theadvocate.tv APRIL 2017
IN CONVERSATION Karl Faase talks about a series he hosted, “I believe the Church will have to do some hard thinking Jesus the Game Changer, that explores how the life and teaching and cleaning up in these critical days.” of Jesus changed the world and why it matters. PAGE 12 >> HAROLD LAW-DAVIS PAGE 13>>
4 Heroes in Africa Global Interaction families changing the lives of the Yawo people >>
6 Next generations Baptist Next Generations will release a series of video testimonies >> Photo: Global Interaction Partnership with WA Baptists helps Sally Pim share the love of Jesus with the Yawo people of Mozambique.
Cross-cultural challenges 8 Digital help A range of apps and programs that may be useful people to partner through prayer, “The most exciting thing for believers >> giving and going. [about my placement] is that “I stood in front of a church I had never been to Global Interaction Learning God didn’t bring this about before, palms sweaty and knees shaking, and felt and Development Consultant through just one church, or one overwhelmed,” said Sally Pim of Riverton Baptist Susan Campbell said the reality person. There is a whole team of cross-cultural mission is that of people and churches that Community Church as she remembered her first despite careful stewardship and have stepped into this vision,” Committed to experience of partnership development. sacrifice, it is expensive. Sally said. “Inviting people to partner with “I might be physically being honest, For the last year, Sally has been Sally’s first experience was finances can be very daunting.” getting on that plane on my transparent travelling around Western repeated as she has shared in “The thought of partnership own, but through my faithful Australian Baptist churches churches, leaving her with a development can be a real supporters, the family at Global and above sharing her story of call and deeper appreciation of what deterrent for people who consider Interaction and the community commitment to serve with the it means to be part of the cross-cultural mission. Yet those of the church, I don’t feel alone reproach. Global Interaction team among community of Baptist churches who go through the journey often at all”. the Yawo people of Mozambique. in Western Australia. reflect on it with gratitude and Cross-cultural worker “I felt nervous in front of Partnership development is joy,” Susan said. Ben Good from Gosnells BAPTIST CHURCHES people I had never met, but I a critical phase in the journey Global Interaction prepares Baptist Church has had a WESTERN AUSTRALIA didn’t have to be. As I started of cross-cultural workers. It cross-cultural workers with similar experience. speaking I noticed the nods and entails sharing with people in all a one-week conference and “The provision of God and the smiles of encouragement.” kinds of settings – small groups, online learning that addresses the generosity of His people, “After the service, people conferences, over cups of coffee, the theology of partnership time and time again, astounds came up to me to share their own services, next generation events development, practical ideas and me. Just when you think that experiences of cross-cultural – with a number of aims in mind: stories from others. the task is impossible, there is mission, and to encourage me in communicating God’s heart for The state team is also God and His Church stepping my journey. The nervousness was mission; encouraging people in available, week in and week out, to up to the plate,” he said. replaced by a sense of belonging.” their life with Jesus and inviting provide support. 2 my view
APRIL 2017 Heavy distractions for ministry
As a young pastor some 30 years ago, I was approached by an insurance agent and 5. Take on new challenges so asked to take out a life cover policy. I filled out all the forms and was eventually told that you push your limits. that I wasn’t a good applicant. 6. Keep fit, run hard, walk far. 7. Attend new courses and don’t become Their internal assessment high-risk for mental health illness Here are some of my personal mentally lazy. considered pastors were in due to the rigours of church tips for healthy distractions that 8. Share those high- a high-risk occupation and I life, then I needed to build some have kept me sane and staying in maintenance ‘saints’ with was benchmarked along with counter measures into my life. ministry over the years: others so you don’t have to deep-sea divers for having an Depression is blindsiding 1. Build a ministry that doesn’t carry the entire emotional emotional breakdown. many individuals in the helping revolve around you. pastoral burden. At first it seemed funny to professions. This is due to the 2. Truly switch off from work 9. Look for achievements that me, but it became a sobering complexities of constant demands without feeling guilty. give you satisfaction. Dr John Crosby experience because it opened my in emotionally highly charged 3. Work hard in ministry but 10. Regularly complete Dr John Crosby is the Lead eyes to the emotional demands of people issues within churches, learn to hang up the pastor’s something practical, build Pastor at Morley Baptist Church ministry and the unseen pitfalls health services and communities. cloak once home and enjoy or fix it. and Army Staff Chaplain. that are there. Obviously the So as a pastor, I had to learn family. 11. Try to find an activity insurer had received too many resilience and perhaps be like a 4. Being a workaholic or that is different to church claims from stressed and anxious tennis ball that always bounces back ‘ministry-aholic’ is culture and when you find pastors. If they rated pastors as even though I was jaded at times. simply wrong. it, turn the mobile off.
On deadlines …
I recently received a reminder that today is the deadline for my monthly occasion’s dead line (as submission to this award-winning newspaper. While grateful for the memory two separated terms) has jog, it did get my mind thinking about the term ‘deadline’. referred to a line of social etiquette beyond which one cannot (or rather should The dictionary definition is If you’re fascinated by close to the prison fence or gate. not) stray. While you might simple enough. A deadline history or like to excel at Trivial Any closer, and you were likely to get away with belching in is the latest time or date by Pursuit, the origin of the term become target practice. In short, the company of some, for which something should be is interesting. Apparently it first originally a deadline was literally others it would cross the completed. appeared in 1864 during the that. Stray beyond that line, and dead line. If your stomach How serious is a deadline? American Civil War and referred you’re dead. is unsettled, it is most Well, presumably the ‘dead’ is to a line drawn around a prison There are other uses important to know who fits the giveaway. Don’t do this, beyond which prisoners were for deadlines. Those in the into which category. Dr Brian Harris and you are no longer living. liable to be shot. I guess it’s not printing industry will tell you So what are your Dr Brian Harris is the Principal Or perhaps it is just your too hard to understand. that a dead-line (note that deadlines? Of course the line of Vose Seminary and Pastor at project that will expire. For this Anxious to ensure that in this use it has a hyphen) of death is a pretty decisive Large for the Carey Group. newspaper, I think it is your prison inmates did not become was a line on a printing press one. Perhaps there are things project that dies, but I don’t ‘out mates’, the authorities would beyond which the text would you must do before that line plan to put it to the test. let potential escapees get only so not print properly. And on rare is reached …
God is closer than you think
We all have our favourite Old Testament or New Testament books – just as we Closer than you Think, have our favourite verses in the Bible. A favourite concept in the Gospel of John John Ortberg writes about how is the word ‘believe’. we can discover and enjoy God in day-to-day living as we respond to God and see ‘Believe’ appears at least 98 times. opponents. At any rate, once they like receiving a gift, drinking God working in our lives as He It always occurs in the verb form, had met Him, they could not refreshing water, entering by a refreshes us in our relationship never the noun form (‘believe’ remain neutral. door into a sheepfold. The need with Him. When I have been never ‘belief’). This continually Along with the word ‘believe’, is met, the thirst is quenched, the dealing with the difficulties of gives the impression of action, of John employs a number of hunger is satisfied. certain situations in church life, something happening. synonyms to make his meaning In the midst of ‘all of this’ I have had to just take a step back John is teaching the meaning clear. Some of these are ‘receive’ about ‘believe’, I am able to be and realise that ‘God is closer of believing in Jesus not so much [1:12], ‘drink’ [4:14], ‘come’ [6:35], ‘refreshed’ by the daily things I than I think’ and that He has Peter Christofides by definition as by illustration. ‘eat’ [6:51], ‘enter’ [10:9]. All these do while living as a follower of been present all the time – in Peter Christofides is the The word is used to indicate words, used in the routine of Jesus Christ. When the matters the good and in the bad – and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church the response of people to Jesus. daily life, become full with of life are not lining up to what He is the God who is refreshing Coolbellup Campus Pastor. If they believed in Him, they meaning when applied to the I anticipated, I can respond to me while ‘we’ (Him and I) are became His followers; if they spiritual relationship of people my Saviour and rely on Him to in action. The very thought is did not believe, they became His to Christ. Believing in Him is refresh me. In his book, God is refreshing as we believe! 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
APRIL 2017 Austin Cove tops Peel ATAR
Jess Cockerill
Austin Cove Baptist College is a newcomer to the Peel region, but in 2016 it topped the ATAR ranking of local schools.
