OCTOBER 1976 VOLUME 71, NO. 10 SOUTHERN ASIA

A CALL TO FASTING AND PRAYER

ALF LOHNE

Vice-President, General Conference

The last day of this year's Week of Prayer— the world for a witness unto all nations; and then Sabbath, November 13, 1976—has been designated shall the end come" (Revelation 14:6; Matthew a day of fasting and prayer for the Regions Beyond. 24:14). One of the reasons why the General Conference Let us, therefore, observe Sabbath, November Spring Meeting voted this, we find in these words 6, as a day of fasting and prayer for the from the Spirit of Prophecy: "Our burden for the Regions Beyond. Pray that ways may open and regionS beyond can never be laid down till the means be found to reach and win the longing souls whole earth is enlightened with the glory of the in these unentered areas from whom "prayers and Lord."—Gospel Workers, p. 470. tears and inquiries go up... for light, for grace, for The church exists for that purpose—to carry the Holy Spirit."—The Acts of the Apostles, p 109. "our burden for the regions beyond." We must We must find and contact the many who "are on reach the unreached, enter the unentered, penetrate the verge of the kingdom waiting only to be gathered barriers erected against the truth, be they secular, in."—Ibid. spiritual or political. Jesus made it clear that some great things The messenger of the Lord prophesied, "The can only be done by "prayer and fasting" (Mark work which the church has failed to do in a time 9:29). Especially is this true when His church of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a battles against spiritual powers and tries to enter terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding areas where the evil one seems to be the lone ruler. circumstances."—Testimonies, vol 5, p 463. These "If the saints of God with deep humility fast and circumstances exist today in some parts of the pray, their prayers will prevail. Jesus will com- world. Large geographical areas comprising countries mission holy angels to resist Satan, and he will be where hundreds of millions of people live are seem- driven back and his power broken."—Testimonies, ingly beyond the reach of the Advent Message. In vol 1, p 344. these lands practically no public preaching, no public As far as physical food is concerned, some advertising, or other traditional Adventist methods may be able to abstain completely from eating and of soul winning can be used. There are wide areas just drink water or fruit juices. Others will eat very where our people have no Seventh-day Adventist simply and lightly, the purpose being to concentrate literature in their own language, no Sabbath schools, not on the physical but on the spiritual. and cannot operate denominational schools. Let God's people, then, make a special appoint- Because of these conditions it seems humanly ment at the throne of grace on Sabbath, November impossible to reach the masses in these paces. 6. Let us plead with God for the Regions Beyond, Yet, the time has come to finish the work. There for opening shut doors, and for wisdom and courage must be ways to reach the hearts and minds of all to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit in making these people! God has destined His message now full use of existing opportunities. And let us re- to go "to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, member the promise, "He will finish the work, and and people." He has given us a commission—"And cut it short in righteousness: because a short work this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all will the Lord make upon the earth" (Romans 9:28). SPIRIT OF PROPHECY The First Advent of Christ

ELLEN G. WHITE

I was carried down to the time when Jesus Him, because He had humbled Himself as a man. was to take upon Himself man's nature, humble Satan came with this temptation: "If thou be the Himself as a man, and suffer the temptations of Son of God, command that this stone be made Satan. bread." He tempted Jesus to condescend to give His birth was without world:y grandeur. He him proof of His being the Messiah, by exercising was born in a stable, and cradled in a manger; yet His divine power. Jesus mildly answered him, "It His birth was honoured far above that of any of the is written, Men shall not live by bread alone, but by sons of men. Angels from heaven informed the every word of God." shepherds of the advent of Jesus, and light and Satan, to manifest his power, carried Jesus to glory from God accompanied their testimony. The Jerusalem, and set Him upon a pinnacle of the heavenly host touched their harps and glorified God. temple, and there tempted Him to give evidence They triumphantly heralded the advent of the Son that He was the Son of God, by casting Himself of God to a fallen world to accomplish the work of down from the dizzy height. Satan came with the redemption, and by His death to bring peace, happi- words of inspiration: "For it is written, He shall ness, and everlasting life to man. God honoured give His angels charge over Thee, to, keep Thee; the advent of His Son. Angels worshipped Him. and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest Angels of God hovered over the scene of His at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone." baptism; the Holy Spirit descended in the form of Jesus answering said unto him, "It is said, Thou a dove and lighted upon Him, and as the people shat not tempt the Lord thy God." Satan wished stood greatly amazed; with their eyes fastened up- to cause Jesus to presume upon the mercy of His on Him, the Father's voice was heard from heaven, Father, and risk -His life before the fulfilment of His saying, Thou art My beloved Son; in thee I am well mission. He had hoped that the plan of salvation pleased. would fail; but the plan was laid too deep to John was not certain that it was the Saviour be overthrown or marred by Satan. who came to be baptised of him in Jordan. But "And the devil, taking Him up into a high God had promised him a sign by which he should mountain, showed unto Him all the kingdoms of know the Lamb of God. That sign was given as the the world in a moment of time. And the devil said heavenly dove rested upon Jesus, and the gory unto Him, All this power will I give Thee, and the of God shone round above Him. John reached forth glory of them; for that is delivered unto me; and his hand, pointing to Jesus, and with a loud voice to whomsoever I will, I give it. If Thou therefore cried out, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh wilt worship me, all shall be Thine. And Jesus away the sin of the world!" answered and said unto him, Get thee behind Me, John came in the spirit and power of Elijah, to Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt worship the proclaim the first advent of Jesus. I was pointed Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." down to the last days, and saw that John rep- Satan presented before Jesus the Kingdoms resented those who should go forth in the spirit and of the world in the most attractive light. If Jesus power of Elijah, to herald the day of wrath, and the would there worship him, he offered to relinquish second advent of Jesus. his claims to the possessions of earth. If the plan After the baptism of Jesus in Jordan, He was of salvation should be carried out, and Jesus should led by the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted die to redeem man, Satan knew that his own power of the devil. The Holy Spirit had prepared Him for must be limited and finally taken away, and that that special scene of fierce temptations. Forty days he would be destroyed. Therefore it was his studied He was tempted of Satan, and in those days He plan to prevent, if possible, the completion of the ate nothing. Everything around Him was unp'easant, great work which had been commenced by the from which human nature would be led to shrink. Son of God. If the plan of man's redemption should He was with the wild beasts and the devil, in a fail, Satan would retain the kingdom which he then desolate, lonely place. The Son of God was pale claimed. And if he should succeed, he flattered and emaciated, through fasting and suffering. But himself that he would reign in opposition to the His course was marked out, and He must fulfil the God of heaven. work which He came to do. Satan exulted when Jesus laid aside His power Satan took advantage of the sufferings of the and glory, and left heaven. He thought that the Son of God, and prepared to beset Him with mani- fold temptations, hoping to obtain the victory over To page 14 2 Southern Asia Tidings Are You Receiving Tidings ? SRI LANKA MEETING B. F. Pingho Adrian M. Peterson The summons of Christ "YE ARE MY WITNESSES" was the focal point of the Sri Lanka Camp from August The present monthly circulation of postage, we request that others who 18-21. The attendance of 650 on the Tidings is approximately 2,300 copies. desire to receive Tidings by airmail Sabbath was the highest on record. These are sent to all areas of India, should forward payment for the post- Many were not able to come because as well as to the other 8 countries age at the approximate equivalent of of travel problems created by the Non- within our Division. Additional copies Rs. 45 per year. aligned Summit Conference during are also posted to other countries the same time. overseas, such as to U.S.A., England, During this past year, in an effort to Africa, Australia and Fiji. update the circulation list of Tidings, There was an eagerness on the part some 900 adjustments have been made. of all to be present at every meeting. Tidings is posted free to all workers These include cancellations for re- It was very evident that the devotionals in the Southern Asia Division. It is turned magazines, and changes of had been carefully and thoughtfully also posted to Adventist Church mem- address for people who have moved. prepared. There was depth and bers who are fluent in English and who seriousness in every spiritual message. have requested to be placed on the Are you receiving Tidings? If you mailing list. Tidings is also posted free are a worker or an English speaking Youth and adult joined in discussing by boat mail, to any person overseas church member in Southern Asia, or progressive measures for the buildup who has an interest in our work in if you have an interest in our work in of every department of the Church. Southern Asia. Southern Asia, you should be reading After the discussion in the activities Tidings every month. Remember to of each department, time was taken Airmail copies of Tidings are sent write clearly and to send your full for group prayers. The presence of the free to the administrators of our work address. Holy Spirit among the campers was in the 8 countries of the Division out- markedly felt. This paved the way for side India, and also to General Con- If you have moved, and need a happy and cordial relationships and a ference personnel, and Southern Asia change of address for Tidings, please spirit of kindness and patience. workers called to other Divisions. send your old address as well as your Because of the high rate of airmail new address. The sabbath morning service was taken by Ranjit Aranze. The trans- lators were W. 0. Joseph and J. 110eIngieratzmasc•re.MIZSX.COM• Gnanasekeran. This was followed by a baptism in which three pastors of- ADVENTIST RADIO Other Adventist programmes which ficiated in the baptism of ten candi- receive a good mail response are dates. MAIL Tuckers "Quiet Hour", and the "Voice Adrian M. Peterson of Prophecy" in Kannada and Mala- The total programme was indeed a yalam. `Summit Conference' of God's people Tell your friends and relatives about Earlier this year, a new reporting in Sri Lanka. The revival that took the "Voice of Prophecy" and invite place and the conclusions after dis- system was introduced by the Com- them to listen to the programmes and munication Department, for use in cussion periods combined together will enrol in one of the correspondence be effective to reach the goal of a obtaining accurate information regard- courses. ❑ ❑ ing the work in our Correspondence finished work in Sri Lanka soon. Schools. All Correspondence schools are now using these forms, and the Ten candidates were baptised by three pastors on the Sabbath of the meetings. new statistical information is very revealing. The top Adventist radio programme in English in Southern Asia is "Your Radio Doctor". This receives a com- bined mail response of 250 letters per month. "Your Radio Doctor" is heard on Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. on MW in Colombo and on SW in India, from SLBC (Radio Ceylon). The top Adventist vernacular pro- gramme is the Telegu Voice of Proph- ecy conducted by Pr. Judson Moses. This 15 minute programme is heard every Sunday at 3 p.m. on two short wave outlets of SLBC. The mail res- ponse of the Telegu Voice of Prophecy programme averages at some 340 letters per month. October 1976 3 ANDHRA STEWARD SHIP COM- MITMENT PROGRAMME School Evaluation in South India S. G. Kamble, Central India Steward- ship Director

