November 15, 2008 In this issue VIA continues mission in Pacific
Volunteer re-entry at Jindabyne
Making financial sense A mock refugee camp reminded Avondale College staff members and students of their privileged status, while also raising awareness of poverty. MAD about poverty: students take a stand Cooranbong, New South Wales
n Avondale College staff member and made a “huge statement” because students students challenged their classmates could not only see it but also experience liv- and colleagues to make poverty his- ing in it. Those who chose the latter—about tory as part of the college’s first Make 20 each evening—slept under tarpaulins and A Difference (MAD) Week, run from Oc- ate food made from rice and rolled oats. tober 13 to 18. Reflecting on the movie Invisible Chil- A range of activities and events—high- dren, which those in the camp watched lighted by the construction of a mock refugee on Thursday evening, Ms Parsons says, KickStart camp in the middle of the Lake Macquarie “It opened everyone’s eyes. They realised campus—raised awareness for poverty and why they were doing this and they got to other social justice issues. The camp operated see who they were helping.” raises funds for 40 hours, beginning Wednesday after- On the Wednesday, representatives from noon and ending Friday morning. the Adventist Development and Relief Agen- Coordinator Jessica Parsons, president cy (ADRA) Australia, Adventist Volunteer for ministry of student club One Mission, says the camp (Continued on page 4) ISSN 0819-5633 editorial
It is the conclusion of the conversa- tion, not the opening demand. “Go and sin no more”
few years ago, I volunteered is far more complicated. crouching woman, He was at risk should occasionally as an on-air presenter In many situations, what we do, how any one of her accusers decide he was wor- for a community Christian radio we act and the choices we make are not thy to throw his stone. station. As many such radio sta- so readily divorced from who we are. To Then, with the accusers gone and the tionsA do, from time to time, we would many people, “hating the sin” feels like rest of the crowd surrounding them, Jesus invite listeners to call in with their song hating the sinner or “loving the sinner” goes still further to defuse the risk to the requests. feels like loving the sin. Often, neither the woman. By His own definition, Jesus was I distinctly remember one such request lovers/haters or the loved/hated are careful entitled to lead the stoning. He had never we received because of the song title and the or adept at managing and understanding sinned—and He was offended by the sin scenarios it suggested. The caller dedicated the nuances of such relationships. she had committed. But after she reported the request to a specific person, giving us Naturally, this problem does not exist the departure of her accusers, Jesus sim- her name and requesting the song “Go and if we simply abandon the concept of sin. ply says, “Neither do I condemn you” (see Sin No More” by Christian artist Rebecca Perhaps this is why even many Christians John 8:11). St James. Of course, the song is inspired by try to get by with a faith without all the Then, and only then—after putting the story of the woman caught in adultery sin “hang-ups.” If nothing or no-one is re- Himself on the line physically, standing and brought to Jesus (see John 8:1-11). ally sinful, we don’t have to worry about up for the woman in the face of her accus- There may have been a remarkable relating to sinners. ers and surrendering His “right” to carry personal story behind this dedication or it On the other hand, if we can just skip out the punishment she “deserved”—does might simply have been a favourite song straight to the “Go and sin no more” part, Jesus send her on her way with the com- about a much-loved story about Jesus. But we will be able to set the sinners around us mand, “Go and sin no more” (see John we also imagined circumstances in which straight. Then they will be either reformed 8:11). It is the conclusion of the conversa- requesting such a song and “sending it or repulsed by our righteous prompting tion, not the opening demand. By risking out” to some wayward daughter, sister or and, again, we don’t have to worry about Himself, He has earned her trust and His friend could have been a means of deliv- relating to sinners. call to righteousness is more powerful for ering some kind of rebuke, to pass judg- Jesus took neither approach. When the its foundation in His own righteous acts ment or prod a conscience. As I remember woman caught in adultery was hurled at of self-sacrifice and embrace. it, we played the song but were careful not His feet, Jesus stooped and wrote in the This is more demanding than a song to overemphasise the dedication aspect of dust as the angry accusers waited expect- request to a Christian radio station and the request. antly. At their continued questions, Jesus much deeper than a formulaic, “Hate the It’s a question that arises every time we stood up, told those without sin to start sin; love the sinner.” In Jesus—and su- talk seriously about sin: how do we, as peo- throwing their stones, then bent down premely in His death—we see both the ple who seek to follow a sinless God, relate again. Next to the woman—the target of tragic hatefulness of sin and what it truly to those who wrestle with the reality of sin, the stones. means to love the sinner. as we all do? The common formulation of In those tense few moments, until the “hating the sin but loving the sinner” rolls accusers began to quietly move away, Jesus off the tongue so easily. But in practice, it put Himself on the line. Bent beside the Nathan Brown
Official Paper of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacific Division Seventh-day Associate editor David Edgren 3485 Warburton Highway Adventist Church Editorial assistant Adele Nash Warburton, Vic 3799, Australia ABN 59 093 117 689 Editorial assistant Jarrod Stackelroth Phone: (03) 5965 6300 Fax: (03) 5966 9019 www.adventist Copyeditor Talitha Simmons Email Letters: [email protected] connect.org Editorial secretary Kristel Rae Email Newsfront: [email protected] Layout Kym Jackson Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Vol 113 No 44 Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacific Division mailed within Cover: Ann Stafford Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. www.record.net.au Other prices on application. Printed weekly.
