Local MP worships at Tottenham

n 23 June, Tottenham Church held a special recognition service in which they paid tribute to members of the Ochurch and the community. Among the dignitaries present were representatives from the local fire and police services and a number of community leaders. David Lammy, local MP, paid tribute to the church and charged everyone to continue the good work being done. He commented on the warmth of the church and recognised its value as a good place for young people to learn right from wrong. He mentioned five things necessary to build any successful family or church: education, employment, parenting, aspiration and community. He presented awards and posed for photos with those who received them. In his sermon, Pastor Perry encouraged the church to say ‘thank you’ to all the unseen heroes that are a part of our lives, but also pointed out that, although we may not always be thanked here on Earth, there is a reward for us in Heaven. All of this, combined with parading Pathfinders and good music, made the day a great success. COMMUNICATION TEAM 2 editorial 3

Fancy being published? ‘Murray, Murray, Murray . . .’. Centre court This macro picture of a spotted long - throbbed. Wimbledon has echoed loudly for horn beetle was taken by decades, but never like this. The crowd factor Whitnell Anderson. Andy was serving for the match of his life Julian Hibbert Editor Please keep M– for Olympic gold and this country’s honour! sending in your photos Powerful first serves, deft backhand top for Megapixels of creation . spinners and forceful passing shots spiced Pictures of nature – landscapes, his play. But it wasn’t just about technique: wildlife, close-ups. You never know Andy’s demeanour was tangibly different – he your luck, you may get in print. had a winner’s composure. Send them in to me at: ‘Murray, Murray, Murray . . .’. ‘Crowd Someone had recognised me . Somebody was cheering me on. Immediately I sat high in the [email protected] . noise’ reached deafening peaks in that last saddle. Waved my gloved hand. Punched the air. Shouted back my thanks. Then pushed the game – around 140 decibels – the sound of a pedals with renewed vigour! Just remember to keep them jetliner passing low overhead. ‘hi-res’. Happy snapping! Then Murray aced his last serve . . . and Paul knew about it too DAVID BELL, MESSENGER DESIGNER the crowd won Olympic gold with their The Apostle Paul must have attended Greek athletic contests before he met Jesus for they ‘ had cheers! long been popular throughout the Mediterranean world, and the illustration of chapter 12:1 would be familiar to every reader .’ 4 The ‘crowd factor’ From his comments in Hebrews 12:1-2 ( NIV ), it is quite obvious that he also understood To see more of your images, Almost to a medallist, those who mounted the the power of the ‘crowd factor’: ‘ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of go to: http://adventistwebministries-org- podium for Team GB marvelled at the crowd witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let uk.adventist.eu/megapixels support during the London 2012 Olympics. us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and Journalists called it the ‘crowd factor’, and perfecter of faith .’ although it was reputedly loudest in the The ‘cloud’ of witnesses can also Velodrome, those involved in the track and be translated as ‘host of witnesses’ 5 – ‘Go, Jules! field events felt it too. Mo Farah, winner of the in other words, a large crowd. The Go, Jules, 10,000 metre men’s gold, described the Seventh-day Adventist Bible go!’ • Those who said Sabbath relieved tensions and promoted ‘crowd factor’ during this race as simply Commentary pictures the ‘ athlete feelings of calm and peace reported better mental ‘unbelievable’ .1 making final preparations to run a health. Jamie Doward of The Observer called it race in an ancient stadium, with the • Religious individuals have fewer negative emotions. ‘the performance-enhancing substance that spectators seated on benches rising • Those who experienced an abusive home have will never show up in a random drug test’ .2 tier above tier on all sides .’ 6 From his more negative emotions. Those negative emotions Beautifully phrased, Jamie! crouching perspective they must have predict worse physical health. Jessica Ennis also recognised the power of seemed like a ‘cloud’. • Divorced individuals had more depressive symptoms this intangible force when she ‘credited the than non-divorced individuals, but divorced stadium’s 80,000 spectators with a personal The crowd individuals who used positive religious coping best in the 200m. “Having this crowd behind The ‘race’ is the Christian life. We are had fewer depressive symptoms than those everyone makes all the difference ,” she said .’ 3 the athletes. Who makes up the crowd? who did not. Well, Paul had just finished telling us The three types of positive religious coping ‘Go, Jules! Go, Jules, go!’ about the crowd in Hebrews 11. They Golden eight – part 8b that were inversely associated with During our 12-year sojourn in beautiful Cape form a shortlist of the Bible’s men and depressive symptoms are: Town I became an enthusiastic (but very women of faith. People whose lives cry Trust in God mediocre) recreational cyclist. For eight of out loudly: ‘ We ran too. We took wrong Collaborative religious coping : defined as forming a problem-solving those years I participated in the annual Argus turns. We struggled, stumbled and fell The Adventist impact relationship with God. Respondents identified a caring and powerful Cycle Tour – 105 kilometres of sun and wind often. We were cut and bruised by life’s The world-renowned Studies are long-term studies God active in their individual lives. shared by thousands of cyclists. hurdles – and often out of breath! But involving Seventh-day Adventists, which explore the links between their Benevolent religious reappraisals : problems are reinterpreted as part The tour doubled during that time from we ran on regardless . . . and by God’s lifestyle, and incidence of . It is not surprising, then, that of a divine plan or as an opportunity for growth. 15,000 to 30,000 cyclists, but my best time grace we crossed the line !’ the faith aspects of have caught the interest of scientists Seeking spiritual comfort from God : defined as engaging God through never improved beyond 04:15:37, an average There is someone in that crowd who and become a topic of study for several years. prayer or other devotional practices. of 24.65 kilometres per hour. is chanting your name. Maybe more Presently, more than 96,000 church members from the US and I never fell off, except once while still in the than one! Open your Bible and listen. Canada are participating in Adventist Health Study-2 , being conducted Other research findings from non-religious healthcare providers stalls – before the starting gun! Had a few You may feel drained. Spiritually by researchers at the School of Public Health. In are now acknowledging the relationship between spirituality and health punctures. Drank countless litres of water and exhausted, unable to take another step previous research studies on Adventists, lower levels of stress were outcomes. energy drink. But never pushed my bike! towards the Kingdom. But before you linked to their strong faith in God, active religious lifestyle and close In a study on spirituality and health, Harvard professor Anne Those races were my first taste of the give up, just listen to the ‘crowd noise’ community spirit . (www.adventisthealthcare.com .) Harrington argues that spirituality is important to health because of the ‘crowd factor’. Spectators lined the route and again – someone from deep in God’s Now, however, in a recent study titled Adventist Religion and Health following: cheered us along. They sprayed us with water Word is calling your name and Study (2006 – present day) , the spiritual impact of the Adventist faith from their garden hoses to cool us down. shouting: ‘Read my story . . . if I could on health is being examined in more detail. • It promotes a healthy lifestyle and provides good community Helped to fix punctures and give first aid for finish, so can you!’ Here are some preliminary findings from the current study: • Contemplative practices reduce stress those who tangled with the tar! • Belief is a healing power (Harrington, 2004).* During one of these tours I had a http://www.llu.edu/public-health/health/adventist-religion-health.page . 1http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/ remarkable ‘performance-enhancing’ olympicsvideo/9454401/Mo-Farah-The-crowd-was- • The advantage Adventists have over non-Adventists in regard to *Harrington, A. (2004) The Four Arguments. Spirituality and Health , February 2004, experience. While wearily grinding up one unbelievable-during-10000-metres-Olympic-final.html pp. 46-51. of the numerous heartbreak hills, I heard a 2http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/aug/05/team- mental health is greater in older age groups than in younger ones. gb-medallists-credit-home-crowd 3Ibid 4Seventh-day • Individuals who engaged in secular activities on Sabbath had poorer bellow from the crowd: ‘ Go, Jules! Go, Jules, Adventist Bible Commentary , volume 7, page 480 reported physical health. Keep the faith! go !’ 5Ibid 6Ibid 4 5 simply react to what life throws at us, making celebrations would we have up our route as we go along, or do we set a had without clear and intense devotional deliberate course for our journey through life. planning? issues We plan for holidays, birthdays, Christmas We need objectives to give us and so on – how much more should we make purpose, direction and a sense of a conscious effort to steer our lives in a par - progress as we achieve them in ticular direction! If you don’t set an objective, our home lives, our work lives King Canute goes your life will lack direction and purpose. Can and our spiritual lives. Can you you imagine the festivities of Christmas with - imagine a household without out some forethought, planning and prior some sort of cohesive planning action? Or a holiday without any preparation? and direction? The cupboards When do we leave? Where are we going? would be bare, the garden a to church How will we get there? What sort of jubilee jungle, and the people would be strangers to each other. Or can by Victor Hulbert you imagine a company without a common purpose, objectives ing Canute was a religious man, so if alive – from the Sabbath School lesson to commentaries What’s and a plan of how to achieve today rather than in 1016 he would quite and Strong’s Concordance . It may be that a ‘church those objectives? Again, the probably turn up in church. Yet Canute is finder app’ is what got me to church in the first people in the company wouldn’t Kremembered in the history books for only place. Can those apps be a help or a hindrance know what they were trying to one thing: setting his throne on the seashore and to confirm or explain more fully what the preacher is do, where they were headed and defying the waves to come in. It was a battle he saying? how they intended to get there. clearly and intentionally lost, trying to teach his I guess I could wait until I get home, but in the your plan? A home or business without courtiers a lesson on flattery and good advice: modern world learning is often undertaken in a purpose or direction will only ‘Let all men know how empty and worthless is the mixed environment of lecture and technology. Trying by Stuart Sly achieve a fraction of its power of kings. For there is none worthy of the to keep that technology out of church is much the potential and, likewise, an name but God, whom heaven, earth and sea obey.’ same as trying to keep the tide from coming in. It is individual with no spiritual If Canute came to church today his battle might a battle that King Canute – and most of our pastors direction in life has little not be with the sea but with technology. What – would lose. ‘As they approached Jerusalem and came to the donkey and the colt in the right hope of growth in that should or should not be allowed in church? I took That is the interesting dilemma that Pastor Jeff Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus place at the right time. But one wonders respect. a laptop into church for the first time in 1998. It Couzins recently raised in his MESSENGER article, ‘To sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go to the where they begin to organise such a royal Without an objective horrified some of the members but they quickly got Tweet or not to Tweet?’ (22 June, p 9). One visiting village ahead of you, and at once you will find celebration – the generation of ideas, the sift - there is no purpose. engaged when they found the sermon coming more preacher recently sat in a Sabbath School class and Aa donkey tied there, with her colt by her. ing of options, the sequencing, the timing, the Without a dream alive by the use of PowerPoint. Go back to the days decried the fact that nobody had their Bibles out – Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone security – the planning for the jubilee must there is no passion of our Adventist pioneers and the most technology until he realised they all had their phones out with says anything to you, say that the Lord needs have seemed endless. for better things. they might have used would have been a Millerite Bible apps open. Yet, equally, I have sat in church them, and he will send them right away.” This At his brother’s funeral, Senator Edward And without chart of Nebuchadnezzar’s image and the beasts of and watched an adult near to me openly playing a took place to fulfil what was spoken through Kennedy quoted a remark John F. Kennedy direction in life, Daniel and Revelation. No PA system. No projectors. game during the sermon. Quite why was he there? the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion,‘See, had made a few months before his those better Few visual aids. Simply a Bible. So do we legislate or educate and engage ? The your king comes to you, gentle and riding on assassination: ‘Some men see things as things remain Today, I still carry a Bible to church, but my technology is there. People have it and they will use a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’ they are and ask, “Why?” I dream of just a dream smartphone is full of apps that help with Bible study it. Perhaps the challenge of the preacher is to ” The disciples went and did as Jesus had things that never were and say, “Why and the ‘Why involve the congregation in such a way as to use instructed them. They brought the donkey and not?” The world needs idea generators, King Canute could not stop the waves lapping the technology positively. There are pastors who am I here?’ around his feet, yet today he would the colt and placed their cloaks on them for because without them there would be question remains probably have a smartphone in his encourage the congregation to tweet questions Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread no plans for a better future.’ unanswered. The hand telling him the tide times while they are preaching. It is a different form their cloaks on the road, while others cut The story is told that one day John declaration: ‘Where there while he tweeted his message of interaction but it certainly works for streamed branches from the trees and spread them on D. Rockefeller popped his head into is no vision, the people to the world. programmes like Newbold church’s Moor Close the road. The crowds that went ahead of him one of his offices, surprising the perish’ is true in many Talks . It may even mean that the pastor may get and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to bookkeeper who sat hunched over his ways. Don’t let life more interaction from his teens than a muted the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes books. ‘Get your feet off the floor and up on sweep you along like a ‘Happy Sabbath’ at the church door. in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the your desk!’ commanded Rockefeller. ‘Lean leaf floating down a Smartphones are undoubtedly a distraction in highest heaven!” When Jesus entered back in your chair and start dreaming!’ stream; take time out many areas of life – not just church. But they are Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and Completely astonished by such an order to create a definite also a positive benefit. Used wisely, and to engage asked, “Who is this?” The crowds answered, coming from his boss, the bookkeeper plan, and then plan to with the congregation, they can also be a blessing. “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in wondered what in the world he was getting follow that course King Canute could not stop the waves lapping Galilee.” ’ (Matthew 21:1-11, NIV-UK .) at. But when Rockefeller repeated his with determination. around his feet, yet today he would probably have a order, he gingerly swung his feet up May our home smartphone in his hand telling him the tide times I’m sure most of us will have seen one or onto the desk, leaned back in his lives and our work while he tweeted his message to the world. two triumphal entries (or exits) over the past chair and asked politely, ‘What do lives reflect a six months. Besides the London Olympics, you want me to dream about?’ definite life plan – Here is a recent photo there has been a considerable amount of Rockefeller’s terse answer was: and may that Wedding announcement of Andrew and Julia media coverage of the nation’s celebrations ‘Dream about how to make plan include Andrew and Julia. Andrew Puckering, our MESSENGER supplied by his of our Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, with all the money for the Standard Oil spreading the proofreader, will have entered the blissful state of ‘holy mother. pomp and majesty that has gone with it. Of Company. From now on, this is good news of matrimony’ by the time you read this. He and his bride, Julia all the royal family, she is the one who retains your job!’ the Gospel to Sabãu, were due to be married in Romania on 19 August. the greatest respect of the nation for the What do you dream of the people of Along with you, our loyal readers, we wish the Puckerings way she has conducted herself over the past concerning your future? What’s your this nation. God’s richest blessings upon their relationship, and much sixty years. It was interesting to hear the plan? Hopefully, it’s more than happiness in the years to come. commentators talk of all the planning that Rockefeller’s preoccupation with Unfortunately, we cannot comply strictly with the went into the jubilee events, some of them making extra money. Or does life keep you so injunction in Deuteronomy 24:5 ( NIV-UK ) that Andrew be taking up to three years of diligent work to busy that you don’t have time, as it were, to given a year off ‘to stay at home and bring happiness to the achieve. dream? Do you take it as it comes and, like a wife he has married’, but we are giving him a break from his For the triumphal entry of Jesus into leaf carried downstream by the current, sim - Berean Column to get married and have a brief honeymoon! Jerusalem there also had to be preparation – ply wait and see where life takes you? Do we EDITOR 6 7 The response a people who believed in this Sabbath, and to subscribe to the peace by refraining from White’s counsel with respect I truly believe, as a Seventh-day ‘heresy’ of soul immortality and Sunday observance or forfeit work that gives offense, doing at to Christmas trees, which are perspective Adventist, that we should not separation at death. their freedom and their lives. But the same time a work of the clearly non-biblical and pagan in inbox associate with paganism in either I cannot speak for the South the time for this has not yet highest importance . (178.2.) origin and yet she wrote: symbols or rituals, and yet many England Conference, but in all my come, for the truth must be When we devote Sunday to In every church let your of us wear wedding rings, dealings with their leadership presented more fully before the missionary work, the whip will be smaller offerings be placed upon Dear Editor which I understand were a pagan over the past twelve months people as a witness . . . . (177.3.) taken out of the hands of the your Christmas tree. Let the I totally agree with the sentiments custom, and there is no biblical since assuming office, it is my The light that I have is that arbitrary zealots who would be precious emblem, ‘ever green,’ expressed by Pastor Sweeney command for them – but we use understanding that they wanted God’s servants should go quietly well pleased to humiliate suggest the holy work of God in the BUC News, no. 791, them in our church-sanctioned to use the Olympics as an to work, preaching the grand, Seventh-day Adventists. . . . and his beneficence to us; and 10 August. A president’s ceremonies. opportunity to witness to the precious truths of the Bible – (178.3.) the loving heart-work will be to I think it is rather sad, I will be attending the funeral assembled throng. I would hope Christ and Him crucified. His love Sunday can be used for save other souls who are in however, that he had to spend of a close relative in a few days’ that no article in MESSENGER was and infinite sacrifice – showing carrying forward various lines of darkness. Let your works be in valuable time writing a reply to time and flowers will be placed written to endorse the Olympics that the reason why Christ died work that will accomplish much accordance with your faith. I what is, I believe, a narrow- on the grave. Your letter spurred and its pagan themes, but rather is because the law of God is for the Lord. On this day open-air heard Eld. Butler read a touching minded view that some church perspective me on to research this practice. I to show how many members immutable, unchangeable, meetings and cottage meetings letter a few days since from Eld. members seem to have. The have since discovered that it was have engaged with the public to eternal. The Sabbath must be can be held. House-to-house Whitney, of . The good response throughout the country introduced as a way to appease point them to Christ. taught in a decided manner, but work can be done. Those who work is going forward there, but to the Olympic phenomenon has Some members have written to the BUC the spirits of the dead! I was reminded of something be cautious how you deal with write can devote this day to it ought to have been done six been so positive, with people president, Pastor Ian Sweeney, expressing I was recently informed about by Ellen G. White regarding our the idol Sunday. A word to the writing their articles. Whenever years ago. Let not this work be seeing something good to focus their concerns regarding articles and certain pagan symbols in use on attitude – as Sabbath keepers – wise is sufficient . . . . (177.4.) it is possible, let religious hindered. Let it advance. If all, on for a change. news coverage about the London Olympics money. The US dollar note, for towards Sunday. In the book Refraining from work on services be held on Sunday . both old and young, will forego The churches in the SEC that appeared in MESSENGER and online in instance, displays an eye over a Maranatha we find the following Sunday is not receiving the Make these meetings intensely giving presents to one another, have been able to use the event the BUC News. pyramid. So in all seriousness, I admonition from her, which I