Pastor P. C. Matthew, the Division W. J. MCHENRY Stewardship Advisor, Pastor P. Advisor, Education Department Krupa Rao, the Andhra Section Stew- ardship Director and the writer visited a number of churches in Andhra Sec- tion in connection with the promotion soon. of stewardship. We were able to visit Prom August 10 .to 22, 1976 Pastor as many as 19 churches and conduct A. M. Job, South India Union Educa- It was thrilling to see the students bring their Bibles to all religious meetings for our church members. At tion Director and I visited certain each meeting the need for total sacri- schools in the South India Union. gatherings and eagerly look up the texts mentioned by the speakers. fice was emphasised. According to The first stop was at Pondicherry Deut. 28:13 every church member where Mr. Henry Theodore is the This school received a "B" rating. Next on the itinerary was the ought to be "the head and not the tail." Principal of the school. In another This is the promise of God and if year the school will be a senior high Madurai High School. This school has the second highest enrolment of any we are not the head, then it is time school. Only 35 of the 548 students are for us to seriously think of our fail- Adventists. The crowded conditions Seventh-day Adventist school in the Division. Out of an enrolment of 1099, ings and try to receive the blessings leave much to be desired. Syllabi of God as promised in Malachi 3:10. recommended for most classes were only 58 or 5.3 per cent were Seventh, day Adventists. The school is being A church member usually feels that being covered, however, the teaching he is too poor to return one tenth of of Bible, the primary subject for Ad- conducted on two campuses. A piece of property next to the new campus his income to God and this misconcep- ventist schools was not receiving the tion perhaps might be the main cause emphasis it needs. is under negotiation to add further facilities. Seven of the 35 teaching of his poverty. Seven of the 23 teaching staff are non-Adventists. The school received staff are non-Adventists (20 per cent). Here also the religious instruction At the end of the meeting a com- a "C" rating. mitment programme was conducted Next we visited the Trichy High was weak. In some instances proper Bible textbooks are not being used. It and pledges were made by every mem- School. Here only 29 of the 636 ber in attendance. Whenever possible, students were Adventists. Two of the is hoped that improvements will be made as the new administration takes a church board was called and a six- 25 teaching staff were non-Adventists. month church expense budget was set Mr. Lazarus, the principal and Mrs. full charge. This school was given a "B" rating. to meet the needs of the church, Lazarus, the Headmistress recently setting aside a portion for the oper- joined the school and have plans to The next stop was our boarding high school at Kottarakara. We found 475 ation of the local section. This kind try to improve the conditions in the of budgeting was a new thing for school. The accommodation is woe- students at the main campus and 25 at Panaveli where the Seminary is most of our church members but many fully inadequate for the large enrol- were glad to know about this matter ment. A plot of ground nearby has located. Forty-nine per cent of the students on the main campus are from and decided to take care of the needs been purchased with a view to improv- of their individual church. Now the ing the facilities. Adventist homes. It is hoped that the Adventist enrolment will increase in responsibility rests upon each church The Bible teaching programme pastor to continue the promotion of needs to be greatly strengthened in the future. The Seminary programme no doubt this most important phase of the min- this school also. Maps are being taken istry—STEWARDSHIP—in his own care of very well. has helped the field some, but it does need further strengthening. church. This school also received a "C". The week-end activities were a re- From Trichy we went to the E. D. freshing interlude in a busy week. The In our visit to the various churches Thomas Memorial High School. This MV programme put on by the students we were able to see God's blessings boarding school has an enrolment of was excellent. poured on the faithful. At Gondipalli, 290 in the Tamil medium or upper The new boys' hostel and the new Brother Samuel brought in three goats classes (VI to XI) and 77 in the as his tithe in addition to Rs. 400 out administration block are in use. English medium, unrecognized, lower of his sweetlime garden sale. At Nandi- classes. Forty-three per cent of the This school also received a GB". mandalama Brother John promised enrolment is Adventist. The school is The last school on this trip was three-fourth acre of land for the con- commended for having only Seventh- the Kuttapuzha School to which we struction of a church. The other day Adventist teachers. paid only an informal visit. Here only church members promised Rs. 2,500 The general programme at the 48 of the 640 students are Adventists. cash as their share for the same proi- school seems to be good. Unless the There are 140 students in 4 so-called ect, At Tenali Mr. and Mrs. Yohannan canals start flowing shortly, the school self supporting hostels. Here, too, returned all their back tithe. These could run into a serious water short- crowded conditions existed. The and many other instances of faithful- age problem. Only two wells had school is having acute water problems. ness gladdened our hearts and we hope water and one of them could dry up The missionary prospects of the school they serve as an example for others shortly if canals do not start flowing need to be strengthened and developed. in the field. 4 Southern Asia Tidings much of the area around Nazareth will become arid desert. God has taken care of the needs of Jolting through South the Prakasapuram school by providing abundant water in two wells on the school property. The staff and students HELEN MELEEN LOWRY are of good courage, thankful to be Tamil Land able to continue school as usual. The faithful Janatha Express re- turned me to Pune on the 17th of A sharp blast on the whistle, as the pupils who keep their new principal, August. I was none-the-worse for wear conductor waves his green flag, is Mr. Sam Kodan, very busy as he tries inspite of all my jolting travels. ❑ always a sign for last minute stragglers to provide for their needs. to board the train immediately. At the Pastor Y. R. Samraj, South Tamil Pune station, the coach to Madras is Section President then took me to C. I. PUBLISHING always the last one, away down be- Nazareth by the train which groaned, INSTITUTE. yond the limits of the railway shed shuddered and bumped all night along and off the paving, near the end of its rocky road. At Nazareth, in the The Publishing Department of the the platform. One dare not be late morning a taxi deposited people and Central India Union conducted a 5-day for that train. But in my experience, the luggage at the Prakasapuram Publishing Department Institute in even when one arrives at the station campus of James High School, where Hyderabad which commenced on in plenty of time, the coolie always Pastor and Mrs. Joseph welcomed August 14. This institute attracted insists on setting the luggage down everyone. Here twenty-six teachers at- some 20 colporteurs and there was somewhere mid-way of either ex- tended the institute. also Union and Division representa- tremity of the platform, then he dis- On Sabbath it was my privilege to tion. The colporteurs attending this appears, to remain away until after speak to the members of the Nazareth institute are working in the Maha- the train has pulled in. One has to Church at the eleven o'clock service rashtra and Andhra Sections and in then keep close behind him as, balanc- and to Palaniappapuram Church Gujarat. ing a heavy trunk on his head, and members in the evening. I also had One colporteur, M. P. David, re- dangling assorted packages from his the privilege of assisting Brethren ported that he began in this work 42 arms, he battles hordes of people go- Samraj and Caleb Joshua, South years ago, and even though he is on ing in every direction in order to Tamil Section Treasurer, in distribut- sustentation, he is still active as a reach the rear coach. Usually he gets ing Rs. 2,680 in famine relief. The Literature Evangelist. Colporteur N. to the last compartment just about poor people were really grateful for Raja Rao stated that last year he con- the time the conductor is ready to this relief money on which they im- ducted an evangelistic effort and this blow the whistle. Its always quite an mediately paid the tithe. year he is conducting a Branch Sabbath exciting few moments to push up the Rain has been very scarce there School with 15 in attendance. steps against crowds of people getting during the past two years and also All colporteurs in the Marathi areas off, as they have said "good bye" to this year. For the first time in my expressed appreciation for the new loved ones, and to find ones "seat" life I have seen the desert thorn journal, "Arogya Deep", which was amidst the general confusion inside. bushes, palmyra palms and cacti dying launched only a few months ago. Thursday, August 5, was no exception for lack of moisture. It is reported In the plans for the next 12 months, as I boarded the mail for Madras. that snakes, rodents, birds and other the 20 colporteurs indicated that they A one inch foam rubber mattress small creatures are found dead due are aiming to sell 300 subscriptions to makes even a three tier board bunk to lack of water. Many people have "Our Times" each month, and 2,000 feel almost like first class comfort on abandoned their villages. Unless they subscriptions to the language Health the Pune to Madras run. But Egmore get rain soon, it appears as though magazines. station in Madras to Madurai is another story, the metre guage train sways dangerously, leaps and bucks, jerks and jolts alarmingly over the The Division, Oriental Watchman Publishing House, NHHS and the Union leaders road-bed until one wonders whether met with the colporteurs from Central India Union for an institute in Hyderabad. or not it will arrive at its destination all together. Also one begins to suspect that the numerous bumps and bruises one gets will result in "sore spots," to remind one of the ride for several days to come. It was with thankfulness I descended at Madurai to be welcomed by Pastor and Mrs. Devadass who graciously provided hospitality for my stay there. Seventy-five teachers attended the convention which was held in the Seventh-day Adventist Church—Sun- day, Monday, and Tuesday, August 8-10. The Madurai Seventh-day Adventist Day School has an enrolment of 1099 October 1976 5 TIM BOTTLE—AND ITS ANDREWS UNIVERSITY Roy F. Williams, associate secre- tary of the General Conference of STORY D. MIN. PROGRAMME Seventh-day Adventists, said confir- FULLY AC CREDITED A bottle which had apparently mation of the takeover was received drifted more than 7,000 kilometres Saturday, July 10, from the church's The Theological Seminary at Afro-Mideast Division headquarters. from the United States was discovered Andrews University has received full washed up on the Banana Bowl "The hospital staff was made up lar- accreditation for its doctor of minis- gely of nationals assisted by approx- Beach, Korora, Australia, yesterday try programme. Morning. imately 20 staff members from other Dr. Joseph G. Smoot, president of countries," said Williams. "We hope The bottle, believed to be an Ame- the university, was present at the rican beer stubble, was Mund washed to relocate most of the missionary meeting of the Association of Theo- staff at other areas in East Africa." up on the beach shortly after 7 o'- logical Schools (ATS) in Boston clock by Mildura visitor Mrs. Edith The church operates several other when the action of the Commission on institutions in Ethiopia, including a Matthews. Accrediting was confirmed. This ac- The contents? Two religious pam- college. There are 360 Adventist tion makes Andrews' doctor of min- churches with more than 25,000 phlets from a Los Angeles-based group istry programme one of 16 such known as "The Voice of Prophecy". members in Ethiopia. programmes that are fully accredited Empress Zauditu Memorial Hos- The inside of the bottle, which by the ATS in the United States, and was sealed with an ordinary cork, pital opened in 1933. It reopened in one of only seven without any nota- 1942 after a short closing during was moisture free and the pamphlets tions. Official confirmation of the in perfect condition. World War H. A school for nurses accreditation was received in June was operated in connection with the An observer claimed that, if the at the university. bottle had come from Los Angeles, hospital, which provided other health "This is a historical moment for services to the area. it would have had to have been Adventist education," said Dr. Arnold floating for at least three years. Kurtz, director of the D.Min. pro- The bottle was covered with a gramme, "in that it represents the first variety of marine life and fibreglass. full accreditation of a doctoral pro- A recent cyclone that devasted the As the cork was screwed out of gramme outside our medical school." state of Gujarat, left 2/3 of the vil-. the bottle, an onlooker gave a sigh The programme, in existence for lage of Lymbayah submerged under of relief and said, "Thank heavens three years, has had 10 graduates. water. A recently baptised member its' not a genie."—Cofi's Harbour Three more will be graduated this from this village approached the pas- Advocate. 0 summer. The programme requires a tor of the Surat church, Mr. J. S. minimum of 48 credits of coursework Moses who had conducted an evan- including doctoral research project. gelistic meeting there, to help them. Plans are underway at Andrews to introduce more flexibility into the D. Min. programme. Beginning in Thirteen people were baptised in September it will be unnecessary for Bangalore by Pastor V. D. Edwards, a minister to leave his church for Karnataka Section President on July the full year's residency at Andrews 10. These were the fruits of the labour that is presently required. of Reuben Adams, pastor of the A three-week intensive workshop Lowry Telugu church. session will cover one of the six- When Mr. Adams took over the credit core areas for the doctor of care of the church there were only ministry. The first of these sessions ten ladies attending the church. In a will be held at Andrews, November short period of time the membership 1-18. increased to forty adults and twenty For further information, contact Dr. Mr. Vasant Parmer, district magistrate five children. There has been a pro- Arnold Kurtz, Seventh-day Adven- appreciated the social work done by the portionate increase in the offerings. tist Theological Seminary, Andrews Adventists. The baptised members are seen be- University, Berrien Springs, Michi- low with Mr. Reuben Adams (L) and gan 49104. 0 After having a look at the devasta- Pastor V. D. Edwards (R). tion the Union officers sanctioned aid for the villagers. On the 9th of August 15 volunteers from the Surat church went to the ETHIOPIAN ADVENTIST Village of Lymbayah and bought HO SPITAL foodgrains from the local merchant who when he came to know of the NATIONALISED cause gave it at concessional rates. The government of Ethiopia has This grain was distributed to 900 nationalized the Empress Zauditu families who were severely affected Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa, by the rains. according to reports received at The beginning of the distribution Seventh-day Adventist world head- programme was marked by a special quarters. The 135-bed hospital was service at which the district magis- one of the Adventist church's chain° trate, Vasant Parmer, made a speech of 136 hosp;tals around the world. of appreciation. ❑ Southern Asia Tidings. LARGEST COLLECTION OF GREEK MANUSCRIPTS IN U.S. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOIS NOW AT ANDREWS