2 November 15, 2008 news VIA continues mission in Pacific Brisbane, Queensland decided that this was an important way to serve,” he reflects. ministry that has contributed to Seeking a specific way to serve, some 39,000 baptisms in the South the then-South Pacific Division Pacific in the past 13 years is plan- treasurer supported Mr Morgan on ning to enter a new phase by the a trip to mission areas of the Pacific Aend of this year. Volunteers in Action (VIA), to find out their needs. “I visited a which currently supports 647 volunteer number of areas in the Pacific,” he ministers in seven Pacific nations, is plan- recalls, “expecting that they would ning to become an incorporated entity, and talk about help with building but Participants in a training program sponsored by Volunteers in Action in the Solomon Islands. will see the retirement of founding direc- they said they needed workers to tors Cliff and Val Morgan. take the church’s message into new areas. has done,” he says. “God has been the one “Val and I have run this as a ‘ma-and-pa’ It had an appeal and continues to have an who really made it go. My hopes are that show,” Mr Morgan explains. “So that will appeal.” VIA can continue to develop the potential change but VIA will continue to operate VIA works closely with the local mis- of lay missionaries in the islands to be ef- in conjunction with the South Queensland sions and has contributed substantial funds fective for the nurture and pastoral care Conference and continue to pursue our to equip their volunteers with supervision, each church needs.” mission in much the same way.” training and resources to enhance their But there is another aspect to what prom- VIA’s work has raised almost $A7.5 mil- ministry. In the past four years, 128 VIA ises to be an active second retirement for lion and seen an average of nine people volunteers have been funded to spend at Mr Morgan. “There are two parts to what baptised per day as a result of the ministry least one year in theology training at one VIA does,” he explains, “sponsoring lay of VIA-supported volunteers since 1996. of the Adventist Church’s training schools. missionaries and our roofing projects. I am “God and many people with brown and VIA has also partnered with local mis- going to keep working with the roofing white faces have been very good to Vol- sions, and other organisations, to provide projects because if you grow a church, you unteers in Action over almost 13 years of motorbikes and canoes to assist outreach need someone to look after it and a build- operation,” says Mr Morgan. and evangelism. ing for the people to worship in. After early retirement from his career as But amid all these achievements, Mr “I have a dream to roof 1000 churches a geography teacher, Mr Morgan served for Morgan says the highlight of the 13 years before I finish. So far, we have done 721, a year at Pacific Adventist College—now has been “seeing how God’s hand has been so with continued good support, I think we Pacific Adventist University—and spent over everything. should be able to have it done within two time in Russia helping build churches. “I “It has been a revelation of what God to three years.”—Nathan Brown
team conducted kids clubs. The with recovery systems, such as a mission team was well support- miniature parachute, glider, tumble ed by the local church members or helicopter system. As part of an of Nuku’alofa church, especially ongoing tradition of 20 years, the the “8 o’clock for Jesus” English- rocketry experience at Avondale speaking congregation. On the School is facilitated and led by Year ◆◆On October 2, Pastor Dan- last Sabbath, Pastor Przybylko NSW, launched their model rock- 6 teacher Graham Head. Model iel Przybylko and a group of 13 conducted six baptisms. The team ets at Cooranbong Airport run- rocketry is a practical part of the young people from Auburn and left Tonga the next day, leaving way. Rockets of all shapes and sizes Year 6 Space and Flight study in Concord churches in Sydney, NSW, behind a Bible worker to follow were put to the test as 70 students Science. The whole of Term 3 is arrived in the kingdom of Tonga. up more than 60 people who watched anxiously for a problem- divided into four weeks learning Pastor Przybylko, assisted by Sau made a decision to be baptised. free take-off and the safe recapture about the theory of flight and five Finau and the team, conducted —Manu Latu of their aircraft. Some student’s weeks on individual construction. the “Thy Kingdom Come” series rockets were launched several After passing a test on the theory for two weeks from October 5 to ◆◆The tranquility of September 25 times without mishap. Distances covered, students are rewarded for 19. The program included health disappeared as the Year 6 students covered ranged from 50 metres to their efforts and they launch their presentations and some of the at Avondale School, Cooranbong, 1 kilometre. All rockets were built rockets.—Susan Rogers
Believe in christ > live the life @ www.edgeonweb.org
November 15, 2008 3 news Avondale School MAD about poverty: receives visit students take a stand from mayor (Continued from page 1) ing the Friday evening worship program Cooranbong, New South Wales “7.28.” The students came to the front of Service, Asian Aid, International Chil- the church and held up a sign that read n mid-October, Greg Piper, mayor of dren’s Care (ICC), Pacific Yacht Ministries, “Make poverty history.” The call came as the Lake Macquarie City Council and Southlakes Women’s Refuge, student clubs part of a worldwide Christian campaign member of Australian parliament for COSMOS and One Mission, and Avondale called Micah Challenge, which aims to Lake Macquarie, visited students at College church groups Crankt and Tools halve absolute poverty by 2015. IAvondale School. He spoke with the Year spoke at student assembly. The MAD Week message even came 10 and 11 students about local, state and MAD Week coordinator Brad Watson, a to students at Avondale Schools, Central federal parliamentary systems in Australia lecturer in development studies and geog- Coast Adventist School, Macquarie College and outlined what each level of government raphy in the Faculty of Arts, coordinated and Toronto Adventist Primary School, does, as well as what authorities and respon- a rare meeting between representatives as Mr Watson and his team spoke at the sibilities they hold. from ADRA, Asian Aid and ICC later in schools’ chapels. Mr Piper encouraged the students to be- the day. The four discussed commonali- Student Associated Ministries leader come involved in the country’s civic system, ties and the possibility of meeting again in Krystle Praestiin says the week reminded particularly though their opportunity to vote the future. students of their privileged status. “We when they turn 18. A question session fol- During the Thursday colloquium, Mr have a roof over our heads, clean drink- lowed his presentation, in which students Watson and Asian Aid chief executive of- ing water, health care and are free from were able to explore areas covered in depth. ficer Sharon Heise also presented findings abuse and forced prostitution, and we have The discussion explored some processes in- from their research into uterine prolapse the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ and the volved, as well as responsibilities earned, by in Nepal: “the impact of hysterectomy on freedom to worship Him.” She hopes the being active members of the community. 100 poor women.” week will do more than raise awareness. “I Peter Lindsay, head of secondary at A COSMOS car wash the same day hope God has used MAD Week to move Avondale School, says, “It was a good raised $A220 for Asian Aid’s School for people to take action.” opportunity for students to get relevant Speech and Hearing Impaired in Kollegal, MAD Week coincided with the United information and be encouraged to be- southern India. Nation’s annual International Day for come involved in their community.” Some 220 students responded to ADRA the Eradication of Poverty on October —Susan Rogers Australia chief executive officer Jonathan 17.—Megan Galusha More @ www.avondaleschool.nsw. Duffy’s call to stand up against poverty, dur- More @ www.avondale.edu.au edu.au
ciation, a not-for-profit organi- ◆◆Correction: The youth group sation. “Make a positive impact pictured on the front of RECORD, on the world around you” was October 25, is the Ipswich church, this year’s theme. The tale tells Qld, not the Landsborough youth how one litterbug was arrest- group as reported. We apolo- ed by shark police and brought gise for misplacing these young before the octopus for his crimes. people. the program, many of whom Litterbug sees the devastation are not Christians. The helpers, ◆◆Prescott Primary Southern, caused by his carelessness and ◆◆For the 12th consecutive year, along with the kids, got to hear SA, came equal second at the decides to clean up his act. Coor- the Moora church, WA, ran their about God’s love for them. The Wakakirri Festival South Aus- dinators Suzie Crowe and Eliza- Happy Holiday Club program theme of the week was “News- tralian Primary Grand Finals beth Green, along with school over the October school holidays, tart,” which focused on how we with their story-dance “Litterbug principal Christine Clark, were October 6 to 10. More than 100 can glorify God by living good, Learns a Lesson” on October 23. impressed by how far the chil- children attended over the week, healthy lives. The kids learned Wakakirri is a festival of perform- dren went in the competition with an average of 60 a day. There they can also make a new start ing and visual arts for schools, and their level of performance.— was a lot of support from com- with Jesus. There was a Bible les- organised by The Wakakirri Asso- South Australian Conference munity people who helped with son, crafts and singing each day.