Established in 2011, its cohort The only other school in the of only nine Year 12 students region to do so was Frederick for 2016 was the smallest of any Irwin Anglican College. All school in the area. students enrolled in Vocational However, the median Education and Training courses ATAR score for those nine at Austin Cove Baptist College students was 85.15: the highest achieved Certificate II or higher. median of any school in the “It’s very exciting ... obviously region, and the only school in because it’s a new school, it’s the region to outperform the good to get on the radar in the Western Australian median Peel-Mandurah area, and the ATAR of 80.85. fact is that a lot of our students This is only the second worked incredibly hard, because cohort of ATAR students to of the tight academic processes graduate from the school. we have in place,” Principal The School Curriculum and Orlando dos Santos said. Standards Authority record “We make sure we give the ATAR statistics for schools with kids the best opportunities, but groups of 20 or more ATAR we have a pretty tight discipline
students, and so Austin Cove policy as well, and because Photo: Austin Cove Baptist College did not appear on the tables for we’ve got smaller classes we Austin Cove Baptist College Principal Orlando dos Santos greeting students as they arrive at school. 2016, as with Coodanup College. can also give our kids more However, in 2016 Austin Cove individual attention.” Peel region five years ago. They For more information, phone Article used with permission Baptist College attained a 100 Austin Cove Baptist College are currently taking enrolments 9520 8200. from the Mandurah Mail. Original percent graduation rate. started educating children in the for 2018 with a new fee structure. article published 9 January 2017.
New for WA events
Photo: Dorothy ZanderPhoto: It’s never too soon to start Jess Ford is the new Baptist Churches Western Australia Events Coordinator. planning for your retirement
Jess Ford joined Baptist Churches Western Australia We’re here to assist you in identifying your options and team as the new Events Coordinator in January. goals for a happy and full life. She brings a high level of industry expertise and professionalism to events such as Leavers, SportsFest Choose from 9 lifestyle villages in great locations A variety of accommodation options to with secure, low maintenance properties – suit your preferences and budget. and the Pastoral Retreat. Mundaring, Lesmurdie, Rockingham, Byford, Support for you to live at home independently Margaret River, Busselton and Albany. with Baptistcare At Home Services. Properties are now available for sale at Baptist Churches Western Australia said she can combine her passions Co-located with our 14 residential care Yallambee Village (Mundaring), Sunshine Park Executive team member Ross in this role. facilities in metro Perth and regional WA. Daniels said he is delighted with “I enjoyed working in the Village (Lesmurdie), Bethel Village (Albany) and Enjoy being part of a . this new appointment. corporate world running events, William Carey Court Village (Busselton). caring community “We have been blessed to have they were fun, but this role Jess start with us and are already combines the eternal hope that are looking at how we ‘do’ events we have in Christ, with the great Call us today on with a new set of eyes. It’s been events,” she said. wonderful to assess why we do 9282 8650 what we do, as we are passionate For more information baptistcare.com.au about helping people say ‘yes’ to about Baptist Churches Jesus,” Ross said. Western Australia events, visit Baptistcare, one of WA’s largest not-for-profit providers of at home services, residential care, disability Jess, an active member of www.baptistwa.asn.au services and retirement living, offers flexible support tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 4 news
APRIL 2017 Local heroes in Africa
It’s not often a person can experience life stripped back to the basic necessities.
This is what it is like for five of miles. To gather the families families of Global Interaction together, and give them strength field workers in Malawi and to continue their work, a retreat Mozambique. Baptist Churches was held for them in January at a Western Australia Director of Malawi game park. Ministries Mark Wilson and his The retreat was made possible wife Karen had the privilege of through a ‘pass-the-hat’ offering hearing their stories on a recent at Fresh Leadership conference retreat in Malawi. 2016 which covered most of the They face rough roads, costs. Mark and Karen were able interruptions to schedules, to spend time with the Global health and economic challenges. Interaction field workers as Add to this the isolation, daily they came together for worship,
village walks, conversing with teaching, sharing biblical insight, Photo: Ben Good locals in the local language and discussion and prayer. The Mozambique Global Interaction team celebrates Australia Day with Mark and Karen Wilson (far left) during dealing with grief and loss. This “During this time, we a team retreat in Malawi. is a snapshot of what the Global experienced some of the richest Interation field workers deal with moments of God leading in on a daily basis. Yet, there is a powerful ways through the passion and joy for what they families,” Karen said. feel called to do, an incredible Two young women, from testament to God working Riverton Baptist and Yokine Exceptional growth for BFS through them. Baptist Church in Perth, paid their own way to conduct a program for the children of the Anina Findling building, including an Early families. The parents said they Learning Centre; and True ... we felt incredibly blessed by their North Church’s new campus generosity and the children Baptist Financial Services has experienced and child care centre in experienced thrived under their care. exponential growth in Western Australia over the Merriwa. some of the There are unreached people last four years, with total state investment and loan “With this increase in groups around the world that demand for our unique richest moments Global Interaction seeks to help and balances increasing from $28m and $8m to $56m ministry-based loans, we need share God’s Word with. Although and $23m respectively. to encourage further growth of of God leading not everyone can physically go, investment funds to fund these in powerful hundreds of Australians offer loans,” Anina said. financial support to the workers in Founded over 30 years ago, between many of our ministries “Many of our churches ways through these remote places. Baptist Financial Services is the under the leadership of Baptist already have investment “After immersing ourselves in ‘financial arm’ of Australian Churches Western Australia accounts with us, but the families the challenges of life in Africa, we Baptist Ministries with the Director of Ministries Mark individuals, Christian left with a deep sense of gratitude primary purpose of financing Wilson, who actively encourages organisations and businesses to those who answer God’s calling the growth of God’s Kingdom us to work together more.” can also have funds with us for Global Interaction is working there,” Karen said. across Australia. Some recent Christian 31 days, plus investment options with the Yawo people of Malawi “There is a daily challenge of Baptist Financial Services ministry projects financed earning great returns.” and Mozambique to improve their hearing and responding to God’s (BFS) Relationship Manager by BFS in Western Australia “Investors can have the quality of life, and desire to see voice, as he leads the field workers for Western Australia, Anina include Emmanuel Christian added joy of knowing their them come into a knowledge of into new and unreached places.” Findling said other states Community School’s funds are being used solely Jesus Christ. “The Global Interaction across the country are not expansion into high school to further Christian ministry One of the greatest families embrace this with necessarily experiencing this and constructing an additional growth,” she said. challenges the families face is the courage and fervour, changing same rate of growth. building close to their previous geographical isolation – the team the lives of the Yawo people “I believe this is largely due primary school; South Perth For more information, email is often separated by hundreds through their work.” to the increased collaboration Baptist Church’s renovated [email protected] digital church
15/03/17 18/03/17 19/03/17 19/03/17 20/03/17 Craig Groeschel Simon Elliott Louie Giglio Rick Warren Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra twitter.com/craiggroeschel writesomething.org.au twitter.com/LouieGiglio pastorrick.com/devotional thegospelcoalition.org Praying is as important as breathing. I must disappoint you, The beauty of the cross is that There is no place that you can go The way to not waste your life, I depend on His presence every I must. There’s sin it proves no matter how bleak where God’s love isn’t. You’ll never Piper said, is to give God glory for moment of every day. residue still stuck on my the circumstance, God still be separated from God’s love. every gift, because everyone – stammering, stricken makes a way for His purpose from a new car to physical safety 15/03/17 heart, but you know this and plan. 20/03/17 to your own next heartbeat – is Kyle Idleman because I’m a work Amy Boucher Pye grace bought and paid for twitter.com/KyleIdleman in progress. 19/03/17 odb.org through the cross. Justice is God’s job. When we insist Zac Hicks How do we relate to God? Do on holding onto our right to get even, 18/03/17 desiringgod.org we seek Him mainly in times of 20/03/17 we put ourselves in God’s place. Adam Weber The beginning of worship trouble, searching for answers CS Lewis lifeway.com/pastors is a critical moment when in our distress but ignoring Him twitter.com/CSLewisDaily 16/03/17 The truth is that, on our we release everything else during our seasons of celebration? A wrong sum can be put right: JD Greear own, we are in inadequate. demanding our attention into Are we like the Israelites, easily but only by going back till you jdgreear.com In every way … Thankfully, the capable hands of the very swayed by the idols of our find the error and working afresh God doesn’t choose the best. He it’s not about who we are. One we are preparing age, including such things as from that point, never by simply chooses the willing. It’s only about who God is. to encounter. busyness, success, and influence? going on. news 5
APRIL 2017 Inspiration in Cambodia
Gershon Nimbalker
Women leaders of the Australian Baptist movement recently travelled to Cambodia to witness firsthand the transformation taking place among some of the poorest people and communities in the world.