The James White Library at An- drews University now has the largest collection of microfilmed Greek manuscripts of the Catholic Epistles in the United States. Drs. Sakae Kubo and W. L. Richards are presently examining these manuscripts in order to classify them according to their textual af- finities. Both Kubo and Richards have collated manuscripts in Munster, West Germany, site of the largest collec- The staff and students of our High tion in the world. This VBS was conducted in the W. G. School in Tiruchirapalli had a grand Thomas Memorial School in Tiruchira- fund-raising entertainment programme. The recent acquisitions bring the palli where 92 children regularly at- Mr. Krishna Moorthy Rao, a leading ad- total number of these ancient manu- tended the programme. Of this group vocate of the town was the chief guest. scripts at Andrews to 115, with more more than 70% are now attending the Pastor P. V. Jesudass, president, North children's Sabbath school regularly. The to come in the near future. Many of Tamil section presided over the pro- picture above show the children show- gramme. the manuscripts contain the entire ing their certificates. Below, P. R. Israel, New Testament; most, however, have Section S S director gives out certifi- just the Catholic Epistles, which in- cates to the students who completed the course. clude 1st and 2nd Peter, James, Jude, and lst, 2nd and 3rd John. The term "Catholic" used in this context refers to all epistles not written by Paul. The manuscripts, which date from the fourth to the fourteenth cen- turies, A.D., come from monasteries, convents, and libraries in such countries as Great Britain, France, Greece, the Soviet Union, Italy, and Germany. Seminary students have aiready found the manuscripts useful in classes studying the New Testament. W. Thamseng Marak and Windash Dr. Richards is associate professor Sangma conducted a number of VBS's of New Testament and Dr. Kubo is in the Garo Hills. The highest enrol- ment was in Bakenang where the total professor of New Testament at An- went up to 105. drews.