Days and offerings: ◆ December 6—Missions extension offering
4 November 15, 2008 news KickStart raises funds for motorbike ministry Tertiary ministry
Tauranga, New Zealand from the Sanitarium Health Food Com- pany and Adventist Development and alive and well in Fiji he KickStart community project Relief Agency New Zealand. Mana, Fiji held a fundraising dinner on Oc- Natalia Grobler, a lawyer and teacher tober 11 at the Omokoroa Coun- who works as communications and event ore than 130 students from nine try Estate, to raise awareness and coordinator for KickStart, says, “The institutions around Fiji’s main is- Tsponsorship for the program. KickStart dinner was a huge success and we had land of Viti Levu gathered for the takes underprivileged children motor- loads of positive feedback. Many of our fourth annual Adventist Students bike riding and is run by a team of local guests left feeling excited and inspired MAssociation (ASA) Fiji convention, held young people, many of whom are from by what God has achieved through us in from October 9 to 12 on Mana, an island the Tauranga Adventist church, who are the past year. in the Mamanuca group.The theme of the passionate about mentoring and building “We are continuing to see these chil- convention was “Developing spirituality relationships with “at-risk” children. dren grow,” she adds. “On the camp at for productivity.” The children enrolled in the KickStart Tui Ridge in September, we managed to Pastor Nick Kross, associate director of program have been removed from their secure the opportunity to take the chil- Adventist Youth Ministries for the South parents’ custody and are now under the dren up Mount Tarawera on a three- Pacific Division, and Dr Philip Rodionoff, care of Homes of Hope, an organisation hour guided tour. The kids were beside ASA Australia’s staff advisor, also attended that works to keep siblings together in safe themselves with excitement, exploring the the convention. houses run by house parents. volcano and entering the crater down the Apart from sessions with guest speakers, The KickStart children were the special steep scoria slides. students had the opportunity to take part in guests for the night, and video footage of “We had an absolutely awesome week- activities, including a service project helping highlights from a recent KickStart camp end. For the first time, the children were the Mana Adventist Primary school, praise held at Tui Ridge featured on the night. eager to take turns praying and openly and worship services on the beach, and a so- Simon Bridges, National’s candidate for shared about their pasts and spiritual cial night concert. Students appreciated the Tauranga, and his wife, Natalie, attended matters. KickStart is proud to have been time of spiritual and social renewal. the dinner, along with community mem- consistently active and involved in these The ASA Fiji AGM was held during the bers. Well-used motorbikes and trailers children’s lives for one year, and to have convention and a constitution—the first lined the entrance to the venue, and an reflected the unconditional love and reli- ever for ASA Fiji—was adopted, with new elderly community member pulled up on ability of God. It’s our wish to continue executives voted in. his mobility scooter, ready to race the line to help these children rebuild trust in There are more than 400 ASA Fiji up of Suzuki LTZ90 quad bikes. people and God.”—RECORD staff/Nata- members and the organisers hope to have Other guests included Homes of Hope lia Grobler more students at the convention next year. CEO Hilary Price, and representatives More @ www.kick-start.co.nz —RECORD staff/Salu Manoa
The Moora church plans to run ◆◆The recently opened Mosaic concluded a successful “Special the program again next year. church, Palmerston North, NZ, Event” weekend from October —Heather Chapman (see News, October 18) cele- 10 to 11. The focus was “God’s brated not only its first baptisms plan for successful living.” Pro- ◆◆A Year 7 student at Brook- but also a double dedication on fessors David and Carol Task- dale Adventist School, WA, has October 25. Neil and Jami Wal- er, from Adventist International been awarded as runner-up in a up received a gift voucher for lace were baptised, committing Institiute of Advanced Studies in state-wide competition. More- Australian Geographic shops and recommitting their lives to the Philippines, both presented na Evans (pictured) competed for their creative contributions the Lord. As part of the special over the weekend, and the peo- against nearly 200 primary and to the competition. Swan River afternoon service held in the ple appreciated the freshness of secondary school students, in Trust communications manag- Longburn Adventist College their message and the simplic- designing and building real or er Wendy Yorke said she was chapel, the Wallaces dedicated ity of their delivery. Audience fantasy macroinvertebrate crea- delighted by the research stu- their two boys, Gus (3) and Jesse members also came from Port tures from recycled materials in dents had done to provide infor- (5 weeks).—Julene Deurksen Augusta church and the Revela- this year’s “Create a Creature” mation on their creature includ- Kapao tion Seminar that is currently competition. Swan Canning ing its habitat, food source and running.—South Australian regional winners and runners- lifecycle.—Tanya Hort ◆◆The Whyalla church, SA, just Conference
Avondale COLLEGE, DEGREES WITH A CHRISTIAN FOCUS @ www.Avondale.edu.AU
November 15, 2008 5 news Orewa organises Volunteer re-entry program vegetarian banquet held at Jindabyne Orewa, New Zealand Jindabyne, New South rewa Adventist church member Wales Noeline Cutts held a banquet last month for her town in celebration he South Pacific Division of World Vegetarian Day, held on Adventist Volunteer Serv- OctoberO 1. ice (AVS) held a re-entry The candlelight-and-roses vegetarian program at the Adventist banquet was Ms Cutts’s way of sharing the TAlpine Village, near Jinabyne, for Adventist lifestyle with her community. The volunteers who have come to the majority of the 85 guests were non-church conclusion of their service from members, and included some from the local September 25 to 28. vegetarian society. Apart from the volunteers who Volunteers at the re-entry program. “We make friends when we are hospita- had served at the Charlestown, Gateway their old networks, which have changed ble, and [the banquet] is designed to show and Avondale churches, there were volun- as the volunteer has changed,” says Pastor we can have an enjoyable time without al- teers returning from India, Thailand, USA, Bolst. “People can also wonder why the cohol and cigarettes,” says Ms Cutts. “When Canada, Japan, Denmark and Samoa. All church is so slack—thinking they should we sit alongside people and show a genuine 28 volunteers in attendance had served for be doing more. People question what to interest in them, they will respond positively 12 months. do if they don’t have any set goals, as eve- to what we have to say.” Talks on issues facing volunteers on re- rything for them for the past 12 months Ms Cutts is already planning another entry were presented, including informa- has revolved around mission and being the banquet next year, thanks to overwhelming tion about stages of returning from volun- centre of attention.” support.—Melody Tan teer positions, transitioning and expected Apart from the talks, volunteers en- issues. Some of the problems volunteers joyed outdoor activities, including hiking face when returning home from a volunteer Dead Horse Gap Mountain in the Snowy position include confusion, ambivalence, Mountains. resentment, anger or self-righteousness, as AVS hosts a volunteer re-entry program well as adjusting to a “new self,” according each year.—Adele Nash to Pastor Bob Bolst, director of AVS. More @ http://volunteers.adventist “Volunteers usually face readjusting to connect.org/ Guests at Orewa’s vegetarian banquet.