They went with Baptist World For just over two years, Aid Australia to learn, and then one of Baptist World Aid’s return to inspire a generation Christian partners in the field of women in the Baptist has been working in Saram’s movement to help end the community. When the women poverty and injustice that mars met her, she was brimming our world. with the expectation of “We want to take the stories new possibilities. of the ones and twos to the thousands, so they can hear, feel and respond. Whether that be by giving generously or by We are advocating,” Western Australian Director of Baptist Women constantly and coordinator of Fresh being met conference, Karen Wilson said. The women journeyed from with moments Siem Reap, home of the ancient temples of Angkor, past serene of despair country side and lush, green giving way rainforests, to some of the most isolated villages in the world. to hope, For all its beauty, however, ignorance to the scars of Cambodia’s recent Photo: Steph Dobbin history were apparent at every knowledge Baptist women in leadership on their recent trip to Cambodia. turn for the women. “It’s confronting. The and depths of the wounds, they “I’ll be very happy when I sit with you personally. It’s helplessness to see them become successful,” unsettling,” Queensland’s She opportunity. Saram said. Is Conference leader Elissa For the women, meeting Macpherson said. Saram was one of the In the 1970s a civil war, highlights of the trip. But followed by the reign of the Saram has joined a savings Saram’s story sits among so genocidal dictator, Pol Pot, left group and learnt new skills in many other stories of renewed the nation as one of the world’s chicken rearing and animal hope that they heard. Children least developed. husbandry. She is also learning are being educated, women Among a myriad of about the importance of are finding confidence, problems, the aftermath has sanitation and hygiene. livelihoods are being meant the nation’s health and Twelve months ago, enhanced and communities education system is severely Saram took a $125 loan from are gaining access to new underdeveloped, while large her savings group to build skills, hygienic toilets and swaths of road, transport a chicken coup and to start clean water. and trade infrastructure has a chicken rearing business. “When you take these been destroyed. Landmines Within a year, she and her stories into your own, they indiscriminately placed by husband have more than change you,” long-term justice combatants still litter many areas tripled their farming income, advocate and representative of the countryside making a lot paying back the loan within a of Together conference of good agricultural land too few months. They used their in Darwin Julie Shatz risky to utilise. surplus income to build a toilet, commented. In one remote village they a cleverly designed bucket tap “We are constantly being visited, the women met Saram. for handwashing and installed met with moments of despair Saram has had three days a lined garbage bin. When the giving way to hope, ignorance of schooling in her entire women visited Saram’s home to knowledge and helplessness life. Growing up, access to it was spick-and-span, and to opportunity. We need to school was difficult, and, as is most importantly, free from get these stories of change often the case, Saram’s family the constant risk of disease out there so people respond,” probably couldn’t justify the that comes from living in Baptist Financial Services WA cost of education for their unsanitary conditions. Relationship Manager and daughter when there were more As the women talked with member of Mount Hawthorn immediate needs to be met. her, Saram cradled her baby Baptist Church, Anina Findling For almost all her life, Saram’s boy and spoke about her commented. village had no toilets. They dreams for the future. She “I haven’t seen any more also lacked awareness of basic talked of her plans to continue effective model for change hygiene practices, which, in a expanding her business, to than what we are seeing here country like Cambodia, meant a educate her children, and to from Baptist World Aid.” constant battle with poor health share her learnings with her and the loss of far too many community so they too can children to preventable diseases be successful. like diarrhoea. Already, groups of people
Saram said her life “just felt from neighbouring villages Photo: Steph Dobbin hopeless”. But, recently, Saram have come to learn from Saram Saram’s life has been transformed after starting a chicken has turned over a new leaf. and her husband. rearing business. 6 news
APRIL 2017 New vision for next generations Photo: Ed Devine Some of the children, youth and young adults celebrating their involvement in Next Generations.
share about what He’s done in God Relevant’ weekend and a and make sure we equip and our lives. That is why our theme quarterly gathering for young support them the best we can,” Baptist Next Generations will share its stories by for 2017 is ‘Celebrating our adults called ‘The Mix’. Live Sarah said. releasing a series of video testimonies in 2017. The Stories of Jesus’.” streaming will be broadcast from Como Baptist Church videos will include children, youth and young adults “We hope to share these events so country churches Youth Pastor LJ Williams said testimonies from the diverse can be part of the action. that after becoming connected explaining how their lives have been changed by places of our Next Generations Assisting Ed in the work is to the Next Generations Youth what Jesus has done. movement which all point to the the inaugural Next Generations Pastors network she felt like wonderful things Jesus has done team of volunteers, consisting of she was not alone in youth and is doing in us.” Inglewood Community Church ministry anymore. Baptist Next Generations refers story of who makes up the Practical training and Children and Youth Pastor The Next Generations team to the ‘arm’ of Baptist Churches next generation of Baptists in fellowship events are also Andrew Binns, Mount Pleasant wants to see more children’s, Western Australia (BCWA) WA,” BCWA Next Generations planned for 2017 that help Baptist Church Young Adults youth and young adult pastors that serves the pastors and Consultant Ed Devine said. facilitate ongoing growth such as Pastor Jonathan Anthony and united and supported to ensure leaders of children’s, youth and “We may be from city or the Beyond Kidsmin Conference Riverton Baptist Community the best work possible can be young adults ministries across country churches and from for Children’s Pastors to be held Church Children’s Ministries done in sharing Jesus with Western Australia. many different ethnic groups 13 to 14 October. Other events Coordinator Sarah French. young people. “We felt that in launching but we are children, youth and include combined youth events “Our goal is to recognise the Baptist Next Generations it young adults who all have Jesus such as the recent Ravi Zacharias real needs of pastors working For more information, email was important to tell the whole in common, and have stories to International Ministries ‘Is with the next generations [email protected]
Kennedy shooting goals with new sports centre
Sandra Doick Principal Mark Ashby said The sports courts a highlight of the assembly was are complemented by a the presentation by Mr Morton dedicated fitness and strength Wednesday 8 March of a commemorative plaque to gymnasium and ample change was a significant day in Kennedy Head Boy Joe Frost and and shower facilities. the annals of Kennedy Head Girl Anna Zwitser. Kennedy Baptist College “Today we acknowledge the acknowledged it was fortunate to Baptist College as its opening of our sports centre that receive financial support for this new sports centre was will provide improved services project from the Department of officially opened by the through physical and health Education and Training’s Capital Minister for Education, education. There is no doubt that Grants Program and a low interest there is a positive link between loan from the Government of Aboriginal Affairs and fitness, wellbeing and improved Western Australia. Electoral Affairs Peter educational achievement and it The building, designed by T&Z Collier and Federal is our goal to provide all students Architects, is based on delivering Liberal Member for with access to our new centre to a visually striking elite level facility maximise this link,” Mark said. through cost-effective means and Tangney Ben Morton. The new Kennedy Baptist incorporates environmentally College Sports Centre is a sustainable design principles. In his address at the sports centre dedicated sporting complex Basketball is a high profile sport opening assembly Mr Collier said that can be configured to suit at the College and students are “The buildings bricks and mortar multiple basketball, netball, privileged to be coached by former do not make a school, what makes volleyball or badminton courts. Perth Wildcats Coach Andy Stewart a good school comes from within It can also be formed into a who is presently Perth Lynx Head those walls, the staff and students single Federation International Coach and State Basketball League create the culture of the school and Basketball Association player Jess Van Schie, who are
Kennedy Baptist College has an certified basketball court that delighted that Kennedy now has Photo: Sandra Doick excellent and enviable reputation delivers optimum comfort its own state-of-the-art facility for Minister for Education, Aboriginal Affairs and Electoral Affairs Peter Collier outside the walls of this school.” and performance. training and games. finding out what Kennedy students think about their new sports centre. news 7
APRIL 2017 WA women protect vulnerable
Greg Wood
May* was 16 when she was sold into prostitution.
