Easter Drama Comes to Life

' April 26, 1997 EC

Cyclone Hits Tongan Churches-11 I

Easter Drama Comes to Life 'rile Geelong (Vic) church re-enacted the Last Supper as part of three programs held in the church I I over the Easter long weekend (March 28-31). Some 250 people attended the Friday night Baptisms and production of the musical "Is It I?" On Sabbath morning, Pastor Glenn Townend preached on "Which Came First, Jesus or the Eggs?"; Bloodshed in and on Sunday morning, "Jesus Is Alive—So What?" Mexico —9 "This was an evangelistic experiment in an attempt to attract people to church at a time when they are more likely to attend church," says Pastor Townend. "We think it worked and we will try again next year." There were 108 who attended the programs from the community (with 90 on the Friday evening). Adventist Pictured are some of those who participated in "Is It I?" From the left are: Stuart Forbes as James, D Appointed PM Wally Palcak as Judas, Warren Skene as Jesus, Alf Hawkins as Thaddaeus and Claude Trickey as Thomas. of PNG 11

EDITORIAL Doctrine—Don't Knock It

Officially the Catholic Church does not body is putting down doctrine either Did our accept the authenticity of all these phe- openly or by innuendo. We seem to be pioneers, nomena hook, line and sinker. Kenneth R suggesting that doctrine is somehow who literally Samples, writing in the Christian inimical to spiritual warmth, openness burned the mid- Research Journal, observes that the offi- and vitality. night oil nailing cial Catholic reaction is one of caution I understand, I think, part of the reason down the pillars and deliberation. for this reaction. We can easily get of our faith, toil "Obviously," he says, "the church has bogged down in the minutiae of doctrine. in vain? Living much to lose in the area of credibility if it We can become so preoccupied with get- in a period of theological luxury, when recognises an apparition which later turns ting it right, with arguing our way to the everything comes to us ready-made, do out to be unauthentic or even fraudulent." kingdom, that we become both insipid we tend to denigrate what they accom- Samples continues: "It is safe to say and obnoxious. You meet people who plished? that while the church is open to the possi- seem to care nothing about your personal I came across an article in which for- bility of these supernatural manifesta- welfare as a human being, but who insist mer Lutheran journalist Wayne Weible' tions, it is at the same time highly scepti- on socking a load of doctrine down your tells how he came to believe the current cal. In the words of one Catholic scholar: throat. spate of apparitions of Mary. He was `The church accepts the authenticity of a But to go to the opposite extreme teaching a Sunday school class on mod- would be a terrible mistake. We cannot chart our way through the philosophical ern miracles at his Lutheran church one Every year I attend at least and theological quicksand of our confus- Sunday when a woman in his class men- one major Adventist gather- tioned the miracles taking place in ing times without a tried, tested and inter- ing where somebody is Medjugorje, Yugoslavia. After the class locking system of biblical doctrine. putting down doctrine. he obtained written materials, as well as a Had the Catholic Church not wan- videotape, on the phenomenon. dered away from biblical teaching, it Here is his account of what happened supernatural intervention only with great would not have had to wait for further next: circumspection. She requires that the evidence before making a definitive "About midway through watching the facts, which she submits to a severe evaluation of the miraculous phenomena film, I suddenly 'felt' a strong message examination, should in themselves be at Medjugorje. Knowing that Mary, like within myself. I heard no audible voice, striking, and also insists on waiting before all the dead, now waits in the grave, the but the message was there just as clear as passing judgment."" church might have known that the though I had actually heard it. In essence Why does the Catholic Church wait visions were false. it said, 'You are my son, and you are to before passing judgment? Because of the Without a solid doctrinal foundation do my Son's work. Write about the events church's own doctrine. Because the under us, all else would crumble. So let's in Medjugorje. Afterward you will no church has distorted the pure teaching of not knock doctrine. We'd be adrift with- longer be in this work [journalism], for the Bible in respect to Mary in particular, out it. Roy Adams your life will be devoted to the spreading and in respect to the nature of human Associate Editor of the message."' beings in general. The neglect of biblical Adventist Review I Weible was stunned by the communi- doctrine, or the distortion of the same, 1.Wayne Weible, "Miracle at Medjugorje" (Decem- cation. "I sat up the entire night thinking leaves us open to all kinds of speculation, ber 4, 1985), from Medjugorje: The Message, about what had happened. There was no enthusiastic emotionalism and theological Paraclete, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, 1989. doubt in my heart about the source of the nonsense. 2. Lewis Lochet, Apparitions of Our Lady, Herder message or that it had actually happened. Yet every year I attend at least one and Herder, New York, 1960, page 30; cited in It was from Mary the blessed virgin." major Adventist gathering where some- Christian Research Journal, Winter 1991, page 22.

Manuscripts Should be sent to The Editor, Official Paper Record, Signs Publishing Company, I Seventh-day Adventist Church Warburton, Victoria 3799. Manuscripts or Next Week: South Pacific Division computer disks will only be returned if accom- panied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Editor Bruce Manners Phone: (03) 5966 9111. Fax: (03) 5966 9019. Assistant Editor Lee Dunstan E-mail: CompuServe 74617,726; Internet Editorial Assistant Brenton Stacey 74617.726 @compuserve.com. TTUC Report. Copy Editor Graeme Brown Subscriptions South Pacific Division, Editorial Secretary Lexie Deed $A39.00 $NZ44.85. All other regions, Senior Consulting Editor Laurie Evans $A77.00 $NZ88.55. Air mail rates on application. Order from Signs Publishing Company. Warburton, Victoria 3799, Australia. Printed Cover Photo: T McWilliam weekly by Signs Publishing Company. A.C.N. 0(10 003 930 Vol 102 No 16

2 RECORD April 26, 1997 PAGE 3 Adventures at Railway Stations by C E Sommerfeld

woman in the seat opposite was reading was gracious and loved him. When ared was a brilliant student and an a book with the name "Luther" promi- offered a small Christian book the ill enthusiastic winner on the sports nent on the cover. Without delay I young man gladly accepted it. I also field. Life was exciting! crossed the aisle and sat in the spare gave him a couple of dollars to have a But suddenly, anguish struck with seat next to her. milkshake. violent pain and continued battles with "I noticed you're reading a book Another time I was walking down cancer. He put up courageous resis- about Luther," I said. the path to the railway station when, tance for months, but finally the end She told me that she had tried several ahead of me, was a young man with the was near. churches and was not satisfied. She was words visible on the back of his T-shirt, He looked at his mother and softly searching. "Here today. In Hell . . ." I couldn't see murmured, "Would you walk a few "If I gave you a small Christian book anymore. blocks and look at the sky. Walk in the would you read it?" I asked. When he stopped to wait for the train world for me?" "Yes," she said and gladly received I went up to him and asked, "What Jesus asks the same. He wants moth- it. does the rest of your T-shirt say?" ers and fathers and all others to walk in The train began to slow down for the "Tomorrow," he said. the world for Him, telling the good coming station. What an opportunity I had to share news of His total victory over sin, and "I'm sorry, but I get off here," she about the great God of the universe of the offer of eternal life to all said. "Thank you for the book." who was vitally interested in getting (Matthew 28:18-20; John 3:16). He's Now was this experience a mere people into heaven and keeping them entrusted us to go and make disciples combination of circumstances, or was out of hell. for Him. God involved? Would he read a small book about I enjoy distributing Christian litera- I was sitting on a seat at a busy rail- God's love? Yes, he would, and happi- ture. One day I had placed all my books way station waiting for the train to ly boarded the train with Happiness except one, and I went to the railway Sydney when a young man came and Digest. station to catch a train home. As I sat down next to me. On his T-shirt, in One meets a wide variety of people neared the station a train was about to big letters, was written, "I am bad." when "walking in the world for God." leave. We started talking. Soon I could look Opportunities build up as we walk for Rushing down the steps I managed to him in the eye and ask him the ques- Jesus to make disciples for Him. get in the last carriage. But I wasn't tion. Eternity alone will reveal the glorious satisfied, so I went forward through the "How bad are you?" fruitage. connecting link to the next carriage and This startled him. But it wasn't long sat down. before he told me his troubles. I C E Sommerfeld is a retired pastor who can often encouraged him, telling him that God be found training his way from his home in Glancing about I noticed that the Cooranbong, NSW, to Sydney.

