theadvocate.tv JULY 2017

IN CONVERSATION “The call for unity in the West against the “Foot washing is an expression of love – it’s a wonder incessant and fatally intrusive scourge of terrorism is a couple of we don’t wash each other’s feet more than once a year.” decades too late.” STEPHEN MCALPINE PAGE 12>> MEGHAN MURPHY-GILL PAGE 13>>

5 Thriving churches WA Global Interaction team member Pam Gallagher’s first visit to Assam >>

8 Worshipping daily Worship isn’t about music – 4 ways to worship God in daily life >> Photo: Rob Douglas Lorraine Holdsworth and her donkey visited Messy Church at Maida Vale Baptist Church to help the group appreciate afresh the story of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

11 Ramadan Challenges for Christians living in Muslim parts of the Getting messy at church world during Ramadan >>

to Jesus and experience whole family can participate in, a ongoing discipleship. According short time of worship including At a time when church attendance appears to be to the founder of Messy Church, a Bible story and active singing, falling, there are many fresh expressions of church Lucy Moore of the Anglican then eating a meal together. These that are bucking the trend. Church’s Bible Reading three elements are tied together by Fellowship, the distinction a theme. Building between host and guest dissolves According to Rob, traditional, With more than 500 known Australia where congregations and an all age, Christ-centred institutional church often found healthy congregations in the United exist in denominations as diverse community emerges. it difficult to keep up with a fast- Kingdom, Messy Church is as Anglican, Uniting Church and Messy Church at Maida Vale changing society, leading to a churches. now one of the fastest growing The Salvation Army. Baptist Church is held on the decline in church attendance. fresh expressions of church “About 40 percent of those fourth Saturday of each month He said Messy Church is not a in that country, where it has who attend Messy Church from 4.30pm until 6.30pm, and has means to get people to church BAPTIST CHURCHES been described as a national at Maida Vale Baptist would been coordinated by the church’s on Sunday, but is a unique WESTERN AUSTRALIA phenomenon, according to have little or no other church Children’s and Family Worker, congregation. Maida Vale Baptist Church connections,” Rob said. Robyn Douglas since 2012. A workshop about Messy Pastor Rob Douglas. “It is an exciting and vibrant “Life is messy for most Church is being held at Maida “There are more than 3,200 part of the life of our church.” families, and Messy Church Vale Baptist Church on Saturday congregations of Messy Church in The first Messy Church was provides a way of connecting with 16 September. Messy Church WA 20 countries around the world and established in the UK in 2004 to the Church without the formality Coordinator Greg Ross will be the movement is also growing in create church for families who that goes with a Sunday morning in attendance. Australia,” he said. can’t or don’t go to church on service,” Robyn said. Maida Vale Baptist Church is a Sunday. It was to be a place Messy Church normally For more information, email the only Baptist church in Western where they could be introduced consists of an activity that the [email protected] 2 my view

JULY 2017 Venom in the virtual world

With reports of online abuse from around the world old as snakes. When Christ, in it’s not just about what we say. on the rise, it feels like a new pandemic is at large. a moment of choicely worded Sometimes the best antidote to a anger, accuses his abusers, saying toxic exchange is to say nothing. ‘you brood of vipers, how can you We just don’t always do it. The internet’s speed and reach, choice or the uncertain tone. who are evil say anything good?’ Scripture may have been abetted by its anonymity, have It’s in the group chat I should He goes on to state a helpful truth, written long before broadband seen abuse disseminated faster never have entered whilst in namely that what the mouth says but it offers surprisingly handy and wider than ever before. such a foul mood. Or the terse (or fingers type) is determined tips on how to operate in the According to Maria Miller, the response I gave to a polite by what’s going on inside that virtual world. I paraphrase, but former culture secretary, Britain request. Back when the internet chamber of conscience – our the next time your fingers hover needs better internet laws seemed innocent, a wise friend hearts. And it’s to the heart that over the send button, take a to stop online abuse, stating told me never compose an online the antidote needs to be applied. pause and ask yourself: are these ‘people are unleashing their message you wouldn’t want Aside from creating new laws, words full of grace, seasoned Rhidian Brook inner venom in a way that is not the world to see. Too late. The we can do something else about with enough salt, will they say Author of The Aftermath, healthy for society.’ message has been sent! In this it. We all have what you might call what is helpful, and build up and Rhidian Brook is an You don’t have to view a speedy world such advice is easy an inner editor. We probably just benefit the reader? Perhaps then award winning novelist, chat forum, or surf the news to to ignore. need to engage it more rigorously the words of our mouths and the screenwriter and broadcaster. encounter this poison. It can But if the platform is new, when composing messages and meditations of our hearts will be surface in a careless email word the problem – the venom – is as reading those of others. Of course, acceptable in their sight.

Sixty, not out …

I turn 60 in July. I know you’d never have guessed out of a chair is also apparently this article and sniffing, “you’re it, and find it hard to believe as well. But there it is, forbidden. Taking up gardening a paltry 60. Tend a few sheep in the big six zero looming up ahead. as a hobby is said to be a sure the desert for another 20 years sign of an imminent demise, so like I did, and you just might be I’m at absolutely zero risk there. ready to do something.” So, when does old age begin? clear, I think the implication Given that this is an article And who knows … Moses According to an often cited was that you actually had to about me, I should mention that might be right. For when you study, the British consider do something whilst at the my mother-in-law turns 100 journey with God, anything can themselves old at 59, the French gym, and that the travel would the same month I turn 60. Of be around the corner. at 63 and the Greeks (bless be further than to the local course I don’t feel old. A chat them) at 68. I haven’t spotted supermarket. on the phone to her (she lives an official Australian figure, I discovered helpful tips in South Africa) and I feel like but my research did lead me to to avoid aging as rapidly as a 20 year old (“and how are you Dr Brian Harris a paper suggesting that old age the British. Dressing for style, my boy?”). And what kind of a Dr Brian Harris is the Principal really only begins at 80, while the rather than comfort, was one of biblical scholar would I be if I of Vose Seminary and Pastor at footnote commented that this is the more unpleasant ones, as didn’t remind you that Moses Large for the Carey Group. only true if you rule napping and was the reminder not to wear was invited to lead the Hebrews knitting out, and work the gym slippers or to say “back in my out of Egypt when he was 80. and travel in. Though it wasn’t day”. Sighing whilst getting You can imagine him reading

A heart of patience

I remember encountering Facebook for the first soaring out of control, or felt like God was whispering time. All those names of people I thought I would whispered Kingdom-focused possibilities all around me. never see again after high school and youth group encouragement when the “What could he discover if darkness seemed deafening. you showed him patience?” were now connected back into my world digitally. These people invested their and “What could she learn if energy in us to develop a group we gave her a go?” or, “Do you A few of us have less hair than I around the world. They were all of leaders who would share want to join the Spirit at work remember, most of us are parents different: missionaries in Kenya, Christ with others. in that person’s life?” now and we are all scattered pastors in USA, small group As I sat back from my Patience, it was shown to across the globe. As I scrolled leaders in England and faithful computer and looked at me in increasing measure, through the list of names, I was servants in Finland. the various job titles on my how could I not show it to encouraged by one common All of us had a similar screen, ‘missionary in Kenya … others? I pray that as you and I trait in a handful of my old story. A lot of people, a long pastor … worship leader’. I was look around us, may God give Aashish Parmar friends. Almost 20 of us from our time ago, were patient with us challenged. Who am I showing us the gift of patience to sit Aashish Parmar is the Senior youth group days had gone on so less people today needed patience to? How can I help with those yet to be refined, Pastor at Ellenbrook Baptist to serve in a full-time ministry to be. They let us fail and develop the young leaders to especially speak into the Church. role somewhere. Many more had stumble, and then lifted us around me? potential of those younger. gone on to significant service back up. They gently guided As I stepped into my in various Christian churches us back when our egos went church on Sunday morning, I letters to the editor send us your letters

The Advocate welcomes your letters to the editor on topics of concern to you and the community. Send your letters of no more than 100 words to [email protected] by the 10th of each month. news 3

JULY 2017 What is God saying to us?

