have tough conversations, too between periods. Why let it wait afraid to accept an invitation, if it could be squeezed between and too old for new friends. I’ve periods? certainly said a few of those about I still remember one awkward myself. Those things can paralyse night in Year 12. you for a lifetime. The new Headmaster had I’m not suggesting that invited our entire year group to all it takes is un-deciding, but his home for dinner throughout un-deciding certainly opens the the term in batches of ten to 12. door to change. Our iron-clad It was a salubrious affair; we affirmations of immovability

dressed in our formals and used are given unnecessary power. Photo: Simon Elliott all the cutlery imaginable. Perhaps they give us comfort, I was late. Not enormously, too. Perhaps we find solace but the normal five minutes – my in our resignation because it modus operandi, it seemed. When requires little of us since we’ve I walked in at 7.35pm, everyone determined that we’re ‘lifers’ on was seated with one empty chair. some of this stuff. The one habit that changes Mine. I sat down and did my best Un-deciding unloosens those to break the ice, saying, “I’ve heard shackles of resignation. it’s fashionable to be five minutes Un-deciding carries everything for good late.” There were polite sniggers enormous possibility. It’s but mainly heads down. As dinner not accompanied with the resumed, my mate beside me resources and wherewithal to ‘Abide in Me, and I in subtly leaned over and whispered see behavioural change through you. As the branch in my ear, “You’re 35 minutes late, to its victorious destination, but cannot bear fruit of not five.” I felt the blood drain it sure makes it a conceivable from my face. proposition. One that’s back on itself, unless it abides Yep, I had pedigree. the table rather than one that can in the vine, neither can At some point, I either never be considered. you, unless you abide in resigned myself to lateness or The thought of un-deciding Me.’ [John 15:4, NKJV] grew comfortable with the notion on some things may well scare us of being ‘almost’ on time. Usually poo-less. Some of the decisions by a matter of minutes, but late we’ve made about ourselves were This passage is one of my most nonetheless. out of self-protection, fear, and favourite scriptures. Verse 4

Over the years, it cost me. I’d negative experiences. Real stuff. reflects the core teaching: abiding. Photo: A3pfamily/Shutterstock missed a race, a plane flight, a I don’t want to be glib about The word ‘abide’ occurs seven concert, and even getting to the those experiences, but locking times in these eight verses. It toilet on time. But, hey, it was just the door on innately life-giving means, make yourself at home in life. Character is only built else. When you pray, just pray! part of my personality – blame stuff for a lifetime based on in Jesus. It’s a whole new way by repeating the same things. Undistracted! ‘Watch and pray’ it on a busy life, it sounds more negative experiences, seems to be of doing life. Our fruitfulness Character is built into your life. doesn’t mean watch TV while impressive. And it wasn’t entirely giving something far more power depends on this abiding. About The best way to break a habit you’re praying, or Instagram or habitual. There were many times than it deserves. Perhaps we need 40-50 percent of what we do is to start another one in the same Facebook. Jesus said, ‘When you I showed up on time; I just had a to keep challenging ourselves everyday is instinctive; habits. area of your life. pray, shut the door’. reputation weighted on the not- about the power of un-deciding Habit creates who we are. We Character doesn’t come from We should all have a habit of so-timely side of the ledger. to open ourselves to an even live in a transient world. People experiences. Inspiration needs to prayer. A daily habit. The more we Then a funny thing bigger decision – an even used to stay in jobs longer, live morph into habit. What we give do it the more we’ll want to do it. happened. bigger ‘yes.’ in one location but now change ourselves to are our priorities, That’s what experiencing Jesus is In 1998, I joined a new By the way, I’m still a reforming keeps happening at ever faster which then develop habits which about. Prayer is communication church. I caught up at a café with ‘on-timer’ and prone to slip-ups. rates. We can lose stability and become the making or unmaking with God. It’s how we have one of the pastors and showed up I’ll attempt to go for a run, stop consistency. These are the things of our lives. friendship with Jesus. on time. sweating, make school lunches, that make character. If we give Jesus time every We agreed on a second make breakfast and coffee before God can’t just give us Prayer morning in prayer we’ll have time to meet up and, again, I getting to a 7am meeting in character. Character is built Jesus was a man of habit, more time during our day. was there a minute or so early. Leederville every second Friday. over time. prayer habit. Luke 4:16 (NKJV) Make prayer a key daily habit When he arrived for our coffee, I sometimes fail, but I like to ‘Sow a thought, and you reap describes that it was ‘His custom’ in our lives. It makes for a much he remarked, “You’re one think of my failure as more of an an act; Sow an act, and you reap to go into the synagogue on the better world. punctual guy!” aberration rather than a problem a habit; Sow a habit, and you reap Sabbath day to read. He did it I realised he didn’t know that I’m incapable of shaking! a character; Sow a character, and habitually. Jesus had predictable Author – Phil Pringle I had a problem with punctuality. you reap a destiny.’ (Samuel Smiles) patterns to His life. He rose early to He believed I was punctual. Author – Simon Elliott The definition of habit is commune with the Father Republished with permission, I decided at that moment an acquired pattern that has in prayer. www.philpringle.com to own it. If he knew no better, Republished with permission, become almost involuntary. When you’re doing one thing, surely I could un-decide myself? writesomething.org.au Habit is how you achieve things you’re not doing something 14 news

DECEMBER 2018 Worshippers gather at Exalt

On the morning of Saturday 20 October, the 2018 Exalt Lite Music Ministry Conference was held at North Beach Baptist Church. The conference consisted of a morning of learning and worship through talks, workshops and music led by the Exalt band. There were 160 people in attendance from 45 different churches.