RECORD April 26, 1997 3 4 guess Imustbea going. Iguessmustbea cerned aboutpeople.Iguess mustbea cussion. Iguessmustbea together forlunch.Iguessmustbea —Gosford (NSW) churchmemberNarelleCunningham in no, I The ListKeepsGrowing Some SabbathsIenjoylivelymusicandgentlebeat.guess Imustbea Some SabbathsIwishpeople wouldbelessconcernedaboutbeingrightandmorecon- Some SabbathsIlikequietreverenceinchurchandthings done intherightorder.I Some SabbathsIamsofullofjoywanttomakeworship extra-special andhaveaget- Every SabbathIenjoyworshipping GodbecauseHelovesme—andlikesme.Iguess— Some SabbathsIdisagreewithradicalsuggestionsmadein theBible-studyguidedis- Some SabbathsIfeelseriousandconcernedabouttheway theworldandchurchare know—I F ber ofwomenstudyingtheologyatAvondaleCollege(NSW). Steve Thompson."Womenarebeginningtospeakup,acknowledging that Godhascalledthemtominister.Theyarealsorecognisingthey have thefreedomtoactonthatcall." who prepareforministry? am a business ofequippingpeoplefor "It changesthedynamicsofclassroom,"saystheologychairDr first-year studentsCherylTodd,KarenHumphrey,FayeStothers and KristieJackson(pictured,lefttoright)bringeightthenum- Does thismeanthatAvondaleisseekingordinationforwomen "Ordination isnotanissueforministryinistryis,andwe'reinthe legalist. Christian. concerned brother. traditionalist. What AmI? celebrationist. liberal. " saysDrThompson. Adventist Review radical. still deepdivisions,"said Adventist Review is torecognisethatthereare es. "I'marealistandthe Archbishop Carey.— realistic partofmyresponse authority ofthepontiff. ordination, homosexual point toanyrealprogressin Archbishop Careycould the longefforttorestore marriages andthesupreme unity tothedividedchurch- divided theirchurches.The issues includewomen's a recentmeetingoverfunda- mental issuesthathave remained atanimpasseafter (pictured, left)andPope John PaulII(right) Archbishop GeorgeCarey coming hiscongregationto Churches Divided of Watford,England,wel- worship, in —Pastor WatsonSouthcott, in therightplace Review today." News Extra and sinful—youare or sick,sorrowful healthy andholy— Quotable Neither theVaticannor Anglican Churchleader "If youarehappy, Adventist RECORD April 26,1997

Photo: Adventis t Review I Family Conference tion is Pastor Ted Wick, for- Student and Teachers Reunited The next National merly a university chaplain Christian Family Conference and youth leader, and Ieurline (July 28 and 29) will focus on presently the Adventist Taylor, the Process of Becoming, Development and Relief a Year 7 reports South Pacific Agency—International student at Division Family Ministries Volunteer Services director. Sydney Department director Pastor "Pastor Wick will draw on Adventist Bryan Craig. The conference his own experience of College will study the connection divorce and remarriage as he (NSW), between emotional develop- speaks about the challenges found the ment, spiritual growth and of leaving the past behind and first few family wellbeing. Speakers moving on," says spokesper- weeks of include: Dr Robert Kegan, a son Pastor Roger Vince. the school developmental psychologist year easier from the Harvard Graduate than others in her class. Why? School of Education, USA; SPD Retirements Both the previous principals from her old primary and Ruth Schmidt Neven, a Following is a list of school at Hurstville are now employed at the college. child psychotherapist and denominational employees Pictured with Lurline is Elva Taylor (her grandmother), director of the Centre for who retired recently: Pastor and the former principals, Faye Kuch, now the learning Child and Family John Arito, Papua New support teacher, and Ewan Brown, the college counsellor. Development in Melbourne. Guinea Union Mission Both will make presentations (PNGUM) (28 years); Pastor and be involved in work- Baea Buiva, PNGUM (36); (21); Pastor David Hay, Seventh-day Adventist shops. Val Chandler, Sydney SPD (42); Pastor Matthew church, were heading for Adventist Hospital (SAH) Miro, PNGUM (34); Pastor their annual camp-meeting. (30); John Chermside, Johnathan Paiva, PNGUM Twenty other passengers Singles Convention South Pacific Division (SPD) (21); Pastor John Pakao, were injured in the accident, The 1998 National Singles (43); Pastor Gagu Dobui, PNGUM (33); Peter eight of whom remain in a Convention will be held at PNGUM (22); Barry Sweeny, SAH (22). critical condition.—ANN Monash University in Freeman, Sanitarium Health Melbourne from January 6 to Food Company (42); 10. Speaking at the conven- Maurice Hakout, PNGUM SPD Transfers Pacific Islands Peter Watts, from restau- rant supervisor, Warburton New Church Malaita Mission Plans Ahead Health Care Centre, to trades- Thanks to worldwide 13th person and bindery machine Sabbath offerings, the first pastors operator, Signs Publishing church for New Caledonia's r— a n d Company. 60 Vanuatuan Adventists church was opened and dedicated in members Noumea on February 23. from the World Church Guests at the program Malaita included Central Pacific Mission Pathfinders Killed Union Mission president (pictured) Twelve Pathfinders were Pastor Stenio Gungadoo and met recent- killed when their chartered New Caledonia Mission ly to set bus collided with a truck, president Pastor Eddy goals and develop action plans for 1997. which had crossed the road's Johnson. The new 110-seat According to mission president Pastor Baxton Ri'imana, centre divider, in Caracas, building is designed to be by the end of the year the mission wants to: • organise Venezuela, on March 23. The easily extended—the church five new churches • run 80 evangelistic campaigns • bap- Pathfinders, all Master members are already plan- tise 1000 people • build 18 bush churches • run two min- Guides from the El Paraiso ning to test this. isters meetings • establish five satellite clinics • run stew- ardship programs in all districts • and establish youth CHURCH CALENDAR clubs in all churches. May 10 ADRA Disaster and Famine Relief "When you fail to plan, you're planning to fail," says Offering Pastor Ri'imana. May 17-24 Adventist Health Week May 24 Adventist Health Offering