Baptist Churches Western Australia Director of Ministries In 2016, Reverend Allan Demond spoke on the subject Mark Wilson said Allan’s teaching of ‘How do we hear from God?’ at the All Together is biblical, backed up with Baptist Pastoral Retreat. experience from his own life. “Allan grew up in a very conservative Baptist church and Inglewood Community Church proclaim so confidently that God has experienced the freedom of Senior Pastor Mark Edwards had spoken.” being released in the person and commented that it was a time that “The prophet Elijah heard power of the Holy Spirit,” Mark said. was challenging and spiritually from God through a whisper. God “Allan is a brilliant teacher, enriching for those who attended. does speak, and how we hear and communicator and senior pastor.” So much so that Allan has been understand His message is the “I believe the Whisper invited back to Perth in 2017 to challenge,” he said. Conference, where Allan is speak to a wider church audience Inglewood Community the keynote speaker, will be of at the Whisper Conference being Church, a Baptist church, is incredible benefit for any pastor, held at Inglewood Community hosting the half day conference church leader or church attender Church on 29 July. where Allan will tackle the issue who wants to hear the whisper of “Many of us wanted people of hearing the voice of God and God through His written Word and in our church to have the moving in the Spirit. It is expected promptings from the Holy Spirit.” opportunity to hear such material, this will be a challenging and to have Allan expand on conference assisting Christians in For more information, visit the message he brought to the their faith journey. inglewoodchurch.org.au/ Pastoral Retreat,” Mark said. This topic is something Allan whisper-conference “One of the most challenging has studied and presented talks parts of our Christian faith is on all over Australia at various knowing what it is that God is conferences and retreats. Allan saying to us.” has led NewHope Baptist Church

“As we ponder the stories in in Melbourne for over 20 years Photo: NewHope Baptist Church the Scriptures we wonder how the and brings a wealth of practical Pastor Allan Demond will be helping people to better understand what prophets of old could stand and and pastoral experience. God is saying to them at the upcoming Perth Whisper Conference.

Backpacks help

Photo: YouthCAREPhoto: Join our team! YouthCARE Chaplain Kim Scaddan is happy to provide filled backpacks for school students. At Baptistcare, we place a great emphasis on people – both the people we serve and the people we employ.

Josh del Pino “Some families are reluctant Baptistcare employees enjoy more Great staff benefits including: to even send their children to than just a job. If you’re looking school due to not being able to • Training to improve skills When it comes to buying buy basic supplies needed to feel for a rewarding career where you • Salary packaging school equipment, ‘ready’ for school.” can help enrich the lives of others • Employee Assistance Program The idea that seemed to make in the community, why not join some students need a • Discounts on banking and most sense to the trio was to see our dedicated team? Aged care, helping hand. if a few backpacks filled with the insurance products. school booklist could be provided community services and office- Noticing a need in their local for each year level. based positions available. community, local couple Kim provided Christine with David and Christine Thomas the booklists and she took the For more information please contact and YouthCARE Chaplain proposal to her leadership group. our People and Culture team on 9282 8610 Kim Scaddan decided to help They then filled them with the or [email protected] provide stationery for students booklist items for each year level. at Grovelands Primary School, More than ten backpacks have Westfield. been distributed this year already. “We regularly receive children “It means children can focus into our school that come without on learning, instead of worrying careers.baptistcare.com.au anything at all,” Kim said. about supplies,” Kim said. 4 news

JULY 2017 Cross-cultural churches unite

The Romanian Baptist Church in Bayswater hosted and was part of a special event in the life of the believers of Eternity Christian Church in Bedford on Sunday 7 May.

Christians of different ethnicities, Eternity Christian Church Romanian and Vietnamese, has been in existence for just over worshipped together and a year. witnessed the baptism of four “This inaugural baptism people that decided to place their service was a significant lives in the hands of Jesus Christ. celebration that was worth sharing Romanian Baptist Church with another congregation,” Dinh Pastor Ioan Busan expressed his said. joy at the opportunity to have The baptism in water was fellowship with his brothers and followed by a prayer for those who sisters from a different ethnic joined Eternity Christian Church background. through this act. The fellowship “Fellowship and worship continued after the service together is an illustration of the through a lunch prepared by

truth that the Church of Christ members of the two churches. Photo: Michael Busan is one, beyond any cultural When asked how the joint Eternity Baptist Church believers accepting prayer from Pastor Ioan Busan before their baptism. differences; the ethnic dimension worship service affected their is not so important in worship, congregations, Ioan responded but the cleanliness of the heart,” that everyone enjoyed it. Ioan said. “We should do this more often. The music teams from both We should hold a worship service churches had previously met for with all other cross-cultural Forging strong partnership the rehearsal of the songs that churches,” he said. were sung at the joint service. The Baptist Churches Western rehearsals brought opportunities Australia Cross-Cultural Consultant Linda Lee “In this current period of for learning from one another Reverend Victor Owuor was also unprecedented change in the and for developing a friendship present at the baptism. aged care and disability services among the musicians. “The diversity represented in With a shared vision to see lives and hearts sectors, it’s particularly important our cross-cultural churches is a transformed, Baptistcare CEO Russell Bricknell for us to work closely with the testimony of how God is building and Baptist Churches Western Australia Director Baptist community to ensure we ... most of our His Kingdom to include all kinds of can continue to effectively provide people living in Western Australia,” of Ministries Mark Wilson, recently met to discuss compassionate care and support to cross-cultural Victor said. opportunities to strengthen the partnership between our residents, customers and the “In the midst of this diversity, the two like-minded organisations. wider community,” he said. churches have most of our cross-cultural churches Baptist Churches Western embraced the have embraced the attitude of Australia and Baptistcare hope to openness and acceptance by doing Baptist Churches Western Australia collaborative initiatives. He harness their energies and serve attitude of activities together.” works to support organisations recognises the need to get communities together through staff “One of the aims of Baptist like Baptistcare, one of WA’s largest to know and understand the recruitment drives, volunteering openness and Churches Western Australia providers of residential care, at Baptist churches in WA and their opportunities and other useful acceptance ... (BCWA) is to encourage home services, retirement living communities better. initiatives such as information churches to work together to and disability services, recognising “I believe there is great sessions to demystify government do what would be difficult as that more can be achieved working potential for our organisations funding options for seniors (Home Eternity Christian Church individual congregations.” together to ensure the best to work more closely together for Care Packages) and people living Pastor Dinh Nguyen preached “Cross-cultural churches in quality of life for people who are greater impact, especially given with disability (National Disability about the importance of BCWA have embraced this vision vulnerable in our communities. our shared values and vision for Insurance Scheme). baptism for the believer and and have been working together as Russell joined Baptistcare as the community,” Russell said. about the love of God that calls part of this important part of our CEO earlier this year, presenting “Our Christian ethos is at the For more information, visit people to salvation. Christian witness.” a new opportunity to explore heart of everything we do.” www.baptistcare.com.au digital church