“Our aim is to equip pastors, leaders, musicians, singers, and sound technicians to make I have left each music that builds our churches and exalts our great God and Exalt conference glorious Saviour,” Exalt Committee Chairman Matt Harding said. I have attended “One of the highlights was feeling seeing a couple of churches decide to bring their music teams encouraged to Exalt Lite, and then arrange to have a meeting to debrief on and better what people had learned and equipped to to try some new songs. That is the very spirit we want to serve at church. encourage,” he added. Matt explained that Exalt traditionally would run over a Friday night and Saturday, Students Regional Director but this year the committee Tim Thorburn and Christian opted for a shorter format songwriter Liz Gordon. called Exalt Lite. However, the Trevor’s elective focused on conference’s core principles leading worship, the practicalities

of being biblical, practical, and the rationale behind them. Photo: Exalt Music Ministry Conferences accessible, contemporary, inter- Tim discussed the biblical The Exalt Lite Conference band lead the conference attendees in worship throughout the morning. denominational, and constructive foundations of musical ministry remain the same. and explained the basis for why The morning began with God is glorified through music “Exalt Lite 2018 was an place of music in our services, Starting in 2010 in the a worship session and talk on and singing. The final elective encouraging half-day of how the Bible can encourage Hale School auditorium, Exalt Revelation 5 by St Matthew’s was led by Liz who talked through fellowship with Perth Christian us to play music with words Music Ministry Conferences Anglican Church Unichurch worship songwriting and shared musos, equipping us with the that reflect the gospel of run every two years and are a Congregational Pastor, Jeff Hunt. her experiences from many years ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ of singing Jesus, and to chat about what part of Christian Conventions He spoke about keeping Jesus of being a songwriter in a Christian in church,” Exalt Lite attendee is happening musically in of Western Australia (CCOWA). the focus of singing. Attendees context. Worship sessions were Hannah added. different churches,” Exalt Lite CCOWA is also responsible were also introduced to Music held between each session of the “We gather together as attendee John described. for Perth Children’s Ministry Pastor of EV Church Trevor Hodge, conference to not only worship the body of Christ, and the The Exalt Music Ministry Convention, Perth Men’s who discussed more practical God, but to put into practice the conference was an awesome Conference Committee Convention, Perth Women’s ways to glorify God through teachings of the morning. and instructive reminder that currently consists of Liz Gordon, Convention, and CREDO. congregational music and singing. “I have left each Exalt we need to keep Him central in Matt Harding, Adam Long, The group was then offered conference I have attended singing too.” Verity McNamara, Sam Rae and For more information, the choice of three music related feeling encouraged and better “It was terrific to bring Kath Thornhill, with Liz, Matt, visit exalt.org.au electives led by Trevor, Australian equipped to serve at church,” together musicians from across Sam and Jeff being founding Fellowship of Evangelical Exalt Lite attendee Andrew said. Perth to meet and discuss the members. Author – John Igglesden

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The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia by imageseven. Tel: (08) 6500 7777 Email: [email protected] Aberline Attwood Moses Lee Chris Bongers Jacinta Patterson Ree Eccles Cath Royce Ruth Friend Rebecca Simmons Susan Lansdown Kate Witcombe imageseven bcw J3974 bcw imageseven intermission 15

DECEMBER 2018

watch

The Star of Christmas VeggieTales It is a noble desire to want to show people how to love each other more and this is at the heart of The Star of Christmas. However, it is important not to get lost in seeking glory along the way and truly seek the best for others. In The Star of Christmas, follow two different stories where things get a little lost in the middle of best intentions. Then watch how God brings about the revelation of the real Star of Christmas with the wonderful VeggieTales characters. The DVD also comes with extra features including interactive storybook The Toy That Saved Christmas and sing-alongs to give a variety of enjoyment. Photo: Hillsong Hillsong Young and Free are Hillsong’s youth worship band. listen New Hillsong Young