RECORD April 26, 1997 5 END-TIMES Marian Apparitions and the Adventist Church by Alfred S Jorgensen

Mary has made it clear that she is the "chosen prophetess for our times."

earth. "This will not be the end of the What will intrigue Seventh-day cripture states that natural disas- world as many may think, but the dawn Adventists is that the Marian movement Sters such as famines, earthquakes, of a new epoch, an age in which God is is seen as the contemporary manifesta- and signs in the sun, moon, and stars will adored" (see pages 5 and 6). tion of the "spirit of prophecy." provide warnings preceding the Second While the authors appeal extensively According to The Thunder of Justice, Coming of Jesus. Although 'no man to Scripture—expositions are given of Mary has revealed herself as "the Queen knows the day or the hour' (Matthew Revelation 12, Matthew 24 and 25, 2 of all prophets, the Prophetess of our 24:36), Jesus has given us signs we Thessalonians 3:3-12 and Joel 3:1-5 times" (page 11). should be watching for when this time (2:28-32)—The Thunder of Justice is Mary has long been recognised by the approaches" (page 8).* based primarily on the alleged messages Roman Catholic Church as Co- No, this is not The Great Controversy, of the Blessed Virgin Mary to various Redemptrix, Mediatrix, Advocate, and but The Thunder of Justice—an intrigu- visionaries. Regina Coeli (Queen of Heaven). But in ing book written by two Roman Catholic The current Marian times, we are told, her recent revelations she has described lay scholars, Ted and Maureen Flynn. began in 1830, and since Mary's appear- herself as "Mother and Queen of all the The book is primarily an account of con- ance at Fatima, Portugal, on July 13, Church," "the Ark of the New temporary Marian apparitions (appear- 1917, there have been more than 300 Covenant," "the New Eve," ances of Mary). Marian apparitions. That Mary's mes- "Queen of the Angels," While it does not bear an "impri- sages have apparently not been readily "Lady of all Nations" matur" (an official endorsement by the acted upon by all Roman and "Mother of the Roman Catholic Church), the writers Catholic Church lead- Second Advent." affirm "unconditional submission to the ers is admitted, though Supremely she sees final and official judgment of the there is considerable her role as the woman Magisterium of the Church" and explain support worldwide. clothed with the sun that in this present instance an impri- In the United foretold in Revelation matur is not necessary as the Vatican II States there is a 12. Council Fathers "urged the faithful to be 55,000- mem- open and attentive to the ways in which ber Marian the Holy Spirit continues to guide the movement of Church, including private revelations" priests and 200 (Declarations preceding "Table of Marian centres. Contents"). And it is evident The book's message is simple: the that Pope John appearances of the Blessed Virgin Mary Paul II approves of are a warning preparing the world for the the movement. In Second Coming of Jesus Christ. During his 1987 encyclical, the end-times, God's majesty will be dis- Redemptoris Mater, played in the most widely witnessed mir- he wrote that acle of all time. Signs will be left in the "Marian apparitions sky. Satan's power will be broken by a signify the Blessed Virgin series of catastrophes that will bring Mary's journey through time America and the world to its knees. and space in pilgrimage This "chastisement" will be followed toward the Second Coming of by an "era of peace," a glorious time for Jesus and her final victory over the world, in a new heaven and a new Satan" (page 18).

6 RECORD April 26, 1997 END-TIMES

"At the end, I am seen as the Woman Mary is directly related to and derived very first statement our Lord made in Clothed with the Sun, who has the task from Catholic faith in Christ" (page His Olivet prophecy was: "Watch out of fighting against the Red Dragon and 77)—that is, from tradition. Indeed, the that no one deceives you" (Matthew his powerful army, to conquer him, to authors acknowledge that the "Marian 24:4, NW). bind him and drive him into his kingdom dogmas" were "defined in the early The deception of which He warned is of death, that Christ alone may reign Councils of the Church" (page 78). then detailed, "For false Christs and over the world. Behold me, then, pre- If Mary is not in heaven and if we false prophets will appear and perform sented by Sacred Scripture in the splen- adhere to the Scriptural teaching that great signs and miracles to deceive even dour of my maternal royalty: 'And "the dead know not anything" the elect—if that were possible" another sign appeared in the heavens: a (Ecclesiastes 9:5), who is the "Mary" (Matthew 24:24, NW). Furthermore, we Woman clothed with the sun, with the that appears in the apparitions? have been told that the "very last decep- moon beneath her feet, and on her head a "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, tion of Satan will be to make of none crown of twelve stars— (page 99). but test the spirits to see whether they effect the testimony of the Spirit of God" It isn't surprising that, in one of her are from God; for many false prophets (Selected Messages, Book 1, page 48). apparitions, Mary appeared as an have gone out into the world" (1 John The logic of the situation is unassail- unspeakably beautiful young lady, 4:1, NRSV). able. Satan never wastes his time in dressed in white, wearing a golden But it may be queried, Isn't there counterfeiting that which is unimportant crown and surrounded by light (page much that is good in the Marian move- or irrelevant. This challenge urges us to 31). ment? Are we going to write off its stric- avail ourselves of the counsel and guid- Mary has also made it clear that she is tures against theological liberalism, ance that God has given us in Scripture the "chosen prophetess for our age," abortion, the New Age movement, mate- and the "testimony of Jesus Christ." For appointed by the Holy Trinity to appear rialism and such like? Isn't it on target "none but those who have fortified the throughout the world, to warn the world when it predicts a second Pentecost? mind with the truths of the Bible will and prepare the way for the Second Yes, there is some truth in The stand through the last great conflict" Coming of her Son, and to "offer His Thunder of Justice, but we must never (The Great Controversy, page 593). 0 people a safe haven in her Immaculate forget that "some truth" may actually Heart" (pages 4 and 5). contribute to the subversion of "all the *All page numbers are from Ted and Maureen truth." Take the account of the initial Flynn, The Thunder of Justice—the Warning, the Thus "as John the Baptist prepared the Miracle, the Chastisement, the Era of Peace, way for the first coming of Jesus, Mary deception—Satan told Eve far more Maxkol Communications, Sterling, Virginia, 1993. prepares the way for His Second truth than error. But the error—a flat Coming" (page 12). Accordingly, the denial of what God had said—resulted in Alfred S Jorgensen, a former field secretary of the South Pacific Division, now retired, writes from thesis of The Thunder of Justice is that the entry of sin into the world. Bayswater, Vic. the Marian apparitions are none other We can understand therefore why the than the contemporary manifestation of the "spirit of prophecy." Health for Our Children Marian Movement and Adventists he news this morning carried details of a whooping cough outbreak—the The very first problem we face is the Treturn of a disease from past years. It's sad to hear of the youngest of babies identity of "Mary." Where in Scripture dying from this disease. It reminds us that we live in a world of death and disease. do we have any teaching that "Mary has Our modern life has often shielded us from that which was common to our par- a unique relationship to the Holy Trinity: ents and their parents. But the issues of immunisation are for another day. I turned she is the daughter of the Father, Mother to a recent newspaper, The Nation's Health, from the American Public Health of the Son, and Spouse of the Holy Association. In it, Richard Brown outlined the following principles of "A Public Spirit" (page 74) and that, as the "New Health Agenda for Children." These points are appropriate to the health beliefs of Eve," "Jesus, the New Adam, chose to the Adventist Church also. associate [her] . . . as a bridal partner in • Every child should come into the world as healthy as possible His work of redemption" (page 77)? • Every child should have adequate access to health care It is true that Mary was honoured by • Every child should be helped to avoid substance abuse God in being chosen to be the human • Every child should be free from threats of injury and violence mother of our Lord Jesus Christ (Luke • Every child should be assured a healthful environment 1:30, 42-48). But the Bible tells us noth- • Every child should be assured a healthful standard of living ing about her earthly life after she met • Every child should be assured the opportunity for a healthy future. with the apostolic community prior to During this 1997 Year of Health and Healing let us act to ensure the application the day of Pentecost (Acts 1:13, 14). of these principles in our own lives and, above all, the lives of our precious her- Any claim therefore, that later she was itage, our children.—Harley Stanton taken up to heaven is a doctrine not derived from Scripture but, as the Flynns correctly state, "Catholic veneration of YEAR of HEALTH and HEALING