06/06/17 will ever be perfectly tailored to close the gap between the person 14/06/17 remain. I pray that we, as a group Ron Edmondson my preferences. you are and the person you want Rick Warren of churches, would love the gospel ronedmondson.com to be. pastorrick.com/devotional more than we love anything else. Walking by faith – leading into 07/07/17 The Bible contains more promises the unknown – always teaches Heather Lovell 13/06/17 about giving and generosity than 16/06/17 me more than I could learn in a writesomething.org.au David Roper any other subject. Why? You’re Steven Furtick ‘safe place’. ‘I am sorry’ would be one of odb.org never more like God than when twitter.com/stevenfurtick the most important phrases The One who made all things you give. God gives. It’s what He The key to persevering through 06/06/17 in our lives. It keeps the focus beautiful makes the clouds float does. He’s generous. seasons of pruning is remaining Brett McCracken on our actions and not on the through the air. He does so to call confident in God’s purpose. 9marks.org other person’s response. I can’t us to wonder and adoration. 15/06/17 When churchgoing becomes begin to imagine if God had put JD Greear 16/06/17 mostly about finding the conditions on my repentance 14/06/17 jdgreear.com John Piper church that best supports of wrong. Craig Groeschel We are, all of us, always at risk of desiringgod.org my own subjective ‘spiritual twitter.com/craiggroeschel adding something to the gospel. The Lord is pleased not by path’, it will eventually become 07/06/17 God often allows you to And soon enough, the-gospel- those who treat Him as a an impossible task, more Max Lucado experience more than you can and turns into the-gospel-of … needy watering trough, but frustrating and draining than it’s twitter.com/MaxLucado handle to teach you to trust and until eventually the gospel fades as an inexhaustible, all- worth. Why? Because no church You can. With God’s help you can depend on Him. away and only the lesser things satisfying spring. news 5

JULY 2017 Leaders stand together

A piece of artwork was pivotal in providing the keynote message to over 100 women leaders at Fresh Leadership Winter retreat in June.

Women in leadership roles “There have been extremely across churches, denominations, intense ministry and personal businesses and social sectors challenges. Yet, God is calling gathered for a full weekend at us to hear His voice and to Orchard Glory Farm Resort, just answer with a resounding ‘yes’ to north of Perth. whatever He asks of us,” she said. Perth artist Corina Jasmin met The Fresh Conference team with Fresh Conference Director planned and prepared for this Karen Wilson prior to the event event and were all part of leading and was able to create a piece the weekend. of artwork to help convey the “I felt God had laid it on my message that would be shared heart to go deeper and to gather

with the women there. others who would stand together Photo: Corina Jasmin “As I told the story and the to see God move across the state Perth artist Corina Jasmin created an artwork to reveal a prophetic message at a leadership conference recently. painting was revealed, many were of WA,” Karen said. deeply touched and could ‘see’ “The rain is coming, and we The women travelled from This year the Fresh Conference “God is whispering His plans. what was being spoken about,” are going to see women gather as far as Esperance, Geraldton, team have taken a step of faith and Leaders are coming together and Karen said. and stand strong in bringing Kalgoorlie, many locations in the have booked HBF Stadium as the walls are going down. We will see Karen spoke on having faith change to their world.” South West, as well as from all over venue for the Fresh Conference to an impact on our city,” Karen said. like Elijah. Seeing, knowing, “They will stand side by side the metropolitan area. be held in August. The hope to is to hearing – and then leading others and be ready for whatever God has “Across the weekend there fill the venue to capacity. For more information, visit to do the same. them to do. The strength of this was healing, renewed hope, International speakers will www.freshconference.net “The past season has stance, will catch the attention impassioned vision and a sense of travel to Perth and women from been extremely difficult for of thousands to achieve God’s unity amongst all who gathered,” more than 250 churches are Artwork reproduced many leaders.” purposes and for His glory.” Karen added. expected to gather together. with permission.

Thriving churches

Various Global Interaction cross-cultural workers lived Western Australia in Assam for 23 years before Global Interaction team government restrictions closed member and former off the area to Christian workers. Global Interaction believes cross-cultural worker that the responsibility of church Pam Gallagher recently leadership should be with the visited Assam in north- local people and that the cross- eastern India. cultural workers responsibility is in training and equipping these leaders to reach their own people. It was Pam’s first visit to Assam “Its view has helped set and she met members of the churches up for the years vibrant Boro, Garo and Rabha ahead where there would be churches. limited outside support and “It was an incredible joy and no residential cross-cultural privilege to witness the thriving workers,” Pam said. churches,” Pam said. Global Interaction’s “I vividly remember hearing partnership with Assam stories from my childhood continues through scholarships about Assam and of being told for church leaders, visits of the many people who had for teaching and pastoral

never heard about Jesus in a encouragement, and ministry Photo: Keith Gallagher meaningful way.” program subsidies. Global Interaction members being welcomed with a traditional dance at a local church in Assam. “I also remember giving to the ministry and praying that there would be a strong movement of God among these people.” During her trip, Pam heard A first for church admin about churches supporting evangelists to share the Event organiser, BCWA financial services, finance and good news with their own Business Manager Greg Holland governance topics.” communities and of people Over 80 pastors, administrators, secretaries said the seminar achieved what Representatives from Baptist coming to faith. and treasurers attended the inaugural Church they hoped for by providing key Insurance Services (BIS), BIS Risk “These communities Administration Seminar run by Baptist Churches people in Baptist churches with Management, Baptist Financial are generous, with families valuable information. Services and BCWA shared their encouraged to set a serving of Western Australia in early May. “We were overwhelmed with knowledge. rice aside at each meal to be interest for the event. It was The organisers are planning brought to the church and sold More than 35 churches were Busselton and Kalgoorlie to the outstanding to have so many to make the seminar an annual as a means of supporting the represented, with attendees seminar held in the new John attendees hear presenters cover event as well as hold the seminar evangelists,” she said. coming from as far as Katanning, Olley Centre at Vose Seminary. insurance, risk management, in regional churches. 6 news

JULY 2017 Three Musketeers at Austin Cove Photo: Kelly Doye Austin Cove Baptist College students rehearsing for the College’s major drama production for 2017.

Rebecca Galway

Austin Cove Baptist College will hold its sixth major Kids ministry and beyond drama production, The Three Musketeers, at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre in July.

Inspired by the artistic mind of Messages of repentance, Stephen Capener, Head of the freedom and hope in Christ are Arts Department, this production all topics that are portrayed in aims to invoke the audience into every production. contemplation, entice them with “The great thing about suspense and action and leave it is that people are more them amazed through scene inclined to be touched by the changes and unique concepts. message because they are in a “Each year we raise the position to receive – they are bar in terms of professional not only coming to be merely standards and acting abilities to entertained, they are coming create a high-quality production because they expect to have an that you would expect to be experiential encounter with the performed at any high-class gospel which is portrayed on theatre,” Stephen said. stage,” Orlando said. It is the vision of Secondary “This year, the fundamental “The Conference will deliver Principal, Orlando dos Santos, message of the performance is powerful concepts and practical to showcase the College as one to not limit yourself, to know Baptist Churches Western Australia’s children’s tools to children’s workers, leaders of the finest performing art that you can create anything you ministries will break new ground in October and pastors across denominations colleges in the State, granting set your mind to and that you by hosting the Beyond KidsMin Conference in in WA,” Ed said. students an opportunity to grow are not imprisoned by your own “I believe it will bring both in confidence and create a circumstances; that God has got partnership with Warnbro Community Church. significant impact to our sense of inclusivity. a future and a plan for you which Baptist family of churches and I “Every year at this time, we is full of good things and He will The theme ‘Reimagining Ministry their own understanding as they encourage children’s ministers see the College atmosphere lead you on the right track if you to Children’ will be explored by look to God; and this will allow to consider making this their transformed and students really trust in Him.” keynote speaker Frank Bealer, ministers to broaden their vision first choice training event for come out of their shell ... there “This is a great opportunity CEO of Phase Family Centers and for children’s ministries in WA,” the year.” is a sense of comradery as they to bring your friends to a Executive Director of Leadership Ed explained. Supported by Vose Seminary, work together ... and then for powerful production which Development at Orange/The Several experienced local Church of Christ’s Kids Vision them to be up on the big stage reflects hope, forgiveness and reThink Group. He was previously children’s pastors and leaders and 98five Sonshine FM, the and see the response from the love,” Orlando concluded. the Family Pastor at Elevation will present elective workshops conference will be held from audience, it’s really satisfying for The Three Musketeers will Church in the United States. in the areas of leading teams, 10am Friday 13 October to 3.30pm them,” Orlando said. be presented at Mandurah Next Generations Pastor kids’ worship, check-in Saturday 14 October. It will Exposure is not the only Performing Arts Centre with four Ed Devine said the aim is for systems, going beyond Sunday include worship times, plenty of reason that year after year these shows from Thursday 27 July to children’s ministries to have an mornings with parents, networking opportunities, meals productions are undertaken. It Saturday 29 July. impact beyond a Sunday morning. effectively running games, and refreshments. is the message that is entwined “Attendees will be encouraged small-church kids’ ministry, into the screenplays that ignites For more information, visit to go beyond their understanding early childhood and inclusive For more information and the passion and commitment. www.mpac.com.au of children’s ministry, beyond special needs ministry. tickets, www.kidsmin.org.au news 7

