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NEWS INMATES FOLLOW JESUS THROUGH BAPTISM 5
ADVENTIST RECORD | MAY 4, 2019 ISSN 0819-5633 NEW RESOURCES · INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS · INSPIRING WORKSHOPS 23-25 AUGUST 2019 · PIONEER THEATRE, 14 PENNANT ST, CASTLE HILL, NSW 2154 Conference details and registration www.eliawellness.com/summit2019
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May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 3 news calvyn Png Schools host church activities Tracey bridcutt While in Kerema, Papua New An initiative to bring church in Kambubu [Adventist Secondary Guinea, recently, I had my photo members onto school campuses School] where a women’s minis- taken with two Calvyns. It is not in Papua New Guinea is having a tries program was conducted. The unusual that I have my photo taken. But my middle name is positive impact on the schools. church members who came saw also Calvyn. So there were three Jim Yawane, Papua New Guinea the need and were able to set aside people named Calvyn in the Union Mission Adventist Education a few kinas to assist in some main- picture. The two men were a little director, said they were encour- tenance work.” younger than me and we all work aging church programs and activi- Recently, a district youth camp for the Church. ties to be held on school campuses. meeting was held at Konkua One was the secretary treasurer By bringing church members in, Adventist Primary School, attended of the South West Papua Mission they can learn about the school and by about 450 youth. and the other was the education see the needs it may have. “The youth have decided they director for the Mission. But there “They know that the school is will adopt the school for this year was another link—we were all an Adventist school, but they don’t and that simply means they will named after my father. My dad’s often get to see the school and be available if the school needs name is Calvyn and it is a bit of a feel part of the school,” Mr Yawane anything, like cleaning up and just family tradition that the eldest son said. any odd jobs around the school. gets the first name of their father “[This initiative] worked very well They [the youth] will be able to as their middle name. However assist, and even [do some] what about the others? fundraising,” Mr Yawane Back in the 1970s my dad said. mentored, trained and developed “[This initiative] encour- both of these men’s fathers. They would travel together, pray and ages the youth and the study together, teach and train church members and the pastors and church members school, just helping them to together. In the process they all grow spiritually and to do Attendees at Konkua. became disciple-making disciples. things together.” Because of the discipling relation- ship Dad had with these two men, they named their sons after him. My grandfather once told me he students get hands dirty for clean water named my dad Calvyn in honour Bruna tawake of the great Swiss Reformer John Edinburgh College Year 11 Calvin. Calvin, like all reformers, students and their teachers helped had a strong personality and built a 22,500L water tank for was known for his deep intellect a community in Central Santo, and theological insights and for Vanuatu during their recent ADRA creating Christian community. Connections trip. All of us need a Calvyn in “The Connections trip is our lives. Each of us needs to well-established as Year 11’s rite students welcomed. be a Calvyn to others. Strong, of passage, helping wean students community-minded, searching and seeking God, supporting off the comforts of home and and it was not what I expected,” and developing others on the develop independence,” said Ledua said student Anika Homann. “I journey as a Christian. This is Brooks, a teacher at Edinburgh thought we would be working how disciple-making College and one of the trip leaders. the whole time, but I was able to works and how a Students and teachers made spend time with the community, disciple-making strong connections with the and the locals helped us build the movement begins community, with the locals helping water tank. One of my favourite and grows. with the more challenging tasks, days was Sabbath. It is so amazing and women and children joining in how much the community gets Glenn townend the concrete mixing. together and worships God. I think SPD President “I really enjoyed the Connec- that is something we can learn /SPDpresident tions trip. It is my first mission trip from and bring back home.”
4 Adventist record | may 4, 2019 Literature ministries coordinator appointed jarrod stackelroth Long-time literature evangelist in their local communities through Brenton Lowe has been appointed distributing materials such as Signs of Literature Ministries coordinator at the Times, tracts and books. Adventist Media—the latest develop- “We also need to move beyond ment in the plan to expand literature conventional distribution methods ministry in Australia and New Zealand. and explore/try some innovative Mr Lowe has been a full-time approaches. This may include using Brenton Lowe. literature evangelist (LE) for 19 years, new technology, pop-up stores in including the past 10 years leading the shopping centres or other high traffic and sharing their faith through litera- ministry for the Western Australian areas, book boxes, and creating leads ture and other media,” said Mr Lowe. Conference. through digital channels for LEs.” “Empowering churches, members and “I am looking forward to working Mr Lowe’s appointment coincides LEs to share the good news through with the Adventist Media team and with the launch of a new literature creative ideas that work best in their conferences to grow Literature Minis- ministry conference grant and innova- local context.” tries in distribution, engagement and tion fund, open for entry by any church The funds will be released from July mission,” Mr Lowe said. member or church organisation who 1. Applications are open now. Submit According to AM CEO Dr Brad can answer the following three ques- proposals to
Inmates follow jesus through baptism Jean-pierre niptik Seventeen inmates from the dignitaries witnessed the baptism, the need in our prisons.” medium-risk prison in Port Vila including the first political advisor of Each Sabbath, minister Jack Tahun (Vanuatu) were baptised on Sabbath, Internal Affairs, George Naunun, and and Jackson Noal have a one-hour March 23, at Teoumaville Seventh-day director of correctional services Johnny worship program with the prisoners. Adventist Church as a result of the Marango. Elders from several Adventist Mr Tahun said, “We do this ministry church’s prison ministry. churches in Port Vila were also present. because Jesus said in His Word, ‘When The inmates were escorted to the “The prison ministries from churches I was in prison you visited me.’” church by correctional officers in prison have made our rehabilitation programs Prior to the baptism, Teoumaville vehicles. A number of government effective,” Mr Marango said. “It church pastor John Leeman presented releases a lot of tension . . . a message on the life of Paul, with the it has prepared them to go 17 inmates and correctional service back to their communities officers seated in the pews. Pastor as changed persons.” Leeman said, “Sometimes God chooses Teoumaville is one of people who are terrible sinners and the churches on Efate that changes them to men and women He is active in prison ministry. could use in His work.” Head elder Jackson Miake Last year two baptisms were said, “Our prison ministry conducted for inmates in the low-risk has a leader who was prison—12 inmates were baptised in Pastor john leeman baptises an inmate nominated and voted in our Epauto church and another 12 were at teoumaville church. meetings because we see baptised inside the prison.