RECORD April 26, 1997 7 TION Creation on Trial Again by Austin Fletcher

"On the one side was big- were riding a high, particularly with the otry, ignorance, hatred, impact of the Piltdown Man discovery, superstition, every sort of which was yet to be proved a fraud. The blackness that the human evolutionary theory was in high favour in scientific circles. That's why the mind is capable of. On the American Civil Liberties Union under- other side was sense." took to finance the challenge of the new Tennessee Law. This, and the fact that the protagonists he current trial in Sydney over the were famous (Bryan had run for US Tuse of claims for Noah's ark at a site president three times and served as sec- in Turkey is creating much interest. Of retary of state under President Woodrow even more interest is the attempt by the Wilson), made it a media event. About Sceptics Society and Melbourne 100 reporters attended the trial and University's Dr Ian Plimer to use the case "wired 165,000 words daily to their to put creationism on trial. newspapers during the 12 days of exten- Not that this is new. The most famous sive coverage in July 1925.'" trial was what became known as the "In theory, trial coverage could have "Scopes Monkey Trial" of 1925. illuminated the theological debate that lack of scientific proof and emphasised When the Tennessee State Legislature lay behind the creation vs evolution its inability to answer questions about (USA) passed a law forbidding the issue. But in practice, with few if any how life began, how humans began, how teaching of evolution as scientific truth, a Christians among those reporters, the one species actually changes into anoth- young substitute teacher, John T Scopes, position established early on by H L er and so on. In recent years, evolution- responded to an invitation to stand trial Mencken went apparently unchallenged: ists themselves have raised the same as having violated the law. He was will- `On the one side was bigotry, ignorance, issues (see Evolution: A Theory in Crisis ing, although he wasn't sure he had ever hatred, superstition, every sort of black- by Michael Denton [1986] and Darwin taught evolution. He was prosecuted by a ness that the human mind is capable of. on Trial by Phillip E Johnson [1993]). famous American Christian—William On the other side was sense.' Journalists Alice Kehoe may have felt the Scopes Jennings Bryan—and defended by from major city newspapers saw the trial had defeated biblical creation, but renowned agnostic Clarence Darrow. story as one of evolutionist intelligence she had to admit, "Creationism is far Scopes was found guilty and fined vs creationist stupidity.... from dead: it is one of the most rapidly $US100. The Tennessee Supreme Court "Both sides apparently did well. But growing movements in America today." nullified the fine when the case was journalists wrote that Bryan's speech The Scopes trial may have made good appealed. `was a grotesque performance and news copy, but what a tragedy it was so How the media reported the case influ- downright touching in its imbecility." biased. So many saw a victory where enced intellectuals for decades. For One New York reporter called Scopes there wasn't one. The truth would have instance, while addressing the sober, sci- a new Galileo, recalling the trial of been far more helpful. We'll wait with entific minds of the American Galileo by the church in Italy in 1616. interest to see what comes out of the Anthropological Society in 1978, archae- The play and the movie Inherit the Sydney trial. ❑ ologist Alice B Kehoe admitted, "Like Wind increased the media hype. Their most Americans, I assumed that the issue "legend tells of religious fanatics who References I. Francis Hitching, The Neck of the Giraffe: of evolution versus the biblical creation invade a school classroom to persecute Where Darwin Went Wrong, Ticknor and Fields, account had been demolished by an inoffensive science teacher, and of a New Haven, 1982, page 113. Darrow's attack upon Bryan's fundamen- heroic defence lawyer who symbolises 2. Marvin Olasky, Prodigal Press: The Anti- talism at the Scopes trial in Tennessee, reason itself in its endless battle against Christian Bias of the American News Media, quoted in Liberty, January-February, page I I. 1925."' superstition."' 3. Liberty, January-February, page I I. She was correct. She and millions of This in spite of the fact that when 4. Phillip E Johnson, Darwin on Trial, Intervarsity others have assumed, and still assume Bryan debated Darrow's associate on Press, Illinois, 1993, page 4. that the biblical Creation account had July 16, court transcripts show strong 5. Hitching, /oc cit. been demolished by Darrow. Not so. and intelligent orations on both sides. Austin Fletcher, a retired pastor-evangelist, writes During the mid '20s, evolutionists Bryan stressed the evolutionary theory's from Dorrigo, NSW.

8 RECORD April 26, 1997 NEWSFRONT Baptisms and Bloodshed A personal account of evangelism and religious persecution in southern Mexico.

dventist Review editor William tered their name and address on arrival, merge and sweep into the stadium to a Aohnsson, an Australian, recently then gathered with others in a designated band salute and the applause of the travelled to southern Mexico with place according to home district. The 22,000 people. General Conference president Pastor pastors involved in the baptising are Pathfinders line the route as the mov- Robert Folkenberg to watch 10,000 be assigned numbers and, when the long ing mass walks the length of the stadi- baptised. This is his description of the lines form for the event, the candidates um, pausing only for Pastor Folkenberg weekend trip: are again checked on a list against the to drink from a coconut water fountain pastor who will baptise them. prepared for honoured guests. We make When you travel with the General This is my first mass baptism. I'm our way to a huge platform, complete Conference president, expect long days impressed by the orderly, reverent with a backdrop of welcome messages and short nights, meals on the run, or no approach. No sleight of hand with candi- and several baptismal tanks. meals at all. And if the visit takes you to dates, no possibility of shenanigans, After appropriate music and welcom- countries where the Adventist Church is such as people coming flourishing, expect huge crowds, VIP back again and again to treatment in customs, welcoming bands, inflate the numbers— Pathfinder honour guards, music, police we're dealing with corn- escorts, flowers, appointments with civic puterised lists and double officials, press conferences and speech- checks to safeguard the es, speeches, speeches. event's integrity. Our first stop is Merida, on the Gulf As warm as our wel- of Mexico. The reception is huge. come is in Merida, it does Adventists in Mexico regard Pastor not prepare us for what Folkenberg as a native son—not an awaits further west at American, but an Inter-American. (He Villahermosa. Merida was was born in Puerto Rico, is fluent in enthusiastic; Villahermosa Spanish and spent most of his ministry is tumultuous. here.) Adventists aren't just in After arriving at the airport we drive the news in Mexico-

straight to the hotel, freshen up and rush they're making news. (no dinner) to the public gymnasium The huge baptism iew Rev where 2000 people have assembled for planned in Villahermosa t is Sabbath vespers. and Pastor Folkenberg's t Adven