At a time when young girls should made to live through the horrors be going to school and spending of exploitation, slavery and abuse. time with their friends, May was Fresh Conference is one of already working as a domestic several Australian Baptist women’s cleaner and bearing the burden of conferences that has committed to helping her family to survive. supporting the Vulnerable So, when the offer of a higher Children Fund every year. paying job came along, it was just “A few years ago, we really felt too good to refuse. Sadly, it was God lay on our heart the children also too good to be true. of the world,” founder of Fresh “It was only when I reached that Conference Karen Wilson said. place my heart sank,” May said. “So, I went to Baptist World “The job she was taking me to Aid and, at the same time, the was prostitution.” Vulnerable Children Fund was May was forced to work in being launched. It’s just that brothel for more than a year, remained a really good fit.” selling her body over and over Karen has recently returned again so she could buy back her from a Women in Leadership own freedom. trip with Baptist World Aid Heartbreakingly, her to Cambodia.
experience is not unusual, “This year [at Fresh] we’re Photo: Baptist World Aid Australia according to Baptist World going to tackle slavery, protecting Founder of Fresh Conference Karen Wilson (far right) and Australian women leaders at Fresh Conference 2016. Aid Australia. women and children from Girls just like May, and even slavery. Women and children like younger, are trafficked and sold May,” she said. increase their incomes, provide immediately how important it “If I see someone doing the into child marriage, prostitution Through its faithful support for their children, and keep was for her to protect the rights wrong thing, I need to warn them.” and other forms of bonded labour of the Vulnerable Children them safe in school. Its of her children. But she also every day. Fund, Fresh Conference is generosity is ensuring that realised that by speaking out in For more information, visit Baptist World Aid Australia helping to educate families so parents are taught the needs her community, she could help baptistworldaid.org.au/ Vulnerable Children Fund they won’t be taken in by the and rights of their children. to save other children from her vulnerable-children-fund supports important work to help lies of child traffickers. It is also When May first met Baptist own heartbreaking fate. families protect their girls and helping to reduce the risk of World Aid’s Christian partner in “[Now] I help others by * May’s name has been changed boys from a fate like May’s. Its aim trafficking by assisting poor the field, a decade on from her making them understand their for privacy and protection. is that no child should ever be and vulnerable families own experience, she understood responsibility,” May said.
Program builds optimism briefs
“This program is helping Builder of WA Avenue, Dalkeith. Please RSVP students understand their Baptists talk by 16 April to Wai Chee Yao at A new mental health program aimed at helping thinking style, and giving them All are invited to hear Sue [email protected] students tackle anxiety and depression has been the knowledge to be able to Clark pay tribute ‘Bob Clark, change their thinking through builder of Baptists of WA’. Pastoral changes having an immediate impact in schools. ways of empowering them to care Her talk will cover his time Pastor Mark A Wilson has for themselves,” she said. as General Superintendent been appointed as the Pastor The Aussie Optimism program is More than 110 chaplains were Jenny said the skills being of Baptist Churches Western at Melville Baptist Church. a joint initiative between trained to run the program in 2016. taught to students through the Australia from 1981 to Pastor Keith Hall has been YouthCARE and Curtin Craigie Heights Primary program were having a positive 2000, and his dedicated appointed the part-time University and is being School and Eden Hill Primary impact on home life as well. and effective work for God Interim Pastor at Yokine implemented in schools through School YouthCARE Chaplain “I remember a conversation which covered many areas, Baptist Church for six months. YouthCARE chaplains, teachers Jenny Palandri said it was making with a parent whose daughter was including the Baptist Union and principals. a dramatic difference in schools. working through some issues,” of Australia and numerous Annual Vose she said. churches. Afternoon tea will Booksale “Her brother encouraged her to be held after the talk, where The annual Vose Booksale will change her thinking through those present can chat with be held on Saturday practical ways he had learnt in Sue. The event will be hosted 8 April 2017 at 20 Hayman Aussie Optimism.” by the Baptist Historical Road, Bentley. “It’s encouraging to see the Society of Western Australia Vose Seminary will have over effect the course is having in a at 2.30pm on Sunday 7 May 30,000 second-hand books larger sense.” 2017 at Mount Pleasant Baptist of all kinds for sale. Plants Aussie Optimism aims to Church – 497 Marmion and gifts will also be on sale, provide schools and families with Street, Booragoon. For more with a sausage sizzle to keep practical information and information, email ejwalker@ shoppers sustained while strategies that can help all children bigpond.com browsing. EFTPOS facilities build coping skills and self-esteem. will be available. Curtin University research Dalkeith Baptist coordinator Natalie Baughman Church 80th said children could not always be anniversary protected from stress. Dalkeith Baptist Church “However, they can be invites you to celebrate its provided with the skills necessary 80th anniversary at 10am to cope with stress and to rise on Sunday 30 April 2017,
Photo: Community Newspaper Group above life’s difficulties and followed by a light lunch and Chaplain Jenny Palandri speaking with Year 4 students challenges,” she said. fellowship at 123 Waratah 8 feature
APRIL 2017 Digital help for believers
Ramona Ötting
Computers, tablets and smart phones have heavily Above: Podcasts make it impacted the way that many Australians walk through life. easy to listen to quality teaching content by renowned pastors wherever you are. In 2015, the mean number of devices with access to the internet was six devices per Australian household (seven Right and top right: for households with children under 15); 86 percent of Bible apps, such as the YouVersion Bible app, these including smart phones, 62 percent tablets. In provide convenient our everyday lives, smart devices are used to point access to God’s Word on out the quickest way to the beach, to research tablets and smart phones. shopping bargains or to watch hilarious videos of
Lower right: Prayer funny pets. organiser apps can be useful to organise prayer requests and set-up Smart devices can also be valuable tools in a prayer reminders. believer’s journey through life as there are many apps and programs which attempt to help Christians in their walk with the Lord.