◆◆The Seventh-day Adventist-run ing and personal interviews. The in early October. He joined more Adventist Church for its positive Language School in Seoul received school received the same award in than 2000 congregation mem- role in society and applauded a 2008 Best Brand Award in the 2003. Launched in 1969, the Seoul- bers for the worship service at the the values it promotes. He also “Language Education Category,” based institute draws more than newly-built Eben-Ezer Adventist visited the church’s elementary based on a countrywide consumer 50,000 students each year from church on October 4. Eben-Ezer school, where more than 50 per survey involving more than 1.5 across South Korea. Employees of is one of 14 Romanian Advent- cent of the students are children million Koreans. The award makes multinational companies requiring ist churches in the region, mak- of Romanian immigrants.—ANN the language school a “reputable English proficiency are attracted to ing up about half of the Spanish institution” and “increases its value,” the network for their quality, small Union membership, said Pas- ◆◆Catholic bishops meeting in says director Kim Si Young. Best class size and instructors from Eng- tor Teodor Hutanu, president Rome say they want the Word of Brand awards, sponsored by Korea lish-speaking countries—some- of the Romanian Union Confer- God to be heard through what Consumers’ Forum and the Korea thing not always found among ence. Mr Basescu’s visit—widely could be considered an unlikely Economic Daily, allows participants hundreds of competitors.—ANN covered by Romanian television channel: iPods. The bishops say to rank brands and products based and newspapers—generated the printed text is no longer suf- on customer satisfaction. This year’s ◆◆Romanian president Traian interest in the Adventist Church ficient, at a time when communi- survey was conducted through Basescu visited a Seventh-day and raised its profile in the com- cation has been transformed by online polls, postcards, telemarket- Adventist church in Madrid, Spain, munity. Mr Basescu thanked the technology.—The Age
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6 November 15, 2008 news Eastward celebrates Chaplains find new third graduation direction for schools in NZ Rollands Plains, New South Wales Auckland, New Zealand astward Missionary College saw its haplains from Seventh-day third class of Bible workers gradu- Adventist schools in New ate on June 29. The graduation ad- Zealand have left an inau- dress was delivered by Pastor Gary gural meeting inspired to ERoberts. Ccommit more time to schools and Eastward’s 2008 outreach campaign was be more intentional in making a held in Taree, with more than 100 people difference in the lives of the stu- from the community attending the 21-night dents they come in contact with. series conducted by the students. This re- The “Chaplains meet,” an ini- sulted in eight people requesting baptism, tiative of Adventist Education with more than 50 people needing follow- in New Zealand Pacific Union Chaplains with Jerry Unser (back right), up Bible studies. Conference (NZPUC) and the primary presenter of the meetings. Eastward teacher Steven Richards says, New Zealand conferences, was held at the gram for the salvation of our children,” “The students participated in both organ- end of September to help chaplains clar- she says. “They can provide support and ising and running the program, with the ify their vision and define their purpose, nurture for the spiritual life of the stu- aim of bringing their Bible-study contacts as well as providing them with practical dents, support our teachers, and contribute from their door-to-door work.” strategies to use in their ministry. Jerry toward getting the whole school commu- Two graduates have been employed to Unser, keynote speaker for the program, nity to work together toward their defined help Pastor David Kosmeier follow up with inspired the chaplains in the multiple roles vision and goals.” the various contacts from the series. they can play. Often also serving as church pastors, Students have also been involved in an According to Lanelle Cobbin, curricu- chaplains have other responsibilities. Many evangelism program in the local Rollands lum specialist for Adventist Education in have limited time at schools and are unsure Plains community, providing practical help NZPUC, chaplains play an instrumental of what is required of them. to people as needed. role in the special character—or Advent- “But they see the potential,” says Mrs The school is running a health evange- ist ethos—of the school. Cobbin. “Their role is of paramount im- lism training course as well, which covers “Chaplains have the potential to provide portance to build the special character of foundational Bible subjects, natural rem- such rich support to the whole school pro- our schools.”—Melody Tan edies, hydrotherapy, anatomy and physiol- ogy, and nutrition. The health evangelism course will continue next year, and 14 stu- PAU enjoys “blessed” Festival of Faith dents are already studying health program Port Moresby, Papua New Jesus.”After her sermon, she extended presentation with Alison Maticic and Sibilla Guinea an open invitation to the people and they Johnson.—Brett Higgins/RECORD staff walked to the front to commit or rededi- More @ www.eastward.edu.au he Pacific Adventist University’s cate their lives. (PAU) week-long Festival of Faith During the week, Dr Williams also concluded on September 13, with shared with staff and students her story students and staff describing it as a of becoming a born-again Christian after T“blessed, inspiring week.” being an atheist. Dr Hyveth Williams, the first female sen- PAU staff member Beverly Kaleva says, ior pastor and first black female pastor in “As I reflected on the Festival of Faith, I the Adventist Church in the USA, was the was reminded of God’s grace being suf- guest speaker for the festival. Dr Williams ficient for all, regardless of how deep into is currently the senior pastor of the Campus sin we think we’ve gone. God makes His Hill Adventist church in Loma Linda, Cali- face to shine on us and will cleanse us from (From left to right) Ricky Sharpe, Aaron fornia, USA, and is also an adjunt professor unrighteousness. God chooses us and will Ruck, Warren Aus, Jessica Weinheimer, of religion at Loma Linda University. get us to where He knows we can best serve Steven Richards, Kate Stanley, Phil Dr William’s final topic on the Sab- Him.”—Harina Tuilau and Pastor Gary Roberts bath morning was “Even so, come Lord More @ www.pau.ac.pg/ following the Eastward graduation.