That evening Pastor Folkenberg chal- visit attract widespread lenges them to live holy and righteous press coverage. A national to: lives. I look out over the audience. So TV station announces it Pho many young faces. Such rapt concentra- will carry Pastor Some of the 5000 people baptised in Villahermosa. tion. Such joy in worship. Folkenberg's sermon live that afternoon. ing speeches, the governor rises to At the end of the meeting Pastor The state government lets us use the speak. Instead of a few cursory remarks Folkenberg makes an evangelistic call. local sports stadium and looks after followed by a hasty exit, he makes a At least 100 people join him after the security arrangements. The governor major statement on behalf of religious meeting. even accepts an invitation to appear with freedom. Congratulating the Adventist Morning comes quickly—we're off to his wife to address the gathering. Church for its social programs, he tells the ocean to witness the baptism. Not the For Adventists in Mexico these inter- the gathering to count on the support of entire baptism—even with the 30 pastors ventions are extraordinary and unprece- his government. baptising at once, it would take most of dented. A few years ago they would have The governor and his entourage then the day—just its beginning. been impossible. move from the platform to a covered Thousands of people are gathered on We arrive at the stadium a few min- area at the side to listen to the musical the sand. They came in buses and cars utes before the governor's entourage. concert and Pastor Folkenberg's sermon. (many of them Volkswagen Beetles). Then he comes and the crowds grow At precisely 2.00 pm, as Pastor There are Pathfinder lines keeping peo- denser, as civic and security officials Folkenberg rises to speak, the meeting ple in place, first aid people, bands and mingle with the Adventists surrounding switches to live television coverage. The quartets. Pastor Folkenberg. president seizes the moment. He reiter- Each baptismal candidate has regis- It's a rush, a melee, as the both parties ates the governor's commitment to reli-

RECORD April 26, 1997 9 NEWSFRONT gious liberty and lays to rest criticisms and only then because the government that Adventists are legalists because they sent in heavy security forces—although, keep the Sabbath. in the effort, one police officer was The sun breaks through—it grows killed. fiercely hot as light and heat reflect from As the time together ends, Pastor the white platform and backdrop. Folkenberg thanks and affirms the iew v

Most of the platform party are in dark believers in Chiapas. He assures them of Re t is suits, white shirts and dark ties. the support of the church and promises t Mercifully, Pastor Folkenberg soon that aid will come for their physical Adven quotes one of his favourite texts: "They needs. He invites us all to pray. must not wear anything that makes them to:

It's been a long weekend, especially Pho perspire" (Ezekiel 44:18, NIV), then Tabasco state governor Roberto Madrazo for Pastor Folkenberg. He's spoken to removes his jacket and invites the rest of Pintado addressing 22,000 Adventists in a huge audiences, met leaders in public us to do so. I find a discarded sombrero Villahermosa sports stadium. life, and greeted hundreds of individuals. and put it on for protection. across his scalp from a machete blow. Images crowd around me. But one Several thousand new members, bap- Julian Perez Lopez tells us that only stands out: Pastor Folkenberg tapping at tised earlier that day, are seated in chairs eight days before, his aunt was shot and his laptop computer, recording firsthand on the grass right in front of the plat- killed and her seven children taken away. the accounts of the suffering in southern form. Her relatives had to wait four days Mexico, pausing only to brush a tear The growth of the church in the South before recovering her body for burial, from his cheek.—Adventist Review Mexico Union is mind-boggling. At the end of 1996 there were 335,000 members; in January this year 18,000 more were baptised. The Crisis Over Scripture Our trip to southern Mexico has a sec- by Gerhard Pfandl ond objective: Pastor Folkenberg wants to express the solidarity of the world- harles H. Spurgeon, more than a century ago, wrote: "Everywhere there is wide Adventist Church with believers in Capathy. Nobody cares whether that which is preached is true or false. A ser- Chiapas who are suffering because of mon is a sermon whatever the subject; only, the shorter it is the better" (The Sword their convictions. and the Trowel, 1888). This could never be said of Seventh-day Adventists, a peo- Several years ago a guerrilla move- ple once known as "the people of the Book"—or could it? ment arose in the mountainous region. Over the past three decades, theological pluralism has entered the Seventh-day The guerrillas forced local villagers to Adventist Church and is here to stay—at least until the shaking time. Incredibly, support their conflict with the govern- many believe this is a positive trend and hail it as a major advance for the church. ment. Members of other religious faiths The result is that today the people of the Book face a major crisis involving the go along with the guerrillas, but the authority and interpretation of the Bible. Adventists refuse to take sides and so An increasing number of church leaders, Bible teachers, pastors and lay mem- come under attack. bers within our church raise questions about the trustworthiness and reliability of The first plan is for us to fly into Scripture. Chiapas by helicopter, but security con- The insert "The Authority and Interpretation of Scripture" in today's Record cerns force a rethink. Now, two groups seeks to address this issue by exploring the Bible's claim to its authority and by of believers, with a pastor from each providing practical guidelines for its interpretation. group, will make their way to meet us. The first part of the insert deals with the question of the inspiration of Scripture In a small hotel conference room we and its authority not only in religious matters, but also in the areas of science and listen to these members for nearly two history. Furthermore, it calls upon Adventists to resist current trends in society hours. and in the theological world that are not in harmony with the Bible. A harrowing picture emerges. Many The second part deals with the interpretation of Scripture. It provides general of them have lost homes and posses- and specific principles of interpretation and applies them in a case study to Isaiah sions, their crops have been taken and chapter 6. they can't go out to collect firewood. At a time when the Adventist Church is being challenged by the inroads of the Most have suffered verbal and physical historical-critical method of biblical interpretation, it is important that we use cor- abuse, some have been kidnapped, others rect principles in the interpretation of God's Word to understand what it says. We have simply disappeared. Bludgeonings, invite each reader to take the time to study the issue of the inspiration and inter- machete attacks and shootings are com- pretation of Scripture, because, "None but those who have fortified the mind with mon. the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict" (The Great Here is Maria Elena, with bullet frag- Controversy, page 593). El ments still in her back. Here is Hebreo Perez Martinez, 19, with a long scar Gerhard Pfandl is the field secretary for the South Pacific Division.