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 5 elders retreat focuses on leadership russell woruba Church elders from the Gordons figures translate to quali- church in Port Moresby, Papua New tative or organic growth Guinea, held a retreat on Sabbath, at the local churches. April 6, at Pacific Adventist Universi- Participants reported ty’s Koiari Park campus, with a special greatly appreciating focus on developing spiritual leader- the leadership princi- ship for the end times. ples derived from the The retreat included sessions lives of Moses, Daniel facilitated by seasoned leaders: retired and Paul as well as the Central Papua Conference president presenters’ deep insights and veteran evangelist Pastor Tony taken from the biblical Kemo, who covered the spiritual texts’ Hebrew and Greek On good soil: Elders Responding Well to the Messages discipline of a church leader; Dr Joses contexts. Imona, who unpacked leadership in According to organisers, application focused organic growth—a sign of the book of Daniel; and Dr Loren Poli, of biblical principles in today’s modern maturity at the local church. whose speciality is in leadership in world has been a challenge for many Gifts were presented to the both the Old and New Testaments. local church leaders. speakers by senior elder Koney According to Dr Poli, who is also a Gordons church, like most churches Samuel. He elaborated the need to be member of the South Pacific Division’s in Port Moresby, plans to organise its committed, courageous and faithful Biblical Research Committee, reports branch churches and launch out much amidst a time of great apostasy. from the PNG Union and SPD have deeper in the next five years. The Gordons church elders plan to shown quantitative growth in Central Feedback provided by participants have another retreat towards the end Papua Conference. However, the main indicated that training such as the of the year to reflect and review plans challenge has been whether these retreat provided, was essential for for the next five years and beyond.
6 Adventist record | may 4, 2019 Aussie school goes bush news grabs Vania Chew Every Tuesday afternoon, an Adventist to increase it to lunchtimes every day. school in northern New South Wales “I’ve worked in Adventist schools “goes bush”. From 12:30 pm onwards, for 30 years, but this is the best thing students at Manning Adventist School I’ve ever done,” she said. “I’d love head outside and enjoy a few hours of to gain a Level 4 accreditation, train unstructured play in nature. other teachers and help implement this Activities include weaving, mud play, program in all of our NSW Adventist bushwalking, slacklining, studying insects schools.” and building dens. top of the class Head teacher Dianne Hillsdon is the For the second year in a row, an Adventist physician has ranked first leader of the “bush school” initiative. in the Phillipine Physician Licensure “It’s been very successful in building Examination. Clinton Rabadon is the confidence and creating resilience,” said fifth Adventist physician to take the Mrs Hillsdon. “In a time when children top spot in the past 13 years. Six are more anxious and stressed than other Adventists also placed in the top 10.—Adventist News Network ever, it gives time for us as teachers to connect, build relationships and under- stand children’s behaviour. It gives children the chance to be creative, use their imaginations and become more environmentally-conscious.” Mrs Hillsdon is an accredited Forest School Leader (Level 3). This involved studying for more than 12 months and “There is a ‘buzz’ around the local travelling to the UK twice to complete town. People are hearing about what we the course. She believes she is the only are doing at Manning,” said Mrs Hillsdon. easy giving accredited teacher in Adventist Schools “We have been on the television, radio Giving tithe and offerings just Australia. and newspapers in the past month. This became easier for Adventists in Bush School currently runs one after- week we had the local preschool come North America with the launch of the Adventist Giving app. Members can noon a week, but Mrs Hillsdon would like to visit.” donate tithe and offerings digitally and set up recurring payments each month. Churches within the US and Canada can sign up for free. —Kimberly Luste Maran/NAD
rebuilding romania ADRA has built 300 houses in Romania as part of their “Rebuilding Hope” project. ADRA International president Jonathan Duffy said he is proud ADRA and the Adventist Church in Romania teamed up to make this project a reality. “Each home represents a family whose life has been changed,” he said.—ADRA Taking learning from the classroom to the great outdoors.