The teachers of the Moradabad school conducted a very successful VBS There were a number of VBS's conducted in the Upper Ganges Section this year.

October 1976 7 1210 Enrolled of Spicer

K. J. MOSES

Enrolment in Spicer Schools Spicerian-Oreodoxa Campaign Launched A total of 1,270 students were en- rolled in all schools of Spicer College The annual Spicerian-Oreodoxa during this academic year-853 in col- campaign, with Mr. S. Unnikumaran Students recently baptised at Spicer are seen with Prs. R. H. Jones, Justin lege, 167 in high school, 183 in English as sponsor, was launched September Singh and L. A. Willis.. elementary school and 67 in Marathi 7, with opening remarks by President elementary school. Among the college Cherian. The two trade names chosen tion for 1976 at the Andrews Univer- students, 583 are young men and 270 for the sides were the textile mills— sity Homecoming held from April 30 are young ladies, representing four Kohinoor Mills and 'Thakersey Fabrics. to May 2. division fields and 20 countries. There J. Sam Prasad and Lalitha Aruldass Cherian and 37 other educators are 24 students from Afro-Mideast are leading the Thakersey Fabrics were also cited by the Michigan state Division, 20 from Far Eastern side. Kohinoor Mills leaders during the Michigan International Division, one student from Trans are Ravendran Gnanakkan and Week, October, 1975. They represented African Division and the remaining Janette Peterson. During the six educators who have graduated from are from Southern Asia-331 from weeks campaign both sides compete Michigan centres of higher learning South India Union, 283 from Central for the most subs for the Spicerian and who have returned to their own India Union, 184 from Northern and advertisements for the Oreodoxa. countries where they have made Union and 8 from Sri Lanka. This year's goal was set at 3,500 sub- significant contributions to learning scriptions, 500 more than last year's and society. Independence Day Celebration goal. Dr. Cherian has been nominated as A. S. Job is Spicerian sponsor and a member of the Poona University Dr. M. R. Bhide, Dean of the Fac- Dr. E. S. Samuel the Oreodoxa Senate. He is also a member of the ulty of Science in Poona University, sponsor. Elected were, N. Nursoo, as University Grants Commission sub- was the guest of honour at the 29th Spicerian editor, Lorna Christo as committee on continuing education in Independence Day celebration at SMC. Oreodoxa editor, M. Mohan Raj as India. He has been associated with 30 Following the traditional annual business manager and Johnson Selva- educational and humanitarian organ- parade, under the direction of G. durai as circulation manager. izations in India, and appeared in the Sargunam, the chief guest reminded 1975 edition of Great Men of India. the audience of the sacrifices made President Cherian Felicitated by our leaders. Dr. Bhide invited the New Staff Members college family to work for national Dr. M. E. Cherian was honoured integration. as one of the four alumni of distinc- Joining Spicer's staff for 1976-77 school year, in addition to those men- tioned in this column last month are: For the fourth time an Andrews University extension school was held at Spicer Charles Jenson, Carter J. W. Lowry for nine weeks. A total of 110 students and field workers attended the school. Dr. and Mrs. Donna J. Lowry. Charles Harold Coffin of Berrian Springs, Michigan, Dr. Robert Olson of the E. G. White Jenson, son of Pr. and Mrs. W. J. Estate, Washington, and Dr. M. E. Cherian, President of the college taught the Jenson, received his Bachelor's degree classes. in Theology from Pacific Union Col- lege (USA). Before joining Spicer Charles served one year as a student missionary in Tanzania. He is teaching in the departments of religion and occidental music. He is also serving as the college choir leader. Carter Lowry, son of Dr. and Mrs. R. S. Lowry, joined the staff in October 1975 as manager of the Auto Industry. Lowry, a Business Adminis- tration major from La Sierra College, is currently teaching in the Department of Industrial Arts. Donna Lowry, an Elementary Edu- cation major, also from La Sierra Col- lege, joined August 15, as one of the secretaries in President Cherian's office. The Carter Lowry's are the third generation serving Southern Asia Division. Southern Asia Tidings Cultural Programme