The Advocate team have compiled a list of applications and programs which we hope our fellow believers might find useful: from Bible reading and prayer request apps to programs which help services run smoothly. feature 9
APRIL 2017 Digital help
Bible apps Note-taking apps Music apps A commonly used app for reading Scripture is the There are many moments in a Christian’s walk with Many Christian musicians upload their music onto for believers YouVersion Bible app, featuring free access to 1,480 the Lord where they can find themselves scrambling online music libraries such as Spotify, Pandora or Apple translations in 1,073 languages. The app has been installed for a pen and piece of paper. Be it wanting to jot down Music. These libraries operate on a monthly subscription on more than 261 million smart phones and tablets something picked up in a sermon, take note of an emotion or advertisement financed basis and give easy access to worldwide. It allows users to highlight verses and share they felt God has laid on their heart or scribble down a the newest albums by Kari Jobe, Hillsong Worship, Michael them with friends, have Scripture read out to them and creative idea for an outreach program. While there might W Smith and many others. Again, a great lift for a daily access hundreds of free devotionals and reading plans. very well be a note-taking app specifically designed for commute to work, but when travelling in rural areas keep in Other Bible apps, such as the Olive Tree Bible app, Christians, there are several ‘secular’ note-taking apps mind that mobile data is required for most of these apps. focus on in-depth Bible study, allowing users to access available which can serve as a multipurpose helper in commentaries, Greek and Hebrew tools, Study Bibles and these times of need. A good, free note-taking app is Apps which help services run smoothly maps which complement the freely available translations. OneNote which syncs typed, handwritten and voice Apps and programs can not only support a walk Olive Tree’s note-taking function makes notes easily recorded notes across most common devices. Notes can with the Lord, they can also help a church with its daily accessible for future study as they are displayed in-text be organised in groups and easily searched through. operations. Baptist Financial Services have launched and can be tagged (categorised) with custom keywords the online portal GiveWay which provides an online similar to a concordance or keyword register. Apps to freshen-up quiet time secure portal for financial giving and offerings toward For those who do not only like taking notes but are participating churches and organisations. Apps for children also into journalising, Day One (iPhone, Mac) or Journey Other apps combine several church activities and Another valuable app by YouVersion is The Bible App (Android) are valuable alternatives to pen and paper. These resources into one. The Church App, for example, aims to for Kids. The animated storybook Bible for smart phones apps can auto-capture weather and location data, sync combine all church resources, giving and contact options, and tablets includes more than 40 easy-to-read stories across devices and backup using iCloud or Google Drive. podcasts and more into one handy app (used by several from the Old and New Testament which children can They provide an easy-to-use interface, which lets users big churches such as Bethel). either read by themselves, have parents read out to them, capture their thoughts while being given the opportunity A powerful church management program for or listen to by using the in-built audio book Bible. Each to add pictures and publish straight to social media or a churches of all sizes is Planning Center. The program chapter includes touch-activated animations and game personal blog. helps organise church services and includes optional elements which make the stories and their characters The app First 5 aims to help believers connect with features such as a giving, check-in and church attendee come alive. The app is available in 25 languages, including God during the first five minutes of each and every day. management tool. It allows users to set up service run Afrikaans, Mandarin and Hindi. Targeted at women, it opens up first thing in the morning sheets, schedules for volunteers and organise chord charts and offers a daily devotional accompanying a Scripture for the worship team. Team members can login online Prayer organiser apps reading with the goal to help women check-in with God to access resources for personal practices at home or to Due to busy everyday lives, it can be easy to forget that before social media, emails and other commitments take blockout dates of unavailability. we have promised to pray for someone. Several apps have up His spot. Planning Center neatly interconnects with Music taken on the task of aiding believers in organising their Stand (a digital music stand app which gives the worship prayer lives and helping to remember prayer requests. Podcasts team access to chord charts on mobile devices) and Echo is a simplistic prayer app which allows users to take For those who cannot make it to church on a Sunday, ProPresenter (a projector program which can source note of prayer requests, schedule one-off or repeated but still would like to listen to some teaching, podcasts are service run sheets and lyrics directly from Planning prayer reminders and highlight prayers as ‘answered’. a great go-to option. A podcast is an audio file available Center, saving valuable time spent copy-pasting lyrics). PrayerMate has a similar purpose but comes on the internet (often as part of a series), which can be with a more complex set-up which enables users to downloaded and listened to on a smart phone, tablet or Resource apps for spiritual church growth categorise prayers, import and export prayer lists, and computer. Apps such as Podcasts (iPhone) or Pocket Casts There are many apps and online tools aimed at subscribe to prayer RSS feeds by organisations such (Android) put podcasts by well-known pastors, Christian blessing Christians and their church community through as Open Doors Australia. intellectuals and some local WA churches at a person’s quality resources. RightNow Media is a subscription- fingertips. They make it very convenient and fast to access based video service (similar to ‘secular’ streaming services a large variety of teaching content at home or on the go. like Netflix) which churches can subscribe to in order to Listening to podcasts by Timothy Keller, Andy Stanley and provide all its members with free access to over 15,000 other renowned pastors is a great way of adding value to a Bible studies as well as over 2,000 Bible-based shows for daily commute to work (while keeping safe on the roads, children. The Hillsong app provides free access to music of course). videos, TV episodes, blog content and conference streams. SmallGroups.com offers thousands of Bible studies as well as leadership, ministry and training resources at affordable prices.
There are many ways believers can use their devices in their daily walk with Christ. Assess and discover the apps that work best for you, your journey and your church. 10 news
APRIL 2017 Child hunger in UK increasing
Ramona Ötting
UK non-profit organisation MakeLunch Director Rachel Warwick has voiced her concern that the organisation had to feed more children than ever during the February school holidays.
MakeLunch is a network of driven by local communities with churches working to fill the holiday support from the Government, hunger gap. It aims to provide businesses and charities to ensure primary school children who no child goes hungry in the qualify for free school meals during holidays,” he insured. term times with free meals during According to 2014/2015 data school holidays. The organisation provided by the UK Department runs 64 project kitchens across the for Work and Pensions, 3.9 million United Kingdom and recently had children in the UK live in families to implement a waiting list. that struggle financially; that is In the UK, around 1.2 million nine children in a classroom of 30. children of families with low The Institute for Fiscal Studies incomes are entitled to free projects that child poverty in the school meals. UK will rise by 50 percent by 2020. “We’ve been ignoring the issue, While the Welsh Government I think, because there’s been no announced £500,000 funding provision for these families in per year for lunch clubs and the school holidays. We’re serving in Scottish Government has started more places than we ever have,” serious inquiries into the issue, the Rachel said in an interview with English Government has not yet
Premier Christianity. coordinated government actions Photo: Victoria Kovelina MakeLunch runs 15 training against the concerning trend. UK non-profit organisation warns that an increasing amount of children in Britain go hungry during school holidays. days a year to train up new church partners willing to open a school holiday kitchen. Founder of the charity, Rachel wished to raise awareness of the growing concern as she feels it is No more compassion in India important to assist those who have not been provided for. “We’re emailing MPs, we have Ramona Ötting Compassion will formally end be supported anymore, not just my hostility towards the Christian been inviting them to our clubs, all program operations in India’, own sponsor child,” Jess said. organisation. just to constantly challenge the read Compassion Australia’s “I was, however, glad that I Compassion emphasised that Government and say: ‘This is what Due to restrictions announcement to its supporters. was able to support Sadhana for it accepts and serves children we’re doing about this problem imposed by the Indian The closure affects 147,000 much of her life. This hopefully and communities of all faith – what are you doing about this government, Compassion children and 589 local church has helped to set her up well for backgrounds and categorically does problem?’,” Rachel said. partners in India. Australian adulthood.” not require or force conversion to Frank Field MP, who International was forced sponsors of children in India have While not receiving an official Christianity. co-established the All-Party to close its operations in received letters informing them explanation, Compassion believes The organisation unsuccessfully Parliamentary Group on Hunger India on 15 March. about the events. that the closure was caused by tried to resolve the situation through and Food Poverty was working on Jess Magowan sponsored 14 foreign non-profits being subjected in-country legal actions, appealing a solution. year old Sadhana for 11 years. to increased scrutiny, efforts to the US Secretary of State and “We are now on the lookout ‘It is with heavy hearts we “It broke my heart to know the to reduce India’s dependency testifying in front of the US House for national solutions that can be announce that on 15 March 2017, amount of children who would not on foreign funds, and religious Foreign Affairs Committee. international briefs
Children in Ukraine Prayer wall planned in Hispanic Christians in need England worried The number of children in need in A wall of answered prayer is According to a recent survey by the Ukraine has doubled since last planned to be built in England. the Pew Research Center, half of year, rising to one million children Each brick of the wall will the Hispanic Christians living in need of humanitarian aid, represent an answered prayer in the United States are worried UNICEF reported. The number has with a testimony by the person about being deported or losing increased drastically due to ongoing who donated the brick. Former someone close to them because of conflict between Ukrainian forces soccer chaplain Richard Gamble deportation. More than four out of and Russian-speaking separatists, said he had the vision for the ten have ‘serious concerns’ about loss of housing and poor access to project 13 years ago. The ultimate what life will be like with Donald health care. One in five schools has location of the wall has not yet Trump as President of the United been destroyed since the beginning been determined, but Mr Gamble States, reported Christianity Today. of the conflict in 2014. The hopes it will be built where many The Trump administration had Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church people pass by every day. In announced in February that Major-Archbishop Sviatoslav February, the Royal Institute of actions against undocumented Shevchuk appealed to the world British Architects presented five immigrants will be increased and community not to turn a blind eye concept design proposals to the deportation processes sped up. towards the situation. “Such tragedy British Parliament. Each brick will cannot and must not remain be available for £10. All profits will invisible,” he said. be donated to charity. news 11
APRIL 2017 Good news from Syria
Ramona Ötting
After years of concerning news from Syria, stories of light have started to break through the darkness in the conflict-torn country. A Syrian pastor and the coordinator of a Christian bookshop share stories of hope, love and church growth with their supporters.