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 7 Festival of faith renews students’ commitments to Christ Maritza brunt A week of spiritual emphasis held at important.” Avondale College (NSW) has seen 10 Pastor Goodall’s students requesting baptism and nearly message to the 30 students committing their lives to students: God is service. good with you. Festival of Faith, as the week of He illustrated this spiritual emphasis is known, is held by referring to the early in each semester. It’s completely three classes of student-run, something Avondale sacrificial animals— College chaplain Ray Moaga said is bull, sheep or crucial in empowering the students in goat, and dove or their faith journey. pigeon—mentioned Students lead out in worship. “When students come to the in the first chapter. program, they know that it’s their “You realise they’re all listed so spiritual walk, this year’s decision cards friends who are leading them in people in every economic class could also asked students if they wanted to worship, setting up the prayer room have access to God,” he said. “Some of serve, giving a choice of serving on or greeting them at the door,” he said. the texts in Leviticus are pretty brutal campus or at College Church. More “It’s a discipleship process—we have and make me uncomfortable, but when than 30 students indicated a desire to student leaders, and my job is to make we refocus and see things as the orig- serve in some way at College Church, sure they’re all doing okay, but really, inal audience saw them, then we see while 27 students said they would be the students run 99.9 per cent of the something beautiful.” more comfortable serving in some way program.” Before the Festival of Faith began, on campus. “[Our theme was] Refocus,” said Pastor Moaga initiated a “prayer chal- “So often we have decision cards Sahil Nath, who coordinated Festival of lenge” for all staff and students, inviting that come in where the person has Faith in his role as Student Associated them to gather to read Scripture and ticked a box simply saying they want Ministries leader. “We wanted to bring a spend time talking to God. With up to serve,” said Alex Green, associate new perspective to the Old Testament.” to 20 participants some days, Pastor pastor of College Church. “From a Pastor Brock Goodall, who serves Moaga said the student involvement in follow-up perspective, that can be Haven Campus Church at Central Coast the challenge even inspired some staff difficult, because we have no idea in Adventist School, spoke 11 times during members to take up a regular prayer what capacity that person means. Do the week on Leviticus. The book, which walk. they want to serve in their community, emphasises ritual, legal and moral The event, which was live-streamed their family, their church? If we are practices, is not as accessible as others on the Avondale Student Life Facebook able to distinguish where a student is in the Bible. page, drew more than 6000 views more comfortable serving, then we can “And that’s the reason I chose it,” across the week. On Friday night alone, follow that up much more effectively said Pastor Goodall. “We read it, and it more than 1000 people tuned in to and intentionally.” makes no sense, which only reinforces watch the program. The buzz on campus following the why we don’t read it. But the book’s in The decision cards, handed out on Festival of Faith is something that the Bible for a reason. Someone took Friday evening, played an important remains with the students for months. the effort to write it down, so it must be role in laying groundwork for further “It’s such a highlight and a real commitment spiritual booster for the campus,” said and service. Ten Pastor Green. “It’s an intentional week students in total where students are being fed spirit- requested baptism, ually twice a day with solid biblical a further 13 asked teaching. They can wrestle with and for Bible studies explore Scripture for themselves, pray, and 30 students be encouraged and worship God with indicated they had their peers. Every single time we hold a specific prayer a Festival of Faith, the spiritual temper- request. ature on campus just increases. Before Committed to [last week’s event], students were still Pastor Brock Goodall at Avondale ensuring students talking about the Festival of Faith we College’s Festival of Faith. continued their had in second semester of last year.”
8 Adventist record | may 4, 2019 flashpoint
Virtual pets Love thy neighbour Students at Macarthur Adventist Adventist churches across Port College (NSW) have been having Vila (Vanuatu) have been visiting lots of fun learning about the more than 100 Bangladeshi world of coding. On March COMMUNITY CARE Intergenerational joy men who are victims of alleged 27 and 28, Peter Wallace, the The Disabled Australian Appren- A group of children from the human trafficking and held up e-learning specialist from the tice Wage Scheme program Landsborough Adventist Church in Port Vila by the law enforce- Greater Sydney Conference, has commenced at the ADRA (Qld) recently entertained about ment agencies of the country. visited the school to teach the Community Centre in Springvale 30 residents at the Blue Care Twice a month, the churches students about the digital world (Vic). The program employs Maleny Erowal aged-care facility. take turns visiting the stranded and how to use micro:bits—a students with disabilities to earn They performed musical items, workers, providing them with type of coding device. “Students an income while completing a recited poems, shared stories and much-needed food and other created a virtual pet that Certificate 2 in Horticulture. Eight quizzes, and joined in community humanitarian support and care. responded to touch through light students will be establishing singing with the audience. The “When we went to the national and sound,” said Year 5 teacher gardens, and the produce will be residents were also treated with police office to ask permission Jacqui Maua. “The students sold to Chinese markets across gifts of flowers and handmade to visit these men, they were so really enjoyed exploring with the Melbourne’s south-east, in part- book marks. Kylie Leahy, the happy that Adventists have come micro:bits and look forward to nership with the Asian Australian program coordinator, said it was a forward to help them look after creating and coding with them Business Women’s Association great opportunity for the children the victims of crime,” said Efate more throughout the year.” Inc and Afri-Aus Care.—ADRA to interact with the older genera- district ministries leader, Pastor —Daniel Lavaiamat Victoria tion.—Glasshouse Country News John Leeman.—Jean Pierre Niptik
kids helping kids Children at Wahroonga Seventh-day Adventist Church (Sydney, NSW) are helping disadvantaged kids in Papua New have a Guinea. The church’s Kindergarten Sabbath School class has “adopted” the two Operation Food For Life early learning news story? schools in PNG and is providing health and hygiene kits for the students. They have called the program “Kids helping email it to kids”. So far their fundraising efforts have enabled them to purchase 200 kits containing items such as a face towel, [email protected] comb, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush.—Dennis Perry