mark of the beast; and where interesting. Sing genuine revival and forego the selfish outlay of to witness in all sorts of ways. We thought that his thoughtful response ask myself the question, Should I have quoted at length to give its this will advance the interests hymns, and speak with power means in these coming holidays, Who knows what good has to one of the correspondents deserved to refrain from using or holding US context: of the work, it should be done. and assurance of the Saviour’s there would be in heaven a most been done? We have so much appear in MESSENGER in an edited format. currency when necessity We should not go out of our love. Speak on temperance and precious record of self-denial for negativity in the news media. demands that I travel there? Chapter 169 – Wisdom Needed way to work on Sunday . . . . on true religious experience. You Christ’s sake . (RH, 9 December, What’s so wrong with seeing In the Seventh-day Adventist by Sabbathkeepers (177.5.) will thus learn much about how 1884, par. 9.) happiness expressed? The concern connected to a pagan nation that Students’ Source Book we read ‘Behold, I send you forth as When those who hear and see to work, and will reach many Ellen White was not saying we RAY MORRIS The issue is summarised as worshipped gods that really were that the names of the days of the sheep in the midst of wolves: be the light on the Sabbath take souls . . . . (178.4.) should have Christmas trees for follows, with a quote from one no gods at all, is it then bad, or week that we use in English were ye therefore wise as serpents, their stand upon the truth to keep The law for the observance of the sake of their decorative value, Dear Editor of those who wrote to Pastor even SIN, for a Christian to derived from the Saxons, who and harmless as doves.’ God’s holy day, difficulties will the first day of the week is the but rather as an opportunity to At the entrance to my vet’s Sweeney: participate in or even watch the used them to give honour to their Matthew 10:16 (Maranatha , arise; for efforts will be brought production of an apostate highlight the importance of surgery is a notice: ‘Do not use ‘As the original games were Olympics ?’ own deities: 177.1). to bear against them to compel Christendom. Sunday is a child mission in self-sacrifice, and so mobile phones beyond this men and women to transgress of the Papacy, exalted by the money should be placed upon point.’ Why? The simple answer the law of God. Here they must Christian world above the the Christmas tree for that is that they will interfere with Day Latin Meaning stand firm, that they will not sacred day of God’s rest. In no purpose. the electrical equipment in the Sunday Dies Solis Sun’s day violate the law of God; and if the case are God’s people to pay it Once again, I would like to surgery. Monday Dies Lunae Moon’s day opposition and persecution are homage. But I wish them to thank you for your email. It When we enter church, determinedly kept up, let them understand that they are not seems to me that the facts whether it be a cathedral-like Tuesday Dies Martis Tiw’s day heed the words of Christ: ‘When doing God’s will by braving behind the pagan origin of the building or a humble barn-like Wednesday Dies Mercurii Woden’s day they persecute you in this city, opposition when He wishes Olympics are indisputable. I structure or even a hired room, Thursday Dies Jovis Thor’s day flee ye into another.’ (177.6.) them to avoid it. (178.5.) suppose my challenge on a we go to worship God, to sing Wonderful scenes are personal level, as well as that of praises, to listen to His Word. A Friday Dies Veneris Frigg’s day Chapter 170 – Sunday opening before us; and at this a leader, is where do I draw the congregation usually consists of Saturday Dies Saturni Seterne’s day Missionary Work time a living testimony is to be line? I want to avoid pagan people of all ages and different ‘Preach the word, be urgent in borne in the lives of God’s connections, and yet they seem backgrounds. Nothing should season and out of season, professed people, so that the all-encompassing. occur that would hinder the Please understand that I am When the practices of the convince, rebuke, and exhort, world may see that in this age, You asked the very important blessings available to those not trying to be clever or smart, people do not come in conflict be unfailing in patience and when evil reigns on every side, question, ‘ Where do I stand ?’ My present. The use of mobile but I am asking myself the with the law of God, you may in teaching.’ 2 Timothy 4:2, there is yet a people who are answer is that I stand for using phones to tweet or play games is question: ‘ Should I refrain from conform to them. If the workers RSV. (178.1.) laying aside their will and are every opportunity to proclaim best left to after the service, and using the English names of the fail to do this, they will not only To defy the Sunday laws seeking to do God’s will – a the gospel message to a largely this applies as much to older folk week in full knowledge of their hinder their own work, but they will but strengthen in their people in whose hearts and lives ignorant world. If this should as to our younger members. . . . pagan antecedents ?’ will place stumbling blocks in the persecution the religious zealots God’s law is written . (178.6.) not have been done during the AUDREY FULLAM Some years ago, when I way of those for whom they who are seeking to enforce Please forgive my highlighting Olympics, then I will seek God’s was preparing a new set of evan - labour, and hinder them from them. Give them no occasion to of certain sections above. forgiveness and, as always, I gelistic sermons, I decided that I accepting the truth. On call you lawbreakers. If they are However, I seem to see a seek His guidance. would preach exegetically, using Sunday there is the very best left to rein up men who fear principle that Ellen White is the words of Jesus as recorded opportunity for those who are neither God nor man, the reining working with and it is this: Blessings, in the gospels. When it came to missionaries to hold Sunday up will soon lose its novelty for we should use opportunities to Ian Sweeney preaching on the subject of the schools, and come to the them, and they will see that it is witness, such as having church state of the dead, I used the people in the simplest manner not consistent nor convenient for services/evangelistic meetings somewhat problematic parable possible, telling them of the them to be strict in regard to the regularly on a Sunday. This is Thank you that Jesus told of the rich man love of Jesus for sinners, and observance of Sunday. Keep right not to ascribe any sacredness The principal of the Adventist and the beggar, Lazarus ( Luke educating them in the on with your missionary work, to Sunday, but to use the Discovery Centre acknowl - 16:19-31 ). Scriptures . . . . (177.2.) with your Bibles in your hands, opportunity. Clearly, Jesus was not At present Sunday-keeping is and the enemy will see that he I may be incorrect in drawing edges with sincere thanks an teaching that at death a person’s not the test. The time will come has worsted his own cause. One this principle from the quotations anonymous donation of £100 soul went to either Heaven or when men will not only forbid does not receive the mark of the above, but I am still on the road for the ‘Gift Bible’ project, hell, but I understand that Jesus Sunday work, but they will try to beast because he shows that he of learning. I also seem to received in August. was seeking to convey a truth to force men to labour on the realizes the wisdom of keeping observe this principle in Ellen 8 9 We asked God to show us This went on for several adjoining room to discuss the and then the men eat together There have been a few more an attractive