Throughout the conflict, the Christian bookstore Bible House has been a point of stability and comfort for many in Aleppo, Syria, the Bible Society reported. Gaith* advised the joy he felt when city areas, which had been blocked-off for years, were reopened at the beginning of this year as the
fighting in Aleppo ceased Photo: Open Doors Australia and some who had fled the A young Syrian girl in her makeshift home receives food after being displaced from her home in Aleppo. city returned home. He had lived in Aleppo since his childhood and now operates living in pain, to offer them a the Christian bookstore in listening ear. We heard their the midst of the city. During pain, frustration and problems,” the Christmas season, Bible Pastor Boutros shared. House was able to bless local “We did this without churches with children’s discrimination, it didn’t matter Bibles financed through Bible to us if they were Christians or Society donations. Muslims or of any other religion.” “We have been running “We decided to start small all the Christmas programs at and then we grew.” churches and schools and it’s Their ministry grew been a joy seeing children and quickly: from 60 supported young people receive the word families in 2012 to 4,000 of God with such joy,” Gaith families in 2017. explained in an interview with “The church became the Bible Society. the family of those who lost In Tartus, Syria’s second everything,” Pastor Boutros said. largest port city 250 kilometres “We got another perspective south-west of Aleppo, Pastor – we discovered that all people Boutros experienced similar are in need of God.” moments of joy amongst the “We as a church are not devastation caused by civil war. isolating ourselves anymore. His church community has We are taking the lead, we take Part time and full time positions grown from 25 members to 200 our place in society. The war Are you interested members since the beginning widened our vision,” Pastor of the conflict, about 90 percent Boutros concluded. in making a real High School and Primary vacancies of which are new believers. Since 2011, almost five difference in a “Destruction and death are million people fled Syria and one part of the story in Syria. more than six million people school community? On the other hand, I see the who stayed were forced to Metro and regional locations work of God. So, I can deliver abandon their homes. The good news to you: People United Nations estimated that YouthCARE is a Christian organisation are coming to Christ, they a total of 13.5 million Syrians providing school chaplaincy services. Life experience valued are baptised,” Pastor Boutros are currently in need of We are seeking people to serve within a reported in an interview with protection and humanitarian school community by providing pastoral Open Doors Australia. assistance. Syria ranks sixth on care to students, staff and families. His church has served the World Watch list of the 50 “I love being able to spend thousands of families who most dangerous countries to If this sounds like you or someone you
know, then head to our website for time with students who have stayed in Syria but lost live as a Christian. may not have someone more information: almost everything. Inspired The Bible Society and to just sit and listen to“ by the good Samaritan, Pastor Open Doors ask for continued youthcare.org.au/recruitment their concerns. Boutros and his fellow believers prayer for Syria and people like YouthCARE Chaplain provided families with food and Gaith and Pastor Boutros who medical items, and supported continue to share the good those who were in hospital. news amidst ongoing conflict. “We encouraged everybody, youthcare.org.au young and old, to come and join * Name changed by the Bible hands with us. To visit people Society to protect his identity. 12 in conversation
APRIL 2017 Jesus – The game changer
Karl Faase from Olive Tree Media hosts Jesus the Game Changer, a series exploring how the life and teaching of Jesus changed the world and why it matters. Jill Birt recently interviewed Karl.