Buckets of love Sowing seeds mission minded Navesau Adventist High School (Fiji) adopted Small congregations can struggle to make an Beulah College (Tonga) recently welcomed a Naiyala High School and its neighbouring impact on their local community, but members mission team from Mountain View Academy villages as part of its Global Youth Day from Echuca Adventist Church (Vic) believe in California, US. The 91-member team, program. Teachers and students collected they’ve found a winning formula: a monthly including 51 students, helped out with a more than 35 buckets of groceries, which stall held at the Moama Market, the largest number of projects, including repainting they distributed to the school and villages. markets in the twin towns of Echuca and and tiling one of the girls’ dormitory rooms They donated 30 loaves of bread to Naiyala Moama. The stall is marked by a large ADRA providing free dental check-ups and hosting school and also shared Jesus with the Australia gazebo, raising the profile of the evangelistic meetings. On March 30, 16 students.—Sailosi Baleiwai church, and gives church members opportu- students from Beulah and 10 from Mountain nities to interact with the public.—Jack Spencer View were baptised.—Record staff
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 9 Faith
WHY WE RUN
ran my first half marathon three years ago. The time? gold medal. The “fastest man on earth” achieved the same 1:42:07 (that’s one hour, 42 minutes and seven seconds). result in the 200 metre event, thus cementing his place as IFor the elite or ultra-runner, that time may be nothing to one of the greatest athletes of all time. write home about. But for someone who spent his entire It was a couple of other track athletes at the Rio Olym- life playing sports like basketball and table tennis, running pics, though, who were lauded the world over for embod- 21 kilometres was an achievement in and of itself. ying the “Olympic spirit”. I ran my first full marathon three weeks later. The time? In the final laps of the 5000 metre heat, New Zealand 3:55:03. This one pretty much broke me. After the race I runner Nikki Hamblin tripped and fell, collecting the United wasn’t even excited; I was simply a pale green mess with States’ Abbey D’Agostino in the process. Instead of getting tears in my eyes. Never again, I thought as I sat on the kerb to her feet and continuing her race, D’Agostino reached trying not to pass out. Never again . . . down and pulled the stunned New Zealander off the ground. A year later I improved on both of my times, shaving As the pair tried to get going, the US runner faltered and off—weirdly enough—exactly two minutes and 12 seconds fell once more, her right knee badly injured from the initial at each event (so much for “never again”). accident.2 Hamblin, however, refused to leave D’Agostino’s Sometimes I get asked what my favourite running event side, stopping and reaching out both arms to help her pain- is. My answer is always the same: 100 metres. (Actually, stricken opponent.3 here and now, due to injuries and too many hours sitting, “When I went down it was like, ‘What’s happening? Why it’s probably more like 50 metres.) am I on the ground?’” Hamblin would later recall. “And Ever since I was a boy I’ve wanted to run as fast as suddenly there’s this hand on my shoulder, like ‘Get up, get possible. Even now, I can hear my teacher’s voice in my up, we have to finish this!’”4 head explaining to me the golden rule of sprinting: “Keep The Bible likens a life of faith to a running race. “Do you your eyes on the finish line.” not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one “Ignore those around you,” she added. “Just run your gets the prize?” wrote the apostle Paul. “Run in such a way race.” as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24, NIV). An “eyes on the prize” mentality is not simply a clever This challenge, though, should not be misinterpreted. mantra; it’s a scientifically-proven way of optimising perfor- Paul’s message was a call to self-discipline—to prepare mance. One research paper described how “focusing visual and run with purpose (see verses 25 and 26). It was not an attention on a goal-relevant target helps make the goal invitation to “just run your race”. appear more within reach and engaged action”.1 There is a very real danger in using “fixing our eyes on In 2016, Jamaica’s Usain Bolt kept his “eyes on the Jesus”5 as an excuse to ignore our fellow runners, many of prize” to secure his third consecutive 100 metre Olympic whom may be hurting or in desperate need of help. Who
10 Adventist record | May 4, 2019 living his word With wayne boehm
CALLED TO FOLLOW
Ernest Shackleton advertised for a team to accompany him on a dangerous Antarctic journey. In a brutally honest newspaper ad, Shackleton hid nothing: “Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in event of success.” Would you apply? While some dispute the story, it is reported that 5000 people applied. Imagine knowing the challenges and enthu- siastically choosing to be part of a great cause that would charter new lands and create history. Now picture Peter and Andrew as they went about their busi- they are and/or how they run should never stop us from lending a hand. ness casting nets into the sea. After all, in this “race”—along this journey of faith—we are all compatriots, “Follow Me,” Jesus said. Possibly not competitors. Your salvation and mine matters to Christ just as much the shortest job ad ever. Perhaps as anyone else’s. There is no first place, no gold medal and no best time. more surprising is their response: There is indeed just one prize, but there’s enough of Him to go around. “immediately they left their nets During my first marathon, I well and truly “hit the wall” at around the and followed Him.” CONSIDER two 37-kilometre mark. I was dizzy and exhausted, and had to catch myself things in Matthew 4:18-22. from throwing up. Fortunately, I wasn’t running alone that day; I had my 1. They left their nets. The Greek girlfriend and another friend with me every step of the way. I don’t know word aphiami (left) doesn’t mean if I would’ve made it through the final part of that race had they not been they decided to give it a try for a there to encourage and push me (at times literally). while because fishing was slow. The If what the Bible says is true, this “race” we are running will soon come term means total abandonment. to an end. So how will we approach the final stretch? Will we, like Bolt, In Jesus, they saw a new path that ignore all else and sprint to the finish line, beating our own chest and eclipsed their current occupation— soaking in the glory? Or will we, like D’Agostino and Hamblin, stop and they would be “fishers of men”. extend a hand to a fallen comrade, so they too can complete the journey? Do you have any nets that Jesus is “Get up, get up . . . we have to finish this!” calling you to totally abandon? 2. Matthew to this point has told “Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their us a great deal about Jesus—in fact burdens, and so complete Christ’s law. If you think you are too good for 20 characteristics about Jesus which that, you are badly deceived” (Galatians 6:2,3, The Message). add to the weight of Jesus’ call to follow. See if you can identify all 20. 1. Cole, S, Riccio, M, & Balcetis, E (2014). Focused and fired up: Narrowed attention The disciples immediately recog- produces perceived proximity and increases goal-relevant action. Motivation and nised the authority of Jesus and Emotion, 38(6), 815-822. 2. A later diagnosis revealed D’Agostino tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the followed. You’ve been entrusted collision. with the most precious truth—the 3. See the full video at
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 11 News feature
Sydney Adventist schools achieve above average gains in numeracy and literacy