Spicer Memorial College, under the auspices of the Christian Graduates TEMPERANCE TO THE Fellowship of Poona, presented a cultural programme on August 29 at Nehru Memorial Hall, Poona. The RESCUE programme consisted of musical items by the College Choir, Male Chorus, Ladies Chorus, Hindi classicals and skits and readings. ❑

SAWS AID FOR PHILIPPINES EARTH- QUAKE

Several divisions of the Seventh-day Adventist Church have provided more than $100,000 in disaster relief follow- ing the August 16 earthquake and tidal wave that struck the island of Mind- anao in the Philippines. Howard D. Burbank, executive di- rector and manager of Seventh-day Adventist World Service (SAWS), an- nounced today that $20,000 has been voted to buy food and building ma- terials. They will be purchased within the Philippine Islands. Also, 50 tons of emergency medical and housing supplies are currently en route by boat to the victims. Another 20,000 pounds of clothing are set for flight this week. Shipping costs will be provided by Philippine Air Lines. Walter R. L. Scragg, president of the Northern Europe-West Africa Division of Seventh-day Adventists, announced in London that his organ- ization will send a plane load of tents, blankets, clothes and water purification tablets to Mindanao later this week. No figures on the quantities of ma- terials were available. Over 6,000 persons have died and 28,000 are homeless because of the tidal wave. U.S. AID (The Agency for International Development) had re- quested the use of the Adventist Mountain View College, in Malabalay, the Philippines, as a relief centre for its activities. SAWS has set up its own operation in the Mindanao city of Pagadian, where 934 persons died. In another SAWS action today, 100 tents and 2,200 blankets will be sent to the Caribbean island of Guade- loupe. Seventy thousand persons have been evacuated in anticipation of the TEMPERANCE eruption of a volcano there. Freight costs are being paid by Air France from SAWS' East Coast warehouse OFFERING Oct 23, 1976 near New York City. ❑ October 1976 Another feature is brought to focus in this section; every single Adventist home has their own S.S. quarterly which they are encouraged to pay for. This year three Spicer College students conducted fifteen Vacation Bible Schools with very encouraging results. A total of 21 VBS's were con- ducted in the section. Out of a total of 1165 students 689 are now attend- ing our Branch Sabbath Schools. We hope they will soon become regular junior sabbath school members. So far 298 precious souls have been brought into the remnant church through the gateway of the Sabbath school. 0

RETURNING FROM P. U. C. Edward Baroi and Joel Zahid from the Karachi Hospital are seen vaccinating the people of the flood affected villages in Pakistan. Gordon Christo

FLOOD RELIEF WORK still surrounded by water and our work was hindered by the lack of a IN PAKISTAN four wheel drive vehicle. T. I. Butler Medicines and food valued at Rs. 7,000 were donated to the Red Cres- During August the monsoons really cent (Red Cross) for distribution hit Pakistan with a vengeance—over amongst its agencies. 36 inches of rain in Lahore, this Rail and road communications be- is double the average. All rivers were tween Lahore and Karachi have just in flood and this plus the extra rain been restored after a two week break. affected nearly every district in each Our main work now, will be to assess province. As a consequence over two the damage done to homes and help hundred people lost their lives in the in the reconstruction of such. Punjab area and thousands of villages 61.=51E0.2 were affected. The Punjab Government estimates that 78,000 villages were SABBATH SCHOOL REPORT affected and over 550,000 houses were FROM NORTH TAMIL NADU damaged or destroyed. So far accord- Gloria Thomas ing to reports 80 church members homes have been destroyed and it is There is an open door to the church John Nihar Biswas, from Bangla- likely that this figure will reach more through the Sabbath School. It is wide desh, successfully completed his M.A. than 200. SAWS have given some aid enough for anyone from anywhere in religion in the summer of 1976, and we are requesting further assist- to enter. The Sabbath School has an from the Seventh-day Adventist Theo- ance to help in the reconstruction of influence beyond estimate. It has con- logical Seminary (Far East) at Philip- houses. verting power and is strength to the pine Union College. Because of limited personnel and church. John studied in Adventist schools equipment we have restricted our flood We have 1,368 Sabbath Schools in at Jarlipar, Bangladesh and Spicer relief efforts so far to the Sheikhupura Southern Asia. Imagine the results if College, India, being active in church district. We have established good re- each member were diligent; the result and class work. Later he taught at the lations with the government and health would be fabulous and the reward Jarlipar school. That year he was the officials and have been able to operate would be His soon appearing. youngest presiding officer for the 1973 independently in any way we desire. At present we have 18 Sections in elections in Bangladesh. The Karachi Hospital sent us two male our Division. From one Section, North He went to the Philippines in nurses, Edward Baroi and Joel Zahid Tamil, Pastor P. R. Israel, Acting November 1974 to study religion, and and these two men did a great work. Sabbath School Director sends in an was one of the youngest in the Sem- We organised a team of helpers and encouraging report. inary. He is the first Bangladesh gradu- were able to visit seven village areas The Sabbath school membership for ate from the Seminary, and has gladly over a two week period. During this the section is 3,845. These members accepted a call to join the work in time we vaccinated 5,460 people gave Rs. 17,221.51 as Sabbath school his section. He will be arriving in against cholera and typhoid, gave treat- offering and Rs. 3,531.24 as their in- Dacca this month. ment and medicines to the sick and vestment offering. He says "The Seminary has changed distributed thousands of packets of The offering reports are commend- the direction of my life, and now I puffed corn cereal manufactured by able in as much as this section has am inspired to help finish God's work Desert King Foods at Pakistan Ad- been severely affected by drought and in Bangladesh." He is grateful to the ventist College. Many villages were famine. Seminary for what it has done for him. 19 Southern Asia Tidings laymen on the March