JULY 2017 A fresh perspective

Samara Linehan young ages … not only leading their young peers, but, often, the adults too.” Fresh is just around the corner. This August, the To hear Linly speak while dynamic women’s conference will be hosting a she’s in Australia, and find out special guest visitor from Food for the Hungry, more about this inspiring work, women can catch her at Fresh Cambodia – Linly Gula. Conference on Saturday 19 August. Fresh founder Karen Wilson first “The women of Western Linly will also be speaking met Linly earlier this year on a Australia need to hear Linly’s at Woodvale Baptist Church on Women in Leadership trip with story. They will be deeply touched Sunday 20 August, where all Baptist World Aid Australia. Linly by the way she chooses to live her are welcome. is the Country Director for Food life,” Karen said. Anyone who can’t make for the Hungry, Cambodia, one “Fresh is about empowering either of these events can still do of Baptist World Aid’s Christian women to make a difference something to make a difference partners in the field. in their local and global for children in local and global “I was impressed by her communities, and Linly is a communities by running a Be warmth and passion,” woman who is doing just that.” Love Sponsorship Sunday event Karen recalled. In partnership with Baptist at their church. “But I did not realise what a World Aid, Fresh is one of several “A small sacrifice for us, brings privilege it would be to have the Australian Baptist women a lifetime opportunity for another. next two days with her.” conferences that raises funds Why wouldn’t we participate in “She is humble, yet strong; each year, to bless children living something like that?” Karen said. kind yet firm … It was an honour to in poverty. watch her and learn from her.” “When you invest in children, For more information about Linly shared her story with the whole community benefits,” Be Love Sponsorship Sunday, Karen as they rode together on Karen explained. visit baptistworldaid.org.au/ a bouncing bus, somewhere in “I have seen this work with be-love-sunday Cambodia. Karen was so inspired Baptist World Aid and it’s amazing

by what she heard, that she to see.” For more information about Photo: Baptist World Aid Australia wanted the women at Fresh to “Children are encouraged Fresh Conference, visit Country Director for Food for the Hungry, Cambodia, Linly Gula will be experience meeting Linly as well. to step into leadership roles at freshconference.net visiting Australia in August.

Carey’s new secondary school briefs

Baptisms where the young people at the Sara Claessens, siblings Dunsborough Leavers Zone are Michael and Savannah Inouye, looked after and treated with and Paul Stephens were respect and love. They offer baptised at Parkerville Baptist parents the security in knowing Church in May/June. their children are being cared for and have volunteers who Pastoral and Church have sacrificed their time to Changes care for the young people they Perth Chin Christian meet. Community became a For more information, visit recognised Church Plant with greenteamwa.org.au Baptist Churches Western Australia in June. The church is currently comprised of people who speak the Falam Chin and Zanniat Chin dialects from Chin State in Myanmar. They were settled in Australia

Photo: Carey Baptist College through the government Carey Baptist College are busy with preparations to open a secondary school at their Forrestdale Campus in 2019. and United Nations refugee resettlement program. Ballajura Baptist Church has Cassie Kirtisingham already in consultation with appointed Pastor Craig Rodger Carey curriculum experts around as their new pastor. ATAR subjects and structure,” Girrawheen Baptist Church Carey Baptist College is set to launch a secondary Nigel said. inducted Pastor Douglas school at their Forrestdale Campus in 2019. The secondary school Inawashiro and Pastor Terry Commencing with Year 7, the school will offer a will grow each year with the Chester as Associate Pastors on founding 2019 cohort, providing 4 June with Baptist Churches range of ATAR and vocational subject options. these students with unique Western Australia Director of leadership opportunities. Ministries Pastor Mark Wilson Since opening in 2016, the Campus,” founding Principal All Carey Harrisdale Year 7 leading the induction. school has developed into a Nigel Wise said. students participate in a Secondary Pastor Gareth Price is vibrant community, with 110 “Carey Forrestdale has the Transitional Program in Term 1 and concluding as the Young Adults families enrolled. warmth of a close-knit school the Forrestdale students will also Pastor at Morley Baptist Church. “While the secondary school community, coupled with the enjoy the benefit of participating in will be new for the Forrestdale backing of Carey’s 20 years of this successful program. Leavers Campus, it will be developed experience in excellent education.” The Baptist Churches Western and supported by the strength of “We are thrilled to expand More information, visit Australia Leavers Green Team the successful Carey Harrisdale into secondary in 2019 and are www.carey.wa.edu.au helps to create an environment 8 feature

JULY 2017

I’ll never forget my Sunday school teacher telling us we’ll spend all eternity worshipping God. The glee on her face wasn’t replicated by the room of seven year old kids who just wanted to play ball. “You mean, like, singing?” I asked. “Yes!” she exclaimed with joy. “We’re going to praise God forever.” I nodded with compliance, but I couldn’t help but think that this sounded more like hell than heaven. Worship isn’t about music 4 ways to worship God in daily life

Preston Sprinkle Worship through work God created us to work. It was the first command He gave humankind: “Let them have dominion” Indeed, I do believe we were created for worship. But I over the earth [Genesis 1:26]. Having dominion over really hope that doesn’t just mean an ongoing worship the earth is the umbrella concept for all that we do, service. That may be fun for 20 minutes or so – an hour including our work. But work was never designed to be at best – but what are we to do with the other 10,080 a joyless burden. minutes in the week? If worship is what we’re created We worship God when we work in such a way that for, then we are certainly not just called to do it for a few showcases His character and glory. This means our minutes on Sunday morning. work should be filled with integrity and faithfulness. At its core, worship is accrediting worth to God. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not And there are actually many different ways we should for men” [Colossians 3:23]. worship God. The hardworking, submissive, joyful, and creative worker, who works with a knee bowed to his Creator, Worship through obedience attributes much worth to God. If God is Creator and we are created, then He knows what’s best for us. And if He knows what’s best, then it Worship through creating doesn’t credit any worth to God when we say, “Thanks God didn’t form us in His image so that we would for the advice, God, but I got this one. I actually figured become robots – mindless agents of production. In an out a better way.” age that worships achievement and productivity, we Obedience to God accredits worth to God. As with need to remember that God made us to be creative and singing, heartfelt obedience is the goal; the joyful not just productive (the two are not mutually exclusive, stuff that flows from within, delighting in doing God’s of course). God. God is creative; it’s fundamental to who will. God tells Israel: “Because you did not serve the He is. So, we also, as image bearers, are creative. It’s the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart ... way God wired us. When we create, we reflect God – therefore you shall serve your enemies” [Deuteronomy and therefore accredit much worth to Him. 28:47-48]. Israel was punished for not serving God Worshipping through creativity extends to all areas with joy. of life, and I’m convinced we are all creative by nature. But what about those times when you don’t feel Being creative is much more than just producing like obeying? We all have those moments. I know God artwork. It extends to any area of life where you take a is good, I know I should obey Him, and I know sin will piece of creation and make it better or more beautiful. only bring temporary pleasure but will bite me in the Working with wood, working with cars, working with end. So why do I do it? Why don’t I desire to obey God words – all of these are only possible because we more often? possess God’s image and are therefore creative. I don’t know if I have a good answer to this other Don’t take a break from worship to be creative. than our sinful nature sometimes smothers our desire Worship God by being creative. for God. But we still need to obey Him – even when we don’t feel like it. We are to love, to serve, to forgive the one who wrongs us over and over. Don’t wait for the feeling to come upon you. Maybe it never will. But sometimes – and here’s the key – joy follows an act of obedience, even if it doesn’t precede it. feature 9