chools in the Greater Sydney Conference were recently recognised as achieving substantially Sabove-average gains in literacy and numeracy, according to the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA). Gains are measured against the national average, against schools with similar students and against students with similar starting scores. Gains show the growth in students who have taken consecutive NAPLAN tests at the same school. Principal at Mountain View Adventist College, Julia Heise credits above average growth in student learning to a focus on explicit instruction in literacy and numeracy, to the dedi- cation of the teachers and the unwavering commitment to the development of the whole child, practiced at the school. This is the third consecutive year Mountain View has seen academic gains in this area. “As educators, we need to prepare students for the 21st century. That requires a commitment to both the basics—reading, writing and mathematics as well as the four C’s—collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking,” Ms Heise noted. Dr Malcolm Coulson, principal of Hills Adventist College, agrees. “Our role as educators is to ensure that each and every student develops to their full potential. We are pleased to be recognised for achieving results that are beyond the expected. It is testament to the dedication of the teachers and staff of the school in providing a caring and nurturing environment where children can thrive.” Sydney Adventist School Auburn and Hurstville Adventist School were also recognised for above average gains in NAPLAN. Both schools are Prep to Year 6 and have a high percentage of children (as high as 97%) from non-English speaking backgrounds. “Over the past four years we have specifically focused on NAPLAN by ACARA. “It’s a privilege to be given the oppor- numeracy” said Neva Taylor, principal of Hurstville Adventist tunity to shape the future of the children entrusted to us. School. “We identify specific student needs and differen- A solid foundation in literacy and numeracy is core to the tiate learning across the school. One of the biggest chal- development of a lifelong learning philosophy,” principal lenges was the language of mathematics and this has been Michelle Streatfield said. a priority focus for the school.” “Above average growth for our students requires the Danyel Efstratiou, principal of Sydney Adventist School children to believe in themselves. As part of the Adventist Auburn, concurs. “Explicit instruction and differentiated Education philosophy we believe that each child is special. learning based on individual need is required, especially for We provide an environment where Christian values are those students who require additional assistance to meet upheld, and young minds can grow and flourish,” said minimum benchmarks.” Greater Sydney Education director, Dr Jean Carter. Wahroonga Adventist School, which is currently expanding from Primary to a full Prep–Year 12 school, Daniel Lavaiamat Marketing Manager, Seventh-day Adventist was similarly recognised for its academic achievements in Schools (Greater Sydney conference).
12 Adventist record | May 4, 2019 Technology
screenagers, glass and the gospel
he Adventist Church’s brand promise is: “We can help replaced with collaborating. you understand the Bible to find freedom, healing and For screenagers, everything they want to know can Thope in Jesus.” be found in a quick Google search, or by messaging their The Sabbath School Bible Study Guides provide a great friends on social media, or listening to the people they avenue towards fulfilling this promise. However as I’ve “follow” online. Consequently, with such a huge number travelled to different churches around the world, I’ve seen of young people using Instagram, I decided that this is the that many of our teens and youth don’t read or engage with perfect platform for sharing the Sabbath School Bible Study the Sabbath School Study Guides. It’s certainly rare to find Guides. a church on Sabbath morning where all the Sabbath School Each day I share a new post that has a big idea and three classes are overflowing with people from these age groups. main points from the daily Study Guide. Each post is less While there are many reasons for low attendance, I think than 100 words. The images in each post match the images it’s time we considered new and creative ways of engaging used in the Sabbath School App, and a link is provided for with the young members of our church. users to download the free app and read the full Study Instagram is a mobile social network that allows users to Guides in over 40 different languages. A range of hashtags edit and share photos and videos. It’s also one of the most organically bring users to the sdasabbathschool account. popular social networks in the world with 1 billion monthly Alternatively, users can search for sdasabbathschool in the active users. 32 per cent of all internet users are on Insta- Instagram search bar. gram, with a 50/50 split between male and female users. A key benefit of using Instagram is that users can share Instagram is most popular with teens and young Millen- comments and questions under each post. This engage- nials: 38 per cent of users are aged 13-24, and 31 per ment is important for those who live in remote locations cent of users are aged 25-34. Only 14 per cent of users and may not be able to attend a church each Sabbath. are aged over 45. In the United States (which has similar It also gives a voice to those who may not feel comfort- demographics to Australia), Instagram is the preferred able speaking up in their Sabbath School group at church. social network of teens (32%), beating both Twitter (6%), Significantly, these conversations can happen anywhere and Facebook (6%), and Pinterest (1%). Instagram users are also anytime as people from all over the world communicate well-educated: 42 per cent have a university degree and 36 together through Instagram. per cent have completed some university training. Back in the 1800s, Ellen White was shown in vision that Most churches continue to use printed Sabbath School her husband, James, should start a small newspaper, and booklets. But how many teens and youth read paper publi- like “streams of light” it would eventually go “clear round cations? Some, but not many. Our teenagers have been the world”. Today, in a digital age, this vision continues to replaced with multitasking screenagers who have substi- be fulfilled at light speed and the young members of our tuted paper for glass. Unlike the static medium of paper, churches are at the forefront of this new form of gospel glass provides a kinaesthetic, interactive, connective and proclamation! visual medium that is highly portable and always share- able. For the newest generations in our Adventist churches, jared martin Associate Pastor of Mt Gravatt and Brisbane Fijian verbal has been replaced with visual, sit-and-listen has Churches, and Bible Study App Developer. Visit
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 13 culture
YouTube mania AND THE CHURCH DISCONNECT