and comfortable who was searching for Him, months and Sean was slowly matter and then gave their when they return from the burial. baptisms since then and there centre to which members feature even if they didn’t know what accepted as a member of this approval. Sean and I were surprised and are sometimes close to twenty will want to invite their they were looking for. Since we close-knit circle. Questions about Sean’s prayer was simple. He honoured to have a place people worshipping together on friends. would be investing a significant Sean’s faith often came up. They held the old imam’s hand and reserved for us at the family table Sabbath in our living room. amount of time and energy into didn’t know into which category asked God to grant him rest and at both dinners. In fact, Mustafa We have decided to build a our friendships, we wouldn’t Adventism fell, but they thought it comfort. Immediately, the imam had reserved the place at his public meetinghouse – a church Ancient be able to spread ourselves too must be close to Islam, because became silent. The brothers right side – the place of honour – building just outside our city. Our thinly. We needed God to direct Sean didn’t drink alcohol like the rushed to their father’s side, for Sean. members and even a few visitors us to the people in whom He had Christians they knew. When he pushing Sean out of their way. have volunteered the labour. This already been working. revealed that he also didn’t eat We were worried. Had the imam Mustafa makes a decision will certainly enhance the feeling Including brief comments pork, they became even more died at the moment a Christian One evening, months later, that this is their church – an methods bring about God or spiritual topics in convinced. Mustafa’s father, the had prayed for him, it would have Mustafa and his wife asked us Albanian church. It will also give our conversations with them imam, was very warm and been tragic timing. But very to meet them at a restaurant, as added status to the Seventh-day encouraged them to think more accepting of us. He told Mustafa soon, one of the brothers they had something to discuss Adventist Church in this region. deeply about spiritual matters and that the Adventists have loving exclaimed that he was alive and with us. It didn’t take long for We have raised nearly enough question us further about Him. hearts and that was the most his breathing was normal. We Mustafa to get to the point. ‘I funds to purchase a suitable plot success This approach didn’t turn them important quality in any kind of breathed a sigh of relief and went know that you are on God’s road, of land and we are confident that by Brenda Mays off or cause them to feel like true believer. home. The next day, Mustafa and I want to walk beside you on God will provide a way to build hunted prey. They knew that we One day, Mustafa’s son came called to let us know that his that road.’ He asked Sean to would still care about them as running to the bazaar to call his father had passed away in the teach him the Bible and pray with wo years before we we arrived. Instead, we set out friends, even if they never father to the hospital. They had night. ‘He was able to sleep him each morning. After some landed in Albania as to understand their hearts. We accepted our beliefs. This has found the imam on the floor, peacefully after your prayer, and time, Mustafa and his wife, son missionaries for Adventist studied their history, culture, felt freed many of them to question conscious but unable to speak or we are so grateful to God for and daughter decided to accept TFrontier Missions (AFM), needs and worldview but, most what they believe, rather than move. Sean went to comfort his that.’ Jesus as their Lord and Saviour God had put the people of this importantly, we spent time putting them on the defensive. friend at the hospital and asked The funeral was held that very and they were baptised in a little country on our hearts. We listening to them, genuinely Most of our new friends turned Mustafa if he could pray for his day. It is Albanian tradition to nearby river. Since then, Mustafa prayed for the people who sympathising with them and out to be Muslim, with varying father who had had a massive have a meal together after the has become a deacon in the had suffered under the brutal getting to know them as our levels of secularisation. We also stroke. Mustafa agreed. After that burial. In stricter Muslim families, church and has begun to share dictatorship of Enver Hoxha for close friends. have several Orthodox friends. prayer, the old imam managed to the women don’t go to the burial Jesus with his friends and nearly five decades. He had We didn’t go door-to-door or Then God directed us to a man of speak his first words since the but have a meal together instead, relatives. outlawed God in Albania and speak memorised lines. Since we peace. In fact, it was a household stroke. He asked to be taken then put himself in God’s place were to live in this community for of peace. home to die in peace. through a careful plan of control, a long time, we needed to learn The next day we visited the propaganda and fear. When he the natural Albanian way to make A household of peace home and found Mustafa’s father finally died, many of them came friends. Authentic relationships Three generations lived under one on the couch with all his sons to realise that the one they had build trust, and since trust is the roof. The elder of the family was and their families around him. He idolised for so long had deeply key to the heart, we began there. a retired Muslim imam, although was dying, and the family was deceived them. ‘I have become all things to we didn’t know it at first. His son, obviously distressed by his The atheistic brainwashing all people so that by all possible Mustafa, became like a brother to suffering. The old man was had been very effective. Satan’s means I might save some.’ my husband. Sean helped him restless, and Sean asked fingerprints were all over this tiny (1 Cor. 9:22, NIV.) set up his wife’s clothing shop at Mustafa, once again, if he nation. Our prayers began to Perhaps some would consider the bazaar every morning except could pray for his father. Mustafa focus on asking God to heal them our approach unconventional, but Sabbath. This also included couldn’t grant permission now and give them a longing to know in reality we are attempting to get sitting in the café with Mustafa’s without the consent of his Him and an ability to trust Him. back to the original New circle of friends every morning brothers. They went into an Testament model of evangelism. except Sabbath. This A different approach When it comes to the Bible, is the way Albanian We didn’t hold evangelistic the ancient can be thoroughly men make friends and meetings or hand out tracts when modern and relevant. strengthen bonds. 10 celebrations 11

by the editor

n 4 August, the Great Brickkiln Street church celebrated ‘ fifty years of Jamaican independence and fifty Oyears of faith ’ in its own unique way. The core focus of the Sabbath programme was ‘ the Jamaican contribution to the growth of Adventism in Wolverhampton ’. The Sabbath was packed with a variety of memorable activities directed by Pastor Steve Palmer, Eseata Steele and their committed team, starting with a very lively Sabbath School discussion. Eseata summarised the development of the Adventist church in the Wolverhampton area, showing how one congregation had given birth to another as the work grew. This was followed by a thought-provoking sermon on faith preached by Dr Herbert Griffiths, a leading authority on UK Afro-Caribbean history. The afternoon programme started with the presentation of a cheque for £635 to the Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Support Project by Sister MacIntosh, on behalf of the church.