November 15, 2008 7 feature
Kids and food: Can we do better? he life expectancy of Australian Focus on fruit and vegetables: children could be cut by two years Try to eat fruit instead of drinking fruit if current levels of obesity and over- juice and have vegetables as snacks, as well weight continue, according to the as in main meals. Cut fruit is more likely TNational Preventative Health Taskforce to be eaten than whole fruit. Try it with a Paper released by Nicola Roxon, Austral- dip of yoghurt and honey. ia’s federal Minister for Health and Age- ing. And results of the recent Australian Top up calcium: children’s survey show most kids are not Dried fruit, nuts and green vegetables eating enough fruit and vegetables, most all contribute calcium, along with calcium- likely contributing to high levels of obes- fortified soy and dairy. ity in children. According to the just-released National Reduce saturated fat: Children’s Nutrition and Physical Ac- Meat, cakes, biscuits and other processed tivity Survey, only 1 per cent of teenag- foods often contain saturated fat—the bad ers are eating the recommended three to fat that affects our heart health. Try to re- four serves of whole fruit each day, and place these with legumes, fruits and veg- only one in five younger children—and etables whenever possible. just one in 20 older children—are eating enough vegetables. Choose water: When it comes to nutrients, most older The survey found kids mostly meet their Frozen fruit pops girls (12–16 years) don’t get enough cal- fluid requirements but remember, water is (for kids party or after school) cium and half don’t meet requirements the best option. for magnesium. The research also found 16 paddle-pop sticks the majority of children are eating too Get active: 2 large just ripe bananas much saturated fat and sugar, and almost To maintain a healthy weight, it’s im- 1 punnet strawberries, hulled a quarter were found to be overweight portant to keep active. Limiting TV, video ¼ pineapple, peeled or obese. games and computer time encourages kids Juice of orange So what can we do to help our kids get to seek more active entertainment. R enough of the foods they need and less of 1. Peel all fruit and cut into 3 centime- the foods they don’t? For more tips on healthy eating for the family, call us tre-sized pieces. on 1800 HEALTH (1800 432 584) in Australia or 0800 2. Soak banana in orange juice. 100 257 in New Zealand to speak with one of our di- 3. Thread fruit onto sticks. Make home a whole-food zone: etitians or nutritionists. It is much harder to convince your kids 4. Place in a container and freeze for And be sure to ask for a free copy of our Everyday Es- four hours until ready to serve. Serve to eat fruit and vegetables when “treat” sentials cookbook, which includes kids’ recipes and foods, like chips, biscuits or soft drinks, ideas for nutritious treats. Order a copy online at frozen. Makes 16. are available. Most kids get opportunities
8 November 15, 2008 feature
He risked it all—for us by Fiona McClure
ow is it with you? Are you Godhead. For example, Jesus is talking to sin, separating ourselves from God. having problems in the fight of His disciples about His return and says, as What blessings God gives us, too: eter- faith? Are you discouraged? Do recorded in Matthew 24:36: “No-one knows nal life, love, grace, faith, hope, peace, joy, you try and try, only to become about that day or hour, not even the angels patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness Hdisheartened? Are you focusing on your in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Fa- and self-control. We can align ourselves sins instead of focusing on Jesus? ther.”* So although they are one, it doesn’t with God and have a personality that is in There was Jesus hanging on the cross and mean each Person of the Godhead is exactly some way a dimension of God—to God’s He had been there for awhile. The blood the same as the other in thought. glory. was dripping from the wounds inflicted John 17:20-23 records Jesus’ words as So what does God’s grace mean to you? on Him. Some had probably congealed Does God’s grace encompass you, enthral already but some blood was fresh. But, In my mind’s eye, I you, distract you and take your whole at- as well as His intense physical sufferings, tention? Are you—am I—devoted to it? He was suffering mental anguish as Sin- see Jesus willing to Is it guiding us every second of the day? bearer for the entire human race. Grace can do all that. Grace will hold us At this point in The Desire of Ages, give up everything and never let us go! Ellen White points out that “the Saviour We will never have to go through could not see through the portals of the for you and me. what Christ went through if we accept tomb. Hope did not present to Him His His sacrifice for us. A way has been coming forth from the grave as conqueror, he prays for all believers, “I pray also for made to help us endure the assaults of the or tell Him of the Father’s acceptance of His those who will believe in me through their evil one while we are here and to give us sacrifice” (page 753). She goes on to say: “He message, that all of them may be one, Fa- a future without evil forever. Jesus said, feared that sin was so offensive to God that ther, just as you are in me and I am in you. “I am the way and the truth and the life” Their separation would be eternal.” . . . that they may be one as we are one: I (John 14:6). What a sacrifice! We know the Father, in them and you in me.” Jesus said we can We don’t have to be miserable. When the Son and the Holy Spirit are one but be one with God! Because Jesus risked this we align our will with God’s will so He here was the Godhead splitting up—or ultimate loss, we are invited into divine receives all the glory and honour that so Christ feared. I know I don’t like to community. The unity They have, we can is rightfully His, we will through Him be separated from those I love, whether have with Him. “shine like stars in the universe” (Philip- through distance, circumstances or death. I often thought this means we don’t have pians 2:15). R So in my mind’s eye, I see Jesus willing to a mind of our own—we become like ro- give up everything for you and me. This bots. But in light of this evidence, I can no *All Bible quotations are from the New International thought remains with me and leads me on longer think that. There is an “independ- Version. through life. ence,” a will of our own. We can align it Although the Godhead is one, there is a with God’s will and receive all the blessings Fiona McClure writes from distinction between the three Persons of the His will encompasses, or we can choose to Cooranbong, New South Wales.