V. P. MUTHIAH Lay Activities Advisor

KOTTARAKARA WEEK OF LAYMEN ON FIRE PRAYER Martha and her sister Annal, were bap- Following the week of prayer, tised at the lay camp. An invitation was extended to the Pastor Dunson, the lay activities writer to conduct the Week of secretary of the North Kerala Sec- educational programme practised Spiritual Emphasis on the campus of tion, joined me at Kottayam in visit- there. Plans are underway to develop Kottarakara High School from July ing churches in the Kottavam, Peer- this institution further. Y. Azariah and his brother Sunder 16 to 24, 1976. medu Tea estates, and further up Three meetings were conducted on the high range areas. It was our are known as "Honest Masons" in daily: the first in the chapel with privilege to lay the foundation stone town! Brother C. Baby owns a the school family; the next in Pana- of a new church at Kuruchy near tailoring-cum-cloth shop and is veli Seminary where 24 young men Kottayam. We visited our be- known as "Honest Tailor" in town! are training in preparation to enter lievers in Mandhanam, Pampady, Forty-one has been baptized as a re- the field with direct evangelism. The Vadavathur and Kottayam. sult of the fine influence exerted by theme of this week of prayer, "In Work in these high range tea these faithful laymen. His Steps" was again emphasized in estates started in 1969. Pastor Azariah These are a few examples of what faithful laymen can do when they let the evening when believers from sur- dedicated his life unreservedly to the rounding churches joined the students spread of the gospel in these remote their lights shine and do their share and faculty for the evening service. places. Brother C, Baby, an active in the support of God's work. On Sabbath, the 24th, all heaven laymen of Punaloor church, joined LAY CAMP AT PAPANASAM rejoiced as the whole congregation the witnessing force and gave strong responded to the altar call. Mrs. support to the work in and around More than 200 laymen representing Vedamuthu, a veteran leader among Santamaparai area. various churches in South Tamil the believers in Kerala, and who has Four faithful laymen from Deva- Section assembled for a week- guided many a youth toward a service rqrn church of Tamilna du entered end retreat at the beautiful Papana- for God, offered the dedicatory Santhampari estates and started a sam dam site from August 5-7. prayer. small branch Sabbath school which Seventy-nine souls were buried in later developed into a regular Sab- the watery grave as they indicated bath school. Progress did not stop their choice of Jesus as their Saviour there. These brethren with their burn- and 'expressed their fond desire to Abraham, a blind layman with his ing enthusiasm for souls distributed follow Him in joining the Seventh- friend, another blind layman. literature, made home visits. and day Adventist Church. These souls launched the "Bible in the Home" were carefully prepared and brought plan. Mr. Abraham, the leader of to the camp by laymen in the "Win this group is well known in these areas One Each One" plan. as "Saturday Abraham"! because of Two orphans, Martha and her the particular day he keeps as Sab- sister Annal, were among the ones bath. Because of his constant witness, baptized at Papanasam in spite of "Saturday Abraham" has influenced hardship and the tauntings from many to accept the three angels' mes- neighbours. They boldly took their sages. As a result companies have stand for Jesus. been raised and churches organized Can the blind lead the blind? Yes, in and around Santhamparai. Brother Abraham who is physically A new church building is nearing blind leads others who are spiritually completion in Santhamparai on the blind to the marvellous light of this land donated by laymen Y. Azariah truth. He has brought more than two and his brother Sunder. hundred souls into church fellowship Leading laymen C. Baby and through baptism by his tireless and -Brother Chacko opened a school at faithful witnessing. Nedumkantam. Today this self-sup- Let us all, layman and worker porting English medium school has alike do our part in hastening the 196 students (137 day scholars and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ 59 boarders). Many parents from the through active service wherever we tea estates are, impressed with the live. Cf October 1976 11 ]VIODERN WAYS TO HEALTH Immunization

DR.. GLEN G. CHRIST() Director, Better Health Clinic, Sikkim is Imperative

It is being increasingly recognised that preven- tool. Yet early this year, smallpox was wiped off tive measures have a significant part in the contain- the face of. this planet. It can never return to ravage ment of disease. Guarding good health pays far the earth. better dividends than the most sophisticated treat- To be fully effective immunizations must begin ment. Mrs. Ellen G. White was shown the import- in infancy. For later immunizations the whole family ance of the prevention of disease. She strongly can be inoculated together at appropriate intervals. reproves those who are negligent in this aspect Immunizations are freely available and available free of health reform. at every government hospital. Private hospitals "God will not work a miracle to keep those usually charge a small fee. Smallpox vaccination is from sickness who have no care tor themselves, available only at government hospitals. but are continually violating the laws of health and make no efforts to prevent disease."—Medical The usual form of an immunization schedule Ministry, p. 13. is given below. There may be minor variations at One of the important facts of preventive health different hospitals. is immunization from specific illnesses. In India one-fourth of deaths among children are caused by Administration diseases for which immunizations are available. The importance of immunization is underscored by the Most injections are given into the lateral thigh story of smallpox. of infants or into the upper arm in the case of older Smallpox has scourged mankind for centuries children or adults. Different sites are usually used leaving death, disfigurement and blindness in its for each injection. The smallpox is injected into wake. Rameses V, Pharaoh of Egypt died of small- the skin of the upper arm, thigh or heel. Anti-rabies pox in 1100 B.C. Though 3000 years have inter- vaccine is injected into the abdominal muscL vened, no treatment for smallpox has ever been Polio vaccine is given orally in the form of drops. found. In 1967 the WHO initiated the smallpox It is usually unwise to give any immunization eradication programme. Immunization was the only during an acute illness, because the reaction may

AGE IMMUNIZATION ABBREVIATION CODE

0-1 month SMALL PDX, BCG BCG-anti-tuberculosis 3 months DPT, OPV DPT - diptheria-pertussis-tetanus 4 months DPT, OPV OPV - oral polio vaccine 5 months DPT, OPV TAB - anti-typhoid 2 years DPI, OPV, TAB 5 years DPT, OPV, SMALLPDX 6 years BCG, TAB Thereafter Tetanus toxoid every 3 years Smallpox every 3 years TAB every 3 years Anti-cholera every year Anti-rabies on exposure