Then it was my turn Then it was the writer’s turn to interview five local members concerning their experience of adopting another country as home. What was the church like back home when you left Jamaica? How did you find it here? Has it changed over the years, and how? by Katie Ramharacksingh and their work for the Church in the UK. it was very important that we recognise her Their frank answers were a source of great The powerful sermon for the day, ‘God for her work. We’re privileged, because we entertainment – and food for quiet reflection. t is a time of celebration for Jamaicans. Reigns’, was given by Glenn Samuels, saw her mission work as we grew up, and Of particular interest were the stories of how Not only has the Olympics confirmed their Personal Ministries, Sabbath School and seeing that meant we’ve been that much they became Adventists. One lady, Mother pedigree as the world’s fastest runners, Ministerial department director in the closer to her and her goals. We really do Smith, said: ‘ I was a Baptist till I came to Ibut for the past fifty years, citizens of this Jamaican Union Conference. In the words consider her to be a torch-bearer in her own England. I was invited to an Adventist meeting proud Caribbean nation have progressed in of Pastor Richard de Lisser: ‘It was a very right!’ by the person I boarded with .’ And she their journey of independence. special day of fellowship for Jamaicans from Coincidently, during the evening concert stayed, of course! Thus, on Sabbath 4 August, more than all over the UK. Fifty years in the making! with performances by The Moodies, Lennon George Amore was another who found a The next generation always busy – church was our life. Our 1,400 Jamaicans from across the British Isles We are already looking forward to coming Brothers, Mark Bunny and others, there was new faith under these northern skies: ‘ I came Then the next generation got their chance to friends and our relationships were all based gathered together at St John at Hackney together again next year, at the same time, even more cause for celebration as it was from Kingston and don’t remember Adventist talk about what the church life in upon the church .’ church, East London. Under the theme ‘Out of for a second Jamaican day of fellowship.’ announced that Jamaican athletes, Shelly-Ann churches there. But as soon as I got here I Wolverhampton had meant to them. This many, one people’ they celebrated the fiftieth The day included a video presentation on Fraser-Pryce and Veronica Campbell-Brown, was invited to the Adventist church by a was done through the contributions of four It’s a tough task anniversary of Jamaican independence. the Windrush and Jamaicans’ entrance into, had taken gold and bronze, respectively, in the co-worker – a tailor. He kept me going ‘forty-to-fifty-something’ members who paid It’s a tough task to pack the joy and tears of The packed programme was organised by and contribution to, the Adventist Church in women’s 100 metre finals at the nearby week after week, answering all my many tribute to the positive role that worship, fifty years into one day, but the Great Brickkiln a group of Jamaican Adventist professionals the British Isles. Karen Clarke also interviewed Olympic Stadium. questions .’ Sabbath School and youth activities had Street church did a superb job of it. And in the called ‘JAWorks’, which includes Pastor Miss Myrtle Roole, MBE, a church member A 1998 archive radio interview with Myrtle Speaking about her religious culture shock, played in their young lives. doing thereof, I, the child of another culture, Richard de Lisser, Steve McKenzie, Andy recognised by the Queen for her service to Roole, the summer she was awarded her Mother Adair said that ‘ the atmosphere in the One of them said this – and it summarises was made to feel ‘adopted’ by them – as if Peynado, Larry Simpson and Joan Reid. This her local community in Stratford. MBE, is now available from the BUC Media church was dull at first, but when we started the sentiments expressed by the others: ‘ The they had granted me the privilege of first event for the newly established group Karen Clarke enthused, ‘I was very archive. The video created for the day can doing things like in Jamaica it was good !’ church was built on our families. We were ‘Jamaican-ness’ for that special day! was to celebrate Jamaicans coming together honoured to be able to interview Miss Roole; also be seen on YouTube . 12 news 13

Former Rock ’n’ Roll musician visits Leicester Central Leicester Central church enjoyed a series of presentations on ‘Revival’ 1,000 doors and more delivered by Pastor George Kumi, 7-13 July. This was followed by an Rugby church’s recent outreach involved distributing 400 DVDs outreach series entitled ‘Life After Rock ’n’ Roll’ by Pastor Louis and 600 books ( The Great Hope and When God Said Remember ) in Croydon ‘Revive and Torres, former bass guitarist with Bill Haley and the Comets. In this preparation for an evangelistic series Pastor A. Bruce will present in series he recounted his show business experiences with Bill Haley – October this year. There was a good response from the community, stay alive’ the father of Rock ’n’ Roll – sharing his gripping personal journey as a with many requesting further contact. The youth and children were The Croydon church held this series Rock ’n’ Roll star, the problems of the drug scene and how he survived also involved and seemed to enjoy the outreach as much as the adults. from 18-26 May under the ministry of it to become a Christian. ROBERTO DA SILVA Pastor Brent St Jean from the Pastor George Kumi said, ‘We were delighted to have Pastor Torres Dominican Republic. share his amazing story of transformation with us – a story of hope for It resulted in fifteen baptisms: some all.’ were siblings and two were engaged to There was much rejoicing as the series culminated in a baptism of be married – to each other! twenty-three candidates, who had been prepared through baptismal According to the writer: ‘Many of study groups, KIDS in Discipleship and Sabbath School experiences – the candidates were already engaged where there was time to explore what the Adventist Church believes, in Bible study with members of the and come to a personal decision. church prior to the Revival series.’ Pastor Louis is the president of the Guam-Micronesia Mission and BASED ON A REPORT BY ANDREW IFILL has a wealth of experience as an evangelist, international lecturer, musician and writer. He has written a number of books, including Gaining Decisions for Christ , Great Stories for Gaining Decisions, Bothersome and Disturbing Bible Passages and Left Behind or Natasha jumps for the children Sincerely Taken . He and his wife, Carol, are co-founders of the Mission Dear Editor College of Evangelism, from which have sprouted other schools, such On Tuesday 24 July I participated in a skydive for Dreams Come as ARISE, School of Evangelism, Switzerland Mission True, a charity that seeks to make special things happen for children College and Josia School of Evangelism. and young people with long-term and terminal illnesses. PHILIP HERBERT I have always wanted to do a skydive and as I was booking the place at the North London Skydive Centre I decided to do it as a sponsored event. I chose Dreams Come True, because I work with Left to right: Zhane Simpson, Phumi Simelane and Godfrey Olotu children and young people who face the difficulties some of the Dream children face. Baptism at Great Brickkiln church Thanks to the support of my family, friends and members of the Grantham Adventist church, I raised £515 for Dreams Come True. On Sunday 29 April there were blessings in abundance at the Great NATASHA COX Brickkiln church. The congregation witnessed three people – Godfrey Olotu, Zhane Simpson and Phumi Simelane – being baptised by Pastor Palmer and welcomed into the fellowship of the church. Zhane and Phumi, both active members of the Pathfinder club, had Bible studies with the Youth ministry leaders, Karen Campbell and Helderberg Jackson. Phumi invited several of her school friends to witness the event. Godfrey explained how he had once walked with God but somehow had fallen away when he left his home town in Africa. He had migrated Harrow enjoys diversity to the Western world, seeking wealth and fortune. However, he The Harrow church celebrated a successful international day of expressed gratitude to his wife who had prompted him to return to the fellowship on 5 May, showcasing the diverse nature of their faith. Godfrey’s Bible studies with an elder of the church, Algie Henry, congregation. brought him to his decision for baptism. DELVA CAMPBELL The heart of the programme was a series of presentations about how God is working in the homelands of those present and how some of them became Adventists. Some of the countries represented were Dedication at Sheffield Manor India, France, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Romania. We are used to big baptisms – but how about a ‘big’ dedication? The Romanian choir, renowned for their mastery of brass Sheffield Manor tried this recently under the leadership of instruments, performed a range of items, including special pieces from caretaker-pastor, Peter Jeynes. their homeland. Pastor Petrof, the main pastor of Harrow church, They dedicated ten children and one parent! This heart-warming closed the event with a sermonette. All of this was followed by an ceremony was largely due to an excellent community visitation ‘amazing’ banquet of international delicacies. programme under the leadership of two elders, Carlton Lee and IDRIS LAMINA Andrew Yesudian. PETER JEYNES 14 15 Your voice makes a difference by Pastor Victor Hulbert, BUC Communication director

‘What difference can I make? I’m just one voice.’ How many times have you heard that said? Yet we live in a democracy. MPs look to serve their constituents and also look to get re-elected, which means that they do listen to their constituents’ views. This is scaring the Conservative Party at the moment. Prime Minister David Cameron is pressing ahead with plans to deliver Baby dedication for Grantham same-sex ‘marriage’ by 2015, despite reports that the issue is causing Kevin and Amber Cox (and family members from both the UK and a drop in grass-roots membership of the party. That drop – according USA) recently dedicated their first child, Ainsley, during a service at the to the pressure group Christian Concern – could impact the next Grantham church on 23 June. Ainsley’s grandfather is Graham Cox, General Election. Back bench Tories are joining with senior party former employee at the Stanborough Press. members to warn Mr Cameron on the issue. GRAHAM COX One of those back benchers is Dr Phillip Lee, MP for Bracknell. He was contacted by one of his Adventist constituents back in March during the Government consultation period on ‘same-sex marriage’. Thirteen baptised in Jubilee Going for His reply was polite but ambivalent. Since then his stance has changed. Gold celebrations The Daily Mail quotes him as admitting that the ‘vast majority On 17 March, members, relatives and friends gathered at the Welling of people’ were against the plan. He wrote: ‘ With the strength of church to witness the baptism of thirteen people at the end of a two- opposition from so many of my constituents, I have had to review my week series of meetings conducted by the evangelist Gary Harrison, own position .’ Subsequent correspondence with Dr Lee has also been with the theme: ‘Going for Gold – in the year of Jubilee’. Night after positive, causing him to think on the implications for sex education in night the church was filled to capacity as Harrison covered topics such schools should the legislation change. as: ‘Back to Eden’, ‘What Is Sin?’ and ‘If the Dead Could Speak’. This is just one example. Bolton pastor, Jeff Couzins, is among a At the start of the campaign Pastor Bernard Akakpo offered a prize number of other Adventists who have shared their views with their of a Family Bible and a cake to whoever brought the most people to local MP. He writes, ‘ If more people expressed their outrage and the meetings. Liz Pickart won both prizes for bringing sixteen people dismay at the way the Government is handling the proposal to redefine to the meetings on a regular basis, seven of whom were among the marriage then we may get a good outcome .’ thirteen people baptised! While the result may not always be positive, as seems to be the Pastor Bernard Akakpo conducted the baptism, which was the first case following the consultation in Scotland, the opportunity to write one to be held in the Welling church. and express your view in the hope of change is surely better than the The candidates were: Natalie McLaren, Alfie Morris, Sophia, Sian, alternative. Cheyenne and Sapphire Faucher, Liam Hunte, Olivia Celestin, Theodore and Jason Samuel, Gavin Bowger, Michel Dantzie and Bridgette McDonald. Welling members would like to thank the North Wembley church for the loan of their portable baptism pool. On this historic day, in the year of the Jubilee and the Olympics, Inspire Share Witness the new members signalled that ‘Going for Gold’ as found in Jesus is better than obtaining the praises of men. Two TV channels to share the best of British and International Adventist programmes with your friends: BETHENE WITTER WHITE (Picture supplied, but of too poor quality for publication.) Life without limits Pastor Michael Kelly of California, USA, conducted the highly Revelation TV (Sky 581 or Freesat 692) A Christian TV channel sharing Adventist programming twice a week: Thursday 8:30pm, successful ‘Life Without Limits’ evangelistic series at Croydon church repeated Sunday 1pm. Dr Beardsell (centre) with Pastors Charles Watson (14-28 July), assisted by Tiffany Campbell-Dailey, (‘Life Without and Fred Thomas next to the mission plane Limits’ singing evangelist from Toronto, Canada. Europe (Hotbird 6: 11642MHz, www.hopetv.org.uk ) Kelly’s preaching was contemporary and forthright, but his Twelve hours of English programming daily: frankness clearly didn’t put people off, as night after night saw a English midnight – 2am completely full church and an ever-increasing number of viewers on Croydon’s Livestream channel. Russian/Ukrainian 2am – 8am Sabbath 28 July saw the series conclude with one of the most English 8am – 2pm memorable baptismal services the Croydon church has ever seen. Russian/Ukrainian 2pm – 7pm Pastor Kelly encouraged the congregation to clap, cheer and ‘amen’ as English 7pm – midnight loudly as they could for each candidate because, after all, there was a party going on in Heaven. All twelve candidates arose from the pool to Highlights from the UK include: loud cheers and applause that were both uplifting and genuine: truly a ‘In Conversation’ – sharing inspiring life journeys: fitting end to a successful evangelistic campaign. Monday: 12:30am, Wednesday: midnight, Friday: 8pm & midnight. GEORGINA BENJAMIN Sabbath: 9am and 7:30pm. Dear Editor ‘ViewPoint’ – discussing issues of life and faith: When the news of Dr Derek Beardsell’s death reached me, I was Hymn singing festival Monday: 9:30pm, Wednesday: 8am. looking through some slides I took when he was president of the Faithtalks – Tackling the basic issues of faith and . Halifax Church invites you to their hymn singing festival on Tanzania Union. Under his leadership they were busy developing a new Thursday: 12:30am, Friday: 8:30pm. head office complex that overlooks the city Arusha. This is a timely Sabbath 6 October, between 10am and 5pm. Guest speaker: Dr David Marshall reminder of the special role played in other parts of the world by our ALSO visit the Hope TV UK website for on-demand programming and exclusive BUC News reports and features: www.hopetv.org.uk British missionaries like Derek. St Hilda’s Church, Gibraltar Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 4HE JACK MAHON 16 back page Barnsley health course Following on from the national Barnsley church recently vegetarian week outreach, the presented a six-week NEWSTART Health department of the course, both for the public and its

New book of the week Your friends, the Seventh-day Adventists Ken McFarland own members. It consisted of If you’ve ever wondered who Seventh-day illustrated talks about various Adventists are and what they believe – let us health topics and how to live a introduce ourselves. Basically, we’re healthy lifestyle, together with Christians who love Jesus Christ and have accepted Him as our Saviour from sin. cookery demonstrations and an opportunity to taste a variety of Contact ABC Sales on nourishing vegetarian meals. 01476 539900 or email: [email protected] Recipes of all dishes used to purchase your copies at and a brief outline of each 50p each plus p&p. presentation are posted on the ABC BOOK SALES Barnsley church website. The course proved so popular that September monthly meetings are planned 2 Stanborough Press Open Day 8am-4.30pm after a summer break, as well as 14-15 NEC Session, Cheltenham weekly ‘relaxation classes’ in the 30 Welling 10am-2pm autumn. ABC Shops All those who came along Watford, BUC to the meetings expressed the 12.30-5pm, Monday-Thursday view that the course had been 10am-2pm, Friday instructive and helpful. They also Birmingham Aston-Newtown 11am-4pm, Wednesday had a good time tasting the food! 4pm-8pm, Thursday One member of the public who 9am-1pm, Friday was present at every meeting has 11am-3pm, Sunday already attended church twice Advent Centre Mondays & Wednesdays , 6.30pm-8.30pm since then and expressed the Sundays, 11am-3pm desire to ‘visit again’. HAZEL SCHOLES, COMMUNICATION SECRETARY Messenger Volume 117 • 18 – 31 August 2012 Editor: J. G. Hibbert Contributing Editor: Dr D. N. Marshall Design: David Bell COPY FOR No. 20 – 6 September 2012

Copy should be sent to the Editor, MESSENGER , The Stanborough Press Limited, Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. Fax No: (01476) 577144. Email: [email protected] Send high resolution pictures to: [email protected] ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 Mo n-Thurs only, 8am - 5.30pm. www.stanboroughpress.com The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. For general enquiries, email: [email protected] Printed in the UK. Visit the BUC website at: www.adventist.org.uk ISSN 0309-3654 Sunset Sunset times are reproduced with permission from data supplied by HM Nautical Almanac Office. Lond Card Nott Edin Belf Aug 31 7.48 8.01 7.55 8.09 8.17 Sept 7 7.33 7.45 7.38 7.51 8.00 14 7.17 7.29 7.22 7.32 7.42 21 7.01 7.13 7.05 7.14 7.24

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