November 15, 2008 9
feature iStockphoto.com Making financial sense by G Edward Reid
f your eyes are open at all, you and are, in fact, trying to take advantage when judging whether a family earned know the world is presently walking of their customers. enough to qualify for a mortgage. As a re- an economic tightrope and praying the Just a generation ago, the average family sult, both families and banks started down wind doesn’t start blowing. The collapse simply couldn’t get into the kind of finan- the path of counting Mum’s income as an Iin the US housing market the past couple cial hole that has become so familiar today. essential part of the monthly budget—and of years, the recent skyrocketing price of The reason was straightforward: a middle- this practice has spread to other nations. oil, the wild fluctuations in stock markets class family couldn’t borrow much money. This allowed families to qualify for a more around the world, combined with several High-limit, all-purpose credit cards didn’t expensive house and, at the same time, start- major mortgage and investment companies exist for those with average means. There ed the upward spiral of home prices. filing for bankruptcy, all spell serious trou- were no mortgages available for more than A generation ago, it wasn’t possible to ble. Add to this the fact that consumers have 100 per cent of a home’s value and no of- overload on a mortgage. Mortgage lenders run up huge credit card debts and one must fers in the mail for second and third home didn’t allow clients to yield to that temp- wonder what lies ahead economically. equity loans. tation. But today, the game is different. The leaders of government are con- As a result, a family that wanted to bor- It has become routine for lenders to issue cerned. Stimulus packages, rescue plans row money had only a handful of options. unmanageable mortgages. In the banks’ and a succession of crisis meetings have Instead of running up debt anonymously, a greed to draw more and more families tried to address the situation, but things prospective borrower was forced to meet a into their interest-making machine, the only seem to have gotten worse. stern-looking banker face to face. Families down payment—once a critical device for were asked to produce past tax returns and screening potential borrowers—virtually What happened? pay stubs, credit references, and projected disappeared. Mortgage brokers—lending For many years, we could rely on our budgets that showed how they planned to middlemen—made a killing, obscene in- bankers and financial professionals to help repay the money. comes and bonuses as the subprime mort- us avoid the pitfalls of excessive debt and Then in 1975, the US Congress passed gage bubble was growing. bad investments. Now, it seems many fi- the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which nancial institutions have dropped any of stipulated, among other things, that lend- An end-time scenario? the moral standards they had in the past ers could no longer ignore a wife’s income The Scriptures describe the condi-
10 November 15, 2008 feature tion of the world before Christ’s second 2. Spend less than you earn. a mortgage crisis. Debt and its resulting coming. Speaking of men who by greed, Determine to live within your income. bankruptcy are the scourge of our society. extortion and fraud are amassing great The Bible says, “Godliness with content- If you are in serious debt, you must take riches—this would include the mortgage ment is great gain. For we brought nothing drastic measures to get it under control. brokers, credit card companies, commod- into the world, and we can take nothing This means no more credit spending and ity brokers and oil companies—the Bible out of it. But if we have food and clothing, setting up a plan to pay off your debts that says, “You have hoarded wealth in the last we will be content with that. People who you stick with until you are completely debt- days. Look! The wages you failed to pay want to get rich fall into temptation and a free. In some cases, this may mean selling the workmen who mowed your fields are trap and into many foolish and harmful off assets such as extra cars, boats, coin col- crying out against you. The cries of the desires that plunge men into ruin and de- lections, etc. You must get this area of your harvesters have reached the ears of the struction. For the love of money is a root financial life firmly under control or your Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for creditors will eat you alive. in luxury and self-indulgence. You have money, have wandered from the faith and fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter. pierced themselves with many griefs” (1 5. Be a diligent worker. You have condemned and murdered in- Timothy 6:6-10). If you are used to over- This means doing your best to please your nocent men, who were not opposing you” spending, this will be a real discipline but employer or your customers. Ask God for (James 5:3-6*). a necessary one in these times. wisdom to do your work efficiently, so you We know that financial stress in mar- can continue to work when times are dif- riage is now one of the major causes of We must recognise ficult. Be willing to work at whatever job divorce in the Western world. If we really is available that would not violate your want to save the biblical family structure that it’s a time for conscience. and prepare our families to face the end prudent living—a times, we must teach and practice debt 6. Be faithful to God. elimination. We must forget about “keep- time for following the This means that even in trying times, ing up with the Joneses.” After all, the you will maintain your tithes and offer- “Joneses” may be on the verge of bank- biblical principles of ings because ultimately, we are all totally ruptcy. It’s important we do something dependent on God for life, now and in while we can to get ourselves and our money management. eternity. God has given us so many prom- church families on a more secure footing ises of financial success if we will remem- financially. We must teach them to put God 3. Save a little every pay period. ber Him first. Your family cannot afford first, shun debt, help those less fortunate, The lack of a savings account is one of to live without God’s promised wisdom and make it a priority to advance the cause the major reasons people use credit cards and blessing. of God. Let’s review some valuable steps for emergencies and end up paying large we should all take. amounts of interest on emergency spend- 7. Remember this earth is not your final ing. Saving should be as regular as spend- home. What you can do ing. I recommend a payroll deduction to a Someday, everything here will be burned First, we must recognise that it’s a time credit union savings account. Your savings up (see 2 Peter 3:10). Thus, Jesus’ advice to for prudent living—a time for following the account goal should be equivalent to three store up our treasures in heaven is still very biblical principles of money management. to six months of living expenses, and once pertinent (see Matthew 6:19, 20). Our man- Then we must discipline ourselves to put that goal is met, you can shift that money agement today will determine our eternal them into practice. Here are seven points to either saving for major purchases or for destiny tomorrow. that will relieve stress and move families retirement. Remember that when you save Finally, pray that God will give you wis- toward financial freedom: or invest, you must be prudent and avoid dom to deal with your finances in a respon- risky ventures. Don’t put all your assets in sible way. Be wary of unscrupulous people, 1. Get organised. one basket—diversify. who want to sell you a system of debt reduc- Know the state of your personal financ- tion or some miracle cure for your problems. es. Complete a balance sheet by listing all 4. Avoid debt. Trust in God and He will direct your paths your assets in one column and total them Interest is one expense you can live with- (see Proverbs 3:5-10). R up. Then list all of your liabilities (debts) out. Personal or family debt is the underly- *All Bible quotations are from the New International in another column and total them up. For ing reason for the current financial mess. Version. example, the current market value of your For example, if families weren’t in debt Adapted, with permission, from Signs of the Times house should be on the asset side and the and living right at the edge of their ability (US). amount of your home mortgage on the li- financially, when fuel prices rise, we might ability side. Finally, subtract your liabilities be upset but not desperate. If families saved, G Edward Reid is director of from your assets. The result is your net put 20 per cent or more as a down payment stewardship for the North American worth. If the result is a negative figure, you on their homes, and only borrowed what Division, based in Silver Spring, should be concerned. they could afford to pay, we wouldn’t have Maryland, USA.