must admit it—I’m a big user of us something?) But it is the young bial gogglebox. Not only that, but the the internet. I use it extensively for greenhorns who’ll be sucked into this increasingly sophisticated algorithms Iresearch in my fields of interest— web of corruption, surely not us senior introduced into these programs will medicine, history, theology, biology citizens. “choose” for you similar material in (especially evolution vs creation), As one of those “oldies”, I’m told the sidebar to what you have been rocket science (those who know me I’m more susceptible to internet bank watching recently. One “click” and know I’m not kidding!) and even for fraud than, say, my children. But surely you’re on! You can easily enter an entertainment at times, as well as we of the older, wiser, warier, more endless world of watching videos that many other topics. considered and more careful genera- may subtly lead on to subjects you I also use the internet to deal with tion would be unlikely to be taken in by never intended to view. about 30-50 emails a day, to make nefarious material on the net? Weren’t I have friends who spend many purchases online and for financial we told as youngsters by our parents, hours watching YouTube videos on management. I read Adventist Record “You can’t believe everything you read everything from prophecy (mainly online and regularly help with my local in the newspapers” . . . and that was, non-Adventist), conspiracy material church issues online. When I have a for many of us, before television! (everything from the Kennedy assas- computer problem, there’s usually But there is a growing issue sination to aberrant theories about a solution to be found online. You’ll amongst us senior church members 9/11 and involvement of the CIA in also find advice on everything from that is causing me angst. While everything bad that ever happened), plumbing repairs to learning callig- viewing good and helpful material anti-Trinitarian material and a host of raphy. This kind of practical learning (Hope Channel, 3ABN etc) can help other “hot” religio-political topics. often comes via the rapidly expanding build our faith, there is now “out These videos are often presented world of YouTube. there” a plethora of material that is by glib, fast-talking and superficially Now, I’m aware of the many pitfalls subtly and not-so-subtly taking us credible talkers, and they usually have of the internet, including porn, scam- away from our fundamental beliefs as ads that earn them money. Some ming, hacking, online fraud and so on. Seventh-day Adventists. appear to have legitimate credentials— Like many, I have looked upon the bad One of the main avenues for this degrees from universities, scientific or aspects of the internet as affecting is YouTube. YouTube is particularly military experience—and may present mainly those much younger than me— attractive to the older generation “evidence” that appears convincing. Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z (What comes because it requires minimal computer While there are definitely some after Gen Z? Is the world trying to tell skills and is as “passive” as the prover- legitimate videos that raise issues of “. . . the almost hypnotic power of YouTube is, I believe, creating a generation of passive absorbers of poorly-documented ‘fake news’.”
concern to Adventists (such as the “smart” TV and browse YouTube (or Sabbath and our understanding of the trend towards government interfer- elsewhere) for material that appears state of the dead. These are two crit- ence with religious freedom), the to tell us what our preconceptions ical tests: if they fail those, shun them. almost hypnotic power of YouTube may desire or is sensational enough Do we want to be responsible for souls is, I believe, creating a generation of to excite our “sanctified” interest. lost, rather than won by the power of passive absorbers of poorly- Sometimes even at the expense of a “loving and lovable Christian”? documented “fake news”. Ironically, a “forsaking the assembling of ourselves Many Adventists have a tendency simple online search reveals facts that together” (Hebrews 10:25, KJV). I am to suspicion about the news, some- soundly discount the claims of some of aware of a few church members who times bordering on paranoia. That’s these charlatans. do just that—either regularly or inter- not entirely without reason, as we Now here are a few of my concerns: mittently. know that Satan’s deceptions will That Bible study becomes This sort of scenario takes away envelop the corridors of power and secondary to what I call “passive the lively and sometimes redemptive corrupt religious, political and social absorption”. The Bereans closely dialogue between church members, institutions, and that this will worsen compared the words of Paul with which may involve ministry, Sabbath as we approach the end of time. Most Scripture to establish truth (Acts School, church elders, deacons etc. of the book of Revelation reveals that. 17:11). Do we use that measure to The internet, in this case, becomes an But we must be exceedingly careful assess what we watch? isolating power and may encourage a that what we uncritically watch does Ellen White wrote: “. . . we need dangerous self-dependency in matters not separate us from the fundamental to be exceedingly careful, and walk of faith. hope we have in the ultimate redemp- humbly before God, that we may have This reliance on the internet some- tive power of faith in Christ, His work spiritual eyesalve that we may distin- times becomes such an addiction that in the heavenly temple to minister His guish the working of the Holy Spirit it can interfere with marital harmony. sacrifice, His final work of judgement of God from the working of that spirit Finally, although the internet can be and His second coming. that would bring in wild license and used to share the truth, it can equally Let’s ditch the couch, get out more fanaticism” (Selected Messages, Vol 1, be used, even innocently, to share and share what the Bible tells us, not p 142). subtle errors that lead people away YouTube! It is increasingly tempting to settle from biblical truth. This is especially into our comfortable couches on true of those internet “ministries” that dr david pennington retired Plastic Sabbath, turn on our computer or deny Adventist beliefs such as the Surgeon living in Lindfield, NSW. my ministry
Revelation meditations
hen a church decides they want to run a prophecy seminar, the budget is usually one of the first things they consider. How much money will they spend on advertising? If they don’t hold it at the Wchurch, will there be costs involved in booking a venue? And just how much will it cost to fly in that special international speaker? In 2018, Pastor Ross Chadwick, volunteer pastor at Dungog Seventh-day Adventist Church (NSW), had a list of contacts to whom he regularly sent uplifting spiritual text messages. This list included friends and colleagues who were going through difficult times; he intended for the texts to encourage them. The messages were usually Bible verses accompanied by short inspiring thoughts. On a couple of occasions, he included verses from the book of Revelation. Towards the end of the year, a non-Adventist contact who had been receiving the texts asked whether Pastor Chadwick could begin sending short devotional thoughts on Revelation as she found the book confusing to understand. At first, Pastor Chadwick thought it would be an impossible task, given the complexity of the book. ”I’ve had 45 years’ experience in studying the book of Revelation,” says Pastor Chadwick. “It’s one of my favourite books.” He considered the fact that Revelation draws heavily on other books of the Bible such as Isaiah and Ezekiel and wondered how he could include all the Old Testament symbolism and major stories that were neces- sary for context in the limited amount of characters a text message allowed him. However, the Holy Spirit prompted him to reconsider. Almost 60 people currently receive Pastor Chadwick’s texts and half of them are not Adventists. A few learned about the texts from the Dungog church website and others by email. ”I have a data plan with my phone company that can send 60 texts a day,” says Pastor Chadwick. “This means that my Revelation seminar is virtually free. I could never have envisaged running a Revelation seminar with 25 non-church members, let alone doing it for free! It is also pulling in people who would never attend a public evangelism seminar.” Pastor Chadwick would like to share his resources with anyone who would like to start a similar ministry. ”All they have to do is ‘like’ our Facebook page and message me from there,” he says. Visit
vania chew producer, mums at the table.