How did Jesus the Game teaching and following the rule of Changer come about? What big Benedict (6th century monastic questions were you aiming to leader), created influential address? communities. These groups of Jesus the Game Changer people not only committed to series is responding to the shift the life of prayer and learning in western democracies where but also creating productive people are taking the attitude that communities that served their religion, Christian faith included, local areas and created wealth is having a negative influence which influenced the growth of on society. This is leading to large areas. a move to withdraw Christian For the team, the visit to faith from the public square of India was confronting and politics, education, media and informative. We visited the ‘snake social debates. What people in charmers’ village and heard about western democracies are failing a community of people who had to recognise is that the life no rights, no birth certificate and and teaching of Jesus gave the less value than many animals in foundational values that created that society. It is hard to grasp free western democratic nations. that in 2017 there are still many This series is hoping to remind people around the world that do people of the heritage that created not experience the equality that these societies. This is not just a Jesus taught and lived. history lesson but helping people to recognise that the values they Of the people you interviewed, hold most dearly are a direct who challenged your result of the life and teaching of thinking most? Jesus. There are ten episodes on Interviewing Vishal DVD or digital download. Mangalwadi was a challenge to my thinking. I guess while knowing Who is Jesus the Game in theory that people in different Changer for? countries, following various
It is aimed at the Christian worldviews, would treat people Photo: Jane Faase looking for confidence in their differently, the discussion with Karl Faase interviewing John Swinton for Jesus the Game Changer series. faith and those who may not be Mangalwadi made a deep impact. followers of Jesus yet, but have Vishal recounted many stories the attitude of an enquirer. and experiences as a Christian and scholarship. Stark is an an order in response to an the United Kingdom who have activist and academic in India academic working in a secular influenza outbreak and began helped support the making of this You travelled around the globe that made it clear the difference university and yet is a strident a small hospital for the poor in series. We have been humbled to make this series, why didn’t Christian faith makes to values defender of the influence of Potts Point, called St Vincent’s and honoured by the confidence you simply conduct Skype and behaviour. He recounted a Christian faith. In fact, of all Hospital. Today this is one of many people have in our ability to interviews? case in 1987 where an 18 year old our guests he was perhaps the largest health care providers produce excellent content for the The key goal for Olive Tree Indian bride was forced to lay the one most ardent that, as in Australia with 18,000 people church and wider community. Media was to follow the lead of its on the funeral pyre of her dead he said, “Western civilisation working in 28 locations and very successful series Towards husband and be burned to death. would not exist had not there an annual turnover of two You’ve conducted some amazing Belief. We recognise that we live This was a common occurrence been Jesus.” Many other guests billion dollars. They impact research. Are there other ways in a society that only notices many years ago in India, but due gave statements like this but thousands of people from some people can access the material? excellence in its absence. We to pressure from England through often within some thoughtful of our nation’s wealthiest to We will be releasing a coffee are committed to having high the influence of the East India caveats and careful statements. those living on the streets of table book with the content of the production values so that that Trading Company this practice However, Stark was clear and Darlinghurst. series in 2017, as well as photos there is no ‘cringe factor’ for has been largely eliminated from unapologetic. He has lectured and behind the scenes stories of those watching the series, and Indian society. at Baylor University but now How are people using the the making of the series. People people engage in the concepts This rare case created a spends almost all his time series in faith communities can also visit the website www. that the series presents rather lot of news and agitation, as writing. He has written 40 and the wider community? jesusthegamechanger.com and than be distracted by poor Mangalwadi said in Delhi they books, many of them bestsellers. Recently, we were contacted view extended interviews of 12 of production values. were able to mobilise 400 activists At the other end of the scale by a church group just south our guests. to stand against this practice, but is Sister Clare, who heads the of Oxford in the UK who had What did you and the team learn the Hindus in Rajasthan, where Sisters of Charity of Australia, 45 people attend a showing Do you have plans to do any as you conducted these unique this occurred, mobilised 200,000 the order that started St of the series, several of which more series? interviews? people who wanted widow Vincent’s Health in Australia they had little or no contact We are starting the process of While we started the research burning restored. 175 years ago. This wonderful with. This is an example of how considering the next series. Our and production knowing that lady told her story of joining we would like to see the series team and board hope that by the Jesus influenced the world, It must have been inspiring the order at 21. She oozed grace used – many churches across second half of 2017 we will have the more we read and the more to talk with some of the great and was a blessing to meet. The Australia, New Zealand and a clear direction and starting to interviews we completed the thinkers and practitioners of our Sisters of Charity began in the the UK using the series in their research the next series. Right more we came to see that we had time. Which interviews inspired 19th century in Dublin, Ireland small groups ministry. now, there is no clear direction, underestimated Jesus’ influence. you? Why? and sent five sisters to Australia but it is a point of prayer and For me personally, it was Meeting and interviewing in 1838. People like this are How was the project funded? consideration for our team. Jesus’ influence on wealth Rodney Stark was a wonderful often overlooked in books and Olive Tree Media has over and capitalism which was the experience. I had read some reflections of the influence of 20 different large donors great surprise. The monastic of his books and have always Jesus and the Christian Church. and foundations from across movement, built on Jesus’ been impressed by his writing Yet these five sisters started Australia, New Zealand and growth 13
APRIL 2017 On active service – Camp life in Northam
The following article was written in The WA Baptist News just before Reverend Harold Law-Davis left for Egypt and the Greek-Crete campaign in November 1940. He was initially gazetted as a Royal Australian Army chaplain but when he found he was not appointed to a Unit, he re-enlisted in 1940 as a private in a medical corp and rose to the rank of lance corporal. He served in Egypt, Greece and Crete and was able to leave Crete on the last boat that departed before the Germans took the remaining men as prisoners. He was allowed compassionate leave when his youngest son was seriously ill (unfortunately, he died before Harold arrived home). Harold was then discharged from the Army and returned to Narrogin as a pastor. About 18 months later he was appointed a Australian Imperial Force chaplain within Western Australia (1943-1945).
I am sitting in The Salvation transported into the atmosphere and other things of like kind to believe the Master Himself would the Church will never touch if Army hut in the Northam camp in which I am now found. And I loom large in their minds. have done the same thing were it pursues its present policy of writing these lines to you. find it pleasant indeed. If that was all that was in it, He here in the flesh today. For just waiting for them to come. Comradely sounds fill the small That may read contrary to then I would eagerly respond to there is a need amongst these These men swear like troopers, interior of this place. Men’s the expectations of many of their commiserations. The fact men, which I am more than ever they drink hard, and many voices, the shuffle of feet, the your readers. They perhaps is I am more interested in men convinced will be met only from seem to be without morals of tip-tap of the ping-pong ball, have allowed the hard [ground] than I am in comforts; therefore the inside. The outside effort any kind. But Peter, James and interspersed with a few chords on which a soldier sleeps, the I am content. Why did I come has been tried and failed. The John were fishermen and they of a familiar air being strummed all-round lack of home comforts, here? I came because I felt led to Church must make itself of no were, in all probability, ‘hard- by some budding Rubinstein the long day, the route marches, come just as certainly as a man is reputation and live amongst the livers’, too. But Jesus went to on the piano; add to this a little the camp fatigues (and there is led to go as a missionary to some rough and tumble of life and them, not to scold, but to live imagination and you will be a considerable variety of these) foreign land. I came because I prove itself equal to the task. a life the influence of which The majority of these men, transformed theirs. I may have I judge, are foreigners to the left these shores before The WA Church. They are ignorant Baptist News comes out. But I of the real facts of the faith. want to assure all my friends They are all in a fog about that I have a high purpose in denominations and this going away. These men are doctrine and that, and they, teaching me many things, the thinking that to be expert greatest of which, perhaps, is in these things constitutes that there is such a thing as Christianity, have given the comradeship amongst men of whole puzzling business the diverse views and experience go-by and live their lives in – a comradeship which their own way. I believe the challenges anything I have Church will have to do some previously known. hard thinking and cleaning up I still hear the piano, the in these critical days, else it will ping-pong balls, the shuffle find itself in the backwaters of feet, but more, I still hear when the world is to be rebuilt the voices of men! I want the after the war. Church to hear those voices too. Don’t you think we, that We may have to experience a is we Christian people, have revolution within the Church, attempted to work in the before we capture those voices reverse way to that which the for the praise of Christ. Master employed? We wait for people to come to us (and a few Lest we forget. do), but He went to the people. It bothers me. Here in WA we have thousands of men whom Photo: Harold Law-Davis family Law-Davis Harold Photo: 14 news
APRIL 2017 Buchanan’s shoebox of songs
98five Music Director Chela Williams
Entertainer, television and radio host, musician, singer, songwriter, children’s entertainer and all- round Aussie legend Colin Buchanan has released his most ambitious project to date. Literally birthed from a shoebox of songs and ideas, Calvary Road is an honest showcase of the ARIA winner’s faith.