JULY 2017

Worship isn’t about music 4 ways to worship God in daily life

Worship through play Are you capturing the vision? Can you see the snowball rolling? Once you understand what worship is, you can quickly fill up those 10,080 minutes in the week with pleasurable acts of worship. Even sports, hobbies, Is it music to His ears? exercise, or just laughing with your friends can be an avenue of accrediting worth to God. John Igglesden Take laughing, for instance. Have you ever thought of laughing as a spiritual activity? Of course, it depends on what it is that made you laugh. There are plenty of Our worship for God comes in many different shapes and sizes. Whether sinful things that could cause someone to crack up. we are doing dishes at home or proofing a report at work, we can act in a But laughter itself is a good thing. Not just a neutral way that worships God. Our actions should reflect our love for God in every thing – neither wrong nor right – but an actual reflection of God. aspect of our lives and should extend far from our ‘place of worship’ (a term Think about it. Laughing is good for you. The that should likely be left behind as we don’t just worship in church). mental and physiological benefits of laughing are well-documented. Laughing lowers anxiety, When it comes to music and singing, there’s no doubt it plays an important role in our praise and relieves depression and can even lengthen one’s worship (just read Psalms). It seems the difficulty comes when we ask the question, is the music we life. Laughing is part of God’s creation – which was are making worshipping God? deemed ‘good’ several times in Genesis – and is I’ve led music at church and at multiple youth and young adult camps over the past five years or therefore created for a reason. Laughter brings worth so, and I’ve basically made all the music leading mistakes you could make. I’ve started in the wrong to God by enjoying His gift. key, played the wrong song, strummed countless wrong chords – all in front of hundreds of my peers. And that applies to all areas of life. God wants us to By far the biggest mistake I’ve made though, is being too proud. Was I playing for me or for God? This enjoy His gift of creation, and when we enjoy it the right is the question music leaders need to be continually asking themselves. Why are you leading music? way, we give worth to our Creator. We must remember that music in the setting of worship plays a different role to music in God designed us to run, swim, hike, work, eat, sing, a performance setting. We have to differentiate between performing a concert and leading a write, draw, laugh. These are gifts given to us. When we congregation in worship. They both might look the same (a band on stage playing music) but the heart don’t use them (in as much as we can), we fail to give behind the music needs to be completely different. A performance is for the glory of the performer, worth to our Creator. When we use them, and enjoy worship is for the glory of God. Large teams of musicians can play perfect masterpieces, but that using them, we proclaim to the world, ourselves and to doesn’t mean they are worshipping any more or less than an elderly lady on an out of tune piano in God that He really is the good Father He says He is. But a country town hall. Music leaders must use their abilities for the glory of God, and the congregation we must use them in the way that He designed them to should participate in musical worship. be used. Otherwise, these good gifts can steal our joy My church has a group of deaf believers who participate in every aspect of the service through and destroy our soul. Worst of all, we’ll fail to accredit an admirably diligent interpreter. They can’t hear what they sound like, let alone what I sound like on worth to our Creator. stage, but it doesn’t matter. They worship with all their hearts and there is no denying that it is music to His ears. Preston Sprinkle is a speaker, podcaster, blogger and The New York Times bestselling author of several John Igglesden leads music at Yokine Baptist Church and has directed music at multiple books. He is also the President of The Center for Faith, Australian Fellowship of Evangelical Students camps during his time at university. Sexuality and Gender. For more information visit, www.prestonsprinkle.com 10 news

JULY 2017 UK festival a charitable victory

Ramona Ötting

Tens of thousands of Christians celebrated God and worshipped together during the Christian music festival Big Church Day Out in the UK. Besides having a good time together, the festival-goers raised enough money to support more than 3,000 families in hunger stricken Malawi.

The Big Church Day Out took place The UK charity and sponsor on two consecutive weekends in of the event Tearfund handed out two locations in the UK and drew 1,500 bags of popcorn kernels 20,000 attendees each from across to demonstrate how essential a the UK and Europe. simple item like grain is to people Targeted at a diverse church in Malawi, where millions struggle audience of different ages, to recover from two consecutive denominations and tastes in years of drought. music, the event featured Christian The Great British Bake Off artists and worship leaders from star and Tearfund ambassador across the world. On five stages, Martha Collison advocated artists such as Bethel Music, for the cause. She spoke

Rend Collective and Hillsong’s passionately to festival-goers Photo: Tearfund Reuben Morgan performed to an about how her faith motivates The Great British Bake Off star Martha Collison spoke to tens of thousands at this year’s Big Church Day Out to engaged audience. her to help people find ways to raise awareness of Malawi’s hunger crisis. The festival organisers called lift themselves out of poverty. it a “one of a kind expression of Over the first weekend church unity that’s as vibrant and at the Big Church Day Out, varied as its wonderful guests.” enough supporters committed “If you think about 20,000 to give five pounds a month to people gathering together for a Tearfund to provide farming World Vision helps Sri Lanka weekend, what God can do in and training for 3,400 families in through that I think is incredibly Malawi, helping them to secure exciting. We’re chuffed to bits to a hunger-free future. have a small part to play in that,” “We are hugely grateful for musician Tim Hughes said in a the generosity of festival-goers Premier Christianity interview at this year’s Big Church Day prior to the event. Out,” Tearfund’s Head of East “For us, it’s not about trying and Southern Africa Donald to perform our new songs. It’s Mavunduse said. about saying: ‘Hey, this is the This year’s Big Church Day Church gathered together on this Out was the first time in the eight beautiful location in the open year history of the festival that an air – let’s lift high the name of additional weekend was added to Jesus’,” Hughes added. the event. international briefs

Violence in Egypt ISIS targeting

continues Christians in the VisionPhoto: World Coptic Christians in Egypt Philippines Three of World Vision’s program areas in Sri Lanka have been affected by floods and landslides. continue to face violent A group of militants pledging persecution. In late May, allegiance to ISIS has laid terrorists attacked a church siege to the city of Marawi Ramona Ötting who offer a range of activities to bus trip to a monastery 140 in the southern Philippines help the children regain a sense miles south of Cairo, killing and taken Christians as of normality. 28 and injuring 23, including hostages. According to World World Vision has initiated emergency recovery Three World Vision programs children. As reported by Watch Monitor, the group operations in south-west Sri Lanka as 15 of the (Neluwa, Wattala and Nuwara Reuters, between eight has taken 13 Christians and country’s 25 districts struggle with the impact of the Eliya) and 886 sponsored children and ten gunmen opened a catholic priest as captives were affected by the disaster. fire on the bus convoy, and is using them as ‘human worst flooding in years. World Vision is monitoring the stole jewellery from some shields’ in order to force situation in these areas and of the women onboard Filipino government troops The charity delivered tarpaulins, the risk of further landslides in has addressed the needs of the and attempted to force to withdraw. Locals reported hygiene kits, medicine packs and the districts Ratnapura, Kalutara affected communities. In Neluwa, the Christians to pray the that nine civilians, who they more to the affected areas. and Galle. the World Vision team was Islamic creed. All Ramadan identified as Christians, Flooding and landslides In immediate response to the taken out of the area as a safety opening celebrations in were pulled from a truck displaced more than 16,800 situation, World Vision delivered measure. Egypt were cancelled and shot dead at a militant- people in south-west Sri Lanka essential items such as water While landslides have following the attack. It is the run checkpoint in Marawi. after torrential rain. pumps, bottled water, blankets become common in Sri Lanka third major terroristic action The militant group set fire According to World Vision, and shelters. The organisation during monsoon season due against Christians in Egypt to a number of buildings 213 people are confirmed dead, has set up child friendly spaces to heavy deforestation, World since Christmas. inside the city, including a 79 are still missing and more in some of the 185 temporary Vision National Director for Sri cathedral and a Protestant than 595,000 people have camps that emerged after the Lanka Dhanan Sennathirajah run college. been affected by the floods. flooding. These safe spaces for believes the recent events to be Continuous rain has increased children are run by trained staff particularly severe. news 11

JULY 2017 Being a Christian at Ramadan

Ramona Ötting

Christians living in majority Muslim parts of the world face multiple challenges during the month of Ramadan. In an interview with Open Doors Australia, believers from South-East Asia, Qatar and Oman shared what it is like to be a Christian during that time of the year.