10 RECORD April 26, 1997 Adventist Appointed PM of PNG

ollowing the recent political turmoil, caretaker prime minister. as a compromise candidate. FPapua New Guinea (PNG) has a new He was chosen by PNG's coalition A member of one of the local leader, John Giheno, a respected politi- government to lead in restoring stability Adventist congregations in Port cian who is also a Seventh-day after the country's worst-ever political Morsbey, Mr Giheno comes from Adventist. crisis. Henganofi in the remote Eastern Mr Giheno was sworn in after a day of The press reports referred to Mr Highlands and has been a minister for political negotiating as a temporary Giheno as a surprise choice to replace almost all of his 15-year political career. replacement for Prime Minister, Sir Sir Julius, but described him as a "non- His most recent portfolio was as Julius Chan. drinking, devout Christian, a Seventh- Mining and Petroleum Minister and The new prime minister, "a soft-spo- day Adventist with a reputation for deputy leader of the Pangu Party, a ken, one-time science teacher," plans no decency." junior partner in the People's Progress major initiatives in his brief role as Political analysts have referred to him Party—led coalition government.—ANN Evangelistic Cyclone Destroys Churches Series Succeeds in Hamilton

lTost 200 people signed up for Ar igging Up the Past lessons at the end of a recent six-part lecture series in Hamilton, New Zealand. The March 14-19 series, hosted by Pastor David Down and attended by an average of 320 people each night, "was a public relations success," says Hamilton church minister Bryan Vickery. He also adds that the high audience retention rate showed the value of selling tickets Kalonga church, destroyed by cyclone Hina. through a booking agency. Advertising for the series included: Oix Adventist churches, and staff houses at Beulah College, were badly dam- two nine-metre-long banners suspended aged after Cyclone Hina struck Tonga on March 16. across the main street of Hamilton; 150 "Fortunately, the centre of the cyclone passed offshore and the strong winds posters on rubbish bins in the central lasted for just 20 minutes," says Tonga and Niue Mission treasurer Mosese business district; and 30,000 leaflets and Kolao. "Any longer and the damage would have been far worse." radio and newspaper spots. Two of the churches (Mau and Kalonga) were completely destroyed by the cyclone; neither were insured against cyclone damage. The Kalonga church had steel ties in the roof, but the force of the cyclone snapped the ties, blew off the roof and destroyed the walls. The 50-member church will now meet in the pastor's lounge room until a new church can be built. "Despite the losses, members in Tonga are remaining positive," reports Central Pacific Union Mission treasurer Rodney Brady. ADRA Responds to Cyclone The Adventist Development and Relief Agency supplied $A25,000 worth of food and clothing to those affected by Cyclone Gavin after it struck Fiji on March 7. The cyclone left at least 15 people dead and 10,000 without adequate food or shelter. In many areas crops were destroyed by flooding, and the water was Bryan Vickery (left) stands with Pastor David not safe to drink. Down at the end of the Hamilton, New Zealand, Digging Up the Past series.

RECORD April 26, 1997 11 Avondale First-years Win First Melanesian Big Scholarships Ordained in New wenty first-year students at Avondale churches, schools or other church organ- Caledonia TCollege (NSW) have won scholar- isations. ships totalling $A83,000 to help pay Six others won $A4500 Principal's their residential fees this year. Scholarships. The winners were chosen Six students won $A4000 Leadership by their high-school principals based on Scholarships, offered by the Avondale a criteria developed by college principal College Foundation (ACF), for demon- Dr Geoffrey Madigan. strating leadership involvement in local And eight students were awarded $A4000 Academic Scholarships for achieving the equivalent of a

New South Wales High School dy Bra

Certificate score of R

more than 90. to: But these three Pho scholarships were Newly ordained minister Pastor Felix only a portion of Wardrobert standing with his family after the ordination. those available. "More than half- elix Wardrobert became the first a-million dollars FMelanesian minister to be ordained was available from in New Caledonia on February 22. various sources this Pastor Wardrobert took up ministry in year, including the the mid-1980s after originally planning a ACF, the college, career in tourism. and local business- Currently ministering at the Koumac

es," says Avondale church, he was recently appointed secre- der College public rela- tary and youth director for the 500-mem-

Pin tions director Phil ber New Caledonia Mission. J to: Knight. The ordination, held during the New Pho Applications for Caledonia Mission session, was taken by Pictured are some of the scholarship winners, including (back row, left next year's scholar- Central Pacific Union Mission (CPUM) to right): Leisa Sault. Rochelle Bews, Emma Weslake, Roger Wareham and Tony Parrish, and (front row) Michelle Smilek, Keryn-lee Walsh, ships are now being president Pastor Stenio Gungadoo, Ross McKenzie, Kristin Chapman and Susanne Fickling. taken. CPUM secretary Pastor Fonua Ofa and New Caledonia Mission president Pastor Global Mission Prayer Corner Eddy Johnson.—Rodney Brady r and Mrs Somasundaran have supposedly retired. But they are working Senegal Baptism M tirelessly as Global Mission Pioneers in Hassan, India. Currently there are four branch a Breakthrough Sabbath schools operating in their target area, and one study group. oussa Ba dit Aliou, 18, recently The Somasundarans visit each Mbecame the first Seventh-day group on a rotating basis. Adventist among the Peul, a large ethnic The Somasundarans have been group in Senegal. serving as Global Mission Pioneers After being baptised by local minister since 1991. Pastor Abraham Diedhiou, Mr Aliou said Their seven-year ministry has he wanted to become a Seventh-day resulted in 24 people being bap- Adventist pastor and minister to his own tised. Two of these are Brahmans— people. members of the highest-ranking Prior to Mr Aliou's baptism, there was Hindu cast. not one Adventist among the 800,000 people of the Peul tribe.

12 RECORD April 26, 1997 LETTERS

Opinion Leaders Bible study; my attitude to giving; my place, all that he seeks will be lost and, thoughts on the preacher over lunch; and given time, Sabbath services will degen- Over the past few weeks two high-pro- how I treat others. I will have to stop erate into nothing more than a concert. file magazines have featured articles on being judgmental of others; and I will stop (Pastor) Ian Johnston, NSW topics dear to the hearts of Seventh-day treading on the edges of the Sabbath. Adventists. In fact, if Berto doesn't stop parading Simple Gifts Important The Bulletin addressed Creation in the me, I'll have to give myself entirely over It would be a tragedy if members were context of an impending court action by to Christ and let Him make my life over. not inspired by the recent series of a Melbourne professor against Dr Allen Then I'm sure that Berto's nasty side- Sabbath school Bible-study guides to Roberts's claims about Noah's ark. Time swipes at me will no longer upset me, find and use their special gift or talent. magazine carried an extensive article and my conscience will be clear. Maybe Most of us need encouragement, for entitled "Does Heaven Exist?" that would then silence his pen. example, to get us going. Many success- In both instances the view of clergy Rob Garvin, WA ful pastors, evangelists, teachers etc went across a range of religions—Western and to college because of a simple pat on the Eastern—are quoted. Nowhere do the Vital Facts for Worship back (plus the suggestion to go). views of the Seventh-day Adventist Rob Steed's "Worship: Why Do We Recently my wife was in hospital. She Church appear, although comments from Gather?" (TAUC Report, March 29) was blessed by visits from two sweet, the Church of the Incarnation were men- failed to recognise some vital facts in Catholic lay women, a Catholic priest tioned in Time. denying that worship is the primary pur- and the Salvation Army. Our minister Bearing in mind that both these issues pose of meeting together on Sabbath. invites his neighbours to attend his are fundamental to our church, it should Whenever God is present and recognised, church—they have all come. Such are the concern leaders and members that as an worship automatically takes priority. things we can all do. "opinion leader" on these topics, our The article quotes exclusively from There is no limit to the small tasks that church is not seen as worthy of any opin- the New Testament in discussing the the Lord can use in a powerful way. So let ion or comment. Nor does it seem that beliefs of the early church. But the us all share in the joy of service. the church is placing itself in a position Scriptures used by them were the Old D S Faull, NSW where its beliefs are widely known in the Testament. There, worship was the pri- public arena. mary reason for gathering together— Views expressed in Letters do not necessarily represent Roger Hargreaves, ACT revealed in command and practice. those of the editors or the denomination. Letters should not exceed 250 words and should be mailed to Record Editor, When worship is the primary purpose Signs Publishing Company, Warburton Victoria 3799 Whingeing Critic of the Sabbath service, all that Pastor (CompuServe 74617,726; Internet 74617.726@compuserve.com). Writers must include their name, address and I really enjoy Record and the (mostly) Steed seeks for and more will be accom- telephone number. Letters received more than three weeks excellent articles. But there is just one sec- plished. But if it is relegated to any lesser after the date of the issue carrying the article to which they respond will normally not be printed. All letters will be edited tion that gets under my skin and, I notice, to meet space and literary requirements, but the author's orig- gets under others' too. It's that guy Berto. inal meaning will not be changed. Not all letters received will be published. who does all those nasty "Coincidence" cartoons. Couldn't you find anything bet- VSt ainCIV8/160- ter to put into your magazine? The guy always seems to be having a go at me. If it isn't bad enough that he - snoops around checking on me, he then taiNWNE has to parade my faults to the rest of my WELCOME A church family. It's disconcerting and EQUAR HEMS a embarrassing to open Record and find 7 ' my faults and secrets there. Sometimes I feel like the British royalty, who only have to take one step out of line and it's flashed before the world. It isn't fair. If you don't get rid of him, I'll have to take some drastic action, and when that happens then everyone will really know about it! I'll have to do something about my