16 Adventist record | May 4, 2019 Record Rewind The life of a company man
rancis (Frank) Cecil Craig was By August 1952, Frank was an born on March 25, 1920, the assistant manager for SHF in Sydney Fsecond son of Cecil Albert and before becoming the New Zealand Lily Thompson Craig. manager in February 1959, a position After graduating from the two-year he held until he transferred back to business course at Avondale College Sydney in October 1966, this time as in 1937, Frank began working for the the factory manager there. At the end Sanitarium Health Food Company of 1970 Frank moved to the SHF head (SHF) in 1938, making Weet-Bix and office as the assistant secretary. A Granose biscuits the old-fashioned year later, Frank became the secretary way in the factory at Warburton (Vic). (manager) for SHF, remaining in that Frank married Freida Rabe on role until poor health prompted his August 5, 1941 and in the years to early retirement in June 1982. come they had three children, Jean- There were many notable men ette, Alan and Ron. who made the SHF what it is today. so a more robust and productive Just four months into their married Following on from the legendary manufacturing environment could be life together, Frank was called up into George Fisher, who consolidated the developed to meet increasing retail the Australian army. He served as company into a successful business, demand. With Frank’s continued input, a non-combatant on the front line, were individuals like George Chapman, the Sanitarium head office and the working as an operating theatre assis- Carl Ulrich, Andrew Dawson, Bertram South Pacific Division combined in tant with the 7th Field Ambulance. Johanson, Wilfred Kilroy and Frank 1975 to select Datapoint to supply and Three of his four years of service were Craig, who was then followed by install a major computer network. This in high conflict zones, including Milne Cameron Myers. Together, these men bold move successfully streamlined Bay, Bougainville, Lae, Nassau Bay and took the company through many both the SHF and the Church’s oper- Salamaua in Papua New Guinea. difficult and challenging times. They ational needs, moving both organi- Sometimes just 600 metres from navigated their way through the Great sations into the age of silicon chips, enemy lines, living in swamps and Depression of the 1930s, successfully gigabytes and online communication. trenches, Frank was known as a man expanding the business while their Frank was widely respected for of prayer. When the sound of air raid competitors were failing and going to his leadership, encouragement and sirens signalled the need to get into the wall. They led through the difficult mentoring. He saw the SHF as “a work their slit trenches, Frank’s war-weary years of World War II when resources of God’s devising” and a very real friends were often heard to say, “Let’s were scarce—fuel, vehicles and new gift to the Church. He showed great get in with Franky . . . he prays.” Not machinery were almost impossible to courage and fortitude when it was at all unusual for the time, Frank did obtain. Because of the chronic fuel needed in difficult times. He never not get to meet his infant daughter, shortages, making transportation carried a grudge and believed in his Jeanette, until she was 18 months old. difficult, factories were established people. In all, Frank gave 44 years At the end of the war, economic in every state. Post-war growth saw of denominational service, which, by conditions in Australia were difficult as a new generation of leaders working denominational policy, included credit the country made the transition back to maintain and equip an updated for his four years in the army. to a peacetime economy. Wartime network of larger but, in time, fewer Frank’s life was totally immersed government contracts were cancelled factories to meet new demands in “the Company” and he reluctantly and many, particularly women, lost and market forces. When the Plant took early retirement after a long and their jobs while at the same time Development Division of the company difficult illness associated with the thousands of servicemen were being wanted to introduce computers to the prolonged use of malarial medications discharged and seeking civilian company’s production lines, many in during his war-time service in Papua employment. Once demobilised from SHF leadership positions were initially New Guinea. Frank died of renal failure active military service Frank asked if reluctant to consider this new and on August 15, 1983. he could return to his career with SHF expensive electronic automation. and as a result was employed as an However, the new equipment soon Lester Devine director emERitus of the accountant in the Brisbane office, for proved its worth and permission was Ellen G White/Adventist Research Centre at which he was very grateful. given to advance and innovate further, Avondale College of Higher Education.