From late May to late June, A group of Christians in hundreds of millions of Muslims Oman annually meet on the take part in a period of fasting ‘Night of Power’ [the climax of and prayer to commemorate Ramadan on one of the last ten the first revelation of the Quran days of the fasting period] to to the prophet Mohammed. pray for their neighbours. During Ramadan, Muslims are “We pray for Muslims not allowed to eat, drink, smoke to see the truth and receive or have sexual relations, from visions and dreams of Jesus,” sunrise to sunset, for 30 days. one local shared. A believer in South-East Asia “Each year we hear shared that he still fasts during testimonies of that actually Ramadan, but since converting to happening. They see Jesus Christianity his focus and reason dressed in white clothes.” has changed drastically. As working hours are “When I was a Muslim, I by law shortened from 8am fasted to get ‘pahala’ [spiritual to 2pm in many countries merits],” he shared. during Ramadan, Christians “I needed lots and lots of cannot help but be at least them so that at Judgment Day, somewhat affected. when Allah weighs my deeds, “That is the law, and for us my rewards would hopefully the law is a blessing since it outweigh my sins [and I could gives us time to organise extra enter paradise]. But even then, church services and worship I still couldn’t be sure that Allah meetings,” said a Christian would accept my rewards, or know from Qatar. if they would overcome my sins.” “We have more time to pray and seek God’s presence than during normal working days.” But despite some Christians’ efforts to make the best of their Even in situation, Ramadan remains a difficult time for many believers some cases, in places like Egypt. Christians may “It does carry a great deal of burden and concern for face physical the Christian community in Egypt. It is a very long 30 days violence due during which Christians in to the fact schools, work or public spaces may receive harsh looks and that they were verbal harassments from some

Muslims because of their faith,” Photo: Open Doors caught eating a Christian in Egypt explained. Muslims entering a mosque in Oman. their lunch by “Even in some cases, Christians may face physical their fasting violence due to the fact that they were caught eating their Muslim lunch by their fasting Muslim co-workers or co-workers or neighbours.” “I remember as a young boy neighbours. having to eat and drink in the school toilet to avoid trouble with Muslim classmates and teachers.” “But praise God I am now Open Doors encourages a Christian. I have Christ’s Christians to pray for their assurance that my sins are Muslim neighbours each year washed away by His blood. I don’t at Ramadan and to remember have this nagging fear anymore.” fellow believers who might “Now I fast to deepen my meet persecution during this relationship with God and to time of the year. know Christ more.” “Now I fast to pray for God to save other Muslims who are still For further information contact trying to please God.” “Now I fast so that Muslims Wade Sinclair: [email protected] or 0407 992 611 will discover the abundant bliss Visit the website www.rivo.org.au of knowing Christ as I have experienced,” he added. 12 growth

JULY 2017 Unity around what exactly? Photo: Shutterstock Rawpixel.com /

Stephen McAlpine The Left is at war with the The unity of God’s people Right. Populism is rife. A recent – locally and globally – is major study revealed that across built upon a God who doesn’t The call for unity in the West against the incessant and fatally intrusive scourge the world trust in institutions has allow us to take vengeance, of terrorism is a couple of decades too late. We have lost unity and we won’t be declined drastically, even over but who says that we should getting it back. the course of the past 12 months leave room for vengeance, [Edelman Trust Barometer]. because it belongs to Him Along with this, the religious [Romans 12:9]. We should take There is no unity left in the disconnection from the old whatever. What matters the most framework of our culture is under no comfort in calls for unity West to call us to gather around. world and all of its dogmas, and is not the source of satisfaction, increasing strain (it’s unpopular around a desire for vengeance ‘Unity around unity’ is as much a glorious utopian attachment to but the experience of it – my or is in pre-persecution stage, towards terrorists, because as empty slogan as ‘Love is the new, has failed to materialise. satisfaction. Our satisfied self is depending on your viewpoint). in the end such vengeance love’. Both are mealy mouthed We have a chimera of unity our best hope.’ Radical Islamists must not be is uncontrollable by us, as shibboleths devoid of any actual around glossy ads telling us about Volf nails it. If there is no able to believe their luck. The nationalism and nihilism content. They mean whatever ‘being connected’ and the ‘future source and only experience, West is doing all the hard work for merely prove. Besides, we see the placard holder intends them is now’, and ‘imagine a world then the call to unity is a waste them through a process of slow, the God to whom vengeance to mean. Actual content has that’. It’s all nonsense. It’s hard to of time. A source is outside of self-implosion. And then we read belongs, taking in on Himself been driven from the centre of imagine a world that stubbornly ourselves. It is a reference point, that we will never let the terrorists through His Son, all of the our culture. We are not content isn’t, when you are confronted a lodestar. An experience? Well win. What does that even mean world’s injustices and hatreds. because we are contentless, adrift with the world that shockingly is, we all have those and they to say that? If the goal of terrorism And that’s a huge safety valve. on a sea of images, personal in the faces and names of young are as subjective, fragile and is terror (it pretty much says It’s a perspective on the world experiences beyond the critique girls killed at a pop concert. ephemeral. The last one is never what it is on the packet), then that Albrechtsen and O’Neill, of anyone else, and online The problem is that there is no as important, or as vital, as the they’re doing a pretty good job of despite their admirable call out shopping. new framework to attach ourselves next one (I did mention online achieving it. on the vacuous nature of the This is a worrying time. This to. Technology overreached itself, shopping, didn’t I?). For the people of God, the way calls for unity by our ruling morning The Australian’s Janet seeing itself as an end in itself, So what is the West supposed forward must be unity, but not elite, cannot grasp. Albrechtsen, and Brendan O’Neill, rather than a means to a greater to be united around exactly? around anger. And it’s a unity that Christ is filling up, the editor of Spiked, both scorned end. And we will pay the price Both Albrechtsen and O’Neill first we model among ourselves reconciling, the entire cosmos the very idea of a call for unity, for decades to come. There is have a point. You can’t take out of to a watching world, and then around Himself. His presence precisely because of what I just no longer any commonwealth the bank what you have not put in light of that, offer it to the and work means that there said above. There is nothing to to unite around; no common in. We are a fractured society in world. Remember the Scriptures, can be no true, lasting unity be united around. That lack of goal; no common idea of the West and a call to unity is not Ephesians 4:3. around anything else, nothing, unity, a deconstruction process human flourishing; no common going to work if we have no idea ‘Make every effort to maintain at least, that will not morph into by the old postmodern crowd understanding of what is good or what to unite around. The worries the unity of the Spirit in the bond something even worse than (remember them?), was taken evil; no common understanding are that rampant nationalism, of peace.’ what we already have. up and globalised in the West that there even is good or evil. ironic nihilism, or sheer utopian Unity is not something to by the high tech whiz-kids who Well did Miroslav Volf say denial will be the calling cards left attain, but rather maintain. True Stephen McAlpine is a pastor thought that technology would in his famous essay on human on the West’s doorstep. unity is a gift from God, not and church planter for do what religion and patriotism flourishing: My worry about Albrechtsen something we build from scratch. Providence Church. had failed to do. Yet the purveyors ‘The idea of flourishing as a and O’Neill, despite my We can lose it and reduce it to of this thoroughly hypermodern human being has shrivelled to admiration for their work in nothing, but we can never build Used with permission, technology have no control over meaning no more than leading general, is that the unity they call it from nothing – it must have a www.stephenmcalpine.com its use by the most medieval an experientially satisfying for will first be around anger, then source, and a source outside our terrorists the world has yet seen. life. The sources of satisfaction around vengeance. No doubt own personal experiences. Its What was supposed to be may vary: power, possessions, about it, it is a zero sum game source is the Spirit of God, who it the freedom of our culture, a love, religion, sex, food, drugs – being played out in the West. says, binds us together in peace growth 13