November 15, 2008 11 letters Righteous solution Liz Bamford, Qld Any of us can fall into “righteousness by sinning” (“Righteous- ness by sinning?” Feature, October 25). All forms of legalism are abhorrent to God. It hung Jesus on the cross, blocks salvation and victory, hides sin, gives a false sense of security, discourages faith growth, causes disunity, uses good works, diet and lifestyle choices to measure faith and truth in others, and has no tolerance of those struggling in sin or the good works of legalism. The solution? Get to know and love one another—not judge— and we will find people yearning for victory over sexual addictions, impatience, anger, lying, gossiping and unforgiveness. Jesus said, “But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32, NIV). Jesus is the key. Jesus said little about politics, finances and world events but He put enormous energy into preparing the disciples for the kingdom of God, thus empowering them. Jesus is coming soon; are we re- ally preparing a people to meet Him? Yes and no on sponsorship Malcolm ford, NZ With reference to Sanitarium and sports sponsorship (“Spon- sor thoughts,” Letters, October 25), I would also like to question some of the company’s sponsorship arrangements. I am particu- larly concerned about the New Zealand All Blacks connection. The big-bodied, rugged, win-at-all-costs image of the All Blacks, often against a background of alcohol ads, is not a wholesome role model for Kiwi kids. And on New Zealand Weet-Bix boxes, there appears to be a subtle change in format. The boxes are normally predominantly red and blue. But a noticeable change in New Zealand boxes is a darker background and certain players are featured as oversized, strident images. Do they really eat Weet-Bix before a plate of sau- sages, bacon and eggs? But on a more positive note, I did hear the endorsement of Sanitarium’s goodwill in a recent World Vision celebration in Wellington, New Zealand. Congratulations for that. Letters acknowledged Thank you to those who have written in response to the Edito- rial and Perspective article in the October 4 edition of Record. We have received many responses, which commented on the subject from a number of perspectives. However, after publish- ing the statement that appeared in the November 1 edition of Record, it has been decided not to print letters on the issue at this time.
Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent those of the editors or the denomination. Letters should be less than 250 words, and writers must include their name, address and phone number. All letters are edited to meet space and
literary requirements, but the author’s original meaning will not be changed. Not Taylor Peta all letters received are published. See masthead (page 2) for contact details.
12 November 15, 2006 noticeboard
▲▲Assistant to the Communications Director—Western Australian Conference (Gosnells, Positions vacant WA). The role demands technical direction over, and management of, all aspects of the technical endeavours of the communication department and its related operations ▲▲ Financial Controller—Signs Publishing Company (Warburton, Vic) is seeking a full-time and services. This is a newly-created position, expanding on the Western Australian financial controller, commencing January 2009. This important role requires a person Conference’s use of multimedia to communicate the gospel. The applicant must be with excellent accounting, management and people skills. Duties include financial man- a practising Seventh-day Adventist with a strong commitment to the church and its agement, balance sheet preparation, preparation and monitoring of budgets, and ongoing mission. Working as part of a team, you will be mainly involved in the technical and management reporting. The successful applicant will hold a suitable degree in a relevant production aspects of the communication department. To submit or seek further in- discipline and preferably be a member of the Australian Society of CPAs. Commitment formation, please contact: Warrick Long, PO Box 134, Gosnells, WA 6990 or email to quality and service, together with a respect for Christian values and ethics, are essential.