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 17 have your say
SPECIAL GIFT many of Ellen White’s books SEEDS BEAR FRUIT movement? Re: “Faith-nurturing and they have pointed me The editorial “Seeds for Is our leadership satisfied guide” (Feature, April 6). to Jesus, encouraged me today” (March 16), directs to only preserve the seed, Firstly I want to say that I to study the Bible more our attention to nature, also to preserve the kernel? Why appreciate John Skrzpaszek deeply, confirmed my faith the Bible through which God are we not looking at the calling our attention to the in all of our distinctive Bible reveals truth to His Church. potential fruits contained in special gift we have in our doctrines and saved me As it is in nature, with all that kernel of truth? Church in the writings of from many deceptive errors living organisms, so it is We have the kernel of Ellen G White and reminding both within and outside of with our Church, the living truth but not yet its fruits. us of the need to rightly our Church. I have learned body of Jesus our Saviour. When there is love of understand and use them as practical guidelines for We are given doctrinal truth it will sprout, bud, sadly they are often misused healthful living and been truth in the form of seed. blossom and fruit. May we and misquoted! challenged to share my faith The Holy Spirit gives growth see this in our congrega- I was blessed to be born and care for those in need. to this seed, then fruits are tions. into an Adventist family and For anyone who may have produced. This process Henry Firus, Vic thankfully I have had a very had a negative experience works if congregations love positive experience with or has never read any of the truth. the writings of Ellen White Ellen White’s books I hope Seventh-day Advent- Note: Views in “Have your say” do not necessarily rep- throughout my life and still you can read and discover ists are given seeds of resent those of the editors or treasure them to this day. for yourself the true blessing indispensable truth for the the denomination. Comments should be less than 250 words, The book Steps to Christ to be found in them. God whole Christian Church to and writers must include their was one of the first ones has sent precious light be announced before the name, address and phone I read right through as a through His messenger to second advent of Jesus. number. All comments are ed- ited to meet space and literary teenager, and it helped me help prepare a people for But where then is the requirements, but the author’s to develop and grow my the soon return of Jesus growth of this seed, these original meaning will not be changed. Not all comments own relationship with Jesus. Christ. kernels of truth given to received are published. Over the years I have read Linda Thomas, NSW the Seventh-day Adventist
18 Adventist record | May 4, 2019 health
Helping your kids switch Healthy screen on without tuning out habits to try
Devices like smartphones and tablets have become powerful tools to communicate, entertain and seek information—connecting us as a global community in a way past generations could not have dreamed. However, kids today often spend significant amounts of time watching or interacting with REMOVE SCREEN-SILOS Mum and Dad are screens, which can directly impact sleep quality watching TV and the kids as well as time for physical activity, with negative are glued to their mobiles. Sound familiar? Screen consequences across all the key foundations of time is often “solo”, which children’s health and wellbeing. can negatively impact your child’s social and Current guidelines state that children should communication skills. spend no more than two hours per day being Remove the silos and make screen time “family entertained by screens. Yet, the majority of time”, like a regular movie primary school aged children (60%) and high night. school children (85%) exceed these recommen- dations, spending more than four-and-a-half hours every weekday on screens, and six or more hours on the weekends for almost half of kids (49%). According to a new University of Notre Dame and Sanitarium report that identifies and exam- ines the most critical threats to lifetime health SCREEN THE SCREENs outcomes for Australian children, screen time Screen time should be often also comes at the expense of social inter- constructive and positive for your kids. Make sure action with parents and carers, and can lead to their time spent online language delays, reduced attention spans, lower is age-appropriate. Age ratings are a good start, levels of school-readiness and poorer deci- and there are helpful sion-making. websites that provide reviews from other Long periods of time spent sitting in front of a parents to guide your screen can also have an impact on a child’s phys- decision on whether something is right for ical health, leading to poor posture, short-sight- your children. edness (myopia) and hearing problems due to over-use of headphones. But whether we like it or not, screens are here Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies to stay. The challenge for parents and carers is to These soft biscuits with a special chocolate ensure that kids aren’t spending too much time centre are easy and fun to make! on them and that the time spent on screens is as positive and beneficial as possible. Find this recipe and hundreds Why not try these tips to help your kids ONLINE FOR OFFLINE more at: develop healthy screen habits from an early age? Help kids balance the Learn more about children’s health and digital and real world by Australia: sanitarium.com.au/recipes matching their online New Zealand: sanitarium.co.nz/recipes wellbeing by viewing the Little People Big Lives games with offline Report at
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 19
noticeboard
valiant, but unsuccessful struggle retirement. She was a woman Gary Kent to Israel/Jordan and to recover. Judy’s confident faith of integrity, honesty, hard work Egypt. Contact: Anita or Peter on Weddings ensures she awaits the joy of and compassion. She loved her 0405 260155. Email
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 21 noticeboard
POSITIONS VACANT
DIRECTOR OF ADVENTIST EDUCATION, SOUTH PACIFIC DIVISION applicant will support the operations manager in managing the support WAHROONGA, NSW services and independent living units of three sites, ensure that we meet The South Pacific Division (SPD) of the Seventh-day Adventist our Retirement Village Act legislative requirements, manage multiple Church is seeking an experienced educator to provide vision for and service delivery teams and must also work collaboratively with the site leadership of the educational system of the Seventh-day Adventist care managers. This position requires relevant tertiary qualifications, Church in the South Pacific, based in Wahroonga. For full selection excellent communication skills, previous management experience and a criteria, please visit the SPD human resources website at
FOR MORE AVAILABLE POSITIONS VISIT: ADVENTISTEMPLOYMENT.ORG.AU /SDAJOBS
Note: Neither the editor, Adventist Media, nor the Seventh-day Adventist Church is responsible for the quality of goods or services advertised. Publication does not indicate endorsement of a product or service. Classified advertisements in Adventist Record are available to Seventh-day Adventist members, churches and institutions only. All advertisements, appreciation, anniversary, wedding and obituary notices may be submitted via
22 Adventist record | May 4, 2019 noticeboard
You’re invited to our NEXT ISSUE: ADVENTIST WORLD, MAY 11
SUPPORTING MINISTRY
CEDARVALE Traineeships in health ministry Vacancies exist for a one-year training program alongside our team of dedicated health professionals. This is a great opportunity to be mentored and actively involved in health ministry. The course has pathways to achieve Cert IV in Massage as well as Cert IV PCHEP—our Adventist Health Education Course. Most students can receive Centrelink for support (if they qualify). Positions for two female students—each intake available to commence July 2019 and January 2020. Visit
General manager, office administrator and maintenance manager. Cedarvale Health Retreat is seeking suitable persons for the roles of general manager; office administrator; and maintenance manager. These positions are to commence in the latter part of 2019. It is May 25th, 2019 expected that the successful applicants would have a passion for health evangelism and would proactively support Cedarvale’s status Register today at: as a supportive ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. For mvac.adventist.edu.au/50-year-anniversary-registration details call (02) 4465 1362 or email
yrs
23rd & 24th August 2019 www.facebook.com/MbahSDAChurch www.eventbrite.com.au/e/56027242992
Remisce, Reflect, Recnect
May 4, 2019 | Adventist record 23 Be part of thE change Work with communities in poverty around the world.
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