RECORD April 26, 1997 13 CHILDREN Peter Pumpkin Seed by Eric Diserens

y name is Peter Pumpkin was warm and I noticed that I was This was fun. MSeed. I began as a seed beginning to dry out. That wasn't When I poked out of the soil, I inside a big Queensland blue so bad because I was a bit slimy. was in the sunshine again. That pumpkin. There were lots of us. I enjoyed the sunshine. It was was better. And there was the rest We were a big family of seeds. better than being inside a pump- of my family. They were just begin- One day there was a sudden kin. Although it was a bit scary ning to peek out of the soil too. flash of light. It was so bright after when one of the chooks pecked at We played games of seeing how the darkness of the inside of the me. Mrs Brown chased her away. far we could reach. I had twisty pumpkin. Then along comes Farmer bits on my runners and could grab Farmer Brown was cutting my Brown and scoops all of us into a hold of things. I even climbed a home into small pieces. Then Mrs tin. He takes us into a shed. It was fence with one of my runners. Brown cooked it. dark in the tin. Then I grew some flowers. I A couple of the Brown children You know what I did? I went to didn't know I could do that. The didn't like cooked pumpkin much sleep. rest of my family did the same. so some of my old home was Farmer Brown woke me when I was sad the day the flowers thrown into the mush bucket. he took the tin off the shelf. More began to die. But then I began to How would you like your cozy sunshine. The next thing I knew I grow pumpkins! What a surprise! home chopped up and cooked? was being pushed into the dirt. Farmer Brown seemed pleased. And eaten? Or thrown in the mush I didn't like it at first. But the So was I. bucket? earth was warm and moist—that I started out as a little seed and Later on the scraps were thrown felt good on my dry skin. here I was growing pumpkins! to feed the chooks. Something strange began to That's when I knew that God As for me, I was scraped into a happen. I began to grow. Wow! had a plan for me. Just like He has bowl with the rest of my family. We What a feeling. for all of us. were taken outside and spread out A small white root came out of on some newspaper in the sun. my pointy end. Then, above it, a Eric Diserens writes from Numinbah Valley in It was quite cosy in the sun. It shoot headed to the surface. Queensland.

Holman—Moore. Kenneth Ian Holman, Anniversary Weddings son of George Holman (Warragul, Vic) and Obituaries the late Shirly Holman, and Carolyn Anne Stocken, Bill and Marj (nee Feam) were Debelec—Cammareri. Frank Moore, daughter of Ivan and Maureen Cox, Albert Raymond, born 23.5.18; died married on 23.3.37 by the late Pastor W Debelec, son of Les and Serafine (Lela) Cumuck (Bundaberg, Qld), were married on 28.12.96. He was a faithful church member Battye. This was the first wedding to be held Debelec (Cooranbong, NSW), and Racquel 31.3.97 at Westridge Adventist church at Oamaru for many years and was loved Cammareri, daughter of Paul and Pamela Toowoomba. Ray J Fraser dearly by the church family and the local Cammareri (Mirrabooka), were married on community. He was predeceased by his 6.4.97 at Avondale Memorial Adventist Robertson—Radford. Kyle Graham wife, Christina, on 9.10.96. He is survived church. Ray C Roennfeldt Robertson, son of Graham and Helen by his children, Raymond, Valerie, Annette Robertson (Toowoomba, Qld), and Deborah and Lorna. Z J Edwards French—Beveridge. Alan Stanley Narelle Radford, daughter of John and French, son of Ernie and Verlie French Robyn Radford (Narromine, NSW), were Heath, (Pastor) Harold Joseph, born (Nerang. Qld), and Sherelle Joy Beveridge, married at Westridge Adventist church, 15.4.17 in Christchurch, NZ; died 22.3.97 daughter of Donald and Merilyn Beveridge Toowoomba. Martin Brown at Port Macquarie, NSW. He married Rosa (Leongatha, Vic), were married on 28.3.97 Brunt on 15.1.47. During World War II he at Terrigal, NSW. Wayne French Rosenberg—Clarke. Eldon John was stationed in Fiji in the New Zealand Rosenberg, son of Neil Rosenberg medical corps. He served as a teacher at in the Woolahra (Sydney) church. Sixty Grant—Rogers. Mark Ivan Grant, son of (Mannum, SA) and Margaret Rosenberg Longburn College, NZ; headmaster, years later, Bill and Man celebrated their Ivan and Gwen Grant (Balwyn, Vic), and (Warburton, Vic), and Suzanne Anita Papanui Adventist school; primary teacher 60th wedding anniversary in Sydney with Jennifer Ann Rogers, daughter of Trevor and Clarke, daughter of Ron and Nita Clarke trainer, Avondale College, and education their children, Beverley and Bruce Tulloch Doreen Rogers (Oakleigh), were married on (Murray Bridge, SA), were married on director, TAUC, TTUC and Greater Sydney (Gold Coast, Qld), Robert Stocken (Sydney, 6.4.97 at East Prahran Adventist church. 30.3.97 at Avondale College church. Conference. These appointments covered a NSW), Frances and Donald Clark Morrie Krieg Ray Dickson period of 31 years. He was ordained in (Wamberal) and Christine and Owen Twist 1966. In his retirement he worked as a vol- (Canberra, ACT). They have also been Greenfield—McLeod. Geoffrey Peter Southon—Webster. Mark Southon, unteer for ADRA and the SES. He is sur- blessed with I I grandchildren and 14 great- Greenfield, son of Timothy and Sandra son of Don and Heather Southon vived by his wife, Rosa (Sydney); children, grandchildren. It is the wish of all the family Greenfield (Okaihau, NZ), and Ainslee Joan (Murwillumbah, NSW), and Cara Webster, Cheryl and Lyndon Dyer, and Rosanne and and their many friends that God will bless McLeod, daughter of Rod and Sue McLeod daughter of Graham and Michele Webster John Jackson; and grandson Toby (all of them in the years to come. (Whangarei), were married on 6.10.96 at (Sydney), were married on 23.3.97 at Sydney). Christine Twist Whangarei Adventist church. George C Porter Kellyville Adventist church. Jeff Poots Eric Greenwell, Rod Anderson