“I am something of an independent album called unstoppable songwriter,” Remember the Lord.” Colin confessed. Colin’s approach to “Rather than start writing songwriting is incredibly when I have a project in mind, candid and vulnerable, I find myself writing songs that including title track ‘Outside could suit a wide variety the Camp’, a reflective song of projects.” about finding Jesus through “I knew that there was a the darkest moments of growing number of songs in a our lives. shoebox that could become the “In our life of ease, we Calvary Road album.” carefully and hopefully weave Since bursting on our our way around loss, illness, television screens in 1993 as darkness and death. It turns a presenter for Play School out that is the very place that subsequently releasing his first we find Jesus – literally,” Christian kids’ album three Colin said. years later, Colin is arguably “[Songs are a] way of regarded as one of Australia’s sharing something you’ve most popular Christian felt and thought with other children’s entertainers. people. And if the song does “It has been a blessing its job well, it will take the to maintain a connection listener into another place
to children since my first and time and life.” Photo: Wanaaring Road Music qualification was as a primary “All that is a very special Colin Buchanan started writing songs as a teenager and hasn’t stopped. His latest album, Calvary Road, is out now. school teacher,” Colin thing to be involved with. explained. It’s never certain, it’s full of “I learned so much working surprises. I started writing alongside the likes of John, songs as a teenager and it Monica and Noni on the set of seems like I just haven’t been Play School.” able to kick the habit.” The case for Christ “Even though my kids Christian songs pre-date my For more information, visit time on the show by up to a www.98five.com/latest-music decade it wasn’t until 1996 that I released my first kids’ Christian album.” “I’m very grateful for that sphere of my career which has exceeded all the expectations I ever had for my little
Editor: Matt Chapman EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING: Managing Editor: Andrew Sculthorpe Email: [email protected] Subeditor: Caitlin du Toit [email protected] Production: Vanessa Klomp Mail: Baptist Churches Creative: Peter Ion Western Australia Advertising: Sally Phu PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 Distribution: Sally Phu Tel: (08) 6313 6300 Editorial deadline: 5th of each month Fax: (08) 9470 1713
PUBLISHERS GENERAL DISCLAIMER All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by Photo: Triple Horse Studios way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the Based on the worldwide bestselling book by Lee Strobel, The Case of Christ is scheduled to arrive in cinemas this May. correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person 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 professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their Caitlin du Toit Inspired by the 1998 book directed by Jon Gunn, the film own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any by Lee Strobel, The Case for aims to challenge believers party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. Christ is based on the true to think about what they The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia Set to arrive in story of an award-winning believe and why, and has been by imageseven. Tel: (08) 9221 9777 Email: [email protected] Australian cinemas journalist and atheist. He recommended as a resource for early May, The Case for applies his investigative small groups. skills to invalidate his wife’s The movie will be Christ aims to challenge Christian faith, however what brought to various cinemas today’s growing culture he discovers is unexpected. throughout Australia by Triple against Christianity. Starring Mike Vogel Horse Studios and Pure Flix imageseven bcw J2972 and Erika Christensen and Entertainment. intermission 15
APRIL 2017
read A minute with ... 100 Things God Loves About You 100 Things God Loves About You is a useful book for readers to keep handy when they doubt God’s love. A bright uplifting book with literally 100 scriptures, each with a reminder of God’s love for any reader. From number one, ‘God loves your story – regardless of what has been written so far’, to hundred, ‘God Loves You – He designed each of us to be exactly who we are, we are fearfully and wonderfully made’, this book can encourage the weary soul. When the world leaves a person flat and wounded, the best solution is to return to the source of love for refreshment, to be filled again so they can love others and be the person God has called them to be. The front of the book includes a special place to include a message of love and support for the recipient. watch Photo: Australian Defence Force Hillsong – Let Hope Rise Chaplain Daniel Hynes Hillsong is pretty much a household name Fleet Chaplain North, Australian Defence Force in the Christian world, but what and who is behind it all? Hillsong – Let Hope Rise takes What is a feature of your ministry that you would like to share? the viewer backstage to meet the Hillsong One particular feature is that this ministry is more aligned to the role of a United team with a brief insight into their missionary. My wife, Mandy and I are often moving from one place to another – often lives. The movie is set in the lead up to a with little notice our circumstances can change. This makes it difficult to become worship encounter at The Forum in Los close to anyone as you would in a local Church over a period of time. In one church Angeles, as the team wait on God to write in Cairns, they put our pictures on the back of the weekly bulletin and prayed for us as His songs. With a few glimpses back to the missionaries, which was lovely. humble beginnings of Hillsong Church In Naval chaplaincy, I am continually meeting people from many different presented by Brian and Bobbie Houston, it cultures with a variety of belief structures. Unlike the role of minister where people shows how stepping out in faith and humilty enter the church to know more about God and meet like-minded people, I am not can not only impact this generation but allowed to evangelise in word, but of course always can in deed. Fortunately, when the generations that follow, and how by asked about my faith, I am able to give ‘an answer for what I believe, in a kind and ‘standing on the shoulders’ of those that loving way’ [1 Peter 3:15]. have gone before it is possible to reach even greater heights. What characteristic do you think every leader should possess? Having spent over 35 years surrounded by military leaders, and being caught up myself in that leadership training regime; I believe that a much overlooked and powerful attribute is ‘humility’.
What advice would you give to someone going into a leadership position for the first time? listen I would suggest the following four points: 1. Be clear in your communication – the vision – cast it often. 2. Know you can’t do everything – have clear boundaries. Here as in Heaven 3. Use your team – God blessed you with gifted people to build His Kingdom. Elevation Worship 4. Know your people – they have been entrusted into your care with God’s help. There is a focus from worship teams around the world on bringing heaven One last one that I was told years ago, beware of the ‘Messiah complex’ – you have to earth that people may encounter the not been called to save the world and the people you journey with. presence of God and be inspired to seek Him all the more. Here as in Heaven is no exception. With lyrics to touch the listener’s heart and mind and uplift their soul, songs like ‘O Come to the Altar’ seeks to touch a hurting and broken world and give it hope. ‘Grace like a Wave’ is a much more upbeat song but still brings the message of hope that God’s amazing grace can restore a This voucher entitles you to person with no work required by them – Jesus did it all. It contains great songs for 15% off your next purchase in personal and corporate worship. The album was also nominated for a 2016 GMA Dove store at Mount Lawley Award for Worship Album of the Year. The Advocate – April 2017
Reviews by Koorong Mount Lawley Assistant Manager Dorothy Waddingham Website: www.koorong.com Address: 434 Lord Street, Mount Lawley Phone: 08 9427 9777 16 news
APRIL 2017 Seniors keeping fit and active Photo: Baptistcare Photo: Playing a game of lawn bowls at Baptistcare Riverside Salter Point.
Linda Lee “It provides fun, gentle as an indoor heated swimming seniors, increased leisure time exercise, social interaction, pool, fitness gym, function during retirement presents an relaxation and enjoyment for areas, movie theatre, library, opportune time to discover new A new bowling green recently opened for retirement them, as well as family and friends barbecue area and other ways of being active, including living residents at Baptistcare Riverside Salter Point, in the open air. It’s an important communal spaces. participating in low-impact with a special barbecue attended by residents, family, facility for our residents.” “It’s fabulous. It’s much more exercise, pursuing interests and Residents have been making than just a bowling green, it’s trying new hobbies,” Lidia said. friends and Baptistcare staff. Everyone had the the most of the new facilities a whole precinct of leisure, it’s “Engaging in these activities opportunity to try their hand at a friendly game of and good weather to keep fit and great,” Riverside Salter Point has shown to improve health and bowls at the event. get social, with plans to hold an resident John Andrew said. assists with lowering the risk of annual team tournament. Baptistcare’s retirement disease later in life, such as heart “The bowling green is villages also offer residents a disease and dementia, while Lawn bowls is popular across families can play rounds of lawn part of the retirement village’s variety of wellbeing activities also enabling valuable social a range of age groups as a low- bowls at their leisure and enjoy community centre which that provide physical, social and community interaction.” impact, therapeutic and social being outdoors. is a meeting point for social mental stimulation, including exercise that can improve fitness “Playing lawn bowls is a fun interaction and community painting, woodwork, aqua For more information, visit and coordination. Riverside way for residents to socialise lifestyle,” Lidia explained. aerobics and social nights. www.baptistcare.com.au Salter Point’s full size green and be active,” Baptistcare The community centre has “Keeping active has many comprises four rinks where Retirement Living Manager facilities which the residents benefits for our physical, mental residents, their friends and Lidia Dawkins said. can utilise to stay active such and emotional wellbeing. For
ANNUAL BOOKSALE Saturday 8th April 2017, 9am-3pm A: 20 Hayman Road, Bentley WA 6102 T: 08 6313 6200 OVER 30,000 books and more. Sale of unsold books continues during business hours until April 28.