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Martinez—Newbold. Billy Christian Mar- occasions praying aloud for her children dren. Pearl was young-at-heart and loved tinez, son of Carlos and Daisy Martinez in the lounge while they “slept” in nearby life. She loved Jesus and greatly appreci- Weddings (Thornlie, WA), and Natasha Louise New- rooms. Ross Baines ated His forgiveness and mercy. Pearl always Blakey—Mitchell. Kevin Blakey, son of bold, daughter of Robert and Margaret looked forward to the Second Coming of Kevin and Eileen Blakey (Canning Vale, Newbold, were married on 12.10.08 at Chi- O’Donnell, Frederick Charles, born Christ. Phil Downing WA), and Joelle Ruth Mitchell, daughter dley Point Reserve, Mosman Park. 3.2.1942 at Blenheim, NZ; died 2.9.08 at of John (Manjimup) and Ruth Mitchell Gervais Cangy home in Christchurch, NZ. He was pre- Watson, Una Millicent May, born 3.2.1911 in (Thornlie) were married on 27.9.08 on the deceased by his son, Evan. He is survived Perth, WA; died 22.9.08 in Elizabeth Lodge, Matilda Bay foreshore, Crawley. Murray—Walton. Nathan Andrew Thomas by his wife, Janice (nee Lester); and his Normanhurst, NSW. She is survived by her Lynn Burton Murray, son of Kevin and Darlene Murray children, Trudy Walker and Nigel. Fred daughters, Ngaere Gill Edmonton (Canada), (Albury, NSW), and Ann Louise Walton, enjoyed his role helping with the Pathfind- and Ruth Watson (Lakes Entrance, Vic); her Egyed—Jones. Peter Jozsef Egyed, son of daughter of Douglas Walton and Juliana ers and as equipment officer for numerous two grandchildren; and three great-grand- Jozsef and Beretka Egyed (Veszprem, Hun- Kazimierczak (Albury), were married on camporees over many years. At rest, await- children. Una was a teacher at Carmel Col- gary), and Cassandra Terese Jones, daugh- 28.9.08 in Albury church, where they at- ing the Lord’s return. Ricky Howe lege, WA, and Longburn College, NZ. She ter of Errol and Heather Jones (Geelong, tend. Wolfgang Stefani married Don and they were missionaries to Vic), were married on 27.7.08 in Geelong Reid, Helen Alice (nee Hyland), born the Pitcairn and Cook Islands and Pakistan. church. John O’Malley Readford—Turnham. Cameron Grant, son 14.1.1933 at Sorell, Tas; died 21.9.08 at They worked in Japan and Canada, while of Paul and Katherine Readford (Newcastle, Launceston. On 11.6.1957, she married Af- spending a lot of time in north NSW, Syd- Ellison—Wiltshire. Gregory John Ellison, NSW), and Melissa Lee Turnham, daughter ton in Hobart. She is survived by her hus- ney, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk. son of Barry and Marlene Ellison (To- of Alan (deceased) and Lynda Turnham band; her children and their spouses, An- Robert Craig ronto, NSW), and Linda Margaret Wilt- (Guyra), were married on 28.9.08 in the Ar- drew and Heather (Devonport), Paul and shire, daughter of John and Shirley Ham- midale church. Frank Cantrill Michelle (Devon Hills), Lyle and Sallyanne nett (Forster), were married on 1.10.08 at (Perth, Tas), and Kaylene and Eric de Groot Clarence River B&B, Seelands. Zammit—Aitcheson. Paul William Zammit, (Evandale); and her 10 grandchildren. Helen Advertisements Frank Cantrill, David Currie son of Leo and Colleen Zammit (Richmond, was caring, affectionate, a good listener and Note: Neither the editor, Signs Publishing NSW), and Betty Gaye Aitcheson, daugh- loved her family. She was involved for many Company, nor the Seventh-day Adventist Galea—Clark. Mark Galea, son of Charlie ter of David and Clorene Aitcheson (Tam- years with Meals on Wheels, Dorcas welfare, Church is responsible for the quality of goods and Carmen Galea (Sarina, Qld), and Karen worth), were married on 5.10.08 in the Tam- and many church roles. She loved her Lord or services advertised. Publication does not Clark, daughter of David and Lesley Clark worth Botanical Gardens, Tamworth. dearly and was someone to emulate. Look- indicate endorsement of a product or service. (Mackay) were married on 21.9.08 in North Frank Cantrill ing eagerly for Jesus return. Advertisements approved by the editor will Mackay church. Rick Ferret Bruce Grosse, Kwan Matautia be inserted at the following rates: first 30 words or less, $A55; each additional word, Locke—Mpofu. Christopher John Locke, Tibbett, Pearl Winnifred, born 18.11.1929 at $A2.20. For your advertisement to appear, son of Amy Lim (Melbourne, Vic), and Obituaries Pomona, Qld; died 8.10.08 at Gympie. On payment must be enclosed. Classified ad- Sukholuhle (Sue) Mpofu, daughter of Campbell, Irene Ethel, born 1918; died 21.10.1990, she married Peter Tibbett. She vertisements in RECORD are available to Mbizo and Julia Mpofu (London, UK), 1.10.08 at Deception Bay, Qld. She is sur- is survived by her husband (Gympie); her Seventh-day Adventist members, churches were married on 27.7.08 in the Eliza- vived by her children, Barry, Dennis and children and their spouses, Roy and Audene and institutions only. See masthead (page 2) bethan Lodge, Blackburn North, Vic. Sandra Docking (all of Deception Bay); Knowles (Adelaide, SA), Charmaine and for contact details. Guests from Singapore, UK and all over and her grandchildren, Melony, Belinda Doug Muir (Gympie, Qld), and Donna and Australia witnessed the happy interna- and Kimberley. Irene loved her family Andrew Turner (Kambalda, WA); her eight Receive the Hope Channel and 3ABN. tional event. Trevor Rowe and her Lord. She was heard on several grandchildren; and her 24 great-grandchil- Complete satellite kit $265 + freight;
1 4 November 15, 2008 noticeboard
did you know—? your church right people sitting in there are young hungering jesus loves them, to know to now desperate a gentle push purpose, needing for identity and lives. youth congress s plan for their follow god’ all people discover helping young the is about they will open a place where -filled things. it is of the most spirit these spoken by some and hear the word of prayer, youth congress scriptures today. it is a place in adventism and inspiring presenters like-minded leaders and to connect with of worship, a place maybe, a place a place where an entire nation, youth from across decided. destiny will be avondale college maybe, their lives just in the hearts and will work mightily cooranbong, nsw the holy spirit on board. i am convinced please—take it december 30, 2008 – january 4, 2009 at this youth congress. it your of young people young person. make even sponsor a hand. encourage, december. offer a to congress this www.relentless.net.au every eligible youth business to get Proudly hosted by the Youth Department of TONY KNIGHT the Australian Union Conference (AUC) CONGRESS DIRECTOR *Full Payment and all applications due by November 30, 2008. YOUTH A late fee of $50 applies to all applications received after this date. prime signal areas in Australia only. Full you to give a short talk on your experience instructions for DIY installation. Install- in this area. Contact Ken Boehm on (02) ers available. Rural Electronics (02) 6361 4365 3033, mobile 0408 072 313, or War- 3636; or
Missionaries’ Lunch—Avondale Gradu- ation, Sabbath December 6. We will be having our annual lunch immediately Finally after the church service in the Educa- tion building, for missionaries and ex- Do not ask the Lord to missionaries, families and friends. Please bring a plate of food, sufficient for your guide your footsteps family and a friend. Drinks and nibbles will be provided. The theme for this year if you are not willing is the role of health work in spreading the gospel in the South Pacific. We encourage to move your feet.
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