JULY 2017 Foot washing is an expression of love It's a wonder we don’t wash each other’s feet more than once a year

Meghan Murphy-Gill

I took my son to church for Holy Thursday for the first time last year when he was just more than 18 months old. I worried that we’d have to leave early or stand in the back of the church, resigned to tracing the stained-glass windows with our fingers while the rest of our community prayed, listened to Scripture, shared the eucharistic meal, and washed each other’s feet.

My worries quickly abated, the one He calls teacher should however, when upon our arrival sit at His own feet and wash our priest took my son by the them. He only agrees to the whole hand and walked him through scenario once Jesus tells him, the church, explaining in hushed “Unless I wash you, you have no tones the holy practices we would share with me” [John 13:8b]. I all participate in that evening, imagine Peter covering his eyes him included. in embarrassment and wincing as My son was uncharacteristically His saviour removes his sandals quiet. How much of this is he for him. getting? I wondered to myself. Foot washing, like most Apparently enough, and more church rituals, has a meandering than I could have expected. When history. Between the lack of it came time to wash our feet, my paved sidewalks and preference son didn’t hesitate and was the for open-toed footwear, foot first to climb into a chair. As the washing was a necessity in rest of the congregation chanted Jesus’ day, not unlike the “Veni, Sancte Spiritus”, beckoning instinctual stomping and the presence of the Holy Spirit, our removing of boots those of us priest knelt at my son’s feet, helped in northern climes are familiar him remove his shoes, and poured with. A pitcher and a bowl at water over his chubby toes. I knelt the door (and a servant to do down next to him and helped dry the washing) was probably as his feet with the soft towel. It was much a sign of hospitality as it a holy moment. was a request. As someone more “It’s your mama’s turn now,” familiar with snow than sand, I the priest said, when we’d can’t help but think of my own finished washing and drying his gestures of hospitality: “Come on feet together. I helped my son out in! Can I take your coat? Oh, you of the chair and sat down. This can leave your boots right there”, part felt more uncomfortable as I motion to the tray where my to me. Between all my work, family’s own shoes are lined up. errands, cleaning and general While historians believe that caretaking as a mum, I hadn’t had Christian communities continued any time for even a DIY pedicure. to practice this ritual, and it I was embarrassed by the state of appeared in the Roman Missal in my feet, but this mattered not at the late 16th century, it wasn’t until all to my son. The priest helped the 1950s that it was included in him pour water from a stone the celebration of Holy Thursday’s pitcher over my feet. They then Mass of the Last Supper.

held them in a towel. Fat tears The Roman Missal says the Photo: Shutterstock Kittibowornphatnon / filled my eyes and tumbled down practice isn’t obligatory but ought my cheeks, surprising me. Why to be practiced when a pastoral was I crying? I wondered. need suggests it. In other words, my feet, washing and drying me. of whether we recognise it. So, recounted how one of the women “I give you a new a parish pastor can choose to Loving and serving me. there is a constant pastoral need in our congregation, whose commandment, that you love skip the ritual. I think that’s One of my biggest spiritual to liturgically practice Jesus’ new health had started to decline, sat one another. Just as I have loved a mistake, and after my Holy challenges, and one that I revisit commandment that we love one down to have her feet washed by you, you also should love one Thursday experience last year, every Lent, is to not let my ego another as we are loved by God. her husband. another,” Jesus tells His friends I am even more convinced that get in the way of my reliance on It’s a wonder we don’t wash each “They are approaching the in John’s Gospel, the only of foot washing should be a regular God. I don’t like to be vulnerable. other’s feet more than once a year. end of their life together, and here the four accounts of Jesus’ last Christian practice. And I’m wary of relying on others. When I watched my son was the sacrament of their 50-odd supper to include the story of As I reflected more deeply on As a smart, competent American easily climb into the chair and years of marriage: him washing how Jesus washed his disciples’ this new commandment from woman, I’m afflicted by a remove his shoes, I was offered her feet, her allowing him to do it, feet [John 13:34]. Holy Thursday, Good Friday to Easter and then particular zeal for self-reliance in a glimpse into what the new both in absolute trust,” my friend I thought, looking at this through the rest of the year, it the way many parents, caretakers, commandment looks like in said. “I was expecting the sky to Scripture passage, is all about occurred to me that I’d only been aid workers and nurses are. honest, vulnerable, faithful rip open any moment.” loving and humbly serving one taking part of Jesus’ instruction That pull-yourself-up-by-the- practice. It’s not merely God’s another. And yet the moment seriously. Since my son’s birth, bootstraps mentality can go too dream that we love and serve Meghan Murphy-Gill is that had moved me to tears was I’d been living out the ‘love far and is a way to make the self each other, but that we also the managing editor of when I was loved and served by one another’ part of the ‘new the centre of life instead of God. accept our own belovedness. Foot U.S. Catholic. my own son. In the days that commandment’ in a way that Sometimes, when we focus so washing, then, is sacramental, followed, I prayed and reflected consumed all the minutes of my much on serving others, and do revealing God’s desire for creation Copyright © 2017 Claretian on the cause for my tears. life. I’d cleaned his face after every so in the name of God’s love, it’s to care and be cared for. Publications. Reprinted by When Jesus prepares to wash meal, bathed him every night, and so easy to forget that we are just as Recently I was remembering permission from the April 2017 His friends’ feet His last night on wiped his bottom countless times beloved. In truth, we are reliant on last year’s Holy Thursday issue of U.S. Catholic magazine, earth, Peter protests, aghast that a day. But suddenly, here he was, at our brothers and sisters, regardless service with a friend of mine. He www.uscatholic.org 14 news

JULY 2017 James sets a new jazz standard

John Igglesden

James Morrison’s new album, The Great American Songbook debuted at number two on the ARIA Jazz and Blues Albums Chart, early June.

Featuring pieces that would many other legendary names have originally been sung, of the jazz genre. Described Morrison takes on the melodies as jazz standards by those in with his trumpet rather than the industry, the pieces are a voice, having arranged them collection of Morrison’s personal especially for trumpet and favourites that have played a orchestra. He is described significant role in his life. by renown trumpeter Dizzy “I proposed to my wife by Gillespie as, “One of the best”. walking into the bathroom The album was recorded at playing My Funny Valentine, Abbey Road Studios in London, Every Time We Say Goodbye a space famously used by The was played at the funeral of a Beatles, Pink Floyd, Cliff Richard, dear friend, Summertime was Radiohead and Coldplay. the first time I worked with a singer, A Foggy Day was the first song I performed in public on the piano (aged 10), and of course Duke Ellington … Morrison answered the unanswerable question ‘what is jazz’? in (It demonstrates Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t his love for Got That Swing),” James said. Having accepted seven Carey

the genre and Baptist College students into Photo: Alexie Jell the James Morrison Academy James Morrison blasted his way into the ARIA Jazz and Blues Albums Chart in the beginning of June. his want to of Music for 2017, Morrison encourage demonstrates his love for the genre and his want to encourage jazz in jazz in the next generation. the next Morrison sung praises of Carey Baptist College’s Hymns for Him generation. jazz culture. “That’s too many soloists in one school to be a coincidence.”