12 Southern Asia Tidings confuse the picture of the illness. Smallpox vac- diarrhoea may ensue. There is no reaction to polio cination should be avoided in premature infants vaccine. and in those with eczema or other skin diseases The reaction to smallpox vaccination is more including prickly heat. troublesome and begins from the third to the fifth Cholera vaccine protects the individual for only day after the vaccination. The vaccinated area be- six months. Thus cholera shots should be taken comes red and itching and a collection of pus annually preferably at the start of the summer develops over the next few days. These changes season when cholera is more prevalent. If the family are accompanied by fever, body pains and loss of is to travel during the summer this immunization appetite. Occasionally the whole limb may be assumes greater importance. swollen and a rash appears. The scab falls by the Any bite by a dog or a lick on bruised skin twenty-first day. Care should be taken not to burst should not be ignored especially if the attack was the pustule. If it ruptures it should be covered unprovoked. The dog should be kept under surveil- with a piece of sterile gauze. lance for two weeks. If the dog develops rabies Sound Economic Policy during this period the vaccine should be started immediately. If the dog escapes or is killed, anti- A small injection can forestall sickness, misery rabies vaccination should be taken. No case of re- and possible death. It is also sound economic policy. covery from rabies in India has been recorded. What can be had for free will save hospital bills. Hence the importance of taking proper precautions. Furthermore the denominational employee is liable to forfeit his medical allowances if he does not im- Asia Reactions munize himself according to the Southern Division Working Policy, p. 203. Children most fear the pain at the site of in- It thus behooves every child of God to keep fection. Subsequently redness and swelling develop the temple of his body pure and to practise principles and a mild fever often occurs within 12-24 hours. of health that are in harmony with the teachings Aspirin will bring some relief. Occasionally a brief of the scriptures and the Spirit of Prophecy. ❑

The 25 boarders of the Khurda school, Orissa received an anonymous gift of a blanket each_ Jyotish Barla is the principal of the school.

A short pastoral training institute was conducted at Khurda, Orissa by Pr. P. Devaprasad with the help of the school staff. Four workers and a ministerial stu- dent who attended this meeting pledged to win 45 souls during 1976.

Mr. Paul Snider of Ohio, "USA is an ardent supporter of the work in Central India Union. Besides financially supporting evangelistic crusades he has bought a motor- cycle for all the centurions in the -Union to enable them to better carry out their duties. The twelve are seen with their motor cycles.

October 1976 13 PAGES FROM THE PAST Progress Report 1909 ADRIAN M. PETERSON

The work of Seventh-day Adventists in the was in this year, 1909, that work was commenced nine countries of Southern Asia is well developed in Poona, by Pastor G. F. Enoch, who was located and has expanded into many spheres- of activity. at 9 Khan Road. Another worker on the China side, Even though we now have a large and well-recog- was on his way to establish an outpost near the nised work throughout our Division, this has not Tibetan border. always been so. In Gopalganj, during the East Bengal meetings Our work in Southern Asia is some 80 years a leper, Sadhon Sircar was baptised, and ordinances old, and when it began, it was started by conse- were conducted in East Bengal for the first time. crated men and women from afar, who came here There was a small church building in use on the to share their faith. It was commenced with great Gopalgunj property. difficulty by our able pioneers, who faced many According to the statistics 17 workers came problems and obstacles. They had to begin a new out to India in 1909, including - Pastor and Mrs. work, and did not have the benefit of taking over G. G. Lowry, who were appointed to South India. a work established and developed by others be- Among the "firsts" of the year 1909, was a fore them. Young People's Society formed at Mussoorie on Records of our work before the turn of the May 18, with 27 members. The substantial first century are almost non-existent, and even for a few building erected by Adventists in Southern Asia years this side of 1900, very little is available for was a house for Pastor J. S. James, located near the historian to peruse. However, from 1909 on- Tinnelvelly. This home was dedicated on Thursday wards, we do have bound volumes of "The East- October 14. ern Tidings", and it is from the small pages of this And so from these early beginnings, a glimpse early paper, that we take the information for a look of which we see in the experiences and develop- at the progress of our work in Southern Asia. The ments of the year 1909, has come a work which year? 1909. today has some 80,000 members, and which has There was a Biennial Conference conducted penetrated into many corners in these 9 countries. in Lucknow from December 25, 1908 to January Surely, God is with his people. 4, 1909. Workers came from all areas of Southern Asia to attend the Conference, and it was reported that work is being carried on in 8 languages; FIRST ADVENT OF CHRIST English, Bengali, Hindi, Burmese, Marathi, Tamil, From page 2 Urdu and Santali. The Sanitarium had been transferred from Son of God was then placed in his power. The Calcutta to Mussoorie during the previous year, temptation took so easily with the holy pair in Eden and statistics indicated that it was operating suc- that he hoped by his Satanic power and cunning cessfully in its new location. to overthrow even the Son of God, and thereby On the last Sabbath of the Conference, J. S. save his own life and kingdom. If he could tempt James and J. C. Little were ordained to the gospel Jesus to depart from the will of His Father, his ministry. object would be gained. But Jesus met the tempter Another event of importance which took place with rebuke, "Get thee behind Me, Satan." He was during the Conference, was the organisation of the to bow only to His Father. Satan claimed the king- Church at Lucknow. This special service was con- dom of earth as his, and insinuated to Jesus that ducted by Elder Miller. The Church was re-organ- all His sufferings might be saved; that He need not ised again in December, with 10 members. die to obtain the kingdoms of this world; if He would During the year 1909, the press was trans- worship him He might have all the possessions of ferred from Karmatar to Lucknow, and a new 4 earth, and the glory of reigning over them. But horse power Cundall engine was installed. The Jesus was steadfast. He knew that the time was first issue of "Eastern Tidings" was printed on to come when He would by His own life redeem this press in the month of April. Two new maga- the kingdom from Satan, and that, after a season, zines were registered, "Oriental Watchman", which all in heaven and earth would submit to Him. He later became "Our Times, and "Herald of Health". chose His life of suffering and His dreadful death, The first book from the new location was expo- as the way appointed by His Father that He might sition on "Daniel", printed in Roman Urdu. become a lawful heir to the kingdoms of earth, and Workers were located in many areas, such as have them given into His hands as an everlasting Rangoon, Meikteila, Calcutta, Gopalgunj and possession. Satan also wiil be given into his hands Karachi, and one worker visited Ceylon to investi- to be destroyed by death, never more to annoy gate a work which was developing over there. It Jesus or the saints in glory. 14 Southern Asia Tidings Tookforward to receiving the Southern Asia Tidings by air mail. It will mean much to us to get up-to- date news of Southern Asia and the SOUTHERN ASIA many friends there. We pray that the Lord will be close to you all. Please give our Christian Letters greetings to friends on the Park and Volume 71, No. 10 October 1976 in the Publishing House. FIELD DIRECTORY A. J. Johanson Bangladesh—Box 80, Dacca 2 Arcata, California President D. H. SKAu Tidings indeed gives me the incen- Secretary D. P. REMA tive to participate in the noble work Treasurer S. J. EDWARDS done by Seventh-day Adventists. Most It is a pleasure to go through Burma—Box 977, Rangoon warmly I thank you for sending me "Tidings" and my ;congratulations to President KYAW BAEAY the paper. you. Secretary THEIN SHWE C. S. Major M. Roscoe M. Benjamin Treasurer BA HLA THEIN Indore Ontario, Canada Central India—Box 4565, Bombay 400 008 President R. D. RICHES Secretary R. S. SHINGE Treasurer G. S. PETERSON COMING EVENTS Northern-11 Hailey Road, New Delhi 110 001 October 2 Commencement of Health Evangelism President W. H. MATTISON Week. Secretary I. M. CHAND October 16 Sabbath School Visitors Day. Treasurer J. I. KHONGHAT October 21 Conclusion of Annual Council at General Pakistan—Box 32, Lahore Conference. President A. M. AxBAR October 23 Temperance Offering in Washington. Secretary G. C. JOHNSON November 6 Commencement of Week of Prayer. Treasurer Z. M. ZIJBAID November 13 Week of Sacrifice offering. South India—Box 120, Bangalore November 17 Elder D. A. Roth, commencement of 560 052 Itinerary in Southern Asia. President D. R. WArrs November 17 Elder D. H. Johnson, commencement of Secretary D. S. DAVID Itinerary in Southern Asia. Treasurer S. M. MOSES November 18 Elder R. H. Pierson, commencement of Sri Lanka—P.O. Box 1253, Colombo Itinerary in Southern Asia. President B. F. PINGHO November 19 Elder N. R. Dower, commencement of Secretary-Treasurer ... B. A. DODD Itinerary in Southern Asia. November 20 JMV Pathfinders Day. SERVICES ASSOCIATION OF SDA December 8 Commencement of Division meetings at Director D. DAVID Lakpahana in Sri Lanka. Treasurer S. SINGH December 18 Conclusion of Year-End meetings. DIVISION ADVISORY COUNCIL =120196.1.3021.1., Chairman R. S. LOWRY Secretary G. J. CHRISTO "SOUTHERN ASIA TIDINGS" TIDINGS CORRESPONDENCE Financial Secretary ... B. J. WILLIAMS Address change Ass't. W. L. SHARALAYA Please address all correspon- Field Secretary C. H. HAMEL 'or a chmge of address, please fill Field Secretary S. JAMES I the following information, and dence, editorial and circutation to Auditor B. J. WILLIAMS nd to "Southern Asia Tidings," Assoc. V. BENJAMIN )x 15, Poona 411001, India. Editor Communications ... A M. PETERSON Education W. J. MCHENRY Southern Asia Tidings Assoc. MRS. H. LOWRY %ME Box 15 Health & Temperance P. K. PETERSON EVIOUS ADDRESS Poona 411 001 Assoc. R. I. CLARK Lay Activities V. P. Mtrnmut Ministerial Assoc. W. G. LOWRY P.N. Religious Liberty S. JAMES Publishing D. R. L. ASTLEFORD VIE Owned by the Southern Asia Division of Sev- Sabbath School M. D. MOSES 'SENT ADDRESS enth-day Adventists. (Registered officer 151 Assoc. MISS G. THOMAS Second Avenue, Anna Nagar, Madras 600040.) Published by G. J. Christ," for the Southern Stewardship P. C. MA Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists, and Youth s T. S. printed by V. Raju at the Oriental Watchman Publishing House, Salisbury Park, Poona 411001-1446-76. Tidings Editor A. M. PE Signature Ass't er 1976 * The beautiful gardens in the grounds of the Sanitarium Health Food Company in Christchurch, New Zealand are deemed to be the most beautiful in the entire city. These Adventist gardens have secured excellent coverage for the News flas denomination in New Zealand, and have been responsible,