14 RECORD April 26, 1997 POLYNESIAN ISLAND CRUISE ,ressa 1997 June 18 - July 4

This may be the most stressful time of your whole life! • Cruise from Brisbane to Samoa, Tonga, Sometimes you'll wonder who you are, where Vanuatu and Fiji. you're going, and if you're ever likely to arrive. • 17 fabulous days for the whole family. Many young people today see life as a fatal dis- • Visit mission sites at Fulton and Beulah. ease, with little hope of recovery, but stress can • Visit marketplaces and duty-free shops. work for you instead of against you. • Play onboard ball sports or just relax. •-> It can power you toward the person you want to • Snorkel with brilliantly coloured tropical be! fish or relax on beautiful white sandy beaches. Targeted at youth and young adults, this 22-minute • Travel in modern air-conditioned cabins. video contains footage of world-famous athletes, along

with some good, practical advice. You'll be impressed! Contact: The Cruise Director, South Queensland Conference Available NOW from your Advent' 19 Eagle Terrace, Brisbane Qld 4000. Phone (07) 3218 7777 or fax (07) 3236 1305. Centre. RRP $A29.95.

Ricketts, Stephen John, born 24.1.54 in Press Operator Wanted. Tradesman WTS Furniture Removal. Local, coun- Advertisers Please Note: All advertise- Sydney, NSW; died 13.1.97 at Neringah printer required at Signs Publishing try and long-distance. Storage provided and ments should be sent to Record Editor, Signs Hospital, Wahroonga. On 5.8.95 he was Company. Work includes single-colour to packing supplied. All goods insured. Free Publishing Company, Warburton Vic 3799. baptised at Wahroonga Adventist church. four-colour printing of both large and small quote. PO Box 214, Williamstown Vic 3016. Advertisements approved by the editor will be He is survived by his wife, Donna; and son, formats. Over-award rates apply. Please send Phone (03) 9397 7190 all hours. Mobile inserted at the following rates: first 30 words, Casey. Eric Greenwell, John Silver CV to Alan Holman at Signs Publishing phone 018 383 140. New depot in Brisbane: $A30; each additional word, $A1.50. For your Company, Warburton Vic 3799, or contact on phone (07) 3841 2621, mobile phones 018 advertisement to appear, payment must be Stratford, Rhoda (nee Petersen), born (03) 5966 9111, fax (03) 5966 9019. 732 773, 015 673 322. enclosed. Classified advertisements in the 17.2.01; died 12.3.97 at the Charles Record are available to Seventh-day Adventist Harrison Nursing Home, Cooranbong. Adventist Retirement Village, All Clear Pest Control Services. members, churches and institutions only. NSW. She was baptised by Pastor Reuben Toowoomba has a two-bedroom unit in Modem, efficient, economical. Domestic and Hare in Brisbane, Qld. After graduating excellent condition with single garage as well commercial. Owner operator. 10% discount from Avondale College in 1922 her church as carport. The unit is conveniently located to Record readers. 2% donated to ADRA. employment included appointments to the close to the church and opposite picturesque Sydney and Gosford areas. Phone David Signs Publishing Company, Warburton, parklands, within walking distance of the Williams (02) 9477 6635. Vic, where she married her first husband, City Centre. May either be purchased or Pastor C M Snow. She then served in the leased. Prospectus available upon request. Victorian Conference office before trans- Contact: D Peers (076) 35 36 38 AH, H Leins Berri Riverland ferring to the South Pacific Division, (076) 32 5411 BH. Wahroonga, NSW. In 1947 she married Seventh-day Adventist Church Pastor S V Stratford. She is survived by her North Coast, NSW Farm and sisters, Laura Kent and Olive Bradley; step- Buildings. 143 acres, picturesque location. invites former ministers, members children; and nieces and nephews. Creek, well improved, frost-free area, very fer- and friends to the T J Bradley, R Kent tile, clean. $2,0(X) per acre. Reply (066)89 1385. Official Opening Cooranbong and Morisset Areas— of the new church complex Advertisements Moving to our area, or if you need your rental property professionally managed, or if you May 38 4 Please Note: Neither the editor, Signs would like to sell your property—give us a Publishing Company, nor the Seventh-day call. Raine and Home: Cooranbong—Grant Sabbath Morning 9.30 am The Great Adventist Church is responsible for the quali- Lawson or Len Farquharson (049) 77 1222. Dedication Service 11.15 am Controversy ty of goods or services advertised. Morisset—Warwick Lawson or John Britten Sabbath Afternoon 2.30 pm Publication does not indicate endorsement of (049) 70 5577. Bonnells Bay—Amanda Concert Town Hall 8.00 pm 16-page lift-out a product or service. Saunders or Karen Fehlberg (049) 73 4233. Sunday Official Opening 2.00 pm May Signs Spiritual Growth. The Desire of Ages and New! World Book 1997 Multimedia Sunrise Court, Berri Steps to Christ for spiritual growth. The Encyclopedia. Three CD set only $149 Ministry of Healing for witnessing and guid- (terms, trade-ins TAP). Brochures on other Church Clerk (08) 8587 2284 Finally: What can't be ance. The Great Controversy, including chap- educational products. Learning Journey, Box Senior Elder (08) 8583 9335 ters 27 + 37 + 21 for sharing. Available at 2221, Green Hills NSW 2323. Phone (049) Pastor (08) 8582 4023 done by advice can often Adventist Book Centres. 33 4539, fax (049) 34 7082. be done by example.

RECORD April 26, 1997 15 Inspirational stories for women who VE 1' want their faith to grow in fid VicA'rF Faith Never Shrinks in Hot Water by Linda E Shepherd In Faith Never Shrinks in Hot Water, gifted storyteller, speaker and humorist Linda Shepherd shares intimate stories about her life's lessons in faith. Not all of the stories have the traditional happy ending, but Linda's experiences offer proof that unanswered i iN prayers, tragedies and problems are not indications that God has abandoned you. Instead, personal adversity can lead to a closer, more fulfilling relationship with God. Travel back with Linda over her life's journey and discover what she learned—that God is ever faithful, even when you're up to your ears in a world of hot water.

"Faith Never Shrinks in Hot Water has so much life and sparkle in it that it's a delight to read. Linda's experiences are written with clarity and vividly show how her faith in God was tested and passed the test. I loved every page of this book." —Barbara Johnson

REGULAR PRICE $A16.65 $NZ22.50 K18.30 SPECIAL $A14.95 $NZ19.95 K15.95

ORDER FROM YOUR ABC SECRETARY OR ADVENTIST BOOK CENTRE MAY BOOK OF THE MONTH