and Free album Peace on Earth Casting Crowns Peace on Earth has traditional style On 2 November, Hillsong’s live versions of past Young and Free hits, Christmas carols with Casting Crowns’ Young and Free released the live ‘Wake’ and ‘Sinking Deep’. amazing blend of vocals. Casting version of their third album, III The album also features Hillsong Crowns have done justice to the UNITED frontman Joel Houston and tradition of songs such as ‘Joy to the (Live at Hillsong Conference). Hillsong Worship singer Brooke Ligertwood. World’, ‘God is With Us’ and ‘O Come Singer, songwriter and worship leader All Ye Faithful’. A great album to have The album was recorded live at Hillsong Chris Tomlin also joined Young and Free on playing in the background on and Conference 2018 and includes live versions stage for a special live version of their song, around Christmas Day to bring the true of songs like ‘Love Won’t Let Me Down’, ‘Let ‘Heart of God’. meaning of Christmas into focus. Go’ and ‘Every Little Thing’. III (Live at Hillsong Conference) is III (Live at Hillsong Conference) is the available for purchase and digital download first live arena recording for Young and at hillsongstore.com.au Free, featuring all the tracks from the studio album version, as well as two bonus Author – John Igglesden read

A Very Different Christmas Rico Tice and Nate Morgan Locke For most of my life I have loved Christmas but there have been seasons where I just wanted to cancel Christmas due to lack of interest. Rico Tice and Nate Morgan Locke put it like this, “For some, though, Christmas Day isn’t about panicked shopping or tricky diplomacy. It’s about quiet disappointment, or even desperation. To quote Charles Dickens, Christmas is both the best of times and the worst of times. It’s a time of joy and loneliness, of excitement and despair, often This voucher entitles you to within the same family and even in the same heart.” This pertinent paragraph from 15% off your next purchase in chapter one is so very true and I challenge The Advocate readers to read this small but impacting book and see Christmas store at Mount Lawley differently this year. What is in a present? So much more than ever thought possible. The Advocate – December 2018

Reviews by Koorong Mount Lawley Assistant Manager Dorothy Waddingham Website: www.koorong.com Address: 434 Lord Street, Mount Lawley Phone: 08 9427 9777 16 sport

DECEMBER 2018 Successful SportsFest changes

Baptist Churches Western Australia’s SportsFest undertook a change in 2018, kicking off the year with a revamped look that included a new website. Participants went back in time to the 90s as they welcomed five new church teams: 1Church, Paradox, Mount Pleasant Baptist, The Salvation Army and Westminster Presbyterian.

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Young Adults Pastor Jonathan Anthony attended for his first time. He described it as an ... it was a amazing weekend, even though blessing to be he was only two hours into his first sport before he ended up in able to put on the emergency department with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. this incredible “It was all worth it to see our event with the young adults having such an incredible time,” Jonathan said. help of so

Baptist Churches Western Photo: BCWA Australia Events Coordinator many generous Participants from Baptist churches across WA took part in the 2018 SportsFest, participating in a range of Jess Ford said it is always a joy volunteers ... sports, including mixed netball. to walk through the various venues, hearing staff members say that this is their favourite event of the year and they love having all the teams come and use their facilities. pastors to follow up participants’ Pastor helps bring disc “They love the atmosphere life-changing commitments and the attitude of our teams – made that evening on the Sunday what a great testament to our and Monday. golf to Tom Price churches,” Jess said. “We had over 70 new Jess also said that it was a commitments over the weekend blessing to be able to put on this and I’m sure the weekend has A brand new disc golf and is set amongst eucalypts and incredible event with the help of promoted and set people in course has opened has a subtle elevation change, so many generous volunteers. motion for future commitments in Tom Price, due in creating a challenging course “Through their untiring to come,” Jess said. for beginners. support, we can provide a “SportsFest 2019 is not to large part to Tom Price “I didn’t want to create ministry event for youth and be missed.” Baptist Church Pastor another club – I wanted to create young adults from various “If you’re too old to compete, and disc golf enthusiast, something that anyone can go churches,” she said. you’re always welcome to sign up Gavin Douglas. to at any time during the day,” “They can come together to as a volunteer with your church Gavin said. compete, learn more about Jesus, team – volunteers are a huge part Gavin spent a number of years “It’s free to use and free to try new sports and activities and of this event being such a success.” lobbying the local council to play. Just rock up to the park and meet other fellow Baptists along install the course in the township throw a disc.” the way.” For more information, visit of 4,000, and in late September, “What I love about disc golf Another change that took www.sportsfest.org.au courses were opened in Tom and my faith is that both support place at the 2018 event was the Price and Paraburdoo, making community engagement.“ move of the evening service from the Shire of Ashburton the first “It’s a way of connecting with Sunday to Saturday. This enabled remote mining town to embrace people. You stroll along and talk

a larger number of participants the sport. about life together.” Photo: Shire Ashburton of to take part in the service. It also The nine-hole Tom Price Pastor Gavin Douglas handing a allowed church coordinators and course is located at Minna Oval Author – Matt Chapman disc to Cameron Howe.

ENROL NOW FOR

SEMESTER 1, 2019 “I know the plans I have Whether your future is in Ministry, for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and Theology, Chaplaincy, Mission, not to harm you, plans to Education or Leadership, Vose give you hope and a future.” Jer 29:11 has a pathway for you.

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