for interesting several people in the message. * Paulose P. Varghese, pastor of the Pathanamthitta church, Kerala conducted a series of evangelistic meetings * Adventist World Radio, the Adventist short wave at Elantheor. In spite of the many hindrances and oppo- broadcasting station in Europe has received some 15,000 sitions he faced he was able to successfully bring a number letters during the past 3 .years. About 50 of these have of souls to Christ. come from listeners in Southern Asia. * Believers from the Districts of Quilon and Alleppey * One man who listens to AWR-Europe wrote in and in Kerala met for a fellowship meeting at Pathanam- said he was ready for baptism and please send a minister. thitta on August 15. The meeting was addressed by When the minister finally arrived, he found 12 people Prs. M. A. James, C. N. John, K. C. Zachariah and ready for baptism, all fully prepared through the work John P. Thomas from the Union. This is the first of of the AWR listener. many meetings to be held in different parts of the above mentioned districts. * Figures just released by the General Conference Stat- istical Department indicate. that at December 31, 1975, * New business manager for the Lakeside Medical Centre Seventh-day Adventist membership in the 10 organised in Kandy is Mr. Rex Rabot who was previously manager Divisions stood at 2,805,116. This represents an increase of the Lakpahana Press in Colombo. of more than 600,000 during the past 5 years. * 70,000 people were evacuated from the island of * The Division with the largest membership is North Guadeloupe in the Caribbean, including 1000 Seventh-day America with 520,842 members. Smallest Division is now Adventists. Tte, evacuation was ordered as a safety Southern Asia with its 91,699 members. measure because of an expected eruption from a nearby volcano. The volcano did erupt, but no one was killed, * Fastest growth rate is recorded in Southern Asia, which increased its membership in 5 years by 50%. The Division * A large new office complex for the headquarters of which received the greatest number of accessions is the the South American Division has just been dedicated. It Inter-American Division, which received 140,000 new mem- is located in Brasilia the capital city r-f Brazil. bers during the 5 year period under review. * The Polish Spiritual Seminary, Warsaw, K.V. Verghese, assistant professor of economics at is this year celebrating its 50th Since its in- Spicer, was awarded a Ph. D. degree by the Poona Univer- ception, this Adventist Seminary has graduated 350 minis- sity for his thesis "Housing Problem in India 1901-1971." ters who have entered denominational work. He dealt with certain important aspects of the Indian hous- ing problem and examined its effects on several commu- * The first general Adventist camp meeting for the deaf nities. Dr. Verghese has since been appointed as the head was held recently on an Adventist property in Utah, U.S.A. of the Economic Department at Spicer College. Fifty two people attended, including Elder Arthur Spring, who is the first deaf man ;to be ordained as an Adventist * A former school teacher has consecrated her life's pastor. dream, a plain gray church she built with her own money and a little help from her friends. Rushia West conceived * A 76 year old lay preacher in the Philippines conducted the idea of erecting a nondenominational church so her another evangelistic effort earlier this year, which resulted neighbours would not have to travel several miles to the in the organisation and dedication of a new Adventist nearest church. The foundation was laid 20 years ago. Church. Problems arose, but the little building in East Granbury, Connecticut, is finally completed. Sixty people were on * A youth camp was conducted recently at the Mirigama hand when Daniel Fider, a lay preacher from the Seventh- Scout Training Centre in Sri Lanka. Youth and Juniors day Adventist Church in Hartford, preached the first participated and the camp was visited by several Govern- sermon. ment officials. * The French edition of the "Signs of the Times" is this year celebrating the centenary of its publication. The first It is with sincere sorrow and edition in French was published by J. N. Andrews at Basel, regret that we announce the sud- Switzerland in July 1876. den passing of the Sri Lanka * The Conference Office in the North New Zealand city Union President, Pastor B. F. of Auckland has 3 times been entered by thieves. The latest attack severely damaged the building and its interior, Pingho on Friday, September 17, but the thieves got only about $50. in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Life sketch will appear in the next issue of ome time agdt, a -Catholic Convent in Kyogle, Aus- was purchard by the local Seventh-thy Adventists. the Tidings. recently deAcated as an Adventist Church. I

Registered No. PNC-29