For more information, visit Accompanied by the BBC www.jamesmorrison.com Philharmonic orchestra and conducted by Keith Lockhart, The Great American Songbook is a collection of jazz classics from the likes of George Gershwin, Duke Ellington and

Editor: Matt Chapman EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING: Managing Editor: Andrew Sculthorpe Email: [email protected] Subeditor: Caitlin Quartermaine [email protected] Production: Vanessa Klomp Mail: Baptist Churches Creative: Peter Ion Western Australia Photo: Bible Society Bible Photo: Advertising: Sally Phu PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 Distribution: Sally Phu Tel: (08) 6313 6300 The Bible Society celebrates two hundred years of spreading God’s word. Editorial deadline: 5th of each month Fax: (08) 9470 1713

John Igglesden music provided by the Perth Nearly $9,000 was raised PUBLISHERS GENERAL DISCLAIMER Adventist Orchestra and Choir. for the provision of Scripture All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the Other choral music was also resources to chaplains correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person Mount Pleasant Baptist performed by various groups, throughout Australia and for who obtains this publication should act on the basis of any matter, comment or advice contained in this publication without first considering and if necessary taking appropriate Church’s Booragoon with a mix of congregational Indigenous Bible translation. professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their singing and performances. Hymnfest is annual event of own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the Campus resounded with authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any “It was very encouraging to see the Bible Society, an organisation party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. the singing of hymns to so many Christians of different ages that translates, publishes, The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia celebrate two hundred coming together to worship God distributes and engages people by imageseven. Tel: (08) 9221 9777 Email: [email protected] years of the Bible Society and celebrate a great milestone,” with the Bible across the globe. on Saturday evening Hymnfest attendee Elise Kirk said. “The orchestra and choir were For more information, visit 10 June. amazing, but the show was stolen www.dev.biblesociety.org.au by the children’s choir who won Over 1,000 Christians of all the hearts of all present,” another

imageseven bcw J3037 bcw imageseven ages attended Hymnfest, with attendee Jahjah Chou said. intermission 15

JULY 2017

read A minute with ... He is Faithful from A-Z Trish Harrop He is Faithful from A-Z is a raw selection of powerful testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Trish Harrop’s conversational style invites the reader into her life as she tells of God’s guidance, love and mercy, some even before she knew Him. The unconventional set-up gives the reader the option to read the book cover to cover or select chapters or segments as they need encouragement in a certain area of their life, much like a promise book. Each segment is an individual testimony and can be read independently with reference to other segments as appropriate. The highlighted scriptures placed through the book shows how God uses His Word to speak to people as they travel through this life and how important it is. – Dorothy

watch Photo: Baptistcare Photo: How Great is Our God Baptistcare General Manager of Aged Care Services Louie Giglio Graydn Spinks An inspiring follow on from Louie Giglio’s Indescribable, in How Great is Our God The Baptistcare General Manager of Aged Care Services is a new position for you, Louie takes the viewer on a journey what are you looking forward to? through the stars to demonstrate just Working with Baptistcare Chief Executive Officer Russell Bricknell to strengthen and how big and awesome God is. However, grow Baptistcare’s position in the complex, rapidly changing, residential care market. it doesn’t end there because this great And, delivering on its vision to transform and enrich the lives of those we care for in an and powerful God also knows everything evolving consumer driven market. about every person on the planet and desires to have a personal and individual What experiences do you bring to the role? relationship with each of us. Louie’s The last ten years I worked at Southern Cross Care where I held a number of contagious enthusiasm never dulls as senior executive roles, including General Manager Services. I also have an extensive he captures the minds and hearts of his background working in aged and community services in the not-for-profit and local listeners, appealing to those with a broad government sectors across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote settings. cosmic understanding and the lay person alike, using vision and words to weave What challenges do you envisage? his story of God’s love for everyone. ‘If the I am looking forward to leading the residential care services team in a fast-paced and Earth was the size of a golf ball …’ dynamic environment which presents many opportunities for Baptistcare. – Dorothy

How do you spend your time outside of work? I am usually at the gym and I am an armchair cricket and rugby critic (Western Force is my team), depending on the season. I also enjoy home improvements (as directed by my better half) and cooking. listen

Without Words Bethel Music Do you ever just want to escape all the noise and chatter in your world? Then you will relish the musical treat that is Bethel, Without Words. An oasis of sound for a listener’s busy day, the album is full of instrumental tracks that promise to delight their senses. There are classics This voucher entitles featured such as the harp and piano, but also some more unusual culprits like a you to 15% off your next vintage radio and a typewriter. Bethel’s Without Words is an album that can be on repeat, centring praise at home or in purchase in store at the car. – Gemma Mount Lawley

The Advocate – July 2017

Reviews by Koorong Mount Lawley staff Website: www.koorong.com Address: 434 Lord Street, Mount Lawley Phone: 08 9427 9777 16 sport

JULY 2017 Running builds friendships

Laura McRae

Baptistcare At Home Services recently supported Steven Micale to join a local running club, On My Feet, to achieve a significant personal milestone of running 100 kilometres and gain a valuable new network of friends.

The club helps people in the of achieving this goal. The community to develop self- organisation identified an worth, purpose and confidence appropriate support worker and through running. connected him to a local running Steven has made amazing club, On My Feet. progress since he started. At first he struggled to run 600 metres but through his commitment and motivation, along with support ... helps and encouragement from his support worker and running people in the club, he now regularly completes five kilometre runs and has community achieved his personal goal of to develop 100 kilometres since he began. Baptistcare offers flexible self-worth, services to support people with disabilities and their families, purpose and to live life to the full. Everyone confidence ... has the right to choose how they are supported and how their resources are used. The customer decides how much – or how little – help they need to “Steven runs every Monday manage their services. evening and this has become Baptistcare Service Facilitator one of the highlights of his week Richard Akubuiro said Steven as he connects with his support identified that he wanted to be worker and other runners, more proactive about his desire to building valuable friendships maintain a healthy lifestyle and to while improving his health and lose weight. wellbeing,” Richard said. Baptistcare, through its At

Home Services, came alongside For more information, visit Baptistcare Photo: to support him on the journey www.baptistcare.com.au Steven Micale has built a valuable network of friends and maintains a healthy lifestyle through running.

Stephen Curry reminds us God is the real MVP

John Igglesden with brother Seth and sister Sydel, they attended Central Church of God in Charlotte, The Golden State North Carolina where Stephen Warriors won the NBA met his wife. championships for the Curry is well known for his favourite Bible verse, second time in three Philippians 4:13, “I can do all seasons on 13 June. things through Christ who Not only was this the strengthens me.” The verse second championship reference 4:13 is printed on the laces of his signature shoes. win for the team, but Curry routinely reminds it was also their third himself of his purpose in life consecutive season with a personal show of faith reaching the finals. whenever he steps on the court. “I do a little sign on the court every time I make a shot The Warriors continue their or a good pass and I pound my incredible run of broken records chest and point to the sky – it and victories, with two time symbolises that I have a heart NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), for God,” Stephen explained. Stephen Curry. “It’s something that my Stephen, along with wife Mum and I came up with in Ayesha of two and a half years, college and I do it every time I is a devout Christian and was step on the floor as a reminder raised in a Christian household of who I’m playing for.”

Photo: Wikimedia Commons by his father, Dell (former NBA Stephen Curry looks to God whenever he plays for his team, the Golden State Warriors. player) and mother, Sonya. Along